The Best Times to Visit London
When to Visit London and What to Do?
The best time to visit London often depends on your interests, but each season boasts its own unique charm. Whether you’re seeking cultural events, vibrant festivals, or just a leisurely stroll through picturesque parks, London is always ready to impress. From the iconic skyline to historic landmarks, London is a bustling metropolis that never fails to captivate.
For a splash of culture or a taste of tradition, London’s events calendar is packed year-round. Immerse yourself in world-class theatre, explore fascinating museums, or savor diverse culinary delights. With a blend of history and modernity, this city offers countless experiences that appeal to every type of traveler, ensuring your visit is nothing short of remarkable.
1. April
Springtime splendor and ceremonies
Good for: History, Couples
April is a fantastic time to visit London, with the city shaking off its winter chill. As the flowers bloom, the city’s parks and gardens burst into life, offering scenic beauty and refreshing walks. April is also marked by historic royal ceremonies like Maundy Thursday, adding a touch of regal tradition to your visit. It’s an ideal month for those seeking a mixture of culture and nature.
During this time, you can enjoy the London Marathon, a vibrant celebration of endurance and community spirit. Also, traditional afternoon teas during Easter offer themed menus with delightful seasonal treats. Don’t miss the chance to explore the woodlands carpeted with bluebells, a rare photo opportunity.
April
2. Summer
Vibrant festivals and sunlit adventures
Good for: Food, Families
London transforms into a lively hub of events and activities in summer. The city comes alive with the BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall, offering affordable tickets to world-renowned classical music performances, making it a great season for those who love music and culture. This multicultural hub also boasts a vast range of global cuisines, and Borough Market and the Southbank Centre offer a taste.
The warm weather also makes it ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions. Experience open-air cinemas and theaters, where you can watch Shakespeare under the stars. Take a historic cruise along the Thames for stunning views of iconic landmarks. Check out London Pride, a vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ culture, for a truly inclusive experience.
Summer
3. October
Cultural celebrations and autumn beauty
Good for: History, Photo
October in London is a delightful mix of cultural festivities and natural beauty. It’s a great time to explore the city’s rich culture, with events like the London Film Festival showcasing premiere films and filmmaker Q&As, while the large South Asian population means Diwali in Trafalgar Square offers a dazzling display of lights and music. Be sure to visit the city’s famous museums as well during their late-night openings for a unique after-hours experience with talks, cocktails, and vibrant exhibitions.
Celebrate Halloween with spooky tours at historic sites like the Tower of London and revel in fall ambience in the royal parks, where the crisp air and golden foliage make it a photographer’s dream.
October
4. Christmas
Festive lights and timeless traditions
Good for: Food, History, Shoppers
London is adorned in twinkling lights and festive decorations when Christmas comes to town, creating a magical experience. It’s a time when history and festivity blend seamlessly, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Attend traditional carol services at iconic venues like St. Paul’s Cathedral, steeped in musical heritage.
Explore Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, a massive festive fairground with ice skating and Bavarian-style markets, or take a walking tour of Christmas lights on Oxford Street and Covent Garden. To warm up, enjoy seasonal menus in historic pubs, where mulled wine and roast dinners in centuries-old taverns offer a cozy retreat from the winter chill.
Christmas
5. New Year
Spectacular celebrations and quiet retreats
Good for: Nightlife, Shoppers, History
New Year in London is a time of vibrant celebrations and quiet moments of reflection. The Thames Fireworks Display is a globally televised spectacle, lighting up the sky with pyrotechnics over the London Eye, and adding to the festive cheer and joyful gatherings.
Join the New Year’s Day Parade, featuring colorful processions through central London. Or, for a more relaxed experience, explore museums and galleries early in January when they are less crowded. Take advantage of winter sales in iconic stores like Harrods and Selfridges for luxury bargains after the holidays.
New Year
6. Chinese New Year
Vibrant celebrations in Chinatown
Good for: Food, History, Families
During Chinese New Year, London hosts one of the largest celebrations outside Asia. Chinatown and Trafalgar Square are vibrant with dragon and lion dances, martial arts displays, and traditional music. It’s a time of cultural immersion and joyful festivities.
Explore cultural workshops and exhibitions at museums like the British Museum and enjoy traditional cuisine in Soho and Chinatown, where symbolic dishes like dumplings are a must-try. Travelers with kids can also take part in family-friendly activities such as storytelling and craft sessions. Enjoy the festivities and admire the streets adorned with red lanterns, creating a picturesque setting for photography.
Chinese New Year
7. Notting Hill Carnival
Caribbean vibes and colorful parades
Good for: Food, Families
The Notting Hill Carnival is a celebration of Caribbean culture, attracting millions of attendees annually. This vibrant event features steel pan and calypso music, elaborate costumes, and lively street parades. It’s an explosion of color and sound, amazing for those seeking a lively and festive atmosphere.
The Children’s Day Parade is a family-friendly highlight, offering smaller crowds and youth performances. Arrive early to secure a good spot along the parade route and immerse yourself in the community spirit and joyful energy of the carnival. And when you’re hungry, indulge in authentic Caribbean street food from jerk chicken to plantain.
Notting Hill Carnival
8. London Fashion Week
Innovative style and emerging talent
Good for: Shoppers, Luxury
London Fashion Week is a global fashion hub, showcasing cutting-edge designers and emerging talent. Fashion enthusiasts and industry insiders won’t want to miss events like Fashion Scout, which offer a glimpse into future trends before they become mainstream.
Explore pop-up boutiques and installations across the city, open to the public, and capture bold and creative street style looks around Somerset House and Soho. Consider attending fashion talks and exhibitions focused on ethical fashion and eco-conscious innovation and learn more about the future of sustainable fashion and the industry in general.
London Fashion Week
9. Open House Festival
Exclusive access to hidden gems
Good for: History, Photo, Budget
Take advantage of a rare opportunity to explore London’s hidden architectural gems at the Open House Festival offers. Visitors can access buildings that are normally closed, gaining insights into design and urban planning. It’s an incredible chance for architecture enthusiasts and curious explorers.
The festival focuses on sustainability and innovation in architecture, and you can join behind-the-scenes tours and community-led events that showcase the city’s diverse social fabric. Be sure to bring your camera for unique photo opportunities of rooftops, interiors, and heritage sites rarely seen by the public.
Open House Festival
10. Wimbledon Fortnight
Tradition and tennis excellence
Good for: Food, History, Adventure
Wimbledon is the oldest tennis tournament in the world, and it’s steeped in tradition. Sports enthusiasts and fans of the game will find it an incredible experience. Of course, you have to enjoy the quintessential strawberries and cream ritual, a Wimbledon staple.
Join the famous Wimbledon queue for same-day tickets, offering a communal way to access world-class tennis. When you’re not watching the games, explore the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum and its interactive exhibits and memorabilia. Wander through Wimbledon Village, with its boutiques and pubs, for a peaceful contrast to the excitement of Centre Court.
Location: Church Rd, London SW19 5AG, UK
Wimbledon Fortnight
This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.