When is the best time to go to London?

28.08.2023 - 13:15 / lonelyplanet.com / London

You could easily argue that there's no such thing as a bad time to visit England's capital city – world-class events running year-round, incredible galleries and museums, cozy pubs, and beautifully landscaped parks and gardens.

London does not hold back from flaunting its many stunning attractions no matter what the weather is doing....although, spoiler alert, what it's doing often involves gray skies.

For this reason, summer is the season to be in this exciting capital. Festivals are rife across the city, pop-up markets and beaches (yes, pop-up beaches) appear all over, and al fresco eating and drinking are all the rage. Prices might be higher, but the option to entertain outdoors means summer is when London is at its most exciting and glamorous.

As with anywhere, you should time your visit to suit your interests and budget. Our seasonal guide will help you decide the best time for your visit to London.

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Expect to be cheek by jowl with strangers on the sweaty public transport system and fork out higher prices for accommodations. But this is also the time the city is buzzing with events – from one of the largest street parties in the world to small pop-up book fairs and markets.

London's parks fill up with locals enjoying the summer sun, and beer gardens overflow with the sound of vitamin-D-induced joy and laughter. It's the perfect time to skip the heat and humidity of the tube and explore the city on foot.

June begins with long, warm days (it's light until 10pm) and the arrival of many alfresco events, including a naked bike ride through the city. The South Bank is a lively spot for a wander, with something always happening, whether that's street food markets or live music; it also plays host to the Meltdown festival, which is curated by a different artist every year. Delve into the world of art and design at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition and the London Festival of Architecture. 

July brings high temperatures and sporting prestige as Wimbledon rolls out the green carpet to international tennis stars. Enter the ticket lottery and you could be enjoying strawberries and cream at the final. London's LGBTIQ+ community takes to the streets to celebrate Pride and the whole city becomes a rainbow-filled delight. Keep the party going and dance into the wee hours at Wireless Festival.

August brings festival season throughout the UK but London goes into overdrive with the hugely popular Notting Hill Carnival. This glorious celebration of