trip to london in august

Visiting London in August (All you need to know)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 21, 2024

What to expect when you visit London in August – weather, what to see and do, what to pack, and answers to frequently asked questions!

If you want to enjoy spending the UK summer in one of the most vibrant cities in the world, visiting London in August is a great option to consider.  People from all around the world head to London all year round but the summer months are particularly popular (with Brits too) so when visiting London in August, you can expect to meet visitors from around the globe.

As in London in July , you’ll still be able to enjoy the many attractions and sights, from the stunning summer flowers and hanging baskets at the parks, public spaces and gardens such as Hyde Park to famous landmarks such as the Royal Albert Hall, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and many more. In the UK summer time, you have more daylight hours to fit it in!

When visiting London in August, you will certainly not be short on things to do. There are many great events that you can enjoy during your time, such as live music events with street food , and open-air cinema.

Daylight Hours

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Top 5 London Tours in August

• 🗝 TOWER OF LONDON – Ceremony of the Keys
• 🪄 HARRY POTTER STUDIOS – Making of Harry Potter Studio + HP walking tour of central London
• ⭐️ PRIVATE TOUR – Discover Real London black cab tour of London
• 🇬🇧 HOP ON HOP OFF BUS – City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• 🥟 FOOD TOUR – Ultimate Food Tour of Borough Market

Visiting London in August – What to Expect

There is so much to see and do when visiting London in August. This is why you need to plan ahead and work out the places you want to visit and the events you’d love to attend during your time in London.

Make sure you pack the right things for your trip to London in August, as you could get some scorching days with plenty of sun and soaring temperatures! Also though do not forget a thin raincoat, you may just need it! Check the weather forecast closer to your holiday to check on the current weather and then pack accordingly.

If you’re visiting London in August, you can look forward to the chance to explore London during the height of summer. Daytime high temperatures average around 20 to 25 Celcius (59 to 77 F) during most of the month.

As seen over recent years, temperatures can soar much higher than this, so you will need a good selection of summer clothes! And plenty of sun cream.  Remember to stay hydrated at all times.

Heading to London in August is perfect if you are looking for long sunny days to explore all the city’s attractions, particularly the outdoor activities. During most of August around 14 to 16 hours of daylight can be expected, depending on weather, with sunrise around around 6 am and sunset around 8:30 pm.

When you head to London in August, you need to make sure you pack appropriately for the hot weather and sunshine. Some of the essentials to pop into your suitcase are:

• Hat or baseball cap for shade
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Suitable Sunblock for skin protection for everyone in the travel party.
• Casual light summer clothes for days out
• Cool but glam summer outfits for evenings out
• Sandals and sensible footwear for walking
• Light jacket or cardigans in case temperatures cool
• An umbrella or thin raincoat.

Visiting London in August – FAQs

Heading to London in August is a great way to enable you to make the most of your visit to the British capital. In fact, many people from around the world and the UK head to London during these summer months to make the most of British summertime in one of the world’s most historic and fascinating cities.

The warm weather and more daylight hours means you can spend time exploring the sights and enjoying open-air events, and you can also look forward to a wide range of August events during your stay.

There are lots of great events you can look forward to when you come to London in August, and this includes the fantastic and famous Notting Hill Carnival which is one of the largest street festivals in the world. 

Also, check for any local festivals happening in August. London often hosts various cultural and music festivals as well as classic British-themed events such as The Great British Beer Festival or the Camden Fringe.

There are also many live performances and live concerts at outdoor venues, as well as outdoor cinemas and pop-up screens.

With so much to see and do, you can expect a full itinerary when you head to London during the summer months. You can take in some world-famous venues and sights, such as the Royal Albert Hall, Camden Town and Regent’s Canal, the Tower of London and Tower Bridge to name but a few! Or relax on a cruise down the famous River Thames.

Also, take some time to explore the West End, where you will find plenty of fun things to do, from shopping at the market to attending a West End theatre .

Explore one of the many vibrant outdoor markets, including Borough Market, Camden Market, and Portobello Road Market. These markets offer a variety of food, crafts, and unique finds for all interests and ages.

Best Things to Do When You Visit London in August.

August is a great time to explore London, as you can take in the beauty of the green spaces with their stunning summer blooms.

Enjoy the many stunning displays with vibrant colours and fabulous floral fragrances with a visit to locations such as:

• Regents Park
• Russell Square
• St James’ Park
• Queen Mary’s Garden in Regent’s Park
• Greenwich Park
• Kew Gardens
• Kensington Gardens
• Hampton Court Palace
• Windsor Castle

August is a great time to enjoy a range of incredible outdoor events and entertainment in London. Some of the options you can consider are:

• Greenwich & Docklands International Festival 2024 – Performing Arts at multiple iconic venues.
• Notting Hill Carnival – A unique festival celebrating Caribbean culture with vibrant parades, music, and delicious food. It takes place over the August Bank Holiday weekend and attracts millions of visitors.
• Regents Park Open air theatre.
• Summer Tours at Kew
• Summer Screens- Canary Wharf
• Field Day Music Festival, Victoria Park.
• Battersea Park in Concert
• Summer Stage at St Martin’s Court
• Summer by the River Festival (3 locations)
• Free Jazz Sundays in Bermondsey Square
• Wembley Park Live.
• Luna Cinema Summer Film Screenings
• The Frozen Festival – Covent Garden, Ice Cream Festival.

Of course, when you head to London in summer, you can also enjoy sitting outside at one of the many bars, restaurants, and cafes and simply soaking up the sunshine as you watch the world go by. Hopefully, you won’t need that umbrella or raincoat when you visit!

August is also the perfect time to visit London because of the many fabulous annual events and festivals that take place.

From the vibrant Notting Hill Festival or the Caribbean Food and Drink Festival, the Great British Beer Festival or something different like the Camden Fringe Festival, you will have plenty to choose from.

Some of the top ones you might want to add to your itinerary are:

• Notting Hill Carnival.
• Caribbean Food and Drink Festival.
• The Great British Beer Festival
• The London Gin Cruise
• Roundhouse Comedy Festival
• Prescilla Party – For fans of Prescilla Queen of the Desert.

With long sunny days, hopefully!, in which to make the most of your visit to London, you can make the most of your experience when you come to the city in July.

Whether you are relaxing and soaking up the sun at one of the parks, attending exciting festivals and events, taking in the world-famous sights and attractions, enjoying the London theatre scene, or cruising on the Thames, you will have a fabulous time.

If you’re heading to London with kids, you won’t need to worry as there are many attractions for your younger ones too. Moreover, getting around from one part of the city to the next is easy as there are plenty of bus stops in all areas as well as the efficient London tube service.

Plan your trip to London  whatever the month or season with our guides

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• London in June
• London in July
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Visiting London in August: Weather, Places & Things To Do

• In London by month TRAVEL GUIDE

This is one of the best times to hit this capital city in our view – mainly because you’ll have the best chance of getting decent weather in August in London.

Outdoor activities – markets, festivals, and exploring the streets – are a favourite amongst locals and tourists alike. One thing we don’t enjoy however is how hot the London Underground can get!

Let’s explore the ins and outs of this great city together!

• 1 Enjoy London in Summer Weather
• 2 Is August the Best Time to Visit the London Eye?
• 3 What Is the London Weather in August Like? Average Temperature in London in August
• 4 What to Wear for London Weather in August?
• 5 Places You Must Visit in London in August
• 6 Things to Do in London in August on a Budget
• 7 Things to Do in London with Kids
• 8 Most Romantic and Fun Places for Couples
• 9 Cheap Flights to London in August
• 10 Hotels in London Prepared for Hot Weather
• 11 Frequently Asked Questions about London in August
• 12 Conclusion

Enjoy London in Summer Weather

Tickets sell out fast in London in august : check availability now >>

Let’s start with the best places to see when you visit London in August. All of the usual attractions that can be visited year round will be open. But August offers a great opportunity to enjoy outdoor attractions more. Some of the best free things to do in London are outdoors.

From a stroll down Oxford Street to checking out views of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben during a wander down the South Bank, it is all more enjoyable when the weather is good. But even if it rains just head indoors and check out Madame Tussauds or all of the wonderful museums in London.

Is August the Best Time to Visit the London Eye?

The London Eye is one of those iconic things to do in London. If you visit London in August you definitely should check this one out, especially if you get a good, clear day.

Note that London in August is busy! So you may want to avoid the peak hours from 11am to 3pm. Try right at the end of the day – last rides are usually around 5.30pm. If you have a cloudless day you can see over 30 miles over London and beyond!

You can book fast-track tickets online if you wish – therefore your waiting time will not likely be more than 15-30 minutes.

What Is the London Weather in August Like? Average Temperature in London in August

One of the best months of the year in the United Kingdom for weather, the London summer weather is generally pleasant.

You can expect the average temperature in London in August to be about 23 degrees celsius or 75 Fahrenheit.

Let’s check out what the weather in London should be like at different times of the month.

What Is the Weather Like In London in Early August

If you are heading to London at the beginning of August then you can expect the highest temperatures of the year.

Afternoon temperatures will get to around 23 degrees celsius (75 degrees Fahrenheit) whilst you can expect mornings to start off at around 16 degrees celsius (61 degrees Fahrenheit).

Sometimes you may get lucky with afternoon temperatures topping out at 30 degrees celsius (into the mid eighties in Fahrenheit).

There is still likely to be rain within the month in August – scattered throughout the month – so you may hit a few showers.

What Is the Weather Like in London in Late August

Towards the end of August, you can expect the temperature to begin to drop a little bit.

Afternoon temperatures will still likely reach the early twenties, capping out at around 21 degrees celsius (around 70 degrees fahrenheit) and it is a bit fresher in the morning.

There is no more or no less rain towards the end of August, so just make sure you pack a light rain coat and a fold away umbrella just in case.

Weather in London This August and Beyond

So just what can you expect from the weather in London?

Take a look at the weather in August in 2024 for an idea of what is likely to meet you. Whilst summer in London in 2024 kept its average temperatures as standard, there was an increased amount of rainfall – up to 40% more in some areas – which meant it did feel particularly we on occasion.

If you were unlucky enough to hit up London during a rainy spell – or worse, a flood – you’ll know how important it is to take wet weather gear with you on your city break to London.

Check out the weather forecast for London in August before you go as well.

What to Wear for London Weather in August?

As we have mentioned it is not likely to be cold in August in London. You will however likely hit bad London summer weather at some point.

You’ll need a flexible wardrobe to be able to cover you for unexpected changes in weather. Let’s review a packing list for London to get you started.

What to Pack for London in August

Key for packing for London in the summer is flexibility. With chances of showers and temperatures that could reach over 30 degrees celsius, you’ll need to be prepared for both.

Here is our “must-have” guide to packing for London in summer.

• good walking shoes. The museum halls alone stretch for miles!
• light summer clothes that you can put a jumper or jacket over – in case the underground is ridiculously hot or you end up at a park picnic
• a fold-up umbrella that you can keep in your day bag
• a fold-up light rain jacket for those great British showers
• a money belt for your valuables
• cap or hat for the sun

Places You Must Visit in London in August

We mentioned some of the old favourite attractions in London at the start of this guide, and you can of course check them out in more detail here.

But in this section, we will focus on things to do in London specifically in August.

Festivals in London in August

London in August becomes a hotspot for amazing festivals . From bluegrass to rock, field festivals to classical music, London offers it all.

Festicket has already published the main runners for 2024 on their website – many of which take place in August. Expect big crowds as people return to concerts with vigour! Check out the TimeOut list here for a feeling for what’s on offer in London in August.

Visit a London Lido

If the temperatures soar and you end up with a good spot of weather, many locals and visitors will be itching to cool off at one of London’s Lidos.

The Oasis Swimming Pool in Covent Garden is a good bet – because it is heated and costs just over £6. If you are feeling a bit braver you can dive into the Serpentine Lido in Hyde Park.

This is a dip right in the lake in Hyde Park, so it’s nice and fresh on a warm summer day.

Relax at an Outdoor Cinema

During August, outdoor or drive-in cinemas are all the rage in London. The Manor House Gardens usually put on a good show, and most of the events are put on by Pop Up Screens .

Get Away from the Crowds

If you need to get away from the crowds then the area around London offers a great selection of things to do.

Early August is a great time to visit one of the pick your own lavender fields for example. Hitchen Lavender in Hertfordshire offers over 30 acres of fresh lavender fields!!

Day trips to StoneHenge – or a hike in the Cotswolds – are amongst some of the many getaways not far from London.

Things to Do in London in August on a Budget

London is a pricey place. Just getting a decent hotel room on a budget can be tough in London in August.

But it is possible to do London on a budget. That’s because some of its very best attractions are free or very cheap in London.

Here are a few tips below:

• Eat street food: Restaurants in London can be pricey, and a starter, main, dessert and drinks can quickly eat up your budget. Instead, head to a food market such as Berwick Street Market, Brixton Village or Boxpark in Shoreditch. Of course, there is Borough Market too, but you may want to opt for something a little less touristy.
• Take in some free landmarks: Some of London’s most iconic things to do are completely free. A wander around Trafalgar Square, grabbing photos of Big Ben or the Houses of Parliament will cost you absolutely nothing.
• Visit free museums : The British Museum, the National Gallery and the Natural History Museum are all excellent free museums to visit in London.

Things to Do in London with Kids

London could be a nightmare with kids – or a paradise! A trip to Hamleys is a must – watch their eyes light up as they take in multiple floors of toys.

Madame Tussauds is an old favourite, and the Harry Potter Studios will keep fans delighted. Kidzania – a child size city – is also an amazing place at which to spend the afternoon.

Football fans will likely be delighted with a tour of a stadium – such as this Chelsea Stadium Tour on sale here.

And if you don’t fancy traipsing your little ones across the city to see the sites, book an escorted tour of London and travel in style.

Most Romantic and Fun Places for Couples

There is plenty on offer to make a romantic trip to London extra special. A nighttime Thames tour of the bright city lights is an excellent place to start. If you prefer to stay stationary, then head up the Shard and grab a cocktail.

You can book a segway tour, or a bike tour such as this one – if you like to be more active. And for something really unusual why not try out Bustronome – a double decker bus, kitted out as a gourmet restaurant under a glass canopy!

Cheap Flights to London in August

Flight prices get hiked up a lot for August – a combination of a huge amount of tourists and the British school holidays.

Use search websites such as Skyscanner to book your flights about three months in advance.

Hotels in London Prepared for Hot Weather

If you end up in London in August during a heatwave you will want to be sure your hotel is prepared for London summer weather. Let’s take a peek at some of the hotels in London that are kitted out for hot weather.

Berkeley London is blessed with a swimming pool that boasts amazing skyline views over the city. With doubles starting from around £400 it is not cheap, but the view is absolutely worth it.

Over in Belgravia, The Goring is London’s last family-run luxury hotel. If you want to experience a true British summer – (they even play croquet on the lawns) then this is one to consider. Rooms start at £350.

Frequently Asked Questions about London in August

Here are the top questions we get asked on our site about London in August.

Is August the cheapest time of year to go to London?

August is the peak season in London, so it can be pricey. If you are on a budget and don’t mind the weather, look to travel in November or February for the best deals.

How hot is it in London in August?

If you want to visit London in August expect temperatures to be in the low twenties celsius during the day.

Is it going to rain in London in August?

Most likely. London gets about 8 days of rain throughout the month of August, so come prepared for a few showers.

What shows are on in London in August?

There are lots of shows and festivals on in London in August. Check out local festival guides and ticket websites to see what is on. Many of these are outdoors!

When is the August Bank Holiday in London?

The last Monday in August is a bank holiday known as the Summer Bank Holiday.

What time does the sunset in London in August?

Sunset will be around 8.30pm in the month of August.

What kind of clothes should I wear in London in August?

You can wear light summer clothes in August in London but make sure to take clothes that will be suitable for rain or cooler mornings and evenings.

How crowded is London in August?

London is very busy in August. Where possible, book skip the line tickets for the main attractions.

When is the sunrise in London in August?

Sunrise will usually be around 5.45am in London in August.

A trip to London in August is great – especially if you hit a spell of good weather! Check out some of our other resources to plan your trip and see if it would be worthwhile for you to get a City Pass.

I’m Sebastian and I love exploring and writing about London. I’ve spent lots of time wandering around the city, finding cool places and learning all the best things to do. On my blog, LondonPass.info, I talk about all the awesome spots in London, from the famous ones everyone knows to secret places that are super special.

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55+ Incredible Things to Do in London in August 2024

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Before I start, I just want to say that these things to do in London in August are not something to take lightly.

Any Brit will tell you.

It is serious business.

After living in a cold, damp climate for half of the year, everyone gets a bit stir crazy and crabby.

But August in London is (usually) different.

The sun comes out (occasionally), temperatures skyrocket (and then come back down pretty quickly, let’s be honest), and men of all shapes and sizes start wandering through the park with their shirt off because they can.

And I do mean all .

A London August is like a pass from God himself for everyone to let loose, pull out the barbecue, speak to their neighbors for the first time all year, ironically root against their own country in various sports, and enjoy the little things.

Whether you’re coming as a visitor or thinking of making a move to the UK, here’s my ultimate list of the best things to do in London in August.

The Absolute Must-Knows (from a Londoner)

• 😍 Cheapest Way to See it All: Get the London Pass here (yes, it’s worth it)
• 🎭 Cheapest site for West End theatre tickets: London Theatre Direct
• 🚕 Cheapest and most reliable airport transfer service: Welcome Pickups
• 🚉 Cheapest Way to Book Train and Bus Tickets: Omio
• 🔌 Most Reliable Adapter for UK Plugs: This one

GET A FREE LONDON INTRO GUIDE and ACCESS TO MY FB GROUP

Start your planning with this “Intro to London” guide and access to my London planning Facebook group!

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Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

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1.  Buckingham Palace

Not only can you press your face up against the Buckingham Palace gate, but the royal family always escapes London in the summer, leaving their digs open for you to explore.

Of course, it’s not free, and you will hardly be sifting through their medicine cabinets, but still: worth it.

Why not visit the grounds of Buckingham Palace as one of your top things to do in London in August?

🛎 Still looking for somewhere to stay in London?

My favorite hotel in London for all visitors is the Strand Palace ( click here to check prices ). ⭐⭐⭐⭐

2. Regent’s Open Air Theatre

Regent’s Park is my favorite London park and deserves to have a spot all of its own, but they also have a special offering in the summer with the Open Air Theatre.

You can see what’s currently on and get tickets at their website here .

It’s on my list of things to do in London in August for families who want to get a bit of culture and nature in at the same time.

IMPORTANT: are you coming to the UK from abroad?

In case you’re reading this from outside the UK and will be a foreign visitor here, you need to know these 2 things to stay safe and save money.

• Travel insurance – you need it when going overseas! I use this site to get the best quotes and purchase my packages from. Do not skip this – having medical coverage abroad as well as other coverage in case of missed flights, lost luggage, etc is essential. As I said, I have never gone wrong using this site .
• International debit cards without fees – do not get stuck paying extortionate foreign fees when using your card abroad (and the UK is almost all card these days). I use the Wise debit and travel card which you can apply and learn more about here .

3. Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens are botanical gardens, but unlike what I thought when I first visited, it’s not just a greenhouse.

I mean, I knew there would be some grass, but I didn’t really imagine the absolute massive space it is.

It’s like Disney World for people who like flowers and generally being outdoors, and one of the best things to do in London in August.

I don’t even like flowers that much, but I could definitely spend days and days here.

4. Borough Market

Borough Market is London’s most famous food market year-round, but there’s no better time than the summer to stuff your face with as much food as possible.

They’ve also got special pop-up restaurants and cooking demonstrations going on frequently, making them one of the best street food markets in London .

Better yet, you have to walk around from stall to stall to get the flavors you’re after, which basically means you burn all those calories off while enjoying one of the best things to do in London Bridge .

Someone please say yes.

5. London Lidos

For a city that’s covered in rain a good portion of the time, it’s surprising how many outdoor swimming pools can be found in August in London.

It might not be on the top of every tourist’s list, but if you’re in London for awhile or a study abroad student in London here for the summer, it’s something to take advantage of.

6. London Zoo

Aside from the London Zoo being a generally fun way to spend a warm summer day, they have some really adorable sloths that are way too cute to miss.

There’s even a baby who spends the day hanging onto his mom and I’m going to start tearing up if I even talk about it.

So precious.

Seeing baby sloths is basically one of the best London things to do in August for anyone who has a soul.

This is also one of the best things to do in London with kids .

7. Visit the Olympic Park

In 2012, London hosted the Olympic games in the Olympic Park in East London.

Today, you can take advantage of the facilities and even swim in the Olympic swimming pool, as well as relaxing in the gardens built for the athletes.

The Olympic Park is also right next to a major shopping center with plenty of restaurants, so you can use it as a place to shop or eat lunch or dinner.

8. Notting Hill Carnival

Visit London in August to see the famous Notting Hill Carnival .

I haven’t been purposefully, but instead walked through on accident once.

It was…wow.

There are parades, there are people dressed up in every type of outfit you can imagine, there are food stalls, and there is celebration.

A lot of celebration.

It’s basically a huge street party where (mostly) anything goes, and if that’s your thing, it’s not to be missed.

9. Hyde Park

As the biggest park in all of London, Hyde Park is the perfect place to spend an August day in London.

Wander the paths to see what you might find, or pick a spot next to a fountain to do some people-watching.

There will be plenty of people spreading out their picnic blankets and soaking in the sunshine as it’s one of London’s best parks for a picnic, and lots of dogs playing too if you’re an animal lover.

10. Kensington Gardens

While Kensington Gardens used to be considered an official part of Hyde Park, it’s now its own section.

Within, you’ll find beautiful blooms and also the stunningly beautiful Kensington Palace.

Kensington Gardens is also on my list of things to do in London in September , so if you miss it this month, there’s still time!

11. Take a Walking Tour

Taking a walking tour in London when the sun is shining is one of the best things to do in London in August.

Whether you’re interested in history, art, culture, or something completely off the wall, there’s probably going to be a walking tour for you, and you can find my best tours in London to narrow down your list.

Choose from paid-for walking tours that let you buy tickets up front, or you can go on a “free”, tips-only walking tour where you pay at the end what you think the tour was worth.

12. See a Show at Shakespeare’s Globe

If London is your only stop in August and you’re not making plans to go to Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s birth home, you’ve got to make a show at Shakespeare’s Globe part of your itinerary.

The reason it’s one of the must do things to do in London in August in particular is that Shakespeare’s Globe is an open-air event with no roof in the center where the “groundlings” (standing guests) are, so the weather really impacts your experience there.

You can buy these standing-only tickets for just 5 pounds, so it’s also one of the best ways to see London theatre for cheap in the whole city.

13. Kayak in Camden

Take a leisurely kayak around Camden lock to experience a different side to London – maybe even a London date idea !

See the houseboats bob up and down, find a bit of shade to stop and relax under, or take a guided kayak tour with an expert guide who will make sure that you’re safe and happy.

You’ll often see lots of colorful kayaks going up and down this area in the summer, and August is a great time to take part before the weather starts to turn in the fall.

Try the Pirate Castle for some great boating opportunities.

14. Picnic in Green Park

Green Park , right outside Buckingham Palace, is one of the best underrated parks in all of London.

It’s right next to some of the most popular attractions, there is plenty of shade to be found, and there are some touching memorials.

Go to a shop like Sainsbury’s Local ahead of time to buy up some premade sandwiches and chips and dessert, and then spread out on the Green Park lawn and enjoy your afternoon.

15. Find an Urban Beach

London doesn’t have a coastline of its own, but it does have the Thames!

In August, there are lots of pop-up urban beaches where companies quite literally transform a bank on the river into a happening retreat filled with drink stands, sand beneath your feet, umbrellas, and music pumping.

No, you can’t go in the Thames (nor should you want to), but you can still pretend you’re at the seaside without needing to leave the city.

16. Open-Top Bus Tour

I don’t always advise taking an open-top bus tour of London because it’s not that great if it’s cloudy and raining, but if you’re going to have an opportunity to take one in good weather, August is it!

Sit on the top deck with your sunglasses, tourist map wide open, and embrace the experience of being driven around London and shown all of the sites.

I would highly recommend London’s Big Bus tours for your open-top experience.

17. BBC Proms

If you’re American like me, the first thing that comes to mind when you think of “prom” is basically getting dressed up in an awkwardly glittery dress and going to a dance with one of your friends because no one asked you to be their prom date (oh wait, maybe that’s just me).

BBC Proms can involve glittery dresses and friend dates, but it’s actually the biggest classical musical festival in the world.

No Top 40 hits here!

The concerts take place in Royal Albert Hall, just across the street from Hyde Park, and you’ll want to buy your tickets in advance due to the popularity of the event.

It’s a must-do if you’ve never been and want to experience London life.

18. Underbelly Festival

The Underbelly Festival at Southbank runs all summer long until September, so it’s in full swing in August and one of my top choices of what to do in London in August.

This family-friendly festival has plenty of comedy, circus, and acrobatic entertainment.

Many of the festivities take place outdoors, so you can simply walk along the river and take in everything.

There are also food carts and stands so you can grab a bit to eat as you go.

19. Outdoor Movie Screening

London LOVES its outdoor movie screenings in August.

The kids are out of school, parents are looking for something to do with them, and it’s a popular tourist month for the city.

Outdoor movie screenings are some of the best cinemas in London and often require that you bring your own chair or blanket, they hold way more people than a regular movie screening, and they often reshow the great classics or family-favorites that you’ve always wanted to see on the big screen again.

20. Take a Tour of Wimbledon

Wimbledon’s famous tennis tournament takes place in July (you can see my guide on queuing for Wimbledon to learn how I stood in line for like 5 hours), which means that by August there is the opportunity to start taking tours again so you can see where the action took place.

Whether you’ve grown up seeing Wimbledon on your television screen or have always dreamed of walking in the footsteps of legends like Serena Williams and Andre Agassi, the walking tour takes you throughout the player’s rooms, into the courts, and behind-the-scenes to discover what it’s like to play tennis here.

21. Lord’s Cricket Ground

If you’ve never heard of cricket, the best place to go to take a tour and learn more about the sport is Lord’s Cricket Ground .

This is the most famous cricket ground in London, and knowledgeable guides will take you through the viewing areas and into the main areas so you can get a feel for life as a cricket player and spectator.

I still don’t quite understand how it’s played, but one day I’ll get the hang of it.

22. Brick Lane Market

This network of covered stalls and market streets is popular for its international cuisine and vintage and second-hand furniture.

Don’t miss the curry houses or the Jewish bagel shops on your visit to London in August, as these are the most popular eating options when touring Brick Lane.

It can take a couple of hours to really see Brick Lane Market thoroughly, so set aside some time if you’re truly hunting for bargains and not just wanting to pass through.

23. Rooftop Bars

Sure, London has plenty of green space, but that green space is usually reserved for relaxing and isn’t to be filled with pop-up shops.

So what do you do if you want to get a drink at one of London’s unique summer pop-ups?

Seriously, find a rooftop bar and enjoy some snacks and drinks while overlooking the city skyline.

There are some great options on Oxford Street and some hidden gems spread throughout the city if you know where to look.

24. The British Museum

Now, the British Museum is an indoors space, and I know that a lot of these things to do in London have been outdoors to take advantage of the (hopefully good) August weather, but trust me on this one!

The British museum’s glass ceiling in the main area is best enjoyed when the sky is blue and the sun is shining.

It just streams in and fills the space like nothing I’ve ever seen, and there are plenty of tables to sit at and enjoy the atmosphere.

This is a great option if you want to get out of the heat for a little bit and also see some of Britain’s most amazing treasures at the same time, including the Rosetta Stone and Cleopatra herself.

Overall, August is a fantastic time to visit London and is a month typically enjoyed by many tourists.

Often, Londoners will use August to go on holiday, which means a bit more space for you to enjoy the city.

Even if you don’t get the weather you’re expecting, try out the British way of thinking which is to carry on despite the rain!

Come armed with some waterproof shoes and an umbrella just in case things take a turn, and take advantage of everything London has to offer in August.

25. Regent’s Park

Near Baker Street Station in the north of London is this fantastic park which features beautifully manicured gardens, a lake complete with the option to go for a romantic paddling boat ride, one of the most romantic things to do in London , and one of the most impressive views in all of London from Primrose Hill.

Within Regents Park you’ll also find the London zoo, running and walking trails, and lots of sports taking place.

This is one of my favorite London things to do in August, but is one that many visitors would need to specifically seek out as you may not automatically walk past or through it based on your London travel plans.

26. Primrose Hill

Primrose Hill is one of the best places to visit in London in August.

This beautiful part of Regent’s Park is not too tough to climb if you take your time (it is a relatively steep incline, but we’re not talking real hiking here, just a bit of huffing and puffing if you’re out of shape!)

It’s common to take a blanket to sit out on the hill and watch the sunset over London.

Of course, since it’s in a park, it’s completely free!

From here, you can a stunning view of the London skyline featuring the BT Tower, the Shard, and the London Eye.

Afterwards, head to the London Zoo in Regent’s Park or nearby Camden for some of London’s best markets.

27. Exhibitions at the Serpentine

Located in the picturesque area of Kensington gardens, Serpentine Gallery is actually two art galleries that are within a short walk of each other.

Completely free to enter, in the Serpentine Gallery you’ll find contemporary art, including some permanent installations and rotating temporary exhibitions that have featured everyone from Anish Kapoor to Jeff Koons.

There have even been installations in nearby Serpentine Lake, as well as incredible outdoor contemporary art that use the setting of Hyde Park and the help of Serpentine Gallery to make an impact on the visiting public.

28. Sunflower Fields

August is a great month to see sunflowers in London, and if you want to stay closer to the city center, you can see them in Kew Gardens.

However, if you have a little bit more time, head out to one of the sunflower gardens within striking distance of a day trip from London!

Popular options include:

• Garsons Farm
• Hitchin Lavender
• Meopham PYO
• The Pop-Up Farm

29. London’s beer gardens

In August, London is awash with beer gardens, ranging from dedicated options to pop-up outdoor areas set up outside pubs around the city.

Grab a beer with friends and sit back and enjoy the London August weather.

It’s fun, it’s casual, and it’s a fun way to connect and make new friends.

30. Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

Outdoor performing arts is the name of the game at the Greenwich + Docklands International Festival, happening each August in outdoor venues across Greenwich.

From dance to acrobatics to theatre, there’s something for everyone and the festival is spread across 15+ days so you can be sure to catch multiple events that suit your artistic taste.

Branch out and do something unique in London this August.

31. Hampton Court Palace Food Festival

From fresh wood fire pizza to chicken burgers to bao buns, you’ll find tons of great street food options at the Hampton Court Palace food festival, happening in August.

With plenty of green spaces and vendors, this is a wonderful way to soak in the sun and try new cuisine at this iconic attraction in London.

32. London Craft Beer Festival

Held in Tobacco Dock, the London Craft Beer Festival is a great way for beer lovers to connect and try out new breweries in August in London.

Wander your way around the stalls, bring a group of friends and stake out a place to sit back and enjoy the food stalls, or just go to people watch and soak in the electric vibes.

There are also alcohol-free beer options and other drink options if you want to check it out and find something to suit everyone’s tastes.

33. Carnaby Summer Festival

From live performances of jazz, hip hop, rock, and everything in between, the Carnaby Summer Festival brings live music and art to London every single August, filling the streets of this Soho area with fun and vibes.

There’s also a great line-up of free workshops and masterclasses from pottery painting to candle making that are totally family-friendly.

34. Music festivals

August is one of the best months for music festivals in London, as many festival organizers choose the weather and happiness of London’s summer months.

From BST Hyde Park to All Points East to Eastern Electrics Festival , music lovers of almost any genre will easily find plenty of great festival options in the city.

35. The Play that Goes Wrong

An iconic London play, running since 2012, The Play that Goes Wrong follows a bunch of accident prone thespians as they attempt to put on a play.

It’s beloved within the London theater scene and a great option for visitors.

While it does run year-round, August is a great time to check out the West End and enjoy a meal before seeing a show.

36. RIB Boat tour on the Thames

If you want an awesome experience for families and those with a need for speed, check out the River Thames Speedboat tour .

This is a London tour like no other, seeing the sights from a (perfectly safe and licensed) speedboat.

You’re still getting to see the sights, but you truly feel like you’re on the set of James Bond or some other action film as you’re bouncing along down the river.

37. London Cable Car

The London Cable Car that sails over London is a great thing to do in London in August, and not too expensive either!

You’ll get great views of St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Gherkin, Greenwich, and so much more from 90 meters above the Thames.

It’s typically used as transportation, but it’s also a great sightseeing option, and it can take you to Greenwich for the day where you explore the Maritime Museum and other fun things for the kids.

38. The ArcelorMittal Orbit

Head to the East of London to the Olympic Park where you can send the kids (and you can do it too, if you’re brave enough!) down the ArcelorMittal Orbit, the longest tunnel slide in the world!

It’s a great place to visit in August, and the area surrounding the slide and Olympic Park is a nice place for a picnic in the summer.

39. Kew Gardens

London’s botanical gardens are a must-see in August when the grass is green and the sun is still high in the sky.

Kew Gardens is a wonderful place for a long walk on a weekend afternoon, or you can take the train ride around the gardens to see it all from a different vantage point.

Stunning greenhouses give you the chance to step out of any unexpected weather if you need to, or you can take a picnic and enjoy a relaxing day out on the grass.

Kew is a truly spectacular destination in London, and August is a great time to visit.

40. National Gallery

Standing high above Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery is London’s premier art museum and, guess what – it’s completely free!

This is a must-do for art lovers and anyone wanting to experience original works by famous artists like Van Gogh.

41. Afternoon Tea with outdoor seating

Afternoon tea is a must-do in London, but when the summer rolls around, there’s nothing better than enjoying afternoon tea outdoors!

One of the best places to do this is at St. Ermin’s , a hotel featuring one of the best afternoon teas in London, but with an outdoor terrace area!

Enjoy the stunning décor around the terrace as you sip on tea and enjoy the finger sandwiches.

42. Tate Modern Viewpoint

Combine world-leading art collections with glorious views of London’s city center.

The viewing area is on the top floor of the Blavatnik Building and is free to center via an elevator.

There is a bar to give you something to sip or snack on while you look out from this riverside spot, offering great views along the Thames as well as being directly opposite St Paul’s Cathedral.

Looking down the river, you can even see the financial district of Canary Wharf and the world-famous Wembley Stadium.

It’s an amazing place to catch a sunset, as the historic buildings over the water are painted fading-orange by the setting sun and the city’s light start to come to life.

43. SkyGarden

If you want a completely free view of London without paying a ton of money to go up in the Shard or the London Eye, book a spot at the Sky Garden , one of the most unique things to do in London .

This awesome lounge and viewing platform is free to visitors, though you need to book in advance to ensure you get a spot.

44. Lunch at Duck & Waffle

A great view should be enjoyed with some great food and great drinks, and there are few places in the world where the three come together as well as at Duck & Waffle .

Nestled high up on the 40 th floor, this sleek modern dining space offers panoramic views of the London skyline, particularly an up-close shot of the famous ‘Gherkin’, a twisting tower of carved glass reflecting the light, with all the comforts you could ask for.

Even better, it’s open 24 hours a day.

Grab a window-side table at sunset and watch the daylight wash over the city as the sun goes down, seeing street after bustling street fill with the lights of the capital’s thriving nightlife.

45. Diana Memorial Fountain

If the weather in August in London is hot (and it often is), check out the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain.

It’s perfectly acceptable in the summer months to put your feet in or let the kids splash in this fountain, and you’ll find many people doing the same.

It’s a great way to cool off in London in August, situated within the gorgeous Hyde Park.

46. Walk along the Southbank

The Southbank is a great place to walk around in August when it’s still warm enough to not be in your winter boots and the sun is glistening off the water.

In addition to some famous attractions like the London Eye (though you’ll want to check out my article on whether the London Eye is Worth it ) and the London Aquarium (again, see my take on what to avoid in London ), there are loads of places to sit and enjoy a picnic on a bench or little patches of greenery to soak up some nature.

The best part is that it’s completely free, so when it comes to choosing from the things to do in August in London, it gets high marks for not emptying your wallet and also getting you out and about.

47. See the street performers in Covent Garden

Covent Garden , one of the best markets in London, is filled with street performers in August.

You can walk around, take in the shops and restaurants, and enjoy musicians, acrobats, and comedians as they entertain the London crowds.

It’s free, it’s right in the heart of the city, and it’s one of my favorite things to do in London in August.

48. Royal Observatory Greenwich

From viewing outer space at the planetarium to being able to stand on the Prime Meridian, there are tons of things to do at the Royal Observatory Greenwich along with interactive galleries and kid-friendly options in the café if you need a bite to eat.

49. Tate Britain

Another one of the Tate’s, Tate Britain is perhaps the complete opposite of Tate Modern, as here you’ll find more traditional art.

It is the oldest of the Tate galleries and used to be known as the “National Gallery of British Art” due to what it houses inside.

Head to Tate Britain and you’ll find a permanent collection of British art that spans back to 1500.

You’ll find art from artists like William Blake, David Hockney, and Francis Bacon.

The entrance to this stunning gallery is picture perfect in and of itself, and inside you’ll find that the interior architecture of the galleries really adds to the pomp and circumstance of one of the best art galleries in London.

50. Climb the O2

If you want to get a bit more extreme, why not climb the O2 arena?

That’s right, climb it!

It’s one of the more unique things to do in London, and August presents the perfect opportunity for clearer skies and better weather conditions.

Just make sure to pack water to stay hydrated!

51. Hampstead Heath

Where can you go in London to find ancient woodlands, tons of grassy areas, tranquil ponds and an entire world that feels more like you’re stepping into a Jane Austen novel rather than 21st century London?

Hamstead Heath !

This massive green area is almost 800 acres and includes everything from bridges to fields to flower gardens.

You’ll find people going on walks, flying kites, running through the numerous jogging trails, and swimming in one of the natural swimming ponds.

This London landmark has also made its way into film and literary history, including being featured in the movie Notting Hill , the iconic Dracula by Bram Stoker and being mentioned in Stephen King’s “ IT .”

52. Go Cycling on Boris Bikes

Known as “Boris bikes” or “Santander bikes,” these bikes can be rented from one of the many bike racks around London by simply using a credit card.

While I wouldn’t recommend cycling on the main streets in London as a visitor, these are great for cycling within the London parks.

53. Eat Outdoors

There is so much outdoor dining to find in London in August.

Plenty of restaurants and pubs have outdoor dining areas. Simply walk down any street and you’ll find them.

You’ve also got plenty of outdoor street food markets like Borough Market where you have opportunities to sit and eat outdoors.

54. Seven Dials Market

Seven Dials Market , within Covent Garden, is a great place to visit in London in August.

Check out the independent street food and awesome food hall before checking out the Covent Garden shops and entertainers.

The open air atmosphere is perfect for the August weather, and the options range from Mexican to vegan to classic British to bao buns to desserts and milkshakes.

55. Columbia Road Flower Market

There’s nothing in London quite like the Columbia Road Flower Market , which fills the street with blooms every Sunday when you can buy foliage of all kinds, whether you want flowers for your girlfriend, some new plants for your house, or just a waft of nature’s finest creations!

There are also other shops along this road that sell all types of things, so you can come along even if you’re not just in the market for flowers. 

What else should I not miss in London?

If you’re visiting London soon, here’s a very brief rundown of a few of my other favorites to make sure you don’t miss anything!

• Hidden London Walking Tour – this tour is the absolute best if you want to see London in a different light and uncover hidden nooks, crannies, and histories that you won’t get on your normal, run-of-the-mill London walking tour. Click here to check prices and book.
• Historical Westminster Walking Tour with Churchill War Rooms – if you’re a history buff or even mildly interested in all of the insane things that have happened in London, particular during the wars, you have to book this tour which is an absolute bargain for the tour + entry to the Churchill War Rooms (basically two must-dos in one). Click here to check prices and book .
• Cutest London Afternoon Tea on a Bus – want to see the sights and enjoy afternoon tea at the same time on the upper deck? Yes, absolutely you do. This afternoon tea is a real delight and helps you get out and about while also putting your pinkies up. Click here to check prices and book.

Hey! Want to learn more about what’s going on in London each month? Check these out!

• 37 Awesome Things to Do in London in September 2023

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

4 thoughts on “55+ Incredible Things to Do in London in August 2024”

Nice list! The Regent’s Open Air Theatre and the Notting Hill Carnival look pretty interesting 😀

Glad you enjoyed! They are definitely must-dos. I could spend days and days and days in Regent’s Park..that would be the life!

Ha the only time I went to the open air theatre in Regents Park, it rained and they absndoned the performance half way through!!! A v typical British experience! I did like London in the summer thiugh, we used to play rounders in the parks after work. Miss those days!

Totally agree with your list. Enjoy London!

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Plan your visit to London in August

Things to do in London London Travel Guide Best Time to Visit London London in August

London stands as a pivotal metropolis, reigning as both the principal city and the largest within the entirety of the European Union. Its allure emanates from a myriad of sources: the timeless landmarks speckling its skyline, the glistening waters of the River Thames , and the capricious nature of its weather. With a populace hailing from diverse backgrounds, London serves as a global nexus of cultures, embodying the essence of cosmopolitanism. August emerges as an optimal period to experience London's splendor, boasting agreeable weather characterized by warm, sunlit days ideal for embarking on exploratory journeys and admiring its iconic sights. For those contemplating a sojourn to this illustrious city, delve into the following to uncover all that London has to offer in August!

Quick Jumplinks to Navigate the Guide

• What makes London in August special?
• London in August: Weather
• London in August: Things to Do

London in August: Events to Look Out For

• London in August: 5-day Itinerary
• London in August: Essentials
• Must-try Dishes While Visiting London in August

Tips for Visiting London in August

What makes london in august special.

August in London is a delightful sensory experience, marking the peak of summer. With warm, sunlit mornings boasting approximately six hours of sunshine daily, it sets the stage for tranquil sightseeing followed by outdoor dining and perhaps a refreshing pint of beer. The month is brimming with outdoor festivals, particularly showcasing live music and gastronomic delights. Amidst bustling crowds, expansive venues, and an infectious festive ambiance, August in London promises a vibrant fiesta that should not be overlooked. August presents a wonderful opportunity to discover the city by foot, with heritage walks offering insights into the captivating history of the capital. London's charm is accentuated by clear skies, allowing for uninterrupted vistas from iconic landmarks like the London Eye or the Shard.

London in August : Weather

August presents an optimal opportunity to explore London, boasting daytime temperatures reaching 21°C and nighttime lows of 14°C, accompanied by an average of 6 hours of daily sunshine. Notably, precipitation is minimal during this season, facilitating hassle-free travel experiences throughout the city.

Visiting London in August : Things to do

Stonehenge tours.

Embark on a captivating journey from London to Stonehenge, an iconic prehistoric monument steeped in mystery. Just a few hours' drive away, this ancient marvel awaits your exploration. Witness the enigmatic stone circle, ponder its historical significance, and immerse yourself in the haunting atmosphere. A day trip to Stonehenge from London promises an unforgettable encounter with one of the world's most fascinating archaeological wonders.

August Timings Depends on tour chosen

Salisbury SP4 7DE, UK Getting There ›

Explore the heavenly panoramic views of London atop The Shard and watch the cityscape of building separated by the Thames River snaking its way past the city. Combine this with a river cruise package, and you’re set to enjoy the best of London in August!

August Timings Daily 10 am-10 pm.

32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, UK Getting There ›

Buckingham Palace

Nothing speaks of royalty than the residence of her Highness itself - the majestic Buckingham Palace , which is open to visitors in August and September. Get passes to admire the regal interiors of this mansion and be privy to the Changing of the Guard Ceremony - a real honor indeed.

August Timings 9:30 am-6:30 pm

Westminster, London SW1A 1AA, UK Getting There ›

British Museum

The British Museum Guided Tour is a blessing for History lovers the world over as it’s a culmination of 6000 years of history. With nearly 8 million artifacts, divided into 10 separate sections, this 2-hour tour with a professional guide is a fascinating and informative experience!

August Timings Open Daily: 10 am-5:30 pm

Great Russell St, Bloomsbury, WC1B 3DG, UK Getting There ›

Westminster Abbey

A UNESCO World Heritage, The Westminster Abbey is a famous landmark that had served as the seat of coronation or hall of weddings for the Royal family in England. Highlights of this tour include the striking Gothic architecture, the stained glass windows, an audio guide, and the coronation chair.

August Timings

Mon - Sat: 9:30 am-3:30 pm Timings are subject to change regularly; visit the official website for confirmation.

20 Deans Yd, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA, UK Getting There ›

The bird’s eye view of the city with its famous monuments is a sight to behold from atop the 30-minute ride on The London Eye that offers a splendid 360 ° vista of London. You can enjoy priority access, or combine this with another monument to get the best of the deal!

August Timings Open daily in August but timings vary from 10 am-8:30 pm to 11 am-6:30 pm on some days

Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, UK Getting There ›

Stadium Tour

A dream come true for sports fanatics, a trip to the Wembley Stadium or the Wimbledon Stadium + Museum Tour is a motivating experience. Here, you can witness the making of great history on the pitch and salute the true spirit of sportsmanship.

London HA9 0WS, UK Getting There ›

West End Theatre

London’s West End Theatre is an entertainment destination that’s the hub of several best-selling plays. Whether you're in for classics: Les Miserables, Mamma Mia, Phantom of the Opera or choose musicals to re-live your childhood with The Lion King or Aladdin, it's bound to be a magical few hours!

55 Strand, London WC2R 0LQ, UK Getting There ›

Warner Bros. Studio - Harry Potter Tour

With multiple packages to choose from to make your visit to the Potterverse special, you’ll be spoilt for choice at the Warner Bros Studio - Harry Potter Tour . Visit set locations of Platform 9 ¾, the Great Hall, or Diagon Alley and learn about the intricacies of filmmaking here, it's a spellbinding adventure for sure!

August Timings Daily - 9:30 am-8 pm

Studio Tour Dr, Leavesden WD25 7LR, UK Getting There ›

Thames River Cruise

London in August would be the best time to explore the city on a river cruise at the Thames . It’s a whole different feeling to sail across the tranquil waters and view the famous monuments from a new angle. Combine this with a meal and some Jazz, and you're set for a blissful evening!

Pipers Island, Bridge St, Reading RG4 8AH, UK Getting There ›

The BBC Proms 2023

July 14 - September 9 Participate in the 126th edition of the world’s biggest classical music festival with BBC Proms held across many venues in London intending to expose music to the broadest audience possible. With a myriad of events: concerts, workshops, and talks, it’s a brilliant experience for all.

We Are FSTVL 2023

August 25 - August 27 The We Are FESTVL, which won the Best British Festival award in 2014, has continued to develop into one of the UK's most popular electronic festivals. Hundreds of international DJs descend on Airfield of Dreams (just east of London) for We Are FESTVL.

London Craft Beer Festival 2023

August 11 - August 12 The eighth edition of the Craft Beer Festival sees beer aficionados unite with the best of breweries at Tobacco Dock to celebrate the very nature of the modern beer. Combined with food from some of the most amazing restaurants and live music mixed by famous DJs, this festival is set to be a riot of craziness.

All Points East 2023

August 18 - August 28 Established in 2018, All Points East has become synonymous with its diverse and eclectic musical offerings. Returning to Vicky Park once again, this year's lineup boasts an impressive array of big-hitting headliners such as Stormzy, HAIM, The Strokes, Jungle, and Dermot Kennedy. Not to be outdone, the support acts are equally enticing, featuring the likes of Erykah Badu, Amyl and the Sniffers, Confidence Man, Angel Olsen, Tove Lo, and many others, all set to set the stage ablaze.

London in August : 5-day Itinerary

Tower of London

Shakespeare Globe Theatre

Windsor Castle

West End Show

Day Trip To Bath

Day trip to stonehenge.

Day Trip To Cotswolds

Harry Potter Tour

Shard at Night

River Thames Cruise

Madame Tussauds

St Paul's Cathedral

London in august : essentials.

Language English

Time zone GMT+1

Country Code +44

Socket Type G

Currency Pound (£, GBP)

London Weather in August

Clear blue skies, warm sunny days, and a breeze that plays hide and seek with you as you make your way around town - that’s London for you in the summers of August. With temperature ranging from 23 to 14 °C, it’s an ideal time for a vacation in this majestic city!

Where to Stay in London during August

Af you’re planning a trip to London in August - it’s a great idea to stay in Central London as you’ll be in the vicinity of plenty of public transport options and won’t waste too much time traveling. Here are a few popular properties in London for different budgets:

• Luxury hotels - Rosewood London , Corinthia Hotel London , The Savoy , The Ritz London
• Moderately priced boutique offerings - Crowne Plaza London Battersea , Sofitel London Heathrow , Ibis London Shoreditch
• Budget properties - Heston Hyde Hotel , Sara Hotel , Qbic Hotel London

What to Pack for Visiting London in August

If you're planning a trip to London in August, be sure to pack your usual summer attire along with accessories like sunglasses, scarves, and hats. It's wise to bring a compact umbrella as well, given London's tendency for sudden showers. Evenings can cool down to around 14°C, so consider including some lightweight jackets for layering up when needed.

Getting Around London in August

London has the most efficient public transport and the Underground Metro is a testament to this. However, give the tube a pass in case of rush hours and holidays. Ride on the city’s original red double-deckers if you’d like to experience the typical London feels! Besides buses and the metro, you can also explore the Hop-on Hop-off buses especially meant for tourists who are visiting the many monuments. Feel free to book a cab if you’re traveling to and from the airport with too much luggage as it can be a hassle on public transport.

Must-Try Dishes While Visiting London in August

The classic meal to be savored while in London, the English Breakfast comprises eggs, bacon, sausage, grilled tomatoes, and baked beans served with toast. Sumptuous and filling, make your way to The Ivy for a gourmet experience with one of the best breakfasts in town.

A traditional dish that originated in the UK and Ireland, Black Pudding is often called blood sausage made from pork blood, pork fat, beef suet, and cereal that's usually oatmeal or barley. Black Pudding is slowly becoming a breakfast staple in the city, and you can sample one at Regency Cafe .

Visit The Harwood Arms and partake in the traditional meal on a Sunday afternoon: the Sunday Roast! You can choose your meat from chicken, pork or beef for your roast and savor this with roasted potatoes and vegetables served with Yorkshire Pudding (an English bread of sorts) and delicious gravy!

A savory pie consisting of minced meat and a layer of mashed potatoes on top came to be called Shepherd’s Pie after using lamb meat instead of beef! Dine at The Windmill if you’re up for a flavorful blast of this delicacy.

It wouldn’t be fair to talk about the food scene in London without mentioning the ubiquitous Fish & Chips: batter-fried fish served with steaming hot fries are a staple in many Commonwealth nations. Grab a bite of this tasty goodness at any of the popular outlets or try a gourmet one at Bonnie Gull Seafood Shack .

• London in August is full of surprises because of the warm weather, general holiday cheer, and a host of outdoor events happening across town. Enquire at your hotels for pop-up festivals and secret parties while you plan your days here, and you’re sure to come up with some great stuff.
• Keep your walking shoes handy - there’s no better way to explore a new city than by foot!
• Outdoor cinemas are a thing in London, and you could watch some classic movie screenings under the beautiful skyline - so be sure to check with your hosts!
• While the weather is predominantly sunny in August, it’s not a bad idea to keep a small umbrella handy in case it pours!
• Always book in advance, and book online to get the best offers, besides having everything arranged, you’ll also end up waiting less in the crowded tourist hotspots.

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Is August a good time to visit London?

There are a few things to consider when deciding whether August is a good time to visit London. The weather is usually warm and sunny in August, but it can also be quite crowded as many people take their summer vacations then.

What should I pack for London in August?

When packing for London in August, be sure to pack light clothing that can be layered. The temperatures in August can vary, so it's important to be prepared for both warm and cool weather. A raincoat is also a good idea, as August is one of the rainiest months in London. Finally, don't forget to pack your walking shoes, as there is a lot of sightseeing to be done in this historic city.

How busy is London in August?

London is generally quite busy during the summer months, but August is usually one of the busiest times of year. This is due to a combination of factors, including the weather and the fact that many people take their summer holidays in August.

Are there any special events in London in August?

From open-air concerts and festivals to exhibitions and street parties, there's something to suit everyone's taste in London in August. Some of them are, BBC Proms, We Are FSTVL, London Craft Beer Festival and London Dessert Festival.

What are the best things to do in London in August?

Some of the best things to do in London in August are, going on a Thames River Cruise, a Harry Potter studio tour, visiting the London Eye, and going to the ArcelorMittal Orbit & The Slide.

Born and brought up in Bengaluru, Preetha is an introvert living amidst the toil of the metro, chasing her dreams. She is a movie buff, a bibliophile and is fond of old school music. She has an eye for aesthetics and can draw and paint as good as a ten-year-old. She has been passionate about writing since her teen years and is currently exploring herself and the world, one word at a time.

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A Local’s Guide to London in August [2023]

London is an exciting city that is full of life and energy all year round.

But there is something special about the capital during August.

As summer reaches its peak, the city comes alive with festivals, concerts, and outdoor events that are sure to captivate people of all ages.

From cultural celebrations to foodie festivals and everything in between, there is no shortage of things to see and do in London in August…

Planning a Trip to London in August

Weather in london in august.

London weather in August tends to be warm and sunny, with slightly coolers evenings and occasional showers. It’s a great time to explore the city’s attractions and outdoor spaces.

• Daytime temperatures reach around 22-23 C (mid-70s f).
• But in recent years, some afternoons have peaked at highs of 30°c+ (mid-80s°f).
• Early mornings and evenings may drop between 13-16°c (56-61°f).
• 7-8 days of the month may still have some light rain or drizzle.
• The sun rises around 5:45am and sets around 8:20pm.

What to Pack For London in August

If you’re traveling to London in August, make sure to pack plenty of summer clothes, like t-shirts, shorts, and dresses. But don’t forget to bring a few light layers for cooler evenings or days too.

• An umbrella or a light raincoat is a must-have as rain is common year-round in England.
• Pack a hoodie or a light jacket for the chilly evenings.
• Comfortable shoes are essential as you will be walking around the city all day.
• Pack a formal outfit for any fancy events, dinners, or nights out.
• A good day bag is necessary to keep your possessions safe and easily accessible while you are out exploring the city.

Best Things to do in London in August

Take an open top bus tour.

See the city’s highlights on a relaxing open top London bus tour .

A bus is a great way to see the best of the capital and travel between different tourist attractions without having to face the stuffy tube on a hot day in the city.

Check out my other London sightseeing tour recommendations.

Grab Food From a Market and Have a Picnic in The Park

Make the most of the good weather by picking up some delicious treats from one of London’s best food markets , then heading to a beautiful park or green space to enjoy your feast in the sun.

Don’t forget to pick up a few beers or cocktails in a can to sip with your picnic too!

Dine on Boat on the River Thames

Dine somewhere a little different this summer by taking to the water for a floating restaurant experience in the capital.

From luxury sunset dinner cruises, to floating DIY BBQ boat, there are plenty of option to choose from.

Check out London’s top boat restaurants here.

Enjoy a Sunset Movie Screening

During the warm summer months, there’s nothing quite like sitting next to one of London’s most famous landmarks, watching a movie on the big screen as the sunsets over the city.

Luna Cinema has outdoor movie screenings at Hampton Court Palace, Kensington Palace, Regent’s Park, and Kew Gardens during August, showing everything from cult classics to new releases.

Watch a Show at Regent’s Park Theatre

If you prefer live performances, head to Regent’s Park Open-Air Theatre, situated amidst the lush greenery of one of London’s most popular parks.

Exclusively open during the summer season, the outdoor theatre offers a diverse range of plays, musicals, comedies, and family-friendly productions.

August 2023 productions include:

• “La Cage aux Folles”
• “ Dinosaur World Live “ (family show)

Best Events in London in August [2023]

Camden fringe (31st july – 27th aug 2023 ).

Camden Fringe is an annual performing arts festival held in London throughout August. It showcases emerging artists and performers from all over London and the world.

The festival takes place in various venues across Camden and features a diverse range of performances, including comedy, theatre, dance, and music.

The festival is known for its unique and experimental performances, so if you’re looking for something a little different in London this summer, this is the place to be!

Great British Beer Festival (1st – 5th Aug)

The Great British Beer Festival , organised by CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale), is a well-known annual event in the beer and cider world dating back to 1977.

It offers beer lovers the opportunity to sample hundreds of fantastic UK beers, international beers, real ciders, and perries within the iconic Olympia Exhibition Centre in West Kensington.

The boozy festival also features the Champion Beer of Britain award, street food stalls, live music, traditional pub games, festival shops, and more.

There’s even a Learning and Discovery area, so you can find out everything you want to know about the Nation’s favourite drink.

Taste of the Caribbean (5th, 12th, 19th Aug)

Taste of the Caribbean Food & Drink Festival is Europe’s largest festival dedicated to Caribbean cuisine and culture.

The vibrant festival features food vendors from all over the Caribbean, offering delicious hot dishes, desserts, drinks (i.e. lots of rum cocktails ), and take home produce.

In addition to the food and drink, there are also live music performances, cultural exhibitions, cooking demonstrations, eating competitions, funfair rides, and plenty more.

The festival takes place in several different locations:

• Sat August 5th – Kingston
• Sat August 12th – Wimbledon
• Sat August 19th – Hackney

All Points East (18th – 28th Aug)

All Points East is a relatively new multi-day music festival held in East London’s Victoria Park since 2018.

The 2023 line-up features Stormzy, Haim, The Strokes, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Tove Lo, and Lizzy McAlpine, amongst others. 

This year, the festival takes place over two weekends; Fri 18th and Sat 19th, and Fri 25th to Mon 28th.

There will also be a free program of events and activities taking place within the Victoria Park venue between Sun 20th and Weds 23rd.

The free activities include an outdoor cinema, live music and entertainment, street food and pop-up bars, children’s activities, and loads more.

El Carnaval del Pueblo (20th Aug)

El Carnaval del Pueblo is London’s annual celebration of Latin American Culture.

The carnival takes place each summer in East London’s Burgess Park, showcasing of the music, dance, food, and crafts of 19 Latin American countries!

The event features an exciting float procession, plenty of vibrant costumes, delicious food, and performances from some of Latin America’s most famous artists.

The festivities are free for anyone to attend, whether you’re from the region or not.

Notting Hill Carnival (27th – 28th Aug)

Notting Hill Carnival is the largest street festival in all of Europe and attracts millions of visitors from around the world each year.

The inclusive carnival encourages people of all cultures, faiths, and backgrounds to come together to celebrate Caribbean culture and traditions, with colourful costumes, steel bands and calypso music, non-stop dancing, and plenty of delicious street food.

The huge event takes place over two days. Sunday is family day, with a children’s parade and lots of family-friendly activities. While the bank holiday Monday is famous for its booze-fuelled street parties and features the main parade.

Check out more of my monthly London guides:

London in June

London in July

London in August

London in September

London in October

Check out these other London posts you might find helpful:

When is the best time to visit London?

Where to stay in London – an ultimate area and hotel guide

Important things to know before visiting London for the first time

Mistakes tourists make in London and how to avoid them

Should you buy the London Pass?

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August in London: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

While the weather may be unpredictable, that doesn't keep tourists or locals from enjoying the end of summer in London each August. With several annual and ongoing events taking place throughout the month, there's no shortage of things to do on your trip to England this year.

Peak tourist season happens earlier in the summer, but you should still expect large crowds near popular traveler destinations and at the free music concerts and movie screenings throughout the month. However, don't let the hordes keep you away—you might miss Notting Hill Carnival, the biggest street festival in Europe.

August Weather in London

July and August are the warmest months of the year for London, especially with the high humidity expected for the city. In August, the average high is 95 percent humidity and the average low is 62 percent.

• Average high: 73 degrees Fahrenheit (23 degrees Celsius)
• Average low: 53 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius)

While not quite as sunny as June, you can still expect an average of six sunshine hours a day throughout most of the month. But there can still be plenty of rainy and overcast days that will bring temperatures down.

What to Pack

To best prepare for the volatile weather of London in August, pack clothing that's lightweight but versatile. While some days can reach up to 91 degrees Fahrenheit, which will equate to shorts, T-shirts, and sunglasses, chillier nights and wet days might require a light jacket, raincoat, or umbrella to keep you dry and comfortable. You should also wear close-toed shoes, especially if you plan to do a lot of walking around the city.

August Events in London

From tours of the United Kingdom's Parliament to a multi-day beer festival, the event calendar for August is full of fantastic celebrations of the culture, history, politics, and people of London. Ongoing events include The Proms classical music festival, cricket test matches , Opera Holland Park , the Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition , and a chance to see the BP Portrait Awards at the National Portrait Gallery.

• The most popular and well-attended event is Notting Hill Carnival , which takes place each August during the Bank Holiday weekend. This colorful celebration of London's Caribbean communities dates back to 1959 and features live music, dancing, vibrant parades, steel bands, and classic Caribbean street food, including jerk chicken and fried plantains.
• Summer Opening of Parliament : During the parliament's summer recess, U.K. residents and overseas visitors can buy tickets to tour the historic houses of Parliament from August to September.
• Summer Opening of Buckingham Palace : Peek inside the Queen's London residence and explore the State Rooms, the Queen's Gallery, and the Royal Mews all month long.
• Great British Beer Festival : This celebration of British beer takes place in Olympia each August, and showcases over 1,000 real ales, ciders, and perries, along with a wine and gin bar, street food, entertainment, and live music.
• Carnaval del Pueblo : This lively annual festival takes place in Burgess Park in south London and is Europe's largest outdoor Latin American event.
• Camden Fringe Festival : Launched in 2006 as an alternative to the Edinburgh Festival, this annual arts event runs for four weeks and takes place across a number of eclectic venues in Camden, London.
• London Mela : This free two-day family-friendly event is a celebration of Asian culture, creativity, music, and food at Southall Park.
• Football Season : The football (soccer) season runs from August through May, so you can catch one of the first games of the season for teams like Arsenal and Chelsea.
• Kid's Week at West End Theatres : During the month of August, you can take the children under age 16 for free (with paid adult admission) to the West End to see some of London's top shows.
• South West Four Weekender : This annual dance music festival takes place on Clapham Common in late August (the Bank Holiday weekend).
• FrightFest : A fantasy and horror film festival during the Bank Holiday weekend has been showcasing the latest independent and mainstream scary movies since 2000.

August Travel Tips

• July and August are the busiest months of the summer tourist season, so you should book your flights, dinner reservations, West End tickets, and accommodations in advance to avoid higher prices and sold out venues.
• The U.K. celebrates a Bank Holiday on the last Monday of August. Federal buildings, banks, and some offices and businesses will be closed, but tourist destinations, food and hospitality services, and most shops will still be open.
• Since the Notting Hill Carnival, Bank Holiday, and South West Four Weekender all happen at the same time, the last weekend in August would probably be the best time to visit—but also the most expensive.

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Visiting London in

What to expect, getting around.

• Things to do

August may be the ideal month for travelers hoping to experience London and enjoy a wide range of interesting events in comfortable, pleasant weather. Summer is still in full swing, and many kids are still enjoying their summer breaks. Whether it's one last splurge or your first long-awaited summer vacation, London in August will be an unforgettable get-away.

• Average Daytime Temperatures: 66 F (19C)
• Average Overnight Temperatures: 55 F (13C)
• Sunny or partly sunny days: 18
• Rainy days: 13

What to wear

• Pack light summer clothes with a light jacket for layering to help keep warm during the evenings and cold early mornings.
• Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses – protect yourself from the sun.
• Wear comfortable shoes – you will be happy you did after a long day out.
• London is a rather formal city. Some of what you want to pack depends on where you intend to visit.
• A small umbrella might be handy for those cloudy days with possible rains.

London Prices in August

London is a busy year-round destination. August is still the peak tourist season, so when planning your trip to London, you should try to reserve accommodation in advance, since it isn't the cheapest season for hotel accommodations. Fortunately, you can find so many free things to do in London in August, it really helps make up the difference. Book your flights in advance for the best prices and save money by booking at the right times. We recommend booking your accommodation 4 to 6 months in advance.

Planning your trip is a key to a balanced budget, use free online resources like our maps & guide or the itinerary tool, if you are going to visit some iconic attractions, get a sightseeing pass, it will easily save you 50% on regular admission prices – see more

With roughly 30 million travellers per year, London easily ranks as one of the most visited cities on earth. London is easy to navigate, but if you can't walk to your destination there are plenty of options

London underground.

The quickest way to travel around, London's Underground metro system is the oldest and most famous in the world. In total, there are 11 lines on the Tube within nine zones. On most days the London Tube is open between 5AM and 12AM, but there is extended services for Friday and Saturday. Fares vary widely for the London Underground depending on when you're using the service and how far you're going. The easiest way navigate the Tube is to invest in what's known as an Oyster Card. These re-chargeable card can be purchased at any Tube station. Put as much money as you want on your Oyster Card and scan it at the entrance of the Tube station. It’s much cheaper to use than single tube tickets.

Black Cabs - Traditional London taxis

These cabs can easily be found all over central London as well as by major train stations, bus stops, and by Heathrow Airport. Please ensure the yellow "taxi" light in the front of the cab is on when you're trying to hail a vehicle. All taxicab services in London are metered and there's a £3 minimum charge. While you're not required to tip, it's always welcome, and most Londoners will round up their fare.

Hop on, Hop off Buses

These buses connect major attractions all over the city and provide many photo opportunities, it's also a good way to catch a break or eat your sandwich while still sightseeing one of the many special tours. Getting around London from the comfort of a bus is a great way to get a feel for the city without worrying about getting lost. Checkout the London Sightseeing Bus Routes with over 7 bus loops and more than 100 bus stops

Free Digital Guidebook

Hop-on hop-off bus map, london tourist map, things to do in august, check out the following list of ideas for fun things to do in london in august:, 1.changing the guard at buckingham palace.

One fascination that is not to be missed is the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. It takes place outside Buckingham Palace, begins at 10:45 AM and lasts around 45 minutes (handover takes place at 11:00 AM). You can join the Change of the Guard walking tour to learn much more about this ceremony.

2. BBC Proms – the world’s biggest classical music festival

The Proms is an orchestral classical music concert series that runs for eight weeks of the summer season. The annual event series was first held in 1895 and has since become a significant staple of British culture. Most of the concerts occur in Royal Albert Hall, with smaller concerts taking place in Cadogan Hall or outdoor venues. The concert series also features ballet and opera performances for kids and special events showcasing musical genres outside of the classical realm.

3. Carnaval del Pueblo

Carnaval del Pueblo is held in Burgess Park at the beginning of every August. It is a very popular event that celebrates the culture of Latin America. The parade showcases a colourful, vibrant assortment of brilliantly designed floats, fantastic costumes, and talented performers and musicians representing the Latin American diaspora.

4. The Notting Hill Carnival

The Notting Hill Carnival is one of the most popular August events in London and one of the highest attended street festivals in the world. This three-day festival features dazzling, flamboyant costumes, tasty West Indian food vendors, and a mix of live Soca, Calypso, steelpan, and dancehall music played in a club-like atmosphere that urges a diverse, multi-ethnic crowd to keep on dancing.

5. Regent's Park Open Air Theatre

The Open Air Theatre, located inside Regent's Park, hosts numerous performances throughout the month of August. Guests may be able to catch a comedy, a reinterpretation of one of Shakespeare's classic dramas, a musical, or an educational event in Great Britain's oldest professional amphitheatre.

Rainy Day Options in London

Tower of london.

Learn about the storied history of London with a trip to this epic tower. Visitors will delight in the exhibit of the Royal Family crown jewels, including the Imperial State Crown. The guards of the tower will regale visitors with tales of the bloody history of these times, enchanting everyone who walks through the gates. Visit to the Tower of London is free with the London Sightseeing Pass.

West End Theatre

taking a West End show will chase away any rainy day blues during your visit to London. It might not be possible to get last minute tickets to every show, but you can find something a couple of hours before the show starts by visiting the Encore Box office. With every sightseeing pass purchased on this site we offer 55 GBP towards your theatre ticket

London Museums

Your weather app says it’s going to be raining the whole day? Head over to one of the best London Museums or Galleries. Whether your interest is in art, science or history, there’s something for everyone in just about every neighbourhood. Pick from the British Museum, The National Gallery, Tate Modern, the Kensington Museums of Natural History or Science Museum – all offer free entry to the public.

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42 Totally Amazing Things To Do In London In August

Don't worry yourselves, there's still a healthy slice of summer still to come, so get planning, and make August a month to remember.

As London summers go, this one has gotten off to a pretty great start. Festival season in full swing? Check. Food, drink, and even beach pop-ups appearing all around the city? Correct. All we’re in need of is that sweet sun to come back, then we’ll be riding the highest summer wave imaginable. And, we’ve thrown ourselves in London’s usual, splendid array of activities, from summer pop-ups, rooftop bars, new restaurants, the whole shebang. August looks to carry on that very trend with one of the biggest events of the year topping our list, a bank holiday weekend to look forward to, and a swathe of new and exciting things to do across the capital. Let’s get started, shall we?

1. Soak in the vibes at the inimitable Notting Hill Carnival

Cards on the table: the August bank holiday is the best weekend of the year, and that’s largely thanks to  Notting Hill Carnival . Last year, the landmark event on the streets of west London – usually welcoming a two million-strong crowd – returned after a pandemic-induced two-year hiatus, so energy levels were, as expected, at their most rampant.

So, this year, you’d better be ready to bring that same energy and party like 2022… or any other year from 1966, when the celebration of Caribbean culture first took place. Meander through the streets and follow a colourful mas band, cut some shapes at a dance stage, or just soak in the atmosphere with a delicious plate of scran (from one of the 300 trading stalls), before shuffling through London’s finest free event.

Everyone should simply attend the carnival and explore it in all it’s glory for starters, but here’s a few extra highlights you should be checking out:

💃  Colours Carnival : Did you know you can buy a package and be IN Europe’s biggest street parade, instead of just watching from the sidelines? Amongst others, Colours Carnival is one of the mas bands (floats) in Notting Hill Carnival and on the Sunday, they host ‘j’ouvert’ or ‘dutty mas’, and you dance behind the truck, getting covered in paint; on the Monday, it is ‘pretty mas’, and you dance behind the truck in a gorgeous costume. You need to buy a package beforehand (you can pick one up here ), which include your branded t-shirt (Sunday) or costume (Monday), food, unlimited refreshments, a wristband, commemorative drinks cup, goodie bag, access to the toilet trucks, security, on-float live performances, and more. Check out the full list of mas bands here .

🎶  One of the many sound systems:  Look, you can spend all day walking around, but sometimes it’s best to hole up in one space for the day and have a boogie. Choose a  sound system , one of the mobile units blaring music, and cut some shapes to all the eclectic beats on show throughout the weekend. Check out this guide to all the different sound systems .

🥁  Steelbands: You’ll be seeing a lot of these over the bank holiday weekend, just as you could at the very first Notting Hill Carnival in 1966 and in 1951 when the Trinidad All Steel Percussion Orchestra performed to the Southbank. Fast forward to August 2023, and there’s a stream of Steelbands performing at the carnival, and you can check out the full list here .

Notting Hill Carnival takes place on August 27  and  August 28 . The Sunday is Family Day, and the Monday is the Adult’s Parade. Both days will observe a 72-second silence at 3pm to pay respects to the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire. Find more information about Notting Hill Carnival here . 

2. Witness a giant model of Mars at the Kensington and Chelsea festival

We’ve had a hulking great model of Earth float into London on a fair few occasions, and we’ve even seen the moon model making us sing  That’s Amoré . But our neighbouring planet Mars hasn’t got the Luke Jerram model treatment just yet. Until this summer. Last year, Gaia was a worldly feature at the Kensington and Chelsea festival, but this time around they’re stepping into the other. The artist’s latest model, named Mars: War And Peace , will make up the spectacle in 2023, showing off an internally lit sculpture in various venues until August 13 . Visitors will be able to marvel at the detailed craters, volcanos and mountains etched into the design and picture themselves stepping onto the planet to see there is, as Bowie questioned, Life On Mars?

Find more information about the Kensington and Chelsea Festival 2023 here . 

3. Boogie at one of London’s many festivals this month

Though a few of them spill into the early weeks of September , this month can be accurately named as the last full month of festival season in London. Be sure to leave no overpriced tin of spirit and mixer undowned; no beads of glitter unapplied; and no dusty tent undanced in – you’ll miss it all when it’s gone. Handily, August comes right into its own for festivals around London , and there’s a cluster of artists ready to take to the stage across the month.

🎉 All Points East (August 18 & 25-28) : Victoria Park –  perhaps the jewell in the London day festival crown, this year’s lineup features sets from Stormzy, The Strokes, Jungle, Dermot Kennedy, Haim, and many, many more. 

🕺 Field Day (August 19): Victoria Park – part of the All Points East setup, and in the very same space, but with an entirely different lineup dedicated to all things dance music. Head down for the likes of Bonobo and Aphex Twin this year. 

😎 Hospitality In The Woods (August 19) : Beckenham Place Park – veering south of the river, we find ourselves at a festival that’ll make the drum and bass heads giddy. Netsky, High Contrast, Calibre and more are along for the ride. 

🎆 We Are FSTVL (August 25, 26 & 27) : Damyns Hall Aerodrome, Upminster – back to the east we go – and with good reason! These guys are playing host to The Prodigy, Skream, Andy C, Annie Mac and more. In the words of Gareth Keenan: “That’ll be a quiet night at the library… NOT.”

🛳️ Maiden Voyage (August 27) : Lee Valley Showground, Waltham Cross – the team behind Camden’s finest Jazz Café also happens to run a festival every summer. Richie Hawtin, Herrensauna XXL, Moxie, Jules, and CASISDEAD are along for the ride this year. 

Read our guide to the music festivals of London right here .

4. Sink a few pints at the UK’s biggest beer festival

The Great British Beer Festival are proposing a five-day toast in London, asking anyone with a love for the – perhaps greatest? – alcoholic beverage to take part in their world at the Olympia. On August 1-5 , the annual festival returns with over 900 (!) beers to choose from, no matter if you’re hankering for an ale or a fancy modern IPA.

At the beer fest, you’ll also get to learn the ins and outs of your pints before knocking them down your gullet. Weave around to find stalls on the history of the stuff before creating a sensible (or not) stomach lining at the food stands as you tap your feet to the live music throughout the day, or even take on the almighty pub games.

Find out more and book your space here .

5. Have a peek into Abbey Road studios

Yes, THAT Abbey Road Studios – the one where the fab four put their noggins together and created some of the most influential, beloved sounds ever created. It’s rare for the space to open up to the public, but the setting that birthed  Here Comes The Sun, Come Together , and a chasm of other bulletproof tracks is set to be available for tours in the summer. Kevin Ryan and Brian Kehew , who co-authored “Recording The Beatles” are taking visitors around the space to chat through the techniques used by Liverpool’s finest to record their records. Despite the band singing  You Never Give Me Your Money , you will have to shell out for this experience at £135, but for diehards, it might just be worth every penny.

The Abbey Road Studios tours take place across six days on  August 4-6 and August 11-13 . You can find more information and book your spot here .

6. See who gets crowned champions of British Street Food at these annual awards

Get someone talking about food in London, and they’ll inevitably have a thing or two to say about where you can truly find the best street food. There’s a lot of it going around, but these awards taking place at Hackney Bridge should give you some idea of where you’ll find some top-tier scran on the go in the city. The British Street Food Awards finals take place between August 18-20 , and previous winners include the likes of MeatLiquor and Bao, so who knows? You might just get a chance to try out a spot that’ll later go on to become a staple around London.

Read more about the British Street Food Awards here !

7. Take a trip to the beach

This summer has been a mixed bag so far when it comes to the weather. Cloudy, rainy days have reared their heads after a promising start to the warm season, but we can hope August delivers more of the that June energy while still not ramping up to the 40°C that last summer cursed upon us. All we ask is for some consistent sun to give us ample chances to head out to the beach. Yes, this may be a roundup of things to do in the capital city, but even the most dyed-in-the-wool Londoner would struggle to admit they don’t daydream about trips to the beach over the summer months. We’re counting it, okay? Good? Good.

Have a look at our roundup of the very best beaches near to London to plan your adventure this summer . 

8. Get the bucket and spade out at one of London’s beach pop-ups

If you’re slamming down your fists at the last inclusion; vehemently believing that you shan’t be leaving the big city for any reason, then there may be a way around this beachy dilemma. Popping up around London in the summer are a spray tan of golden sands – imitating the real thing, yes, but still getting us in the mood for when that trip to the beach does come. Pick up a piña colada and shut your eyes – it’s basically Barceloneta Beach, isn’t it?

Here are a few suggestions for beach pop-ups in London over the summer.

🏖️ Walthamstow-On-Sea – Big Penny Social are getting the sand in for the first time, allowing Zone 3 beachgoers to enjoy both a frozen cocktail and a portion of fish and chips.

🪣 The Beach Club at the Montague – Russell Square welcomes back its beach huts, coconut cocktails and tasty BBQ dishes for another year of sun-kissed shenanigans.

🍹 Limin’ – the South Bank hub is actually a year-round beach affair, and the London Trinadian restaurant has plenty of rum cocktails to go around.

🩴 Fulham Beach Club – the Ibiza of west London is back for another year with day beds and beach huts.

9. Attend a reimagining of a fair that dates back to the 12th century

At the end of the month, Londoners will have the chance to attend not only the largest fair in the city, but a fair that reimagines one that dates all the way back to the 12th century. The Bartholemew Fair melds together live performances, entertainment including vertical dancing, and even an immersive circus experience. Kicking off on August 31 , and taking place for three weeks, there’s an entirely free programme for you to work your way through, and will be just the tonic for curing those end-of-summer blues. View the full agenda for the free Bartholemew Fair here . 

10. Hang out with everyone’s favourite bear at Blenheim Palace

A day out at the grandiose Blenheim Palace is a spectacle in and of itself, but when you introduce the blue-and-red donning bear that hails from Peru? Then it truly is adventure time. Paddington™ Lo-Commotion brings an immersive outdoor space to the palace, leading you to a hunt for buried treasure with an entertaining splash of the Paddington™ tale thrown in. It’s a perfect activity for the whole family, and there’s plenty of storytelling, interactive performance and puppetry to look forward to. We’re off to make a marmalade sarnie, but you should secure your place at the experience here !

11. Head to one of London’s best pubs for International Beer Day (August 5)

Yep, beer is so good that it has its own day. And be gone with anyone that would complain about that! To celebrate, you most definitely should head down to one of these fine establishments to pay your respects to the beer gods, just to keep them happy, you know. Or else they might do something mad and make the average price of a pint really expensive in Lon- never mind. But still, head to the pub on  August 5 — it’s a Saturday, and even if you don’t like beer, you can celebrate with your tipple of choice.

Here’s a list of some of the best pubs around London !

12. Soak in the atmosphere of the Women’s World Cup from the other side of the world

Sure, the Women’s World Cup may be taking place in Australia and New Zealand , but if you thought that you can’t hatch a plan to watch the games alongside other fans in London, think again. July 20 marks the start of the tournament, but the crunch stages all take place throughout the month of August, with the all-important final scheduled for August 20 at 11am (UK Time). Yes, it’s an unusual time to watch the footy, but the World Cup doesn’t come around all that often, and fans of the England Lionesses will be hoping for repeated success after their triumph at the Euros last summer.

📦 BOXPARK (multiple locations) – you all know the drill by now. The trio of event spaces across London have become synonymous with live sport and getting showered by beers, and that’s no different this time around. 

⚽ ETM Sports Bars (multiple locations) – another set of bars scattered around London; all with the promise to show all England group games, including the final matchup against China on August 1. The following games will be time-dependent, but there are plenty of big screens on hand early in the morning to enjoy the matches. 

13. Cut some shapes at a London gig

There’s nothing quite like a gig in summer. Sure, the festivals may have the outdoors, but at a gig, you’ll be able to drink in that feeling of being able to walk in when it’s still light and out wearing just a t-shirt. Can’t do that in winter can ya?! Can ya?! No. Anyway, as always there’s a quite frankly eye-watering amount of gigs every single day in the city, and here are a few of the highlights.

🎤 Pusha T (August 1) : Eventim Apollo Hammersmith –  critically-acclaimed hip-hop star takes to the west London stage as part of his UK tour. 

🌸 Mac DeMarco (August 1) : Hackney Empire – the last of a three-night run in the east London venue for the jangly and ever-catchy singer/songwriter. 

🫧 The Dirty Nil (August 5) : The Underworld – flamboyant and bubblegum cool Canadian punk rockers have a delivery of riffs and bamboozingly gigantic choruses for a sweaty Camden club in August. 

😎 Skindred (August 5) : Pryzm – while they may be well-known for their crowd-controlling festival sets, a bounce and a party is always easy to come by when going to see Skindred. 

🕺Peggy Gou (August 6) : Finsbury Park – an outdoor affair with the beloved DJ rolling into the park after a host of support acts. 

🎸 Ben Howard (August 7) : Rough Trade East –  soothing guitar and vocals in an intimate Brick Lane setting .

🎉 N-Dubz (August 11) : Gunnersbury Park – the trio is well and truly back and here to spin out some ragers from the 2000s — this time at a leafy green space in Acton. 

💃 The Skints (August 11) : PowerHaus (formerly Dingwalls, Camden) – ska punk meets smatterings of reggae to create a luscious and undeniably ‘London’ sound. 

🎶 The World Is A Beautiful Place And I Am No Longer Afraid To Die (August 12) : Oslo –  the band with the longest title ever (and a gorgeous sound, at that) saunter into Hackney. 

🤗 First Aid Kit (August 12) : Crystal Palace Bowl – sisters Johanna and Klara Söderberg treat London to some dreamy Swedish folk notes. 

🎆 Shanti Celeste (August 12) : KOKO –  Chilean DJ brings her revered house and techno beats over to the newly revamped Camden venue. 

😈Limp Bizkit (August 13) : Gunnersbury Park – endearingly obnoxious and champions of nu metal, Fred Durst & co are certain to have thousands of fists in the air yelling “give me something to break”. 

⭐ The Weeknd (August 18) : Wembley Stadium – the starboy returns to the biggest of stages to put 90,000 fans in a trance. 

🥲 Boygenius (August 20) : Gunnersbury Park –  a supergroup – made up of Phoebe Bridgers, Julien Baker, and Lucy Dacus – at the top of their game are getting ready to make a whole park of fans start tearing up again. 

🎷 The Xcerts (August 20) : Rough Trade East – the Scottish three-piece are feeling like falling in love with a London crowd yet again. 

🎙️clipping. (August 22): HERE at Outernet –  experimental and lively hip-hop group bring the noise to central London.

🪩 Jon Hopkins (August 29) : Royal Albert Hall – legendary electronic producer hits the esteemed venue for a show with the BBC Symphony Orchestra. 

Find out about gigs in London at our handy monthly guide .

14. Celebrate 10 years of a south London institution

Celebrating a decade in London, the Peckham Pelican has a month-long show for Londoners to enjoy. Since August 2013, the space has welcomed over 100 exhibitions and is now putting on one until September 2 to celebrate their journey into double figures. The exhibition will dig through their past-show archives and collate some of their favourite photos, posters, and artworks. There will also be a section that shows off the best of their worst online reviews, and their collection that asked the question  Are You A Pelican Or A Pelican’t?  Better still, the site will be offering a sweet 10% off pints for the entire duration of the show, so there’s no reason not to get yourself over there throughout August.  Read more about Peckham Pelican here .

15. Have a royal feed over at Hampton Court Palace

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Hampton Court Palace is worth a visit at any time of the year for the maze alone (and maybe the historic palace and grounds), but during the bank holiday weekend, it becomes a haven for those looking for a noble feed. Head over on August 26-28 for a day of filling up on street food – from the likes of BEYRoots to The Grumpy Dumpling to Churros – and filling your bags up to take produce home with you. Better still, there’s a plethora of activities to enjoy throughout your visit, including live music at the bandstand, face painting at the family area, pop-up bars and electric bike test rides. Not so shabby an occasion, and one fittingly taking place at the royal grounds.

Find out more information on the Hampton Court Food Festival here . 

16. Laugh your head off at this summer comedy festival

With a delightfully hilarious lineup of James Acaster , Katherine Ryan , Lolly Adefope , Rhys James , and many more, the inaugrul Roundhouse Comedy Festival haven’t done half bad in putting a series of laughs together. Kicking off proceedings on August 5 and running all the way until August 23 , guests can expect bagfus of spectacular sets. If you’re not heading to Fringe in Edinburgh this year, then making it over to the Roundhouse should be on your agenda to get that injection of stand-up in. Find out more details about the Roundhouse Comedy Festival here . 

17. Take the kids to a workshop at the postal museum

This month, the Postal Museum is marking 20 years since the final mail rail delivery with a ‘summer of invention set of workshops for children being run to learn more about the systems of stamps, sorting machines, robots and rail mail. On the agenda, there are games, arts & crafts, games, shows and more, which take place every single Thursday, Friday, and Saturday throughout the school holidays.  Find out more and book your spot here . 

18. Or enjoy one of these other great things to do with kids this summer

Talking of summer holidays, there’s plenty of fun activities to enjoy for the whole family this summer. From the biggest adventure playground in Hobbledown Heath to a huge summer of fun at London Zoo to a swanky bouldering centre, the city is awash with ways to keep the little ones entertained. Check out our handy guide that details the very best things to do with kids in London here .

19. Go to town on some tequila cocktails

July may have held National Tequila Day , but who’s really telling you that you can only have margaritas on one measly day of the year? In the words of Alicia Keys: NO ONE. The folks at Tequila Town definitely subscribe to this widely-held view, hosting three events dedicated to the Mexican spirit across the bank holiday weekend . Five selected bars will be on hand to serve you up your favourite tequila-based cocktails, and you can combine them with the appropriate food (tacos) from vendors set up on site, all the background of live DJs all day.  Find out more and book your space to Tequila Town here .

20. Have a bookish day out

London is a city steeped in literature, so why not theme your day out around it all? Potter around London and check out the famous Globe Theatre before sifting through the countless bookshops and then ending at a wine bar meets bookstore . Couldn’t ask for a more main-character energy day around the bookish corners of the big smoke.

Read our handy guide to the most literary locations around the city . 

21. Go to view a statue of a legend

At the end of July, Arsenal recognised their decorated manager Arsène Wenger, the man who led them to their famous Invincibles season, with a statue outside the Emirates Stadium in north London. He joins the likes of fellow legends Thierry Henry , Dennis Bergkamp , Tony Adams and Herbert Chapman as the figures cast in bronze, and you can head up to the stadium now to catch a snap of the legendary manager. Read more about the statue here . 

22. Bag yourself some free street food

You’re told to never turn down a free lunch, so it might be time to pencil in running over to a new street food market before midday to bag some street food on the house to your calendars on August 3 . KERB+ are celebrating the launch of their brand new weekly market on Fleet Place by giving away the first 100 meals served there, completely gratis. The market opens up at 11:30am, and the free food runs on a first come first served basis, so you’ll need to be fast and ready for an early lunch (or late breakfast of champions). Even if you miss out on the free goodness, London is still being blessed with a great new street food spot with rotating options every week, so we won’t be too bitter if we’re the 101st person to turn up. Read all about the new market here .

23. Explore somewhere outside of central London

We like to tell you about lots of things to do in the centre of our lovely capital, but if you’ve never explored some of the outer zones then you’re seriously missing out. It’s summer, so why not change that right now? Use this handy guide  to wander around a few stunning nooks and crannies, then thank us later.

24. Attend a Morley’s x Heinz pop-up

In a matchup for the ages, London’s chickenshop champions Morely’s have joined forces with condiment gods Heinz to create a brand new Fried Chicken Sauce . A very special pop-up is celebrating the launch of this, and you’ll get the chance to experience both brands in a unique way over at the Standard in London. Between August 7 – September 3 , a limited edition menu featuring the likes of caviar-topped – yes, caviar-topped – fried chicken, glazed-to-order wings and ice cream with ketchup-dusted sherbert will be available to try. And as it’s the Standard , you grab yourself a mean cocktail to go alongside your fried chicken, which shouldn’t go amiss. Find out more and book your spot here .

25. Attend a thought-provoking art exhibition

Every month brings with it new opportunities to check out the ever-evolving world of art in the city of London . While there’s always a treasure trove of permanent collections, there’s also plenty that are in and out in a flash, and these are some to keep on your radar for the month of August.

Exhibitions opening in August

❤️ London Calling! (opens August 18) : Pure Evil Gallery – an exhibition celebrating 50 years of skateboarding in Britain, bowing down to the pioneers and key figures of the movement.

🧡 Red Rope (August 12-13) : Southbank Centre – a projection of artwork, poetry, dance and music that portray the fragility of the ocean created by artists with Down’s Syndrome, autism, and other learning difficulties. 

Exhibitions closing in August

💛 Anything Is Pawsible (closes August 3) : Romeo and Juliet’s Café – adorable photograph exhibition of cats, dogs, puppies and kittens who are also up for adoption following the display. 

💚 New Ancients (closes August 4) : GUTS Gallery – exploring how myths can deepen our knowledge of the world we live in, with work by Marina Abramović, Jade Blackstock, Maggie Dunlap, and more.

💙 Maria Prymachenko (closes August 31) : Saatchi Gallery – a collection of work from the late Ukrainian artist that is being exhibited in the UK for the first time. 

💜 Sunburn (closes August 31) : Studio West –  a selected group of emerging international artist make up this exhibition on the sensory themes of summer. 

26. Enjoy an afternoon tea up in the sky

Afternoon Tea is an activity usually enjoyed at ground level, but who explicitly said that this has to be a hard and fast rule? In August, you’ll be able to scale the O2 and be treated to some scones, sarnies and cakes to enjoy alongside the 360-degree views out over London from the North Greenwich vantage point . Like Batman peering over Gotham City, but, instead of worrying about catching the Joker, you’ll just have sweet treats to worry about. Sounds like a fair trade-off from where we’re stood.

Find more information and book your Afternoon Tea climb (on selected sessions between August 7-12) here !

27. Or enjoy another London venue as part of Afternoon Tea Week (August 7-13)

There’s no substitute for a cup of Yorkshire Tea brewed yourself at home, and that’s an indisputable fact, I’m afraid. But, every so often, it’s okay to fancy the whole process up and add in some booze, sandwiches and the fancy little cakes that look quite nice on the Instagram feed. No one will judge you (well, I can’t speak for your followers, but who cares anyway). Since many enjoy the tradition of adding a sprinkle of class to their days out, we’ve got a handy guide – and for those who aren’t too keen on tackling their fear of heights, there’s plenty that don’t fall under the same criteria as the entry above. August is also the month that celebrates Afternoon Tea Week (August 7-13) – yes, an entire week – so there’s no better time to book yours in… apparently.

Check out our guide to the Afternoon Teas around London here . 

28. Attend the UK’s breakdancing championship

Jump over to Outernet to get your spins on as you witness the best breakdancers in the country, all in one room. On August 12  a special show to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop is taking place, which is free to attend for all in the immersive space. Then, on August 13 , between 7pm-11pm , with 16 ‘b-boys’ and eight ‘b-girls’ competitors battling it out to qualify for the Red Bull BC One World Final in Paris this October . It comes ahead of breaking making its Olympic debut next year, and you can grab your tickets for the event at Outernet this month right here .

29. Try a mouthwatering new sandwich at one of London’s favourite outdoor drinking and dining venues

Japanese Chicken Shop are setting up shop at Vinegar Yard , and they’re bringing with them a mouthwatering sandwich – packed generously with a slap of crispy fried chicken and slathered with condiments including the pineapple jam, kewpie mayo, dark soy caramel, charred cabbage variant. Oh, and the first 100 people to arrive at the new shop on Friday, August 4 will receive a free sandwich from Japanese Chicken Shop to celebrate the opening.  Find out more about Japanese Chicken Shop here .

30. Mark 400 years of Shakespeare’s First Folio by enjoying these free live performances

400 is a big old birthday for that old bard, so honouring his oeuvre should certainly be on your lists this month. You can wander down to the Fleet Street Quarter on your lunch break and check out a free performance by Troubadour Stageworks at Apex Temple Court Hotel ( August 8, 15 and 29 ) and Stationers’ Hall ( August 22 ). The First Folio, which collects Shakespeare’s work together was first printed in this area, and his most decorated works will be championed throughout the month and through until October .  Read more about it here !

31. Try a new cocktail menu from the first winners of the Michelin Guide’s cocktail awards

It might be something of an insult to explain the Michelin Guide here, but many might be unaware that its first cocktail award was introduced just earlier this year. The winner of the inaugural award? That would be Park Chinois , the lavish Asian restaurant in Mayfair with Makis Kazakis as their head bartender. This very team who claimed the Exceptional Cocktail Award in the esteemed dining guide are now coming out with a brand new menu, featuring cocktails made up with Porcini mushrooms, discarded banana peel, or a concoction of herbs and spices. It’s the only place around where you can claim you’ve been served by a Michelin guide winning bar team – that new menu is begging to be sipped and savoured.

Find out more about Park Chinois here .

32. Book a Christmas day out months in advance

Look, I’ll be real with you. To put it mildly, I’m concerned, upset and violated by the weather we endured throughout July, so if summer is going to continue its disappearing act in August, you can’t really blame people for looking ahead to the twilight months of the year. Winter Wonderland , the annual festive fair in Hyde Park , is on many a reveller’s radar from November, but tickets go on general sale this month ( August 2 ), so keen elves and reindeer may want to snap them up and secure their place extra early. Find out more about booking information here .

33. Consider yourself stuffed at this giant pizza party

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If you’re an ever-growing pizza restaurant in London, there’s only one way to celebrate a big milestone. Pizza Pilgrims are chucking us a rather large bone for their 10th anniversary; throwing a giant, you guessed it, pizza party. Over at the Camden Beer Hall, you can try limited edition pizza and brews, the latter of which was created in celebration of Napoli winning Serie A. In keeping with the football theme, you’ll also be able to take part in a keepy-uppy challenge with a lemon, as well as take a tour of the brewery with beer tasting, pizza-making masterclasses, and a cheese-pulling competition. Find out more here .

34. Enjoy a day out at the theatre

Much like the rotating world of art exhibitions in London, there is always plenty on at the theatre all year round, so get booking and grab those binoculars if you’re up in the gods.

New openings

🔍 Scream Queer Murder (August 1-12) : King’s Head Theatre – a comedy murder mystery set in the ’50s which skewers queer stereotypes and identity, both in this time and the present day. 

🧓 Pension Europa (August 3-4) : Wonderville – Austrian theatre company aktionstheater brings their thought-provoking production on life in modern Europe. 

❤️ As You Like It (August 18 – October 29) : The Globe – Shakespeare’s romantic comedy tale telling the story of Rosalind and Celia begins its run at the famous theatre this month.

Ending soon

⚽ Dear England (closes August 11) : National Theatre – critically-acclaimed state of the nation play by James Graham which features Joseph Fiennes as Gareth Southgate in a fictionalised play about the English football team. 

🍍 Spongebob The Musical (closes August 27) : Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre – adventures from the pineapple under the sea takes to the stage. 

35. Attend a gym class for those that have experienced cancer

Cancer has touched most of our lives to varying extents, and everyone takes comfort in different ways, whether it’s your battle, or the battle of watching someone you hold dear go through the illness. From now until October, Gymbox is partnering with Battle Cancer to help give people that are suffering, have suffered, or are dealing with the fallout of cancer find a space with a group class to share their experience in a bid to build a strong community around the challenge. Anyone can drop into the classes on an ad hoc basis, and they are open to any fitness level across the twelve-week period.  Find out more and sign up for the classes here. 

36. Enjoy a dreamy concert series in Battersea Park

This open-air series is set to have concertgoers swooning over the classical, soul and jazz tones playing out over the leafy Battersea Park. Witness acts including Gabrielle , Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Ronnie Scott’s All-Stars take to the stage as you sip down on a glass of wine with a picnic hamper to go alongside the music. Battersea Park In Concert takes place on August 26-28, and you can find tickets here !

37. Hear a legendary photographer speak about their experiences

You’ve got a know a thing or two about camerawork if your CV reads David Bowie , Led Zeppelin , Elton John , Diana Ross , and many more. Laurie Lewis is appearing at the Camden Collective to share thoughts on some of his iconic images. It’s part of the Camden Insire events, and Lewis will talk about his work that appears in many a private collection, and discuss his work as a photojournalist in countries including Nicaragua, South Africa, and Indonesia. All taking place in an evening discussion with  Clash  editor Robin Murray, this is not a talk to miss!  Find out more about this event and more Camden Inspire activities here . 

38. Witness a hip-hop fable on why beavers build dams

Ever wondered why beavers do… that? Well, instead of dusting off that encyclopedia, you can just listen to an eight-minute hip-hop fable that answers the very question while giving us the tale on ecology and how we should protect nature and wildlife. It comes in the form of a one-person act by Julian Alexander at the Royal Victoria Dock on August 6 and 7 , where he will also perform his  Rime of the Ancient Mariner .

Find out more about ‘Why Beavers Build Dams: A Hip-Hop Fable’ here .

39. Chow down on a patty between two slices to celebrate National Burger Day

Not that we need an excuse to tuck into a  burger , but this is one national day you definitely want to be observing. Most of us have a favourite spot, and it’s an understatement to say London is awash with places to grab a tasty one, but here’s a greasy guide  if you’re looking to try somewhere new.

40. Head to an 80s Power Trip night out

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Many have heard of Hijingo – the raucous bingo hall in Spitalfields that packs a multi-sensory night out – but you won’t have seen it sprayed with the 1980s quite like this. Through August, an 80s Power Trip night will take over the space, with a theme that puts you into a brand new bingo hall show with playlist seeped in the glitter and the glam of the decade, with all the usual Hinjingo trimmings – food, drink, prizes – that you’ve come to expect. Read more about the new night out, which runs until August 25, here .

41. Have a whale of a time on a boat party

Every Saturday in August brings with it an opportunity. An opportunity to set sail into the rough seas (of the Thames) while having a song ‘n’ dance and a few shots. There are two floors of music on the boat to keep the night rocking, and there’s even an afterparty in London to flock to once you’re docked back up in the land. Read more and book your spot here .

42. Keep exploring this stunning city

Of course, we’ll continue shouting about things this month (and all year round), so you’ll never be short of activities in this big old place. Here are a few that we’ve enjoyed telling you about lately.

🎥 These Brilliant Outdoor Cinemas Are Popping Up In London This Summer

☀️ London’s Fabulous Free ‘Summer By The River’ Festival Is Back With A Full Roster Of Events

💯 We’re Leaving Our Secret London Stamp Of Approval At Our Favourite Local Businesses

📚 The Secret Alley Full Of Curious Old Bookshops

🦍 A Band Of Life-Sized Gorilla Sculptures Has Arrived In Central London As Part Of A Free Trail

🍷 Sip Wine Down In The Cellars At London’s Oldest Wine Bar

🍸 8 Places In London That’ll Transport You Back To The 1920’s

📹 25 Famous Filming Locations In London That You’re Sure To Recognise

🌳 This Sensational Sunday Market Is Heaven For Foodies

😋 The Picture-Perfect Portuguese Restaurant With The Strong Tile Game

More things to do inspiration…

Also published on Medium .

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What to Pack for London: Packing List (2024 Update)

Europe Packing List , Packing Lists , Travel Packing Lists

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Wondering what to wear in London? This London packing list will help you plan for your dream trip. With a stylish wardrobe, you won’t look out of place with these tips!

What to Wear in London

Table of contents.

We want you to have a stress-free travel experience, and the main goal of this article is to help you plan your packing choices in an efficient way so you won’t be unprepared for your trip and know how to dress in London.

You’ll find insight on general London attire, in addition to visual examples of the type of clothing you might want to wear based on the weather and how to build a London wardrobe.

As a bonus, you will also learn some general travel tips including safety precautions such as using anti-theft products like this that  can help you feel less stressed during your travels.

Please use the visuals in this post as a guideline to help you create London outfits and choose corresponding items based on your own style and clothing preferences.

Quince Italian Leather Crossbody Bag | Lo & Sons Rowledge Backpack

What Do People Wear in London?

When considering how to dress in London, it is important to remember that the city style is tailored and chic, yet conservative with an edge. Londoners love neutral colors and adhere to the “No more than 3 colors” rule.

To avoid standing out as a tourist, avoid items like original UGG boots, clunky tennis shoes, flip flops, and sweatpants. London clothes look presentable at all times; your goal is to maintain a comfortable look, while exuding femininity and edge.

In London, it’s easy for the traveler to stick out like a sore thumb in walking boots, convertible zip leg trousers , an SLR camera, guidebook, and a backpack. Wearing all this in the middle of London screams, “tourist”! That level of travel gear is more appropriate for countryside treks in the Lake District , for example, not a city.

British fashion isn’t quite as chic as the French , and it isn’t always as slouchy as American fashion or as zany as Australian fashion. It can be edgy or conservative. But one thing’s for sure: just like the rest of Europe, a good fit is key. And when in doubt, choose dressy over casual.

These are the most popular shoes for London  for every season of the year!

Columbia Pardon My Trench Rain Jacket  (Plus)  |  Cole Haan Packable Rain Jacket

In general, day-to-day London style is casual but more dressy than American style. This DOES NOT mean business clothing. Think nice blouse plus tailored jeans (dark colors are always a good choice).

Like anywhere, pack for the environment. Are you spending your time café crawling in the cities or getting lost in the wilderness?

Jeans are easy to wear and don’t have to be washed frequently so they make the ideal travel pants. For something more versatile and lightweight, take a look at our favorite women’s travel pants .

Also remember that if you forget anything, you’ll be able to pick it up when you get there, so don’t be afraid to pack light. Try to stick to a small selection of colors to make it easier to mix and match your items.

What Should I Wear in London?

The most important factors in planning and packing for London are the activities you’ll be doing on your trip AND the weather.

Always, always, always check the weather forecast before your trip. What to wear in London now could be different a week later. Nothing will ruin your trip faster than being unprepared with the wrong clothing for the weather. London summer fashion is very different than winter fashion.

Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a capsule travel wardrobe , which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of  packing cubes  to compress your clothing.

If you’re not used to colder climates, still plan for “light winter” weather year-round and follow these tips on how to pack for cold weather . Layers are key!

Blondo Waterproof Ankle Bootie |  Sorel Emelie III Chelsea Waterproof Boots

What are the best shoes for London?

Generally speaking, you’ll probably need some type of boot year-round. Choose a calf-height for the winter and ankle boots the rest of the time.

If there’s heavy rain in the forecast, a rubber bootie would work well for extensive city exploration on foot. However, regular leather boots (or faux leather boots) will work much better than rain boots on most occasions.

Most people DO NOT walk around in wellies in the city – they’re usually reserved for time in a muddy countryside or for the Glastonbury Music Festival .

Read these tips on what to wear on a rainy day !

When in doubt, a tan chelsea ankle boots is the go-to style of choice. These tips on how to wear ankle boots should work in every season except winter, when a tall boot is needed like these waterproof boots are recommended.

Popular shoe options include (click each item below for suggested styles):

• Ankle Boots for spring and autumn
• Ballet Flats to dress up or for warm weather
• Waterproof Boots for rain and snow
• Comfortable Sightseeing shoes for year round visits
• Cute Comfortable Summer Sandals

Read this post about the how to choose the best walking shoes for Europe .

Below you’ll find helpful seasonal clothing tips and suggested packing lists that you can use as a guideline to prepare for a trip to London:

Shirt  | Tunic | Blouse |  Sweater | Shirt | Skirt |  Pants | Jeans | Shirtdress |  Dress | Coat | Jacket  | Sneaker |  Boot | Umbrella | Backpack

What to Wear in London in Spring

What is the weather in london in spring (march, april, may).

In spring, it rains a lot. I usually carry a compact umbrella at all times in the UK, so I’m always prepared for spontaneous showers.

Spring is that transition period between winter and summer, so layers are still important when planning what to wear in London, but in the later months think about swapping that chunky coat for a regular jacket.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for spring travel:

• How to Pack for Trips with Mixed Weather
• How to Layer a Summer Dress for Spring
• How to Pack for Europe in Spring
• Best Shoes for Traveling in Spring and Fall

Read these tips on how to pack for transitional weather .

What clothes should I wear in London in Spring?

Transform a temperate outfit on a chilly day with a scarf, hat, and tights. Skirts are fun but remember that it can get quite breezy, so you’ll have to wear double layers underneath.

If you’re in the countryside, be prepared for muddiness.

While the waterproof boots shown above will work for most trips, here are a few more ideas .

What shoes should I wear in London in spring?

As with your clothes, plan your shoes based on the weather and your planned activities. Choose no more than two to three pairs of shoe in neutral colors that can mix and match with all your clothing.

Make sure your sightseeing shoes are broken in properly. Opt for a pair that is comfortable and you can wear it for hours without discomfort.

Popular styles include light brogues, sneakers, or waterproof shoes. Note that the best waterproof shoes are not made out of rubber; instead choose leather ankle boots , which are the best shoe option for travel to Europe in spring.

While not recommended for all day sightseeing, ballet flats are also a good option should you want a dressier pair of shoes on your trip for warmer days or evenings. Alternatively, being closed toe wedges for a dressy alternative.

London Packing List for Spring

• Two short sleeve tops
• Two long sleeve tops
• Two additional tops
• One pair of blue jeans
• One pair of black ponte pants
• One additional bottom
• One rain or winter jacket
• One warm layer
• Thermals (if very cold)
• Three socks
• Ten underwear
• One versatile sleep set
• Waterproof ankle boots (sightseeing)
• Slip on sneakers (sightseeing)
• Ballet flat (dressing up)
• Wedges : (optional)

Shirt  | Tunic  | Long Sleeve | Shirt  | Sleeveless |  Jeans |  Skirt |  Pants | Shirtdress | Dress  | Raincoat |  Jacket  | Sandal |  Sneaker | Scarf | Crossbody

What to Wear in London in Summer

What is the weather in london in summer (june, july, august).

Summer can be warm but also very wet. As you plan what to pack for London, be prepared for both. Check BBC Weather before your trip to get the most accurate forecast. Don’t be surprised if it’s grey and gloomy in the summer!

If the forecast calls for sun, be bright and bold! Bust out the summer dresses, sunglasses, and hats. Once again, be aware of the breeze and consider layering. Sometimes jersey skirts and dresses hold their shape better than wispy skater styles.

You can’t go wrong with a leather jacket for cool summer days and nights.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for summer travel:

• Capsule Wardrobe for Summer
• Top Summer Dresses Perfect for Europe
• Lightweight Jackets for Easy Layers
• Best Walking Shoes for Europe’s Cobblestone Streets

What clothes should I wear in London in summer?

A cardigan and a scarf are essential layers for any summer outfit in case the sun is hiding behind the clouds. Use this easy packing tip to help you transform a summer dress into an autumn one if the weather is cooler than expected.

For added versatility, these are popular convertible travel dress styles!

A note on bags: Personally, I am a big fan of satchels for cities and backpacks for countryside. I feel that a satchel or tote bag with a zip can be safer than many daypacks, which might be unnecessary for city exploring.

Find out why cross-body purses are the best travel shoulder bags for women.

What shoes should I wear in London in summer?

When wondering what to pack for London, plan your shoes based on the weather and your planned activities. Choose no more than two to three pairs of shoe in neutral colors that can mix and match with all your clothing.

A comfy pair of sandals are great for walking around town if there’s sun in the forecast, but ankle boots , sneakers , and ballet flats are ideal the rest of the time.

Take a look at these London-appropriate women’s casual sneakers for travel!

London Packing List for Summer    

• Three short sleeve and/or sleeveless tops
• One ¾ sleeve top
• One additional top
• Two bottoms
• One maxi dress
• Two summer dresses
• One light rain jacket
• One light layer
• Comfortable sandals (sightseeing)

Shirt  | Tunic  | Long Sleeve | Sweater   | Blouse | Skirt   | Jeans | Jeans  |  Dress | Shirtdress | Coat | Jacket  | Sneaker  |  Boots | Scarf | Crossbody

What to Wear in London in Fall

What is the weather in london in fall (september, october, november).

Autumn is my favorite season to dress for. I love the crunchy leaves, the mild weather, and the earthy colors.

As the transitional period between summer and winter, things start to get colder and milder in the autumn. When planning what to pack for London this time of year, think about a woolly hat and stylish travel raincoat like these .

Start by reading these general tips on packing for autumn travel:

• How to Layer Clothes
• Use a Summer Dress to Pack Light in Fall

What clothes should I wear in London in fall?

If you prefer skirts and dresses rather than trousers, choose leggings and opaque tights to make outfits a little warmer.

These are the best leggings for women that travel as voted for by our readers!

When planning what to pack for London, remember that scarves are extremely useful. A warm, knit option will help keep you warm during this transitional season. When it’s not quite cold enough for a coat, then a jumper or cardigan combined with a hat and a scarf will do.

Remember, layering is key!

What shoes should I wear in London in fall?

When deciding what to pack for London, plan your shoes based on the weather and your planned activities. Choose no more than two-three pairs of shoe in neutral colors that can mix and match with all your clothing.

Popular styles include light brogues, sneakers or waterproof shoes are essential. Note that the best waterproof shoes are not made out of rubber; instead choose leather ankle boots , which are the best shoe option for travel to Europe in fall.

If it will be cold during your trip, opt for one of these chic leather boots – they’re waterproof but look good, too!

London Packing List for Fall

• Two dresses
• Waterproof leather boots (sightseeing)
• Canvas sneakers (sightseeing)
• Closed toe Wedges : (optional)

Shirt  | Sweater  | Blouse  | Sweater 2 | Longsleeve | Leggings  | Jeans | Pants  | Dress 1  | Dress 2 | Cardigan | Jacket | Boot 1 | Boots 2 |  Scarf | Backpack

What to Wear in London in Winter

What is the weather in london in winter (december, january, february).

For city exploring, add jeans to your London packing list. They aren’t appropriate for hiking, but I can’t think of anything more ideal to wear while walking around London on a frosty winter morning.

Wear leggings or tights under your jeans for extra warmth. These leggings are a popular choice with the TFG readers and are lined with fleece.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for winter travel:

• Capsule Wardrobe for Winter
• How to Pack for Cold Weather
• How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather (without the bulk)
• The Best Travel Shoes for Winter

Use these tips to learn how to stay warm in cold weather without looking like a snowman!

What clothes should I wear in London in winter?

Winter is cold. The key is to wear lots of layers (especially if you don’t fancy bringing along a heavy winter coat), drink plenty of tea, and be prepared for the possibility of snow.

When planning what to pack for London, choose tights , leggings , knee-high socks, and thermals like these for extra warmth. Don’t forget the essential winter woollies, either: hat , scarf , and gloves .

Find out why thermals are a must for traveling light (and staying warm) in winter!

What shoes should I wear in London in winter?

I find a comfy pair of waterproof ankle boots to be perfect. Soggy feet aren’t fun; neither are blisters. Be prepared for the wet as well as the cold.

Take a look at the best waterproof boots for travel!

Depending on the weather, you may even opt for a pair of warm winter boots . If it will be cold and rainy without snow, opt for cute and versatile waterproof leather boots instead.

Leather sneakers are also an option for mild days. (Tip: wear skin colored stockings underneath for discreet warmth around your ankles.)

London Packing List for Winter

• Three long sleeve sweaters
• One long sleeve dress
• One winter jacket
• Waterproof tall or ankle leather boots (sightseeing)
• Leather sneakers (sightseeing)
• Ballet flat or heeled ankle boot (dressing up)

What is the Best Luggage for London?

So the hard part’s out of the way; after much turmoil you’ve finally perfected your packing list for London and created a chic capsule collection – now it’s time to get packing! Which luggage will work best for you?

There are various things to consider when choosing the best luggage for Europe including a difference in carry on size, strict weight restrictions, mobility on the cobblestone streets, and long flights of stairs.

The best suitcase to have when traveling London is a rigid trolley case, ideally with four castors. The trolley should be divided into two compartments (not just one big compartment) for easy packing. These are easy to travel with on bumpy terrain.

For a European carry-on size bag, a backpack is always a safe option. It’s also the perfect fit for those of us who prefer to travel hands-free.

Compass Rose Compression Packing Cubes

Depending on how many days or weeks you’re traveling, you may want to use luggage organizers such as packing cubes ,  which allow optimum use of the space in your luggage, keeping everything organized and in place during your travels, and making the task of unpacking and repacking simple and stress-free.

As you’re headed to fashionable Europe, use an equally stylish carry-on , such as the Osprey Ozone , which is a personal favorite. Keep in mind that most of Europe’s budget airlines have a carry-on bag allowance of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airline’s individual baggage rules and regulations in advance.

Find out the most popular Europe travel bag styles according to our readers along with their tried and tested reviews.

When traveling to London, you’ll need some of the standard, essential toiletries, including:

• Shampoo and conditioner
• Moisturizer (face and body)
• Makeup (we recommend keeping it simple: mascara , concealer, and a lip tint that doubles as a blush)
• Hair ties and bobby pins
• Dry shampoo

Worried that all your toiletries, makeup, skincare, and hair styling tools won’t fit into your suitcase? Read these tips on how to travel size toiletries to learn how to make the most of limited space without sacrificing your routine!

We recommend you take the most important products in travel containers like these and try to either buy basics like shampoo and shower gel in Europe or use the items provided by hotels.

Also, consider your makeup–in many European cities, women opt for natural makeup focusing on a well groomed but not over-the-top appearance.

While a daily salon blow out isn’t necessary, be mindful of your hair and makeup. Find out if it’s necessary to bring a travel blow dryer here .

When choosing your styling tools, choose items that have dual voltage and bring along a travel adapte r for all your electronics. Just make sure to add all these items to your backpacking packing list for Europe so you don’t forget them.

Check out our guide to toiletries for more tips!

What Should I NOT Pack for London?

One unexpected issue that many travelers discover once they get to Europe are the cobblestone streets.

While great to look at, stone streets aren’t always the easiest to walk on and can make for sore feet even if you don’t normally have discomfort. Depending on the city, these streets can also be hilly, slippery when wet, and uneven.

Are Jeans Appropriate to Wear in London?

While Europeans tend to dress up more than Americans, you still can wear jeans in London. However, avoid acid wash and extremely distressed denim and opt for medium-dark blues and blacks. Black skinny jeans always look chic in Europe!

Are Leggings Okay to Wear in London?

Some travelers love wearing leggings for comfort, but they’re often too casual looking as pants for London. If you’re a big fan of leggings, consider pairing a black pair with long tunics during the spring, or wearing them under dresses and skirts in fall and winter.

What are the Best Shoes to Wear in London?

Based on reader recommendations, we suggest tall boots for winter and wedges for summer; other styles can be used interchangeably throughout the year.

Depending on the weather, flat ankle boots, boat shoes, or driving mocs are other top recommendations amongst our readers. They’re classic options and make the perfect alternative to ballet flats, especially if you need a little more room for soft insoles.

Here are the best travel shoes for London in warm weather:

• Flat walking sandal
• Slip-on sneakers

Here are the best travel shoes for London in cool weather:

• Ankle boots

London Travel Tips

Before you head on your tour of London , check out these frequently asked questions on traveling to London.

What’s the best time of year to visit London?

While summer offers perfect temperatures, it’s also the busiest time of year for visiting London. For this very reason, many experts say fall is the best season to visit London because the temperatures are still comfortable but there are fewer tourists.

Weather in London

In summer, you can expect sunny days in the 70s and occasionally in the 80s, with temperatures dropping into fall. Winter gets very cold, so prepare to bundle up – especially in December and January.

Never travel without checking the weather forecast as this will be your ultimate packing guide for London. Remember that each city will have its own weather pattern so check the forecast for all the destinations you plan to visit.

Use websites such as Accuweather or Holiday Weather for advanced forecasts and don’t forget to check the weather one week and three days before your trip as mother nature doesn’t run on a tight schedule.

What are the best accommodations in London?

We love Airbnb for accommodation in London. Sign up here for a free $40 credit!

I prefer to book “the entire home” instead of opting for shared accommodation on Airbnb. Aside from safety, I also like to feel like I’m living in the destination. It’s a small taste of local life plus you get more amenities than you would at a hotel such as a kitchen and washing machine.

Read these Airbnb tips for more info!

If you prefer the convenience and comfort of a hotel room, I like using both Agoda.com and Hotels.com . Tip: Hotels.com gives you a free night for every ten nights you book!

For hostels, we recommend Hostelworld and Hostelbookers . Always read the reviews before booking to get the best idea if the hostel is right for you. Some are quiet and family friendly while others are known for their party atmosphere.

Not sure about staying at a hostel? Read this.

Transportation

For flights, I like booking through Travelocity or Cheapoair (whichever one’s cheapest). Although I prefer Travelocity because they have a 24 hour money back guarantee.

To maximize your vacation time, fly into the city where you’re starting your trip and out of the city where your trip ends. Many times it’s the same price and saves you from having to spend extra time and money to go back to where you started your trip.

How do I get around London?

The Tube is a popular option to visit the site’s in London. Make sure to purchase an Oyster Card for £5 and top up with just the amount you need for the duration of your trip. Your Tube rides will be less expensive and you can return the Oyster Card at the end of your trip to get your £5 reimbursed.

Tip: the city is very walkable! All the major sites are within walking distance so don’t rely on the Tube too much! Take a free walking tour when you arrive to London so you can get oriented with the city.

Things to Do in London

London is one of the most amazing cities to visit because there are so many beautiful sites to take in. Follow our recommendations before you travel to London .

What are the best sites in London to see?

• Buckingham Palace
• British Museum
• Tower of London
• Westminster Abbey
• Tower Bridge

What are the best tours in London?

Some travelers prefer the guidance of professionals for planning their trip. If you’re a fan of tours, check out these top tours for London.

• Rick Steves’ Tours
• Secret Food Tours
• London City Tours
• The Original Tour

Along with these recommendations, one of my favorite type of tours to do when I travel are food tours. In London, I received a complimentary tour by Eating London and it was awesome. 

They also hosted me in Rome where I received a  complimentary Twilight Trastevere Tour and a Cooking Class with Nina. TFG readers and I both loved their tours! Read my reviews here and here .

For more city tours, New Europe has excellent tours and the best part? They’re free! All you have to do is tip your guide.

Where’s the best shopping in London?

London is synonymous with fashion. It’s a city filled with designer fashion, but if you are looking for more budget-friendly shops, try Topshop and Boots where you can get all your basic travel essentials.

Be sure to check out Piccadilly Circus or Oxford Circus for great shopping districts!

Compass Rose Secret Bra Wallet

Safety is a big concern whenever you travel, and in busy, touristy areas like London, pickpocketing can be a common occurrence. Taking a few safety precautions can help you feel less stressed during your travels.

How can I stay safe while traveling in London?

Be cautious about where you stash your cash so you don’t fall prey to muggings and pickpocketing. Make your clothing theft-proof and choose items with strong zippers.

Jeans are handy for this reason: you can put important items, like your wallet and phone, in your front pockets, where it’s very difficult for a wandering hand to snatch it. Add items like the Secret Bra Pocket and Underwear with Pockets to your packing list.

And be mindful of purse snatchers! They either slash the bottom of your bag so the content fall out or slash the strap. Wear your purse strap across your body and the zipper towards the front. For extra security, check out the “theft-proof” bags featured in this post about crossbody purses .

These are articles with other suggested anti-theft products:

• Money Belts and Anti-theft Accessories
• Best Anti-theft Bags for Women
• 6 Tools to Protect Your From Pickpockets in Europe

Remember, the safest place for your passport is locked in your accommodation. Carry a photocopy or other ID when you’re sightseeing or are out at night.

Read these tips on how to keep your passport safe when you travel!

Suggested Anti-Theft Accessories for London

• Bra stash , neck pouch , or  money belt  with RFID protection
• Anti-theft Crossbody Bags
• Passport case
• TSA-approved luggage lock
• Clothing with hidden pockets (like underwear ,   tops , and  scarves )

Key Takeaways:

• In general, day-to-day European style is more dressy than American style, but this does not mean business clothing. A nice blouse and well-tailored denim is a timeless uniform that can work in London just as well as any other part of Europe.
• Ultimately, choose comfortable, classic clothing that will transcend trends so you can look back at the pictures from your trip with fond memories.
• With shoes, always choose comfort over fashion as you’ll spend long hours on your feet – don’t forget to break them in!
• Elevators are not prevalent in local accommodation; be prepared to lift your own luggage up many flights of stairs and steep cobblestone hills.
• Avoid oversized, heavy luggage if you plan to use trains, buses, or budget flights as storage space is limited. You should be able to maneuver through train stations (and trains) with ease.
• Pickpockets are prevalent in all tourist cities, be aware of your surroundings and be practical about your belongings.
• ALWAYS check the weather before you travel.

For more ideas on what to wear in London, please read this  10 Step London Packing Guide !

What are your tips on what to pack for London and the rest of England? Comment below!

Please note: Most of Europe’s budget airlines have this carryon bag allowance: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airline’s individual baggage rules and regulations in advance.

For more tips, please read these Europe packing lists:

Suggested travel resources:

• Lonely Planet Europe on a shoestring
• Lonely Planet England (Country Guide)
• Travel Shoes for Europe
• The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe

Please read our Ultimate  Packing List for Europe  featuring stylish outfits and travel tips for 9 countries.

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67 comments.

Perfect list to pack while travelling to london. I am glad I bumped into your website. Now I can confidently pack whats necessary and leave the rest home. thank you very much.

So glad you found this helpful with your packing. Have an amazing time on all your travels!

We are planning soon a trip to London and it was great, that someone have already put all together for easier travel. Thanks.

I really appreciate your packing ideas for the different times of year! Planning a trip to England, and this is so helpful!

Great post! I’m going in a month and a half and I can’t wait!

Hi, I’m traveling with my wife and kids on mid of June 2023, I want to know what type of cloths to wear? summer cloths or winter or something in between?

Hi Ali, London is known for it’s 4 seasons in a day, so the best advice is to pack clothes that you can easily layer as needed.

You can experience the occasional heat wave soon followed by wind and cold. The weather can be unpredictable, which means you have to be prepared and always check the weather forecast before traveling!

to get the best advice about what the weather is like at that time of the year, I would highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post any questions you have there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/

It’s a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their travel advice and recommendations.

Have an amazing time!

I’d add a washcloth to the toiletries list, since some UK & European hotels don’t offer them. I’d also consider bringing a mini towel for the daytime if wet benches & seats might be encountered.

This and the lists for long trips have helped me so much with preparing for my year in London (which was cut short due to COVID). Thank you!

This site was CRUCIAL for my trips to Ireland and London in 2017!! This packing list saved me!

Thank you for creating these lists and tips – they’ve been very helpful for my upcoming trip, and especially helpful for my sister who hasn’t traveled abroad in decades.

Hello! i will be visiting London in the 1st week of May but am unsure of what to pack for my trip. i’ve asked various people and many told me that it’s still really cold and trenchcoats are not warm enough. while your website has provided me with a lot of useful information, i will like to seek some advice on what to wear for London this coming May (1st week) and if thermal wears are required?

Hi TT, the beat thing is to check the extended forecast to get the most accurate information for your trip. Right now it looks to be a high of 55F during the day and 35F at night. Layers are always suggested but the most accurate clothing will be based on the weather forecast for the week you’re going. Have a wonderful trip!

Just a quick question, I am going to London in like 8 days so not sure if this will get answered by then. I am just wondering if I do bring my Hunter boots will that make me stick out like a tourist. I’m sure we will anyway but just wondering. I HATE wet feet so I kind of want to bring them.

How up-to-date is this information? Are these fashions current for September 2017?

Hi Sally the visuals are used for inspiration so you can adjust the tips to meet your own personal style preferences and needs. Here are the full guidelines on how to use our packing lists: https://travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-use-the-travel-fashion-girl-packing-lists-and-guides/ Hope this helps!

Hello! 🙂 I found this post very helpful when I planned my 5 month-long trip to London in my home country which is Hungary. I was totally lost because I didn’t know how and WHAT to pack for this long trip. Eventually I was able to carry only a backpack with me. Now, I’ve been in London for 4 days and I have (almost 🙂 ) everything that I need.

Hi! So this might be an odd question, but I can’t seem to find anything written about it here on your site, which is still super helpful btw, but what about socks? I’m a Florida girl traveling to London in March 2017, so what’s cold to most people it’s REALLY cold to us Floridians, lol. So I’ve already been wrestling with the right shoes, jackets, and pretty much everything, but what about socks? Do you recommend a sock that is warm and also wicking, so your feet won’t get sweaty, eew, but also thin and lightweight so it doesn’t add bulk to your shoes? I’m used to spending probably 10-11 months in flip flops so preparing for this trip, has really been challenging, lol! Thanks so much for all of your great tips!

Hi Georgina! Thanks for reading! We actually had a reader ask for sock recommendations recently on the FB Page, there are some great recommendations there. Here’s the link: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/posts/1270845219605810?match=c29jaw%3D%3D I don’t think you will need heavy heavy socks that time of year, as it does start to get warmer in London around then! Enjoy your trip!

Hi! I will be visiting London in May next year and will like to know if the weather/season in May is appropriate for the weating of knee high HUNTER boots in London? Or will normal sneakers do the trick?

Sneakers or low boots would probably fine! The weather starts to get pretty mild in May. It may still be rainy, tho, so boots never hurt! Whatever you’re most comfortable in! Happy travels Tracy!

This list is so helpful! I’m packing for a 10 day trip to London in early September and I’m torn between the summer and fall clothes. I’ll err on the side of caution and go with the fall clothing. I was going to pack two jackets – a more stylish city jacket and a white raincoat, but I’m thinking to skip the raincoat in favor of am umbrella. Thanks TFGs!

Glad we could help Lindsey! Enjoy your trip!

Is shorts and T-shirt appropriate for London around July and August?

Or do I need to wear pants to avoid mosquitoes?

Hi Daisy, you might want to keep an eye on the weather forecast before you go. You might find that jeans and a sweater might be more appropriate this time of year. You shouldn’t have to worry about mosquitos in London. Check out weather.com for the extended forecast and weather averages before traveling. This layering idea should help you plan for your trip: https://travelfashiongirl.com/the-easy-packing-solution-for-trips-with-cold-and-warm-destinations/ Have a good time!

I normally love all your packing lists, but that London Autumn one makes me cringe! Of course, that’s the one I’m needing too – going in September. Any chance you can throw together? I would not be caught dead in #s 3 – 9 (with the exception of a long sleeve sweater…just not THAT long sleeve sweater). I usually get so inspired by your lists. Please help!

Thanks for the feedback Courtney! Here are some tips on how to apply our tips to meet your own styling needs: https://travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-use-the-travel-fashion-girl-packing-lists-and-guides/

I found the umbrella wasn’t helpful. I observed many being blown inside out. If you have a hood and or a scarf you will be fine.

Thanks for the feedback!

I live in London. Always remember to bring some kind of a jacket no matter how warm it might be where you are coming from. Even in the depths of summer there usually is a bit of a cool breeze, especially in the shade and after dark. Also, don’t forget that the UK is an island and the weather is usually very changeable in one day so layers are essential: on, off, on off all day! Tubes can be boiling and walking by the river chilly!

Great tips, thank you!

I always put my tablet or laptop into a bag that I can put it next to me on the plane. I use a carry on luggage for 3-4days but 2 weeks defo a big suitcase. I would recommend also if you have young kids 1-5 pack their clothes in a suitcase at a time (2 sets a clothes in a suit case for the kids sharing). For girls defo have their own suitcase because they have more stuff than boys..

Hi, we are travelling to London on the 4th of august and staying for 4 nights and then heading off to Germany for 4 days . We are then heading off to U S to for couple of weeks I am a bit of a fashionista and need to know what sort of shoes, clothes etc. i will need. We will be away for amonth before returning home . Please help

Hi Dimpy, sorry to have missed your question! I hope you found our ten step packing guide for Europe with extensive tips for trips of any length: https://travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guides/10-step-packing-guide-europe/

Hello my name is Marlene I will be going to London on 9/12/18 my first time!! not sure what to wear so these tip on here was very helpful

Hi Marlene, so pleased you found the tips helpful!! Have the most amazing trip!! 🙂

Hi, we are travelling to London on the 25th of June and staying with family for 4 nights and then heading off to Paris for a week. We are then returning to London for a week and hiring a car to explore some ancestry out in the country for another week. Warwickshire, Cornwall, Bath, . A few more places before we get back to Sidcup. I am a bit of a fashionista and need to know what sort of shoes, clothes etc. i will need. We will be away for amonth before returning home to Adelaide Australia. Please help

Hie Sue, looks like you found the right article to help you pack. Here’s a few more to guide you:

https://travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-london-summer-style-guide/ https://travelfashiongirl.com/the-only-backpacking-packing-list-for-europe-youll-ever-need/

I’ll also post your question on Facebook to get more feedback for you. Get updates here: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl

Thanks for reading!

i’m going to London in a couple of months and this post was very helpfull!

Great, thank you!

Hi! I will be in London this weekend 😀 Can anyone tell me what the weather is like right now?… Coats still in? or out?

Hi Ayesha. I always recommend checking the extended forecasts on weather.com. you probably want to always pack a coat or jacket for London year round. Have fun!

Hello!! I’m visiting London England with my best friend in April of 2014!!! I have a medium size northface Jacket I plan on wearing while touring and sightseeing!! Would a jacket of that size would be appropriate for that time of year in England,will the weather be to warm?? Please help!!

Hi Patrice, I don’t think you’ll ever have to worry about the weather being to warm in England 🙂 It does have it’s warm weather once in a while (even heat waves) but I’d always pack a warm coat – even in the Summer it’s usually more grey and rainy than hot and sunny.

Your coat doesn’t have to be ultra-thick – your best bet is to plan on layering. Learn about layering in this post: https://travelfashiongirl.com/packing-tips-and-travel-clothing-for-multi-season-trips/

Great tips for travel, thanks so much! I will be in Ireland late April-early May and was wondering about tall boots. Is it too late to still wear these at that time, or would it be best to stick with an ankle boot? Thanks for the advice!

Hi Dawn, I wouldn’t think it would be too late any time 🙂 I’ll go ahead and post your question on Facebook so keep an eye out: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl?ref=hl

Boots with heels- no no? Going to be there in a few weeks!

Heels are always a travel no-no 😉 but it depends on the type of travel and where you’ll be going. Perhaps boots with no heel for walking and with a heel to dress up?

Thanks for the tips. Where are some great but affordable places to shop for clothes in England?

Great question, I’ll post it on facebook 🙂

Primark! Born and bred in Liverpool and I’ve yet to meet anyone who doesn’t shop there – v.cheap! (like £4 UK pounds for a top, £6 jeans, £8 dress) pick up lots of dressy flats and shoes there too so you dont have to pack heels

thanks for the tip! get all my clothes at Primark when I travel to the Uk 🙂

Would it be appropriate to bring tall riding boots to wear in London in the autumn?

Yes, that’s a great idea! Have fun 🙂

Hi, question about shoes for London in August. I was planing on bringing my pair of Sperry slip on boat shoes and a pair of sandals, however i’m wondering if I will get cold at night or if it rains. Would you recommend bringing shoes a little warm for walking around at night and or weather? thank you , Ricki

Hi Ricki, I think boat shoes sound perfect however it does get cold and it does rain – year round. Add a pair of ankle boots or regular boots – they are always the way to go 🙂

Thank you, this is a very helpful blog 🙂

where did you get the waterproof winter boots ?

Hi Amber, I’ll let Lottie answer this one 🙂

I have a feeling that those particular ones came from New Look, a clothes shop in England. But they’re pretty easy to find and a pair of suede boots can always be waterproofed with waterproofing spray.

Great post! I love how there is an umbrella for every season… it really is an essential! 😉

haha yes, that one caught me by surprise two summers ago in England. You can never be to ready!

I would wear anyone of these pieces!

Lottie sure knows how to dress! Love her picks too 🙂

What a great post! I always find packing for colder climates a challenge!

Thanks! It’s a challenge for me too as I’m never in cold climates. I am now though and I’m happy with my travel wardrobe choices – i’m staying warm 🙂

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The 10 Best Things to Do in London in August 2024

London in summer truly transforms the city into a vibrant hub of activity, with the events calendar overflowing with options to suit every taste. The warm weather brings an unmistakable cultural buzz that permeates every corner of the city, from bustling outdoor markets and music festivals to open-air theatre productions and art exhibitions. These are our favorite activities for London in August!

Related articles

• Die besten Events im Juli in London 2023

We’ve curated a list of our favorite activities for experiencing London in August. From taking strolls along the South Bank to enjoying the myriad of street food options at Camden Market, and not forgetting the chance to catch a world-class performance at the Royal Albert Hall, London in August offers endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, foodie, or simply searching for some summer fun, London’s dynamic scene has something special for you.

table of content

Weather in London in August

In August, London typically experiences some of its warmest weather of the year, with average temperatures ranging from about 14°C (57°F) in the early mornings and late evenings to 24°C (72°F) during the day. This month often brings a mix of sunny days and occasional rain showers, so it’s wise to prepare for both when packing. Humidity can be higher, making some days feel quite warm. Overall, August in London is great and one of the best times to explore the outdoor attractions and events the city has to offer.

The best things to do in London in August

Regent's park open air theatre.

Located in Regent’s Park, London, the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre is an exceptional outdoor venue offering a unique theatrical experience amidst nature. Known for its intimate atmosphere, it hosts a variety of performances from Shakespeare to modern dramas and musicals, mainly in summer. Since its inception in 1932, it has become a beloved element of London’s summer cultural scene, drawing audiences seeking to enjoy live theatre under the stars, enriching both local and tourist experiences.

Kids Week am West End

It’s called a week, but it’s a whole month of discounted or free West End deals for young people 17 and younger, so of course it’s attractive to all families traveling to London in August.

You rarely get to enjoy best-selling plays like Mamma Mia or Frozen as cheaply as you can with Kids Week .

The bill: one child 17 or younger gets in free when accompanied by a full-price adult . Up to two others then get into the show at half price.

Premier League

The Premier League starts in August​. This makes it an exciting time for sports fans to visit London, as the city buzzes with the anticipation and fervor of the football season’s kickoff. The atmosphere in pubs and stadiums is electric, with fans gathering to support their teams. Visiting London during the start of the Premier League season offers a unique experience to immerse oneself in the local culture and passion for football.

Luna Cinema

The Luna Cinema is a unique outdoor cinema experience offering screenings throughout the UK. This one-of-a-kind experience allows you to watch premier movies in some of England’s most picturesque settings. Last year, The Luna Cinema elevated its enchanting outdoor cinema experience by hosting screenings in front of the majestic Kensington Palace. With high-quality screens and sound, each screening was a seamless blend of cinematic brilliance and the natural beauty of one of London’s most iconic landmarks, crafting unforgettable summer evenings under the stars. We can’t wait to see which amazing venues they include this year!

Final of the Coral Challenge Cup

As August draws to a close, Notting Hill erupts in a dazzling display of feathers, rhinestones, and glitter for the UK’s most vibrant street fiesta: the Notting Hill Carnival. Echoing the spirit of Rio de Janeiro’s famous celebration, this carnival bursts with color, extravagance, and allure.

Attracting around 1.5 million participants, London’s Caribbean community hosts the world’s second-largest carnival, transforming the streets into a dynamic dance floor. Over 50,000 performers, adorned in spectacular costumes, ignite the atmosphere with electrifying choreographies, ensuring the party heats up, regardless of the weather. Held during the late August bank holiday weekend, it’s an event not to be missed.

The BBC Proms is an iconic eight-week summer festival of orchestral classical music held annually in London. Centered at the Royal Albert Hall, it features a wide range of performances from world-class orchestras, ensembles, and soloists. Known for its informal atmosphere and the “Promming” tradition, the Proms aim to make classical music accessible to a broader audience.

Harry Potter London Walking Tour

Discover the magic of Harry Potter and hidden central London highlights on an interactive tour. It unveils secret spots and extends from the heart of the city to King’s Cross Station.

August is a fantastic time for a Harry Potter walking tour in London. The weather is generally warm and pleasant, enhancing the experience of visiting outdoor filming locations. This period also aligns with the peak tourist season, offering a lively atmosphere as you explore the magical sites. Just remember, it might be busier, so booking your tour in advance is wise.

50-Minute River Thames Speedboat RIB Tour

Experience the thrill of James Bond with a 50-minute Speedboat Tour on the Thames, from Embankment Pier to Tower Bridge. Feel the adrenaline and get goosebumps as you pass film locations, all while the iconic James Bond soundtrack plays, immersing you in the world of 007.

Sunset at Primrose Hill

Watching the sunset from Primrose Hill is one of the most popular summer activities in London. It offers one of the most stunning panoramic views of London’s skyline. The longer daylight hours and typically warmer weather of August create perfect conditions for enjoying a breathtaking sunset. It’s a peaceful way to end a day of exploring, offering a picturesque backdrop of the city as it transitions from day to night. Remember to bring a blanket and maybe some snacks to enhance the experience!

Should I visit London in August?

London truly comes alive in August! Many argue that it’s the quintessential time to explore the UK’s capital, and they have a point. August in London is a spectacle of open-air concerts, theatrical productions under the stars, enchanting evenings at rooftop bars, and a plethora of exciting sporting events. The city basks in a lively ambiance, complemented by generally warm, pleasant weather, making outdoor ventures exceptionally enjoyable. With an unmatched events calendar, London in August offers an unparalleled experience that’s hard to beat!

Die BESTEN Events im Juli in London 2024

I love traveling in Europe and I am passionate about writing about my travels. The cultural peculiarities of each region always fascinate me. I enjoy exploring and discovering the best-kept secrets of each town or village. I love road trips as much as city breaks; I love visiting an art gallery and also the magic of musicals or discovering new delicacies in a street market. In this blog, I write about all my travel adventures and my best tips and tricks! Auf Loving Travel schreibe ich über alle meine Reiseerlebnisse und gebe euch meine besten Tipps und Tricks!

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What to wear in London in August

Wondering what to wear in London in August?  In this guide we will tell you how to look stylish in London in the summer for the heat, sightseeing and more.

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

Table of Contents

Weather in London in August

August is peak season in London and crowds and temperatures are at their highest. As such you need to pack for being comfortable in the heat and the crowds.

But what sort of temperatures can you expect in London in August?

How hot is London in August?

Although not the hottest month in London, that honor goes to July, August is till pretty hot. Most days you can expect temperatures above 20C (low 70s). However at the end of the month the temperatures tend to hover around 22-23C (mid 70F) in the afternoon.

And it is not unheard of for the mercury to reach 28-30C (mid 80sF) on some days during this month.

Therefore it is important to pack light and breathable fabrics if you are visiting during this month. But remember if your visit covers two months be sure to check out our other London monthly guides. The weather does change in London month to month, and you never known when there are some special events that do require at alteration to the dress code.

• What to wear in London in July
• What to wear in London in September

Is it rainy in London in August?

London can be rainy whatever month you visit. And although August is one of the hottest months of the year it is still likely you will experience some rain during your visit.

Typically there is c.50mm of rainfall in August which is spread across 13 days. However the temperature doesn’t usually drop too much with the rain so you shouldn’t be concerned with brining thick waterproof wear with you.

A light jacket and umbrella should suffice.

How do Locals Dress in London In August

There are two things that all Londoners know. Firstly that the city can get stifling hot in summer, especially as few places in London have air conditioning. And secondly that keeping a compact umbrella in your bag is always a good idea no matter the season.

As such you are likely to see lots of warm weather attire. However it is worth noting that as a multicultural and relatively casual city you will find that this presents itself in many different ways. For instance I tend to opt for loose flowing maxi and midi dresses while you will also see shorts and crop tops on those in the city for leisure rather than business purposes.

Therefore you can dress however you feel most comfortable for the heat.

Note : if you are traveling to other cities and regions in the UK be sure to check out our other monthly guides:

• What to wear in the Cotswolds
• What to wear in Cornwall
• What to wear in Oxford

London Dress Codes to be Aware of

Contrary to popular belief, not many places in London actually have strict dress codes. The four main places you may be worrried about a dress code are:

• religious settings
• fine dining restaurants and
• at afternoon tea.

And the truth is that some of these places do have dress codes and some do not.

For instance not many churches in London have dress codes. St Pauls Cathedral and Westminster Abbey for instance. This always surprises me as the Vatican City in Italy and the Sagrada Familia in Spain have very strict dress codes. However we do recommend you being modest in these places out of respect even if there isn’t a specific dress code that is enforced.

Another place that people worry about dress code in London is in the theatre. While some people do dress up to go to London theatre shows, you will also see people in more formal wear or even in fancy dress dependent on the show many people will wear casual attire. For this reason we say dress how you are comfortable and to suit the rest of your day’s itinerary. But for a full guide on what to wear to London theatre shows check out this more in-depth guid.

So lastly we will look at restaurants and high tea. The truth is that some of the higher end and Michelin Starred restaurants in London will have dress codes.

Some of these have a smart casual dress code so it is worth checking out our what to wear to dinner in London guide as well as your chosen restaurant to check you comply.

Afternoon tea is also a place where you can expect dress codes to be enforced where one is stipulated. For a full guide on what to wear to afternoon tea in London for specific location dress codes as well as outfit inspiration for every season.

Considerations for London August Packing List

Before we get onto the exact items to pack for London in August, it is worth pointing our some key considerations such as:

Natural Fabrics

Cottons, linens and silks are all natural fabrics. Natural fabrics opposed to man made fabrics cope better in hotter temperatures. You will be cooler and will sweat less in natural fabrics so we recommend packing these types of fabrics if you are visiting during the summer months.

Nothing that Drags on the Floor

Though any visit to London will inevitably involve a lot of walking you will also spend a good deal of time travel on public transport such as the London Underground.

Few stations on the underground have lists and require escalator access. For this reason we recommend sticking to midi and shorter dresses and skirts to prevent the risk of your bottoms being caught in the mechanism.

If you like me prefer maxi dresses however just be sure to check that they do not drag on the floor.

So now you know what to expect from the weather, what should you wear in London in August?

What to wear in London in August for women

Skirts and dresses

Although August is not the hottest month, it is one of them. Therefore I recommend packing lots of summer skirts and summer dresses for London at this time of year.

And due to the range of styles and fashion you tend to see in London you can choose the style and length you feel most comfy in.

Skirts and dresses also work for day and night in London and can be easily dressed up or down to meet dress code requirements.

If skirts and dresses aren’t your thing then trousers are a great choice. Personally I rarely wear jeans in London in August as I find it too hot.

For this reason I recommend packing looser fitting linen and cotton trousers instead. However if you want to wear jeans then there is no reason why you can’t from a dress code point of view.

You won’t find many locals wearing shorts into the office. However you will find that locals and international tourist will wear shorts while sightseeing.

Denim Jacket

Coats are not required in London in the summer. However a jacket is always a good idea.

Any style of jacket will do but you can never go wrong with a denim jackets in London in summer.

Loose blouses are perfect for London in the summer for both sightseeing and going out to dinner. They can be dressed up or down for night and day, and work in almost all venues that you will be visiting.

I don’t think I every visit London without a t shirt on the packing list. For summer we recommend short sleeve versions. But feel free to express yourself in whatever way you please as you will see plain, patterned, graphic and slogan tees on the streets of London.

I don’t think any of my European packing lists don’t have a pashmina on. For me they are the numebr one travel accessory. It can act as a scarf to dress or a a more casual outfit but is a useful extra layer on cooler nights and days.

PJs   or Nightie

Lightweight pyjamas and nighties are an essential for anywhere in England in summer. Only a limited number of British hotels, airbnbs and holiday rentals will have air conditioning so you will want lightweight nightwear and loungewear with you just in case your accommodation falls into this category.

The sun can be bright in London so I definitely wouldn’t go in Augsut without a pair of shades that offers good UV protection.

Underwear and Socks

Goes without saying.

Top Tip:  We recommend packing sneaker socks and some odour eaters if you have room in your case just in case your feet do get sweaty when wearing sneakers to sightsee around the city. There is nothing worse than stinky and sweaty shoes.

What to Wear in London in August Packing List for Men

For men visiting London in August we recommend adding the following items to your packing list:

• A Mixture of long and short sleeve t shirts for day time and night are perfect for August. Polo shirts are also good in London for very warm nights in London.
• Shirts – mix of long and short sleeves is perfect for this time of year.
• Trousers – we recommend selecting natural fabrics such as cottons and linen. Jeans can be too hot for the day however can be good for evenings in August.
• Blazer / Linen Jacket – perfect for smarter restaurants in London where you may need a jacket such as high end afternoon teas.
• Smarter Pair of Shoes for dinner

Best Shoes for London in August

Sneakers are my number one shoe for London. Both locals and tourist will wear sneakers in the city and you will all many of styles from bright white, sports trainers to more fashion sneakers. My advice is to wear whatever is your most comfortable pair for walking.

London is quite a casual city and any trip to London will involve a lot of walking a lot around the city. And as a historic city you will find there are lots of cobbles and uneven walkways in older parts of the city as well as stairs and escalators to contend with on public transport. For this reason I recommend wearing sneakers on most days in London.

However please note that some of the more upscale restaurants will not allow sneakers / trainers so do check your restaurant dress code. Also it is common for nightclubs in London to say no sneakers.

If you want to know what to wear in London at night check out this post.

For this reason I tend to wear sandals in London in summer.

Sandals are great for London in August. They are suitable for more upscale restaurants and if you pick a pair with good arch support are good for walking in the heat.

If you want a shoe with height in London wedges are the best bet. They cope well with cobbles and won’t get caught in escalators better than thin heeled sandals.

Also it is worth mentioning that stilettos are definitely on my what not to wear in London list because they are a hazard on escalators and cobbles.

What to Pack for London in August (Non Clothing)

Now you know the clothes you should bring to London what else should you pack for visiting this amazing city in Summer?

We recommend packing the below of London in August:

• Compact UMbrella – essential for any month in London.
• Aloe Vera / Aftersun
• Charging Equipment
• Battery Pack
• Travel Adaptor for electronics
• Crossbody Bag  – anti theft type.

August: if you have room in your suitcase then you can bring toiletries with you. However toiletries are very easy to buy in London in supermarkets such as Tescos and Sainsburys of which there are many express versions across the city or the beauty chains such as Superdrug and Boots. For this reason we would leaving the toiletries at home and buying them on arrival to save on space in your suitcase.

What to wear in London in August FAQs

Do i need coat in london in august.

Given the weather in London in August you shouldn’t need a coat. However you can get cooler days and even cooler evenings even in August.

For this reason we recommend bringing a jacket with you for London in August. Feel free to bring any style you like but you will see many denim jackets in London this time. Leather tends to be too hot in summer in London.

Do you need a raincoat for London in August?

London isn’t overly rainy in August but you are likely to see some on your vacation. The good news is that it probably won’t be bad enough to warrant bringing a raincoat with you. When I am in London in August I tend to rely on my good old trusty travel umbrella.

Do I need swimwear in London in August?

You will only need to bring swimwear to London in August if any of the following applies to your and the rest of your vacation itienrary:

• you are staying at a London hotel with a pool (there aren’t that many) – our favourite one that does have a pool is One Aldwych. The pool plays music when you swim underwater. Check before travel if your hotel has this amenity and if it is open at time of travel
• you plan on visiting a lido in London to go outdoor swimming – my favorite one is at Hampstead Heath.
• you are traveling to another place in the UK or abroad where you have access to the pool or are going to the coast such as Brighton, Bournemouth or Cornwall.

If none of these things apply to you then you should be safe to leave the swimwear at home.

Do you have any questions about what to wear in London in August that we haven’t answered here? Then pop us a comment below and we will do our best to answer them .

London, England   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Doug Armand | Getty Images

Best Times To Visit London, England

The best time to visit London is March through May when the temperatures are mild and the city's parks are green and blooming. However, late spring – along with summer – is also prime tourist season, and hotel and flight prices reflect the surge. You're more likely to find airfare and accommodation deals in the fall and winter though you'll also encounter chilly temperatures. December in London is also an incredibly popular place to be during the holidays, so expect the streets to be crowded with both English and international tourists. And no matter when you travel, you should pack an umbrella: London is notorious for experiencing misty days and showers year-round. If you have any concerns related to the weather, crowds or other unpredictable factors, you might want to consider an international travel insurance policy  or a cancel for any reason plan for more extensive coverage.

Another thing to keep in mind: it's nearly impossible to escape crowds in London. Along with being one of the biggest cities in Europe, London is one of the most popular destinations to visit in the world , so no matter what time of year you go, you're bound to run into lots of tourists.

Weather in London, England

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit London, England

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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• Best Areas in London
• London Weather
• Things To Do
• Where To Stay
• Where Is London
• New Articles!
• Visiting London in August

visiting london in August 2024

Summer in london: august events, tours and attractions.

The experience of visiting London in August is always a delight and surprise, no matter how many times you visit us, which makes it one of the best tourist destinations you will ever encounter.

Throughout the summer there will be several outdoor festivals and events, including the Notting Hill Carnival and the Thames Festival, which will be taking place. During the summer months, this vibrant city offers a wide range of open-air concerts, street performers, and street food.

Make the most of your visit to this dynamic and exciting city this August with our list of top things to do in London, whether you are a music lover, history buff, or sports fanatic.

10 best things to do in August

• Fashion and design exhibits can be seen at the Victoria and Albert Museum
• Borough Market is a bustling hub of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and artisanal foods. Explore the other markets in London.
• The Regent's Park London has stunning gardens, tree-lined pathways, large lakes, and a variety of recreational facilities such as sports fields. Explore more beautiful parks in London.
• Take part in the Notting Hill Carnival , one of Europe's largest street festivals
• The BBC Proms in the Park are an event that will provide live music and fireworks for you to enjoy
• The Harry Potter Studio Tour offers a rare opportunity to see the sets and props that were used in the movies.
• Enjoy the views of the river and city skyline while strolling along the South Bank.
• The famous grass courts of the Wimbledon Tennis Club can be seen on a visit to the historic club.
• Discover the famous Magna Carta at the British Library , along with other historical manuscripts.
• Experience the vibrant and trendy Brick Lane neighbourhood on a stroll through its streets.

What To Do In London In August: London Eye  |  Tower of London | Westminster Abbey | The Buckingham Palace  | Visit A Wide Range of Markets  | Madame Tussauds

weather in london for august

The weather in London on August is usually mild to warm as temperatures start to drop from their peaks in the previous months. It is also known that London is quite rainy during August, with an average of 10 rainy days per month. It is therefore recommended to bring a variety of clothing options, including light layers and a waterproof jacket.

London weather in early August experiences warm days which tend to decrease gradually towards the end of the month.

London weather for late August is usually warm and mild with temperatures slowly dropping, making it a great time for outdoor activities before autumn's cooler temperatures arrive.

Explore our detailed guide to the weather details in August.

top tours in london

Certainly, London is known for its excellent selection of tours that make you feel like you are on an exciting trip when you are there. Here is what we suggest.

London Kew gardens admission ticket

Stroll along an elevated walkway to explore acres of glass gardens.  Among London's most renowned World Heritage Sites, Kew Gardens, one of the largest in the world, is the place where you can discover botanical galleries, step inside a royal palace, and discover 250 years of royal history.

Book Your Admission Tickets From Here

Madame Tussauds, London eye & Sea Life combo ticket

Save 40% on London's top sights with a single pass. Along with Madame Tussauds and Sea Life, the London Eye offers 360° rotating views of the city. The validity period of the card begins three months after it has been activated.

Book Your Combo Tickets

first-time visitor travel questions

Every visitor has questions about travelling to a new destination. We have put together the most popular questions and dedicated guides for each.

• What is the weather like and how does it fluctuate on a month-by-month basis?
• Which neighbourhoods are best to stay in London?
• What can I do in London on a rainy and stormy day?
• Which areas around London can I visit and have a good time?
• Are there any free attractions in London for a budget-friendly holiday?
• Will you be visiting London for the first time? Explore our essential tips!
• Are you wondering whether London is worth visiting? Check out our guide!
• Packing for London? Check out all the essential things you must pack!
• What currency does London use? A detailed guide into using the currency.

bank holidays for august

• Summer Bank Holiday: Monday 26th August 2024

other holidays for this month

• Summer Holidays:  Between the months of July, August, and September, are the school summer holidays.

London's Current Events for August

As summer is on full swing there are plenty of things to do in August . Visitors to the city can take in several events, exhibitions, and performances in August.

Notting Hill Carnival

Every year you can join London’s biggest street festival, the Notting Hill Carnival with elaborate colourful floats, music, and tastes of the Caribbean. Held during the last weekend in August, incorporating Monday the bank holiday where the streets of west London come to life with 50,000 performers.

Event Date:  Sunday 25th to Monday 26th August 2024

BBC Proms Classical Music Festival

The BBC Proms is a yearly two-month-long classical music festival that aims to expose as many people as possible to the best classical music. One of the most well-liked events in London, with reasonable costs and a relaxed atmosphere. Although concerts occur in several locations throughout the city, major events are performed at the Royal Albert Hall.

Event Date:  Friday 19th July to Saturday 14th September 2024

The Hundred

Experience the thrill of The Hundred cricket event at storied venues such as London's Lord's Cricket Ground and Kia Oval. Compete against elite athletes using 100 balls for each team in quick matches. Guests will enjoy a day of exciting action and memorable memories at this family-friendly event.

Event Date: To be Announced

Pokémon Go Fest

You can enjoy an entertaining gaming event at London's Pokémon Go Fest. Discover new places, capture Pokémon, and accomplish tasks as you progress through the game. People of all ages will enjoy the events and opportunities to socialize there. London is a great place for adventure!

Event Dates: To be Announced

Bartholomew Fair

Bartholomew Fair is a historic event hosted in London that dates back to the Middle Ages, reimagining London's ancient fair of 890 years ago. It included three weeks of free performances in London's City. Shops, restaurants, and entertainment draw people from around the world to this vibrant fair. Get a taste of London's diverse ethnic past and festive atmosphere.

Best theatre shows in london

Many internationally renowned theatres and productions are located in the West End, an area of London that attracts millions of tourists each year. Discover London's hottest shows.

Having won the hearts of over 60 million people around the world, it has become one of the most celebrated movies of all time because of its timeless songs and the gorgeous setting on an idyllic Greek island paradise. The movie has become a classic.

Book Your Seat For Mamma Mia Show

the phantom of the opera

It has been a popular performance around the world since 1986. The musical consists of some of the finest songs composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber and the best lyrics written by Charles Hart.

Book Your Phantom Of The Opera Tickets

It is a great idea to book your tickets and seats as early as possible to find the perfect ones.

• Jersey Boys - Trafalgar Theatre
• Magic Mike Live - Hippodrome
• Heathers - The Musical - The Other Palace - Main Stage

Related Page:   13 top free museums in london

best tourist tours in london

Consider leaving London for a day trip. Two of the top tourism trips have been selected by us. London is well-known for the wide range of tours it provides; this is your chance to embark on an enjoyable, fascinating journey.

Westminster to Greenwich river thames cruise

For an excellent panoramic view of London, consider taking a river cruise from Westminster Pier to Greenwich. During this cruise, you'll be treated to live commentary and have the opportunity to witness some of London's most iconic landmarks.

Book Your River Thames Cruise

Half-day street art tour and workshop

During this workshop and walking tour, you will learn about a variety of street art techniques in the East End of London. Embark on an inspiring stroll to witness some of the finest street art in the world, then return to the workshop to craft your very own spray-paint masterpiece!

Book Your Art Tour and Workshop Here

fun Adventure experiences in London

Step outside your comfort zone during your next trip to this dynamic city by trying an adventure tour, unlike anything you've experienced before.

Tottenham Hotspur stadium tour

Experience the excitement of exploring behind the scenes at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, just like your favourite players do. Discover the ins and outs of the club's daily operations and immerse yourself in the history of this iconic venue.

Book Your Stadium Ticket

Wembley Stadium Guided Tour

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Step into the shoes of your favourite stars and experience the ultimate all-access tour of the UK's largest sports and music arena. From exclusive VIP areas to the locker rooms, you'll get an insider's look at all the spaces normally reserved for big stars.

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tourist attractions to visit when visiting london in august

Take advantage of your visit to London and create unforgettable memories by exploring its iconic locations. Check out our suggestions to fulfil your dreams.

Borough Market

A bustling food market in the heart of the district, this market is home to a wide variety of fresh produce, artisanal products, international cuisines, and, of course, a bustling market where you can indulge your senses in a wide range of delicious foods.

the Big Ben

There is no doubt that the Big Ben clock tower has become a symbol of the timeless elegance and charm of London as well as the timelessness of its iconic bell, which has become synonymous with the tower since its construction.

related page: the ultimate guide to the tower bridge in london

where to stay in london in august

It is a good idea to set a budget for your stay especially when visiting London in August. If you know where to look, there are affordable options available in the city of London even though it can be an expensive place to live. If you're on a tight budget, consider a hostel or a budget hotel, or if you're willing to splurge, choose a luxury hotel.

Explore the best of London's neighbourhoods to stay in or book with ease on Booking.com .

Related Hotel Guides:  South Bank  | Mayfair |  Covent Garden  |  Soho  |  Paddington  | Paddington Station |  Marylebone  | Near the  london eye , Tower Bridge , Buckingham Palace , Wimbledon Stadium  |  Luxury Hotels

We hope this guide to visiting London in August has energized you and left you eager to experience all that this vibrant city has to offer this month. With cultural festivals and thrilling outdoor activities on every corner, London is a destination full of excitement and adventure.

For more ideas on things to do in London, be sure to visit our month-by-month page . And don't miss out on our London in September and London in July guides for more fantastic inspiration.

frequently asked questions about august in london

Is August a recommended month for visiting London?

Booking in advance is recommended to avoid disappointment when visiting London during August, when many events and festivals are happening, from the world-famous Notting Hill Carnival to outdoor cinemas and concerts.

How much does it typically cost to travel to London in August?

Many factors determine how much it costs to travel to London in August. There are higher prices for everything during August since it is the peak tourist season. Travelling during the off-season can save money for budget-conscious travellers.

Does London get busy in August?

During the first half of August, London can get very busy. In Europe, many schools have summer holidays during this time, so more tourists and families are visiting. If you plan to visit during this time, you should book accommodations and attractions in advance.

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Photo sources

• Borough Market - Photo by Bruno Martins on Unsplash
• Tottenham Statdium - Arne Müseler / www.arne-mueseler.com , CC BY-SA 3.0 DE , via Wikimedia Commons
• Wembley Stadium - Image by Chris Schweiger from Pixabay
• London Street Art - Image by scooterenglasias from Pixabay
• Kew Gardens - Photo by hoch3media on Unsplash

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Packing Tips

What To Pack For A Trip To London – Summer & Spring Packing Lists

Last Updated on 7 November, 2023

So heading to England and wondering what to pack for a trip to London? Well, you are in luck! We are going to be talking all things packing, cute spring and summer outfits when it comes to figuring out what to wear in London in Spring and Summer . From trench coats and duster coats to pack from spring and summer in London. Dresses, totes, and shoes to pack for a trip to London .

Let’s face it, London has the craziest weather, but as I write this, we have the most beautiful weather in London. It’s of course also the weekend Prince Harry and Meghan Markel just got married so the weather Gods are truly in our favour this weekend in London and the UK.

London Spring weather has also been great this year.  Spring/Summer in London means picnics, little use of the underground in favour of walking around and enjoying the sunshine in London. This means, you need to pack accordingly for your trip to London. Below are some tips!

Tips On What To Pack For London Summer Outfits and Spring Clothing

When it comes to London visitors, the majority tend to think that London is just grey all the time. Well, their may be an element of truth in that but that doesn’t stop us putting together cute outfits to wear in the summer. So this post in a way to help you figure out what to wear while visiting London . Yes, it can be a little cold but from March onwards our weather is starting to thaw and you can start to add a bit more colour into your wardrobe as the days start to get longer.

When it comes to how to dress in London, as one of the world’s best fashion capitals we are as individual as they come so it comes to travel clothes for London, I find that classics whether that’s cute summer dress or a comfortable pair of jeans, comfort is key. As much as Londoners love to be at the forefront or trends we also love our elegant classics, a beautiful mac coat, feminine

What To Pack For London In Summer & Spring

Below are some of my tips for what to include in your packing list for London. Below should also give you an idea as to how people dress in London in Spring and Summer. Also look out for my winter packing list for London later in the year.

Mix Of The Styles Of Dresses You Pack For London

London weather can be a hit and miss sometimes but when you are in the city during a week or weekend when London is bathed in cloud-free sunshine, prepare for plenty of sun busking in the beautiful parks in London . Parks like Regents Park are super popular during Spring and Summer weather in London. During this time the last thing you want is to have the wrong type of clothes packed for your trip to London. So, in terms of what to pack for London, mix up the type and style of dresses you pack for London.

Plenty of linen dresses , tunic style of dresses and light knitted dresses, in addition to maybe a shirt dress or two. Varying the styles and weight of material means you are covered for when the weather turns sour. Dresses like the little green Issa dress below is knitted with no sleeves, and perfect when the weather is in between seasons.

Its warm but not too much. So you can wear it during the day as is and in the evening when the temperature drops you can add a duster coat, a little shawl or cardigan and you are good to go!

Also dress like this are easy to dress up or down. For daytime, you can easily pair it with some loafers, converse or sandals and in the evening you can dress it up by pairing it with some heeled sandals or stilettos and you are ready for an elegant evening out. Same goes for the other dresses linked below.

Pack dresses that easy to dress up or down and easy to mix up with other wardrobe items.

Pack Your Shoppers And Large Totes

As you know London weather can be up or down so when considering what to pack for London, a large tote or shopper should be at the top of your list.

Let’s face it, you will want to throw your umbrella in there, beauty items and when it gets warm you will also want to throw in your trench or mac coat so that you don’t end up holding your trench coat while exploring London. Leaving your hands free to pick up a camera and snap the city away.

The Power Of Mac – Pack A Trench Or Two 

What Shoes To Pack For London

I love exploring cities on foot, I also provided a walking guide and one-day itinerary for London . If you are in London, I would highly recommend taking to the city on foot. Explore the beautiful sights around Southbank. To do this, when considering what to pack for a trip to London, I would highly recommend you add a couple of flat and comfortable shoes to wear when walking around London.

We have plenty of beautiful tours around the city from the alternative tours in East London to food tours in London’s Markets  all of which you will want to walk off afterwards so it highly recommended that you pack a good fitting and comfy shoe to fully make the most of the city.

Pack Duster Coats For Summer Trips To London

During the summer months or from May to September, you may want to consider packing a duster coat for your trip to London. It’s during this time that the weather is warm enough not to need a coat but the perfect time to make use of light cover-up, certainly needed for evenings when the weather is slightly colder.

Duster coats come in all shades and colours and are super easy to pair up with outfits. I have a couple of colours from dusty pink to deep and rich reds and blues. It also helps that they are also not expensive and can be easily accessorised with an outfit.

What To Pack By Month

What to pack for london in march / april / june, what to pack for london in july / august / september, packing list for london in july / august / september.

• A mix of summer dresses
• Mix and match tops and summer shirts
• Mac/Trench coat
• Duster Coat
• Evening shift dresses for evening dinners or a trip to the theatre.

My name is Bianca and welcome to my local guide of London's Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea. Everything you need to know about exploring London in addition to the coolest hangouts and Instagrammable spots.

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19 comments.

Thanks for these tips and tricks! London is a funny beast. I always imagine myself to look stylish travelling into London from Cambridge, but then at the last minute I always opt for comfy hehe. Great post on what to pack for a London trip. Debs @ https://tiger-mint.com

Yes, London can be funny sometimes so I can totally understand how it can be hard deciding what to pack for a long weekend in London, let along what to pack for a London vacation. I am glad you liked the post.

Heading to London next summer. Its not even Christmas and I am already looking at what to pack for London in the Summer. That pink duster coat looks like one I would grab any moment. I’m all for very colorful clothes for summer and pretty comfortable ones too because you wouldn’t want to step out fully dressed only to stop halfway to your destination and start wondering why you wore that in the first place. Happens to me a lot, this really helps on what clothes to pack for London in July. Great post.

I guess it helps to prepare for your trip earlier. I certainly hope you are now the wiser on what to pack for London in the summer. 😀

Heading to London in December and was wondering if you think many of the tips in your post are still valid for the weather in London at that time?

Hi Trudy, well some of it but not all. You need a good pair of walking shoes thats for sure. Its a lot colder in December so you definitely need a good jacket. I will be posting more tips on what to wear in the London winter soon. Stay tuned.

I am visiting London in April and have been struggling what to park for a London trip. So glad I came across your blog as I wasn’t sure what I need to pack for London Spring or Summer. Just amazing. Thank you so much.

You are welcome. Hope you manage to figure out what to pack for London spring. Have an amazing time in London

I am definitely one of those people who think that London is very grey and you would always have to dress warm. At least now I now I have options. I have a couple of trips to London this Spring and have been wondering what to wear in London in April May. Definitely will be coming back to these posts as I am also traveling on business just before summer so will be back for tips on what to wear in London in early May and June. Thanks for the tips.

Always glad to help. Yes, it pays to be prepared on what to pack for London in the summer or spring. Glad to help as sometimes it can be difficult to figure out what to wear in London in May and June, let alone figuring out what shoes to wear in London in May. Glad you found the post helpful.

This is so cool. Amazing recommendations too. I am going to be in London in March and already starting to look at what to pack for London in March. I have always thought that Spring is really the best time to visit London. This is my third or fourth trip to London and I am super excited as I read your post on how to pack for London and what clothes I should pack for a vacation in London. I am loving your style and your blog. A little envious of your travels. Totally gushing at your stunning photography. Just beautiful!

Thats a really lovely comment Ruth. I am so glad you found the post useful. It can be just as difficult trying to decide what to wear when you live in London so I am glad you found the tips on what to pack for London Spring very useful. That is exactly what I was hoping for. I hope you have an amazing visit to London.

Totally agree about the flat and comfortable shoes to wear when walking around London.

So much to see and do, definitely want to look stylish but best not to be constricted by your outfit!

Of course, a camera would always be handy for a trip to London, but I love how you go into different wardrobe options and everything one should bring to London. Also, would just like to say that the articles on your blog are spectacular! Whether you are looking for what to pack for London in a carry on, what to pack for a long weekend in London, every useful for anyone considering what to pack when visiting London. Thanks!

This is such a great guide on what to wear in London summer. I was in London last year and I am keen to come back to London in July so this guide will come in handy when figuring out what to pack for London in July. Thanks for creating such a detailed and useful post.

Lina I am glad you found that useful. Have a great time in London. July is a really great time to visit.

I love your checklist for traveling to London. I have a summer trip and was struggling with picking what to pack for London in June but with your post and tips I now have an idea what to pack for 2 weeks in the UK now. Thank you so much.

I am glad that was useful. The weather in London in June is usually good so its a great time to visit London.

I am visiting London in April and have been looking for tips on what to pack for Spring. You have certainly put my mind at ease as well as give me ideas on what to pack for London. Thank you so much!

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The best and worst time to visit London: Choosing the optimal time for your visit

Are you planning a trip to London but wondering when you should visit? In this guide we go through, the best and worst time to visit London in detail, to help you decide when to visit. We will also go through a month by month account, as well as looking at factors like weather, crowds, and costs.

Worst time to visit London for Crowds

Worst time to visit london for prices, worst time to visit london for weather, worst time to visit london during school holidays, is january the best or worst time to visit london, is february the best or worst time to visit london, is march the best or worst time to visit london, is april the best or worst time to visit london, is may the best or worst time to visit london, is june the best or worst time to visit london, is july the best or worst time to visit london, is august the best or worst time to visit london, is september the best or worst time to visit london, is october the best or worst time to visit london, is november the best or worst time to visit london, is december the best or worst time to visit london, conclusion: the best and worst time to visit london.

If you want to avoid the crowds of tourists the worst time to visit London is June, July and August. August especially is a busy month as this coincides with school holidays.

The worst time to visit London when it comes to things like accommodation costs are usually the peak tourist months of June, July, and August. Due to the increase in people accommodation sells quite quickly, so you should expect to pay more at this time of year.

As a whole London is a pretty expensive city so any savings you can make by visiting in the quieter months like April, May, September or October, are a plus.

London is known for its unpredictable and often rainy weather. That being said there are better times of the year to visit when it comes to weather.

In our opinion the worst time to visit London when it comes to weather is January and February. The days are incredibly short, as it gets dark around 4pm. It tends to rain a lot and temperatures average between 4 and 9 degrees Celsius. It can sometimes snow in London during these months although it is rare.

Due to the adverse weather in winter especially some tourist attractions may close. So this is something to keep in mind.

If you aren’t a fan of the heat July and August can be the worst time to visit London. It’s not unheard of for temperatures to hit over 30 degrees Celsius. London isn’t always equipped for this heat, and not everything is air conditioned. Some tube lines for example get incredibly warm and it can become unbearable.

School holidays can be a difficult time to visit London as it does get incredibly busy, with kids and parents trying to make the most of their time together. August is when the summer holidays usually take place and this is by far the busiest time to visit.

There are often half term breaks in February, May, and October, although exact dates vary year by year.

January is probably the quietest time to visit London as a tourist. It’s one of the colder and rainier months with temperatures averaging between 4 and 9 degrees Celsius.

January is also one of the darker months in London. The sun tends to rise just before 8am, and sets at around 4.30pm depending on which part of the month you are in. Earlier sunsets also mean that some attractions may close early in comparison to the summer months.

On the plus side, tourist numbers are down, which also means prices for accommodation are better now than any other time of the year.

Overall January is the best time to visit London if you want a quiet visit, where you are planning to spend a lot of time indoors at museums for example.

However January is the worst time to visit London if you want to explore the outdoors, visit the parks, and just generally stay warm and dry.

February is another quiet month in London when it comes to tourism. The weather can still be incredibly dreary with a good chance of rain. Temperatures are similar to January with a low of 4 and a high of 9 degrees Celsius.

The days are starting to get a little brighter but only just, in comparison to January. Sunrise is around 7.30am and sunset is closer to 5pm in the evening.

Accommodation is cheaper, but you also have the added issues of attractions closing due to adverse weather.

February coincides with Valentine’s Day so if you are around on the 14th make sure you checkout some of the romantic events in the city and book restaurants in advance.

Overall February is the best time to visit London if you are looking for a romantic break, and want to enjoy the pubs and restaurants of the city.

However February is the worst time to visit London if you are hoping to get outdoors and enjoy the parks in the city.

March is when the first signs of Spring start to appear in London. The weather can still be a little cold, with temperatures averaging between 6 and 12 degrees Celsius.

Days are much brighter and the clocks go forward in the UK towards the end of March.

Easter can sometimes fall in March depending on the year, so keep this in mind if you are planning on visiting at this time.

March is the best time to visit London if you want better weather, but still want to visit in the off season.

March is the worst time to visit London again if you are planning on spending long days travelling around the city or sitting in parks.

April is really when London starts to break free from the shackles of winter. The days are starting to get longer with sunrise at around 6.30am and sunset at about 7.30pm.

The weather really warms up too with temperatures averaging between 7 and 15 degrees Celsius.

Tourist numbers are rising but still are not at the peak, so accommodation costs are still lowish, and the crowds aren’t as heavy as in other months. There is a good chance Easter may fall in April, which of course does mean more tourists over this period though.

One of the nice things about April is that the city comes into bloom with flowers brightening up the streets and parks.

April is the best time to visit London if you want the visit London before tourist season kicks in properly.

However April is the worst time to visit London if you want clear blue skies and warm days. The weather is pretty unpredictable and April showers are a real thing!

May is one of the more pleasant times of year to visit London particularly when it comes to the weather. Days are brighter for longer, and temperatures average somewhere between 10 and 18 degrees Celsius.

It’s perfect weather for walking around places like Hyde Park, or visiting some of the markets in the city. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show happens in May which is a must for nature lovers, and as a whole the city feels brighter and prettier.

With the warmer weather comes an increase in tourists so make sure you book accommodation well in advance to get the best prices. There are also 2 Bank Holidays (Public Holidays) in London in May so it may get busy around these times.

May is the best time to visit London if you are looking to spend time outdoors, and want to see the city come alive.

However it is the worst time to visit London if you are looking for a cheap stay, and minimal tourists.

June is when London really starts to warm up. Temperatures range from 13 to 21 degrees Celsius although it can often be much warmer.

June is peak tourist season in London, so this is something you need to keep in mind when visiting. Hotel prices go up, crowds increase, which in turn means longer queues.

Pride events usually take place in London in June, and you will see a shift in atmosphere over the city. The days are longer and people are much more relaxed. Alfresco dining and picnics in the park are popular at this time of year too.

Overall this is the best time to visit London if you are hoping for decent weather, right before tourist season hits its peak.

However June is the worst time to visit London if you want cheap accommodation.

July is one of the warmest months in London which is great if you are trying to avoid the rain and misery of winter. Temperatures start to heat up and average at around 25 degrees Celsius, although there are days when it can exceed this.

The heat in the city can sometimes be problematic particularly if you are on the Tube, and it can often feel warm and sweaty.

There are several festivals in the city in July such as Pride, and the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival. Sport lovers will also be pleased to know Wimbledon is held in July, and the whole city goes tennis crazy.

July is a very busy month in London so expect an increase in accommodation costs, and more crowds.

Overall July is a good time to visit London if you want to take advantage of the warm weather. There is still a good chance of rain (it is London after all) but at least it isn’t freezing.

July is the worst time to visit London if you want cheaper accommodation and less crowds. You need to book tours and restaurants in advance to avoid missing out.

August again is one of the warmest months in London, so it’s great if you want to make the most of long hot days. Temperatures range from 13-25 degrees Celsius, but it is not unusual for a few days of 30 degrees plus.

August is also when the school holidays fall in the UK and most of Europe. This means that tourist numbers are incredibly high. It’s also probably one of the most expensive months when it comes to looking for accommodation in London.

There are tons of quirky festivals that fall in August. One of the biggest though is of course the Notting Hill Carnival . But you also have things like the BBC Proms, and Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre with a number of shows. London is famous for its festivals and August is one of the best months to experience them.

August is the best time to visit London if you are travelling with kids, or you want to experience the city at its liveliest. It’s also great for those wanting to attend one of the festivals in the city.

However it is the worst time to visit London if you aren’t travelling with kids, as the crowds are huge. Expect to wait in line for tourist attractions and restaurants.

September is when London gradually starts to calm down after the peak summer months. Kids start to return to school, and the hot summer days slowly turn cooler.

There is still a lot happening in London in September as people try to make the most of the last few weeks of summer. The first half of September is still incredibly busy, but tourist numbers slowly dwindle towards the end of the month.

The temperatures in London in September hits an average peak of 20 degrees Celsius. That being said you do get some random hot days in September almost like a final goodbye to summer.

September is the best time to visit London if you still want to experience the city at its peak but with less tourists. It’s also a good time of year to visit the parks and gardens, and have some final moments of alfresco dining.

It is however the worst time to visit London if you want super hot days, and great deals on accommodation.

October is when you really start to notice the cooler weather in London. The leaves start turning orange, and it’s a nice time of year for autumnal walks. If you dress appropriately it can be a lovely time of year to visit.

October sees average temperatures of 10 to 16 degrees Celsius. There are plenty of Halloween style activities across the city, as people start getting cosy for the winter months.

Rain is more likely in October than the summer months, so again this is something to keep in mind when packing for your trip. On the plus side tourist numbers start to drop in comparison to the summer months.

Overall October is a good time to visit London if you are ok with unpredictable weather, and slightly darker evenings. Accommodation is also cheaper.

However it is the worst time to visit London if you are expecting sunshine all the time.

November sees the nights in London start to get darker. The clocks usually change at the end of October which means earlier sunsets for November. This does mean shorter days when it comes to exploring.

Temperatures start to drop and average between 7 and 12 degrees Celsius. It can also be an incredibly rainy month.

Tourist numbers drop at this time of year too, which means less queues and better deals on hotel rooms.

The highlight in November is Bonfire Night where you will be treated to a city fireworks display in celebration. Towards the end of the month Christmas displays start to come out, and the Christmas markets open.

November is the best time to visit London if you want to celebrate bonfire night, or get in on the Christmas action early.

However it is the worst time to visit London if you are wanting long bright days and sunshine.

December is pretty dreary in London when it comes to weather. That being said though the city transforms into a bit of a magical Christmas wonderland. There are pop up ice rinks, and several different Christmas Markets dotted around the city.

Temperatures range between 5 and 9 degrees Celsius, so you do need to wrap up warm. It’s also important to acknowledge that some attractions may be closed over in December due to adverse weather.

December is the best time to visit London if you want to do Christmas shopping or just enjoy the festivities in the city.

However it is the worst time of year to visit London if you are expecting long days and sunshine.

Hopefully you have found this article useful when planning your trip to London. Just to give you a final recap in our opinion and experience these are the best and worst times to visit London.

Overall the best time to visit London is May or the middle of September onwards. You still get some pretty decent weather, but there are less tourists then in the summer months. This also means there is a chance of securing a good deal when it comes to accommodation.

The worst time to visit London is in July and August. These are the busiest months in the city, which means that accommodation costs are high, and you will find yourself lining up for things like attractions and restaurants.

The months of January and February in our opinion is also the worst time to visit London. The weather is grim, the days are short, and you should expect a lot of rain.

But on the plus side, you will always find something to do in London no matter what time of year it is. In fact we have some helpful itineraries that you can click below:

One week in London

5 days in London

Instagrammable spots in London

Happy Travels!

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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London Packing List: What to Pack for London and the UK at any time of year

Last updated: October 19, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 29 Comments

We’ve spent a great deal of time travelling throughout the UK, plus we’ve taken many trips to London, a city we love to visit. I even lived in London for a number of years.

There’s so much to see and do in London that we find ourselves returning time and again for new adventures – everything from seeking out Harry Potter sites to hitting the Winston Churchill trail .

Based on our experiences, we wanted to put together a guide to what to pack for London, to help you when planning what to bring.

This London packing list will also work for visiting other cities and parts of the UK and is designed for visiting London and the UK any time of year, with some items being more required in winter or summer, and noted as such.

The climate does not vary too greatly across the country, although it is usually a little cooler as you get further north, especially up into northern Scotland.

The key thing with travelling in the UK is to be prepared for anything. The weather in the UK is famous for being fickle, and weather forecasts are notoriously unreliable.

So even in summer you can expect cold, grey days, whilst winter can provide unexpected sunshine and even a little warmth!

Now we’re going to go through our packing list in some detail, after which you’ll find a checklist so you don’t forget anything!

London Packing List

1. clothing.

Generally, for cities in the UK you will find that folks will tend to be fairly well dressed, so you will likely want to pack your nicer looking clothes – although you don’t need to be super dressy for most occasions.

Just bear in mind that if your travel plans include fine dining, nice bars or trips to shows like the opera or the west end then you might want to bring some smarter clothes.

I normally pack a button-up shirt and a light cotton jacket whilst Jess will pack a smart dress.

Clothes for London in Winter

When we travel to London in winter, we usually wear jeans or pants and Jess will wear layers with a warm sweater  like this on top ,  while I will usually have a shirt and a fleece .

We will also both wear a warm winter coat . A warm scarf and good gloves are also essential winter items for London!

In terms of gloves, there are a number of options on the market. These are a good pair specifically designed for photography, with a warm merino wool lining and magnetic finger caps, and are the pair that I own.

However, you’ll find plenty of gloves to choose from if you don’t need a photography specific pair. Our main suggestion is to get a pair with touchscreen capability so you don’t need to take them off to use your phone when navigating or looking up information.

For scarves, we love our cashmere scarves as they are really warm and look great, you can get them for women here and for men here . We have a guide to travel scarves here if you need some more inspiration!

If you suffer from the cold, you will also likely want a warm hat .

Clothes for London in Summer

For visiting London in summer, Jess will usually bring along a pair of pants, capris, and have a light dress with a shoulder wrap to wear depending on the weather.

I usually wear jeans, although on the odd rare hot day I can find that jeans become uncomfortably hot to walk in sometimes, so I will also pack light pants or shorts. For bright days (they do happen, we promise!), you’ll also likely want a pair of sunglasses .

The key thing for either time of year is to bring a series of clothing you can layer so you can adjust to the climate accordingly.

As mentioned at the beginning of the post, if you are doing anything more formal such as a nice afternoon tea at a nice hotel, you should definitely check the dress code in advance so you are prepared.

You are unlikely to need outdoor gear such as hiking pants or boots for your London trip, although if you are heading out to the countryside for a little while, (perhaps following one of our UK itineraries ), then a good pair of hiking pants will likely be a good addition to your UK packing list.

A decent pair of shoes can make or break a holiday. You’re going to be doing a fair bit of walking as you explore the UK and her cities, and the last thing you want is sore feet or blisters.

Recently, we’ve been loving travelling in our Allbirds shoes (see our detailed Allbirds review here ). For cool weather, we like the Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles , and for warmer weather the Allbirds Tree Runners . The Tree Runners are the most comfortable travel shoes I’ve ever worn, even in very hot weather exploring hot European cities in summer.

Of course, sometimes you want something a little bit smarter. In that case, I have a pair of Timberland shoes that I love.

They are dressy enough for a night out or a nice meal, but also comfortable enough for walking in all day. They’re also 100% waterproof, which can be a real benefit, as rain showers can happen at any time in the UK!

For slightly more formal situations, Jess loves her versatile black Rockport shoes. Whatever shoes Jess wears though, she finds she suffers from arch pain, probably because of high arches. After a lot of research, we settled on these cool insoles , which have solved that problem.

For more shoe tips, check out our guide to the best travel shoes for men and the best travel shoes for women for tips on picking a great pair to travel in.

3. Toiletries / Make up

Naturally you’re going to want to bring your toiletries with you on your trip to London!

You don’t need much different for London and the UK than anywhere else, so just remember your essentials – toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, moisturizer, travel razor and any make-up or sanitary products that you might need.

Of course, all these things are easily available to buy in the UK as well, although as brands might differ slightly, if there is a product you love from home it is best to bring it with you to be sure. If you are on any medication, you should definitely bring this as well.

We’d also advise sunscreen for travel in the summer months, and a good Chapstick for travel in winter as the cold winter air can very quickly dry out your lips which isn’t fun.

4. Electronic Gear

The UK uses a 220v three pin system, so if you’re travelling from nearly anywhere else in the world you are going to need a travel adapter. We normally use an adapter like this  and then pair it with an extension setup like this , which gives us all the plugs and USB ports we need to charge our all devices.

Note that if you are travelling to England from the USA, which uses a 110v system, not all your equipment will work.

Most laptops, phones and cameras will be fine, but in our experience, many hair dryers, curling irons, and hair straighteners don’t support dual voltages. You can check on the plug or in the manual to find out.

Jess has a dual voltage hair dryer and a dual voltage hair straightener  for just this reason.

See more on travel adapters and how to choose one for your trip in our guide to the best travel adapters .

You will also of course want your smartphone. If you have an unlocked phone, the cheapest way to get online will be to pick up a SIM card on arrival, or if you want to be fully prepared you can order one in advance . SIM cards are easy to come by in the UK and data is cost effective.

See our advice on getting online when you travel for tips on the best options.

If you’re thinking of a new smartphone for your trip, check our guide to the best cameras for travel , which has a section on smartphones that are good for travel and taking photos.

We would also recommend you travel with an external powerpack to keep everything charged, and a set of decent noise cancelling headphones can be a life saver if you want to watch a movie or listen to a bit of music.

If you like to read, you may also want to travel with a table or e-reader like a Kindle . For most trips you probably won’t need a laptop, but of course if you find it easier to travel with a laptop or tablet then bring one by all means!

5. Photography Gear

London is a very photogenic city (see my guide to the best photography locations here for some ideas), so you’re definitely going to want to bring some kind of photography gear with you on your trip. Even if that’s just a smartphone!

Our photography setup is likely overkill for most, but if you want to get the best photos, then we advise investing in a dedicated camera and ideally a tripod. See our guide to why you need a tripod for suggestions on the best travel tripods.

We also travel with a selfie stick to get nice photos of the two of us together if we don’t want have time or space to set up the tripod.

Don’t forget when travelling with your camera to bring a few accessories. We’d advise spare batteries, spare memory cards, a UV filter for the lens, and a decent bag or case to keep it all safe. If you don’t get a dedicated camera bag, a camera insert  that goes inside your daypack or carry-on is a wise investment.

We also travel with a number of large Ziploc bags which can be really handy to put electronics and wet clothes in should the weather turn bad.

6. Luggage & Backpacks

Picking the right luggage for you is a big decision. The right bag should last you for many years of travel, and suit your particular style – be that carry-on only or checked luggage.

We travel with a fair amount of gear, so we invariably have one checked bag each, and then one piece of hand luggage which has our high value items in. One tip I learnt from my mum’s years of travel wisdom is to split our belongings across our two checked bags – that way if one of them doesn’t make it, we still both have clothes!

For my camera and electronic gear, I currently use a Vanguard Alta Sky 49 , which works well as both a carry-on and a day pack. Prior to that, I used an Osprey day pack with a camera insert, which was also super comfortable.

Jess loves her Eagle Creek bags , and has both a carry-on sized backpack and a larger wheeled backpack that we check-in. For a long time my main checked bag was an Osprey Sojourn 60 . This travelled with me from 2013 until 2021 through multiple countries and countless baggage handlers, and never let me down.

Currently though, we travel with two main checked bags. We have a Level8 trunk bag , and a Delsey Hardside bag . We picked luggage with four spinner wheels as it’s honestly so much easier to move around, and both these bags have survived the rigours of travel very well, including a five week African safari, which is tough on any bag!

If you’re in the market for a new bag, we have no hesitation recommending Eagle Creek , Osprey , Level8 , Delsey and Vanguard as great choices.

7. Reusable Water Bottle

We highly recommend bringing a reusable bottle for water with you so you can fill it in sinks and water fountains and not need to pay for drinks or purchase bottled water. Tap water across the UK is safe to drink, so there’s no need to spend money on water.

If you need to get a water bottle for your trip, we personally like the Klean Kanteen bottles like these .

We have a few different sizes and find the anti-leak lids and easy washability make them perfect for travel. You’ll be saving money and creating less plastic waste, which is always a good thing!

8. Miscellaneous

Obviously, there are a few items you need to bring with you when travelling to the UK, such as your passport. Depending on where you are coming from, you might also need proof of onward travel, a visa, and proof of funds for your time in the UK.

Check the UK government website here to get an idea of what documentation you might need.

We’d also advise having a note of your hotel address available in non-electronic format, as you may need this during immigration proceedings.

Beyond the documentation requirements, don’t forget all the cables for your electronic devices. You are unlikely to need a towel for travel in London and the UK unless you are staying in particularly budget accommodation like backpacker hostels or some of the more budget hotel options that charge for add-ons like towels.

We would recommend you bring a  travel umbrella  or a travel poncho – these can be very useful in London and the UK as rain can happen at pretty much any time! You can also buy these at many shops in London although the quality might not stand the test of time.

If you would like to keep track of your adventures, we also recommend bringing along a travel journal. We always journal our travels so we can remember what we have seen and done. See our guide to the best travel journals for some ideas.

For London, we can also recommend the Streetwise Map , which is handy for helping you get around. We also recommend a physical guidebook, either the latest Rick Steves London guide , or the Lonely Planet London guide .

London Packing Checklist

Here’s a full list for you to use as a reminder for your trip to London. You can also download this London packing list in PDF form to print off here .

• Shirts / t-shirts
• Sweater / fleece for layering
• Jeans / Pants
• Underwear / socks
• Shoes (bring a pair that is versatile so you can travel with just one or at most two pairs)
• Swimwear (if needed, such as hotel has pool for instance)
• More formal wear (if needed, such as planned fine dining or theatre experience)
• Warm winter Coat
• Additional Sweaters/ Fleece
• Short sleeve t-shirts / tank tops
• Spring/Summer skirts/dresses
• Capris / Shorts
• Light jacket / sweater
• Sunglasses / hat
• Reusable water bottle
• Toothpaste / toothbrush
• Deodorant/Fragrance
• Moisturiser
• Medications
• Hygiene Products
• Other __________________
• Tripod / selfie-stick
•  Memory cards
• Spare batteries
• Camera accessories
• Portable power pack
• Travel adaptor
• Extension lead
• Laptop / tablet / e-reader
• Checked bag
• Carry-on bag
• Visa / proof of onward travel etc (if required)
• Travel towel (backpackers only)
• Jewelry / watch
• Travel journal / reading materials
• Cards / games
• Travel umbrella or poncho
• Other ___________________

Further Reading for your Visit to London and the UK

We have written many guides that will help you plan and prepare for your trip to London, plus we have some other go-to resources we think you will find useful.

• To help you plan your time in London effectively, check out our itineraries for 1 Day in London , 2 Days in London , 3 Days in London and 6 Days in London
• If you’re flying into London, see our post on advice on getting to London from the airport,  which includes detailed information for all six of London’s airports
• Getting around can be a bit daunting on your first visit to London. See our guide to public transport options in London , as well as our overview of how to buy and use an Oyster card to help get prepared
• We have detailed guides to visiting the Tower of London and the London Eye which includes information on planning your visit and how to save money on these popular attractions
• If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’re going to want to take a look at our guide to the best Harry Potter locations in London
• We have a complete guide to where to stay in London , with over 60 recommendations across all the main areas in London we recommend.
• Fans of Winston Churchill will want to see our detailed guide to seeing all London’s Winston Churchill sights
• Military history buffs will want to check out our guide to   London’s Best Military Museums and Memorials
• London has four UNESCO world heritage sites, we have a guide to visiting all of them here
• If you want to get the best photos during your time in London, see my guide to the best Photography Locations in London
• We have a full guide to some of the best walking tours in London , which is also worth reviewing if you are interested in a walking tour while you are in the city.
• Many of London’s attractions are quite expensive, so if you plan on doing a lot of sight-seeing, you can save money with a London Pass . See our full review of the London Pass here to see if it will save you money on your trip
• If your visit to London is part of a wider trip to the UK, check out our detailed 1 week and 2 week UK itinerary posts for inspiration
• For accommodation, we recommend Booking.com. See all their London listings here
• The Eyewitness Travel Guide to London , which has all sorts of information within, including more itineraries and ideas for your trip
• Rick Steve’s London  guide, the #1 bestseller on Amazon for UK travel guides, and always an excellent source of relevant information

And that’s it for our detailed packing guide for London, which hopefully covers everything you need to know for what to pack for London and the UK in general!

As always, we’re happy to take your questions and feedback – just leave us a comment below, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can. Safe travels!

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There are 29 comments on this post

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Prashuk says

12th September 2023 at 7:28 am

Your London packing list is incredibly helpful for travelers! Packing for varying UK weather can be a challenge, and your guide covers all the essentials. Thanks for making trip planning easier

Laurence Norah says

12th September 2023 at 9:29 am

It’s my pleasure Prashuk, have a safe trip to the UK and let me know if you have any questions!

23rd April 2022 at 3:09 pm

Thank you for your blog! We leave next week for 3 week driving tour in UK, & then 1 week in London (car-less) before returning to US. We are bringing iPad & iPhone, Roku streaming stick for evening Prime Video/Netflix/YouTubeTV in the airbnbs, & wired adapter(lightning to hdmi) to connect to bigger screens when they are available. What should we buy/bring to adapt those items for UK use? Thanks!

23rd April 2022 at 3:17 pm

So all you should need is some kind of adaptor to convert a US plug socket to a UK plug socket, also known as a travel adaptor. I have a guide to travel adaptors here , but most people opt for something simple like this .

I say should because in my experience most lower power electronics like iPads, iPhones and laptops are already capable of handling the voltage difference. As you probably know, the UK uses 220-240v power, whilst the US uses 110-120v. If you look on the plug or adaptor for the device, it should tell you what the input voltage if accepts is. If it’s in the range of 100v – 250v, or therabouts, it should be fine. However, if it’s fixed around 110 – 120v, it will not work and would in fact be dangerous to try plugging it in to a higher voltage output.

Other than the power adaptor so you can charge your devices, the rest should work fine. HDMI and USB ports are the same around the world, so that should all just work as expected.

Let me know if this makes sense or if I can help any more, and have a great trip to the UK!

Eddie Moricle says

21st April 2022 at 3:38 pm

Thanks for the Info. We are headed to London next month for 8 days!

21st April 2022 at 3:43 pm

My pleasure Eddie, have a great trip!

su Hal says

29th November 2021 at 1:47 pm

hello is it ok to bring cooked from in a container from India ie chicken curry on a flight.

29th November 2021 at 11:23 pm

This might be possible, but it will depend on the quantity of the food and also whether it is very liquid, in which case it may be classified as a liquid which has to then meet the airline requirements. If in doubt, it’s best to reach out to the airline. In addition, if you plan to bring it into the UK you will need to check the regulations in the UK as to what you are allowed to bring in.

Have a great trip to London!

vertoe says

14th November 2021 at 12:22 pm

Great blog! Thanks for sharing informative content with beautiful pictures.

14th November 2021 at 12:26 pm

My pleasure!

Elyonda Mckenzie says

30th May 2021 at 1:47 am

Hi, I’m going to London the last week of September and first week of October, how heavy of a coat should I take. I’ll be in Paris the first week of October. Thanks

31st May 2021 at 8:27 pm

Hi Elyonda! Great question. I’d say a medium size coat. At that time of year you’re looking at temperatures probably between 12C (53F) and 20C (68F). So it shouldn’t be too cold, however rain is always a possibility. So I’d recommend a waterproof coat but it shouldn’t need to be too thick 🙂

Have a great trip!

Renee Cundy says

5th December 2019 at 5:24 am

I booked a visit to London for end of summer 2020, this site is very helpful & informative, so thank you for that. I am a huge fan of the band Queen & plan to seek out any & every place associated with them that I can find while I’m there. Would love it if you could add a link among your other places of interest that would include “A guide to all things Queen related”. I don’t want to miss a thing on my once in a lifetime trip to London.

5th December 2019 at 10:35 am

Thanks very much for your comment 🙂 I do like the band Queen, but I am definitely not an expert! However, if you search for Queen locations in London, a number of helpful results come up which should help in your search 🙂

Kathy Draper says

29th June 2019 at 8:24 pm

Excellent and clear information (especially about how to handle cell phone decisions while in Britain). Thanks much!

29th June 2019 at 8:29 pm

Thanks very much Kathy – have a great trip to the UK, and do let us know if you have any questions!

Betsy Kerr says

27th March 2019 at 3:27 pm

FB Messaged you: First-time overseas travelers going to Scotland and England (Edinburgh area and London) in late July-August. Saw USA Today article regarding attire that said, “First, unless the sun shines and the temperature rises into the 80s, it’s fairly rare to find an Englishman in shorts. However, schoolboys under age 13 may wear long shorts with knee-high socks all year-round, typically as part of a school uniform.” Fine for Englishmen but what about male tourists? Or female tourists for that matter? Do they wear shorts? Thanks! Betsy Kerr

27th March 2019 at 5:18 pm

You’re welcome to wear shorts whenever you like! I’m not sure that USA Today article is exactly representative of reality today 😉 If it’s a warm day, we wear shorts over here too. It’s just not warm as often as we’d like, and shorts aren’t something you would see as business attire, but certainly, if you’re on holiday shorts are perfectly acceptable attire!

27th March 2019 at 5:22 pm

Thank you! Don’t want my hubby to stand out like a sore thumb! 🙂

Pam Heathcote says

11th January 2019 at 10:40 am

Off to London for the first time since primary school ( now in my 60s). Have found your website very helpful, not only for packing advice but also for the photography tips. Many thanks Pam

11th January 2019 at 10:57 am

Our pleasure Pam. Do let us know if you have any questions, and have a fantastic trip!

Ryan Jones says

5th January 2019 at 5:58 am

Just wondering about the travel adapter and extension. Coming from the US to the UK will I need a power converter to bring the power down from 220v to 120v or will a travel adapter and power strip work?

5th January 2019 at 10:52 am

So it really depends on your electronics. In our experience, most smaller electronics like laptops, camera chargers and so on are rated for both 110v and 220v, so all you would need is the adapter and power strip. However, you definitely need to check each device – the voltage it accepts will be written on the charger part somewhere.

Higher power devices usually are not dual voltage, in our experience this includes things like hair dryers and straightening irons. There are travel versions of these devices available which support two voltages, but it’s not a standard.

Usually a power convertor isn’t necessary, and in our experience they tend to be fairly bulky, so best avoided if possible – it’s best to get a travel version of the device instead in our opinion if one exists.

Hope this helps!

Timothy Aull says

6th November 2018 at 5:19 pm

I was fortunate enough to live in London for three months as a study abroad student while I was in college. I am now headed back to London for my honeymoon. Just wanted to say that I have found your website a great resource for planning my wife’s first trip to London. Thank you for such a wonderful source for those who love to travel and explore new things.

7th November 2018 at 4:02 pm

Hi Timothy!

What a lovely comment, thank you so much for taking the time to stop by and let us know. It’s always wonderful to hear from readers that we are able to help them, and we hope you and your wife have a wonderful trip to London (we’re actually in London as I type this, investigating all the latest attractions and ensuring our content is all up to date!)

Barbara says

17th June 2018 at 1:24 am

Thank you very much for this list – I’d forgotten ziploc bags – great item to pack!

17th June 2018 at 11:52 pm

Thanks Barbara – they are very useful for all sorts of things 😀

7th June 2018 at 1:38 pm

Thanks for taking the time to create this blog . . . headed to London next month and you have provided some information and tips!

8th June 2018 at 10:29 am

Our pleasure Peter – have a great trip!

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Which airport is closest to Buckingham Palace?

Buckingham Palace is recognized worldwide as home to the royal family. The state rooms are open to the public for ten weeks during the summer and selected days during winter and spring. London City Airport (LCY) is the closest to the palace, 9.2 miles away. Heathrow Airport (LHR) is 15 miles, London Gatwick Airport (GBR) is 34 miles, London Luton Airport (GBR) is 34.3 miles, and London Stansted Airport (STN) is 39.5 miles from the palace.

How do I get to the city from London City Airport (LCY)?

There are various ways to get into the city from London City Airport (LCY). First, you can take a public bus which takes 50 minutes to the city and will cost £5 (about $6). A Taxi ride costs £41 ($50) and takes 15 minutes. A train ride costs £5 (about $6) and takes 21 minutes and lastly, a shuttle ride costs £58 (about $50) and will take you 21 minutes.

What services are there for business travelers in Heathrow?

Heathrow has bookable meeting rooms, such as its Regus Express business lounge, which can be rented by the hour. Along with their premium lounges, business travelers can also rent cell phones and pre-order foreign currency in advance, ensuring that the required currency will be available upon arrival. These services further enhance the convenience for business travelers.

Which London airport is closest to downtown?

London City Airport (LCY) is the closest in terms of physical proximity to the downtown area and can be reached via the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) and city buses. However, most of its flights are short hauls to mainland Europe. If your flight to London originated across the Atlantic, chances are that Heathrow Airport (LHR) is the best airport option for quick access to the city.

Which London airport offers good services for families traveling with children?

Both Heathrow Airport (LHR) and London Gatwick Airport (GBR) have excellent facilities for families and children. Heathrow’s Stay & Play is available in Terminals 2, 3, 4 and 5 and features slides, play spots, and separate areas for babies and young children. At Gatwick, there are Kids zones in both the North and South Terminals, both of which provide play areas and free TV for young travelers.

Can I store my luggage at Heathrow Airport (LHR)?

Layovers are frequent at Heathrow Airport (LHR). The airport has excellent luggage storage facilities managed by Excess Baggage Company, where storage duration determines charges. Baggage and luggage can be stored for a few hours or up to 90 days. 0-3 hours will cost you £7.50 and 3-24 hours will cost you £12.50.

Are there good restaurants in Heathrow?

Heathrow Airport (LHR) has an expansive restaurant selection, ranging from fine dining to quick bites. Additionally, you can even order your food in advance from participating restaurants via the LHR London Heathrow Airport app. Furthermore, many restaurants in Heathrow offer 15-minute menus, as they understand that every minute counts during your travels.

Which London airport is closest to central London?

Out of the 6 airports in London, London City is the nearest to the city center (8 miles). You'll travel 14 miles to reach the center of London if you land in London Heathrow Airport, 24 miles if you land in London Gatwick Airport, and 28 miles if you arrive in London Luton Airport.

On average, a flight to London costs $734. The cheapest price found on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks cost $126 and departed from Miami Airport.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights to London?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights to London.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket to London?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to London is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights to London?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to London with an airline and back with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight to London?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to London up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to London

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest London flight deals.
• Landing at any of the six international airports in London guarantees an excellent travel experience. These airports have passenger assistants to help travelers navigate through the airports and special assistance programs for those who require extra help. Programs such as the Sunflower Lanyard at London Luton Airport (GBR) and London Southend Airport (SEN), as well as the Blue Badge scheme at Heathrow Airport (LHR), assist airport employees in identifying travelers who may need additional assistance.
• Inter-terminal movements are often unavoidable at Heathrow Airport (LHR). If you land at the airport, you will need to obtain a free inter-terminal ticket from one of the machines at the station in order to use the airport shuttles. However, if you have a connecting flight at Heathrow, you won't need to use the shuttles. The airport provides frequent flight connections and buses to take you to the next terminal without leaving the passenger-only area.
• Flights to London can land you in any number of airports serving the greater London area . Six international airports service London and, in terms of number of passengers served, they rank as follows: Heathrow Airport (LHR), London Gatwick Airport (GBR), London Stansted Airport (STN), London Luton Airport (GBR), London City Airport (LCY) and London Southend Airport (SEN). Lucky travelers flying to London have a plethora of options.
• The most popular airport, Heathrow Airport (LHR) easily connects to the London Underground and can be reached via the Piccadilly Line. Travel time should be under an hour and a single-way fare will be upwards of £6 (around USD $8.00). Heathrow has three separate stations on the London Underground: one for terminals 2 and 3 and one each for terminals 4 and 5.
• Landing at London Gatwick Airport (GBR)? There are several popular ways to reach the city from the airport. Trains run to London Bridge and Victoria, and many locations around the city are reachable from London Blackfriars. As if that weren't enough, coaches and shuttle buses also offer services to numerous other locations across the city.
• When traveling with a lot of luggage and flying to Heathrow Airport (LHR), you can request porter services available at the airport. You can hail a porter in the baggage halls, and they will assist you with your luggage. Porters charge £30 for 1-8 bags and operate from 6 am to 9 pm.
• If you love animal therapy, you should consider landing at London Southend Airport (SEN). The airport has partnered with Essex Therapy Dogs to provide therapy dogs. These dogs roam around the airport's terminals seeking to ease the anxiety and stress travelers face.
• The No1 Lounge at Heathrow Terminal 3 is a serene refuge in one of the world's busiest airports, perfect for travelers on long layovers . It features snack machines, cozy seating, and complimentary buffet-style food options. The fully stocked bar offers a wide selection of premium beverages. The lounge provides various seating areas, including a mini cinema, a bistro with high tables for work and snacks, a lounge area with comfortable sofas, and private meeting spaces.
• Are you landing at Heathrow Airport (LHR)? If you would like a quiet place to meditate , take advantage of the multi-faith prayer rooms available. You can find the rooms at Terminal 2 Gate A21, Terminal 3 Gate 24, Terminal 4 Mezzanine Level, Terminal 4 Gate4, and Terminal 5 Gates A8, B34, and C52. The prayer rooms are open from 7 am to 7 pm.
• If duty-free shopping is one of the perks you enjoy while traveling, then Heathrow Airport (LHR) is definitely the airport to visit. Not only do they offer an extensive range of luxury stores and products, but you can also save time by pre-ordering purchases a day in advance, allowing you to skip the lines. Additionally, Heathrow Reward members earn points with every purchase, which can later be redeemed for miles and various other perks.

Prefer to fly non-stop to London?

Find which airlines fly direct to London, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

United States to London

ANA, AccesRail, Aegean Airlines, +121 more

ANA, AccesRail, +122 more

ANA, AccesRail, Aegean Airlines, +122 more

ANA, AccesRail, +123 more

ANA, AccesRail, Aegean Airlines, +123 more

ANA, AccesRail, +124 more

ANA, AccesRail, Aegean Airlines, +119 more

ANA, AccesRail, +120 more

ANA, AccesRail, Aegean Airlines, +125 more

ANA, AccesRail, +126 more

ANA, AccesRail, Aegean Airlines, +124 more

ANA, AccesRail, +125 more

Nonstop returns

London to United States

Top 5 airlines flying to london.

On my way home I had a layover. The flight from ATL to CLT was amended 5x while I was waiting. I could have driven home sooner. Overall from Dallas, Tx to Charlotte, NC I started my trip at 4:30pm, I didn’t get home until past midnight. I know things happen, but 5x to make me run back and forth in an airport from different terminals is excessive. I also upgraded to comfort + , I didn’t feel it was worth it. There was no benefit

On my way home I had a layover. The flight from ATL to CLT was amended 5x while I was waiting. I could have driven home sooner. Overall from Dallas, Tx to Charlotte, NC I started my trip at 4:30pm, I didn’t get home until past midnight. I know things happen, but 5x to make me run back and forth in an airport from different terminals is excessive.

They did a fine job. Can't wait to use Delta in the future.

There was a loud squeaky sound the whole time we were flying.

Had a broken tray in business class. Crew just shrugged it off.

Seat back monitors and outlets were dead and not working.

Everything was great except for the seat. The backrest would not stay in the upright position.

I usually have a positive experience with Delta. Complimentary upgrades are always nice!

Flight delayed about 2 hrs so it made it a VERY late night

The crew, food, and entertainment were all good. But my screen had some sort of bug where if I turned it off, it would turn back on after 2-5 minutes. At full brightness. It made it very hard to get any shut-eye on the overnight flight. Also, the older Boeing plane, while nicely cared for (and no doors fell off 😅👏) doesn't have the nice air quality of newer planes. So I felt a bit greasy by the time we landed in Sweden.

Cabin crew on our flight showed lack of any customer service gruff and acting annoyed if you asked anything and I mean anything Example a man on the seat over dropped his beer on my husbands blanket We asked if we could switch out blankets cabin crew Said. No we don’t have any extras OK well can you take the wet one Cabin crew looked disgusted and annoyed Took it no OK or yes just a growl

Quick flight. But cabin crew were very noisy and talking too much, especially when we were seated at the back of the plane trying to sleep through the night .

My ticket was for Premium Economy and all the seats were taken, I was placed in Economy class and I’m looking for a refund.

The delay was an issue. Other than that. Every thing good

Staff didn’t check cabin well for landing seemed more interested in chatting to each other. Food was poor and differed from pre order.

We were in the last group to be called to the flight - which was 30 minutes late taking off. While we were lucky enough to have been given bulkhead seats (due to a medical condition I’d told them about beforehand) the seats weren’t particularly comfortable. A crying baby for the whole trip made things worse, so the crew managed very well with coping. The final thing I’d say was that there wasn’t enough food served during the flight.

Very good. Glad we had Premium for the flight out.

From the start everything was perfectly fine. First meal was fantastic. Breakfast needs a lot of work and food was overcooked and not very nice for breakfast. Staff were fantastic friendly nice they came round and check we need anything else to eat or drink

From the start everything was perfectly fine. First meal was fantastic. Breakfast needs a lot of work and food was overcooked and not very nice for breakfast. Staff for a fantastic friendly nice we came round and check we need anything else to eat or drink

From the start everything was perfectly fine. First meeting was fantastic. Breakfast needs a lot of work and food was overcooked and not very nice for breakfast.

The return trip was a customer service disaster. American Airlines needs an overhaul of how they treat their customers.

Was flying in premium eco and there were around 5-6 movies I wanted to watch and none of those could I play for some reasons. Not just me we checked w the person sitting next to me. Few of the movies were only playable :( Also that was not great that we couldn't upgrade to business however tried to, many times before the flight :(

You cancelled my flight by email then made it very difficult to get in contact with you. Then put me in a flight with a long layover in Mexico returning to the wrong airport in uk. Mind blowing my stressful. I missed see my grand dad because of you.

This was not the BA business class it used to be. Mediocre food, attendants seemed stretched thin. All the little luxuries that used to make BA business fun were missing. Flight delayed and the explanation given was they forgot to pick up crew - I hope I misheard! Transfer in LHR “sticky” - we thought we had way too much time at 3hours but it was needed. Next time will try different route.

Always getting updates by email very easy to check in on line. There was plenty of checking in staff to get you all through. It was nice that the flight attendants took time to talk to you and were interested in your holiday.

Flight from Phoenix to London was very quiet. Excellent space available for comfort, couldn't fault

Food was very average. And top up drinks offer was absent. For a 11 hour long flight that should be the minimum. The crew didn't want to be there. I understand it was new year day but given they had signed up for it

It was my fault choosing the seat nearest the entrance but it was ok.

It was good, the staff was friendly and it was a typical flight to Europe.

My flight was a little marred by poorly fuctioning / loose headphone sockets meaning I had to move twice. The meals were good and the staff are always amazing, attentive and friendly. My bag was lost on my previos trip with BA for 15 days of my 18 day trip, however I experienced no such issues this time despite my fears. Overall ok but aircraft need better looking after.

I loved the ability to upgrade my seat which was worth it. The large seat and ability to recline made it comfortable to fall asleep. My only two complaints were entertainment (movie selections were old) and approx 30 mins before landing the crew started to collect the blankets despite the cabin air temperature remaining cold. Maybe wait for passengers to get off the plane before collecting the blankets.

Excellent! Although it stinks to pay extra for leg room and then have no screen option.

Very much dislike: Airline requires check-in at the Airport Airline does not work with TSA PreCheck

Overall a great experience. Only complaint was the movie selection was pretty limited, but that's pretty minor in the grand scheme of things and easy to overcome.

The crew was unfriendly front check-in. The filth in the plane was so disappointing. I could smell dirt and looked up and there was literally dirt that was blowing in through the air. Old food on the seat back tray in front of me so I didn’t use it. No toilet paper in the bathroom and scum/old dirt next to the seats.

No blanket pillow headphones, not even a water or snack makes for a very uncomfortable flight. There are too many extra fees that should be basic and standard included.

There was no communication about the check-in process, even the fact that Norse doesn’t do online check-in! And once we were at the Los Angeles airport (LAX), there was no signage or assistance about where to check in. I kept Googling for 3rd party information until I finally found on the airport website that we had to check in at Terminal 1 and be bussed back to Terminal B, the international terminal. How were we supposed to know that?! Otherwise, the flight itself was comfortable and the attendants were helpful and friendly. I just feel like we were lucky to have managed the check-in and boarding process on our own - why keep it a secret??

The flight was comfortable, smooth, hardly any bumps even though we encountered some jetstream. The onboard entertainment could be jazzed up a little, the TV shows were old ans not much variety. The movies we ok. The staff was pleasant. The Orlando ground crew was excellent, they were pleasantand friendly. My kids and I were seated separately but the Orlando crew was able to reassign us together. The ground crew at Gatwick, UK need some work on attitude, they were not so sociable. All in all wonderful flight to and from England. I will be definitely traveling with Norse again. Ps...Norse need to work on an app for both Android and iOS.

Crew at airport who completed boarding were incredibly and blatantly rude and unhelpful. 0/10 customer service. I was going to upgrade my seat to first class and upon asking, I was met with an awful attitude so I changed my mind.

Boarding was a disaster. 2 hours in line to get boarding passes and we had no luggage to check in. Coffee was $4 so is water. 11 and a half hour’s flight and food was not included. You could purchase the food but it was complete garbage, This is worse than spirit airline. Never again

In economy and food was ok, but with limited leg space (and I was in a 2 seat configuration) it was difficult to eat with a tiny seat tray. I spilt wine on my trousers. First time on British Air (I usually fly Turkish Air) and in a 777. Heathrow was pleasant but changing terminals awkward.

Starting with the flight Cairo to London the plain was so poor no entertainment at all uncomfortable seats although it’s 5 hours long,then an American airline plain took me from London to Miami it was a bad experience the crew most of flight time not available and they asked us to help our selves for any snacks if we need. From Miami to London actually was perfect flight with a huge plain and perfect crew but from London to Cairo was horrible plain with stiff fixed seats not movable no entertainment or wi fi very poor Menu which is unacceptable for a business class

I've done hundreds of flights in my life, and this flight was one of the best I've ever taken, From beginning to end, everything went smoothly, professionally, and with a smile and friendly attitude from all employees I interacted with. The food was delicious (and free), as were the drinks. There was just a genial and effective way in the way that British Airways organized the flight -that reminded of days in the 70's, 80's, and 90's, when flying was a fun, and exciting adventure. I enjoyed and had confidence in the abilities of the flight crew, I'll be flying British Airways several more times this summer. Thank you so much for the great experience! Cheryl Olso

Terrible! I missed my flight to my final destination and British airlines and American Airlines keep pointing fingers on each other’s. Nobody wants to take responsibility

Overall, terrific service, accommodations, and experience. Only reason comfort was rated lower was because it was difficult to keep a comfortable sleeping position for the overnight flight, but I also had an economy seat.

Very cramped seats in economy, difficult to get comfortable with your legs and feet and back. The seat width is ok but I’m average size. Food is HORRIBLE. Crew is friendly. Delays and very tight connections made it tough for navigating. We would have missed our connecting flight if it wasn’t delayed too. The terminal transit was slow and normally every 10 minutes before 8pm, after 8 pm is every 30 minutes!!!!! No free wine or drinks!! Below average attitude.

Leg room was better than expected. Lavatory’s were easy to access.crew was grea!

Horrible seat allocation. Boarding was slow. Food was average and so was entertainment. The TV terminal didn't work and so had to use remote.

Lost one checked bag.and wasted 30min waiting and filing missing baggage report. Very unsatisfied.

This was an American Airlines flight. The crew were very unhappy and quite grumpy. Abrupt to the point of being rude. The food was dreadful. Indeed the breakfast was in edible. I will avoid AA at all costs in the future.

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