The 50 Best Things to Do in London This Summer

London in summer is simply electric; a vibrant time when the city hums with energy, filling every corner with sunshine, good cheer, and exciting possibilities! If you're looking for fun activities in London to fill those long days and balmy evenings, you've landed in the perfect place. From creative workshops that spark your imagination to delicious foodie adventures, lively festivals, and serene green escapes, the capital offers something for everyone. 

This guide is your ultimate go-to for discovering the best things to do in London this summer, promising unforgettable moments and brilliant memories. Get ready to explore 50 top-tier activities that will make your summer truly spectacular!

Crafting connections: Get creative with arty London activities

Summer is the perfect season to get hands-on and spark your artistic side! London is brimming with incredible creative workshops where you can learn a new skill and craft something beautiful. Whether you fancy getting messy with clay, upcycling old clothes or designing your own unique accessories, there's a unique experience just waiting to ignite your imagination!

1. Dive into a mosaic making class 

Spend a happy few hours learning to create dazzling patterns with colourful mosaic tiles in a lovely London studio. You'll pick up precise cutting and placing techniques, and leave with a sparkling, handmade coaster or small panel you can proudly display at home – or gift to a loved one!

2. Explore a stained glass workshop

Discover the intricate beauty of traditional leaded stained glass in a special one-day workshop. You’ll learn to cut, grind, and solder vibrant glass pieces, transforming them into a radiant, light-catching piece of art that truly impresses. From the sense of timeless craftsmanship to walking away with your own gorgeous creation, this is one of the best things to do in London for crafters.

3. Try a pottery throwing class 

Get wonderfully messy with clay and learn to shape your own unique pot or bowl on the potter’s wheel in London – you can even BYOB for extra giggles and fun! We think you'll love the tactile experience of the clay in your hands and the joy of seeing your creation come to life, making it a wonderfully memorable London experience.

4. Make your own accessories at a jewellery making workshop

Craft a unique silver ring or a beautiful pendant in an expert-led London workshop, where you’ll get hands-on with traditional materials and tools, designing your own wearable art from scratch. This is the activity for you if you want to create a bespoke accessory that perfectly fits your style – whether you’re into bohemian vibes or beautifully simple contemporary jewellery, anything goes!

5. Transform shoes with an upcycling workshop 

Give those old shoes a glorious new lease of life with decoupage in a fun London upcycling workshop. You’ll learn clever techniques to transform them into unique, artistic statements with fabric and glue, making them far too pretty to hide! From the sustainable aspect to the joy of creating something original from something old, there’s lots to love here.

6. Craft personalised accessories at a leathercraft class

Spend a rewarding time crafting a beautiful cardholder and keyring in a London leathercraft workshop, personalising them with stamps, dyes, or hand stitching. You’ll spend a happy few hours learning some new skills and creating a lovely handmade item – perfect for keeping those cards safe or gifting to a lucky loved one!

7. Create custom candles at a Bendy Boy workshop

Enjoy a cool candle making class in London, where you’ll learn to bend, curve and paint completely bespoke, colourful candles for your home. Led by a candle pro, you’ll spend an evening enjoying a chilled out vibe, tasty drinks and a little creativity with some like-minded crafters – what’s not to love?

8. Attend a life drawing session 

Explore artistic expression and hone those sketching skills at a local London studio with a life drawing class. You'll find it a brilliantly focused and therapeutic experience that sharpens your eye and offers a unique perspective on the human form. It's a great way to tap into your inner creative and appreciate art from a new angle, without any pressure – relax, unwind and draw the night away!

9. Join a screen-printing taster session

Master this popular technique at The Chocolate Factory Studios, where you'll get hands-on creating your own custom prints on fabric. From designing stencils to expertly pulling vibrant inks across the screen, your friendly teacher will guide you through the whole process, and you’ll leave with your very own tote bag or tea towel. We think this is a standout London activity for graphic art lovers!

10. Enjoy a street art tour 

Explore the East End’s vibrant murals on a guided tour, discovering incredible outdoor artworks and their hidden stories, followed by a spray painting session. This experience lets you capture the city's dynamic street art in your own unique style, turning observation into creation. It’s a brilliant way to combine sightseeing with hands-on creativity – and it’s hands down one of the best things to do in London for urban art lovers!

Flavour journeys: Delicious food and drink experiences

London's culinary scene truly comes alive in the summer, offering a mouth-watering array of food and drink adventures perfect for your summer plans. Whether you're a keen chef or simply love to indulge your taste buds, there's a delicious experience waiting to be savoured.

11. Master hand-pulled noodles at a Chinese cooking class

Dive into a Chinese cooking class in London and learn how to make amazing hand-pulled Biang Biang noodles from scratch. You'll love the satisfying rhythm of the dough work and the delicious reward of a truly authentic, fresh meal you created – it’s a wonderfully tasty London activity for aspiring chefs and foodies alike!

12. Try a French macaron baking workshop 

Sweeten your day with a few delicate handmade French macarons at this baking class in London, where you’ll master the art of creating these famously tricky but incredibly delicious treats. From immersing yourself in the precision of perfecting those delicate shells to sampling your hard work and impressing your friends (if there’s any left to share!), we think this is a great way to spend a summer afternoon. 

13. Enjoy a churros on a houseboat experience

Fancy a super unique and utterly charming culinary experience this summer? Step aboard a delightful houseboat in London for a special churros and chocolate making class! Permanently moored on a picturesque canal, this cosy venue offers a distinctive setting for getting hands-on with sweet treats. You’ll learn to pipe and fry your own wonderfully crispy churros, then indulge in them warm and perfectly dipped in rich, melted chocolate. 

14. Craft fresh pasta with Prosecco

Say cheers to Italian cooking with a fresh pasta class complete with bottomless Prosecco! We reckon you'll love learning to make delicious pasta shapes from scratch – think silky tagliatelle or delicate ravioli – perfect for entertaining friends and family, and a delightful experience for foodies who love a bit of sparkle.

15. Embark on a Borough Market food crawl

Explore this bustling gourmet market for a fantastic food adventure, sampling diverse street food and artisanal products from around the world. It’s a delicious, no-fuss way to explore the city’s culinary heart and ranks among the best activities in London for foodies seeking authentic flavours.

16. Take a craft beer tour 

Experience a refreshing craft beer brewery tour in the city, learning about the brewing process from grain to glass and enjoying tastings of local brews. The perfect London activity for beer enthusiasts, you’ll discover new favourite tipples, get a real understanding of the art of brewing and meet lots of fellow beer lovers to clink glasses with!

17. Indulge in a themed afternoon tea 

Treat yourself to an immersive afternoon tea experience at one of London's iconic themed hotels. It’s a delightful blend of tradition, indulgence, and whimsical charm, making it ideal for a special, memorable treat that feels wonderfully luxurious – plus, who doesn’t love those adorable, tiny cakes?

18. Picnic on Murray’s Mound

Fancy combining delicious al fresco dining with one of London's most iconic sporting backdrops this summer? Then grab some tickets and head over to Murray's Mound at Wimbledon and take your picnic game to a whole new level! You’ll find the perfect spot on this famous grassy bank, spreading out your blanket, soaking up the atmosphere and tucking into your favourite treats. 

19. Dine in delight at The Cheese Barge on Regent's Canal

Fancy a unique culinary experience that’s utterly charming and deliciously different? Head over to The Cheese Barge, permanently moored on London’s Regent's Canal in Paddington. You’ll enjoy a delightful menu celebrating the very best of British cheese, served up in inventive and incredibly tasty ways – think baked brie, grilled cheese sandwiches elevated to an art form, and exquisite cheese boards. 

20. Go on a global food tour 

Take a vibrant global food tour through Brixton Market, sampling international delights and soaking up diverse culinary cultures. It’s a total sensory feast and a fun way to travel the world in one afternoon, making it one of the best things to do in London for adventurous eaters who love new flavours and cultural immersion.

Rhythm and revelry: Concerts, festivals and the arts

Summer in London wouldn't be complete without its incredible line-up of live events, promising rhythm, revelry, and unforgettable entertainment! From vast outdoor concerts to intimate pub gigs and vibrant street celebrations, the city offers a symphony of experiences for everyone to enjoy.

21. Step back in time with a classic play at the Globe

Fancy a theatrical experience that’s steeped in history this summer? Head over to Shakespeare's Globe on the South Bank to enjoy a captivating performance of a classic play, under the glorious summer sky. It’s a great way to soak up the magic of live theatre, feeling the energy of the crowd and appreciating the timeless storytelling in this iconic London setting.

22. Experience Notting Hill Carnival 

Get swept up in the colourful energy, booming music, and spectacular parade of Notting Hill Carnival in late August, a vibrant street party like no other. This is one of the most iconic London activities for an unforgettable cultural immersion and a massive street party vibe.  

23. Catch contemporary open-air theatre

Ditch the cinema and enjoy an enchanting open-air theatre performance in Regent's Park this summer instead. We think you’ll love the magical atmosphere of live theatre under the stars on a warm evening, making it one of the best things to do in London for culture lovers seeking something special and beautifully unique.

24. Enjoy the summer exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts

Fancy immersing yourselves in a vibrant explosion of contemporary art this summer? Then head over to the Royal Academy of Arts in Piccadilly for its spectacular annual summer exhibition! You’ll be able to explore a unique collection of works by artists from all walks of life, from celebrated names to exciting emerging talents, all hanging side-by-side. It’s a wonderfully inspiring spot to soak up fresh creativity, discover new favourites, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the world's largest open-submission art show in an iconic London setting.

25. Take in a Proms concert 

Experience the grandeur of a classical music concert at the Royal Albert Hall. We think it’s such a joy to be part of this celebrated summer tradition, whether you stand in the arena or sit in the stalls; you’ll be utterly swept away by the breathtaking acoustics and the powerful performances. It’s one of the top ten things to do in London for classical music fans who appreciate grand, inspiring performances and a genuinely iconic London setting.

26. Dive into a Food Festival 

Explore vibrant food festivals like those at Hampton Court Palace or Wimbledon Park, sampling delicious street food and gourmet treats from a huge array of vendors. A fantastic way to indulge your taste buds and soak up a lively, buzzing atmosphere, perfect for foodies and fun-seekers.

27. Catch a captivating Shakespearean play at Kenwood House

Experience the timeless magic of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night performed live at Kenwood House, nestled on Hampstead Heath this summer. Pack up a picnic, spread out on the rolling lawns and spend a few hours soaking up an atmospheric performance – now that’s what we call a memorable evening!

28. Explore Cecil Beaton's Garden Party at the Garden Museum

Fancy an artistic escape this summer? Head over to the Garden Museum for their Cecil Beaton's Garden Party exhibition, where you can explore the artist's lesser-known passion for gardening, and see how his celebrated eye for design extended to his magnificent outdoor spaces. It’s a beautifully curated exhibit in a tranquil setting, perfect for soaking up inspiration and enjoying a calm, contemplative afternoon amidst historical beauty.

29. Watch an outdoor cinema screening 

Enjoy a film under the stars at iconic spots such as The Rooftop Film Club or the Sculpture Court at the Barbican this year. Settle back, put your feet up and enjoy the atmospheric experience of watching a movie al fresco on a warm summer night. A glorious way to relax at the end of a hot day!

30. Discover emerging artists at an open mic

Fancy experiencing raw creativity and spotting future stars in London’s vibrant music scene? Head along to one of the city’s many wonderful open mic nights, dotted across cosy pubs and intimate venues! You’ll get to witness talented local musicians, poets, and comedians bravely sharing their work in a wonderfully supportive atmosphere. It’s a fantastic, low-key way to soak up genuine passion and discover something truly fresh and exciting any night of the week.

Green and growing: The best things to do in London for nature lovers

Escape the urban buzz and reconnect with nature's beauty with these serene and engaging London activities! Summer is the perfect time to explore the city's lush green spaces and discover your inner naturalist, combining fresh air with delightful learning opportunities.

31. Craft a seasonal Ikebana arrangement 

Delve into the art of floral design with a seasonal Ikebana flower arranging workshop in London, where you'll get to relax, unwind and create something beautiful. This Japanese art is all about creating simple, striking floral displays that capture the quiet essence of nature; you’ll learn to arrange seasonal flowers and branches with real care, getting a feel for balance and harmony, and understanding the thought behind every placement.

32. Build a miniature garden

Fancy creating your own little world that’s full of green goodness? A terrarium masterclass is a charming way to get wonderfully hands-on and bring a slice of nature right into your home. You'll get to pick out tiny plants, carefully arrange colourful layers of soil and pebbles, and pop in some whimsical bits and bobs to craft a beautiful, self-contained ecosystem inside a glass container. 

33. Enjoy a beekeeping experience 

Ever wondered what goes on inside a beehive? A beekeeping experience in the city is a fascinating way to get a unique peek into the secret life of these vital insects and learn about urban honey production. You'll pop on some protective gear and get to safely observe a real beehive up close, discovering all about the queen bee, busy worker bees, and how their whole colony works. 

34. Cultivate Your Green Thumb 

If you’ve ever fancied getting your hands a bit earthy and growing some of your own delicious produce, a gardening class is a fantastic place to start! This practical workshop teaches you all the essential gardening skills, from getting your soil ready and happily sowing seeds to nurturing tiny seedlings and eventually harvesting your own scrumptious crops. 

35. Tour a flower market and make a bouquet 

Start your day with a burst of colour and fragrance with a flower market tour followed by a bouquet workshop led by a fabulous local florist. You'll get to soak up the bustling, aromatic atmosphere of an iconic flower market, picking up brilliant tips on choosing the freshest blooms directly from knowledgeable florists, and then transform your market finds into a stunning, hand-tied bouquet.

36. Explore Kew Gardens 

Ready for a truly immersive escape into nature's wonderland? Spending a day at the Kew Gardens is an absolute treat for anyone who loves plants and peaceful exploration. You can happily wander through stunning glasshouses, explore incredibly diverse plant collections from all corners of the globe, and discover botanical wonders around every corner. 

37. Go deer spotting in Richmond Park 

If you’re into all things nature and animals, you need to head off for a stroll through Richmond Park, where you can spot deer in their natural habitat. Enjoy the tranquil escape, watch wild deer roam freely and even consider taking a wildlife photography class! 

38. Take a canal boat ride 

Ready for a new perspective of London? Then it’s time to hop on a leisurely canal boat ride from Little Venice to Camden Lock! You can sit back and observe life on the water, admire colourful houseboats, and watch the city gently drift by from a unique vantage point. Whether you’re feeling a bit frazzled or just want to escape the bustling city, this is the perfect way to switch off and simply relax for a while.

39. Visit a city farm 

If you fancy connecting with animals and a little bit of rural life without even leaving the capital this summer, head to one of London's charming city farms, like Mudchute Park and Farm or Spitalfields City Farm. You’ll discover a dose of countryside charm, meet friendly farm animals, learn fascinating facts about sustainable farming practices, and just enjoy a relaxed, wholesome atmosphere that feels miles away from the usual city buzz!

40. Go boating in the city 

Ready for a wonderfully refreshing way to see London, all while enjoying the gentle sway of the water? Head to a charming spot like Hyde Park's Serpentine or Regent's Park lake to enjoy some boating or pedalos to glide across the water, taking in picturesque park views and soaking up the summer sunshine!

Rejuvenate and refresh: Wellness and mindful experiences

Summer is a fantastic time to hit refresh and focus on your wellbeing, and the city offers some wonderful places to do just that! These London activities are designed to soothe your mind, engage your senses, and leave you feeling wonderfully revitalised and completely re-energised.

41. Craft incense jewellery 

Try an incense jewellery making workshop this summer, where you get to blend calming, aromatic ingredients and carefully shape them into beautiful beads or pendants. This workshop combines mindful crafting with sensory engagement, letting you create a fragrant accessory that fills your day with peace and tranquility. 

42. Blend health teas

Ready to explore the therapeutic world of teas? Join a health tea tasting and blending experience in London, and learn all about various botanicals, herbs, and tea bases, discovering their flavour profiles and wellness properties. Led by a tea connoisseur, you’ll spend the session blending ingredients and creating teas to suit specific moods or health goals. 

43. Learn Gua Sha facial massage

Discover ancient techniques for facial wellness with a Gua Sha facial massage class – the perfect way to get that skin glowing! You’ll learn the traditional methods of using a smooth-edged tool to gently massage the face, promoting circulation and relaxation, and will leave feeling genuinely refreshed and rejuvenated. Where do we sign up?

44. Experience cacao and sound healing

Take a breath and immerse yourself in peace this summer, with a cacao ceremony and sound healing experience. The session typically begins with the warming, heart-opening ritual of consuming ceremonial cacao, followed by a journey of deep relaxation, where soothing vibrations from gongs and singing bowls gently wash over you. You’ll find it quietens the mind's chatter, releases tension, and leaves you with a beautiful sense of profound calm and well-being – much better!

45. Practice outdoor yoga 

Find peace and flexibility in nature with an outdoor yoga session in a London park this summer; the glorious sunshine, the green spaces and some deep breathing – heaven! Try looking for local public classes, gather your gang or be brave and go it alone – it’ll be worth it, we promise! 

46. Meditate in a city garden 

Fancy a truly peaceful escape from all the city buzz? Pop into a tranquil city garden, like the stunning Kyoto Garden in Holland Park, for a self-led meditation session. You can chill out, soak in the natural beauty, listen to the gentle sounds of nature, and focus on your breathing. It's an easy way to clear your head, ditch some stress, and enjoy a quiet moment of calm in a gorgeous green spot.

47. Attend a beginner's mindfulness session 

If you want to get a handle on inner calm and some de-stressing methods, check out a beginner's mindfulness or meditation class! Loads of free options are available all over London, so it’s easy to find one that suits you. You’ll pick up simple, practical tools to help you find daily serenity and a calmer mind, focusing on exercises that help you really notice the present moment. 

48. Try a floatation tank experience

Ready for a unique way to completely switch off and chill out? Give a floatation tank experience a go! You’ll spend a session floating effortlessly in a shallow pool of Epsom-salt-rich water, usually in a dark, silent pod. This amazing experience lets your body and mind totally decompress, melting away all tension and stress.

49. Try Tai Chi and forest bathing at Kew Gardens

Ready for a tranquil escape this summer, where you can connect with nature and find your inner calm? Then you need to head to Kew Gardens for a unique Tai Chi or forest bathing experience! You’ll get to move gently through the beautiful landscapes with graceful Tai Chi forms, or immerse yourself in the mindful practice of Forest Bathing, focusing on your senses amidst the trees. 

50. Swim in a London lido 

If you need to cool off this summer, pop on your swimsuit and head to one of London's picturesque lidos, like London Fields Lido or Hampstead Heath Ponds. You can enjoy a restorative outdoor swim, soak up some sunshine, and get active in a really vibrant, friendly atmosphere. It’s a brilliant way to feel completely refreshed and enjoy a unique urban swimming experience!

So there you have it! 50 of the best things to do in London this summer, offering everything from hands-on creativity and delicious culinary journeys to thrilling live events and moments of pure serenity. Whether you're looking for a mini celebration, a fun day with friends, or simply a treat for yourself, the capital is bursting with possibilities. Go on, make this summer in the city absolutely unforgettable – your adventure awaits!