Valentine’s weekend is set to be an unforgettable celebration of love, music, and history at the Handel Hendrix House in Mayfair. This unique museum, once home to two of the most influential musicians in history – composer George Frideric Handel and rock legend Jimi Hendrix – will host a series of special events from Friday 14th to Sunday 16th February 2025.
Love songs and late-night sketching
Kicking off the festivities on Friday, visitors can immerse themselves in the soulful sounds of classic rock love songs performed live by guitarist Billy Marrows in Jimi Hendrix’s bedroom between 11 am and 1 pm. Included in the general admission ticket, this intimate session promises to bring a touch of bohemian romance to your day.
For those looking for something a little different, the museum is offering a special LATE sketching session from 6 pm to 8 pm. Guests will have the rare opportunity to explore the historic rooms after hours, capturing the essence of the space – and perhaps even their loved ones – on paper. A live guitarist will set the mood in Jimi Hendrix’s bedroom while attendees sip on a complimentary glass of Mateus Rosé – Hendrix’s favourite wine. Tickets for this unique experience are £20 and can be booked via the museum’s website.
A weekend of classical romance
The romantic melodies continue on Saturday in Handel’s Dining Room, where harpist Aileen Henry will enchant guests with beautiful compositions between 10 am and 12 pm, and again from 1 pm to 3 pm.
On Sunday, harpsichord player Nathaniel Mander will be joined by a singer to perform heartfelt arias between 1 pm and 3 pm, bringing a touch of Baroque elegance to the Valentine’s weekend. Both performances are included in the general admission ticket, making them a perfect cultural treat for music-loving couples or solo visitors alike.
A house with a story
The Handel Hendrix House is a treasure trove of musical history. Handel lived at 25 Brook Street from 1723 until his death in 1759, composing some of his most celebrated works, including Messiah and the rousing Hallelujah Chorus. The house now showcases restored rooms, period artwork, and immersive exhibitions that transport visitors back to the 18th century.
Fast forward to the swinging ’60s, and just next door at 23 Brook Street, Jimi Hendrix made his home. Describing it as the only place he ever truly felt at ease, Hendrix’s flat has been meticulously restored to its former glory, offering fans a glimpse into the life of the rock icon. The museum’s recent Hallelujah Project has expanded the Hendrix experience, allowing visitors to explore the stairways he once roamed and enjoy a cutting-edge audiovisual exhibition on his legendary guitar techniques and musical legacy.
Plan your visit
Handel Hendrix House is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm (last entry at 4 pm). Tickets are £14 for adults, £10 for students, and free for under-16s. They can be purchased online at www.handelhendrix.org or on the day at the museum. The nearest Tube station is Bond Street.
Whether you’re a rock ‘n’ roll romantic or a lover of classical charm, Bold As Love at Handel Hendrix House promises a truly special way to celebrate Valentine’s weekend.