The 12 best things to do in London this weekend

It’s that awkward period in mid-February, where you’ve been so busy sorting out what to do on Valentine’s Day that you’ve neglected your weekend plans.

Not to worry, though. We’ve picked out some of the best and most interesting things to do in London this weekend, whether you’re looking for free entertainment, a cheap afternoon or evening out, or something that costs a little more.

1. 1.David Granick – The East End in Colour 1960-80

2. 2.No Ordinary Bicycle: John Kemp Starley and the two-wheeled revolution

3. 3.Black films and white power

   This in-depth talk looks at the struggle black films have had in getting picked up or produced, examining decades’ worth of cinematic and civil rights history. You’re likely to encounter subjects which haven’t been given the attention they maybe deserve in the past, and all in all it’ll be a real eye-opener.https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/black-films-and-white-power-10-years-of-african-odysseys-tickets-39994024203?aff=efbeventtix - Free, Saturday, 6pm, Belvedere Road SE1

4. 4.East LDN Love Jam

   It’s a free party at Old Street’s Magic Roundabout just before Valentine’s Day. Is it too late to find love? That’s not for us to say. Is there a steady stream of food and drink throughout the party? Absolutely. These things get busy so you’ll want to get your name on the list.https://www.facebook.com/events/1948823498691333/ Free, Saturday 5pm-11pm, Old Street Roundabout EC1V

5. 5.London bookshop crawl

6. 6.'Simpsons' Quiz/Valentine’s Love Tester Special

7. 7.Close Up on Michael Haneke

8. 8.Bianco43 Italian Carnival Aperitif

   Italian food is great in any circumstances, but an entire carnival of the stuff, right by Trafalgar Square – that’s chef-kissing-fingers good. Bianco43 is known for its pizza, but here it’s going to be pulling out all the stops with a range of stuzzichini (essentially Italian small plates) including arancini, cured meats and Neapolitan pizza.https://www.facebook.com/events/2026303980988682/ £10 (includes a drink), Sunday 5pm-11pm, Northumberland Avenue WC2N 

9. 9.Orchids Festival at Kew Gardens

10. 10.Vegan Life Live London

11. 11.'Best F(r)iends' advance screening

12. 12.Pluto