Football, festivals and fun – here are the best things to do in London in the summer.
London comes to life in summer. The city is bursting with concerts, carnivals and cricket, and everyone is invited to join the celebrations. From free festivals and world-class concerts to thrilling sporting events, there’s something to make every day unforgettable. As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, it’s the perfect time to soak up the atmosphere, enjoy alfresco adventures and make magical memories. Here are the best things to do in London in the summer.
BBC Proms
BBC Proms takes place annually in the Royal Albert Hall. Running from 17 July to 12 September, it’s bursting with local and international talent. Whether you’re a classical music connoisseur or classically curious, there are lots of exciting events. This year’s season features 86 concerts across the UK, including flagship events at London’s Royal Albert Hall and regional performances in locations from Bristol to Mold. The line-up includes 41 orchestras and choirs from across the UK, and 20 international ensembles. Happy Proms.
Where: BBC Proms, Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London, SW7 2AP
When: 17 July to 12 September 2026
Price: Tickets from £12.20 to £1,000
Contact: www.bbc.co.uk
BST Hyde Park
The major music festival BST Hyde Park knows how to put on a show. Over the years, the headline acts have included Celine Dion and The Rolling Stones. Bruce Springsteen and Paul McCartney even performed at the festival together, and had the plug pulled on their set. This year’s line-up includes Garth Brooks on 27 June, Maroon 5 and OneRepublic on 3 July, Pitbull on 10 July, and Lewis Capaldi on 11 and 12 July.
Where: Hyde Park, London
When: 27 June to 12 July 2026
Price: Tickets from £79.95
Contact: www.bst-hydepark.com
Greenwich+Docklands International Festival
Get ready to be wowed at the Greenwich+Docklands International Festival. The festival returns from 21 August to 6 September 2026. The event brings together a dazzling programme of theatre, dance, circus and outdoor performances to public spaces. This year’s theme, We Move, celebrates movement, change and human connection through an exciting programme of international and homegrown talent. Best of all, every performance is free to attend.
Where: Across Greenwich
When: 21 August to 6 September 2026
Contact: https://festival.org
FIFA World Cup Final
Football fans, this is the biggest date for your diary. The FIFA World Cup final takes place on 19 July, and it’s a chance to celebrate the beautiful game. The games are being held across Canada, Mexico and the United States. If you couldn’t afford to travel, then you can settle for one of the many pubs, bars and restaurants showing the games. Venues range from the crowds at BOXPARK to the class at The Langham.
When: 11 June to 19 July 2026
Contact: www.fifa.com
Formula E World Championships
On your marks, get set, race. Formula E World Championships races into town at ExCel London. Taking place on 15 and 16 August, the track weaves inside and outside of the centre. The thrilling event welcomes world-class racers and hosts family-friendly activities, including test-driving experiences.
Where: Royal Victoria Dock, 1 Western Gateway, London, E16 1XL
When: 15 and 16 August 2026
Price: Tickets from £20
Contact: www.fiaformulae.com
Notting Hill Carnival
London gets into the groove with Notting Hill Carnival, which takes place on 29 to 31 August. Starting in 1966, it has become a celebration of Caribbean culture. The streets are lined with parades, live music, sound systems and street stalls. The sounds of calypsos and steel bands fill the air. Over the years, it has welcomed big names, from Beyoncé to Sean Paul. Jerk chicken is optional, but dancing is mandatory.
Where: Notting Hill, London, W11
When: 29 to 31 August 2026
Contact: https://nhcarnival.org
Somerset House Summer Series
Somerset House Summer Series is back for another year. Held in the charming courtyard, it brings together established and emerging acts from the UK and beyond. This year’s line-up includes Palace, Thee Sacred Souls, The Flaming Lips, Lightning Seeds, Agnes Obel, Venna, Raf-Saperra and Benjamin Clementine.
Where: Somerset House, Strand, London, WC2R 1LA
When: 16 to 26 July 2026
Price: Tickets from £50
Contact: www.somersethouse.org.uk
Summer Exhibition at the Royal Academy
London’s Royal Academy is home to the world-famous Summer Exhibition. Running for more than 250 years, it is the world’s oldest open submission. The beauty of the show is that anyone can enter a work of art, and it may make its way up onto the gallery’s walls. Running from 16 June to 23 August, the exhibition explores the theme of interconnectedness through art. The event brings together 1,500 works from established to emerging artists. =
Where: Burlington House, Piccadilly, London, W1J 0BD
When: 16 June to 23 August
Price: Tickets from £23.50
Contact: www.royalacademy.org.uk
The Hundred at Kia Oval and Lord’s Cricket Ground
Watch big-name cricket players take the pitch at The Hundred. Running from 21 July to 16 August, the event is held at Kia Oval and Lord’s Cricket Ground. The premise is easy: each team gets 100 balls, and the team that gets the most runs wins. Join the fun – it’s a family-friendly day out.
Where: Kia Oval and Lord’s Cricket Ground, London
When: 21 July to 16 August 2026
Price: Tickets from £14
Contact: www.londonspirit.com
Wimbledon
Wimbledon is one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world. Taking place from 29 June to 12 July, it is held at the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club. Over the years, the championship has welcomed sporting superstars including Billie Jean King, Boris Becker, John McEnroe and Serena Williams. This year, visitors can catch top players including Carlos Alcaraz and Emma Raducanu. Strawberries and Pimm’s are readily available, whilst eating grass (like Djokovic) is not recommended. Anyone for tennis?
Where: All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, Church Road, Wimbledon, London, SW19 5AE
When: 29 June to 12 July 2026
Contact: www.wimbledon.com