London’s Latest: Festive Fun, City Changes & Hidden Gems

The “Best Of Londonist: 13-19 October 2025” offers a comprehensive weekly roundup of London’s most intriguing news and features, providing a diverse snapshot of the city’s upcoming events, cultural highlights, and urban developments. The articles serve as a guide for both residents and visitors, detailing opportunities for engagement, entertainment, and exploration.

A significant focus is placed on the festive season and major events. London’s Christmas lights, including Oxford Street’s 2025 display, are set to begin switching on soon, signaling the start of the holiday period. The iconic Lord Mayor’s Show 2025 is highlighted, noting a significant change this year (dubbed the ‘Lady Mayor’s Show’), alongside details for the London To Brighton Veteran Car Run 2025, outlining its timing, route, and featured vehicles. For a unique festive experience, horse-drawn carriage rides through Richmond Park are also promoted for Christmas. Beyond the holidays, the roundup also previews general “Things To Do In London” for the following week, including the London Literature Festival and various live music events.

Culturally, the selection delves into London’s rich history and quirky present. Readers can explore “The 21 Ghosts Of The Tower Of London, Ranked” for a spooky countdown or discover a stunning, speakeasy-like library in Piccadilly accessible by ringing a doorbell. Historical insights are offered through “1746 in Colour: Westminster and Lambeth,” which involves coloring a map of Georgian London, and an examination of “How London Was Built On Coal,” discussing the polluting fuel’s historical upsides. Contemporary curiosities include “Just Some Pictures Of London Vents Looking Spectacular” and an observation of “In London, Even The Ornamental Cherubs Are Looking At Their Phones” at Two Temple Place. Literary interests are catered to with an article on “How I Wrote The Moquette Mystery, A Detective Caper Set In 1930s London,” while a local cinema offers a unique opportunity to play home movies.

Urban development features prominently with news of Croydon’s ’50p Building’ receiving approval for a major residential refit, and the exciting announcement of a huge new five-storey food and drink hall coming to Leicester Square, promising enhanced culinary offerings. For digital engagement, “Tubedoku,” an online game combining Sudoku with Tube stations, provides a fun, interactive way to connect with London’s transport network. This diverse collection underscores London’s dynamic blend of tradition, innovation, and community spirit.

(Source: https://londonist.com/london/best-of-london/best-of-londonist-13-19-october-2025)