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View of City Hall and the Shard from Tower Bridge at sunset, London, UK
London Life

How to Make the Most of Sunny London

London is set for a full week of sun with Friday having highs of 20 degrees! And if there’s one thing Londoners know, it’s how to make the most of the good weather. Now is the perfect opportunity to explore the city in all its sun-soaked glory. Here’s how to make the most of the sunshine in London this week and weekend.

Picnic in the Park

London’s green spaces truly come to life in the sun. Grab a picnic blanket, pack some delicious snacks, and head to one of the city’s iconic parks. Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Hampstead Heath offer great spots for soaking up the sun. If you fancy a view, Primrose Hill is unbeatable for a sunset picnic with stunning views of the city.

Rooftop Bars and Beer Garden

There’s no better way to enjoy a warm evening than at one of London’s many rooftop bars. Head to Alto at the top of Selfridges or Netil360 for amazing drinks with a view. If you prefer something more laid-back, London’s beer gardens are great spots to unwind. If you want to stick close to home, The Thirsty Scholar has a cozy outdoor space, but if you’re looking for places further out in the area, try The Faltering Fullback in Finsbury Park and The Edinboro Castle in Camden.

skyline picture taken from London Bridge rooftop bar.
Head to London Bridge’s rooftop bar for £6 Aperol Spritz on Sundays!

 

Outdoor Markets and Street Food

Take advantage of the sunshine by exploring London’s lively outdoor markets. Borough Market is a must-visit for foodies, while Maltby Street Market and Broadway Market offer delicious street food and local delicacies. Camden Market is another excellent option for a mix of cuisines and great riverside vibes. Mercato Metroplitano Market is a fan favourite with locations in Elephant and Castle, Mayfair and Wood Wharf, however it’s closing very soon so make sure to check it out before it’s too late!

Thames Walk and River Cruises

A stroll along the Thames is even better when the sun is shining. Walk from Westminster to Tower Bridge, stopping at Southbank for a drink at one of the riverside bars. Alternatively, hop on a Thames Clipper or take a guided river cruise to see the city from a new perspective.

A view of Tower Bridge and the city of London from the riverside restaurant at sunset or sunrise
Make sure to time your riverside walks, the sun sets at 7:30pm this week.

Explore Kew Gardens

With the sun shining, there’s no better time to explore the beauty of Kew Gardens. Wander through the botanical gardens, walk along the treetop walkway, and take in the floral displays. It’s a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Kew Gardens also is famous for its cherry blossoms and now’s the perfect time to see them! Greenwich Park, Regents Park and St James Park are also notorious for their stunning cherry blossom trees.

Open Air Cinema and Theatre

Warm evenings are perfect for outdoor entertainment. Check out open-air cinema screenings at venues like Rooftop Film Club and Luna Cinema. If theatre is more your style, Shakespeare’s Globe offers an incredible open-air experience along the Thames.

Cycling Around the City

Make the most of the sunshine by renting a Santander bike and cycling through London’s parks and canals. The route from Hyde Park to Kensington Gardens and along the Regent’s Canal is particularly scenic.

A beautiful path in Hyde Park in London with the Shard skyscraper on the horizon
If you’re on a budget, hiring a Santander bike is perfect, you can get day travel passes for just £3.

Brunch in the Sun

Outdoor dining is a must when the weather is this good. Head to spots like Dalloway Terrace, The Ivy Chelsea Garden, or Hackney’s Towpath Café for a delicious brunch with outdoor seating.

Day Trips to the coast

If you fancy an escape from the city, take a day trip to Brighton, Whitstable, or Southend-on-Sea. The sunny weather makes for a perfect beach day with fish and chips by the sea.

 

Don’t miss out on this rare stretch of beautiful weather. Get outside and soak up the sunshine while it lasts! Where will you be spending your sunny London days? Let us know in the comments!

 

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Exploring London on a Student Budget

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