London is bursting with energy in the summer, offering a vibrant mix of culture, adventure, and entertainment for every age. Whether you’re planning family holidays London-style, a solo city break, or a weekend with friends, there’s no shortage of things to do in London this summer. From historic landmarks and riverside thrills to art exhibitions and live music, here’s your guide to the best things to do in London this summer.
Jump to a section:
- Summer Attractions in London for Every Age Group
- Culture, History & Indoor Summer Activities in London
- Sport & Adventure
- Food and Drink Experiences
Summer Attractions in London for Every Age Group
More Than Monuments: Hidden gems of central London
What? Explore boutique fitness studios, luxury spas, atmospheric wine bars, and vibrant brunch spots across Victoria, Westminster, Whitehall, and The Northbank
When? All summer long
This campaign invites visitors and locals alike to see a different side of central London, offering exclusive discounts at participating venues. Perfect for adults and teenagers looking for a mix of culture, wellness, and dining.
The Guards Museum: Family fun at the Inside Out Festival
What? Family-friendly fun on Chapel Square
When? 11am to 2pm, 20 to 22 August
We’re partnering with The Guards Museum for this year’s Inside Out Festival by Westminster City Council. Perfectly timed with the Changing of the Guard, enjoy live music, dress-up fun, and sign up for guard-themed workshops including: Uniform Try-on (daily), Paint Your Own Guard (20 Aug), Origami (21 Aug), and Biscuit Decorating (22 Aug).
Nature and Outdoor Activities at The Royal Parks
What? Nature, outdoor activities, and free fun
When? Daily, all summer long
Perfect for kids, teenagers, adults, and families, the Royal Parks are ideal for free summer activities London visitors can enjoy. Walks, picnics, wildlife spotting, and seasonal outdoor events make Green Park and St James’s Park the perfect way to enjoy outdoor activities in London over the summer holidays. Admission is free, though some guided tours may require pre-booking.
Concerts and Al Fresco Dining at St Martin-in-the-Fields
What? Music, culture and al fresco dining
When? Candlelight Concerts in the Crypt: various dates in August. Pizza Garden: daily, all summer
For indoor and outdoor activities in London over the summer holidays, St Martin-in-the-Fields is a must-visit. Enjoy Candlelight Concerts or the atmospheric In the Crypt series in August. These performances are ideal for teenagers and adults who love music, culture, and history. Tickets are available online, and booking in advance is advised.
This summer, the courtyard has come alive with the brand-new Pizza Garden, created in collaboration with neighbours Kitty Hawk. Savour wood-fired pizzas while sipping a refreshing Birra Moretti from the summer bar and relax in comfortable deckchairs and lounge areas. On selected days, enjoy free live music and outdoor games too. No booking required, just drop by! Prices start from £15 for pizza and beer, or £12 with a soft drink when using the FREE LHQ Hub App.
Black On The Square 2025
What? Music, performance, and visual arts
When? 6 September 2025
Celebrate culture and community at Black On The Square 2025 on Trafalgar Square. Suitable for teenagers, adults, and families, this event showcases music, performance, and art. Most activities are free, though some workshops or premium experiences may require pre-booking.
Culture, History & Indoor Summer Activities in London
Edward Burra and Ithell Colquhoun Exhibitions at Tate Britain
What? Art and culture for teens and adults
When? On display until 19 October
For indoor activities in London over the summer holidays, Tate Britain offers world-class exhibitions and art installations. Adults and teenagers can explore British art across centuries, while some interactive areas are suitable for older children. Entry to the main galleries is free, though special exhibitions may require tickets booked in advance.
This summer, one ticket gives visitors access to two major exhibitions: Edward Burra and Ithell Colquhoun. Explore Burra’s vivid watercolours of urban life and conflict alongside Colquhoun’s surreal, mystical art exploring identity and the occult. A rare chance to see over 220 artworks from two visionary British artists.
Celebration of Makers at Two Temple Place
What? Free, immersive event for all ages
When? 28 to 31 August
This riverside mansion opens its doors for special exhibitions and cultural events during the summer months, showcasing art, history, and design. A hidden gem ideal for families looking to explore beyond the traditional museum circuit. Celebration of Makers at the end of August is a free event, allowing visitors to discover the craftsmanship behind Two Temple Place with live stone and wood carving, gilding, stained glass demos, workshops for all ages, talks on the building’s history, and a makers market featuring Crafty Fox Market.
Charing Cross Collectors Market
What? History and shopping for all ages
When? Every Saturday from 7am to 2pm
One of London’s oldest market sites, discover coins, stamps, militaria, antiques and more at this collector’s haven hidden in plain sight. This underground treasure trove beneath Villiers Street is suitable for teenagers, adults, and families. It’s a fun way to combine history, culture, and shopping in central London. Entry is free, though prices vary per stall. No booking is needed.
Explore justice up close at The Supreme Court
What? Public tours of the UK Supreme Court
When? Selected dates over summer holidays
Older children and adults interested in law and history can explore the UK Supreme Court on exclusive public tours. Step inside the UK’s highest court with exclusive tours. Booking ahead is essential, and tours give a fascinating insight into Britain’s legal system.
Family-friendly Activities at London Transport Museum
What? Transport history, interactive galleries, and family trails
When? Daily, throughout the summer holidays
The London Transport Museum in Covent Garden is perfect for indoor activities in London over the summer holidays. Book online for fast entry.
Art for all ages at The National Gallery
What? Free permanent collection and summer workshops for children
When? Daily, with workshops on selected dates until 31 August
The National Gallery is a highlight of London summer attractions. Free to enter, with paid special exhibitions and family events. Book workshops online in advance.
Sport and Adventure
Thames RIB Experience
What? Speedboat rides on the Thames for thrill-seekers of all ages
When? All summer long, booking required
A high-speed Thames RIB tour offers a mix of sport, adventure, and sightseeing. Travel past iconic landmarks like Big Ben, Cleopatra’s Needle and Westminster. Tickets cost around £35 to £50 per adult, and booking in advance is highly recommended, especially on weekends. Boats depart from Embankment and Westminster Piers and rides last from 20 to 75 minutes.
Barry’s Bootcamp & Karve Victoria: Boutique Fitness Studios
What? High-intensity workouts and reformer Pilates
When? Multiple daily sessions, all summer. Booking required
For fitness fans, Barry’s Bootcamp in Eccleston Yards delivers adrenaline-fuelled HIIT workouts, while the newly opened Karve Victoria offers low-impact reformer Pilates in stylish surroundings. Best for adults and prices start from £20 to £25 per class. Book online in advance.
Train Like a Pro at JAB Boxing Club
What? Boxing and fitness classes
When? Daily, throughout summer. Booking required
Located in Victoria, JAB Boxing Club is great for anyone keen to try a new sport or level up their skills, whether this be through strength training or a boxing class. Classes start from £20 and booking is essential.
Food and Drink Experiences
Spritz at Greenwood Victoria
What? Sport screenings, terrace spritzes, and stonebaked pizzas
When? Women’s Rugby World Cup screenings: 22 August to 27 September, plus regular match screenings
Greenwood near Victoria Station is the place to catch the action this summer. Enjoy spritzes on the terrace during Aperitivo Hour (2 for £20, 4 to 6pm on weekdays), or tuck into creative pizzas from £12. Book a table for guaranteed match views.
Pub culture at The Admiralty
What? Traditional pub food, big screens, and lively summer events in Trafalgar Square
When? Daily, throughout summer
Located by Trafalgar Square, The Admiralty suits anyone looking for fun things to do in London in summer. With outdoor seating, classic pub menus, and large screens showing the season’s biggest sporting events, it’s a hub for summer events in London. Food and drinks are reasonably priced (£12 to £20). Table bookings are recommended, especially on weekends.
Emilia’s Pasta: New Flagship Opened in Victoria
What? Handmade pasta and seasonal Italian dishes
When? Daily, all summer
Emilia’s Pasta is a family-friendly favourite with an Italian menu that appeals to kids, teenagers, and adults alike. Dishes start from £10 to £15, making it a relaxed option for family holidays London. Walk-ins are welcome, but booking is recommended at peak times.
Osteria Del Mare by Bocconcino: Seafood and fine dining
What? Modern Italian dining with fresh seafood and summer specials
When? Daily, lunch and dinner
Located near Trafalgar Square, Osteria Del Mare by Bocconcino is ideal for adults and teenagers seeking a refined summer dining experience. Expect seasonal seafood dishes and Italian classics, with prices from £15. Booking ahead is recommended for dinner service.
Kitty Hawk: Summer of Cîroc and rooftop cocktails
What? Summer cocktails, rooftop lounge, and Riviera-inspired events
When? Daily dining and events on selected dates throughout summer
For adults seeking stylish London summer attractions, Kitty Hawk hosts A Summer of Cîroc, transforming its rooftop into a chic French Riviera escape. Enjoy cocktails, music, and lounge vibes. Some events are ticketed, and advance booking is advised.
Fun Summer Events and Experiences
Summer Events in London for Kids
From outdoor theatre performances in the Royal Parks to hands-on art workshops at Tate Britain, there are plenty of things to do this summer with kids. Many events are free, while prices for others vary per ticket. Booking in advance is recommended for popular workshops.
Activities for Teenagers and Young Adults in London
Thrill rides, RIB tours, and live music events provide summer activities London-style for older kids. Prices vary and booking ahead is advised for sports or adventure experiences.
Whole Family Experiences in London
Combine culture, nature, and food. Explore London summer attractions like Royal Parks or Charing Cross Collectors Market, followed by riverside dining or a pizza at Emilia’s. Many activities are free or low cost, making them ideal for family holidays London visitors.
London Museums Over the Summer
Keep an eye out for what’s on at London museums over the summer holidays for exhibitions, workshops, and interactive displays suitable for all ages. Many activities are free, but special exhibitions may require tickets booked in advance.
Planning Your Summer in London
With so many summer things to do in London, it’s worth planning ahead. For things to do in London England in August, book popular RIB tours, special exhibitions at Tate Britain, or tables at Greenwood and The Admiralty. Whether you’re looking for fun things to do in London in summer, free summer activities London, or indoor activities in London over the summer holidays, there’s something for every age group, taste, and budget.
From art and history to sport, nature, and culinary adventures, the city offers the perfect mix of summer activities London visitors can enjoy. Your what to do in London this summer checklist starts here! Pack your map, grab your sunglasses, and get ready to make this summer unforgettable.