Today's Story
Well, hello there, London! It's Thursday, September 11, 2025, and if you're planning to get around the city today, you might want to pack your patience and a good book, because the RMT union strikes are causing severe disruptions across the entire London Underground network. That's right, folks, it's a case of little to no service on all Tube lines and a complete shutdown of the DLR.
If you were hoping for a smooth commute, you're in for a bit of a ride. The Elizabeth Line, Overground, and Trams are running, but they're expected to be absolutely packed. Just a heads-up, the Elizabeth Line won't be stopping at Bond Street, Tottenham Court Road, Farringdon, Liverpool Street, and Whitechapel before 8:00 AM. For those relying on National Rail, Chiltern Railways services between Aylesbury and London Marylebone are significantly affected, with South Ruislip station closed all day. Thameslink services will also be taking their sweet time, not stopping at Farringdon until around 7:30 AM. And as if that wasn't enough, bus services in west, northwest, and southwest London might feel the ripple effect from Friday due to separate First Bus strikes.
This transport turmoil is putting a real strain on London's tourism and hospitality sector, with businesses already reporting millions in lost bookings. So, if you're a tourist, maybe consider a nice long walk or a scenic boat trip along the Thames – the Totally Thames Festival is still in full swing, after all!
But it's not all doom and gloom! On the brighter side, London is doubling down on family fun with Sky Zone expanding its operations, aiming to boost our tourism infrastructure. And in the world of tech and travel, TravelX is beefing up its data and AI leadership, all in the name of enhancing visitor experiences. There's also a growing chorus of support for a 'modest overnight accommodation levy' for visitors, which could bring in some much-needed revenue to keep London shining.
Looking for something to do? The city is brimming with activities! You can embark on ghastly ghost tours, explore 'Mary Poppins' film locations, or catch some laughs at comedy nights in Soho. Theatres, musicals, art exhibitions, and immersive experiences are aplenty. Don't miss the 'Titanic: Echoes From The Past' exhibition in Camden, a virtual journey to honor the ill-fated liner, or the ongoing Kurt Cobain Unplugged exhibition at the Royal College of Music Museum. Later this month, get ready for the Design Festival and Open House London.
For our Black communities, Gilsons are bringing Brazilian music to Camden, and the 'Freedom Rising: The Art of Owusu-Ankomah' exhibition is a must-see. And for those celebrating East and Southeast Asian heritage, the Korean Cultural Centre UK launches 'Mieumwanbo: Strolling Through Korean Gardens,' K-pop star Wonho is performing at Shepherds Bush Empire, and ESEA Heritage Month celebrations continue with the Kingston ESEA Culture Festival and the London Mid-Autumn Fair.
And for the foodies? Oh, London's culinary scene is buzzing! Today marks the opening of Solaya in Hoxton, a French Mediterranean gem by Kenny Atkinson. Amy Poon is bringing home-cooked Chinese flavors to Somerset House with Poon's, and Chef Angela Hartnett is launching Cicoria at The Royal Opera House. Mayfair welcomes elite sushi with Tobi Masa, and Covent Garden gets a taste of Vietnam with Cô Thành. Kudu Collective is relocating to Marylebone with a South African twist. Plus, keep an eye out for the highly anticipated Carbone, Sri Lankan street food at Adoh!, NYC-style pizza at Slayer, Michael Caines at The Stafford, Parisian-Italian vibes at Il Bambini Club, and Syrian delights at Aram.
So, despite the transport challenges, London is definitely not short on excitement, culture, and delicious food today!