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Fun things to do in London this summer

There are so many fabulous things to do in London this summer. London is fantastic all year round, but when the temperature starts rising and the sun starts to shine, the surroundings and activities are even more enchanting. Here are a few brilliant things to do in London this summer – how many will you get ticked off before the seasons turn?

Dance the day away at Notting Hill Carnival

Notting Hill Carnival Flags, London

Notting Hill

27th-28th August

Stay: YHA London Earls Court

It happens every year. London sets aside their August ‘bank holiday’ for one of the world’s largest street carnivals; Notting Hill Carnival. The celebrations are a glowing and delightful display that showcases London’s rich and magnificent multicultural past and present. For any party lovers, this Carnival weekend is a vital date in your calendar. Definitely one for your list in London this summer!

Take in the summer skyline at a roof top bar

London the Shard modern office building financial district skyscrapers sunset

Stay: YHA London

London’s top rooftop bars have got attitude and altitude. With an incredible and recognisable skyline, there are plenty of superb places to enjoy a rooftop drink in London. The city boasts several excellent creations, at a variety of prices, locations and of course, views to enjoy, especially the summer skyline. Sounds great doesn’t it?

Pay a visit to the famous ZSL London Zoo

A group of Greater Flamingoes on a lake with good reflection in the water

Stay: YHA London Central

Open 364 days a year! The perfect thing to do in London this summer for families – Discover animals and adventures at ZSL London Zoo. Zoo life is packed full of wonder and amazement especially in the warmer months, with more than 750 species of animals to meet and thousands more fascinating facts just waiting to be explored and discovered. A great summer day out for everyone.

Explore Hyde Park

Hyde Park London

Stay: YHA London

Hyde Park is a far-reaching Royal Park in London, stretching from Hyde Park Corner to Kensington Gardens, making it a popular favourite for a summer walk in England’s capital. With over 4000 different types of trees, plants, flowers and meadows, the park includes many attractions including the Serpentine, the world’s first artificial lake, the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain and the Serpentine Gallery. Hyde Park also includes several cafes to grab a bite to eat, making Hyde Park is an ideal place to spend time; walking, horse riding, and for the brave, swimming in a special designated area of the shimmering lake. Make sure Hyde Park is on your summertime adventure list.

Go on a ramble

Little Venice in London

Stay at YHA London Central

London is also a great walking destination, especially in the summer. So why not get walking and have a go at one of our self-guided maps? Our Little Venice and Abbey Road easy route is a splendid walk full of iconic sites. Or if you’re feeling a longer wander, our Sightseeing Dash (East) moderate route is a great sightseeing tour of East London. Over 80 attractions have been highlighted on the map. A walk full of  but history, architecture, nature, monuments, statues, art and museums. Enjoy!

If you take any snaps, share them on your socials using #YHAWalks.

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Photo credit: I-Wei Huang / Adobe Stock

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Written by Ruby Higton

Here is Ruby and she is a digital marketer at YHA. She looks after social media, content writing and SEO. Her favourite hostel is YHA Perranporth.

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ActivitiesFun things to do in London this summer