London is full of creative people, but in such a huge city it can be tricky to actually meet them. Whether you’re new in town or just looking to grow your circle, there are plenty of ways to connect. From casual meetups and buzzing festivals to cozy cafés where ideas flow as easily as coffee, London has endless spots to find your people. Here’s how to meet other creatives in the city and start building real connections.
Whether you're a designer, illustrator, filmmaker, or working in any creative field, this guide will help you find your people in the city. From casual meetups to vibrant community events,
London
offers countless opportunities to connect, collaborate, and get inspired.
Creative Lunch Club is a global community for people working in the creative industries. Whether you are a graphic designer, a photographer, a marketer, or a filmmaker, the Creative Lunch Club gives you the chance to regularly meet other creatives in your city for lunch.
Friends of Figma is a global network of local design groups supported by Figma, where UX, UI, and product designers come together to learn and exchange ideas. Each chapter hosts events like design critiques, community talks, and tool-focused workshops to foster collaboration and creative growth.
The Design Kids is a global community for emerging designers, with city meetups, interviews, jobs, and practical resources to help you build your folio and grow your career.
ZZEG ZZAG is a creative initiative showcasing collaborative projects and immersive gatherings. Their meetups bring together artists, makers and curious minds in a vibrant, community led atmosphere.
Type Thursday brings type lovers together each month for drinks, talks, and a laid-back group critique to sharpen your letterforms. Hang with the community and get feedback on works in progress.
Ladies, Wine & Design is a global community uplifting creative women and nonbinary folks with meetups, talks, and mentorship. Inclusive vibes, real talk, and chapters around the world.
CreativeMornings is a global series of free, monthly morning talks that bring creatives together for coffee, inspiration, and good vibes.
Creative Lives in Progress is a UK-based platform and community that connects emerging creatives with industry opportunities, resources, and inspiration. Through events, mentorship, and inclusive networks, it helps people break into the creative industries and build meaningful connections.
The Barbican Centre is one of London’s most important cultural hubs, bringing together art, film, music, theatre and architecture in a single brutalist complex. It’s a place to wander, attend exhibitions or performances, and spend time among people actively engaging with culture.
Somerset House is a central meeting point for contemporary culture, hosting exhibitions, creative studios, festivals and seasonal events. Its courtyard and riverside setting make it a natural third place for creatives to spend time between work, culture and social life.
The Institute of Contemporary Arts is a long-standing hub for experimental culture, film, talks and contemporary art. It attracts an engaged, curious crowd and encourages conversations beyond mainstream culture.
Spitalfields is a historic market and cultural destination hosting independent vendors, makers, food stalls and events that showcase diverse design, craft and creative entrepreneurship.
Present & Correct is a design focused stationery shop known for its beautifully crafted paper goods, tidy desk tools and nostalgic objects that inspire creativity and bring order to everyday work.
Bambi Bar is a cocktail spot known for creative drinks, contemporary design and a lively atmosphere where crafted beverages and curated music combine for social nights out.
Coal Drops Yard blends architecture, design, food and public space into a walkable creative environment. It works well as an informal hangout for unstructured time and chance encounters.
The Barbican Centre is one of London’s most important cultural hubs, bringing together art, film, music, theatre and architecture in a single brutalist complex. It’s a place to wander, attend exhibitions or performances, and spend time among people actively engaging with culture.
Rich Mix is a community-focused cultural centre with cinemas, exhibitions, talks and workshops. It’s approachable and diverse, making it a strong third place for creatives who value openness and cross-cultural exchange.
Somerset House is a central meeting point for contemporary culture, hosting exhibitions, creative studios, festivals and seasonal events. Its courtyard and riverside setting make it a natural third place for creatives to spend time between work, culture and social life.
Battersea Arts Centre is known for participatory theatre and community-driven cultural work. It’s a welcoming third place where experimentation, discussion and shared experiences are central.
The Roundhouse is a landmark cultural venue known for live music, performance and creative education. It acts as both a destination and a gathering point for people involved in contemporary culture.
The Institute of Contemporary Arts is a long-standing hub for experimental culture, film, talks and contemporary art. It attracts an engaged, curious crowd and encourages conversations beyond mainstream culture.
SXSW London is the new European edition of the iconic SXSW festival, bringing together creativity, culture, technology, and innovation in one multidisciplinary event.
It features talks, performances, exhibitions, and networking opportunities that connect global thinkers, artists, and creators in the heart of London.
UX London is a three-day conference that combines inspiring talks with hands-on workshops across the themes of discovery, design, and delivery.
It offers a chance to learn from industry leaders, collaborate with peers, and connect with the wider UX community.
Leading Design is a two-day conference for design leaders curated by Clearleft. Sessions cover hiring, culture, team structure, stakeholder management, and wellbeing.
London Design Festival is an annual design event presenting landmark commissions, installations, exhibitions and talks. It includes the Global Design Forum, a partner programme and the London Design Medals.
CreatorFest is a creator-economy event bringing together brands, creators, agencies, and tech platforms. It explores influencer marketing, brand partnerships, audience growth, ROI, and creator-led media.
London Craft Week is a citywide celebration of craft, with exhibitions, open studios, and hands-on events popping up all over London.
Join us for an inspiring gathering of 8 creatives at Number 90 Bar in London. This is your opportunity to connect with fellow creatives, exchange ideas, engage in thoughtful conversations, and build new friendships. Take a seat at the table and be part of a vibrant creative community.
Get crafty at M.Y.O, a friendly Central London studio running beginner‑friendly arts & crafts workshops—from pottery and lino printing to painting and vision boards. Perfect for fun hangouts, unique parties, or team socials, with all materials and chill vibes included.
Creative Lunch Club is amazing! It makes it easy to connect with other creatives in your area, making new friends every month. I’ve really enjoyed my lunches so far.
I recently signed up for Creative Lunch Club and I am enjoying the experience so much. It’s a great way to connect with other creatives in your area.
Creative Lunch Club is always a treat. If you are new to a city, looking for collaborators or just nice humans, I would recommend.
