London in the summer is your favorite rom-com. It’s pink skies and long walks in the park, and sidewalk cafes. After exhaling all those months of grey, there’s something undeniably magical about the city in the summertime. Pubs are packed with people spilling out onto the street, enjoying every bit of sunshine with their pints. Parks are green patchworks of picnics, cyclists, and reading under the sun.
Crafting the perfect summer day is an art form, and in London, there’s much to do, see, eat, and drink. A “Very London Summer” means long walks in the park, drinks in the garden, and festivals. And girls, summer is about to get started, so it’s time to get down to business. Keep on reading to craft the perfect recipe for your Very London Summer.
Parks & Picnics
London is a city of green spaces, and in the summer, the city and its parks go hand in hand. Each one has its character, offering a slice of peace in contrast to the city’s buzz. Whether it’s a spontaneous picnic, a long walk with coffee in hand, or simply a place to pause and read, London’s parks embody the magic of summer.
Hyde Park: Classic, vast, and historic — perfect for a leisurely day out
- You can rent a pedal boat on the Serpentine lake or take a stroll through Kensington Gardens, which are nearby.
Regent’s Park: Elegant with beautiful gardens and wide open spaces
- Tour the gardens and then walk along the canal towards Camden Town
Hampstead Heath: Natural and ethereal with incredible views over London
- Visit Kenwood House, a 17th-century estate in the park that’s free to visit
Outdoor Pubs and Gardens
Outdoor pubs and beer gardens in London are a summer ritual. As soon as the weather turns even slightly warm, the city is outside and ready to get drinking (not like that’s different than any other season in London). Whether you’re after something low-key or lively, a pint or glass of crisp white wine, here are some of my favorite pub gardens that make you keep saying, “just a bit longer.”
The Albion (Islington)
The Crown & Shuttle (Shoreditch)
Gordon’s Wine Bar (Embankment)
Kew Gardens
Explore stunning botanical gardens in full bloom at Kew Gardens. Just a short train ride from central London, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is in Richmond (southwest London) and easy to reach on the District line. Kew is lovely all year-round, but in the summer, Kew is in its full glory with blooms of every color of the rainbow. I especially love the Japanese Garden and Treetop Walkway.
Take a Canal walk
The canal walk from Camden Town to Regent’s Park is one of my favorite walks in all of London. It’s lovely during any season, but in the summer months, you’ll see the most bikers and fellow walkers along the way. Here’s the rundown:
Start at Camden Lock
- Camden Lock is bustling, full of street food, vintage shops, and energy.
Walk along the towpath along the canal
- The canal path curves gently past old brick buildings, murals, and converted warehouses.
Walk towards Regent’s Park
- You’ll walk past the edge of London Zoo
- The canal begins to feel greener, quieter, and more serene as you enter Primrose Hill and Regent’s Park territory.
Columbia Road Flower Market
Classic London stuff right here. Every Sunday morning, Columbia Road in East London bursts into life as flower sellers line both sides of the narrow Victorian street.
There are also independent shops selling home goods, art prints, and ceramics along the way. Finish at a local pub for post-market bevvy and people-watching.
See the Sunset at Primrose Hill
To capture the most stunning sunset views, head to the summit of Primrose Hill, where you’ll find panoramic views of the city. Perched just north of Regent’s Park, this is a favorite spot for weekend strolls, picnics, and people-watching.
Stylish, serene, and unmistakably London, Primrose Hill is a dream. At the base of the hill, the neighborhood of Primrose Hill feels like a postcard—tree-lined streets, pastel townhouses, and a village-like charm that contrasts with the city’s usual pace.
Rooftop Film Club
Rooftop Film Club is an open-air cinema, offering a fun way to enjoy both new releases and cult classics under the stars. This is the perfect activity if you’re looking for something other than going out to eat or to a pub.
Visit Neal’s Yard
Neal’s Yard is one of London’s most charming hidden corners—a burst of color and string lights tucked away in the heart of Covent Garden. Step through a narrow alley and you’re suddenly in a small courtyard that feels worlds away from the busy streets outside.
26 Grains for a healthy breakfast of Banana & Tahini Porridge or Fried Eggs in Chilli Butter
La Compagnie for a wine and cheese date night
Neal’s Yard Remedies for delicious and natural bath, body, and skincare products
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