The Best Summer Events In London

With the city at its most beautiful when the sun shines, make the most of the summer season at these top summer events in London

When glorious summer sunshine beats down on England’s famously rainy capital, the whole city moves outdoors to revel in the good weather and endless schedules of summery events across London. From quintessentially English affairs like the Wimbledon Championships and Trooping the Colour to annual festivals like Notting Hill Carnival and Wireless Festival, there are endless celebrations to get involved with. Take a look at this guide to the best summer events in London and experience the city at its finest.

Trooping The Colour

One of the most long-lived traditions on London’s events calendar is Trooping the Colour, an annual ceremony in June to celebrate The Queen’s birthday. Thousands of people gather to watch and cheer the Household Division as they march or ride through the city to music from the marching band. The parade, which is led by the birthday girl herself from the Mall to Buckingham Palace, is British pomp and ceremony at its best.

Royal Ascot

One of the most highly anticipated hose racing spectacles in the world, Royal Ascot presents five days of races, fashion and socialising. It’s a great opportunity to get dressed up and bask in the atmosphere, and the sun, while hobnobbing with British high society and watching many of the globe’s finest racehorses compete for prizes totalling over £6 million.

Taste Of London

A highlight for visiting and resident foodies, Taste of London is a rare opportunity to sample cuisine prepared by some of the UK’s top chefs and restaurants in one place. As well as exploring cooking stations serving more than 200 taster-size dishes, guests at the Regent’s Park festival can attend cooking demonstrations, take part in hands-on masterclasses, watch live music, and much more.

Wimbledon Championships

The Wimbledon Championships is one of the biggest sporting events of the season and should be top of every tennis enthusiast’s bucket list. With 13 days of non-stop tennis across a number of courts, there’s plenty of opportunity to support your favourite stars. Watch the biggest names in the tennis world battle it out on Centre Court or relax on Henman Hill and enjoy some traditional strawberries and cream overlooking Court 2.

RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show

A celebration of British horticulture, the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show is a beautiful day out for the whole family. Set in the striking grounds of Hampton Court Palace, if the weather is on your side, it will be a glorious experience.

Wireless Festival

One of the biggest outdoor music events in London, Wireless Festival takes over Finsbury Park for three days of live music each summer. Previous artists have included Calvin Harris, Cardi B and Drake.

BBC Proms

Widely considered the greatest classical music event of the year, BBC Proms returns to London’s Royal Albert Hall for a busy eight-week schedule of concerts and performances by some of the world’s greatest musicians and artists. There’s also a series of workshops and talks to continue visitors’ musical journeys.

Notting Hill Carnival

A bright and boisterous celebration of London’s diverse society and arts culture, Notting Hill Carnival takes over Notting Hill each August bank holiday weekend. Visitors can watch the colourful parade that snakes through the streets, listen to live music and sample delicious street food. An exciting close to the best summer events in London.