95 things to do in London this summer

Summer school holidays 2024

School's out! Which means there are a ton of exciting things to do this summer in London. This is your chance to have the ultimate adventure in the capital, tick off iconic landmarks and make memories at top attractions.

1. School's out! Discover plenty of fun things to do in London for families. Top tip: Sightsee and save at top attractions with The London Pass.
2. Find the the best family attractions in the capital: Take your pick of cool museums for kids and action-packed adventures. Meet top celebs at Madame Tussauds or encounter fascinating wildlife at the London Zoo, home to roaring lions and playful penguins.
3. Tick off the capital's top 10 attractions: Enjoy family favourites Shrek's Adventure! London, SEA LIFE London Aquarium and the London Eye. Take a deep dive into British history by visiting iconic sights such as Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace.
4. Or see top sights on The Total London Experience: The popular day-long tour takes in key sights and includes a river trip to Greenwich. See top London attractions including historic St Paul's Cathedral and watch the famous Changing the Guard ceremony.
5. Experience Harry Potter's London: Relive the magic at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter or be spellbound by Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Palace Theatre. Extend your stay in the wizarding world and visit Harry Potter filming locations, from Platform 9¾ at King's Cross to Leadenhall Market, the inspiration behind Diagon Alley.
6. Head to The Postal Museum for fun for all the family:  Discover the first-ever postcard and learn how the postal system has revolutionised our lives. Ride the Mail Rail, which was used until recently to deliver mail to Londoners, and explore much more. 
7. Hop on the IFS Cloud Cable Car for a selfie with a backdrop: Travel through the London sky at sunset for perfect snaps. This summer, head to Greenwich Peninsula and enjoy a vibrant array of activities, from live jazz performances to mini golf and outdoor cinema nights. Don't miss The Turning Tide Festival returning to Greenwich on 10 August, featuring acclaimed artists taking the stage.
8. Attend an exciting program of summer events at Battersea Power Station: Last year, visitors got involved at The Battersea Games, watched live matches at The Wimbledon Experience and scaled the Lift 109 viewing platform.
9. Enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers: See iconic landmarks as you hop on and off London's river bus. Make sure to snap a selfie in front of Tower Bridge! Glide along the Thames all the way to Greenwich, London's royal borough, and discover life at sea by boarding the historic tea clipper, the Cutty Sark.
10. History buffs can get their fix at the Tower of London: Hear tales of torture and treachery from the Yeoman Warden's and their raven companions. Head to the White Tower, showcasing gleaming armour, and learn about the infamous Bloody Tower's most well-known resident, Sir Walter Raleigh.
11. Take on the terrifying London Dungeons: Discover London's scary history and meet some of the city's most gruesome characters, from Jack the Ripper to Sweeney Todd. Explore the eerie alleyways of the dungeons as you uncover the dark secrets lurking beneath London's streets.
12. Stand with a foot in each hemisphere at the Royal Observatory Greenwich: Visit the home of Greenwich Mean Time and the world-famous Meridian Line where you will find London's only planetarium.
13. Enter the Taylor Swift-inspired world aboard (Taylor's Version) London afternoon tea bus: Tuck into sweet and savoury delights aboard the afternoon tea bus tour, taking in the iconic sights of London to the backdrop of a curated Taylor Swift playlist. Country and glitzy Swiftie attire encouraged!
14. Test your Tube driving skills at the London Transport Museum: Step into the driver's seat of iconic London buses as you explore the rich history of the city's public transport network. Discover vintage vehicles and learn how London's transportation system has evolved over time.
15. Try something new in London: Grab your mates and enjoy these thrilling immersive experiences. Be an inmate for the day at the Alcotraz Immersive Prison Experience, or step into the wonderful world of the Paddington Bear Experience and see some iconic locations from the movies while you help Paddington prepare for the Marmalade Day Festival.
16. Head to south London and immerse yourself in Tudor times at Hampton Court Palace: Discover where Henry VIII held court and explore the vast kitchens where 800 meals a day were prepared. Marvel at Henry's apartments before strolling through the elegant gardens and navigating the mysterious maze.

What's on in London's theatre during summer 2024?

1. Book ahead for London's top musicals: Get The Lion King tickets London or enjoy must-see shows such as the Wicked musical and The Phantom of the Opera London.
2. Discover the best shows for kids: Bring the kids to see their favourite Disney movies on stage, including Frozen, or catch the stunning stage adaptation of The Tiger Who Came to Tea – a delightful afternoon full of belly laughs awaits.
3. Laugh out loud at the best comedy shows: See the unexpected in the uproarious The Play That Goes Wrong, where chaos reigns and props fly off the stage in a disastrous performance. Or experience a night of chaotic comedy as everyone's favourite hotelier storms off the stage with the revival of Faulty Towers at the Apollo Theatre.
4. See the sensational Stranger Things: The First Shadow: This Netflix theatre prequel transports you back to 1959 Hawkins, where characters from the past face new beginnings – until their past catches up with them.
5. Feel summer vibes at Mamma Mia! at the Novello Theatre: For one night, escape to Greece with this summertastic musical featuring all of your favourite ABBA songs.
6. See Les Miserables and experience the timeless tale of sarifice and redemption at the Sondheim Theatre: Journey back to 19th-century post-revolutionary France and follow the gripping saga of Jean Valjean as he strives to evade the relentless Inspector Javert.
7. Join Marty McFly on an adventure of a lifetime in Back to the Future at the Adelphi Theatre: Embark on a thrilling journey through time with Marty and Doc in this electrifying West End show, based on the iconic 1985 blockbuster film. 
8. See the multi-award-winning new musical Standing at the Sky's Edge at the Gillian Lynne Theatre: This heartfelt tribute to the city of Sheffield follows the hopes and dreams of three generations across six tumultuous decades.
9. Witness the dazzling musical Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club: Step into the vibrant underground scene of 1930s Berlin in this electrifying immersive theatre experience at the Playhouse Theatre. Be captivated by jaw-dropping performances as the Kit Kat Club comes alive with a series of daring and unforgettable acts. 
10. Get in loser, it's time to see Mean Girls at the Savoy Theatre: The infamous girl gang, The Plastics, rule North Shore High and will burn anyone who gets in their way. This sharp, hilarious musical adaptation of the cult classic film brings drama and wit to the London West End.

Looking for more theatre inspiration? Check out our monthly recommendations for the best musicals and plays. 

What are the best exhibitions in London this summer?

1. See artwork come to life before your very eyes at Frameless: Travel beyond reality and into the worlds of famous artists such as Van Gogh, Rubens and Monet. Marvel as paintings evolve around you in a dynamic display.
2. Experience the vibrant urban life of Seoul at the Delight Media Art Exhibition: Immerse yourself in a multisensory journey where light, visuals and sound effects recreate the bustling atmosphere of South Korea's capital.
3. Head to the King's Gallery to see the latest exhibition Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography: Discover an extensive collection showcasing the transformative impact of photography on the public's perception of the royal family, revealing how this art form has shaped and evolved their image over the past century.
4. New this summer, immerse yourself in the exclusive Princess Diana Photography Exhibition: Wander through a gallery where never-before-seen images of the princess are shown and hear firsthand accounts from her photographers as they reminisce about pivotal life events captured through their lenses.
5. Spend a day exploring some of London's top free museums: Wander the spectacular hallways of the Natural History Museum and marvel at historic dinosaur skeletons, and see how scientists and engineers have changed the way we live our day to day lives at the Science Museum.
6. Explore the Royal Academy of Arts’ Summer Exhibition: Experience an annual celebration of art and creativity, with over 1,200 art pieces on show from print to sculptures, many from up-and-coming artists. 18 Jun-18 Aug
7. Don't miss Fragile Beauty at the V&A: Immerse yourself in an unparalleled collection of photographs from the Sir Elton John and David Furnish Collection, delving into captivating narratives across fashion, celebrity, reportage and the male body. 18 May-5 Jan
8. Encounter Yoko Ono: Music of the Mind at Tate Modern: Explore participatory work of world-famous artist and campaigner for world peace. See over 200 art pieces, including films, installations and music, from the 1950s to present day – including her years in London where she met John Lennon. 15 Feb-1 Sep
9. Or head to the newly reopened Young V&A Museum: Delve into Japanese history and culture at Japan: Myths to Manga. From iconic anime films to avant garde fashion, delve into the rich tapestry of Japan's artistic landscape. But hurry, this captivating journey lasts only until 25 Jun.
10. Visit the new exhibition Now You See Us, Women Artists in Britain 1520-1920 at the Tate Britain: This exhibition traces the journey of women artists who defied societal norms from the Tudor era to the First World War. Discover the remarkable works of iconic artists such as Mary Beale, Angelica Kauffman, Elizabeth Butler, and Laura Knight – trailblazers who paved the way for future generations of women artists.
11. Journey to outer space at the annual Astronomy Photographer of the Year at the National Maritime Museum: Immerse yourself in galaxies, suns and silver moons captured through the lens of exceptional photography. 
12. Explore the extraordinary Six Lives: The Stories of Henry VIII's Queens at the National Portrait Gallery: See Tudor paintings by famous court painter Hans Holbein the Younger and delve into the fascinating lives and legacies of Henry VIII's six queens. 20 Jun-8 Sep
13. Marvel at Paula Rego: Crivelli's Garden at the National Gallery: See depictions of the courageous strong women from Rego's life portrayed in this impressive painting. From 20 Jul
14. Celebrate the 65th anniversary of Barbie with a captivating exhibition at the Design Museum: Explore the evolution of this iconic doll through rare archives showcasing beloved designs from throughout her history. 5 Jul-23 Feb

Check our latest museum and gallery recommendations for more summer 2024 inspiration.

Summer days out in London

What better way to make the most of the warmer months than by enjoying memorable summer days out in London? Get together with friends and family in London and wander the city's lush green parks, uncover its top hidden gems on a guided tour, and dance the night away at its buzzing rooftop bars and pop-up summer events.

1. Summer is the best time to spot roses in bloom at Kew Gardens: Wander the Great Broad Walk Borders and seek out colourful flower gardens. Don't miss the iconic Palm House, where lush tropical species thrive, and head to the treetop walkway for a panoramic 360-degree view, soaring 18 metres above ground.
2. Marvel at pretty city views on one of London’s best bus tours: Climb aboard a double-decker Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour and take in city views before getting off at your favourite locations. Or indulge in a panoramic tour aboard the Bustronome to enjoy British cuisine with a gastronomic twist while taking in the sights of London.
3. Embark on an adrenaline-pumping Thames Rocket speedboat tour along the River Thames: Feel the rush of wind as you zip past London's iconic landmarks, taking in breathtaking views from a unique perspective. It's the perfect adventure for families and thrill-seekers alike.
4. Explore the city on foot with a guided walking tour of London: Discover the city's hidden gems like the Underground secret tunnels, unleash your inner foodie with a visit to Borough Market, delve into movie filming locations at the Old Royal Naval College, and explore royal hotspots.
5. Or head out on a treasure hunt with CityDays: Work together or go head-to-head, solving clues, riddles and puzzles on an urban adventure across London. 
6. See the variety of exotic animals at London Zoo by Regent's Park: Encounter meerkats, penguins, lions and more up close. Extend your visit with Zoo Nights, an exclusive experience after hours. Join knowledgeable guides for insights into wildlife before indulging in delicious specialties from around the world at the Wild Bites street food market. (Adults-only event. Book your ticket now).
7. Get some of the best uninterrupted views in London: Get your adrenaline fix as you scale new heights with the Up at The O2 overlooking the financial district Canary Wharf. Alternatively, venture to east London and ascend the roof of the football fans' favorite, Dare Skywalk at Tottenham Stadium.
8. Check out the top London summer date ideas: Whether it's a romantic spot for a first date or a fun outdoor experience to enjoy together, there's something for everyone. Watch a captivating play under the stars at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, or discover exquisite views of London's skyline at Sky Garden, complete with live music on select nights.
9. Explore the Kyoto Garden in Holland Park: Relax in the picturesque Japanese garden with its vibrant plants and soothing water features. Walk around the peaceful pond filled with colourful Japanese koi carps and and keep an eye out for the majestic peacocks gracefully roaming the gardens.
10. Grab a blanket and your best picnic hamper before heading to the city’s leafy parks: Find the perfect spot to sunbathe and have a go on a pedalo in Hyde Park, or wander through Richmond Park to spot the resident deer roaming freely.
11. Take a breath of fresh air outside of London bustling centre: Treat your kids to endless fun at Hobbledown, home to one of the largest indoor play areas, where they can meet adorable furry friends like goats, meerkats and capybaras. Connect with nature at Walthamstow Wetlands, a vast nature reserve boasting tranquil reservoirs perfect for observing a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. 
12. Have a day pumped up with adrenaline at Thorpe Park as you go on thrill seeking rides: Test the limits of reality on the Ghost Train before hoping on the UK's fastest ride, Stealth. 
13. Make a splash when the mercury rises: Take a dip in one of the city’s azure-blue lidos. Experience the thrill of swimming at London's only heated outdoor pool at London Fields Lido, or challenge yourself with a dive into one of London's longest lanes, stretching 60 metres at Parliament Hill Lido. Venture to Hampstead Heath and enjoy wild swimming in the leafy surroundings of the bathing ponds.    
14. Snuggle up during a summer film at one of London’s great outdoor cinemas: Check out Rooftop Film Club’s iconic venues, or hop in the car for a drive-in cinema experience. 
15. Hop on your bike and ride some of London's best cycle paths: Discover the hidden corners of London while on the Secret London Bike Tour. Follow your guide along the scenic river Thames, making stops to uncover the fascinating history of the capital. 
16. Walk up Primrose Hill for sweeping views of Regent’s Park and the London skyline: For the perfect shot, don’t miss the William Blake quote etched into the stone at the top: “I have conversed with the spiritual sun. I saw him on Primrose Hill.”

Summer food and drink in London

1. Make the most of the long summer evenings at The View from The Shard: Sip on champagne cocktails at London's tallest attraction. Indulge in a fine dining experience at one of the Shard's restaurants, such as TĪNG and its modern cuisine with an Asian twist, or Hutong, boasting flavours of northern China. Stop at Aqua Shard on the 31st floor, a contemporary British restaurant with spectacular views over London. 
2. Discover some of the city’s best rooftop bars for sunset drinks: Experience killer views from The Nest at Treehouse London Hotel, or catch the sunset over St Paul's Cathedral from Madison's rooftop bar. Alternatively, head to Shoreditch and visit the trendy Queen of Hoxton, an oasis nestled between buildings, renowned for its eclectic events and creative cocktails.
3. Sit outside and enjoy a meal in the summer sunshine: Experience some of London's best alfresco restaurants. Enjoy a set of delightful French flavours at penthouse and rooftop restaurant Coq d'Argent, or elevate your dining experience at Sushisamba London, where colourful Japanese-Brazilian-Peruvian-fusion cuisine reigns supreme from the 38th and 39th floors of the Heron Tower.
4. Hop aboard a boat and indulge in a London Dinner Cruise: Savour a four course meal as you take in the sights from the Thames. Enjoy stunning views of landmarks such as Big Ben and Tower Bridge as you dine, making for an unforgettable evening on the Thames.
5. Feast on all things Italian at Eataly in Broadgate: Explore the market for authentic products from all regions of Italy, including fresh focaccia and prosciutto. Enjoy wood-fired pizzas and antipasti at one of three restaurants, or take your culinary skills to the next level with a cooking class, where you can learn to make fresh pasta, sourdough pizza, and tiramisù.
6. This summer, eat your way through London's food markets: Devour steaming ramen and other street food delights at a former church turned food market Mercato Mayfair. Enjoy street food bites from KERB traders at Seven Dials Market, or head to Mercato Metropolitano, featuring food counters from around the globe.
7. On weekends, visit the colourful Maltby Street Market: Find a mix options all in one place from crepes, Mexican empanadas, banh mi, cheese toasties, and many more mouthwatering options.
8. Head to Lost in Brixton and satisfy all your cravings with food from downstairs Brixton Village: Chill with a local beer or a colourful spritzer, while waiting for your food to be brought straight to your table. Who said you couldn't have it all? 
9. Craving some pastries? Explore London's little French corner: Aux Pains de Papy delights Londoners with its award-winning croissants, traditional pastries, and crusty baguettes. Discover the oldest patisserie in London, Maison Bertaux, nestled in the heart of Soho, offering a tempting selection of fruit tarts and chocolate éclairs. Indulge in the soft chocolate brioche or shiny, airy meringues coated with chocolate cream from Aux Merveilleux de Fred, an artisanal pastry shop that's well worth the detour.

London summer festivals

1. Soak up the atmosphere at the iconic Royal Albert Hall: Enjoy stunning summer performances from musical concerts to the world-famous proms. See iconic artists take the stage including the incomparable Cindy Lauper, seven times Grammy winner Gladys Knight, and Italian pianist and renowned film score composer Ludivico Einaudi, known for his work on This Is England.
2. Don't miss show-stopping performances at BST Festival in Hyde Park: This year's line up include Kings of Leon, Andrea Bocelli, Robbie WIlliams, Shania Twain and many others. 28 Jun-14 Jul
3. Get your wellness fix at Fearne Cotton's Happy Place Festival: Attend mental health talks by inspiring speakers, podcast recordings including Fearne Cotton’s Happy Place podcast, book signings, restorative workshops such as yoga and sound healing and much more. 13-14 Jul
4. See one of the prettiest parts of town at the Notting Hill Carnival: Dance to the sounds of steel bands, tuck into Caribbean jerk chicken and watch the colourful parade make its way through the streets of west London. Marvel at Brazilian and Mas bands parading, visit the live stages, and enjoy a fantastic lineup of artists ranging from local bands to superstars. 24-26 Aug
5. Celebrate London's LGBTQ+ community at the colourful Pride in London parade: Sing and dance along, as more than 300 floats wind their way through central London. Look out for a variety events taking place across London, from film screenings, to talks and workshops, not to forget Pride swim at the London Aquatic Centre. Keep a look out for events here. 29 Jun
6. Head to Somerset House for an exciting program of the Summer Series: Enjoy 11 nights of live music in Somerset House's historic courtyard, featuring a mix of emerging artists and well-known acts. 11-21 Jul
7. Enjoy a summer spectacular at the Greenwich + Docklands International Festival 2024: From street art and circus acts to light installations and dance performances, immerse yourself in London's diverse culture at this free family-friendly festival. 25 Aug-10 Sep
8. Venture to Trafalgar Square to celebrate Canada Day in London: Fun for the whole family, tuck into classic Canadian dishes, including iconic poutine and lobster rolls, enjoy top entertainment from live performers and test your hockey playing skills at NHL Global Fan Tour. 30 Jun
9. Head to Phantom Peak as immersive city opens for the summer season: Join this immersive experience and interact with local residents hosting various activities including their own summer Olympics, ten groundbreaking trails and cabin games. 

London life by the water

1. Hop aboard a riverboat for a relaxing ride along the Thames: Take in iconic sights as you journey along the Thames from Westminster to Greenwich aboard one of London's Uber Boats by Thames Clipper.
2. Fill your Instagram feed with snaps of Little Venice’s charming canal: Stroll along the Regent’s Canal towards Camden and Regent’s Park, or float down the waterways on a canal boat. Admire the houseboats as you glide down the canal, and enjoy unique waterside scenery that make this area a must-visit spot in London.
3. Chill out in the sunshine at one of the hip drinking spots close to Camden Market: If you’re feeling peckish, browse the tasty bites on offer at the market's food stalls. End the day at the Jazz Café, where both up-and-coming musicians and jazz legends take the stage. Book your tickets here for upcoming gigs.
4. Soak up the sun in a floating hot tub with Skuna Boats: Wave at passers-by while cruising down some of London’s canals from Canary Wharf. For a unique dining experience, hop aboard your private Skuna BBQ Boat and grill burgers, kebabs, and more (food packages available to buy, or bring your own).
5. Unleash your adventurous side: Explore Hammersmith or Richmond during a stand-up paddle boarding session with Active 360 on the river Thames. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, this is the perfect way to experience the Thames.
6. Explore central London and kayak on the river Thames on a guided tour with the London Kayak Company: Experience the capital like never before as you follow your guide paddling past historic landmarks. 
7. Enjoy drinks by the river: Sip on a craft beer from Hackney’s trendy canalside microbrewery Crate, or head to one of the riverside pubs and bars lining South Bank.

Summer shopping in London

1. Spend a day perusing the 160 luxury-brand boutique outlets of Bicester Village: Enjoy some retail therapy just a short train ride away from London.
2. Head to elegant Regent Street for world-class dining, lifestyle and shopping: Discover high-street fashion brands like Burberry, Kate Spade and Mango, plus there are plenty of independent shops to discover on the side streets.
3. And don't miss Bond Street in Mayfair: Head to the home to ultra-luxury fashion just around the corner from Oxford Street. Or hop around artisan shops and boutiques in St James's: Explore the historic area known for high-end fashion and numerous stores with the Royal Warrant.
4. Explore vibrant Carnaby Street: Ideal for fashion lovers looking for concept stores, designer clothes, trendy footwear and colourful shopfronts. If you’re not in a retail-therapy mood, there is also plenty of food to enjoy from Carnaby’s restaurants.
5. Take a wander in the piazza at Covent Garden: A foodie paradise and one of the best shopping destinations in London's West End. Look for classy items in the market while soothed by the sound of opera singers performing. Then stroll around Seven Dials: Where independent boutiques, classy cafes and picturesque courtyards collide. 
6. Stop by Coal Drops Yard in King's Cross: Shop for niche brands and enjoy a latte and cakes at its many cafes. 
7. Peruse London’s top markets: Find food, flowers, modern art, clothes and more.
8. Rummage through charity shops and the city’s best vintage fashion shops: London is a temple for secondhand fashion and hidden shopping gems.

Enjoy a summer of sport in London

1. Don't miss The Wimbledon Championship where the world's tennis icons take to centre court: Experience incredible matches and entertainment at this action-packed event. If you haven't secured a coveted ticket, join the morning queue for a chance to purchase a ground pass and enjoy the excitement from the outer courts. 1-14 Jul
2. Cheer on your favourite team during the Euro 2024 Championships: Meet fellow fans at Flat Iron Square where every match is broadcasted on as much as 18 screens.
3. Get ready to immerse yourself in the excitement of the Paris Olympics right here in London: Cheer for Team GB at the fanzone in Grosvenor Square, or head to Belgravia's Eccleston Yards for an unforgettable summer of sport and screenings of the Paris Olympics and the England Test Match Cricket. Indulge in a delicious array of street food offerings while you soak up the sporting atmosphere. 26 Jul-11 Aug
4. Live the ultimate football fan dream at Wembley Stadium: Embark on a guided tour of England's national stadium. Explore the grounds, visit the players' changing rooms, and envision the legends who walked through the tunnel onto the pitch. 
5. Be thrilled as the 2024 London E-Prix crowns this season's champions at the ExCel London: See teams go wheel-to-wheel when the ABB FIA Formula E Championship comes to the Royal Docks this summer exhibiting the best of sustainable motor sports. 20-21 Jul
6. Venture to the Kia Oval and Lord's Cricket Ground: Enjoy a season of incredible local and international cricket. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to the sport, this is your chance to experience the passion and excitement of cricket at its finest.

If you’re still hungry for more things to do this summer, find top tips for things to do in London this weekend and things to do today. Or find on-the-go ideas by downloading the Visit London app.