Frieze Week in London marks one of the most significant events in the annual cultural calendar, bringing together the world’s most talented artists under one roof. Frieze Masters focuses on art created before the 21st century (anything from antiquity to contemporary art of the ’50s, ’60s and beyond), while Frieze London, often seen as the younger, edgier cousin of the Masters fair, focuses on art produced after 2000. There’s a 14-minute walk in between the two through leafy Regent’s Park, the trees ablaze with autumn colours. On the way, you’ll see branded Frieze trucks and stylish fair attendees walking between the two fairs (some outfits we saw could rival Fashion Week).
Aside from the different collections they house, the two art fairs also have different characters. A couple we met at the Nobu Catering pop-up in Frieze Masters, who had travelled from Switzerland to experience the height of London’s cultural calendar, said they preferred Frieze Masters as it’s more relaxed. And we’d have to agree that the mood feels less hectic, with more room for contemplation, wandering through the make-shift avenues filled with fine art and antique sculptures.
‘Don’t move to Dubai, London is still the place to be,’ a Financial Times headline read this week, citing ‘cultural behemoth’ Frieze as one of the key reasons that London is very much a contender for the cultural capital of the world. Frieze Week shows the London art world at its peak, while the city fizzes with new-season energy, still flying high from September’s Fashion Week.
Frieze needs to be seen to be believed; it’s staggering how much art is brought together from all corners of the globe. The art world can sometimes feel intimidating, but the beauty of a place like Frieze is that it’s a place where you can wander freely and let your mind roam during quiet moments of contemplation.
Frieze Week 2025
Frieze Week takes place in 2025 from Wednesday 15 to Sunday 19 October, seeing visitors travel from far and wide to experience the vast collection of art up close. But the excitement of Frieze doesn’t stop with the fairs. In fact, that’s just the beginning. As a surge of creativity flows through the capital, there are plenty of opportunities to embrace the art world, even if you’re not attending the official event.
Foodie pop-ups
Sessions Arts Club also returned to Frieze London this year, featuring a seasonal menu from Head Chef Abigail Hill, including delights like Carlingford oysters, Cobble Lane fennel salami, Jerusalem artichoke risotto, and goat’s curd with rainbow chard, and an immersive art space that takes its inspiration from everything from ancient caves to Basic Instinct, in collaboration with architect Russell Potter and designer Richard J. McConkey. Sessions Art Club describes the exhibition as focusing on ‘the cold, cinematic light of the famous interrogation scene, which has informed the palette of deep blues throughout the space’.
As well as hosting a pop-up in the festival itself, Marylebone’s chic Nobu Hotel London Portman Square will be elevating the Frieze experience with its own exhibition. A stone’s throw from Regent’s Park, the hotel is hosting an exclusive exhibition by acclaimed British artist John Atkin. The artist’s The White Box exhibition brings together wall-based words and freestanding sculptures in the stunning gallery space.
There’s also a Frieze-themed afternoon tea, inspired by John Atkin’s intriguing sculpture, Nomad, and Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s travels (pictured above), and diners will delight at the beautifully-crafted cakes.
Nobu Catering is also available at Frieze Masters, bringing their signature dishes and delightful cocktails to the fair, allowing art lovers to indulge in a delicious lunch from one of London’s most beloved restaurants. As well as butter-soft sashimi, light and delicious sushi and signature hot plates, diners can opt for an aesthetically pleasing Bento Box alongside a glass of champagne or cocktail for the ultimate Nobu lunch experience.
Explore how Nobu Hotel London Portman Square captures the essence of modern luxury in our exclusive feature.
Evening events
Aki London, the newly launched Japanese restaurant in Cavendish Square, is one of the places to be in central London right now, with sleek interiors and exceptionally beautiful bathrooms. During Frieze Week, the restaurant is hosting an exclusive showcase of its acclaimed art collection curated by Dr Polina Surina and Virginie Puertolas Syn. However, you don’t have to attend the event to appreciate the beautiful art collection at this exciting new restaurant, as art is a major part of the dining experience. To be honest, the food at Aki (pictured below) feels like artwork itself.
Multiple galleries in the West End are also staying open late to celebrate London’s art week. Meanwhile, art lovers can pop into The Rosewood for a glass of champagne in its elegant bar and to experience an artist residency by London-based Rose Electra Harris, whose vibrant aesthetic has been installed across key areas of the British manor house for viewings and purchase. There’s also a stunning Hokusai-inspired Art Afternoon Tea to indulge in after a day spent exploring the fairs.
Where to stay during Frieze 2025
The Landmark has partnered with Frieze London for the first time, offering an exclusive overnight stay. Guests can enjoy breakfast in the iconic Winter Garden restaurant before heading to the fair, with two complimentary tickets included in the package. Fergus Stewart, CEO and General Manager, says: “Frieze is one of the world’s leading art fairs and being right on its doorstep makes The Landmark London the ultimate base for collectors and enthusiasts. We’re delighted to offer our guests unrivalled access to London’s contemporary art scene.”
After a day immersed in contemporary art, unwind in true Landmark style with their renowned Afternoon Tea experience, a timeless London indulgence served beneath the hotel’s glass atrium.
Broadwick Soho is also offering an art-themed base for the week, hosting art tours with curator Jonathan Brook so that guests can explore the extensive collection. Notably, the collection includes Andy Warhol’s famous Shoe Sketches, once part of David Bowie’s estate.
At The Rosewood, those who want to really indulge can book the Artist Getaway package, a curated stay including an expert-led exhibition tour by Rita Del Curto Askenasy of MTArt, as well as a luxurious suite, two VIP tickets to Frieze London, exhibition chauffeur service, a bottle of champagne on arrival, and breakfast for two.
And, of course, Nobu Portman Square, another key player in Frieze 2025, is an ideal spot for visitors to London to stay while attending the Fair, with easy access to its in-house exhibition and specially curated afternoon tea. John Atkin’s exhibition, Nomad: Drawings & Sculptures, will be hosted in The White Box gallery space at Nobu Portman Square from October 13 to 26, 2025.
