From car boot sales to the London Film Festival: Five things to do in London this weekend, October 7 to 9

It’s beginning to feel a lot like autumn in London, with the leaves turning and that beautiful cold crisp air.

As always there’s plenty of fun events happening across the city worth wrapping up for.

From the BFI London Film Festival to classic car boot sales, there’s something for everyone this weekend, October 7 to 9.

BFI London Film Festival

BFI Southbank, Belvedere Road, SE1 8XT (and other locations) Until October 16 Tickets £10 to £16

If you’re a film lover, get yourself down to the BFI London Film Festival.

The UK’s biggest film festival is in its 66th year and will be showing the new movies as well as BFI archives, short films, XR experiences and talks.

Enjoy 11 days and nights of galas, screenings, events, parties and film-related happenings around London.

Mexico at Kew Gardens

Temperate House, Kew Gardens, Richmond, TW9 3AF October 1 to 31 Tickets £15 (adults)

If you’re looking for something for the whole family, Kew Gardens is getting a Mexican makeover.

The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew will be transforming the gardens of Temperate House with the culture and biodiversity of Mexico.

There will be art from leading Mexican artists, fiesta events and after-hours specials with traditional music, live performances and cookery demonstrations.

Classic Car Boot Sale

Granary Square, Kings Cross, N1C 4AA October 8 to 9 Tickets £5

If you’re looking to pick up some new deals, The Classic Car Boot sale is back!

In King’s Cross this weekend you’ll find vintage fashion, accessories, homewares and collectables – all sold from the boots of head-turning vintage vehicles.

When you’re not browsing the vintage finds, you can enjoy craft beer, cocktails and street food, all served from vintage vans, while DJs will be impressing pop lovers with vintage vinyls.

‘The Spirit of London’ Pop-Up Gallery

133 Bethnal Grn Rd, E2 7DG October 7 and 8 Free

Calling all gin and art lovers. Beefeater gin has teamed up with east-London based artist Lakwena, to launch a vibrant new design which illustrates the energy and multiculturalism that defines the capital.

Lakwena has curated a collective of nine creatives who embody London’s spirit.

The group of like-minded people from different disciplines including art, dance, and food and drink, from across the capital showcasing the best of London’s globally renowned culture.

Visitors to the gallery will be able to enjoy a free G&T, whilst viewing the specially curated pieces, shot by collective member Kiran Gidda.

Stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbour Totoro

Barbican Centre, Silk St, Barbican, EC2Y 8DS October 8 2022 to January 21 2023 Tickets £15 to £95

The Royal Shakespeare Company’s (RSC) adaptation of the Studio Ghibli classic My Neighbour Totoro is premiering at the Barbican this weekend.

Mixing live acting, animation and puppetry, the play will be directed by the great Phelim McDermott and will feature puppetry created by Basil Twist and music from Joe Hisaishi’s iconic score performed live.

Join sisters Satsuki and Mei as they are swept up in exciting adventures with their new neighbours transported to a long-forgotten realm of spirits, sprites, and natural wonder.