The Best Things to Do in London in February

Much is made of London at Christmas, with winter markets and mulled wine casting a spell over the city. However, we at Plum Guide prefer it when the festive bustle has died down and the streets are quieter. London in February has its own unique charms, and the best way to see them is to set out from your Plum home with a good scarf, a sturdy umbrella, and a sense of adventure.

If you’re visiting London in February, you won’t want to spend too much time wandering the streets -- seek shelter in one of the city’s museums or galleries (or, if you’re staying for a long weekend in London, several of them). We recommend you skip the obvious choices and the tourist crowds at the Tate Modern or the British Museum and go in search of rather more eclectic offerings. For fans of the macabre and marvellous, Viktor Wynd’s Cabinet of Curiosities is a tiny tearoom and museum which exhibits wonders such as a gold-plated hippopotamus skull which once belonged to Pablo Escobar (yes, really) and can be taken in in around an hour. Kids of all ages will love exploring the Horniman Museum and Gardens, especially if you pay a visit to their famously overstuffed walrus. The Museum of Brands is a chic display of the art of packaging (and a great alternative to the V&A on a busy day).

Lastly, we’d be remiss not to mention Dennis Severs’ House. It may be a cliche, but walking around this perfect recreation of a silk-weaver’s home throughout the centuries really does feel like stepping back in time. If you can, visit during their regular evening hours when dancing candlelight and crackling fires laugh in the face of the drafty winds of London in February.

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London is a city made all the richer by the immigrants who have come to call it home, and nowhere is the capital’s multiculturalism more obvious than in the variety of food on offer here. For a rich curry to banish the winter blues that so often plague London in February, avoid the rather touristy establishments on Brick Lane and head to Dishoom. It’s a stalwart for a reason, and whatever you order, make sure you have the black lentil dal as a side. Trust us, you won’t regret it. Alternatively, indulge in the classic dish of fish and chips - lightly battered fried fish was introduced by Jewish chefs to the city as early as the 16th century, and you can find some excellent examples at old-school chip shops like Poppies, or more innovative twists on this classic at newer places like Hook. Don’t forget the salt and vinegar!

England is, of course, known for its thriving pub culture, and there’s no shortage of cosy nooks in the capital. But if you’re visiting London in February, you’ll probably want something more weather-appropriate than a cold pint of beer. Enter the not-so-humble cafe. Bar Italia is Soho’s longest-serving coffee shop, slinging lattes and espresso to the caffeine-deprived denizens of the city since 1949; sip on a hot drink while people-watching from the comfort of the inside seating. If you’re brave enough to face the weather with a takeaway option, we can’t speak highly enough of the Algerian Coffee Store, established in 1887. This little red storefront draws the eye with bags of beans piled high and shining copper coffee-pots. Though it primarily sells quality coffee beans from around the world, you can also get a cup of their perfectly-brewed house blend to take away. (It’s also a five minute walk from the characterful Plum home Broadwick Soul, making it the perfect spot for morning coffee.)

Evening falls quickly in London in February -- chase away the dark under the bright lights of the theatre. We recommend exploring beyond the West End, unless there’s a particular production you’re dying to see, as the best of the city’s theatre is found elsewhere. There are numerous smaller, independent theatres scattered around the capital. The Bush Theatre is a particularly interesting venue, showcasing award-winning playwrights as well as newcomers, and the Almeida Theatre in Islington has a reputation for championing the very best of British talent.

If you'll be in town at the turn of the year, check out our guide to London in January.

Greenery is hard to come by in London in February; the city’s parks are dismal rather than delightful, with bare trees and not even a hint of a floral display. However, there are pockets of nature which survive the winter, if you know where to seek them out. (Some of them, like this leafy flat, can even be found on Plum Guide.) The greenhouses of Kew Gardens burst with life year round, exotic plants flourishing under heat lamps -- it’s even warm enough to take your coat off as you wander around the cacti and succulents. But the real highlight of Kew in February is the Orchid Festival; every year, these delicate blooms bring life and colour to the wintery grey, promising us that new growth is always just around the corner. Staying a little longer? There's lots to do in London in March.

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