Feel The Heat: London’s Must-Do Sunny Day Experiences

Sun’s out? Check out these fantastic London activities and spots.

Published: March 24, 2025
London sun

When the sun shines in London, the city transforms into a vibrant playground. Streets buzz with activity, parks bloom with life, and outdoor cafes invite you to sit and soak it all up. If you’re looking to make the most of a sunny day in the capital, there’s no shortage of exciting activities. From expansive gardens and lively markets to cultural festivals and scenic river walks, London offers endless opportunities for outdoor fun. Let’s explore the top things to do in London when the sun is out and fill your day with joy and adventure! 

Kew Gardens 

Head to Kew Gardens for a spectacular display of nature’s beauty. Wander through stunning glasshouses and colourful blooms, soak up the tranquillity and abundant nature found within. The expansive landscapes and educational exhibits promise a peaceful and enlightening outdoor adventure. 

Camden Market 

Dive into the bustling world of Camden Market. Discover eclectic stalls filled with unique finds, from vintage fashion to artisanal crafts. Enjoy the lively energy and array of international street food, making it a food and shopping paradise. 

Covent Garden 

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Covent Garden. Watch street performers, browse charming shops, and savour treats in cozy cafes. The lively entertainment and artistic spirit make it a must-visit for any sunny day. 

Hyde Park 

Hyde Park 

Start your day with a leisurely stroll or a relaxing paddle on the Serpentine in Hyde Park. Enjoy vast open spaces, picturesque gardens, and lively events. Whether you're picnicking or boating, the park's atmosphere offers a refreshing escape from the urban hustle. 

Notting Hill 

Explore the colour-splashed streets of Notting Hill. Visit the famous Portobello Road Market, known for antiques and fashion, or relax in a charming garden square. The area’s eclectic charm and vibrant community provide a delightful experience. 

Hampstead Heath 

For stunning city views and refreshing nature, head to Hampstead Heath. Hike up to Parliament Hill or swim in the natural bathing ponds. The mix of scenic landscapes and outdoor activities offers a perfect day in the sun. 

Alexandra Palace 

Visit Alexandra Palace for entertainment and panoramic views of the city. Enjoy the expansive parklands, open-air events, and vibrant atmosphere. From picnics to live music, the venue offers a dynamic blend of recreation and culture. 

The Regents’ Canal 

regents canal

Take a picturesque walk or bike ride along The Regents’ Canal. Enjoy the peaceful waterside setting and charming houseboats. The scenic pathway provides a relaxing escape and a unique view of London. 

The Southbank Centre 

Explore the lively Southbank Centre, offering outdoor performances, exhibitions, and festivals. Enjoy riverside walks, grab a bite at nearby food stalls, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. It’s a cultural hotspot with endless outdoor activities. 

Richmond Park 

Discover the natural beauty of Richmond Park, home to deer and diverse wildlife. Take a leisurely stroll, cycle through the trails, or relax by a picturesque pond. The expansive landscapes and serene environment offer a tranquil day out. 

Chelsea Physic Garden 

Visit the Chelsea Physic Garden, London’s oldest botanical garden. Explore beautifully curated plant collections and learn about medicinal herbs. The intimate setting and lush surroundings provide a serene escape and fascinating insight into botany. 

Greenwich Park 

greenwich park

Head to Greenwich Park for panoramic views and a touch of history. Visit the Royal Observatory, wander through ancient trees, and enjoy the scenic beauty. The blend of nature and culture offers a fulfilling outdoor adventure. 

Primrose Hill 

Ascend Primrose Hill for one of London’s best skyline views. Relax on the grassy slopes or enjoy a picnic with friends. The cheerful ambiance and breathtaking vista make it a popular spot for locals and visitors. 

Battersea Park 

Explore the attractions of Battersea Park, from its charming boating lake to hidden garden nooks. Visit the playful zoo or take a riverside walk. The park’s diversity and lively spirit make it a lively family destination. 

Little Venice 

Discover the quaint beauty of Little Venice, where picturesque canals are lined with colourful boats. Take a boat ride or enjoy a canal-side coffee. The serene waterway and vibrant setting offer a delightful, leisurely outing. 

Thames River Cruise 

thames river

Embark on a relaxing Thames River Cruise. Enjoy scenic views and informative commentary while sailing past iconic landmarks. The gentle rhythm of the river and captivating sights create a wonderful way to explore London while embracing the sunshine. 

Somerset House 

Visit Somerset House for outdoor events and cultural experiences. Enjoy open-air concerts, exhibitions, and summer installations. The grand courtyard and riverside location offer a lively backdrop for sunny activities. 

The Scoop 

Catch a free performance at The Scoop, an open-air amphitheatre on the riverbank. From concerts to theatre, enjoy diverse entertainment under the sun. The lively setting and community vibe make it a fun outing. 

St. James’s Park 

Take a leisurely walk or picnic through St. James’ Park and you’re sure to spot some charming pelicans – birds you won’t find in many other places around the captial. The picturesque landscape and tranquil atmosphere offer a peaceful retreat. 

Build your unique London itinerary with our trip planner

We’ll give you the best route to check off all your must-sees, museums, landmarks and more

Create my ownGenerate my trip
Powered by our data and AI
BETA

Electric Cinema 

For a unique movie experience on a sunny evening, visit Electric Cinema in Notting Hill. Enjoy plush seating and art deco interiors, making it a standout cinematic experience. The blend of classic charm and modern comfort is perfect for a relaxed night under the stars. 

With so many exciting options, sunny days in London become an invitation to explore and enjoy. From peaceful parks and lively entertainment to scenic waterside walks and vibrant markets, the city offers endless possibilities for outdoor adventures. Enjoy your sunshine-filled journey through London! 

For more summer fun in the city, check out our picks of London’s best parks, as well as the best walking tours the capital has to offer. 

Step up your sightseeing with The London Pass®.

We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets. 

See more, do more, and experience more with The London Pass® - just choose a pass to get started! 

 

Powered by AI

This article was generated with the help of AI to provide accurate and up-to-date information. The Go City team has reviewed and curated the content to ensure it meets our quality standards for accuracy and relevance.

Build your unique London itinerary with our trip planner

Who's going?
Adult
1
Child (5-15)
0
How many days?
What do you want to see?

Continue reading

Buckingham Palace, London on sunny morning
Blog

Fascinating Buckingham Palace facts

Seeing Buckingham Palace is a must for anybody visiting London. Whether you're a massive fan of the Royal Family, or you simply want to see one of Britain's biggest historical landmarks, you'll find something to love inside its large, lavish walls. Buckingham Palace is located in Westminster, in the heart of central London, and with St. James's Park and Green Park as its backyards. It serves as the official London residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. The palace has a long and colorful history - it wouldn't be British without one. So, without further ado, here are some fascinating facts about Buckingham Palace you may not have known. With The London sightseeing Pass®, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price - and enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual tickets to London attractions.  ✈️ Buy The London Pass® ✈️ When was Buckingham Palace built? Buckingham Palace was originally known as Buckingham House, and was built in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham. King George III then bought it in 1761. Construction of the 775-room palace we see today began in 1825, and it's been the official London residence for all reigning monarchs since Queen Victoria took up residence in 1837. The Palace went way over budget The original Buckingham House was transformed by the esteemed architect John Nash into what it is today. However, he accidentally went over budget and was fired for overspending. Take a look at the gilded detailing and it's no surprise. Nash transformed Buckingham House - as it used to be known - into the grandest possible version of itself, rebuilding the two east wings and adding in the triumphal arch, originally for ceremonial processions into the palace. That arch now lives at Marble Arch - yes, that's the Marble Arch. After Nash, a new architect called Edward Blore completed the work on the palace. Which British Royal was the first to live in Buckingham Palace? Before the palace as we know it was built, the history of the site goes as far back as the Middle Ages, when the site formed part of the Manor of Ebury. (We haven't heard of it either.) It was used for different buildings by different people, including Henry VIII back in the 16th Century. However, once King George IV's planned work was completed, he never even had the chance to call it home. Queen Victoria moved in in 1837, and was the first British Royal to live in Buckingham Palace, followed by the late Queen Elizabeth II. Throughout WW2, the royals refused to leave the palace London was bombed heavily throughout World War Two. And, with Buckingham Palace being the cultural landmark it is, it became a massive target. Despite being advised to leave for their own safety, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth kept calm and carried on, refusing to leave - even though the palace was hit nine times over the course of the war.  There are over 700 rooms in the palace Buckingham Palace has hosted thousands of visitors throughout the years. And with a whopping 775 rooms, it's not hard to see how.  Among the 775 rooms are 19 grand State Rooms for events, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 78 bathrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, and 92 offices for the King, Royal Family, and staff. Of the State Rooms, the Throne Room is for ceremonial and official events - and the Prince and Princess of Wales took their wedding photos there. Most opulent is the White Room, where the King receives guests. When are the State Rooms open? The State Rooms are only open to the public in the summer. Since Buckingham Palace is very much still a functioning royal residence, throwing its doors open to the public isn't always practical. That's why they only open up during August and September when Queen Elizabeth heads off to Scotland for the summer holidays. Of course, that means you won't catch a glimpse of the Queen at any point of your visit. What kind of art can be found in Buckingham Palace? Buckingham Palace is home to a vast collection of masterworks, including paintings, sculptures, and other beautiful objects. Some of the most widely recognizable pieces include works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Canaletto. The Royal Collection Trust, which manages the art collection, offers tours of the palace where visitors can view many of these masterpieces One of the highlights is the massive painting of Queen Victoria's coronation, which has to be seen to be believed. A massive fan of the royals managed to break in three times As a kid, little Edward Jones was pretty fascinated by the Royal Family. So much so that he managed to sneak into the residence three times. Well, at the very least he was caught three times. He managed to steal Queen Victoria's underwear (!), as well as food from the kitchens. He even boasted to the press that he'd sat on her throne. Without breaking in, it's possible to visit the Throne Room and see the three gilded royal seats for yourself.  Does King Charles III live in Buckingham Palace? As head of 'The Firm', King Charles III prefers to be based at Clarence House (also in London), but doesn't live at Buckingham Palace. He does carry out official engagements there, however. Tradition tends to dictate that the monarch lives at Buckingham Palace. Queen Elizabeth II and the late Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh lived in the private apartments on the north side of the Palace. Other members of the Royal Family have lived in rooms on the upper floors of the north and east sides. Royal Family members, such Princess Anne, and Prince Edward and Sophie Countess of Wessex, hold private apartments at the palace but don't live there full-time. So it's unlikely you'll bump into any of them making a cup of tea in the kitchen while you're visiting! Over 800 people work for the Royal Household, and a lucky few do live in suitably posh apartments (which are said to be lovely, but obviously not as grand as their royal bosses'). There are also staff quarters for a range of household workers, some of whom might live there too.    There's a way to tell if the King is there If you're passing by and wonder whether the King is in, well, you're in luck. Want to know what to look out for? It's all to do with a flag. If the Union Flag is flying over the palace, then you're out of luck - he's not there. However, if the Royal Standard flag is flying, then he is in the building, or at least making a visit.  Buckingham Palace is like an opulent mini-village  Besides the Throne Room and the sprawling grounds, there's a lot going on, inside and outside of the main building. The Royal Mews, built in 1824-1825, are home to luxurious vehicles, and horses that work during special events. The garden alone, filled with beautiful plants and trees, covers 42 acres, making it the largest private garden in London. You'll be able to see some of it, but most of it is closed to the public. There's also a cinema and a swimming pool, a Post Office and police station, a clinic and even an ATM. See London's magnificent palaces and everything it has to offer With The London Pass®, you can enjoy a tour not just of Buckingham Palace, but three other royal residences and the Houses of Parliament with Top Sights Tours.  Planning your London trip? With The London Pass®, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you'll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  ✈️ Buy The London Pass® ✈️
Dom Bewley
London Eye
Blog

London Eye Spy: a challenge for junior agents

Attention spies! Your mission – should you accept it – is to board a secret spy vessel in London, codename: The Eye, and locate an agent gone rogue before the time runs out.
Selina Whitby
Harry Potter platform luggage
Blog

Harry Potter In London: Everything You Need To Know

London is a magical destination for Harry Potter fans, with plenty of tours, attractions, and experiences that bring the world of wizardry to life. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking for a fun way to explore the city, there's something for everyone here. As one of Britain's most notable literary characters, The Boy Who Lived has made his mark on the English capital. And, sadly, why you may not be able to visit Hogwarts in London, you can still find plenty of Harry Potter here. This is our list of all the unmissable Harry Potter experiences in London. Just solemnly swear you'll be up to no good. Planning Your Harry Potter Experience in London If you're planning a trip to London to explore the world of Harry Potter, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make the most of your experience. First, be sure to book your tickets in advance for any tours or attractions you want to visit. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child are both extremely popular and can sell out quickly, so it's best to book as far in advance as possible.  💰 >> See how you can save up to 50% on lots of attractions with The London Pass® Second, consider the time of year you're visiting. London can be busy during peak tourist season, which can mean longer queues and crowds at popular attractions. If possible, visit during the shoulder season or off-season to avoid the crowds and get a more relaxed experience. Third, plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your time in London. There are many Harry Potter-related attractions and experiences to choose from, so it's important to prioritize what you want to see and do. You might want to start with the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London to get a behind-the-scenes look at the films, then explore some of the filming locations and other sights on a walking or bus tour. Be sure to leave time to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, a must-see for any theatre fan. Platform 9 3/4 Slip into King's Cross Station and find the elusive entrance to the Hogwarts Express train platform. It was here that all the greatest witches and wizards took their first steps on their magical journeys. Fans of the series can pose with Harry's luggage trolley under the Platform 9 3⁄4 sign. There's even a dedicated photo spot for aspiring young magicians. And once you've got the perfect photo, venture into the beautifully-designed Harry Potter shop. Find the perfect memento to mark the occasion. There are lots to choose from.  Address: King's Cross Station, Euston Road, King's Cross, London N1 9AL  Opening times: Store hours: Monday - Saturday; 8am - 10pm, Sunday: 9am - 8pm  Prices: Free Harry Potter Bus and Walking Brit Movie Tour Want to indulge your Pottermania and take in London at the same time? Brit Movie Tours offers not one, but two Harry Potter bus and walking tours. They'll take you from the entrance of the Leaky Cauldron all the way to the Ministry of Magic. Available as a half or full-day tour, the route takes guests past some of London's biggest tourist attractions. Visitors can see the Tate Modern, St. Paul's Cathedral, Borough Market and many more.  🎥 Enjoy Brit Movie Tours with The London Pass® Address: Walking tour begins at Westminster tube station, while the bus tour begins at Temple tube station. Duration: Walking tour: 2 hours; bus tour: 2.5-3 hours Prices: £17 for adults, or included in The London Pass     Harry Potter Studio Tour If you're looking for an immersive experience, consider visiting the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter. This behind-the-scenes tour takes you through the sets, props, and costumes used in the films, and gives you a chance to see some of the special effects that brought the magic to life. You can also take a walking tour of London that takes you to some of the filming locations and other sites associated with the series, such as the Leaky Cauldron pub and the entrance to the Ministry of Magic. For a more panoramic view of the city, you can take a Harry Potter bus tour that covers all the major sights, from King's Cross Station to the London Eye. The sprawling studio is ripe for exploration, with several hours of fun and entertainment. Starting at the very beginning with Harry's little cupboard under the stairs, you'll travel to iconic locations like the Great Hall, Diagon Valley and Privet Drive. The souvenir store alone makes the journey worth it. Address: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden, WD25 7LR  Opening times: Varying opening hours daily, all times available here  Prices: Adults: £53.50, children: £43  Westminster Not only is Westminster one of London's most iconic districts, but it's also packed with Harry Potter film locations. Begin at Westminster tube station, where Muggle-fanatic Arthur Weasley bumbled his way through the turnstiles with Harry. Then, leisurely make your way over to Westminster Bridge to relive the stunning flight over the Houses of Parliament in the Order of the Phoenix. Budget time in to see the rest of the area and Westminster Abbey - while they aren't related to Harry Potter, they're still well worth seeing. Millennium Bridge Featured in the iconic opening scene in The Half-Blood Prince where Death Eaters collapse the Millennium Footbridge, this pedestrian-only suspension bridge over the Thames offers awesome views of St. Paul's Cathedral as you walk from south to north. Leadenhall Market To get into Diagon Alley, you won't have to remember a secret code word. All you need to do is head over to Leadenhall Market, where the covered Victorian walkways and charming shopfronts were featured in many Diagon Alley exterior shots. Keep an eye out for 42 Bull's Head Passage, an optician's shop with an unmissable bright blue door used as the entrance for the Leaky Cauldron. Squint, and you're there.  Address: Gracechurch Street, London, EC3V 1LT  Opening times: Monday - Friday, 10am - 6pm; closed on weekends  Prices: Free London Zoo's Reptile House  Explore the location where Harry first discovered his 'parseltongue' ability and innate gift for talking to snakes in the Philosopher's Stone. Home to over 650 species from reptiles and mammals to invertebrates, birds, fish and more, the London Zoo is a must-visit for all visitors. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child If you're a theatre fan, don't miss the chance to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Palace Theatre. This award-winning play tells the story of Harry, Ron, and Hermione's children as they navigate the challenges of Hogwarts and the wider wizarding world. The play is presented in two parts, so be sure to book tickets for both to get the full experience. Undoubtedly one of the most exciting things to come out of the Potter franchise in recent years, this two-part play is the official eighth instalment of the Harry Potter story. It's based on a story by J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany. Set long after the seventh book ended, Harry now works full-time at the Ministry of Magic and has three young children - including Albus, the youngest who has also inherited his father's gift for troublemaking. Bear in mind that the show sells out quickly, so make sure to book your tickets well in advance. And those are all the best locations to experience Harry Potter in London. Fancy discovering more of your favourite film locations? Why, step right this way. No matter how you choose to explore Harry Potter in London, you're sure to have an unforgettable time. Don't forget to stop by the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 3/4 to pick up some souvenirs and mementoes from your trip. Experience everything London has to offer with The London Pass® Planning your London trip? With The London Pass®, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you'll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets. ✈️Buy The London Pass®✈️
Dom Bewley

Get your free guidebook!

Plan your perfect trip with our insider guide – top attractions, itineraries and local tips straight to your inbox.