April What’s On: Out & About in SW London & Surrey

From riverside socialising to spring lamb spotting and local, stunning flower markets – there’s plenty to do this April as lockdown restrictions are eased further

1 

Dine and drink al fresco 

If all is going to plan, then pubs and restaurants with outdoor spaces will be open once again from April 12. We can’t wait – head to our comprehensive guide to everything al fresco in south west London and Surrey.

2 

Comic capers at Kew 

Kew Gardens will be hosting the Beano crew for Dennis’ birthday with Dennis, Gnasher and all their Beanotown friends with a comic strip created especially for Kew and an interactive story trail around the Gardens. 31 March to 18 April.

3 

Spring is here 

Enjoy spring in all its glory at a top local garden. Highlights this month include Hampton Court’s tulip festival. Over 100,000 bulbs have been planted – Mary II started the tradition for tulip growing at the palace. 17 April to 3 May.

4 

Theme park thrills 

Chessington World of Adventure is gearing up for an April 12 reopening with some fabulous rides for all ages across its themed worlds. With the zoo as well, you can combine your thrill-seeking with some downtime watching the animals. 

5 

Easter trails 

The National Trust will be hosting special Easter trails across its gardens. Check its website for the latest but events will include a special activity trail with a chocolate treat at the end. 

6 

Head to the beach – in Fulham 

Fulham Beach Club opens 12 April with its riverside location, complete with beach huts and palm trees. There’s a full moon party too at the end of the month.

7 

Kingston’s book club for kids 

Kids who love reading and making up stories can sign up for Chatterbooks, a free monthly book club hosted by Kingston Libraries for children aged 9-11. Every month, the book club will meet over Zoom on the third Wednesday of every month at 4pm. 

The best family walks across south west London & Surrey for those weekend adventures

8 

In Bloom 

Along with our local gardens looking beautiful, decorate your home and garden with beautiful blooms. Chiswick Flower Market (pictured top) is reopening first Sunday of April. And now is a great time to get to one of our local garden centres for some garden colour now that the frosts should have passed. 

9 

Meet the animals 

Bocketts Farm hopes to reopen on 12 April, in line with government guidelines. Spring sees the arrival of the lambs. There’s plenty of fun outdoors too including a giant jumping pillow and tree house towers. 

10 

Comedy Nights 

Get your giggle on with a virtual comedy night. Outside the Box has been keeping us entertained through the lockdown. 

11 

Mudlarking: A Virtual Talk

Join Jason Sandy, a Member of the Society of Thames Mudlarks, for a talk on mudlarking; a tradition dating back to the 18th century, for the Emery Walker’s Trust, Hammersmith on Saturday April 24th. Entry is via donation. More info.

12 

Ad Lib Gallery

This new contemporary art space is set to open its doors on April 12. Prints and original artwork will be on show, with the brochure available to download prior to visiting.