London transforms into a vibrant playground during the summer, offering an eclectic mix of activities that cater to all tastes and interests.
From outdoor festivals and cultural events to scenic parks and adventurous excursions, the city buzzes with energy and excitement. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Dive into the heart of London’s summer scene and explore the myriad of events and attractions that make the city come alive under the sun.
We’ve listed some great events below.
June
Heritage Summer – From 15 June
Step into the London Heritage Quarter this summer for an unforgettable journey through history, art, and celebration! Commemorating the National Gallery’s 200th anniversary, immerse yourself in a world of artistic wonder with special exhibitions, interactive experiences, and captivating events showcasing centuries of masterpieces. Find out more about our free ‘Journey Through Time’ trail, Art in The Sky Flags, walking tour, and lunch & learn event here.
Journey Through Time Trail – 15 June to 14 August
Embark on a trail of innovation and creativity from Victoria to Strand, passing through Westminster and Whitehall. Visit 11 London-themed sculptures, painted by artists from the London art agency, Artiq. Each sculpture is linked to augmented reality, exploring London’s rich heritage and vibrant evolution. Download a map here. Enter our competition to win a bottomless Afternoon Tea at Conrad London St. James by sharing a photo on Instagram and tagging @LondonHeritageQuarter and #HeritageSummer.
Euros 2024 – 14 June to 14 July
Many locations across London Heritage Quarter are screening the Euros and offering special deals.
Get a Pizza and Beer Bundle from Blue Orchid Hotels, or catch all the games at bbar and indulge with exclusive pre-order packages. Five Guys are also offering free delivery on Just Eat for the duration of the tournament. Get amongst the atmosphere by watching the games at Greenwood Victoria or Lane7. You can also watch live screenings for free at The RSA.
Discover more venues to watch the tournaments and benefit from their offers here.
West End Live – 22 & 23 June
Step into the dazzling world of musical theatre at West End LIVE, a spectacular event that brings the best of London’s West End to Trafalgar Square. For one weekend only, immerse yourself in show-stopping performances from your favorite musicals, all for free! This annual celebration features live acts from the most popular productions, giving you a front-row seat to the magic of the West End.
Pride in London – 30 June
Experience Pride in London, a vibrant celebration of love, diversity, and inclusivity. This annual event brings together people from all walks of life to honor the LGBTQ+ community and advocate for equality and acceptance. The festivities kick off with the iconic Pride Parade, a spectacular procession through the heart of London, showcasing dazzling floats, colorful costumes, and inspiring messages of unity.
Taylor Swift Themed Lunch at Gaucho – Selected dates in June and August
Are you a Swiftie? If so, this is an event you certainly won’t want to miss. For the first time ever, Gaucho is hosting a Taylor Swift inspired brunch for £70 pp + service charge. The ‘Taylor’s Version’ menu includes some of the singer’s favourite dishes like buttermilk fried chicken tenders. There are also many Swift-inspired drinks to choose from, such as Midnight Martini and the Cruel Summer Cosmo. Find out more here.
July
Wimbledon – 1 to 14 July
You can watch The Championships for free in The Garden at Cardinal Place, The RSA and in Eccleston Yards. Many local businesses have Wimbledon-inspired offers, like a themed menu at Saison at Raffles London at The OWO and ‘Sweet Serve’ themed desserts and pastries at The Rubens at The Palace.
Discover more live screenings and offers here.
LHQ Hub App Launches – 4 July
Download our brand-new app from Apple or Google Play Stores by searching for “LHQ Hub.” Those who work, live, study or stay in London Heritage Quarter can redeem exclusive offers, explore walking trails, and discover upcoming events. By downloading the app, you can also enter a competition to win a gaming session at Flight Club Victoria for up to 12 people, with Prosecco and nibbles.
Nova Sundowner Sessions – 4 July to 29 August
Every Thursday from 5pm, experience live music with the Nova Sundowner Sessions presented by Landsec. A variety of talented DJ’s and musicians will play summer tunes and the events are free to attend. To guarantee the best seats, book a table at one of the Nova restaurants.
Somerset House Summer Series – 11 to 21 July
Somerset House Summer Series with American Express returns in July 2024 with eleven nights of unmissable gigs in the intimate and immersive setting of our spectacular courtyard. A staple summer experience, the series presents a trailblazing line-up of breakthrough music artists and established acts from across the globe. Book Tickets
World Rum Day at Great Scotland Yard Hotel – 13 July
Celebrate with a World Rum Day Masterclass at Great Scotland Yard Hotel, which pairs an extensive rum selection with Latin dishes and music. Book tickets here.
Friday Lates Comedy Performances at the National Gallery – 19 July
Three rising comedians will deliver art themed stand-up performances in front of paintings that have been an inspiration to their sets. Hasan Al-Habib, Pravanya Pillay and John Tothill will display their unique takes on 17th-century Dutch paintings by artists such as Frans Hals and Judith Leyster. It’s free to attend but booking is advised. Find out more here.
‘An evening with Ed Balls’ at The RSA – 22 July
Enjoy a night with former Cabinet Minister, broadcaster and podcaster Ed Balls, hosted at the Royal Society of Arts. Savour a delicious 3 course meal curated by chef Jose Pizarro, followed by a conversation with Ed Balls and The RSA’s CEO, Andy Haldane. Tickets are available here.
National Tequila Day at Great Scotland Yard Hotel – 24 July
Great Scotland Yard Hotel are hosting a National Tequila Day Masterclass, featuring live Mexican music, a tasting experience and regional delicacies. Book your tickets here.
Minerva Exhibition at Mall Galleries – 24 to 27 July
Mall Galleries welcomes back Japanese artists representing the art scene today. 250 distinguished artists showcase their contemporary Japanese paintings, Western paintings, carvings, calligraphy, photography, NFT art and sculptures. Free admission and no booking required. Find out more here.
August
Summer in the Courtyard – 1 to 31 August
A series of free and affordable events and activities running throughout the summer holidays at Somerset House with community and family at its heart. Find out more
Summer on the Square – 1 August to 1 September
The National Gallery are hosting free creative sessions and activities on Trafalgar Square for families everyday throughout summer until 1 September, in partnership with Westminster City Council. Create, collaborate and celebrate, work together as a family, perhaps with other families too, and see what you can make. See the schedule.
RSA Kids Club Holiday Screenings – 12, 19 & 27 August, from 1pm
Treat the little ones to family favourite films this month. The RSA will be showing Cloudy with a chance of meatballs, Mary Poppins (1964), Shaun the sheep: Farmageddon in the Durham Street Auditorium during the school holidays and enjoy films for all the family – for free! Enjoy freshly popped popcorn for all too. See a full list of events here.
STRETCH: Fitness & Wellness Classes in Eccleston Yards – 12 to 20 August
Enjoy a programme of fitness and wellness classes in Eccleston Yards in Belgravia. Visitors are invited to stretch their minds and bodies with a series of exclusive classes and experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, STRETCH is designed to leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. Find out more.
Tony Birch and Dorothea Smartt in Conversation at The RSA – 15 August
The RSA will welcome Brit-born Bajan performance artist and poet, Dorothea Smartt in conversation with leading literary luminaries Tony Birch. This is an Edinburgh International Book Festival Preview, in partnership with the Royal Society of Literature. Find out more.
Creation Family Fun: Nature Tales – 16 & 19 August 10am-12 pm
The Creation Family Fun: Nature Tales is an event hosted by Westminster Abbey which is aimed to help us become better humans by appreciating animals more. This event includes lots of fun activities such as sculpture making, an exploration trail and storytelling, making it the perfect activity to participate in on a family day out. Free admission, but tickets must be booked. Find out more here.
Ongoing Activities
Pizza Workshop at The Wellington by Blue Orchid Hotels
The pizza workshop will allow you to learn the secrets to making delicious pizza dough and create the perfect pizza by choosing from a variety of toppings. It is an interactive class ideal for people of all ages. Children (12 and under) are treated with goodie bags upon arrival and can eat for free. Adults will receive a 10% off discount on all food, beverages and spa treatments too. Learn more here.
Themed Afternoon Teas at Kona in St James Court, a Taj Hotel
An elegant afternoon tea bound to brighten up your day. The Secret Garden Afternoon Tea and the Indian Jasmine Afternoon Tea. The Secret Garden Afternoon Tea is based on the classic children’s novel ‘The Secret Garden’ by Frances Hodgson Burnett. The pastries are inspired by the story and are designed to transport you to the beautiful English countryside. The hotel also offers an Indian Jasmine Afternoon Tea which encapsulates the rich Indian culture and allows you to try traditional Indian desserts that you may not have tried before, such as Gulab Jamun. This afternoon tea also includes familiar afternoon tea favourites such as scones. What’s not to love! Learn more here.
Belgravia Cycle Saturdays
Belgravia and Pimlico Cycle Saturdays is on the 1st Saturday of every month at Eccleston Yards and has three free activities for anyone to join. Eccleston Yard is a friendly space in the heart of Victoria with cafes, restaurants and toilet facilities. Find out more
