As we turn the corner into a new year, it looks like the end may finally be in sight for the pandemic. With London opening back up and available for tourists yet again, there are plenty of new things in the city to celebrate this year. From new museum exhibits to a massive royal celebration, there is a lot going on in London for residents and visitors alike to do. We’ve identified five places and events you should check out if you’re going to London in 2022, and you can share some of your own suggestions with us in the comments.
Crossrail/Elizabeth Line Opening
Crossrail, also known as the Elizabeth Line, is a major railway project that’s been under construction since 2015. It stretches for 73 miles through Central London with termini in Reading and Shenfield. After so long under construction, Transport for London boss Andy Byford announced that the Elizabeth Line is set to open in June of this year. Crossrail is expected to increase London’s rail capacity by 10% and carry roughly 200 million passengers per year.
Science Museum Sci-Fi Exhibit
Author Arthur C. Clarke contributed to the idea that science fiction is often a precursor to science fact after predicting a number of scientific advances in his works. Beginning in October 2022, London’s Science Museum plays host to the exhibit “Science Fiction: Voyage into the Unknown,” which will put visitors into an immersive sci-fi story of their own while examining sci-fi works and their impact on real-world science. The Museum’s idea for the exhibit is exactly what a writer like Clarke would have wanted, inspiring tomorrow’s scientists with the ideas of what could be.
Lewisham Borough of Culture
Each borough in London has something unique to offer and the Borough of Culture designation is London’s version of the City of Culture arts celebration. For 2022, the Borough of Lewisham plays host to the year-long celebration starting on January 28th. Music, art, dance, and more are just some examples of what Lewisham’s local artists have in store for the coming year. For more information and to see what events, workshops, and performances will be going on when you visit the city, you can check out the website wearelewsiham.com. Since the event lasts throughout 2022, you’re sure to find something to attend and appreciate about Lewisham any time of the year.
East End Women’s Museum
The East End Women’s Museum formed as an organization in 2015 to protest a Jack the Ripper Museum that opened on Cable Street but has since hosted virtual and pop-up exhibits celebrating the women of East London. This year, the EEWM is set to open up a physical location in Barking with exhibits that will highlight the contributions of the East End’s women to the area’s history, a focus that has been largely lacking from similar institutions. Everything from the ordinary to the extraordinary will be on display, and any fans of the East End should check out the museum when it opens.
Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee
There’s no doubt that Queen Elizabeth II is the United Kingdom’s longest-reigning Sovereign, and 2022 marks her 70th year on the throne. To celebrate, the country and its capital will be hosting events from June 2nd to June 5th, some of which will be special for the jubilee, while others are traditional ceremonies such as the Queen’s Birthday Parade (Trooping the Colour) with a special jubilee twist. Buckingham Palace will be hosting a special party and concert that will be broadcast to the nation, and you can bet many boroughs and neighborhoods will be throwing their own parties during the weekend. You can check out royal.uk for more information on the upcoming festivities.
Author: John Rabon
John is a regular writer for Anglotopia and its sister websites. He is currently engaged in finding a way to move books slightly to the left without the embarrassment of being walked in on by Eddie Izzard. For any comments, questions, or complaints, please contact the Lord Mayor of London, Boris Johnson's haircut.