London is a brilliant city to be in all year round, but during the summer months, it goes to the next level. With the mercury regularly pushing past 25 degrees Celsius and sunset often being after 8 pm, there is plenty of time throughout the day to explore the city’s many charms. So, on days like this, when you’ve got time on your hands, you may find yourself wondering what to do on a hot summer’s day in London. Well, here are six fantastic options you should consider.
1. Relax at Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath offers you a wonderful slice of nature without leaving the city. Spanning 320 hectares, the beautiful green space is a lovely, shady spot to enjoy a gentle stroll. It is also home to the iconic swimming ponds, which provide the perfect place to relax and cool off. There are separate ponds for men and women, as well as a mixed pond, so you can swim in whichever one you feel most comfortable in. At most times of the year, it might be a bit chilly for a dip. But between July and August, it should be refreshing enough to put swimming in them at the top of your list of what to do on a hot summer’s day in London.
When not swimming in the ponds, head on up to Parliament Hill for spectacular panoramic views of the London Skyline.
2. Swimming at the West Reservoir
If you don’t fancy heading up to Hampstead Heath for a dip in the ponds, why not make your way over to the West Reservoir instead?
Reached via easy walking distance from Finsbury Park and Clissold Park, West Reservoir is the place to go for a genuine, open-water swim. Here, you’ll be able to complete a 100-metre or 400-metre loop, although you’ll have to wear a bright pink, orange or red swimming hat, as it is compulsory. The reservoir is more suited to confident swimmers. However, sailing, kayaking, or canoeing are also available for those who don’t fancy a swim.
3. Explore Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens is another green space you should add to your London summer bucket list. The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew are home to the world’s largest and most diverse botanical collection, which is especially beautiful in the summer. Wandering through its grounds, you’ll be dazzled by over 40,000 tropical plants, towering trees and colourful floral displays. When the sun gets too hot, take refuge in Palm House and the Waterlily House or enjoy an iced coffee at one of its air-conditioned cafes.
4. Take a boat ride on the Thames
No list of what to do on a hot summer’s day in London is complete without taking a boat ride on the River Thames. Not only does this provide you with a terrific way to beat the heat, but it also enables you to see London’s superb architecture from a different perspective. You can choose from a variety of boat trips, including a leisurely cruise with commentary, a high-octane speedboat ride, or even a self-guided paddle on a kayak.
During the journey, you will pass by some of London’s most iconic landmarks, including the Tower of London, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. Overall, it’s a relaxing and scenic way to take in the sights without having to battle the weather or crowds.
5. Picnic in the park
London has some wonderful parks, and on a warm, sunny day, a great way to spend the day is to enjoy a picnic at one of them. It might surprise you to discover that the city has over 3000 parks and green spaces, including famous ones like Regent’s Park, Clapham Common, Green Park, and St James’s Park. Most of these parks have picnic tables where you can enjoy an al fresco meal. However, if you can’t find a spare one, don’t be afraid to lay a blanket on the ground and lay your spread out.
Whichever park you decide to visit, just be sure to dispose of all your rubbish responsibly.
6. Enjoy a pint in a pub with a beer garden
Lastly, what could be more British, or indeed London, than enjoying your favourite tipple in a pub with a beer garden? London has plenty of pubs with beer gardens, many of which also provide spectacular backdrops. Some good places to head to are The Dove Hammersmith and The Mayflower in Rotherhithe, both of which offer superb views of the River Thames.
Whether you’re plunging into open-water swims, wandering lush gardens, cruising the Thames, picnicking in iconic parks, or toasting with sunset pints, there’s no shortage of ways to savour a summer’s day in London. Pick a couple of favourites, map a loose route, and let the sunshine guide you, because the city truly sparkles when the days run long and the evenings glow.
