It seems like London has finally got the memo, and we’re getting some hot temps coming this week, just in time for the weekend. If you’re caught out and are on the hunt for ways to keep cool, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in London when it’s hot.

Watch a film al fresco

If you aren’t heading to a nicely air-conditioned cinema this week, pack on your suncream and head to one of London’s open-air cinemas instead. We’ve handpicked our favourites worth chilling out on in the sun.

Sunbathe in a park

Despite being filled with skyscrapers and tower blocks, London is filled with natural beauty too, thanks to its numerous parks. Pack yourself up a picnic and head down to your favourite green spot.

A favourite of ours is Richmond Park and, of course, you can’t go wrong with London’s very own Central Park – Hyde Park.

Head to our favourite riverside destination

Wander around Battersea Power Station and discover the first chapter of its regeneration. Bear with us. The riverside neighbourhood is strewn with a real mix of independent and design-led restos, bars, shops and exciting things to do. Meander around the site discovering its powerful history (pun intended) and stop off for a bite to eat at one of their many restaurants or refresh with an ice-cold beverage at one of the many bars. We also recommend rounding off your visit with a trip to JOIA to soak up the city’s skyline from its rooftop bar.

Make a splash at an open-air lido

Whether you’re after somewhere to bring your children in tow or want to get some serious lengths in, London is brimming with plenty of outdoor pools worth making a splash about. Ditch your deflating paddling pool this week and cool down by splashing about in one of London’s open-air lidos. 

Wander around Kew Gardens

Explore the wilderness whilst still in the city thanks to Kew Gardens. Whether you want to seek some shade from the sun or be transported to their very own indoor tropical rainforest, it’s a great spot for all the family.

Take shelter from the heat by exploring the hidden royal home, Kew Palace, home to George III and Queen Charlotte. If you’re after a showstopper view, head over to the Great Pagoda – prepare yourself for the 253-step climb first, though.

Cycle around the city

For a cheap fix, cycle around the city on one of the Santander Cycles. From biking along the canal towards London Fields to Richmond Park’s Tasmin Trail, it’s time to saddle up and feel the breeze against your skin. Here are a few of our favourite trails around the city to get you started.

Relax on one of London’s top rooftop bars

If in doubt, head to a rooftop bar. From endless cocktail parties to soaring views across the capital, we’ve rounded up the very best rooftop bars to soak up the sun.

Go on an ice cream crawl

Picture the scene: it’s mid-afternoon on a piping hot day in London, you step off a sauna-like tube, make a beeline for your favourite ice cream parlour, and get handed a scoop of rich, creamy, frozen ice cream. It’s a relief like no other. And in a city full of ice-cream parlours serving up smooth scoops and dreamy sundaes, cooling down in London has never been so delicious.

From authentic Italian gelato and refreshing sorbets to indulgent desserts and creamy soft serves, here’s your ultimate guide to ice cream in the city.

Cruise along the Thames

There’s nothing like a warm summer breeze running through your hair, especially when you’re sticky from humidity. Swap the tube for a boat ride along the Thames and soak up some of the city’s most iconic landmarks while you do so.

Kayak along the river

London might not be able to guarantee that blissful sea breeze, but it’s home to the Thames, where you can whizz down on enjoying that cool spray of water hitting you as you paddle board, kayak or raft. Here’s where you enjoy London’s best watersports… 

Hit up our favourite date night spots

Whether you’re looking to impress on a first date or you’re celebrating your fifth anniversary, here are some romantic date ideas for London in the sun.

Ditch the city altogether and head to a proper beach

Sometimes the heat really does get too much, and you want to feel a proper sea breeze through your hair. While the UK might not be a tropical country, there are still some picturesque beaches that are best enjoyed when the sun is shining. Here are a few beaches close enough to London for a good day out.

London, Travel

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