Alright, my lovelies, get ready for a fantastic week in London! The city is buzzing with that quintessential summer energy, and while the weather can be a bit of a mixed bag – we're expecting some proper sunshine mixed with a chance of showers this week, with temperatures potentially hitting the low 20s – there's absolutely no shortage of incredible experiences to dive into. From vibrant outdoor festivals winding down to exciting new art exhibitions kicking off, London is truly showing off its best this week, offering something for every mood and interest. So, grab your brolly just in case, but prepare for a brilliant time!
Head down to the South Bank for the last weekend of the Free River Stage Festival! This annual outdoor event, running until July 28th, offers a fantastic blend of live music, dance, theatre, and delicious food and drink on a pop-up stage. It's a vibrant, community-focused festival perfect for soaking up the summer atmosphere by the Thames.
Tip: Arrive early, especially on Saturday or Sunday, to snag a good spot near the stage. Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy the shows, but also explore the surrounding Southbank Centre for more unexpected delights.
With summer in full swing, there’s no better way to see London from a different perspective than from the water. Rent your own electric GoBoat and navigate through picturesque Little Venice, Regent's Canal, and even up to Camden Lock. It’s a wonderfully relaxed way to explore, and you're the captain of your own adventure!
Tip: Book your boat in advance, especially for weekend slots. Pack a small picnic and some drinks (yes, you can bring alcohol!) to enjoy onboard for an extra special experience.
When the sun makes an appearance, join the locals and cool off at one of London's fantastic outdoor swimming pools, or lidos. Popular spots like Brockwell Lido or Hampstead Heath Ponds offer refreshing dips and a lovely place to relax and sunbathe.
Tip: Lidos can get very busy on hot days, so consider going early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds. Some require pre-booking, so check their websites before you go.
London's Royal Parks are absolute havens in the summer. Hyde Park offers sprawling green lawns and the Serpentine, while Regent's Park boasts beautiful gardens and views from Primrose Hill. Richmond Park, with its resident deer, feels like a true escape from the city hustle.
Tip: For an epic panoramic view of the London skyline, head up Primrose Hill in Regent's Park, especially around sunset. It's a local favourite for a reason!
Chef Kirk Haworth, a Great British Menu winner, has just opened his highly anticipated plant-based restaurant, Plates, in Shoreditch this July. Expect a playful and innovative menu that truly celebrates the potential of plant-based cuisine in a sleek, modern setting.
Tip: This place is hot right now, so definitely book well in advance if you want to try some of Kirk's award-winning dishes. It's a game-changer for vegan fine dining in London.
Lita, a vibrant new Mediterranean restaurant, has brought sunny, open-fire cooked dishes to Marylebone this summer. Led by Irish chef Luke Ahearne, the seasonal menu focuses on fresh produce, and the restaurant itself offers a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere with an outdoor terrace perfect for summer evenings.
Tip: Ask for a table on the terrace to truly soak up the summer vibes while enjoying their delicious open-fire cooked delights. It's ideal for a relaxed yet chic dinner.
Perched on the 12th floor of the Hilton London Tower Bridge, Savage Garden offers some of London’s most stylish rooftop dining. With bold design, inventive small plates, and expertly crafted cocktails, it’s a fantastic spot for an evening gathering or a special meal with stunning city views.
Tip: While the indoor space is beautiful, the real magic is on the outdoor terrace. Dress up a little – it's a swanky spot! It's also great for pre or post-dinner drinks.
Newly opened this July, Albert's Schloss brings an Alpine-inspired Bavarian beer hall experience right into the heart of Soho. With a lively atmosphere, five bars, a stage, and an on-site bakery, it's a fantastic spot for hearty European food, delicious beers, and lively entertainment.
Tip: Don't miss the freshly baked Bavarian treats from their in-house bakery. It's a great spot for a casual, fun evening with a group, perfect for soaking up the lively atmosphere.
On Friday, July 26th, London Zoo opens its doors exclusively for adults until 10 pm! Enjoy a unique evening experience without the kids, with live music, street food, and bars, all set amongst the incredible animals.
Tip: Book your tickets in advance as these events are incredibly popular and often sell out. It’s a really fun and different way to spend a Friday night in London.
Immerse yourself in history and world-class theatre at Shakespeare's Globe. Experience a play as it would have been performed in Shakespeare's time, often with an open roof and standing 'groundling' tickets available for a truly authentic (and affordable) experience.
Tip: If you opt for a groundling ticket, wear comfortable shoes as you'll be standing for the entire performance. Also, bring a light raincoat – it's an open-air theatre, after all!
As mentioned, the Free River Stage Festival on the South Bank also offers a fantastic evening programme. From music to dance and more, it's a great way to experience London's dynamic arts scene under the stars, completely free of charge.
Tip: Check the schedule online before you go to see which acts are performing in the evening. There's often a great mix of genres, so you might discover your new favourite artist.
Dominique White's 'Deadweight' exhibition at Whitechapel Gallery, running until September 15th, features four colossal sculptures exploring themes of the sea and Blackness. These powerful works, submerged in the Mediterranean during her residency, offer a truly unique and thought-provoking artistic experience.
Tip: Whitechapel Gallery is renowned for its cutting-edge contemporary art. While you're there, take some time to explore the vibrant street art in the surrounding East End neighbourhoods.
From July 10th to August 24th, White Cube Bermondsey presents 'Continuum' by Japanese artist Minoru Nomata. His ultra-quiet, meditative, and surreal paintings of humanless buildings are captivating, depicting solitary structures reaching towards the heavens. It's weird, eerie beauty you won't want to miss.
Tip: White Cube is a huge gallery space, so give yourself plenty of time to wander through the exhibition. Combine your visit with a stroll along Bermondsey Street, known for its independent shops and eateries.
Starting July 27th at the V&A South Kensington, the free Taylor Swift: Songbook Trail celebrates the global pop icon through 16 iconic looks from her personal collection. This exhibition traces her fashion evolution and explores her creative journey and cultural influence.
Tip: This will be incredibly popular! While it's a free trail, expect crowds. Go on a weekday morning right after opening if you want a more serene experience, or embrace the Swiftie energy!
The world's largest open-submission exhibition, the Summer Exhibition, is running at the Royal Academy of Arts until August 18th. It showcases a diverse array of contemporary works by both household names and emerging talent, making it a beloved annual event.
Tip: The RA is perfectly located in Piccadilly. After your dose of art, take a wander through the charming Burlington Arcade for a bit of old-world London charm (and some serious window shopping).
Lose yourself among millennia of human history and culture at the British Museum. Its permanent collection, housing world-famous artifacts like the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles, is completely free to explore, offering endless hours of discovery.
Tip: Don't try to see everything in one go; it's impossible! Pick a few galleries or themes that interest you most and focus on those. The Great Court is also a fantastic spot to simply sit and admire the architecture.
Head to the Southbank Centre and experience Jeppe Hein's much-loved Appearing Rooms fountain. Watch as shooting jets of water create and disappear rooms, offering a playful and refreshing experience, especially on a warmer day.
Tip: It's highly interactive, so don't be shy about running through the 'rooms' – just be prepared to get a little wet! It's a great photo opportunity too.
Home to masterpieces from the likes of Van Gogh, Turner, and Monet, the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square offers an incredible collection of Western European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries, all free to view.
Tip: Take advantage of the free guided tours or audio guides to learn more about the collection. Afterwards, relax in Trafalgar Square and enjoy the street performers.
Embrace the city's riverside beauty with a leisurely stroll along the Thames Path. From iconic landmarks to hidden pubs and picturesque views, there are countless sections to explore, each offering a unique perspective of London.
Tip: For a particularly charming walk, try the stretch from Hammersmith to Chiswick, where you'll pass by beautiful houses, gardens, and traditional riverside pubs. It’s a great way to feel like a local.
The London Wetland Centre in Barnes is hosting a vibrant line-up of festival experiences this summer, designed to bring the world of dragonflies to life. Kids can enjoy pond dipping, adventure play, dragonfly safaris, and creative art workshops.
Tip: Check their schedule for specific workshop times. It’s an engaging way for kids to connect with nature, and the centre has both indoor and outdoor play areas to keep them entertained whatever the weather.
Kew Gardens is always a fantastic family day out, and this summer, they're hosting the Tom Gates EPIC Adventure – a new interactive experience packed with creativity, music, puzzles, and outdoor discovery, all included with your entry.
Tip: Kew is vast, so plan your route to ensure you hit the highlights for your family. There are also cafes and picnic spots if you need a refuel. From July 20th, 'The Wind in the Willows' outdoor adventure also begins here.
For hours of interactive fun, head to WonderLab at The Science Museum in South Kensington. Spread across seven zones, children can interact with real scientific phenomena, see lightning strike, play with forces on giant slides, and travel through space.
Tip: WonderLab is ticketed separately from the free museum entry, so it’s best to book your timed slot online in advance to guarantee entry. It's incredibly popular!
On July 27th and 28th, the Guildhall Gallery offers a fun, interactive family quest that takes you back in time to Roman Londinium. It's a great opportunity to learn about London's ancient history through engaging activities.
Tip: The City of London can be quiet on weekends, making it easier to navigate with children. Combine this with a visit to the nearby Roman Amphitheatre remains, also free to see.
Let the kids run wild at the Diana Memorial Playground in Hyde Park, featuring a huge pirate ship, a sensory trail, and water play areas. It's a magical and engaging space that encourages imaginative play.
Tip: There's often a queue to get in during peak times, but it moves quickly. Pack a towel and a change of clothes if your kids are likely to enjoy the water play!
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