London holidays

Best time to go to London

The best time to visit London is during the summer months from June to August, when temperatures average around 18–24°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities like picnics in Hyde Park or exploring the city's gardens and markets. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer milder temperatures of 10–15°C, perfect for leisurely walks along the Thames or visiting museums and galleries. Winter (December to February) sees temperatures around 2–8°C, but London's festive atmosphere, including Christmas markets and ice skating rinks, adds a magical touch to the cityscape. Whenever you visit, London's diverse attractions and events ensure there's something to enjoy year-round.

How to get to London

Getting to London is straightforward, with various transportation options. Trains connect London with major UK cities. If you prefer driving, motorways provide access to London, though traffic can be an issue – watch out for the Congestion Charge! National Express and Megabus offer affordable coach services to various destinations in the UK. London's airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, and Luton, serve domestic flights, with efficient transport links to the city centre. Gatwick Express and Heathrow Express, plus taxis are all options to whisk you into the centre. Additionally, buses, trams and the Tube provide local connectivity, ensuring seamless travel within London upon arrival.

Getting around London

Getting around London is convenient and diverse, with an extensive public transportation network. The iconic London Underground, buses, and overground trains provide easy access to all corners of the city. For a scenic route, hop on a river bus along the Thames. Alternatively, embrace the city's cycling culture with numerous bike rental options and designated cycling lanes, ideal for exploring parks and quieter neighbourhoods. Electric scooters have also become popular for short trips and are available through various rental apps.

Things to do in London

London offers the usual famous sites such as the Tower of London, but why not sample a mix of classic and hidden gems:

• Explore local markets: Wander through Borough Market or Columbia Road Flower Market for authentic experiences.

• Discover neighbourhood pubs: Sample traditional ales in cosy pubs like The Mayflower in Rotherhithe.

• Attend cultural events: Catch a show at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre or enjoy live music at venues like Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club.

• Explore hidden parks: Find tranquillity in lesser-known green spaces like Hampstead Heath or Epping Forest.

• Visit historic landmarks off the beaten track: Explore lesser-visited sites such as Eltham Palace or the Dennis Severs' House for unique insights into London's history.

Activities for families in London

• London Zoo adventure: Spend a day at the London Zoo, marvelling at diverse wildlife and engaging in educational activities.

• Interactive museums: Visit family-friendly museums like the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum, offering interactive exhibits for all ages.

• Thames river cruise: Embark on a Thames river cruise, providing panoramic views of iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London and Big Ben.

Free things to do in London

• Covent Garden: Wander through Covent Garden's bustling streets, enjoying lively performances and browsing unique shops.

• Historic landmarks: Explore iconic sites like the British Museum and the Tate Modern, offering free entry to their vast collections.

• Royal parks: Unwind in London's green spaces like Hyde Park and Regent's Park, which are ideal for strolls and picnics.

Nature & Outdoors in London

• Royal Parks: Explore London's lush Royal Parks like Hyde Park and Greenwich Park, offering serene green spaces for relaxation and recreation.

• Canal Walks: Stroll along the picturesque Regent's Canal or the tranquil Grand Union Canal, enjoying scenic views and charming canal-side cafes.

• Chelsea Flower Show: Experience the world-renowned Chelsea Flower Show, a vibrant celebration of horticulture and garden design held annually in May.

Exploring London's culinary scene is like taking a gastronomic tour around the world, but there are some British classics and local experiences you shouldn't miss.

Local dishes in London

Some typical dishes: Start with a traditional Full English Breakfast, complete with eggs, sausages, bacon, beans, mushrooms, and toast. For lunch or dinner, try Fish and Chips, available at spots like Poppie’s, known for its authentic taste. Another must-try is the classic Sunday Roast with all the trimmings, served in many pubs and restaurants like The Jolly Butchers in Stoke Newington.

Street food: London’s street food scene is vibrant and diverse. Borough Market and Camden Market are prime spots for indulging in a variety of street food, from gourmet burgers at Honest Burgers to fresh, hand-made pasta at Padella in Borough Market.

Typical Drinks: No visit to London is complete without sampling some traditional British ales at a historic pub like The Mayflower in Rotherhithe, or sipping on a cup of English tea at The Ritz’s famous afternoon tea service. For something stronger, a gin and tonic from one of London’s numerous gin bars, such as The Distillery on Portobello Road, is a must-try.

Food markets: Borough Market is one of the largest and oldest food markets in London, offering a range of British and international produce. Another notable mention is the vibrant Brick Lane Market, where you can find a plethora of ethnic foods, vintage clothes, and handmade crafts.

From traditional British fare to international cuisines and street food, London’s food and drink scene promises an exciting adventure for your taste buds.

Local sports events: Experience London like a local

How to live it like a local: Dive into London's passionate sports culture by catching a live football match, the city's most beloved sport. Join the local fans at a pub for the quintessential experience of watching a game.

Stadiums or arenas: Visit iconic stadiums such as Wembley Stadium for football and Twickenham Stadium for rugby. These venues often host major national and international matches, offering a thrilling atmosphere.

Where to go to watch a match: For an authentic local experience, head to sports bars in areas like Camden or Shoreditch, where you can enjoy the game with a pint in hand among enthusiastic fans.

Sports facilities for travellers in London

Swimming pools: London offers numerous public swimming pools, such as the London Aquatics Centre in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, which provides facilities for all levels.

Yoga: You'll find many yoga studios across the city catering to all styles, from relaxing Yin to dynamic Vinyasa flows.

Fitness, dancing, tennis: Fitness enthusiasts can access a variety of gyms and dance studios. For tennis, visit the public courts in parks like Hyde Park or the Wimbledon Park.

Cycling in London

Bike rental: Santander Cycles, London's self-service bike-sharing scheme, offers an affordable way to explore the city. Bikes can be hired from docking stations spread across London.

Popular cycling routes: Embark on scenic rides along the River Thames or through the Royal Parks like Richmond Park and Regents Park, which offer picturesque landscapes and a safer cycling environment.

Hiking around London

Popular hiking routes: Discover the green outskirts of London with trails like the Thames Path, which runs along the river, or the Capital Ring, offering a circular walk through parks and woodlands.

Water sports in London

Kayaking and paddleboarding: The River Thames and London's canals offer unique urban kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding experiences. Several clubs and rental shops provide equipment and guided tours.

Golf courses in London

London is home to many prestigious golf courses, such as the Royal Wimbledon Golf Club and the Richmond Golf Club. These clubs offer excellent facilities set against the backdrop of London's natural beauty, providing a peaceful escape for golf enthusiasts.

Whether you're a spectator or a participant, London's diverse sports scene has something for everyone, from thrilling live matches to serene outdoor activities.

Seasonal Events in London

New Year: London welcomes the New Year with grand fireworks near the London Eye, accompanied by the New Year's Day Parade, featuring colourful floats and marching bands.

Christmas Shopping and Markets: From late November, London transforms into a festive wonderland. Oxford Street is famed for its dazzling lights and decorations, while Christmas markets like the one at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park offer unique gifts and festive foods.

Easter: Celebrations include special church services across the city and the reenactment of the Passion of Jesus in Trafalgar Square.

Gay Events: Pride in London in July is a vibrant celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, featuring a parade through central London and various performances.

Carnival: The Notting Hill Carnival, held in August, is one of the world's largest street festivals, celebrating Caribbean heritage, music, and culture.

Festivals in London

• Chelsea Flower Show (May): A world-renowned event showcasing spectacular garden designs and floral displays at the Royal Hospital Chelsea.

• Trooping the Colour (June): A ceremonial event marking the Queen’s official birthday with military parades and flypasts at Horse Guards Parade.

• The Proms (August): An eight-week summer season of orchestral classical music concerts held at the Royal Albert Hall.

• Notting Hill Carnival (August): A huge street party celebrating Caribbean culture with costumes, music, and food.

• London Film Festival (October): Hosted by the British Film Institute, this festival screens over 300 films, documentaries, and shorts from around the world.

• Lord Mayor's Show (November): A historic event featuring a procession to present the new Lord Mayor to the public, dating back over 800 years.

These events reflect London's diverse and vibrant culture, offering something for everyone throughout the year. For specific dates and more details, it's always best to check the official event websites or local listings, as dates and venues can change.