88 things to do in London this summer (2026)

Top summer activities in London for the school holidays 2026

School's out! Which means there's a ton of exciting things to do in London this summer. This is your chance to have the ultimate adventure in the capital, tick off iconic landmarks and make memories at top attractions.

1. School's out! Discover plenty of fun things to do in London in summer for families. Top tip: Sightsee and save at top attractions with The London Pass.
2. Find the the best family attractions in the capital: Take your pick of cool museums for kids and action-packed adventures. Meet top celebs at Madame Tussauds or encounter fascinating wildlife at the London Zoo, home to roaring lions and playful penguins.
3. Tick off the capital's top 10 attractions: Enjoy family favourites Shrek's Adventure! London, SEA LIFE London Aquarium and the London Eye. Take a deep dive into British history by visiting iconic sights such as Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace.
4. Or see top sights on The Total London Experience: The popular day-long tour takes in key sights and includes a river trip to Greenwich. See top London attractions including historic St Paul's Cathedral and watch the famous Changing the Guard ceremony.
5. Experience Harry Potter's London: Relive the magic of the films at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter or be spellbound by Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Palace Theatre. Extend your stay in the wizarding world and visit Harry Potter filming locations, from Platform 9¾ at King's Cross to Leadenhall Market, the inspiration behind Diagon Alley.
6. Head to The Postal Museum for fun for all the family: Discover the first-ever postcard and learn how the postal system has revolutionised our lives. Ride the Mail Rail, which was used until recently to deliver mail to Londoners, and explore much more. 
7. Hop on the IFS Cloud Cable Car for a selfie with a backdrop: Travel through the London sky at sunset for perfect snaps. This summer in London, head to Greenwich Peninsula and enjoy a vibrant array of activities, from live jazz performances to mini golf and outdoor cinema nights. Don't miss The Turning Tides Festival returning to Greenwich in August, featuring acclaimed artists taking the stage.
8. Enjoy an exciting programme of London summer events at Battersea Power Station: Take the Lift 109 viewing platform for incomparable views and enjoy a wide range of events including live screenings of Wimbledon showcasing the best of tennis. 
9. Enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers: See iconic landmarks as you hop on and off London's river bus. Make sure to snap a selfie in front of Tower Bridge! Glide along the Thames all the way to Greenwich, London's royal borough, and discover life at sea by boarding the historic tea clipper, the Cutty Sark.
10. History buffs can get their fix at the Tower of London: Hear tales of torture and treachery from the Yeoman Warden's and their raven companions. Head to the White Tower, showcasing gleaming armour, and learn about the infamous Bloody Tower's most well-known resident, Sir Walter Raleigh.
11. Take on the terrifying London Dungeon: Discover London's scary history and meet some of the city's most gruesome characters, from Jack the Ripper to Sweeney Todd. Explore the eerie alleyways of the dungeons as you uncover the dark secrets lurking beneath London's streets.
12. Stand with a foot in each hemisphere at the Royal Observatory Greenwich: Visit the home of Greenwich Mean Time and the world-famous Meridian Line where you will find London's only planetarium.
13. Take a panoramic bus tour of London with Afternoon Tea aboard a double-decker bus and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea : As you cruise past London’s most famous landmarks, indulge in a delicious selection of sweet and savoury treats.Or find more ideas for fun afternoon tea tours in London.
14. Test your Tube driving skills at the London Transport Museum: Step into the driver's seat of iconic London buses as you explore the rich history of the city's public transport network. Discover vintage vehicles and learn how London's transportation system has evolved over time.
15. Try something new this summer in London: Grab your mates and enjoy these thrilling immersive experiences. Embark on a thrilling adventure in the mining town of Phantom Peak, where you will solve a series of mysteries while interacting with the townsfolk to collect clues, or step into the wonderful world of the Paddington Bear Experience and see some iconic locations from the movies while you help Paddington prepare for the Marmalade Day Festival.
16. Head to south London and immerse yourself in Tudor times at Hampton Court Palace: Discover where Henry VIII held court and explore the vast kitchens where 800 meals a day were prepared. Marvel at Henry's apartments before strolling through the elegant gardens and navigating the mysterious maze. 

Must-see summer events and festivals in London

1. August marks the return of the Greenwich+Docklands International Festival: Don't miss the London summer festival's opening show, and enjoy a programme of free outdoor performances. Dates TBC
2. Peninsula Summer, another vibrant festival in Greenwich, is a tradition not to be missed: The varied programme includes a variety of events and activities, from multicolour minigolf course, food trucks serving top-notch street food and live music. Dates TBC
3. Explore the Royal Academy of Arts’ Summer Exhibition: Experience an annual celebration of art and creativity, with more than 1,200 art pieces on show from print to sculptures, many from up-and-coming artists. Dates TBC
4. Don't miss show-stopping performances at BST Festival in Hyde Park: Last year's lineup included superstars Olivia Rodrigo, Zach Bryan, Noah Kahan, Sabrina Carpenter, Stevie Wonder and more. Dates TBC
5. See one of the prettiest parts of town at the Notting Hill Carnival, one the most popular things to do in London in summer: Dance to the sounds of steel bands, tuck into Caribbean jerk chicken and watch the colourful parade make its way through the streets of west London. Marvel at Brazilian and Mas bands parading, visit the live stages, and enjoy a fantastic lineup of artists ranging from local bands to superstars. 29-31 Aug
6. Celebrate London's LGBTQ+ community at the colourful Pride in London parade: Sing and dance along, as hundreds of floats wind their way through central London. Look out for a variety events taking place across London, from film screenings to talks and workshops, not to forget a sensational lineup of artists and performers taking the stage on Trafalgar Square. Keep a look out for Pride in London events. Dates TBC
7. Venture to Trafalgar Square to celebrate Canada Day in London: Fun for the whole family, tuck into classic Canadian dishes, including iconic poutine and lobster rolls, enjoy top entertainment from live performers and test your hockey playing skills at NHL Global Fan Tour. 1 Jul

Best London summer theatre shows for 2026

1. Book ahead for London's best musicals: Get The Lion King tickets London or enjoy must-see shows such as the Wicked musical and The Phantom of the Opera London.
2. Discover the best shows for kids this summer in London: Bring the kids to see their favourite Disney movies on stage including The Lion King Musical, or catch the award-winning RSC show Matilda The Musical – promise of a delightful afternoon full of belly laughs awaits.
3. Laugh out loud at the best comedy shows: See the unexpected in the uproarious The Play That Goes Wrong, where chaos reigns and props fly off the stage in a disastrous performance.
4. See the sensational Stranger Things: The First Shadow: This Netflix theatre prequel transports you back to 1959 Hawkins, where characters face new beginnings – until their past catches up with them
5. Don't miss the return of the sensational Kinky Boots the Musical, starring Johannes Radebe. Experience this Olivier Award-winning show, which tells the true story of Charlie Price, the owner of a struggling shoe business, who crosses paths with the fierce drag performer Lola. Together, they embark on a journey to redefine fashion.
6. Feel summer vibes at Mamma Mia! at the Novello Theatre: For one night, escape to Greece with this summertastic musical featuring all of your favourite ABBA songs. Or travel back to ABBA's golden days when you attend London's exclusive ABBA Voyage, an immersive concert featuring larger-than-life avatars of the band members.
7. See Les Misérables and experience the timeless tale of sacrifice and redemption at the Sondheim Theatre: Journey back to 19th-century post-revolutionary France and follow the gripping saga of Jean Valjean as he strives to evade the relentless Inspector Javert.
8. Join Marty McFly on an adventure of a lifetime in Back to the Future at the Adelphi Theatre: Embark on a thrilling journey through time with Marty and Doc in this electrifying West End show based on the iconic 1985 blockbuster film.
9. Step into the high-stakes world of fashion, media and runaways at the Dominion Theatre when watching the riveting musical adaptation of The Devil Wears Prada: With stunning outfits galore, Vanessa Williams portraying the iconic Miranda Priestley, and would-be journalist Andy rising to the challenge, what's not to like?
10. Witness the dazzling musical Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club: Step into the vibrant underground scene of 1930s Berlin in this electrifying immersive theatre experience at the Playhouse Theatre. Be captivated by jaw-dropping performances as the Kit Kat Club comes alive with a series of daring and unforgettable acts. 
11. See the beloved characters of Studio Ghibli come to life on stage in My Neighbour Totoro, now enchanting audiences at the Gillian Lynne Theatre: Experience the magic as breathtaking puppetry brings the forest spirits to life, with Totoro and friends stepping in to help two young sisters on their unforgettable adventure. And yes – fan-favourite Cat Bus makes a spectacular appearance, ready to whisk you away into this spellbinding world!

Looking for more London summer theatre inspiration? Check out our monthly recommendations for the best musicals and plays. 

Must-see exhibitions this summer in London

1. See artwork come to life before your very eyes at FRAMELESS: Travel beyond reality and into the worlds of famous artists such as Van Gogh, Rubens and Monet. Marvel as paintings evolve around you in a dynamic display this summer in London.
2. Discover the daring and the iconic at the Moco Museum: Explore works by world-famous artists in this exciting new gallery – plus, don’t miss our Visit London review for an exclusive peek inside this must-visit gallery.
3. Visit Kensington Palace, home to some members of the Royal Family: Follow in the footsteps of Princess Victoria and find out what life was like for her as a child before she became queen.
4. Join the highlights tour at the National Gallery and follow your guide through the museum's greatest collections. Hear fascinating stories about some of the world's best-known paintings, including Monet's Water Lilies and Turner's mesmerising landscapes.
5. Journey to outer space at the annual Astronomy Photographer of the Year at the National Maritime Museum: Immerse yourself in galaxies, suns and silver moons captured through the lens of exceptional photography. 
6. Head to the Design Museum for the long-awaited Wes Anderson: The Archives exhibition. Delve into the extensive collection, which showcases the filmmaker's earliest experiments from the 1990s to his most recent work. The collection includes over 600 objects, such as sketches, storyboards, notebooks, and puppets. Make sure to stop by the candy-pink model of the Grand Budapest Hotel and the vending machines used in Asteroid City! 21 Nov – 26 July
7. Visit the Greenwich Maritime Quarter and stop by the Old Royal Naval College. Explore Sir Christopher Wren's iconic riverside architecture and be sure to visit the Painted Hall, a masterpiece showcasing paintings of past kings and queens, as well as mythological creatures. It is frequently used as a filming location, appearing in Pirates of the Caribbean and The Crown, among many others.

Check our latest museum and gallery recommendations for more things to do in London this summer.

Top London summer days out

What better way to make the most of the warmer months than by enjoying memorable summer days out in London? Get together with friends and family and wander the city's lush green parks, uncover its top hidden gems on a guided tour, and dance the night away at its buzzing rooftop bars and pop-up London summer events.

1. Summer in London is the best time to spot roses in bloom at Kew Gardens: Wander the Great Broad Walk Borders and seek out colourful flower gardens. Don't miss the iconic Palm House, where lush tropical species thrive, and head to the treetop walkway for a panoramic 360-degree view, soaring 18 metres above ground.
2. Marvel at pretty city views on one of London’s best bus tours: Climb aboard a doubledecker Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour and take in city views before getting off at your favourite locations. Or indulge in a panoramic tour aboard the Bustronome to enjoy British cuisine with a gastronomic twist while taking in the sights of London.
3. Embark on an adrenaline-pumping Thames Rocket speedboat tour along the river Thames: Feel the rush of wind as you zip past London's iconic landmarks, taking in breathtaking views from a unique perspective. It's the perfect adventure for families and thrill-seekers alike and one of the most fun summer activities in London.
4. Explore the city on foot with a guided walking tour of London: Discover the city's hidden gems like the Underground secret tunnels, unleash your inner foodie with a visit to Borough Market, delve into movie filming locations at the Old Royal Naval College or explore royal hotspots.
5. See the variety of exotic animals at London Zoo by Regent's Park: Encounter meerkats, penguins, lions and more up close. Extend your visit with Zoo Nights, an exclusive experience after hours. Join knowledgeable guides for insights into wildlife before indulging in delicious specialties from around the world at the Wild Bites street food market (adults-only event).
6. Get some of the best uninterrupted views in London in summer: Get your adrenaline fix as you scale new heights with the Up at The O2 overlooking the financial district Canary Wharf. Alternatively, venture to north London and ascend the roof of the football fans' favorite, Dare Skywalk at Tottenham Stadium.
7. Check out the top London summer date ideas: Whether it's a romantic spot for a first date or a fun outdoor experience to enjoy together, there's something for everyone. Watch a captivating play under the stars at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, or discover exquisite views of London's skyline at Sky Garden, complete with live music on select nights.
8. Explore the Kyoto Garden in Holland Park: Relax in the picturesque Japanese garden with its vibrant plants and soothing water features. Walk around the peaceful pond filled with colourful Japanese koi carps and and keep an eye out for the majestic peacocks that gracefully roam the gardens.
9. Grab a blanket and your best picnic hamper before heading to the city’s leafy parks: Find the perfect spot to sunbathe and have a go on a pedalo in Hyde Park, or wander through Richmond Park to spot the resident deer roaming freely.
10. Take a breath of fresh air outside of London's bustling centre: Treat your kids to endless fun at Hobbledown, home to one of the largest indoor play areas, where they can meet adorable furry friends like goats, meerkats and capybaras. Connect with nature at Walthamstow Wetlands, a vast nature reserve boasting tranquil reservoirs perfect for observing a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. 
11. Have a day pumped up with adrenaline at Thorpe Park as you go on thrill-seeking rides: Test the limits of reality on the Ghost Train before hoping on the UK's fastest ride, Stealth. 
12. Make a splash when the mercury rises: Taking a dip in one of the city’s azure-blue lidos is one of the best things to do in the summer. Experience the thrill of swimming at London's only heated outdoor pool at London Fields Lido, or challenge yourself with a dive into one of London's longest lanes, stretching 60 metres at Parliament Hill Lido. Venture to Hampstead Heath and enjoy wild swimming in the leafy surroundings of the bathing ponds.
13. Snuggle up during a summer film at one of London’s great outdoor cinemas: Check out Rooftop Film Club’s iconic venues, or hop in the car for a drive-in cinema experience. 
14. Hop on your bike and ride some of London's best cycle paths: Discover the hidden corners of London while on the Secret London Bike Tour. Follow your guide along the scenic river Thames, making stops to uncover the fascinating history of the capital. 
15. Walk up Primrose Hill for sweeping views of Regent’s Park and the London skyline: For the perfect shot, don’t miss the William Blake quote etched into the stone at the top: “I have conversed with the spiritual sun. I saw him on Primrose Hill.”

Best London summer food and drink

1. Make the most of the long London summer evenings at The View from The Shard: Sip on champagne cocktails at London's tallest attraction. Indulge in a fine dining experience at one of The Shard's restaurants, such as TĪNG and its modern cuisine with an Asian twist, or Hutong, boasting flavours of northern China. Stop at Aqua Shard on the 31st floor, a contemporary British restaurant with spectacular views over London. 
2. Discover some of the city’s best rooftop bars for sunset drinks: Experience killer views from The Nest at Treehouse London Hotel, or catch the sunset over St Paul's Cathedral from Madison's rooftop bar. Alternatively, head to Shoreditch and visit the trendy Queen of Hoxton, an oasis nestled between buildings, renowned for its eclectic events and creative cocktails.
3. Sit outside and enjoy a meal in the London summer sunshine: Experience some of London's best alfresco restaurants. Enjoy a set of delightful French flavours at penthouse and rooftop restaurant Coq d'Argent, or elevate your dining experience at Sushisamba London, where colourful Japanese-Brazilian-Peruvian-fusion cuisine reigns supreme from the 38th and 39th floors of the Heron Tower.
4. Hop aboard a boat and indulge in a London Dinner Cruise: Savour a four-course meal as you take in the sights from the Thames. Enjoy stunning views of landmarks such as Big Ben and Tower Bridge as you dine, making for an unforgettable evening on the Thames.
5. Feast on all things Italian at Eataly in Broadgate: Explore the market for authentic products from all regions of Italy, including fresh focaccia and prosciutto. Enjoy wood-fired pizzas and antipasti at one of three restaurants, or take your culinary skills to the next level with a cooking class, where you can learn to make fresh pasta, sourdough pizza and tiramisù.
6. Eat your way through the best food markets in London this summer: Devour steaming ramen and other street food delights at a former church turned food market Mercato Mayfair. Enjoy street food bites from KERB traders at Seven Dials Market, or head to Mercato Metropolitano, featuring food counters from around the globe.
7. On weekends, visit the colourful Maltby Street Market: Find a mix options all in one place from crepes, Mexican empanadas, banh mi, cheese toasties and many more mouthwatering options.
8. Head to Lost in Brixton and satisfy all your cravings with food from downstairs Brixton Village: Chill with a local beer or a colourful spritzer while waiting for your food to be brought straight to your table. Who said you couldn't have it all? 
9. Craving some pastries? Explore London's little French corner: Aux Pains de Papy delights Londoners with its award-winning croissants, traditional pastries and crusty baguettes. Discover the oldest patisserie in London, Maison Bertaux, nestled in the heart of Soho, offering a tempting selection of fruit tarts and chocolate éclairs. Indulge in the soft chocolate brioche or shiny, airy meringues coated with chocolate cream from Aux Merveilleux de Fred, an artisanal pastry shop that's well worth the detour.
10. Head to London’s theatreland and step into Brumus at the Haymarket Hotel, a stylish British brasserie serving up the London Calling Afternoon Tea: Indulge in a selection of freshly made sweet and savoury treats, including beautifully crafted cakes and pastries inspired by the city’s most famous landmarks – from the London Eye to Big Ben and Trafalgar Square. After tea, set off on a self-guided tour of Haymarket and its top sights with a specially curated guide, letting you explore London’s iconic streets at your own pace.

Enjoy a London summer of sport

1. Experience the thrill and elegance of Royal Ascot, the highlight of the summer racing calendar: From world-class horse racing to high fashion, this prestigious event is all about style, spectacle and excitement. Watch as ladies proudly wear their finest feather fascinators, sip champagne and soak up the electric atmosphere. 16-20 Jun
2. Don't miss The Wimbledon Championships, where the world's tennis icons take to centre court at one of the most famous London summer sporting events: Experience incredible matches and entertainment at this action-packed event. If you haven't secured a coveted ticket, join the morning queue for a chance to purchase a ground pass and enjoy the excitement from the outer courts. 29 Jun-12 Jul
3. Live the ultimate football fan dream at Wembley Stadium: Embark on a guided tour of England's national stadium. Explore the grounds, visit the players' changing rooms and envision the legends who walked through the tunnel onto the pitch. 
4. The London Athletics Meet is back at the London Stadium, bringing some of the biggest stars from the Paris Olympics to the track for more record-breaking performances: As part of the Wanda Diamond League series, this action-packed event features a full programme of thrilling track and field competitions – from long jump and hurdles to pole vault and more. 18 Jul
5. Calling all racing fans as the 2025 London E-Prix crowns this season's champions at Excel London: See teams go wheel-to-wheel when the ABB FIA Formula E Championship comes to the Royal Docks this summer, exhibiting the best of sustainable motor sports. Beyond the track, there’s plenty to enjoy at the Fan Village, from catching the action on the big screen with live commentary to testing your driving skills in the Gaming Arena. Get ready for an electrifying weekend of high-speed excitement! 15-16 Jul
6. Venture to the Kia Oval and Lord's Cricket Ground: Enjoy a season of incredible local and international cricket. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to the sport, this is your chance to experience the passion and excitement of cricket at its finest.

Water-themed summer activities in London

1. Hop aboard a riverboat for a relaxing cruise along the river Thames: Take in iconic sights as you journey from Westminster to Canary Wharf, passing under the world-famous Tower Bridge on one of City Cruises' London river tours.
2. Fill your Instagram feed with snaps of Little Venice’s charming canal: Stroll along the Regent’s Canal towards Camden and Regent’s Park, or float down the waterways on a canal boat. Admire the houseboats as you glide down the canal and enjoy unique waterside scenery that make this area a must-visit spot in London in summer.
3. Chill out in the sunshine at one of the hip drinking spots close to Camden Market: If you’re feeling peckish, browse the tasty bites on offer at the market's food stalls. End the day at the Jazz Cafe, where both up-and-coming musicians and jazz legends take the stage.
4. Soak up the sun in a floating hot tub with Skuna Boats: Wave at passers-by while cruising down some of London’s canals from Canary Wharf. For a unique dining experience, hop aboard your private Skuna BBQ Boat and grill burgers, kebabs and more (food packages available to buy, or bring your own).
5. Unleash your adventurous side in London this summer: Explore Hammersmith or Richmond during a stand-up paddle boarding session with Active 360 on the river Thames. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, this is the perfect way to experience the Thames.
6. Explore central London and kayak on the Thames on a guided tour with the London Kayak Company: Experience the capital like never before as you follow your guide paddling past historic landmarks. 
7. Enjoy London summer drinks by the river: Sip on a craft beer from Hackney’s trendy canalside microbrewery Crate, or head to one of the riverside pubs and bars lining South Bank.

Shopping in London in the summer

1. Spend a day perusing the 160 luxury-brand boutique outlets of Bicester Village: Enjoy some retail therapy just a short train ride away from London.
2. Head to elegant Regent Street for world-class dining, lifestyle and shopping this summer in London: Discover high-street fashion brands like Burberry, Kate Spade and Mango, plus there are plenty of independent shops to discover on the side streets.
3. Don't miss Bond Street in Mayfair: Head to the home to ultra-luxury fashion just around the corner from Oxford Street.
4. Or hop around artisan shops and boutiques in St James's: Explore the historic area known for high-end fashion and numerous stores with the Royal Warrant.
5. Explore vibrant Carnaby Street: Ideal for fashion lovers looking for concept stores, designer clothes, trendy footwear and colourful shopfronts. If you’re not in a retail-therapy mood, there is also plenty of food to enjoy from Carnaby’s restaurants.
6. Take a wander in the piazza at Covent Garden: A foodie paradise and one of the best shopping destinations in London's West End. Look for classy items in the market while being soothed by the sound of opera singers performing. Then stroll around Seven Dials, where independent boutiques, classy cafes and picturesque courtyards collide. 
7. Stop by Coal Drops Yard in King's Cross: Shop for niche brands and enjoy a latte and cakes at its many cafes. 
8. Peruse London’s top markets: Find food, flowers, modern art, clothes and more.
9. Rummage through charity shops and the city’s best vintage fashion shops: London is a temple for secondhand fashion and hidden shopping gems.

If you’re still hungry for more things to do this summer in London, find top tips for things to do this weekend and things to do today. Or find on-the-go ideas by downloading the Visit London app.