Things to do on August bank holiday weekend 2025 in London

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This summer is all about celebrating the very best of London. Caribbean parties, alfresco attractions, family fun... Soak up the last of the summer vibes with this pick of what’s on during the bank holiday weekend in London. 

When is the August bank holiday?

The August 2025 bank holiday takes place from 23 to 25 August.

Activities in London on the August bank holiday

Tick off those must-see attractions

Use the extra day off to check out many of London’s top attractions from your must-see list.

The long weekend gives you even more time to discover your London, so why not pick up a sightseeing pass such as The London Pass*, the Go City London Explorer Pass* or the Merlin London Attractions Pass, which give you access to multiple attractions.

Or spot the sights from the top deck on a bus tour, including a hop-on-hop-off tour allowing you to see as much or as little as you like. Alternatively, take to the river to discover key landmarks from a different angle on a boat tour.

Only got the one day to explore the capital? Tick off the city's top sights with the Total London Experience.

Book a West End show

The cast of The Book of Mormon dances on stage at the Prince of Wales Theatre.

Be dazzled by London's top theatre shows. See long-running musicals such as the Lion King and The Phantom of the Opera West End or laugh along with the award-winning Book of Mormon musical.

Immersive and adrenaline activities 

Add even more excitement into the weekend with thrilling activities across the capital:

What to do on bank holiday for cool kids

low angle photo of old London transport method of model horse and carriage with two doll mannequins sitting on the carriage

It's nearly the end of the school holidays, so make the most of the final days by creating memories to last a lifetime (or to brag about to your friends). 

  • Laugh out loud at Shrek's Adventure! London, an indoor walk-and-ride attraction inspired by the hit Dreamworks film.
  • Uncover the secrets of the night sky at a planetarium show at the Royal Observatory Greenwich
  • Find out more about wildlife in London on special trails around the London Transport Museum or stop off at nature hubs on the South Ken Green Trail
  • Discover how tiny hatchlings become gigantic tortoises and meet an array of wildlife from around the world at London Zoo.
  • Head to Cutty Sark Greenwich to hear stories of the ship's past brought to life by colourful characters and scale the rig to enjoy the view of the River Thames and London

Discover more of the top family attractions for kids or find more things to do with teenagers in London.

Refresh your wardrobe

Unmissable events in London during the August bank holiday

Get your dancing shoes ready

A woman in pink carnival dress extends her hand. 
  • Europe's largest street festival, Notting Hill Carnival, takes place over the London August bank holiday and brings infectious atmosphere to Notting Hill all weekend long.
  • The party vibes continue at Yam Carnival, which celebrates Black music, culture and food with a host of acts and activities to enjoy over the weekend.

Check back closer to the time for more exciting events

Venture to the great outdoors

A family cheers with glasses of champagne sat on camping chairs in front of the stage at Battersea Park in Concert

Enjoy an alfresco movie night

Grab a deckchair or drive into one of London's outdoor cinemas, and immerse yourself in cult classics and new releases.

Book a spot for a concert

Tune in to concerts, including the BBC Proms, which dedicates the weekend to Family Proms and French composers. 

Experience top outdoor entertainment night with a number of annual events! Check back closer to the time for more.

Explore London's top outdoor spaces

Two women walking up the staircase with plants in the foreground in Kew Gardens conservatory

Make the most of the summer weather by heading to some of London's best outdoor spaces. Enjoy a cocktail on a rooftop overlooking some of the most bustling parts of the city, and as the world’s first National Park City, there are plenty of quiet green spaces where you can indulge in some “me time”. 

Find more things to do in London.

Escape the crowds 

 Groups of people sat on the grassy hill in Greenwich Park with a view of the National Maritime Museum and city in the background

These hidden gems are the perfect way to spend the bank holiday weekend if you’re looking to avoid the crowds.

  • Venture to Hampstead Heath and visit Kenwood House. Marvel at the beautiful interiors and artworks before wandering the gardens on the Mac’s Kenwood Trail, perfect for curious kids and adults alike.
  • Go on a Secret London Walking Tour, exploring the lesser-known spots across the city. From ancient pubs and old bookshops to what was once the world’s smallest police station.
  • Visit London’s picturesque Little Venice, a canal area home to many waterside cafes, pubs and restaurants. Stroll along its pretty streets or hop on a boat up to Camden.
  • See the city lit up in all its glory on a London by Night Open Top Bus Tour, spotting all of the city’s most memorable locations.

Take a day trip from London

low angle photo of the white royal horses, pulling a small black coach and a rider at the front wearing a top hat
Venture out of the city on a day trip to some of iconic sights close to the capital.

August bank holiday opening times

Opening times may vary and many attractions and venues require advance booking. Check with the individual venues before you go.

More bank holiday weekend August ideas

If you’re looking for “bank holiday events near me” and more things to do in London on bank holiday weekend, download the Visit London app.

Alternatively, discover what’s on in London by day, more August activities or browse the London events calendar for key events. Find more inspiration for weekends in London with these handy weekend guides.

If you're not able to visit London this bank holiday, plan ahead for the next public holidays in London.