26 uplifting things to do in London in April 2025

Sticks’n’Sushi deserves a standing ovation for its unique fusion of Japanese precision and Scandinavian simplicity. 

With its sleek, contemporary decor and warm ambiance, it’s an ideal spot for both casual dining and special occasions. 

When I dined at the Greenwich outpost on a midweek evening, I was impressed at how busy the restaurant felt. It comes as no surprise, given the vibrant menu offers an impressive mix of fresh sushi, delicate sashimi, and flavorful yakitori skewers, all beautifully presented. 

No weekend plans? London has a new bottomless brunch offering with a bold new twist as Sticks'n'Sushi in Shoreditch has just launched All You Can Sip, a brunch experience that redefines the weekend ritual with vibrant flavors, unlimited drinks, and eclectic beats from resident DJs, all in the heart of East London

Every Saturday from noon to 4 PM, indulge in a generous spread of starters, maki rolls, nigiri, and sizzling grill sticks, all perfectly paired with 90 minutes of free-flowing drinks. Sip on bottomless Kimchi Bloody Marys, Mio Sake, Asahi, wine, or explore a selection of no-and low-alcohol options.

The brunch menu, with a fully vegan option, is available exclusively at Sticks'n'Sushi Shoreditch at £70 per person inclusive of 90 minutes of limitless drinks. Upgrade to Collet Champagne for an additional £18pp.  

To book, visit www.sticksnsushi.com

Reviewed by Georgia Brown, Senior Lifestyle & Fashion Writer

I have been dreaming about L’ETO Caffe's selection of patisserie and incomparable burnt basque cheesecake ever since trying it out after a delivery to our office left us with plenty of gorgeous treats. 

The café group, who has locations across Soho, Covent Garden, Notting Hill and more, is happy to eat-in or takeaway, so whether it's part of a 'treat yourself' day or you need a little pick-me-up sent to your home, I heartily recommend trying one or two of their selection of treats, especially the cheesecake! 

If you can recall the scenes in Friends where Chandler and Rachel share a cheesecake that fell on the floor? Let's just say I would have had a similar reaction if I had dropped my slice of this heavenly treat! 

Visit menu.letocaffe.com/uk to check out their gorgeous selection! 

We’ve long been fans of MR PORTER’s Amsterdam outpost, so the news of its London debut had us counting down. Having just opened beneath Park Lane, the former Trader Vic’s has been completely transformed into a moody, elegant hideaway that blends the best of a modern steakhouse with the buzz of a late-night lounge. 

We were lucky enough to be among the first to dine at the elegant haunt. Opt for the bone-in Chateaubriand or the Avocado Carpaccio with Beluga caviar - both standouts from the Amsterdam menu - and don’t skip the Popcorn Crème Brûlée. At the 360° bar, the LOVE POTION cocktail is as playful as it sounds. Sophisticated, indulgent, and just a little bit wicked.

For reservations, visit www.mrportersteakhouse.com/london

Nothing says 'Easter' quite like a decadent roast dinner surrounded by family, but if you don't want to spend the Bank Holiday weekend in the kitchen, head to Terra By Carlo Cracco in Liverpool St for a roast with a difference.

The traditional meal has been given an Italian twist, with Yorkshire puddings swapped for mouth-watering focaccia, while the meat is sourced from the Italian butcher just downstairs from the restaurant. 

For a classic Easter feast, order the roast lamb and tuck into the mouth-watering meal accompanied by the Hugo 4 cocktail, while taking in all the views the city has to offer. 

For dessert, you can't go wrong with the tiramisu - because every roast should be followed by an Italian treat, don't you think?

If you’re going to name your restaurant after the queen of the Ancient Greek deities, it’s probably worth ensuring the food you cook is borderline godly. Happily, Hera more than lives up to its divine promise...

Tucked away in a quiet enclave of Stratford’s East Bank development, upon entry the first thing that strikes you is the quite magnificent wall-mounted cocktail bar. The Greek gods and goddesses lived on Mount Olympus, and with a ladder required to reach most of the bar’s contents, it feels an apt architectural tribute. 

After quaffing a couple of potent potations, we embarked on the food. As befits Greek custom, everything was brought out at once, and it was both a sight to behold and a delight to ingest. The highlights were a grilled sea bass that could well have been plucked straight from the Aegean, feta chips, a smoked aubergine dressing, and charcoal broccoli which, unbelievably, was rapturously demolished by a usually broccoli sceptical seven-year-old (albeit we tend not to baste our broccoli in garlicky butter at home).

The great joy of Hera’s offering is its lightness, meaning you can eat a lot while leaving plenty of room for dessert. It’s just as well because dessert didn’t disappoint. I opted for the loukoumades, fried dough adorned in lemon honey, cinnamon and pistachio; my wife had the galaktoboureko, hard to pronounce but very easy to eat being a plate of filo pastry and custard cream lusciousness. 

The long and the short of it: if you find yourself in E20 anytime soon, channel Athena (the Greek goddess of wisdom) and make the wise decision to search out Hera. And if you do so on the last Friday of each month, you will be treated to a Greek carnival replete with live music, dance and complimentary cocktails.

Reviewed by Tim Kiek, Head of Engagement and Communities

Rockwell's elegant ambience, art deco details and airy light-filled dining room makes for a delightful dining experience. It was the perfect pre-theatre spot for myself and a friend when we dined on a balmy Tuesday evening, with the restuarant being just a short ramble away from the West End.

The small plates menu is a highlight, offering refined yet satisfying bites ideal for sharing. The crispy squid is light and perfectly seasoned, while the burrata with heritage tomatoes is fresh and full of flavor. 

The fried potato terrine, with rosemary and slow roasted shallot aioli  is a must —crispy on the outside, buttery and indulgent inside. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted, making it easy to mix and match flavors without feeling too heavy before a show.

The wine list is exceptional, with a well-curated selection that enhances the food. Service is warm, attentive, and well-paced, ensuring a seamless experience without feeling rushed.

Whether you're after a quick bite or a leisurely pre-show indulgence, Rockwell delivers with elegance and ease. It's the kind of place that makes an evening feel special before the curtain even rises.

Spring is the time to gather your loved ones and indulge in endless chocolate, but with so many Easter themed treats in London it can be hard to choose, until now. Situated just a stone's throw away from Marylebone station is the iconic Landmark Hotel, where I had the chance to experience how they are celebrating the season of chocolate. 

The Landmark has always held its traditional Afternoon Tea in the gorgeous Winter Garden Restaurant, adorned with palm trees all under the glass atrium. But this month they are back with a twist, their Easter Afternoon Tea features sweets that steal the show with the likes of a Yorkshire rhubarb tartlet; white chocolate mousse; Valrhona dark chocolate choux and of course some mini chocolate egg toppings. This is all served alongside traditional Cornish clotted cream and preserves, but also my personal favourite which included salted pistachio ganache.

For those that don't have a huge sweet tooth unlike me there are a wide range of delicacies savoury sandwiches, which are actually bottomless including smoked Scottish salmon and poached chicken with soft herb mayonnaise and crème fraîche.

Tea can be served alongside a glass of champagne or a delicious glass of Wild Idol Alcohol Free Sparkling Rose. I would highly recommend visiting if you are looking for a special treat for a loved or celebrating a special occasion. Available between 7th-21st April, make sure to book to avoid disappointment.

Reviewed by Lauren Connolly, Senior Digital Designer

Rooftop season is in full swing, and I recently discovered a hidden gem right in the centre of the city.

Rucola is situated in Covent Garden's swanky The Yards area, at the top of the Conduit, with a rooftop as big as the indoor restaurant boasting impressive views of the skyline, dominated by The London Eye.

The restaurant offers incredible cocktails and an impressive wine list (we had a bottle of Rock Angel, because there's nothing better than rosé in the sun), as well as delicious Northern Italian-inspired food.

We booked in for brunch and had the Half Chicken "Salmoriglio", for a fresh and unique take on a roast chicken, with blood orange garnish - makes a change from avocado on toast!

We whiled away hours in the sun on the rooftop, with even the indoor section awash with heavenly light - if Rucola wasn't so brilliant, I'd want to keep this special spot a secret...

Don't let the queue out the door put you off swinging by Mary & Me on Blackfriars Rd during your lunch break. 

This popular spot is a total hit with locals, loved for it's incredibly fast service, friendly faces behind the counter and a delicious selection of freshly-made food for unbeatable prices. 

Mary & Me is HELLO!'s go-to spot for a fresh, filling, and affordable meal. Their protein boxes are packed with vibrant, high-quality ingredients that taste as good as they look. The portions are generous, the flavors are spot on, and it always feels like great value for money.

Reviewed by team HELLO!

As a seasoned theatre lover, I was intrigued by Theatre Royal Drury Lane's announcement: a brand-new 'Showstopping Afternoon Tea' that promises to weave the magic of the stage into the timeless tradition of tiny sandwiches and sweet treats. The theatre's legendary Red Coats, figures synonymous with VIP service for the past three decades, gave a warm and friendly welcome. 

Staying true to its theatrical roots, the Showstopping Afternoon Tea unfolds in two acts. The first, aptly titled 'Tread the Boards,' presented the savoury delights on a truly unique serving board – a limited-edition piece crafted from the original 101-year-old stage floor! 

Then came the intermission, a chance to savour the moment and anticipate the grand reveal of Act Two. The 'Showstopping Sweets' were concealed beneath a resplendent red velvet curtain. Our attentive Red Coat ensured our tea cups were never empty. The entire afternoon felt like a carefully choreographed performance, with each element - the setting, the service, the food and the theatrical touches - working in perfect harmony.

Theatre Royal Drury Lane Showstopping Afternoon Tea is available from 17 April, from £68 per person. To book, visit here.

Reviewed by Sharnaz Shahid, Deputy Online Editor

All eyes will be on Twickenham this April as England’s female rugby team, the Red Roses (hopefully) battle their way to a Six Nations win; their final match versus France takes place on 26th April. 

But you don’t need the rugby to have a heavenly time in Twickenham. Founded by Michelin-starred chef Alfred Prasad (formerly of Tamarind, where he became the youngest Indian chef to receive a Michelin star), British-Indian restaurant Shiuli is beloved by TW residents (and beyond) for its fresh cooking and quarterly, seasonal menus. The team pride themselves on their sustainability and the focus is on local - it would be remiss not to try Shuil’s fragrant botanical house gin, distilled across the river in Kingston 

Onto the food. Start with the creamy, fragrant burrata chaat, crisp soft-shell crab Koliwada or juicy grilled scallops, served with chunks of watermelon. When it comes to the main event, Shiuli is famed for its ‘skinny’ take on curry classics: while no butter or cream features, they promise ‘all of the flavour of the original’, and it delivers. I opted for the Malabar prawn and mango curry, served up with glistening caviar-like coconut bubbles, and delicious with roasted broccoli and truffle naan.

Save room for dessert: my dining companions raved about the winter carrot halva, with rhubarb carrot fudge, stem ginger and sago basundi (a dessert made with milk sugar, saffron, nuts and cardamom powder).

If you like your pizza piled high and your cocktails in pitchers, then you certainly won’t regret paying Covent Garden’s Doughnation a visit this April.

Like all of London’s best establishments, its presence isn’t screamingly obvious from the street, but once inside it becomes screamingly obvious you and your stomach are in for a very good time.

My friends and I tried the restaurant’s bottomless pizza and pitchers deal. Essentially as much pizza and as many cocktails as you can put away in an hour. 

Sometimes places that put such an emphasis on quantity put less of one on quality, but that certainly isn’t the case at Doughnation. The range of pizzas paired the classics (margherita and pepperoni) with two more outré offerings: potato and vegan. Both were surprisingly delicious, full of artisanal ingredients and perfectly executed.

There were also some lovely culinary accoutrements in the shape of sweetcorn ribs garlanded by a fresh basil pesto, and a burrata salad bursting with flavour. Oh, and you just have to try the Doughnation dips which make all other pizza dips seem drab and dreary by comparison.

Drinks wise, the three signature cocktails available were all piquant and refreshing (the grapefruit and rosemary spritz was my favourite), and just the right proportion of alcohol to mixers to keep the pizza slices whooshing down our gullets.

Whether you are looking for somewhere to enjoy a hearty meal before a trip to the theatre, or somewhere to relax with friends after work, Doughnation is the perfect fit. The £35 per head pricing is also an absolute steal given the Covent Garden setting and quality of the produce.

Doughnation’s bottomless pizza and pitchers deal is available Thursday, Friday & Sunday (4-8pm).

Reviewed by Tim Kiek, Head of Engagement and Communities

Anchored in the heart of Soho, Chotto Matte is a must if you're a sucker for upscale fusion food with a playful twist. A celebration of Nikkei cuisine, the restaurant brings together the very best of Japanese techniques and Peruvian ingredients, allowing for unlikely flavour combinations and surprising textures. 

I had the pleasure of sampling their 'Signature Sharing Menu' recently - and while it may be on the pricier side (£80 per person), it's a glorious feasting experience and a treat for any foodie. Comprising ten individual dishes (plus rice), the generous menu includes an array of meat, fish and vegetable dishes, as well as lighter offerings such as miso soup. 

Personal highlights included the Yellowtail Nikkei Sashimi with yuzu truffle soy, the pork and prawn gyoza with a sweet potato puree, the seriously crispy squid tempura and the slow-cooked braised beef with purple potato puree that flaked instantly off the bone. The menu concluded with a bowl of black sesame ice cream drizzled with chocolate sauce - a wonderful palette cleanser-esque dish with just the right level of sweetness. 

Food aside, their cocktail menu is also worth a mention. For something refreshing yet punchy, try their pisco sour which arrives in a frosted glass and is just as you'd expect - beautifully tangy with lashings of lime. 

As for the dining experience, it's an elegant and elevated affair. Bold artwork catches the eye, latin music floats over the tables (only on Thursdays alas) and the waiting staff are incredibly friendly and attentive. 

Reviewed by Phoebe Tatham, News and Features Writer 

Spring has burst into full bloom at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, where a world of pastel elegance and floral indulgence awaits. Step inside the historic hotel and discover The Rosebery, a modern masterpiece of a restaurant, where splashes of blush pink and zesty lime green create a lively, picture-perfect setting - ideal for both indulgence and Instagram.

Beyond the enchanting decor, the seasonally inspired menu is just as delightful. I experienced the Spring Afternoon Tea and indulged in a selection of exquisitely crafted cakes, each bursting with the flavors of spring. We sipped on botanical-infused cocktails that bloomed with floral notes, and explored a bespoke collection of 29 aromatic loose-leaf teas, handpicked to capture the very essence of the season.

The Spring Afternoon Tea - a symphony of delicate flavors and artistic presentation - is available for £89 per person.

Reviewed by Megan Bull, TV & Film Writer

We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect Saturday at PYRÃ. 

My partner and I, along with our two little ones, snagged a spot on the sun-drenched terrace and soaked up the incredible Queen’s Park vibe. While my partner and I indulged in some delicious Bloody Mary’s, the kids felt every bit as fancy with their refreshing mocktails.

The food was simply divine! The deconstructed lamb gyros was a hit with the kids, while the steak was hands down our favourite, cooked to medium-rare perfection and full of flavour.

PYRÃ recently arrived at Queen's Park, and it’s already making waves with its bold Mediterranean flair, courtesy of Head Chef Mattia Caddeo, who brings over 20 years of culinary expertise to the table. Inspired by the vibrant flavours of Spain and Greece, the menu is all about rustic simplicity with a modern twist. We were lucky to try the 25-day aged rib-eye, grilled octopus skewers, and Basque cheesecake for desert – and we would do so again in a heartbeat.

For those wanting to visit with friends, don’t miss their once-a-month Pastry Club - a morning extravaganza of coffee, matcha, juices, breakfast bites, and DJ beats.

Reviewed by Andrea Caamano, Digital Content Director

When the word ‘buffet’ is uttered, my mind instantly traverses two thoughts; one is of the ridiculous opulence Vegas-style being adopted over here by the likes of The Ned. The other is of the paltry hotel breakfasts consisting of lukewarm limp sausages and liquified beans which the bleary-eyed and jet legged fawn over. Luckily, there is a new contender in town courtesy of London institution Hyatt Regency - The Churchill.

I was cordially invited to their Mother’s Day brunch with the family, and we were not disappointed. A fifties style crooner welcomed us with her duclet song as were cordally invited to our table. The grand restaurant rang out with the cacophony of other diners distracting us for a moment until we laid eyes on the fare presented.

A glorious Sunday lunch with all the trimmings awaited, the beef perfectly cooked with as much gravy as you could drink. There’s a fresh salad option for the more health-conscious, and the children could not believe their eyes when they saw the dessert station. Macaroons and pink cakes plied high, and they filled their small boots on about three occasions. 

My favourite, however, was the rich and creamy Pasta Alla Ruota, a real treat and something if I can find as good as it is here I will over indulge. 

All saited, we were presented with a gift at the meal’s conclusion, a lovely caricature portrait of the family - a sweet touch. They are about to launch their Easter brunch, and you’d be remiss not to pay a visit.

To book, visit The Montagu Kitchen

Reviewed by Christian Anderson-Ramshall, Head of Channels

Situated in London’s bustling Holborn, NXY London is a stylish central London spot, perfect for gatherings with family or friends. The Instagram-friendly restaurant features trendy artwork and a striking central bar – the venue provided the perfect balance of busy yet intimate.

 With their live resident DJ performing music in the background, the atmosphere was lively but still allowed for conversation, which for me made it the perfect combination.

The brunch menu included a delicious selection of options, from Poached Eggs on Rosti and Chicken & Waffles to Brioche French Toast. I opted for their pulled Beef Tacos and can confirm they were delicious. For £20 per person (pp), you can upgrade to enjoy their bottomless selection of prosecco or mimosas.

Having tried many different brunch venues in London over the years, I can vouch that NXY was up there as one of my favourites. Next time, I’ll be keen to go back to experience their rooftop bar, which opens from 5 pm daily.

As spring settles over the capital and the skies (finally) begin to brighten, there’s something undeniably charming about a London rooftop in April. And few spots do elevated dining quite like Aviary Rooftop Bar & Restaurant. Perched above Finsbury Square, it’s just launched Birdsong Brunch, a new weekend fixture that might be our favourite excuse yet to rise and shine in style.

Kicking off Saturday 12 April, Birdsong Brunch is a full-on sensory affair: seasonal dishes, bottomless bubbles, and live DJ sets, all served up with sweeping views of the London skyline.

The menu brings a refined spin on brunch favourites. Pulled Wild Mushroom on Toast, paired with whipped stracciatella and pickled onions, hits all the right notes for a meat-free option, while the Eggs Benedict Cruffin with silky hollandaise and maple bacon jam. Sweet tooths won’t be disappointed either: the Carrot Cake Doughnut and Blackberry French Toast are every bit as rich as they sound. For sharing, go for the Seafood or Sweet Sharer platters.

Drinks-wise, it’s bottomless Prosecco (£27) or Champagne (£35), including Joseph Perrier Cuvée Royale, plus a bright selection of brunch cocktails: Mimosas, Bloody Marys, and the indulgent Baroko Coffee Martini among them.

Over Easter weekend, Birdsong Brunch extends to Good Friday and Easter Monday, with extra live entertainment in the mix.

If you’re after spring sunshine with a side of fizz and flavour, this new rooftop brunch is a fresh addition to the London scene and well worth bookmarking for April.

Reviewed by Rafael Rubio, Global Director of Audience Development

From Friday the 18th of April to Monday the 21st of April, French restaurant La Maison Ani is inviting guests to indulge in an elegant Easter spread. From gourmet egg dishes to freshly baked viennoiseries, you can kick off the long bank holiday weekend in style, as well as take home a delightful artist Easter egg as part of the experience.

The spicy Shakshuka, which features eggs baked in an aromatic tomato sauce was totally to-die-for, but equally as delicious was the Le Petit Déjeuner, a signature dish encompassing sausage, grilled halloumi and asparagus and eggs prepared to your taste.

If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, you can sample one of the restaurant’s specially curated Easter desserts, like the Pistachio Kunafa Chocolate Easter Bunny, a middle eastern inspired dessert with pistachio pastry and mouthwatering chocolate. 

Reviewed by Arianna Chatzidakis, Creative Content Director.

As a self-proclaimed seafood lover who grew up in the Philippines, I’ve always been on the hunt for the best, juiciest, and most premium lobsters around London.

If you're like me, then head to Burger & Lobster. From Soho to Bread Street, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to locations. With its New York-style restaurant vibe, you’ll feel the buzzing atmosphere, be greeted by welcoming staff, and enjoy dishes packed with options from both land and sea.

We started with their famous crunchy wagyu croquettes and grilled prawns, followed by a massive main combo: a freshly prepared 1.5lb lobster served with skinny fries, garlic mayo, and a rich buttery sauce. And let’s not forget the refreshing watermelon iced tea — perfect for this weather. Of course, there's always room for dessert, and I went with the melt-in-your-mouth Crème Brûlée.

In more good news, Burger & Lobster has also relaunched their 'Market Tuesday'. Every Tuesday from 5pm at all London locations, diners can enjoy a 1.25lb lobster, freshly prepared and served with their signature Classic Lemon & Garlic Butter for a smooth, buttery finish. Prices start at around £26 (and may vary weekly with market rates), offering a premium lobster experience without the premium price tag. You can mix and match your favourite sides to create the ultimate feast.

Reviewed by Celine Ponio Bagtas, Video Editor

Andrea Bocelli is set to take the O2 by storm with his live show on 1-2 May. The Italian tenor, 66, is set to perform alongside the world-class Czech National Symphony Orchestra, as well as dancers Angelica Gismondo and Francesco Costa and special guest vocalist Pia Toscano. "I am truly excited to return to the UK and Ireland next year," the singer said before the tour of Andrea Bocelli Live in Concert. "This year has been a particularly special one for me, as I celebrated the 30th anniversary of my career with some unforgettable performances, such as Hyde Park. 

"The energy and warmth I felt there were incredible, and it left such a lasting impression that I knew I had to come back. I can’t wait to share more beautiful moments with my fans, and I know these upcoming concerts will be just as magical and memorable."

For more information and to buy tickets, visit The O2.

This month, thousands of runners will be gearing up for the most popular marathon in the world - but the TCS London Marathon is nothing without its spectators. Join the crowds to support the elites, first-time runners and fancy dressed athletes taking on the 26.2 mile route across London's most iconic landmarks on 21 April. Who knows? You may just become inspired to sign up yourself next year… 

Don't miss the London Landmarks Half Marathon on 7 April, the only half marathon to go through both the City of London and City of Westminster.

An ideal group activity that doubles up as the perfect ice-breaker or team-bonding session is The Cube in Canary Wharf. 

Based on the popular TV game show, which saw contestants enter the cube to tackle an array of challenges, this immersive experience in London will test the skills of your balance, judgement, speed and memory.

We went as a team of six (highly competitive individuals, may I add!) and were split into smaller groups of two, to partake in both joint and solo challenges with the aim of beating the cube.We played a total of seven games which were chosen by random via an app we had to download, and which varied in levels of complexity. 

Our favourite game probably had to be the one which required us to work in pairs to transport a rolling ball a long piece of wood to the other side of the cube, whilst walking in unison with our partner. 

Another popular one involved escaping a projected digital maze in a time limit of just 22 seconds.The hilarious thing about the cube is that whilst you’re waiting for your turn, you get to watch the other members in your group compete through the large glass walls that surround each task room (cue: endless laughter!). 

Overall, we'd recommend this as a great group or couples activity.

Book via www.bookthecube.com.

Reviewed by the Creative Team.

Looking for a fun and immersive activity to enjoy solo, with friends, or as a family? The brand-new Minecraft Experience, which has launched this month in London, is the place to be.

I was lucky enough to try it out alongside my eight-year-old son and a fellow mum—and let me tell you, it felt like a full-on workout session. It was interactive, exciting, and incredibly fun, even for someone like me who has never played a second of Minecraft in her life.

During the 45-minute adventure, visitors must solve puzzles and battle mobs, working together with others in the same timed entry slot to save a village under siege from a zombie attack. As you navigate through Minecraft’s iconic biomes, teamwork is essential to succeed.

My son gave it an incredible "million out of ten" rating and is already begging to go back. As for me? I am pretty certain I am the coolest mum in London right now!

Reviewed by Andrea Caamano, Digital Content Director