So, you need to show someone a good time this weekend but your wallet's so empty it echoes. The great thing about heading to London is that you can not only dazzle people with the sheer weight of stone-clad history all around you, but there's also always something free going on. Here are just a few suggestions of how to titillate your weekend guest:
Nan
If your Nan likes a good nose round a market as much as mine then the Past & Present Antiques & Crafts fair will be the perfect place to take the her for a Saturday stroll. It’s in Wanstead Place (off Wanstead High Street) and ok, it’s not completely free, but I’m sure you can find 50p behind the sofa.
Discover London Trails – Nans love that Trevor MacDonald off the telly. Take her to discover some of London’s forgotten gems with the venerable Sir Trevor’s dulcet tones to accompany you both. Download the guides from the website. There’s even info on where you can stop for a cuppa half way round.
Bessie mate
Disco Brasil – You and your mate can boogie the night away to axé, forró, samba, funk rio plus R+B and soul classics. Free entry before 9pm. Corks, Bond Street.
Hootenany at the Big Chill House – music, comedy and all sorts of fun sundries with a New Orleans feel and plenty of Southern Comfort splashing about. Charity donations go to help the musicians affected by Hurricane Katrina - 2pm to 11:30pm. Perfect if you danced a little too hard on Saturday night.
Auntie Wilma
Indian food tour - take her on a walking tour in Fulham to learn about the food, dance, fabrics and culture of one of the world’s most colourful nations. Saturday 2:30 starting at West Kensington tube station. One of a series of cultural walks.
Sunday night jazz – let her reminisce about her beatnik days with the Chris Saunders Quartet. Sunday at 7pm - Park Tavern, 212 Merton Road, Southfields (020 8488 8855).
Niece
Getting a bit mucky is always fun when you’re a kid – how about one of these creative workshops?
The Plot Thickens – let her get her imaginary fingers green and design her own seed and magical plant. Suitable for children from 5+.
The Building Exploratory, Hackney - 10:30-12:30 Saturday.
Chinese characters workshop – she'll learn all about the Chinese calendar animal for her birth year and make some calligraphy art for mum to put on the fridge.
Sunday at the National Maritime Museum
Uncle Roger
Born to rock – The life and times of the electric guitar.
Harrods has gone rock and roll – hosting a free exhibition on the history of the guitar. Take Unky Rog for a bit of fret-fondling fun.
So don't worry about this weekend, we've got it covered. For loads more free stuff to do in London check out London Free List.
Roll on payday - that's what we say!
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