Sketch the city, one scene at a time.

Draw London

Draw London

Explore London through drawing on this full-day urban sketching workshop, open to all experience levels. Visit a range of central London locations and capture architecture, public spaces and everyday street scenes with guidance from an experienced tutor.

Through practical exercises, you’ll explore perspective, composition, tone and movement while developing your observational drawing skills. Bring your own sketchbook and pencils or use the materials provided, and finish the day with a varied collection of sketches inspired by the city.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS COURSE:

Discover London through drawing as you capture the city's energy, architecture and hidden details on the page.

  • Develop your observational drawing skills while exploring a variety of locations across London.
  • Experiment with different approaches to urban sketching in response to the city around you.
  • Learn to capture architecture, people and everyday street scenes with greater confidence.
  • Explore perspective, composition and mark-making through practical drawing exercises.
  • Fill your sketchbook with studies inspired by London's unique character and atmosphere.
  • Receive expert guidance and personalised feedback throughout the day.
  • Enjoy a creative day out with like-minded artists in a relaxed and supportive environment.
  • Leave inspired to continue sketching wherever you go.

Classes Starting Soon

Date Day Time (BST) Duration Tutor Venue Price Booking
13 Sep 2026
Sun
10:30-16:30
1 day
£89.00
17 Nov 2026
Tue
10:30-16:30
1 day
£89.00
15 Jan 2027
Fri
10:30-16:30
1 day
£89.00
07 Feb 2027
Sun
10:30-16:30
1 day
£89.00
21 Mar 2027
Sun
10:30-16:30
1 day
£89.00
13
Sep
13 Sep 2026
£89.00
Day:Sun
Time:10:30-16:30
Duration:1 day
Tutor: Tim Sanders
17
Nov
17 Nov 2026
£89.00
Day:Tue
Time:10:30-16:30
Duration:1 day
15
Jan
15 Jan 2027
£89.00
Day:Fri
Time:10:30-16:30
Duration:1 day
07
Feb
07 Feb 2027
£89.00
Day:Sun
Time:10:30-16:30
Duration:1 day
21
Mar
21 Mar 2027
£89.00
Day:Sun
Time:10:30-16:30
Duration:1 day
Urban Sketching

Draw from life as you explore London's streets, architecture, cafés and public spaces throughout the day.

Perspective and Composition

Learn practical techniques for simplifying complex scenes and creating balanced, engaging drawings.

Drawing from Observation

Develop your ability to capture people, places and architectural details through direct observation.

Sketchbook Practice

Build a sketchbook filled with studies, experiments and visual memories from across the city.

Tutor Demonstrations

Take part in warm-up exercises, practical demonstrations and guided drawing sessions at each location.

Expert Guidance

Benefit from one-to-one support and personalised feedback as you develop your drawing throughout the day.

Useful Information

Who is this course suitable for?
Perfect for all levels, from complete beginners to experienced artists. Whether you're new to drawing or looking to improve your sketching skills in an inspiring outdoor setting, you’ll be supported by a professional tutor throughout.
What will I learn on this course?
You will learn the fundamentals of drawing on location, including perspective and composition techniques as well as how to capturing light, shade, and texture. You'll work with pencil, pen, and other media and develop a sketchbook practice with new-found observational skills
Where does the course take place?
The course is held at various iconic London locations, such as the Southbank, Covent Garden, and the City. Please see the booking and timetable tab on this page for location and meeting point.
What happens if it rains?
In the event of bad weather, the tutor will choose a covered or indoor location nearby. Please check your email for any last-minute updates.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for walking and outdoor sketching. Weather-appropriate clothing and footwear are recommended, as sessions take place in various outdoor environments
Will I receive feedback on my work?
Yes, the tutor provides individual and group feedback during each session to help you improve your technique and confidence.
Do I need to bring my own materials?
All materials are provided on this course but if you like you are welcome to bring your own A4 or A3 hardback sketchbook with good quality cartridge or drawing paper (at least 180gsm). HB to 8B (2B and 6B are good) pencils, and a drawing pen. If you want to add some creative flair please bring along any preferred mediums such as watercolours or felt tips.

Want to learn more?

Continue developing your drawing skills with one of the courses below. Explore new techniques, tackle different subjects and keep growing your artistic practice with expert guidance.

Browse Courses

You can filter Courses by month and tutor

Date Day Time (BST) Duration Tutor Venue Price Booking
13 Sep 2026
Sun
10:30-16:30
1 day
£89.00
17 Nov 2026
Tue
10:30-16:30
1 day
£89.00
15 Jan 2027
Fri
10:30-16:30
1 day
£89.00
07 Feb 2027
Sun
10:30-16:30
1 day
£89.00
21 Mar 2027
Sun
10:30-16:30
1 day
£89.00
18 Apr 2027
Sun
10:30-16:30
1 day
£89.00
18 May 2027
Tue
10:30-16:30
1 day
£89.00
29 Jun 2027
Tue
10:30-16:30
1 day
£89.00
13
Sep
13 Sep 2026
£89.00
Day:Sun
Time:10:30-16:30
Duration:1 day
Tutor: Tim Sanders
17
Nov
17 Nov 2026
£89.00
Day:Tue
Time:10:30-16:30
Duration:1 day
15
Jan
15 Jan 2027
£89.00
Day:Fri
Time:10:30-16:30
Duration:1 day
07
Feb
07 Feb 2027
£89.00
Day:Sun
Time:10:30-16:30
Duration:1 day
21
Mar
21 Mar 2027
£89.00
Day:Sun
Time:10:30-16:30
Duration:1 day
18
Apr
18 Apr 2027
£89.00
Day:Sun
Time:10:30-16:30
Duration:1 day
18
May
18 May 2027
£89.00
Day:Tue
Time:10:30-16:30
Duration:1 day
29
Jun
29 Jun 2027
£89.00
Day:Tue
Time:10:30-16:30
Duration:1 day

Payments options

Cancellations Policy

Our cancellation policy depends on the course you have booked.

 

Weekly courses and one-day workshops
Cancel at least 72 hours before your course starts to receive a full refund, course credit or a free transfer to another available date. Cancellations made within 72 hours will receive course credit instead.

 

Intensive courses of five consecutive days or more
Cancel at least 7 days before your course starts to receive a full refund, course credit or a free transfer. Cancellations made with less than 7 days’ notice will usually receive course credit instead.

 

We are unable to offer refunds for missed classes or non-attendance.

Book 2 courses at the same time for 10% Off*

Book 3 or more courses for get 20% Off*

*Please note 2ORMORE & 3ORMORE - this offer cannot be redeemed against our One year, 3 Month Courses , Private tuition, Tasters, or Resident Companies i.e. Choirs, Musical Theatre or Dance companies. It cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Photoion Studio, Waterloo
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
Closest Station: Waterloo
Closest Bus Stop: Imperial War Museum / Elephant & Castle / Newington Causeway
Tim Sanders
Tim Sanders
Khaoula Karaweigh
Khaoula Karaweigh
City Academy Art Tutors
City Academy Art Tutors

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