Top 5 things to do in September

1. Bling, V&A Museum of Childhood, until 7 November 2010

 An exhibition in partnership with London College of Fashion, taking a closer look at the diversity of jewellery in east London, with emphasis on how the ornaments we use to decorate our bodies often have great personal and cultural significance. From the jewellery that makes a statement about material value to the jewellery that tells a story of sentimental value associated with the giver, be it a piece of gold Bengali wedding jewellery or a child-made plastic bracelet.

 Bling combines the work of local school children, Foundation Diploma students from London College of Fashion and contemporary jewellers with East End connections.

Find out more online.

2. Tent London, Truman Brewery, 23-26 September

Tent London is the ground-breaking show for forward-thinking design across all disciplines, delivering the very best contemporary and vintage design, architecture and interiors and the world of digital.

Tent London an annual event which takes place in the capital's most exciting venue, the Old Truman Brewery, a former industrial site, as part of the London Design Festival.

Find out more on their website.

3. Open House London, 18-19 September

 Open House London, the capital's greatest architectural showcase, will take place on 18 & 19 September 2010.

The initiative is a simple but powerful concept: hundreds of great buildings of all types and periods open up their doors to all, completely for FREE. It is a truly city-wide celebration of the buildings, places and neighbourhoods where we live, work and play, and is your opportunity to get out and get under the skin of London's amazing architecture.

Visit Open House London's website for full programme details.
 

4. Counter Cafe, 4a Roach Rd, Hackney Wick E3 2PA, open 7 days a week

The Counter Cafe would never be found if it wasn't for it's growing reputation as one of the best cafe's in all of East London. It's unconventional position (well away from any main artery, or centre) requires the loyalty of it's customers and their positive opinions to spread the word.

If you want a nice foamy coffees, all day brunch, freshly made sandwiches prepared with only the freshest quality foods, or a treat like Jess's World Famous chocolate brownies, then this is the place for you.

The cafe has been reviewed and endorsed by recent Barista Champion of the World; James Hoffmann.

For further details and opening times visit the Counter Cafe website.

5. 10 Gales

If you're looking for something different, why not visit 10 Gales?  A contemporary art space, live show venue, vintage fashion boutique, coffee shop and hairdressers. Tucked away under the railway arches by Bethnal Green tube station, 10 Gales is a sanctuary for everything you could wish for awaits.

Pop Up art spaces happen all over London, but 10 Gales is here to stay. It is an artists' art space: a space that wants to be overtaken by the work on show, versatility is its key. Late night openings (particularly on First Thursdays) and events themed around the exhibitions add extra excitement. This is a living gallery space that shows its workings and influences and invites everyone in to be a part of the sensation.

Situated at the back of the ground floor is the Cut & Go hairdressing salon offer prices ranging from £5 - £15 it's a chance for styling not to be missed.

Upstairs is the coffee shop. Proper coffee, cakes and biscuits in a relaxed and seductive environment where you can leaf through the latest fashion and art mags or get on with checking your emails - thanks to Wi-Fi.

While waiting for your fresh brew you can browse over the amazing collection of vintage and brand-spanking new designer clothing in the fashion boutique. Nestled alongside are collections of contemporary jewellery by up and coming designers, plus an extravagant range of designer shoes and handbags.

Find out more about what's happening on the 10 Gales website.

If you have any tips about interesting venues or places to eat you've visited, exciting things you've done or places you would recommend send your suggestions to media@bowarts.com

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