As the warm weather graces the bustling streets of London, the city comes alive with a plethora of activities and attractions. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Check out our top picks below to make this summer season utterly unforgettable.
1. Wimbledon
Nothing captures the essence of summer like the tennis whites, strawberries and cream and Pimms of Wimbledon. If you missed out on tickets for the Wimbledon Tennis Championships (July 3-16) or prefer not to camp out for day tickets, no problem. The city will be peppered with big screens broadcasting matches in larger-than-life high-resolution glory!
This year, you can find screens in Coven Garden Market, Granary Square, St Katherine Docks and Canary Wharf.
2. Hampton Court Palace Flower Show
Explore the magnificent grounds of Hampton Court Palace during the annual flower show. Running from July 5-10, you’ll have the opportunity to admire stunning floral displays, gather gardening tips from experts, and indulge in the beauty of this historic royal palace.
The Hampton Court Palace Flower Show perfectly blends horticulture and history.
3. Regents Park Open-Air Theatre
Enjoy a memorable evening at the Regents Park Open Air Theatre, where a variety of performances take place throughout the summer. The outdoor theatre has a capacity of 1,240 seats and is set in the beautiful Queen Mary’s Gardens.
The season runs from 10 May to 16 September and includes Shakespearean classics to contemporary plays, this unique outdoor venue provides a delightful setting to enjoy theatre under the stars.
4. Buckingham Palace Summer Opening
Take advantage of the limited opportunity to explore the State Rooms of Buckingham Palace during the summer opening (July – September 2023).
Marvel at the opulent interiors, admire priceless works of art and gain insight into the lives of the British royal family. Immerse yourself in the regal surroundings and experience the grandeur of this iconic landmark. The royal celebrations just keep giving!
5. Summer by the Thames Festival
Join the Summer by the River Festival between June- September for a vibrant celebration of music, food, and culture set against the picturesque backdrop of the Thames.
Enjoy open-air concerts, outdoor cinema screenings, street food markets, and various workshops. But it doesn’t end there, live music performances to yoga classes and comedy shows, and more will be on offer to cater for all tastes.
6. Notting Hill Carnival
Saturday 26-28 August sees the return of the Notting Hill Carnival, bringing people back together to experience the electrifying atmosphere of Europe’s largest street festival.
Watch elaborate floats and costumed performers wind their way through the streets in the carnival parade, dance to the sound of steel bands and calypso music, and visit the tempting Caribbean food stalls along the route.
7. BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall
Now, whether you’re a die-hard classical music fan or you’re thinking, “Classical music? Not my thing,” the Proms has got you covered. Starting in July, their eight-week stretch of concerts has something for everyone.
Experience the power and beauty of orchestral performances, captivating soloists, and choral masterpieces at the Royal Albert Hall. We promise you won’t regret it.
8. Somerset House Summer Series
Somerset House Summer Series makes a comeback this July! For eleven nights, the stunning courtyard of Somerset House will transform into an intimate and immersive setting for some truly epic gigs.
Over the past 20 years, Summer Series has continually celebrated a wide range of diverse and eclectic genres, providing a platform for some of the most influential artists in today’s industry, whilst supporting the breakthroughs of many others.
9. Pride Parade
Get ready to celebrate love and equality at London’s Pride parade, happening on Saturday, July 1. The parade route will be starting off from Hyde Park and making its way down to Piccadilly Circus, before finally reaching Whitehall Place.
While the specific lineup of live acts and floats is yet to be announced, one thing is for sure: it’s going to be a spectacular showcase of creativity and joy. Based on previous years’ experiences, you can expect an array of talented performers, including singers, dancers, lip-syncers, and other fabulous entertainers.
10. Open-Air Cinema Screenings
During the summer months, several outdoor venues across London host open-air cinema screenings. From classic films to contemporary favourites, enjoy a movie in stunning locations such as Hyde Park, Canary Wharf, or the Luna Cinema in various parks and gardens throughout the city.