Welcome to “Things to Do in London”! It’s Friday, July 25, 2025, and you’re tuned in just as the city is buzzing with summer energy and endless possibilities. Today, Londoners and visitors alike are enjoying pleasant, mild weather—the perfect backdrop for exploring the city. Air quality is good across central London, and the whole city feels eager and alive as festival season hits its stride, with art, music, and unique experiences on every corner.

Let’s dive into today’s top happenings. First up, culture lovers can dig into history at the National Army Museum’s free lunchtime talk on The Battle of Atbara—an essential, yet often-overlooked chapter in Sudanese and British military history, running from noon to 1pm in Chelsea[1]. If historic architecture is more your scene, Lambeth Palace is opening its storied doors for guided tours of its grand halls, medieval rooms, and the atmospheric Crypt Chapel between 12 and 4pm—an opportunity that only pops up a few times a year[1].

Over at the Chelsea Physic Garden, artist Anna Chapman Parker and landscape architect Marian Boswall will host a conversation at 6pm exploring how wild plants and weeds can foster both wellbeing and environmental awareness—an inspiring session for nature lovers[1]. Young explorers and science fans should head to the Natural History Museum for Space Night at the Museum, an after-hours adventure launching at 6:45pm with space-age activities for all ages[1]. For those who adore a bit of drama, don’t miss your last chance to catch “Noughts & Crosses” at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre—Malorie Blackman’s gripping tale of love and segregation, performed outdoors in one of the city’s lushest parks[10].

But the city’s pulse isn’t just about events. Today marks the soft opening of several new foodie haunts in East London. Look out for the Maltby Street Market’s latest pop-ups serving globally inspired street food in Bermondsey’s vibrant arches[5]. On the transit front, TfL reports smooth service across the tube network, though a heads up—weekend engineering works are planned on the Central Line, with replacement buses ready to keep things moving.

For a dose of pure London experience, don’t skip these must-dos. Wander the tranquil paths of Holland Park or the leafy expanse of Hampstead Heath for a breather from city bustle[5]. Soak up one-of-a-kind art at the Courtauld Gallery, or hunt for hidden gems in Neals Yard’s vibrant courtyard or Southwark Cathedral’s historic nooks[5][8]. Fancy something truly unique? Book a nighttime ride on the vintage T15 bus route for a twinkling tour of the city’s landmarks[2].

Here’s a local tip: Did you know London’s oldest botanic garden, the Chelsea Physic Garden, is home to over 4,500 medicinal plants, some of which have shaped world history? It’s not only a serene escape, but also a living museum to centuries of scientific curiosity[5].

Before we sign off—don’t miss a sneak peek at tomorrow’s lineup! Saturday promises the world’s largest chicken Wing Fest in Stratford, the Bitesize Short Film Festival on the riverside, and an enormous street party in Trafalgar Square to celebrate the National Gallery’s 200th birthday[7][10]. Tune in tomorrow morning to get the full lowdown on London’s unmissable weekend adventures!