This October sees the return of Oktoberfest taking place at Clapham Common, from the 11th to 19th October. Beer and sausage fans, this is a must-visit! Once inside, you will be able to indulge in traditional bratwurst, spicy currywurst, along with gluten-free and vegan options . It’s not just sausage and beer on the agenda, there’ll be a live brass band providing traditional Bavarian music, funfair rides, photo booths, keg-tapping and a round of the traditional Bavarian game, hammerschlagen. Tickets start at £31.50 for the ‘Super Early Brewer’ session. If you're rolling with a group, why not go all out with a VIP table for six? It’s £37.50 per person, which includes entry, reserved seating, table service, and fast-track access. Tickets can be purchased via Skiddle  or Oktoberfest on the Common’s site at www.oktoberfestonthecommon.com Address: Clapham Common, Windmill Drive, London, SW4 9DE Photography courtesy of Oktoberfest

Join the glorious Green Rooms at Old Spitalfields Market on Sunday, 22nd September for their house plant pop-up extravaganza. Calling all plant lovers to come along to sharpen up their green fingers, in a day dedicated to flora and foliage. Whether you are an experienced planter seeking an unusual addition to an existing collection or a newbie looking to spruce up your interior, this event has got the world of interior planting covered, with expert advice on all things plants. From low-maintenance house plants to cultivating luxurious succulents, there is plenty to learn and discover. Find Green Rooms amid the buzzing Old Spitalfields Market, surrounded by indulgent food and drink sellers making it a great day out, with plenty to entertain all the family. The area is well known for its array of independent indie businesses and new designers. Green Rooms will be showcasing some of the UK’s finest traders of house plants and accessories, making it the perfect excuse to visit one of London’s most vibrant and established markets. For more information visit  https://oldspitalfieldsmarket.com Written by Claire Bloom Photography courtesy of Green Rooms

This September, Hotpod Yoga studios across London, including the new Leyton branch, are offering £5 charity yoga classes in collaboration with theMovement, a London-based charity dedicated to restoring women’s rights to exercise by providing opportunities to those facing multiple disadvantages. With all proceeds going to support their mission, nine Hotpod Yoga locations throughout the capital will host open days, inviting new customers to experience a class for just £5. Every penny will be donated to theMovement, promoting the benefits of yoga for both mental and physical health whilst supporting a cause committed to aiding those who have faced significant challenges, including mental health struggles. Hotpod Yoga, known for its immersive yoga experience, will give first-time visitors the chance to explore the benefits of their unique approach to yoga while contributing to a meaningful cause. The Leyton studio, situated in a railway archway on Midland Road in east London and recently launched by sisters and former primary school teachers Mia and Courtney, will hold its open day on Saturday, September 21st 2014. Dates and locations of open days:  Weekend 14th & 15th September  Hotpod Yoga Brixton, Dulwich, Putney and South Wimbledon  Weekend 21st & 22nd September  Hotpod Yoga Belgravia, Tottenham Hale and Leyton  Weekend 28th & 29th September  Hotpod Yoga Hackney and Notting Hill Website:  www.hotpodyoga.com Written by Jordan Crowley Images courtesy of Hot Pod Yoga

From the wilds of Belize comes an exciting rum that entices you on a journey of flavour. Named after the country's most celebrated river, Ruta Maya conjures up images of flowing through the Central American lands, experiencing the flavours of local produce and honoring ancient Maya societies. With four infused rums including a mildly citrus white (blanco), a golden ouro, an intense coffee rum and a fresh zest cocolime, Ruta Maya is a rum for explorers with penchant for discovery. A great way to experience the flavours of Ruta Maya’s exquisite rums is by combining other ingredients to concoct one of the following delicious cocktails. Belize Libre Ingredients 13⁄4oz RM Rum Blanco Cola on top Lime wedge Method Pour RM Rum Blanco into a highball glass. Squeeze the juice of a lime wedge into the glass. Fill the glass with ice. Top up with cola. Garnish with a lime wedge. Maya Martini Ingredients 13⁄4oz RM Rum Blanco 1⁄4oz Dry Vermouth Method Fill a mixing glass with ice. Pour RM Rum Blanco and dry vermouth into the mixing glass. Stir for 20 to 30 seconds. Strain the liquid into a chilled Martini glass. Use a lime zest to spray the essential oils onto the surface of the glass. Garnish with a lime zest. Ouro Ginger Beer Ingredients 13⁄4oz RM Rum Ouro Ginger Beer on top Lime wedge Method Pour RM Rum Ouro into a highball glass. Squeezethe juice of a lime wedge into the glass. Fill the glass with ice. Top up with ginger beer. Garnish with a lime wedge. Maya Negroni Ingredients 1oz RM Rum Ouro 1oz Red Vermouth 1oz Italian Bitter Method Pour all the ingredients into a rocks glass. Fill the glass with ice. Stir for 30 seconds. Use an orange zest to spray the essential oils onto the surface of the glass. Garnish with an orange wedge. Cocolime Fizz Ingredients 2oz RM Cocolime Rum 1⁄4oz Fresh lime juice 1⁄4oz Coconut water Brut Sparkling wine on top Method In a mixing glass add RM Cocolime Rum, fresh lime juice and coconut water. Fill with ice and shake well. Double strain the liquid into a flute glass. Top up with sparkling wine. Garnsih with a mint leaf floating and dry coconut rim. Cocolime Mojito Ingredients 2oz RM Cocolime Rum 1oz Fresh lime juice 6-8 Mint leaves Soda water Method In a highball glass, muddle the fresh mint gently to release the flavour. Add RM Cocolime Rum and fresh lime juice to the glass. Fill the glass with crashed ice and mix it well. Top up with soda water and stir gently to combine. Garnish with mint spring, lime wedge and dry coconut. Cocolime & Soda Ingredients 13⁄4oz RM Cocolime Rum Soda water on top Lime wedge Coconut rim Method Pour RM Cocolime Rum into a highball glass. Fill the glass with ice. Top up with soda water. Squeeze the juice of a lime wedge into the glass. Garnish with a lime wedge and dry coconut rim. Maya Espresso Martini Ingredients 11⁄2oz RM Coffee Rum 11⁄2oz Cointreau Liqueur 1 Hot espresso Cocoa Bitters Pinch of sea salt Method Pour all the ingredients into a shaker. Fill the shaker with ice. Hard shake for 30 seconds. Pour and strain into a Martini glass. Garnsih with 3 coffee beans. Coffee Old Fashioned Ingredients 13⁄4oz RM Coffee Rum 2 Dashes Cocoa Bitters Soda water splash Method Pour RM Coffee Rum and cocoa bitters into a rocks glass. Fill the glass with ice and stir for 30 seconds. Refill the glass with ice to the top. Add a splash of soda water and stir. Use an orange zest to spray the essential oils onto the surface of the glass. Garnish with an orange wedge. For more information visit https://rutamayarum.com/

Fans of the Danish-Japanese fusion restaurant will be forming an orderly queue on 28th September as Stick and Sushi opens its 29th restaurant on Upper Street, N1. This is their first restaurant north of the river with a huge 50% off food as they soft launch. If you haven't tried their food before you are in for a treat.  Their signature dish is the Black Cod house roll which is miso-marinated black cod with vegetable chips & pickled red onion, totally mouth-watering alongside the classic sushi, sticks, tartare and sashimi.  If your style is more meat-based, try the Ibérico Secreto – miso-cured black Iberian pig with lemon; charred chicken wings; or Wagyu Yaki - Japanese Wagyu from Kyushu. Vegan and Vegetarian sticks are also available. The drinks menu is also a work of art - fusing Japanese and Nordic influences from cocktails like  Shiso Ha, with tequila, shiso leaves, and elderflower, or Purple Rain, featuring Japanese gin, violet liqueur, and yuzu tonic. There is also a curated list of wines, spirits, Japanese teas, and an extensive sake menu to tempt your tastebuds. For more information visit  https://sticksnsushi.com/en Written by Claire Selby  Photography by Sticks and Sushi

TH@51 have unveiled their latest Courtyard Beverage Menu, with cocktails creatively inspired by the hotel’s Shakespearean roots. Having already received a fantastic response since they launched earlier this month, the tipples can either be enjoyed outdoors in the scenic courtyard, or inside the restaurant’s equally beautiful conservatory. The collection of four cocktails each reflect a famous piece from Shakespeare, with a fascinating aesthetic matching their name. Swan of Avon with hints of bubble gum and exquisitely presented in a spectacular swan-shaped glass, Midnight Summer Dream with Blue curacao which is exceptionally served in a shell-shaped glass, Ophelia’s Muse which has hints of Cocchi Americano, and The Bard’s Elixir which has a gin and citrus base. Priced at £15 each, every new cocktail on the menu has been created from the Shakespeare-inspired Sylvan-scene Frieze, where you can see different scenes from Shakespeare’s ‘Sylvian Plays’ such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Much Ado. When dining in the hidden courtyard, guests are surrounded by one of the world’s longest Shakespearean-inspired frieze. This is depicted across the walls of Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences and St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel. The entire energy of the courtyard encompasses the secret Shakespearean stories which are waiting to be re-imagined by guests. Address:  TH@51 at Taj 51, 51 Buckingham Gate, London SW1E 6AF Website address: https://www.th51.co.uk/en Written by Jordan Crowley Photo courtesy of TH@51

In support of the charity Pets as Therapy, the highly anticipated Chelsea Dog Day is returning to the area on Saturday, 5th October 2024, with Chelsea being magically transformed into a dog friendly haven.   Duke of York Square will house the infamous ‘Four Legged Foodies’, a dog-themed market with 20 dog-themed stalls selling everything from delicious canine treats and accessories, including ‘Hiro + Wolf’ known for their stylish accessories, ‘Caboodle’ providing delicious treats, ‘Hilary’s Hounds’ with fashionable clothing and much more.   Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at Duke of York Square, including behaviourist talks by Chelsea Canines offering expert dog-handling and training tips. Napo Dog Insurance will have a scent-work trike on site, where dogs and their owners can receive free scent work games. Don't forget to snap a photo at the giant sausage dog bench for a memorable keepsake. In other parts of the neighbourhood, over 65 shops, hotels, and restaurants will be rolling out the welcome mat for your furry friends. Look forward to live entertainment, treats, pawtrait artists, and more from names like Prada, PAIGE, Colbert, The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, and The Fashion School, ensuring a full day of dog-friendly fun. For a complete list of activities, download the map from the King’s Road website. Chelsea Dog Day is organized by Cadogan, with the support of local dog lovers May Wong Gaynor Jackson. Date: Saturday 5th October 2024 For more information visit www.kingsroad.co.uk Written by Jordan Crowley Photography courtesy of Chelsea Dog Day

October 11th sees the opening of a new hotspot near Borough market where you can spend an evening sipping cocktails, whilst immersed within a post-war vintage post office. Inception group, the people behind 15 other immersive bars in London introduces its latest venture: Cahoots: Postal Office under the arches at Borough Yards. Following the success of their first Cahoots venue, their newest venture promises even more immersive storytelling and playful anachronisms. As you step through the unassuming post office shopfront, you'll be greeted by a cheeky “Postie” keeping a wary eye out for suspicious coppers. The adventure begins at the overflowing mail counter and swiftly moves into the hidden world of a bustling, two-floor sorting area—a clandestine hub where The Cahoots Scoundrels have repurposed the depot for their latest raucous operation. With a capacity of 80 seated guests or 120 standing, the space is designed to host everything from intimate gatherings to lively private events. The piece de resistance is a cutting-edge pneumatic tube system, which will deliver cocktails right to your table in an exhilarating display of 1940s mail technology gone rogue. Sip on concoctions like "This Way Up" with Patron Silver tequila, "Signed, Sealed, delivered" with Bombay Sapphire gin, and "Par Avion" featuring Grey Goose L' Original vodka . The interactive elements don’t stop there, the ‘ Postal Office’ will have repurposed mail sack chairs, seating within a converted mail train car with hidden mechanical controls. The venue is alive with secret buttons that manipulate the lighting and soundscape, while suspicious rattling parcels, carrier pigeons, and a treasure trove of undelivered letters in The Dead Letter Depot add layers of intrigue. For those who love a good bit of eavesdropping and gossip, the Tea Corner on the mezzanine offers a quirky escape where old telephone switchboards allow guests to listen in on scandalous 1946 gossip. Cahoots: Postal Office will sure to be London’s newest must-visit bar so mark your calendars for an unforgettable fun experience where you’ll be transported back in time. For reservations, visit https://www.cahoots.co.uk/cahoots-postal-office/ Address: 20 Stoney Street, London, SE1 9AD

 Written by Lorna Byrne Photography courtesy of Cahoots: Postal Office

For me, cheese is the ultimate comfort food. From gooey, stretchy melted cheese to crumbly wedges of blue cheese packed with flavour, it never fails to satisfy. Over the past few months, I’ve been on a mission to discover 10 of the cheesiest, most indulgent dishes London has to offer, sharing my findings on my food Instagram account, @comedinewithmegs Whether you’re a fan of rich mac and cheese, crispy cheese toasties, or simply a slice of bold blue cheese, London’s food scene has something for every cheese lover. Let’s dive into my top ten spots! Pick and Cheese – Seven Dials Market At the heart of Seven Dials Market lies the world’s first cheese conveyor belt restaurant. Here, you can sample a revolving selection of artisanal cheeses, paired with accompaniments like chutneys, crackers, pickles, and some interesting sweet pairings like fudge, brownies, and flapjack! A must-try plate is a doughnut filled with apricot chutney and whipped goat's cheese – a surprisingly delightful mix of sweet and savoury. There are over 25 different plates to choose from, priced between £4 and £7. On Wednesdays, they offer a deal for £28 per person for bottomless plates of cheese – an irresistible option for those looking to fully indulge. I loved this unique dining experience – the concept is both indulgent and fun – and the variety of dishes makes it a true cheese lover's paradise 2. Two Drops – Battersea For fans of cheese toasties, Two Drops in Battersea is a cosy pub on the Battersea waterfront that boasts a fantastic toastie menu. The signature toastie of marmite and shallots had a great umami flavour which complemented the cheese perfectly. I also really enjoyed the salt beef toastie with pickled gherkins, horseradish and (of course) cheese! The pub’s relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, combined with its stunning view of Battersea Power Station, makes it easy to linger over a pint or two while savouring the simplicity of a well-made, cheese-packed toastie. 3. Chiswick Cheese Market – Chiswick Chiswick Cheese Market is London’s only dedicated cheese market, held on the third Sunday of every month. With over 200 different types of cheese to choose from, I was blown away by the variety on offer and discovered a new favourite – a blue goat’s cheese, something which I’d never seen before. But the market isn’t just about cheese. There are also hot food stalls (all selling cheesy dishes of course), and you’ll also find vendors selling chutneys, olives, crackers, and other accompaniments that perfectly complement your cheese selections. Whether you’re looking to discover a new favourite or pick up an old classic, this market is a playground for cheese lovers. 4. The Black Pig – Borough Market Tucked inside London’s bustling Borough Market is The Black Pig, a sandwich shop known for its packed-to-the-brim ciabattas. I went for their signature honey truffle and pork sandwich which was topped with a mountain of freshly grated parmesan. The saltiness of the parmesan cut through the rich, tender pork and the drizzle of honey added sweetness. A truly indulgent, cheesy sandwich! 5. The Mac Factory – Locations Across London For those who love mac and cheese, The Mac Factory is a street food spot that’s well worth a visit. Opt for their classic mac and cheese with a gorgeously decadent cheesy sauce, or elevate it further with optional toppings like crispy bacon or jalapeños for an added kick. Whether you’re in need of comfort food or just want to indulge your love for pasta, this spot will have you coming back for more. 6. Asador – Camden Market For the ultimate cheesy fries, look no further than Asador in Camden Market. Their signature dish is a decadent pile of crispy fries topped with Argentinian steak, caramelised onions, and melted cheese (duh!). The rich, gooey cheese goes really well with the juicy steak. 7. La Maritxu – Basque Cheesecake To finish on a sweet note, La Maritxu offers an incredible Basque cheesecake. This creamy, crustless rich cheesecake is perfectly balanced by the slight bitterness of the burnt edges, making for a dessert that is both simple and indulgent. This cheesecake is popular for good reason, and a very fitting way to conclude a cheesy adventure around London. London’s cheese scene is as diverse as it is delicious, offering everything from gourmet creations to street food classics. Whether you’re a devoted cheese lover or simply looking to indulge in a decadent treat, I hope the ten spots I’ve shared will satisfy your next cheesy craving! 8. Funky Chips – Camden Market For a fun, over-the-top cheesy experience, try Funky Chips, where the portions are colossal and the cheese is plentiful. I opted for the garlic fries with nacho cheese, which come in a whopping 1kg serving! As the staff add the cheese, they even shout "cheesy cheesy" as they’re smothering your fries with the gooey layer of nacho cheese! Despite being drenched in cheese sauce, the fries were lovely and crispy and fluffy in the middle. This is the kind of indulgent street food that’s perfect for sharing with friends (or tackling on your own if you’re feeling extra hungry!). 9. Grape and Fig – Takeaway Cheese Grazing Boxes Sometimes, the best way to enjoy cheese is in its purest form. Grape and Fig offers takeaway grazing boxes which you can fill with your choice of cheese, charcuterie, sourdough crackers, and antipasti. Perfect for a picnic or a cosy night in, these boxes allow you to try a range of artisan cheeses, from creamy soft varieties to mature, crumbly blues. 10. Cheese Soufflé at Sam’s Waterside – Brentford I found an unexpected cheesy delight at Sam’s Waterside in Brentford. This neighbourhood gem serves locally sourced food, and when I saw they had a cheese soufflé, I knew I had to try it. Light, airy, and extremely cheesy, this classic French dish was executed to perfection. I loved the contrast between the golden crust and the rich, velvety interior. An honourable mention goes to the parmesan churros, one of the restaurant’s bar bites — they were also fabulous! Be sure to follow along on my food Instagram account, @comedinewithmegs , for more cheesy finds and delicious recommendations across London. Written by Megan d'Ardenne Two Drops photo by Safia Shakarchi

Love your pet? Then join Amazon for a celebration of pet love with Pet Fest. This free event, hosted by Amazon is set to be a great day out for all the family. During this special weekend, customers and their dogs will be able to take part in a range of activities celebrating pet ownership. Activities include an agility park, splash pool, dog yoga and products from the best in pet accessory brands, including Amazon Devices’ (Ring) indoor cameras which allow pet owners to keep an eye on their pet throughout the day and talk to them with the Two-Way-Talk feature. Bring your dog along to enjoy the fun and discover the exciting range of pet products available from Amazon Private Brands – everything from pet food and water bowls to toys and beds. Activities include: James Wellbeloved Sensory Trail:  an engaging scent-based track dedicated to refocus dogs with sniff work, where they will discover surprising treats along the way, stimulating their natural foraging instincts. YuMOVE Agility Park:  dogs of all ages are invited to run, jump and play on this challenging agility course, designed to promote agility and an active life. Barking Heads Wellness Retreat:  doggie wellness brought to you in a fresh space, designed to naturally support your pooches’ health & well-being, with guest speaker Adem Fehm Furminator Splash Pool:  a cool oasis for your furry friends to splash, play, and refresh between adventures. Paws and Play Camp:  an educational, heart-warming experience that kids will cherish, where they can become their spirit animal with our facial paints or learn about their favourite pets through hands-on games. Event details: September 14th and 15th at Haggerston Park, London, E2 8NH You can register for a free ticket here - https://www.amazon.co.uk/petfest Written by Claire Bloom Photo courtesy of Pet Festival

DF Tacos is dedicated to curating bold and innovative flavours, offering tacos like no other. This week, DF Tacos unveils a vibrant new selection of fully-loaded, flavour-packed tacos. The new flavours include: Hot Honey Chicken  - which packs in crispy buttermilk chicken alongside crunchy chip sticks, zesty slaw and pink pickled onions - finished with a sweet but spicy dash of Dr. Sting’s  small-batch hot honey. Tikka Taco  - where Mexican and Asian ingredients, including grilled Tikka chicken, Masala sauce, creamy MexRaita, buttery rice and Thai basil, come together for a full flavour, cross-continental, taste sensation.  Tamari Pork Belly - brings together slow-cooked, free range pork belly which is then topped with tamari and chipotle agave and served with diced onion and sesame slaw. The Fish ‘N Chips - brings a British classic to the fold, with crispy battered sustainable pollock, mini fries, tartare sauce, and chipotle mayo. In celebration of these new flavours, DF Tacos is offering 50% off all tacos until September 15th 2024. Grab a taco, and while you're there opt for a freshly-shaken margarita /  house cocktail. Their frozen margaritas are only £5, all day every day, what an absolute treat! Locations: Shoreditch, Tottenham Court Road and Market Halls in Victoria, Oxford Street, and Canary Wharf. Website: https://www.dftacos.co.uk/ Photo courtesy of DF Tacos

The Andaz London Liverpool Street Hotel, a beacon of luxury and style, is home to Rake’s Café Bar, a sophisticated venue that transitions effortlessly from a café by day to a bar by night. The entrance is easily recognizable and conveniently located just outside Liverpool Street Station. Rake’s Café Bar unfolds across three distinct and inviting spaces. The Front Room, a garden-influenced space. The Parlour, a sophisticated yet casual lounge area; and The Orgy Room, Rake’s private dining room, perfect for those intimate celebrations. I chose to dine in The Front Room, where the ambiance is both warm and enchanting, enhanced by a pergola draped in lush greenery. The Sunday menu boasts a selection of healthy and comforting dishes, having arrived hungry I was happy to try out a salad and the tempting Crispy buttermilk chicken burger. The Rake’s vibrant rainbow salad came with a harmonious blend of pomegranate, avocado, corn, beetroot, parsley, and chicken, all brought together by a lively lemon vinaigrette. This fresh and colorful dish is the perfect choice for a summer afternoon. Equally pleasing was the crispy buttermilk chicken burger, tender chicken encased in a perfectly crispy coating, nestled in a soft brioche bun. The chipotle mayonnaise added a flavorful punch, it was a great choice! The dessert menu consists of three indulgent choices, the rosé & pistachio basque cheesecake caught my attention. This innovative take on the classic dessert was rich and creamy, complemented by small chunks of pistachio, the rosé and pistachio really shone through making this the ideal dessert to end my meal. This is a great place to dine during the day and evening and I hear this place really comes to life in the late evening when the drinks are flowing. No doubt I'll be back. A fan of bottomless brunch? Visit Rake’s on a Saturday and indulge in a bottomless brunch starting at £55, which includes three courses and bottomless cocktails/prosecco, a live DJ and weekly entertainment themes. Address: Rake’s Café Bar, Andaz London Liverpool Street, 40 Liverpool St, London, EC2M 7QN Website: https://www.hyattrestaurants.com/en/dining/uk/london/rake-s- Words and Photography by Nyla Sammons