London in August 2026: discover the city’s best things to do

Discover London in August 2026 with Visit London’s curated guide to top events, outdoor attractions, and seasonal experiences across the capital.
Sigrun Tomicki
Written by Sigrun Tomicki 28 May 2026

London in August 2026 is the perfect time to enjoy summer in the capital, with warm weather, long daylight hours and a packed calendar of events. Highlights include Notting Hill Carnival, east London’s music festival All Points East and a strong programme at Shakespeare’s Globe. From outdoor cinema screenings to riverside dining and rooftop bars, there is no shortage of things to do in London in August.

At Visit London, we combine local expertise, seasonal insight and trusted event information to select the best things to do each month.  From must-see highlights to lesser-known favourites, this guide will help you plan your visit and discover the very best of London in August 2026. 

✨ Best things to do in August in London at a glance

How we chose the best things to do in London in August 

Drawing on Visit London’s local expertise and up-to-date event information, this guide highlights a selection of the capital’s top events, attractions and seasonal experiences.

We’ve ensured that each inclusion has been chosen for its cultural and seasonal appeal, offering something for every interest, from standout events to hidden gems. Whether you’re planning ahead or looking for inspiration, this guide will help you make the most of London in August.  

Don't miss Battersea Park in Concert – Best for an upscale picnic concert experience

Crowds stand in front of the stage at Battersea Park in Concert
Battersea Park in Concert. Image courtesy of Battersea Park.
Where: Battersea Park, SW11 4NJ
Nearest Tube: Battersea Power Station (Northern)
When: 28-31 Aug
Duration: Varies per event

Enjoy Battersea Park in Concert, a weekend of curated live music events in Battersea Park this August bank holiday, set against the backdrop of the British summertime. The programme brings together a range of performances in an open-air setting, designed to showcase music in a relaxed and atmospheric environment.

Highlights across the weekend include themed shows such as Sounds of South Africa with Jeremy Loops, Pop Symphonic, Music and Musicals, and Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra, offering something for every musical taste.

While in the neighbourhood we always love visiting nearby Battersea Power Station to take for stunning views of the London skyline, particularly at night. 

Enjoy Notting Hill Carnival – Best for celebrating Caribbean culture and heritage

A photo of performers enjoying the Notting Hill Carnival 2016, dressed in red costumes.
Notting Hill Carnival 2016. Credit: Tara Hobson. Image courtesy of Carnival Village Trust.
Where: Notting Hill, W11
Nearest Tube: Notting Hill Gate (Central, District and Circle) and Ladbroke Grove (Circle and Hammersmith & City)
When: 29-31 Aug
Duration: All day event

Notting Hill Carnival is set to draw more than two million revellers to the streets of W11 for its 60th edition over the August bank holiday weekend. One of the world’s largest street festivals, it is a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture, featuring colourful floats, lively dance groups, steel bands and feel-good music, with performers and many attendees dressed in striking, elaborate costumes.

Festivities run from 29 to 31 August, with Sunday offering a more family-focused programme, including the children’s parade, while Monday brings the main celebrations to a close with high-energy performances and large-scale celebrations across the area.

Sip cocktails at London's chic rooftop bars – Best for a skyline and sunset views

The bar lined with bar stools with views through the full-length windows visible in the background.
The bar at Radio Rooftop. Image courtesy of Upmarket Hotels & Leisure Ltd.
Where: Multiple venues
Nearest Tube: Various
When: Flexible
Duration: 1-2 hours

Discover a wide range of rooftop bars across London, from scenic spots with sweeping views to stylish venues known for creative cocktails in central locations. For elevated views and refined drinks, visit Radio Rooftop at the ME London, set on the 10th floor and offering spectacular city panoramas.

Alternatively, Netil360 in Hackney offers a more relaxed setting, with panoramic skyline views alongside craft beers, playful cocktails and wood-fired pizzas. 

Enjoy Now You See Me at the London Coliseum – Best for illusionist fans

This is the official poster for the upcoming stage production of Now You See Me. It shows the four characters, a woman and three men, surrounded by cards on a blue background.
See the spectacular stage illusion show Now You See Me, which brings the characters from the film The Four Horsemen to the London Coliseum stage. Image courtesy of Buchanan PR.
Where: London Coliseum, 33 St Martin's Lane, WC2N 4E
Nearest Tube: Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly)
When: 31 Jul-6 Sep
Duration: 2 hours
Price: From £33.00

From the producers of The Illusionists and inspired by Lionsgate’s blockbuster film franchise, Now You See Me Live makes its London debut for a limited summer run at the London Coliseum. This high-energy stage show combines cutting-edge illusions, solo stunts and large-scale spectacle to bring the magic of the films to life.

Featuring four world-class illusionists performing as The Horsemen, the production delivers a fast-paced and visually striking experience. With performers who have appeared in sell-out shows on Broadway and across major stages worldwide, this is a must-see event for fans of live entertainment and contemporary magic.

Winston Churchill day tour – Best for history enthusiasts

Blenheim Palace in Oxford with reflection in water pool in the gardens
Blenheim Palace. Image courtesy of VisitBritain
Where: Stop 1 Bulleid Way, SW1W 9SR
Nearest Tube: Victoria (Victoria, Circle and District)
When: Wed, Fri and Sun: 8.30am
Duration: Approx. 10 hours
Price: From £79.00

Explore two historic sites on a guided Winston Churchill day tour from London, beginning with entry to the Churchill War Rooms. Walk through the Cabinet Room where key wartime decisions were made, see the map-filled operations rooms, and discover the living quarters used by staff, as well as Churchill’s private office. We think it is best to enhance the visit with an audio guide available in multiple languages.

In the afternoon, continue to Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, an impressive 18th-century estate, and the birthplace of Winston Churchill. Explore the grand State Rooms, a dedicated Churchill exhibition and beautifully landscaped grounds designed at your own pace which is one of our favourite parts of Blenheim Palace. Admire a setting that has also featured in major film and television productions such as Netflix's Bridgerton.

London E-Prix at the Excel – Best for motor sport fan

Where: Excel London, Royal Victoria Dock, 1 Western Gateway, E16 1XL
Nearest Tube: Custom House (Elizabeth and DLR)
When: 15-16 Aug: 9.30am
Duration: 7 hours and 30 minutes

The London E-Prix returns to the capital for the season finale, bringing two days of Formula E high-speed racing to the ExceL London. This unique track combines indoor and outdoor sections, weaving through the Royal Docklands and making it one of the most distinctive circuits in international motorsport.

Alongside the on-track action, visitors can explore the Fan Village, featuring interactive experiences, a gaming arena, food stalls and displays of cutting-edge car prototypes. Arrive early to watch qualifying sessions and explore the pit lane before the main race, with easy access to the venue via the Elizabeth line.

Catch a film at London's outdoor cinemas – Best for film lovers

A photo of Rooftop Film Club Peckham from behind the seats of people with the screen showing "Pulp Fiction" title screen as the sun sets in the background
Make London's sunset the backdrop to your next movie date. Image courtesy of Rooftop Film Club.
Where: Multiple venues
Nearest Tube: Various
When: Select dates
Duration: Depends on the film

Rooftop Cinema Club, with locations in Stratford and Peckham, offers a relaxed open-air film experience with a choice of seating, from deep-cushioned deckchairs to cosy two-person love seats. Past programmes have featured a mix of crowd-pleasing classics such as La La Land, How to Lose a Guy in 10 days, Notting Hill, Zootopia 2 and Good Will Hunting.

The Barbican’s Outdoor Cinema also returns during the summer season, screening a curated selection of award-winning and international films including Arrival and The Florida Project. Elsewhere across the city, look out for programmes at Lower Marsh Lates, Everyman on the Canal in King’s Cross and Vauxhall’s Summer Screens for more open-air entertainment. 

Camden Fringe – Best for independent theatre and emerging talent

Where: Multiple venues
Nearest Tube: Camden Town (Northern) and Chalk Farm (Northern)
When: 3-30 Aug
Duration: Approx. 1 hour (depending on the performance)

The Camden Fringe returns to north London with a packed and diverse programme, featuring more than 370 shows across 33 venues. From theatre and comedy to music, opera, improv, dance and even game shows, there is something to suit every interest, as the festival transforms the area into a lively hub of creativity.

Enjoy both emerging and established performers in a supportive environment allowing them to test their new material. Tickets are affordable and many shows can be booked on the door making it easy to explore the programme and discover something unexpected. 

Treat the kids to a child friendly show – Best for family-friendly entertainment

Nala and the lionesses in Disney's The Lion King
Nala in Disney's The Lion King. Image courtesy of The Lion King/Brinkhoff and Mogenburg.
Where: West End, WC2 and W1
Nearest Tube: Multiple stations
When: Depending on the show
Duration: Varies

Experience the magic of the West End with your little ones during the school summer holidays. Choose from much-loved family favourites such as Matilda, The Lion King, which we love for its unforgettable score, and Wicked, with its spectacular costumes, or discover newer productions including Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular, where impressive acrobatics are sure to keep children captivated until the final curtain, we suggest arriving early to catch the pre-show.

With a wide range of shows to suit all ages, it’s worth planning ahead to secure tickets. Take a look at our best kids’ theatre section to find the perfect production for your visit. 

Buckingham Palace State Rooms – Best for royal experiences

An opulent rec throne room with chandeliers and portraits at buckingham palace.
Be captivated by the grand interiors and get up close with royal portraits in the Throne Room at Buckingham Palace. © Royal Collection Trust
Where: Buckingham Palace, Buckingham Gate, SW1A 1AA
Nearest Tube: Green Park (Jubilee, Piccadilly and Victoria) and St James’s Park (Circle and District)
When: 9 Jul-27 Sep
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Price: From £20.50

Step inside Buckingham Palace during its summer opening and explore the royal residence. Beyond the famous gates, visitors can admire grand staircases, glittering chandeliers and beautifully decorated State Rooms still used for official ceremonies. Highlights include 19 rooms such as the Throne Room, along with works by artists including Rembrandt and Rubens, brought to life through a multimedia guide.

Extend your visit with a royal walking tour to explore nearby landmarks or include a stop at the Royal Mews. We recommend including Windsor Castle, which offers further insight into Britain’s royal heritage and perfect for a whole day filled with exploring royal residences.

Hampton Court Palace Food Festival – Best for foodies and fans of historic palaces

Crowds picnic in the grounds of Hampton Court Palace at sunset
Hampton Court Palace at sunset. Image courtesy of Hampton Court Palace.
Where: Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU
Nearest Tube: Hampton Court station
When: 29-31 Aug: 10am-6pm
Duration: 2-3 hours
Price: From £32.00

Hampton Court Palace Food Festival returns for the bank holiday weekend, bringing together more than 150 artisan producers at this historic royal setting. The festival celebrates global flavours, with street food from cuisines such as Sri Lankan, Indian and Korean, alongside craft beers, books, crafts and condiments.

Best of all, tickets also include access to Hampton Court Palace, the former home of Henry VIII, making it easy to turn your visit into a full day out. Take time to explore the impressive interiors, wander through the grounds, and don’t miss the kitchen gardens, where a variety of fruits and vegetables are grown.

Enjoy adult-only museum lates – Best for an immersive museum experience

Plane suspended by ceiling at the Science Museum.
The Winton Gallery at The Science Museum. Image courtesy of The Science Museum Group.
Where: Multiple venues
Nearest Tube: Various
When: Various dates
Duration: Approx. 2-3 hours

Discover a range of museum late openings across the city, offering after-hours access with a lively and social atmosphere. Science Museum Lates take place on the last Wednesday of each month, featuring interactive demonstrations, silent discos and adults-only activities in a relaxed evening setting.

The V&A Friday Late runs on the final Friday of the month, with a rotating programme of artist-led events, performances and creative takeovers. At Tate Modern Lates evenings include extended gallery hours, live music and hands-on workshops, providing a different way to experience the museum after dark.

Explore the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition – Best for art fans and upcoming artists

A couple looking at a wall covered in different artworks at the Summer Exhibition
Installation view of the Summer Exhibition 2024 at the Royal Academy of Arts in London, 18 June - 18 August 2024. Image courtesy of Royal Academy of Arts, London / David Parry.
Where: Burlington House, Piccadilly, W1J 0BD
Nearest Tube: Green Park (Jubilee, Piccadilly and Victoria
When: 16 Jun- 23 Aug, Tue-Sun: 10am-6pm, Friday: 10am-9pm
Duration: Approx. 2-3 hours
Price: From £23.50

London’s favourite art show returns for its 258th edition, displaying around 1,200 works across prints, paintings, sculptures and film at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition.

Curated by a different leading artist each year, the Summer Exhibition is known for its open-submission format, welcoming entries from both emerging and established names. Past exhibitors have included David Hockney, Tracey Emin and Wolfgang Tillmans, making it a dynamic and ever-evolving highlight of the city’s cultural calendar.  

Catch a show at Shakespeare's Globe – Best for fans of classic plays

Overview of the Shakespeare Globe open-air amphitheatre and its wooden structure
Take part in a guided tour at the Shakespeare's Globe Theatre and explore 400 years of history. © London & Partners/Michael Barrow
Where: 21 New Globe Walk, SE1 9DT
Nearest Tube: Blackfriars (District and Circle) or Mansion House (District and Circle)
When: Daily: 10am-6pm
Duration: Approx. 2-3 hours

Watch world-class theatre at the iconic open-air Shakespeare’s Globe on the South Bank. August performances include A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Love’s Labour’s Lost and Much Ado About Nothing, bringing Shakespeare’s plays to life in an atmospheric setting.

The Globe is known for its dynamic casting, showcasing a mix of established and emerging talent. For a more affordable option, we advise selecting the standing tickets as they are cheaper and offer a special experience close to the stage. Keep an eye out for special one-night performances and book in advance to secure your seats. 

Experience All Points East music festival – Best for diverse music

Where: Victoria Park, Grove Road, E3 5TB
Nearest Tube: Bethnal Green (Central)
When: 21-30 Aug
Price: From £64.95

East London’s flagship All Points East music festival returns to Victoria Park, bringing another standout line-up to the capital. This year’s programme features headliners such as Jorja Smith and Tems, Lorde, Deftones, Tyler, The Creator and Twenty One Pilots.

Taking place across two weekends, the festival offers much more than music. Expect a curated selection of street food from east London vendors, alongside drinks from local breweries in Tower Hamlets and Hackney. There is also a programme of community-focused events and workshops, including theatre, sports and wellbeing sessions.

Join a speedboat tour with Thames Rockets – Best for thrill seekers

Thames rockets boat passing Big Ben on the river Thames.
Bring along the kids and listen to feel-good tunes aboard Captain Kidd’s Canary Wharf Voyage. Image courtesy of Golden Tours.
Where: Boarding Gate One, The London Eye, Millennium Pier, SE1 7PB
Nearest Tube: Westminster (Jubilee, Circle and District)
When: Daily: 10am-8pm (Times may vary seasonally)
Duration: 50-80 minutes
Price: From £64.95

Fly along the river Thames on a Thames Rocket speedboat tour on a rigid inflatable boat with up to 35 miles per hour (55km per hour). Listen to some London facts from an expert guides before you prepare for the speed to crank up. Enjoy a thrilling ride on the Thames while soaking in the epic views along the way.

Choose between the Ultimate London Adventure, a 50-minute tour that takes you past sights including Big Ben and Tower Bridge or pick the Thames Barrier Explorers Voyage where your journey takes you right up to the Thames Barrier. Or opt for the latest high-speed vessel, Thames Rockets Rocket Rebel speedboat tour that include top tunes and plenty of speed - read the Thames Rockets Rebel tour review.

BBC Proms at Royal Albert Hall – Best for classical music fans

A photo from the stage of the Royal Albert Hall seating area
Find a schedule of live music events at the Royal Albert Hall. Credit: Royal Albert Hall.
Where: Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP
Nearest Tube: South Kensington (District, Circle and Piccadilly) and High Street Kensington (Circle and District)
When: 17 Jul-12 Sep
Duration: 2-3 hours
Price: From £8.00

The BBC Proms returns with an extensive summer programme of live music, centred around the Royal Albert Hall. Featuring more than 80 performances, the festival brings together world-class orchestras, soloists and conductors for a celebration of classical music and beyond. 

This year’s programme includes a mix of traditional concerts and genre-spanning performances, from orchestral interpretations of contemporary music to themed shows. The season opens with leading international performers and concludes with the much-anticipated Last Night of the Proms. 

British Museum – Best for exploring ancient history

The Great Court at the British Museum with blue sky and light peering through the glass rood, round white structure in the middle, visitors all around and Greek-style buildings in the background.
The British Museum. Credit: Trustees of the British Museum. Image courtesy of the British Museum.
Where: Great Russell Street, WC1B 3DG
Nearest Tube: Tottenham Court Road (Central and Elizabeth) and Holborn (Central and Piccadilly)
When: Mon-Sun: 10am-5pm, Fri: 10am-8.30pm
Duration: 2-3 hours

Explore a collection spanning two million years of history at the British Museum. From ancient Greece and Egypt to Africa and China, more than 60 free galleries showcase artefacts from across the world, centred around the striking Great Court. Highlights include one of our favourites the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures.

Enhance your experience with a two-hour British Museum guided tour or combine your visit with an afternoon tea at the museum. We suggest arriving early on a weekday to avoid the big crowds or taking advantage of the late Friday opening for a more relaxed experience.

The Go City Explorer Pass – Best for sightseeing and attractions

Animation of mobile phone holding up Go City app in front of Big Ben and Houses of Parliament.
Save on more than 90 iconic attractions when buying a Go City London Explorer Pass. Image courtesy of Go City.
Where: Multiple venues
Duration: The London Explorer Pass is available for 30 days from the first time of use.
Price: From £59.00

Unlock access to more than 90 top sights in the capital with this convenient digital pass. Whether you’re in London for a long weekend or planning to stay longer, the Go City Explorer Pass lets you choose how many attractions you want to see. The pass also offers an unlimited access option making it a flexible option depending on budget and itinerary.

You can download the pass to your phone and enjoy hassle-free entry to iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, London Eye, and Kew Gardens.  

London in August FAQs

Is August a good time to visit London?

Yes, August is a wonderful time to visit London, with a packed calendar of festivals, outdoor events and school holiday activities. Popular attractions can be busy, so it is best to book in advance. 

What is the weather like in London in August?

August typically brings warm weather and long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Average temperatures range from around 18 to 23°C, with sunrise at approximately 5.30am and sunset around 8.30pm. See our London weather page for more details. 

Is London busy in August?

August is a busy time in London due to the summer holidays and major events. Visiting attractions outside of peak times and planning ahead can help you avoid thecrowds. 

What to wear in London in August?

Light and breathable clothing is recommended for warm days, along with comfortable shoes for exploring on foot. It’s also a good idea to bring a light jumper and an umbrella in case of cooler weather or rain. 

What events are happening in London in August?

Highlights include Notting Hill Carnival, the August bank holiday weekend and the BBC Proms, alongside a wide range of festivals, exhibitions and outdoor events across the city.