Why you should stay in London this summer

Posted 1 month ago

Here's our top 10 things to tick off your bucket list

Having endured a London winter (well done!), you're now ready to dive into all the incredible experiences this city delivers during the sunnier season, particularly if you're sticking around for the summer months. From outdoor theatre performances to stunning terrace venues to delicious market eats, along with loads more adventures, summer in London is absolutely magical and offers something to suit every taste. 😎

👉 Need a room for the summer? Find out how you can extend your stay in UAL halls over the summer.

1. Hit up London's art scene 🎨

London's galleries, museums and pop-up events are unreal in summer. From free exhibitions to the outdoor BST festival in Hyde Park and the Proms at the Royal Albert Hall, there's always something on. Get out there and explore!

2. Walk through 3,000+ parks (yes, really) 🌿

London is way greener than you'd think. The Royal Parks, including Hyde, Richmond, Greenwich, St James' and Regent's, are the obvious picks, but Hampstead Heath and Victoria Park are worth the trip too. Grab some food, find a patch of grass and make a day of it. 🌞

Regent's Park is also running it's summer Open Air Theatre! Relax and enjoy a show in the sun.

3. Find your lido this summer 🏊

Beat the heat at one of London's outdoor pools. Brockwell, Tooting Bec, London Fields and Parliament Hill Lido are solid choices for a social swim. Feeling adventurous? Try the Hampstead Heath Ponds or Beckenham Place Lake for wild swimming, or go big at Royal Docks for open water. 🌊

4. Enjoy great eats 🍜

London's food scene is elite. Borough Market, Brick Lane and Camden Market are all worth a visit. In summer, food truck pop-ups also take over the city. They're cheap, delicious and often with live music. What's not to love?

5. Enjoy great views at rooftop bars 🍹

Goldern hour from a rooftop is chef's kiss 🤌. Sky Garden, Madison and Radio Rooftop are the classics in central London. 

6. Catch a live sporting event 🏟️

If you're a sports fan, you'll know that London hosts a series of major annual sporting events during summer, ranging from Wimbledon to the London ePrix to the NFL International Series.

Securing tickets might be tricky (and pricey), but it will be worth it if you want to soak up some rays while getting amongst the crowds in the sporting capital of the world.

8. Get into the spirit at Notting Hill Carnival

Known as one of the greatest annual street festivals on the planet, the Notting Hill Carnival is one event not to miss. Originally started by the Caribbean community in London, every year on 31 August (a Bank Holiday) there is an explosion of colour, joy and cultural celebration in the streets of Notting Hill. 

9. Comedy nights in Soho

Soho Comedy Factory runs regular stand-up nights at The Blue Posts. Tickets start from just £8!  Book ahead to guarantee your seat for a night of entertainment in the heart of London.

10. Discover new shows at The West End Live 🎭

Being in the city that lives and breathes musicals, West End Live is one of London's most celebrated annual events. Hosted in Trafalgar Square every summer, you can enjoy new shows for FREE! in this open-air extravaganza. Check the official website for this year's dates and book ahead.

👉 Need a room for the summer? Find out how you can extend your stay in UAL halls over the summer.