It’s back to school this week, so brush up on your knowledge of nature or learn some new skills. Failing that, there’s still time to grab some summer sun and hit up an urban beach. Here’s our pick of the best events to come to east London boroughs this week.
Lewisham
Horniman Museum and Garden: "Extremes"
Until November 2, Open 10.30am - 5.30pm. 100 London Road, SE23 3PQ
A family-friendly exhibition offering inquisitive types the chance to discover how animals and plants survive in extreme environments through games, experiments and films. Child tickets cost £3.30, Adults from £6.60, Family tickets are £16.50. Prices include 10% voluntary Gift Aid donation
The Library at Deptford Lounge, 6pm,
Weekly film screenings begin on Monday and last until the end of December, through Lewisham council. A full description of film screenings can be picked up from the Library reception, but a range of thought-provoking titles have been promised, from current hollywood blockbusters to art house and world cinema.
Tower Hamlets
Anna Weiss
Until Saturday September 13, 7.30pm. The Space, 269 Westferry Road, E14 3RS
A heavy but rewarding drama highlighting False Memory Syndrome. The play was first performed in the 90s when the subject of "false memories" and the ethics of therapy was raw and controversial. Tickers £10/£12.
Midnight Madness
Sunday August 31, 6pm. Copper Box Arena, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, E20 3EL
Basketball comes to the Olympic Park this weekend, featuring a slam dunk contest, three point shoot out, an interactive fan zone and live performances from 16-25 year old national players. A great opportunity to experience the buzz of the world famous sports arena. Tickets are £5.
Royal Victoria Beach, 10am. Royal Victoria Dock, Watersports Centre, Tidal Basin Rd, E16 1AF
Catch the last rays of summer sunshine before the return to school this week by grabbing your towel and heading down to Victoria Dock's temporary beach set-up. Featuring genuine sand for serious urban sandcastles, deck chairs for posing and activities for children and adults alike. Who needs the Mediterranean when you've got the Thames?Free entry.
Hackney
Croydon
Knit and Stitch
Monday September 1, 2pm- 4pm. New Addington Centre, 61 Central Parade, New Addington, CR0 0JD
Get your knit on at New Addington library this Monday and every Monday. Embroidery, crotchet, frenching – it's the hipsters' flavour du jour, but all ages and beard choices are welcome. Free entry, knitting needles provided.
Ancestry Research
Monday September 1, 10.45am-11.45am, Bandstead Road, Purley Library, CR8 3YH
A free workshop for those looking to learn about and trace their family tree. Presented in an hour from local experts. And that's about it!