Our guide to an epic summer in London

Whether you're soaking up rays on a rooftop, wandering through wildflower-filled parks, or raving at day festivals, the city becomes your ultimate playground. Here’s your go-to guide for making the most of London at summer.  

Soak Up the Sun at Rooftop Bars in London

Let’s be real, nothing screams “main character summer” like sipping a cocktail with skyline views. London in July is when the city comes alive. And the rooftop scene? Elite. 

Netil360 
This East London rooftop bar is all about the laid-back, indie vibes. Expect fairy lights, cold pints, and a crowd that probably has a film camera in their tote bag. The views stretch across the city, and the sunsets are Instagram-worthy every time.  

Jin Bo Law 
Feeling boujee? Head to Jin Bo Law in Aldgate. It’s giving glamorous. With jaw-dropping views of the Gherkin and classy cocktails that taste as good as they look, this one’s for when you want a rooftop that screams “I’ve got my life together.” 

 Florattica 
This spot is what your flower-powered aesthetic dreams are made of. Think: garden terrace meets mixology heaven. Their floral-themed drinks menu is as cute as it is creative. Perfect for a catch-up with your mates after uni or a romantic sunset moment. 

Joia 
Joia = joy, and it lives up to the name. Located on the 15th floor of the Art’otel in Battersea, this gem serves up mouthwatering tapas with a view of the iconic Battersea Power Station. Ideal for a slightly fancier evening. Plus, the food slaps. 

Summer Activities in London

Let’s mix it up a bit. London’s got plenty to offer beyond Aperol and rooftop pics (no shade - we love those too). 

Swim & Chill at the Lido 
Name a better feeling than a cold dip on a hot day. Whether you’re braving the chilly waters of Hampstead Heath ponds or heading to Brockwell or London Fields Lido, it’s refreshing, chaotic, and very much a London summer rite of passage.  

Hampstead Heath Wanders 
When the city gets too loud, head to Hampstead Heath. Pack snacks, a portable speaker, and head up to Parliament Hill for sweeping views (and some quality people-watching). 

Feeling Wholesome? Check out London Zoo 
Channel your inner zookeeper and wander around London Zoo. Bonus? If you’re a Harry Styles fan (who isn’t?), you’ll recognize it from the “As It Was” music video. Yes, you can literally walk in his footsteps. Scream.  

London Park Life 

Who says you need a beach when London’s parks are chef’s kiss? Whether you’re sunbathing, reading, or attempting a frisbee game that gets way too competitive, London parks are the place to be. 

Victoria Park – East London’s chillest hangout spot, surrounded by canals and cute cafés. Post-picnic trip to Broadway Market? Say less.  

Hyde Park – Royal vibes only. Perfect for sunbathing, people-watching, or renting a pedalo (one of the best London summer activities!) 

Hampstead Heath – Big nature energy. Tall trees, hidden paths, and swimming spots. The dream. 

Primrose Hill – Perfect for golden hour hangs and skyline selfies. Bring snacks, a blanket, and your best mates. This is the place to be for summertime in London. 

Kew Gardens – Less picnic, more nature walks (but make it aesthetic). Wander through greenhouses, see the treetop walk, and get that quiet reset we all need after a busy week at uni.  

Greenwich Park – Peak London summer vibes. Hike up for golden hour views over the city, snap a sun-soaked pic on the Prime Meridian line, then chill out on the grass for a picnic. Bonus: it’s one of the prettiest spots for a summer Insta dump. 

Wembley Park: Big Names, Big Vibes

Did someone say summer concert season? Wembley Park is delivering. This summer, the area’s packed with outdoor screenings, art trails, food pop-ups, and of course – massive gigs.  

Highlights on the line-up include: 

Lana Del Rey – Summertime sadness? Not this July. Lana’s bringing the cinematic vibes, smoky vocals, and cherry cola dreams to Wembley Park. Expect tears, twirls, and a crowd full of flower crowns. 

Dua Lipa - Get ready to dance the night away. Dua’s bringing the girl-pop energy, sparkly fits, and non-stop bangers to Wembley. From Levitating to Houdini, it’s giving main pop girl era and we’re 100% here for it. 

BLACKPINK will be taking over Wembley! Get ready to hit you with that ddu-du ddu-du on the biggest stage. Serving Pretty Savage energy, fierce fits, and K-pop magic all night long. 

Outdoor movie nights – Think cult classics under the stars. London summer activities don’t get better than this.  

Live DJ sets, dance classes, and food festivals – because summer in London should be extra. 

Wembley Park is the place to be when you want your day to effortlessly turn into a night out.

London Day Festivals You Can’t Miss 

Nothing beats summertime in London. If you love a festival but hate camping, London’s day fests are the answer. One wristband, one sun-soaked day, and you still get to sleep in your own bed. Ideal. 

British Summer Time (BST) Hyde Park 
London in July is going to be heating up with a line-up that is anything but nonsense—with Sabrina Carpenter, Gracie Abrams, and Olivia Rodrigo taking the stage. Get ready to sing your heart out and sip your Espresso. 

Wireless Festival – Finsbury Park 
Drake’s shutting down Wireless with three nights, three vibes. No skips, just hits. From “Started from the Bottom” to “Hotline Bling,” it’s certified lover chaos. 
If you’re reading this… you better have your ticket. 

All Points East – Victoria Park 
If your vibe is more indie/electronic, this is your festival. The crowd’s chill, the setting is beautiful, and the line-up never misses. It’s pure summer in London bliss. 

Main Character Energy, Activated 

Summer in London is chaotic, spontaneous, and a little bit magical. One second, you’re catching rays in a park, the next you’re raving in a warehouse or sipping frozen margs on a rooftop. It’s all about saying “yes” more, soaking up every second, and living your best life – city style. 

So, grab your sunnies, charge your phone, and let the group chat know: summer in London starts now.