Things to do in London this summer

The stress of London life seems to magically melt away when the sun comes out. You'd think you were transported to a sunny beach town from the way the collective mood lifts. The only worry is how often you can get to a park with a drink in hand. The good vibes also come from the exciting events and activities across the city in the summer months.

Here are some suggestions for your London summer bucket list.

How to spend a day in the sunshine

London Open Gardens

If you appreciate nature and are a little bit nosy, you'll love the London Open Gardens tour running this summer. From private green spaces in picturesque neighbourhoods to the gardens at 10 Downing Street, the tours grant access to some of the most exclusive gardens in London.

Book tickets to specific gardens or reserve a spot on a guided tour to learn more about the importance of urban green spaces from the London Parks & Gardens team. The event raises money for the charity's initiatives to protect London's natural environment.

On from 7–8 June

Various locations | londongardenstrust.org

Trafalgar Tavern

Finding a pub with outdoor seating is a top priority on a sunny day. The sprawling riverside seating at the Trafalgar Tavern is the ultimate place to soak up the sun with a pint. Nothing says British Summer Time like enjoying fish and chips with a Pimm's lemonade or a cold pint sitting by the Thames.

Greenwich, SE10 | trafalgartavern.co.uk

Outdoor activities at Osterley Park

London has hundreds of historic sites, but Osterley Park offers both an elegant stately home and adventurous outdoor activities. Give canoeing a try on Middle Lake or rent bikes to cycle through the beautiful estate. If you're looking to meet new people, join a Parkrun group to bond with fellow London runners.

Head to the Stables Cafe or the Brewhouse Ice Cream Parlour for a post-workout treat.

On from April to September

Middlesex, TW7 | nationaltrust.org.uk

Live performances

Shakespeare in the Garden by Open Bar Theatre

For a very unique pub experience, book tickets to one of Open Bar Theatre's Shakespeare in the Garden performances. This summer, Fuller's pubs will host productions of A Midsummer Night's Dream in their gardens to offer patrons a dramatic accompaniment to their usual pub nights. The casual, immersive productions make the centuries-old play come to life and introduce younger audiences to Shakespeare's work.

Various locations | fullers.co.uk

Little Women at Richmond Theatre

The beloved tale of sisterhood, Little Women, takes the stage in Richmond this summer. Screenwriter Anne-Marie Casey has transformed Louisa May Alcott's classic novel into a heartfelt live production, taking inspiration from the recent film adaptation. The performances take place at the historic Richmond Theatre, a beautiful setting for a cherished story to unfold.

On from 3–7 June

Richmond, TW9 | visitrichmond.co.uk

Summer Jazz Series at the Barbican

There's nothing dreamier than jazz music on a summer evening, and this year, Londoners will be treated to performances from some of the very best jazz performers at Barbican Hall. Headlining the series is the legendary Herbie Hancock, who played in the Miles Davis Quintet. Other performers include Brad Mehldau, with his jazz reimaginings of pop songs, and the All-Stars Memphis Soul Revue, bringing American soul music to London.

On from 16 June to 26 July

Barbican, EC2Y | barbican.org.uk

Alexandra Palace summer season concerts

Summer means plenty of amazing concerts will take place throughout the city, but one of the most unique venues is the outdoor stage at Alexandra Palace. Set against the London skyline, the summer concert series pairs the spectacular view with some of your favourite artists. You can book tickets to see The Teskey Brothers, The Black Keys, Alex Warren, and Leon Bridges.

On from 10–19 July

Haringey, N22 | alexandrapalace.com

London summer festivals

Raindance Film Festival

You've probably heard of the famous Sundance Film Festival, but did you know London has its own version? The aptly named Raindance Film Festival celebrates independent filmmaking in the UK and includes screenings, discussions with filmmakers, and prizes awarded to the best films of the year. Events are held at various venues throughout the West End.

On from 18 – 25 June

Various locations | raindance.org

London Sports Festival

If you're looking to take up a sport this summer, the London Sports Festival is the perfect way to try your hand at something new. You can book slots to play pickleball, padel, table tennis, football, and more at pop-up courts throughout the city.

There is a free activation event at the London Guildhall on 22nd to 23rd May, where you can get a taste of the festivities to come and enjoy live music and food vendors.

On from 22 May to 26 October

Various locations | londonsportsfestival.com

Hampstead Summer Festival

One of London's loveliest neighbourhoods will hold its annual summer art festival featuring local artists, with events at one of the most beautiful and historical sites in Hampstead. Keats House, the home of the Romantic poet John Keats, is a fitting setting for celebrating a new generation of artists. The House will host an art fair, an open-air production of Vanity Fair, and a family garden party.

The festival culminates in the Big Fair on Heath Street that draws over 100 local craft and food vendors.

Hampstead, NW3 | hampsteadsummerfestival.com

Pride in London 2025

March in the parade that makes its way across central London or take to bars and clubs in Soho, Dalston, and across the city to celebrate Pride. There will be a host of stages across Zone 1 to support LGBTQIA+ performers, DJ nights, drag shows, parties, and celebrations galore!

On Saturday, 5 July

Various locations | Pride in London

Looking for more things to do in London this summer? Check out our blogs on summer music festivals and gigs in the city.

Editor's note: Spot any incorrect information? Or have an article idea for HeadBox.com? Get in touch at submissions@headbox.com