This is a post about things to do in London in the summer.
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One of my favourite things about living in Europe (as someone coming from Brazil, where we’ve got roughly two seasons!), is to live seasonally. Winter can be a bit difficult, especially Jan/Feb after the holidays, but every season has something special. I actually write a lot of seasonal guides here because I love it so much! Autumn hikes for gorgeous fall foliage, best beaches near London to enjoy in the summer, flower fields for spring, cosy winter weekend getaways and more.
So now that spring has sprung and people start looking forward to summer, I thought I’d put together this bucket list of things to do in London in the summer.
Quick Guide: How to Use This London Summer Bucket List
Summer in London is full of long, sunny days, vibrant streets and cultural events. Use this list to plan your itinerary:
- Plan by neighbourhoods: Group sights into areas like Southbank, Westminster and East London to save travel time.
- Pre-book tickets: The city gets BUSY! Attractions like the Shard, Kew Gardens and river cruises can sell out in summer.
- Mix iconic and hidden gems: Balance must-see landmarks with quieter spots for the best experience.
- Use public transport or cycle: The Tube, buses, Santander Cycles or river taxis save time and energy.
- Pack smart: Light layers, sunscreen, comfortable shoes and an umbrella are summer essentials.
READ MORE: Best Day Trips from London by Train or Group Tours (2026)
London Summer Bucket List
Take in the View from the Shard
London’s tallest building offers sweeping 360° city views. Sunset is magical as the city lights start to twinkle and the Thames reflects the evening sky. Combine your visit with Borough Market for a full day of sightseeing and culinary treats.
Affiliate tip: Book [Shard tickets via GetYourGuide] to skip lines and secure your preferred time slot.
Picnic in Hyde Park
Hyde Park is ideal for a relaxing summer afternoon. Bring a blanket, snacks and a frisbee or book. Rent a pedal boat on the Serpentine for a fun twist. Nearby cafes are perfect if you prefer to travel light.
Alternatively, Regents Park/Primrose Hill are also excellent choices!
Visit Columbia Road Flower Market
This Sunday-only market is a riot of colours and fragrances. Early arrival is key to avoid crowds. Combine it with nearby Shoreditch or Spitalfields for a vibrant morning of shopping, great food and street art.
Wander Kew Gardens
Summer is peak bloom season at Kew Gardens. Walk the treetop walkway, visit the Palm House and explore the Waterlily House. A half-day visit lets you enjoy the highlights without rushing.
You can pre-book your tickets here.
Take a Thames River Cruise
Experience London from the water. See Tower Bridge, the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament from a relaxing river cruise. Evening cruises include drinks and sunset views.
You can reserve your spot here on the trusted Viator website – I usually book my experiences either on Viator or GetYourGuide!
Explore Notting Hill
Colourful streets, boutique shops and quirky cafes make Notting Hill perfect for a morning stroll. Stop by Portobello Market for antiques and fresh produce (the full market is on Fridays and Saturdays. Can you believe I got a Tiffany heart locker there for TWO POUNDS?!).
Pair your visit with brunch at a local café. There are so many! If you stretch to Westbourne Grove, I highly recommend the pricey but VERY delicious praline pancakes from Sunday in Brooklyn.
Don’t forget to grab a treat from buns from home!
Discover Hidden (or Not!) Roof Gardens
London has several secret rooftop bars and gardens offering skyline views. Perfect for evening cocktails or a quiet escape from the crowds.
Sky Garden
One of the most famous “hidden” spots (even though it’s not hidden anymore). It’s a lush indoor garden at the top of a skyscraper with panoramic views over the Thames. The best part? It’s free but you must book in advance.
Tip: Go early morning or just before sunset for the best light.
The Garden at 120
A true hidden gem and completely free. It’s quieter than Sky Garden and gives you close-up views of the Walkie Talkie building. There are benches, plants and plenty of space to relax.
Tip: Great midday stop when you’re exploring the City of London.
Queen of Hoxton Rooftop
This one changes theme every season; think summer beach setups, cosy winter lodges or themed bars. It’s more of a social vibe with drinks, music and events.
Tip: Go in the evening for a lively atmosphere.
Frank’s Café (Peckham)
A bit more off-the-beaten-path, but worth it. Think pink staircases, artsy vibes and one of the best sunset views in South London.
Tip: Pair it with a Peckham explore day for a less touristy experience.
Madison Rooftop (St Paul’s)
Right next to St Paul’s Cathedral, this rooftop bar gives you one of the best iconic views in London. It’s more polished and slightly pricey, but perfect for a “main character” summer evening. Reservations required.
If you’re visiting London and looking for a place to stay in the City of London/Tower of London area, citizenM is a great mid-budget option. Some rooms actually overlook the Tower of London!! Imagine waking up to that view!
Watch Open-Air Theatre or Summer Concerts
From Shakespeare in the Park to Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, outdoor performances are a summer highlight. Bring a blanket and snacks and arrive early for the best seats.
Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
This is the classic. You’re literally watching theatre surrounded by trees and the vibe is unmatched on a warm evening. The summer season usually includes a mix of Shakespeare, musicals and new productions (think A Midsummer Night’s Dream or even big names like Cats). It runs from May through September, so there’s plenty of choice.
Somerset House Summer Series
This is one of the best summer music events in London. A series of open-air concerts held in the courtyard of Somerset House, usually across 10–11 nights in July, with a mix of indie, soul and international artists.
The setting is what makes it special: intimate, central and surrounded by historic architecture.
Tip: These sell out fast, so book early.
Kenwood House Concerts (Hampstead Heath)
A bit more relaxed and slightly less touristy. These are outdoor concerts set against the backdrop of Kenwood House, often featuring classical music, film scores or well-known artists. Bring a picnic, a blanket and lean into the wholesome summer energy.
Open-air theatre pop-ups (like Hampstead Heath & touring productions)
Throughout summer, you’ll find smaller productions popping up in parks and gardens; think travelling theatre companies doing Shakespeare or family-friendly shows. They’re usually cheaper, more casual and feel very “local London”.
Trafalgar Square performances and events
Trafalgar Square occasionally hosts free open-air performances, especially in summer. Things like cultural festivals (like Canada Day on 1 July!), dance showcases and even live classical music events (like orchestras performing in the square). These are great if you want something spontaneous and budget-friendly.
BST Hyde Park
And, of course, one of London’s biggest summer events, BST Hyde Park. Watch some of the biggest bands play outdoors in the middle of gorgeous Hyde Park. It’s pricey but worth it. You can also sit just outside the barriers and enjoy the show. I’ve done both!
Explore Street Art in Shoreditch
Take a walking tour to see murals and learn about the artists. East London is a street art hotspot and it’s also filled with cafes, bars and independent shops to explore between stops.
Indulge at Borough Market
Taste the best of London’s seasonal produce, artisanal foods, viral foods and street eats. Summer brings fresh fruit, outdoor stalls (and bigger crowds, but don’t let that put you off!). Pair it with a visit to the nearby Shard or Southbank for a full-day adventure.
Take a Day Trip to Greenwich
Greenwich combines history, riverside walks and scenic parks. Visit the Royal Observatory, the Cutty Sark and the Maritime Museum. Summer afternoons are perfect for walking along the Thames Path. And remember: best sunset views in town during the summer months!
Book a Greenwich tour with Viator for the full experience.
Attend a Summer Festival
London hosts dozens of summer festivals including music, food and art events. Check local listings and book tickets in advance to avoid missing out.
Cycle Around the City
Hire Santander Cycles and explore one of London’s best neighbourhoods like Camden, Hampstead or West London by the river. Cycling gives flexibility to explore off-the-beaten-path spots and make spontaneous stops.
Watch the Sunset from Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill offers one of the city’s most iconic skyline views. Perfect for sunset picnics or photography. Combine with dinner in nearby Camden for a full evening.
Explore the Southbank
The first summer we were allowed out during covid, one of my best memories is walking down the Southbank and seeing so many people out enjoying the warm evening, that gorgeous pink and purple dusk just as the sun had set…you could feel how happy people were during such a difficult time. The Southbank is also one of my favourite places in London! When I get tired of the city for any reason (it happens to the best of us!), I just need to walk around there and remind myself how lucky I am to live here; 16-year-old me couldn’t be prouder!
Street performers, pop-up bars, riverside walks and cultural attractions make Southbank lively in summer. Stop at the Hayward Gallery or Tate Modern for art breaks along the route.
Visit the Victoria & Albert Museum Gardens
These gardens are a hidden oasis, ideal for a midday break or quiet summer reading. The museum is free and offers seasonal exhibitions.
Don’t forget to pop in to the gorgeous cafe round the back:
Try a Rooftop Pool or Bar
Hotels like The Curtain or The Ned offer pools and bars with skyline views. Perfect for summer evenings.
Explore Little Venice
A canalside neighbourhood with waterside cafes and boat tours. Spend a summer afternoon wandering the paths or taking a canal boat to Camden. Or simply take the walk from Little Venice all the way to Regents Park via the canal – it’s gorgeous this time of year!
Watch Outdoor Cinema
Pop-ups like Rooftop Film Club and Luna Cinema show classics and recent blockbusters under the stars. Summer evenings are perfect for pairing movies with drinks.
Take a Food Tour
Sample fresh street food and local delicacies. Guided tours of Borough Market, Shoreditch or Soho highlight hidden culinary gems and insider tips.
Visit Hampton Court Palace
Explore the gardens, maze and Tudor kitchens. Summer exhibitions and outdoor areas make it a full-day trip.
You can book your tickets in advance here to avoid selling out. Summer gets super busy, especially during school holidays!
Enjoy a West End Show
Evening theatre is magical in summer. Book popular shows like Hamilton or The Lion King in advance to secure tickets.
I highly recommend The Book of Mormon – it’s SO FUNNY!
Go to a Summer Street Festival
Loads of different neighbourhoods have street parties and festivals in the summer! Marylebone, Hampstead, Primrose Hill…there’s always something happening. Check local listings and plan transport ahead.
Take a Day Trip to Richmond or Hampstead Heath
Escape the city with riverside walks, hills and sunset views. Perfect for summer evenings or weekend escapes.
You can check out my guide to some of the best walking routes in London for this time of year.
Travel Tools & Tips for Your Trip
Here are some direct links to help you book your experiences:
Tip: Pre-book popular attractions to save time and secure your spot. Bring water, sunscreen and wear comfortable shoes for long summer days.
This is a post about things to do in London in the summer.
