Last Updated on June 19, 2026 by Tavernier’s Travels
Whatever time of year you visit, there are always plenty of things to do in London. Even as someone who was born and bred in the capital, I have my own fairly exhaustive bucket list of places to visit (and it’s only growing as I discover more and more places to pay a visit to).
While London offers a host of sights to see and experiences to offer, there are some that are much better done in the warmer summer months – even if the British weather can be very unpredictable.
Here are your must-visits if you’re in London this summer:
Shakespeare’s Globe
Situated on Bankside, Shakespeare’s Globe is worth a visit for its history alone, not to mention the many productions the theatre stages. It’s a 1,570 capacity theatre, and much of that must be in the standing area – which is completely open to the elements (so while you may keep an eye out for rain in the forecast, look out for a heatwave too).
The theatre is a replica of the original; it’s the third one to have been built, the first having burnt down and the second had been closed in 1647 due to a decree ordering it to shut. Despite what its name suggests, it hosts plays other than solely Shakespeare’s. It’s one of the only places in London to have a thatched roof; due to a rule dating back to the Great Fire of London in 1666 which prohibited the use of the material, special permission had to be obtained to use it. This third edition of the playhouse was opened in 1997.
If you love Shakespeare, British history and/or an iconic setting, Shakespeare’s Globe is a must to add to your itinerary!
Somerset House
A former palace once resided in by Elizabeth I as a princess, Somerset House is now a cultural centre that hosts an array of events. Some of these include the Summer Series, where gigs are performed outside in the courtyard (which is also the location of the annual ice-skating rink in the winter months), as well as immersive art exhibitions.
But one of my favourite things to do at Somerset House in the summer is to simply grab a coffee from one of the cafés housed in the building and sit in the courtyard (if you can find a chair!). It’s also a great option for families looking for a respite from exploring the nearby area, as the water fountains in the ground keep children entertained and tired out (albeit outfits can be ruined in the process).
Southbank
Southbank has been one of my favourite parts of London for a long while now. It’s nice most times of the year, but particularly during the summer months, there’s something especially lovely about walking along the River Thames, murky as it can be, and admiring the various market stalls, street food vendors and iconic sights as you pass. One of the better markets (in my humble bookworm opinion) is the outdoor second-hand book market that takes place every Saturday just under Waterloo Bridge. As well as this, if you’re a fan of skateboarding, whether participating or simply watching, Southbank Skate Space is just a stone’s throw away.
Tennis events
Throughout June and July, London plays host to a number of grass court tennis events. These events include the Queens Club tournament and the Wimbledon Championships, among many others. You can read more about them here.
Greenwich
Greenwich in south east London is lush, and it’s worth a visit any time of the year. However, during the summer it takes on a special charm. It’s historic, gorgeous, and has a bunch of things to do there; you can visit the Cutty Sark (especially great if you have kids), take a stroll along the river, pay a visit to the Royal Observatory, meander around the Naval College (the latter of which was a filming location in Bridgerton), and explore the local markets all before enjoying a picnic in the park (which also plays host to spectacular cherry blossoms in the spring!).
