24 things to do in London in June 2026

June in London sees a roster of thrilling seasonal events, from sporting spectacles and music festivals to vibrant outdoor entertainment. The prestigious Summer Exhibition (16 June to 23 August) returns to the Royal Academy of Arts this month for its remarkable 258th edition, while world-renowned artists are set to light up Hyde Park for BST. Elsewhere, Taste of London Festival (17 to 22 June) celebrates the capital’s diverse food and drink scene, and London Open Gardensprovides a behind the scenes look at London's hidden green spaces.

Make the most of the warm, sunny days by exploring the city's top sights on a hop-on hop-off bus tour or sail down the Thames on a scenic river cruise. Indulge in alfresco dining, relax with a picnic in a beautiful park or visit legendary landmarks with our guide to the best things to do in London this June. 

Looking for last-minute inspiration? Check out what’s happening in London this weekend and be sure to download the Visit London app for on-the-go ideas. 

The best things to do in London in June 2026

   1.  Check out Meltdown festival at Southbank Centre 

Southbank Centre’s prestigious Meltdown Festival returns to London this month for its 31st edition. Each year, a pioneering artist is invited to curate a cutting-edge lineup, with previous curators including icons such as Chaka Khan, David Bowie and Yoko Ono. While the 2026 curator is yet to be announced, highlights from Mercury Prize-winning rapper Little Simz's 2025 festival included a bold program of live performances, talks and creative workshops.

2. Enjoy two days of dazzling performances at West End LIVE 

The biggest stars from London’s theatre scene are descending on Trafalgar Square for a showstopping weekend of live, free performances at West End LIVE this June. While the 2026 lineup is yet to be confirmed, previous events have included breathtaking productions from the casts of top shows such as Back to the Future, The Book of Mormon, The Lion King and Hamilton. Due to popular demand in previous years, the 2026 event will be ticketed through a ballot. However, performances will be livestreamed on a large screen in Pall Mall East, so arrive early for a chance to snag a seat.  

3. Celebrate Pride Month in London

Champion London’s LGBTQ+ community this month with events and activities across the capital in honour of Pride Month. Explore some of the city’s best gay bars such as east London’s Dalston Superstore, electronic music hub FOLD in Canning Town, and Soho’s first gay bar Village Soho. The celebrations culminate in the famous Pride in London Parade (TBC). While the free event invites people to dance through the streets of London’s West End, tickets for Grandstand seating in Piccadilly start at £55 and should be booked in advance.

4. Pick up a London Pass to save on top attractions

Unlock access to more than 100 top sights in the capital with this convenient digital pass. Whether you’re in London for a long weekend or looking to stay longer, the London Pass lets you choose a duration that suits your budget and schedule. Simply download the pass to your phone and enjoy hassle-free entry to iconic landmarks such as Westminster Abbey, Kew Gardens, and the Tower of London.

5. Feast your way through Taste of London Food Festival in The Regent’s Park 

Artisan producers, award-winning chefs and top restaurants across the capital are transforming Regent’s Park into a five-day foodie extravaganza (17 to 22 June). Expect spice-packed Indian flavours from Notting Hill’s Empire Empire and exceptional Malaysian plates courtesy of Roti King, as well as slick pop-ups from the likes of Oblix at The Shard and Japanese hotspot Roka. Discover emerging culinary delights such as craft beers by Tart Beer Co and flavour-filled condiments from the Truffle Guys.

6.  Make Father’s Day unforgettable with a special day out in London 

Treat dad this Father’s Day (21 June) to an exciting adventure in the capital. Whether it’s a scenic open-top bus ride past staple landmarks or a thrilling climb over London’s famous arena with Up at The O2, there are plenty of experiences to enjoy. Discover memorable activities such as cocktail masterclasses, sports stadium tours and a mouth-watering food walk through Borough Market.

7. Discover new galleries and eye-popping art at London Gallery Weekend

The world’s largest gallery event takes place in London this month (5 to 7 June), featuring free activities and interactive experiences across 125 contemporary art galleries in the capital. Highlights include live talks with artists at Cob Gallery, Hauser & Wirth, and Herald Street. Browse the Curated Routes – online itineraries designed by notable art professionals, with 2025 contributors including Royal Academy curator Tarini Malik and Gucci creative director Sabato De Sarno – for a fun schedule that suits you. 

8. Tick off London’s Royal landmarks   

Take a tour of the Tower of London with the Yeoman Warders (also known as the Beefeaters) and uncover the history of this former royal palace and prison, as well as the dazzling Crown Jewels. Or head to Buckingham Palace, where you might catch the ceremonial Changing the Guard if you’re visiting in the morning. Carve out time to visit the Unesco-protected Westminster Abbey to see the final resting place of England’s late kings and queens.

9. Uncover secret green spaces at London Open Gardens 

100 hidden green spaces including allotments, historic squares and private gardens across the capital will open their doors to the public this month (TBC). Visitors receive a map with addresses, opening times and entrances organised by borough – with new additions for 2026 clearly marked for regulars. Highlights include the roof garden at Ham Yard Hotel, offering sweeping views across Covent Garden and beyond, and the historic William Morris Society on Upper Mall, revealing the former private garden of the visionary artist. Ticket proceeds help cultivate and protect London’s green spaces. 

10. Groove to live music at Hampton Court Palace Festival 

Set against the stunning backdrop of the historic palace gardens – the former home of King Henry VIII – Hampton Court Palace Festival flaunts a star-studded bill for its 2026 edition. Celebrated artists across a diverse mix of genres are set to deliver electrifying performances. Guests will find wood-fired pizzas from Made of Dough, exceptional grilled lobster and buttermilk fried chicken from Poor Boys, and gyros from Smashing Plates. Prefer a picnic vibe? You can pre-order a luxury hamper filled with British delights. 

11. Marvel at London’s top attractions on a scenic open-top bus tour 

Board a hop-on hop-off bus tour and explore London’s famous landmarks at your own pace. The tour stops at more than 60 key spots including Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral and Tower of London. Choose from 24, 48, or 72-hour tickets and relish the freedom of exploring and hopping back on the bus when you’re ready. Listen to engaging audio guides that bring the history and stories of London to life.

12. See world-famous art at FRAMELESS 

Rediscover some of the world’s most prestigious artworks at FRAMELESS in Marble Arch. Inside, you’ll find 42 artworks displayed across four galleries, with cutting-edge light projections presenting artworks across walls, floors and ceilings. A highlight is the Beyond Reality section, where smart projections animate pieces from renowned artists – think Edvard Munch’s Scream and Max Ernst’s The Fireside Angel. Another standout space is The World Around Us, where visitors can explore artworks inspired by various landscapes, from oceans to volcanoes. Experience Van Gogh’s The Starry Night and Monet’s Boat on the Seine near Jeufosse like never before.

13. Plan an epic weekend of food, drink and live music at Pub in the Park

British Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge first launched this festival in 2017 to celebrate the UK’s buzzing gastropub scene. In 2026, Pub in the Park is considered one of the hottest events on London’s cultural calendar. Head to north London’s Gunnersbury Park for a delicious mix of pop-up stalls from top London pubs. You might find Indian favourite The Tamil Prince serving their signature lamb chops, The Pig’s Ear offering seasonal plates and Nutbourne wines, and Tom Kerridge’s The Butcher’s Tap & Grill delivering exceptional meat cuts.

14. Catch LIDO festival in Victoria Park 

New music festival LIDO returns to east London’s Victoria Park this month following its successful debut in 2025. Dreamed up by the same team behind All Points East, the community-driven event spans across two weekends with performances from world-renowned artists and emerging talent from students at nearby East London Arts and Music set to take to the stage. The festival has teamed up with Tower Hamlets Council to create free events for locals including family theatre shows, fitness sessions and street food. 

15. Mark your calendars for Wimbledon 2026

If you didn’t secure tickets in the ballot, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Wimbledon 2026 (29 June to 12 July). Arrive early and join the queue for a chance to experience the action from Henman Hill with a Grounds Pass – or even secure same-day tickets to Centre Court and Court One at the ticket resale kiosk. Alternatively, head to one of London’s popular outdoor screens such as St Katharine Docks, Screen on the Canal in King’s Cross and The Big Screen near Tower Bridge to watch the world's finest players battle for a trophy. 

16. Join the Eid on the Square 2026 celebrations 

Celebrate Eid al-Adha – also known as the Festival of Sacrifice – at Eid on the Square 2026 in Trafalgar Square. This free, family-friendly event invites locals and tourists to honour the Islamic occasion with live music, dance and poetry. The festival marks the end of Hajj (the annual pilgrimage to Mecca) and is a time for prayer and reflection among the Islamic community. Visitors will find delicious street food stalls serving a global mix of cuisines, while the main stage is set beneath the historic Nelson’s Column. Whether you’re discovering new cultures or connecting with family, Eid in the Square is a joyful celebration of community and diversity.

17. See a film alfresco at one of London's outdoor cinemas  

Check out London’s top open-air cinemas this June and catch a new film or an all-time classic on a balmy, summer evening. Adventure Cinema is back for another summer at Kew Gardens, while Rooftop Film Club in Peckham has a great mix of films to see including White Chicks, The Breakfast Club, The Godfather, The Notebook and Notting Hill, There’s also an outpost in Stratford for those based north of the river. Be sure to book ahead for the Barbican’s Outdoor Cinema nights in August. 

18. Explore the British Museum’s impressive collection with a guide 

The British Museum is considered one of the greatest museums in the world, with a vast collection spanning Egyptian artefacts and Parthenon Sculptures from the temple of Athena on the Acropolis in Athens. Book a guided tour with an expert and explore the museum while your guide shows you key pieces that have shaped the world and civilisation today. The tour lasts two hours and is limited to groups of no more than 20 people.

19. Secure tickets to Disney's Hercules the Musical 

Get ready to see the beloved Disney animation dazzle at Theatre Royal Drury Lane this summer. Director and choreographer Casey Nicholaw has put a fresh spin on the musical, blending classic hits such as “Go the Distance” with feel-good songs courtesy of Alan Menken and David Zippel. Luke Brady stars as the mighty Hercules, alongside Trevor Dion Nicholas as his loyal trainer, Phil. Packed with laughs, show-stopping dance and a stunning set design, this vibrant production makes for the ultimate family theatre experience. Browse seats and book your tickets now.

20. Delve into world-leading art and design at the London Design Biennale  

London Design Biennale returns to Somerset House for 2026. Over three weeks, the Biennale showcases cutting-edge design and innovation, bringing together 50 visionaries from across the world. Don’t miss standout national pavilions from leading destinations such as Japan, Peru, Hong Kong and Malta – each offering a unique cultural lens to this year’s theme.

21. Take a spellbinding adventure to Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter 

Just a 20-minute journey from London Euston, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London is a top day out for fans of the Harry Potter franchise. Uncover the magic behind the incredible special effects and take a behind the scenes tour of the real-life sets from the films. Find costumes and props including robes seen in the Quidditch tournaments and outfits worn by Harry, Ginny, Ron and Hermione in the final scene of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2. You can even wander the cobbles of Diagon Alley, board the Hogwarts Express on Platform 9 ¾ and step inside the nostalgic Great Hall.

22. Treat the kids to The Paddington Bear Experience at County Hall 

 

Little ones who love the Paddington books and films will enjoy this immersive experience with themed rooms, characters and locations from the beloved stories. Board a full-sized train carriage and ride through the city to the Brown’s House at No 32 Windsor Gardens, before stepping inside interactive rooms and seeing characters from the films. Travel to the jungle of Peru and help London’s favourite bear prepare for the biggest party of the year – Marmalade Day Festival.  

23. Spend a day at an exhilarating theme park 

Thrill-seekers can make the most of the warm summer weather by riding roller coasters at theme parks near London such as Thorpe Park, which boasts 30 rides and thrilling live events. Or head to LEGOLAND Windsor to drive a LEGO car, experience Laser Raiders or join the Viking Fleet and set sail on the Viking River Splash. Alternatively, visit Chessington World of Adventures to explore the aquarium and encounter awe-inspiring animals at the zoo. 

 

24. Take a day trip from London to discover Windsor, Bath and Stonehenge  

Unwind from the hustle and bustle of the capital on this whistle-stop, one-day luxury coach from London to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and the ancient Roman town of Bath. Discover St George’s Chapel in Windsor, which is the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II and the spot where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tied the knot. Step inside the State Apartments and explore the gorgeous gardens. Be wowed by the Neolithic stones at Stonehenge before spending the rest of the day exploring the historic town of Bath and its top sights such as the Roman Baths and Pulteney Bridge.

 

For more things to do in June in London, take a look at our events calendar and guide to what's on in London. Find fun things to do in London this weekend and see what last-minute tickets you can secure with our London theatre guide. 

Tips for your trip to London in June

What is the weather like in June?

June is an ideal month to visit London, with warm, sunny days and a range of outdoor activities to enjoy. Visitors can expect average temperatures from 18 to 22C (64 to 71F). Days are long, with the sun rising around 5am and setting around 9pm. The summer solstice, which is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, falls on 21 June. For more details on seasonal temperatures and rainfall, see our London weather page. 

Is June a good time to visit London?

June is a great time to explore London’s stunning parks and green spaces, as well as visiting top landmarks at their best. Popular attractions such as the London Eye, Tower of London and Buckingham Palace are best visited earlier in the day to avoid crowds. June tends to be quieter in London compared to July, when the school holidays begin.

What to wear in London in June? 

Pack light, breathable clothing for the warm weather. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for ease of exploring the city on foot and using public transport. If you’re travelling from further afield, it’s worth packing a warm jumper and an umbrella in case the weather takes a turn.