After a 250-year absence, the ‘Dictionary Desk’ of celebrated 18th century writer Samuel Johnson makes a historic return to his former abode, Dr Johnson’s House in the City of London.
Welcome to 2025! The City of London is bursting with vibrant experiences to kick off the new year in style. From historic explorations to indulgent treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this January.
Dive into Roman history, learn a new skill, or unwind in London's second largest conservatory. Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or culture seeker, here’s our guide to some of the best activities in the City of London this month.
1. Explore the 2,000-year-old remains of Roman Londinium
Discover the remnants of Roman London, scattered throughout the City like pieces of a fascinating historical puzzle. Visit the Roman Wall, the Amphitheatre, and other well preserved sites to uncover how the Romans lived 2,000 years ago. Walk through history as you stroll the streets or delve into indoor exhibitions for a closer look at this era.
© The City Wall at Vine Street
2. Catch a show at the Barbican Theatre or see behind the scenes
Brighten your winter with the Royal Shakespeare Company’s enchanting production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Barbican Theatre running until 18 January. Starring Mathew Baynton (Ghosts, Horrible Histories), this magical comedy blends mischief and wonder with Shakespeare’s timeless charm.
Or, for a unique perspective, embark on a backstage tour. Explore the Barbican’s hidden corners, from the fly tower to the Green Room, and discover how theatrical magic comes to life. Tickets for the Backstage Tour are £15 plus booking fee.
Photo Credit: Lee Mawdsley
3. Relax and recharge at a spa day
After the holiday hustle, indulge in a rejuvenating spa day. Wrap yourself in a cozy robe, choose from an array of soothing treatments, and enjoy a tranquil escape right in the heart of the City. It’s the perfect way to reset for the year ahead. Read our guide to five of the best spas in the City of London.
4. Uncover the City’s fascinating history
Discover the City’s 2,000-year history on foot. Wander through medieval alleys, marvel at Roman ruins, and explore historic churches, pubs, and green spaces. For a self-guided adventure, pick up a free City Visitor Trail map from the City Information Centre or have a look at our Great Fire of London self-guided walk or Literary Walking Trail.
Prefer a guide? Join a daily walking tour led by City of London experts to hear the fascinating stories of the City.
© London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE
5. Pick up a new hobby
Looking for a fun, active challenge? Head to City Bouldering Aldgate. With over 100 climbs, a fully equipped gym, and a welcoming community, it’s the perfect spot to try your hand at bouldering and meet fellow climbing enthusiasts.
6. Put on your dancing shoes
Dance into the rhythm of January at Bishopsgate Institute, offering a diverse selection of dance courses and social dance events. From Swing Den to Queer Tango classes, there is something to suit every style and preference.
7. Explore a tropical oasis at the Barbican Conservatory
Escape the winter chill in London’s second-largest conservatory. This lush haven, filled with tropical plants and exotic flowers, is free to visit and perfect for a serene day out.
Note: The Conservatory reopens in January 2025 after a brief winter closure.
Photo Credit: Max Colson
8. Try one of the many historic pubs in the City
The City is home to some fascinating pubs, including the Old Bell Tavern, one of the City’s oldest pubs. It was originally built for Sir Christopher Wren over 300 years ago to house his workmen as they were re-building St Bride's Church in 17th century after the Great Fire of London.
The Old Bell Tavern is located at 95 Fleet Street, a short stroll from Farringdon Street, City Thameslink, Valley Gardens Harrogate and Ludgate Hill.
Fun fact: Fleet Street is also home to the infamous fictional barber Sweeney Todd, who first appeared in a 19th-century penny dreadful.
9. Celebrate National Cheese Lovers Day (20 January)
20 January marks National Cheese Lovers Day, and there’s no better way to celebrate than in the City of London, where cheese has been adored for centuries. Dive into the cheesy legacy of Samuel Pepys, the famed diarist who famously buried a wheel of Parmesan cheese to protect it from the Great Fire of London.
Seething Lane Garden: Visit this beautiful garden and find a statue of Pepys alongside paving stones engraved with references to his life, including his cherished cheese and wine.
Cheese at Leadenhall: For a modern indulgence, stop by this delightful Cheesemonger in Leadenhall Market. Sample a variety of fine cheeses, paired with exquisite wines or ports, in a cosy and elegant setting. Feeling adventurous? Join their Cheese & Wine Tasting events held Tuesday through Friday. Tastings last 1 to 2 hours, and you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for artisan cheeses.
Cheese at Leadenhall
10. Makes plans to entertain your littles ones
Keep the whole family entertained with a mix of thrilling activities, cultural delights, and creative workshops:
F1 Arcade: Feel the adrenaline of the Formula 1 track at this immersive racing experience. Located in One New Change, the F1 Arcade offers simulators designed for drivers aged 7 and up, with multiple skill levels to suit everyone from beginners to pros. When you’re ready to refuel, the menu has something for everyone, from burgers to family-style sharing plates.
Barbican Family Film Club: Enjoy Saturday mornings filled with family-friendly films. This month they will be showing:
- The Flight of Dragons (U) alongside a special draw-along workshop with illustrator Rikin Parekh (Ages 6+). Takes place on 18 January.
- Kensuke’s Kingdom (PG), a heartfelt animated adventure based on Michael Morpurgo’s beloved novel. Takes place on 25 January.
Monster Art Club: Get creative at the Barbican Library every Saturday from 2 to 3.30pm. This free event provides all the materials for drawing, colouring, and imaginative crafting - perfect for budding artists of all ages.
Sculpture in the City Family Trail: Embark on a free sculpture hunt across the City! With 17 sculptures waiting to be discovered, this vibrant trail combines art and adventure. Pick up a map at the City Information Centre or download a digital version online.
Rhyme Time at Artizan Library: Every Thursday from 10 to 10.30am, bring your little ones (under 5s) to a free lively session filled with action songs, musical instruments, and puppets.
Second Saturday at Guildhall Art Gallery (11 January): On the second Saturday of every month, Guildhall Art Gallery hosts fantastically fun free family days. This month they will be hosting a fun range of activities to celebrate the New Year under the theme of the Great Fire of London, responding to paintings in their collection. Activities include making collages and colouring maps, storytelling sessions and a Great Fire of London gallery tour.
11. Declutter and Donate at the ‘Give and Take’ Day (11 January)
Start the year sustainably by clearing out your unused items and finding something new at the City’s Give and Take Day. Donate clothes, shoes, toys, books, kitchenware, and small electrical items.
The City of London will also be hosting a series of Tech Takeback events, where you can bring your old tech (phones, tablets, laptops, and PCs) for secure data erasure and recycling. Their team will ensure devices are reused, salvaged, or responsibly recycled, reducing e-waste and keeping tech in circulation longer.
This event is a fantastic way to declutter, reduce waste, and support your community.
12. Explore these free exhibitions before they go and keep an eye out for new ones arriving
January offers an array of exhibitions to explore art, culture, and history:
Anne Desmet: Kaleidoscope/London (Until 12 January at Guildhall Art Gallery): Immerse yourself in over 150 works spanning three decades of Anne Desmet’s career. From intricate wood engravings to mixed-media collages, this exhibition highlights London’s evolving cityscape, blending past and present in stunning detail. Don’t miss the rare tools and engraved wood blocks on display, offering a glimpse into her creative process.
I’m Not Okay: An Emo Retrospective (Until 15 January at Barbican Music Library): Relive the mid-2000s emo scene with this nostalgic exhibition. Featuring personal photos, rare band memorabilia, and digital artefacts unearthed from old hard drives, this retrospective celebrates the movement sparked by bands like My Chemical Romance and Fall Out Boy.
The Observatory (6 to 31 January at Broadworks): The Observatory is a free immersive digital art house created by Creative Giants Art, blending art, technology, and storytelling to explore the human experience and bring light and joy to the winter months. It offers a calming environment to pause, reflect, and reconnect, promoting wellness and emotional exploration through an innovative blend of art and technology. While the experience is free, it supports the suicide prevention charity Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) and donations are welcome.
Citra Sasmita: Into Eternal Land (30 January to 20 April at The Curve, Barbican): Indonesian artist Citra Sasmita brings ancestral memory and mythology to life in her first solo UK exhibition. Combining painting, embroidery, and installation, this immersive experience transforms The Curve into a sensory journey that delves into themes of ritual, migration, and cultural identity. Don’t miss the unique scents and sounds that enhance this evocative exhibit.
Installation view of Citra Sasmita, Ode to the Sun, Yeo Workshop, Singapore, 2020 © Citra Sasmita
13. Experience a mesmerising programme celebrating the richness of British music (17 January)
Experience an evening of wonderful works as the Guildhall String Ensemble explore the beauty and mystery of the ocean in Thomas Adès’ contemporary masterpiece 'Shanty – Over the Sea', indulge in the lush harmonies of Vaughan Williams’ beloved 'Tallis Fantasia', and experience the powerful, exhilarating 'Sonata for String Orchestra' by William Walton. This event is free.
Guildhall School alumna Candida Thompson, Artistic Director of Amsterdam Sinfonietta.
14. Try some of the best Veganuary Menus spotted this month at The Royal Exchange
Trying out Veganuary? Then head to The Royal Exchange’s exceptional selection of restaurants with menus that make the most of plant-based ingredients.
The Libertine: This award-winning bar and restaurant delivers with options like the Beetroot Tartare, topped with walnut dressing and sour apple, or their comforting Vegan Pesto Gnocchi paired with steamed asparagus and polenta.
Jang: For a fine-dining experience, Chef Dana’s Hwayangjeok Skewer is a must-try - featuring celeriac, carrots, shiitake mushrooms, and miso-sesame dressing. Prefer something lighter? The Jang Salad offers crisp winter vegetables, pine nut dressing, and a delicate flower rice blanket.
Engel: Channelling 1920s Berlin vibes, Engel’s vegan twist on a classic hot dog, “Der Japanische”, comes loaded with teriyaki Savoy cabbage, Kewpie mayo, spring onion, and black sesame seeds.
Jang at The Royal Exchange.
