Summer in London: what to do on a sunny day in London

It’s summer time in London and we have earned some sun. When it’s a sunny day in London, the city is transformed into the best, most sparkling version of itself. The crowds converge on London parks to soak up the sun and enjoy picnics. Ice creams fly off the shelves. The tube becomes a sweaty oven. And everyone you see will want to chat about the weather. So, what are the best things to do on sunny day in London? I’ll help you make the most of it. Here are my favourite things to do in London in summer.

Soak up the sun at a rooftop bar

Rooftop bars are one of the trademarks of a London summer. Hanging out in the open air overlooking the London skyline is a perfect way to spend a summer evening in London.

On the south bank, an incredible hidden rooftop garden houses the Roof Garden at Queen Elizabeth's Hall, one of the Southbank Centre's offical bars which is kitted out with red and white checked picnic blankets.

Peckham is one of the most iconic rooftop bar locations, as it is home to Frank's at the top of Peckham Levels as well as the Bussey Rooftop Bar across the street. These both have incredible views of London, plus loads to do besides drink. Bold Tendencies is an arts organisation housed at Peckham Levels and they often have exhibitions on display.

Pergola Paddington offers a vibrant rooftop bar plus loads of street food stalls. 

There are loads of great rooftop bars in London, some very posh indeed, but you're bound to find one that fits your vibe.

Swim outdoors in lidos and ponds

Outdoor swimming is one of those cinematic things to do in London in the summer--definitely main character energy. There are lots of places for swimming in London, but Hampstead Heath's ponds are probably the most dearly loved. Whether you choose the Highgate Men's Pond, the Kenwood Ladies' Pond, or the Mixed Pond, these natural swimming spots offer a serene and idyllic escape from the bustling city, surrounded by lush greenery, making it one of the best things to do in London on a hot day.

The London Fields Lido in Hackney is a popular choice, boasting a 50-meter heated outdoor pool surrounded by grassy areas for lounging and picnicking. Another notable option is the Tooting Bec Lido, one of the largest freshwater pools in the UK, offering a spacious and vibrant setting for swimming and sunbathing. The Brockwell Lido in Brixton is another gem, featuring a beautiful art deco pool and a charming café for post-swim relaxation. The Serpentine Lido in Hyde Park is another option if you prefer a natural swim.These lidos provide a refreshing and fun-filled summer experience, where you can take a dip, work on your tan, and enjoy a London in the sun.

Here's a full roundup of lidos in London.

Enjoy a day out in Richmond

I am totally biased because I live here, but I think that Richmond is one of the most special areas of London and it's perfect for a London summer activity because it is full of fun things to do outdoors. From exploring Richmond Park, the largest Royal Park in London, to renting a paddle boat in the River Thames, there are so many things to do in Richmond that it could keep you busy for more than just one day. 

If you want to cool off, Pools in the Park is an option for swimming in Richmond. Walking up to Richmond Hill is perfect for an evening picnic or sunset watch. There's lots of charming walks to take around Richmond, like on Old Palace Lane, where the old Richmond Palace is still standing. 

Richmond is far from central London but is easy to reach via tube, train, or even boat. Add it to your list for a nice day in London.

See the Royal Academy Summer Show

The Royal Academy Summer Show is a perfect escape from London heat if the sun is too much. It's an annual art exhibition that has been displaying the work of contemporary British artists since 1769. 

The Summer Show was initially conceived as an opportunity for Royal Academy members to showcase their work and for emerging artists to gain recognition. Over time, the exhibition has evolved into an eclectic display of art across a wide range of mediums, from painting and sculpture to photography and architecture.

What sets the Summer Show apart is its open submission policy, which means that artists of all backgrounds and levels of experience have the opportunity to have their works displayed alongside established and renowned artists. This means that seeing the exhibition is a one-of-a-kind experience due to the variety of work on display and the insight it provides into the art world in Britain. Being accepted to the Summer Show is one of the biggest accomplishments an artist can have.

What I love about the RA's Summer Show is that it usually adopts what is called a 'salon hang', meaning that works are stacked on the walls in crowded formations in order to fit as much in as possible. This was the traditional way of hanging an exhibition in past centuries, though we are not so used to it now. I love seeing the disparate artworks interact with each other and its truly inspirational to see.

Visit Petersham Nurseries

Enjoy a sunny summer day in London by surrounding yourself with flowers at Petersham Nurseries, located along the River Thames in Richmond. It's essentially the poshest garden centre in the world, with a beautiful homewares shop and a restaurant, tearoom and cafe.

All are located in glasshouses, so are sun-filled while also being an escape from the heat if necessary. The food at Petersham Nurseries is top notch, and embraces British ingredients and kindness to nature. 

The restaurant has a Green Michelin Star and is housed in a beautiful pergola structure, with pink flowers spilling over the ceiling and framing a gorgeous meal. The Afternoon Tea is located in a separate glass house, and is stunning with a hand blown glass tiered serving dish that has a vase holding the day's fresh flowers on the top. 

Walking to Petersham Nurseries from Richmond takes you through a meadow along the river, almost making you feel like you're in the countryside. It's an idyllic way to spend sunny days in London.

Dine outdoors

There are plenty of spots for outdoor dining in London during the summer months, and it's an ideal way to while away a summer evening. 

One of my favourites is Towpath, located along the canal in Hackney. It's a cult favourite and has an ever-changing seasonal menu. They don't take reservations, so you have to be prepared to spend some time queueing to enjoy this fantastic place. 

In the summer Towpath serves soft serve ice cream alongside other simple and fresh dishes. I love sitting here and watching paddleboarders in the canal and people strolling in the sun. 

Another excellent outdoor dining restaurant is Rochelle Canteen in Shoreditch. It also has a seasonal menu with simple small plates and is located in the garden of a converted school in a quiet neighbourhood of East London. Be sure to book well in advance to make sure you get a table. 

These are two of the best things to do in East London, but there's lots more to see with its flower market and art institutions.

Picnic in a London park

Picnicking in a park is a classic summer activity in London, where the parks fill with people on any sunny day. 

Hyde Park is a central location where lots of people meet after work. Meeting by the pond or the Serpentine is a nice way to spend the evening. Plus, when the British Summer Time festival is on, there are free events you can attend at a whim and drinks available in the park. 

Regent's Park is a favourite, especially in Queen Mary's Rose Garden during the rose bloom in June. 

Richmond Park is so expansive that a picnic here transports you to the countryside, so it's the perfect place to escape the city. 

Battersea Park is full of landmarks like the Peace Pagoda, making it easy to set up a group gathering. 

After you've chosen a park, consider looking into pre-made picnic baskets available at London's delis. Here's a great roundup of London picnic baskets to make things easy and delicious for your next picnic, especially if its for a date. 

Visit Kew Gardens

Visiting Kew Gardens is amazing in all seasons, but is a must on a sunny day in London. The sun shines through the glasshouses and the dappled light comes through the greenery, making it feel like a jungle. Endless varieties of flowers will be blooming throughout the summer months in the rose gardens, kitchen gardens and along the borders. 

Behind Kew Palace is a beautiful garden featuring a yellow laburnum arch, stunning at the end of spring. 

If it's really hot out, you can pretend you're in the desert by visiting the cacti in the Princess of Wales conservatory. 

Every summer Kew hosts a Summer Cycle evening, where visitors are free to bring in the bicycles and ride around the vast garden. Evening hours mean great light in the gardens, plus the ease to see everything on the botanic garden site which is otherwise far too large to explore in one day.

Paddle at the Somerset House fountains

Located along the banks of the River Thames, Somerset House is a prestigious cultural institution that seamlessly blends history, art, and contemporary creativity. This magnificent neoclassical building, originally constructed in the 18th century, stands as a testament to architectural splendor and serves as a vibrant center for arts and culture in London.

The Fountain Court at Somerset House is a captivating centerpiece that embodies the grandeur and charm of this iconic venue. During the summer months, the Fountain Court comes alive with its mesmerizing water feature. The fountain is a playful attraction, especially for children, to escape the heat in the summer months. 

While not being used as a place to paddle, the Fountain Court serves as a hub for various cultural events and exhibitions, like live music, festivals and installations. 

The Fountain Court is surrounded by galleries and cafes so quite a bit of time could be spend here on a sunny day in London. The Courtauld Gallery is the crown jewel of Somerset House, and one of the best small museums in London, if not the world. 

WatchHouse Roastery is a popular coffee shop in Somerset House that can provide refreshments for a day out in central London near the Strand. 

Go on a foodie walk around Bermondsey

Bermondsey is a hidden gem in London known for its art and culinary scene with several prominent street food markets, and is one of my favourite summer activities in London. Start your day at Spa Terminus, where independent food and drink producers offer a tantalizing array of artisanal treats. Maltby Street Market, tucked away under railway arches, beckons with its diverse food stalls and global flavors.

Continue your exploration along Bermondsey Street, where you'll find an enticing mix of specialty food stores, restaurants, and patisseries. Indulge in modern British cuisine at Bermondsey Corner, savor homemade pasta dishes at Flour & Grape, or delight in French pastries at Comptoir Gourmand.

Immerse yourself in the area's artistic offerings with a visit to White Cube Mason's Yard, showcasing ever-changing contemporary art exhibitions. The Fashion and Textile Museum is a haven for fashion enthusiasts.

No visit to Bermondsey is complete without experiencing the culinary delights of Borough Market. Sample the famous pulled pork sandwiches at The Black Pig and indulge in doughnuts from Bread Ahead bakery or apple crumble from Humble Crumble.

Bermondsey is one of the top places to visit in london in summer. See below for a full guide to Bermondsey.

Explore secret gardens in London

We are all familiar with London's Royal Parks, but the city is also full of smaller hidden gardens. These secret green spaces offer a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Summer is the perfect time to spend a day relaxing in one of these gardens.

One such hidden gem is St John's Lodge Gardens, located within the magnificent Regents Park. Tucked away behind tall hedges, this secluded garden boasts beautiful flower beds, manicured lawns, and a quiet place to enjoy the view of the lodge's architecture. 

Another enchanting hidden garden awaits at Fulham Palace. Once a residence of the Bishops of London, this historic site is now open to the public. The site includes a walled garden with lush greenery and a wide variety of flowers and vegetables growing, as well as one of the biggest wisterias in London and a friendly palace cat. It's free to enter and there's even a farm stall selling the garden's bounty. I love coming here to pick up fresh garden flowers.

For a hidden oasis in the heart of legal London, visit the Inner Temple Gardens. Tucked away behind the ancient walls of the Inner Temple, this tranquil haven offers a serene escape from the city's frenzy. It's only open to the public during weekday lunchtimes, so summer is a perfect chance to gain access. 

Enjoy the view from Primrose Hill

Primrose Hill is the perfect perch for London summer sunsets. This spot offers a panaroma of the city's skyline and has been an iconic London location for centuries. From here, you can see landmarks such as the Shard, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the London Eye. It's a popular picnic spot and one of my favourite summer things to do in London. 

While there, there are many charming streets to explore in the area surrounding Primrose Hill. Chalcot Square is particularly photogenic with its pastel-coloured houses. 

The Roundhouse is not far from here, and is a venue for performances and events, plus often has a rooftop open for the public. This could be a great outing to pair with Primrose Hill in the summer.

Make the most of the Thames

The Thames River, London's lifeblood, offers a plethora of summertime activities and picturesque walks that showcase the city's beauty from a unique perspective. Embarking on a leisurely stroll along the Thames Path provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the vibrant atmosphere of London. From Tower Bridge to Westminster, visitors can follow the river's meandering path, taking in stunning views of iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, the Houses of Parliament, and the majestic London Eye.

Some of my favourite walks include:

• wandering Rotherhithe towards Tower Bridge and London Bridge

• walking along Southbank and enjoying the nightime ambiance

• exploring the area between Hammersmith Bridge and Chiswick Mall

For a different perspective, consider hopping on a Thames river cruise. Cruising along the river offers a relaxing way to enjoy the city's skyline and soak up the historical ambiance. There are sightseeing cruises, dinner cruises, and also the more straightforward Uber boats used for transportation.

For a more adventurous take, several companies offer kayaking or paddleboarding excursions, and even speedboat experiences. This could make for one of the most adventurous things to do in London this summer.

Additionally, the Thames is dotted with charming riverside pubs and restaurants to enjoy the view. 

Beat the heat in a museum

London's world-class museums offer the perfect respite from the summer heat while providing a wealth of cultural and artistic treasures to explore. 

The National Gallery, located in Trafalgar Square, is a haven for art enthusiasts. With its extensive collection of paintings spanning centuries, including masterpieces by renowned artists such as Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Monet, the gallery is a treasure trove of artistic brilliance. In the summer months the National Gallery sometimes puts on outdoor drawing activities with easels in Trafalgar Square. Be sure to check out which art exhibitions are on this summer.

The vast British Museum is another museum big enough to keep one busy for days. From the Rosetta Stone and Elgin Marbles to the Benin Bronzes and Mesoamerican treasures, the British Museum offers the ability to travel across time in an afternoon. 

For a more intimate experience, head to the Courtauld Gallery, tucked away within Somerset House. This hidden gem houses an exceptional collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, featuring works by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh. It's one of the best small museums in London.

Explore London’s canals

London's canals offer a unique and picturesque way to explore the city while escaping the hustle and bustle. Embark on a leisurely stroll along the canal towpaths or indulge in various water-based activities for a refreshing and serene experience.

One of the most popular canal walks in London is along the Regent's Canal. This scenic waterway stretches from Little Venice in Maida Vale to Limehouse Basin, passing through charming neighborhoods like Camden Town and Regent's Park. Take a leisurely walk and soak in the tranquil atmosphere while admiring the colorful canal boats, charming houseboats, and vibrant street art that line the route.

For a different perspective, consider taking a canal boat tour. The most popular tours run between Paddington and Camden Town, and take you through the London Zoo and Little Venice. 

Paddleboarding is another popular summer activity in London's canals for a different perspective. Alternatively, it's possible to rent your own small boat to zip around the canals and enjoy picnic with freedom.

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There’s so much to experience on a sunny summer day in London. Make sure to make the most of it!