Exploring London in June: Weather, Events, and Travel Tips

June in London surprises many with its mild temperatures and vibrant activities. While the expectation may be of a cold and damp city, visitors will find pleasant weather, making it an excellent time to explore its rich history and exciting events.

London Weather in June

June is one of the most comfortable months for outdoor activities in London. The average high temperature reaches about 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius), with average lows around 52 degrees Fahrenheit (11 degrees Celsius). Visitors can expect sun for an average of 7 hours per day, ideal for sightseeing.

What To Pack

The weather can be unpredictable, thus packing wisely is essential. Some days will be sunny and warm, while others may be overcast and rainy. Therefore, visitors should consider packing layers, a light jacket, and an umbrella. Comfortable walking shoes are necessary for navigating London’s scenic canal-side paths and charming cobblestone streets.

June Events in London

June hosts numerous festivities and events, from cultural exhibitions to grand parades. Here’s a rundown of the most popular events to look forward to:

• Queen’s Birthday Parade: The ceremonial Trooping the Colour event, celebrating Queen Elizabeth’s public birthday, features a grand procession of over 1400 soldiers and musicians.
• Royal Academy Summer Exhibition: Held from mid-June to mid-August, this event showcases around 1,000 selected art pieces, celebrating artistic talents since 1759.
• Free Range – Art & Design Degrees Shows: An exciting event in June and July where emerging artists exhibit their works in various creative fields.
• London Open Garden Squares Weekend: Early to mid-June offers a rare chance to explore hidden gardens across the city.
• World Naked Bike Day (Hyde Park): This unique event takes place on a Saturday in early June, celebrating cycling awareness with a twist.
• Spitalfields Festival: Running throughout June, this festival offers diverse musical performances, workshops, and engaging talks.
• London Rathayatra (Hare Krishna Festival of Chariots): A vibrant and joyous celebration occurs on a Sunday in June, featuring dazzling parades.
• Opera Holland Park: Enjoy stunning operatic performances held from June to early August.
• Bike Week: This mid-June event emphasizes cycling, featuring various community activities.
• Beating Retreat: Experience a ceremonial evening in June with military music and fireworks.
• Taste of London: In late June, this culinary festival showcases the best of London’s food scene in Regent’s Park.
• BP Portrait Awards at the National Portrait Gallery: This prestigious event takes place from mid-June to mid-September, celebrating contemporary portrait artistry.
• West End Live: In late June, Trafalgar Square hosts free performances from top West End shows.
• Greenwich & Docklands International Festival: This late June festival showcases outdoor art, street performances, and more.
• Wimbledon Tennis Championships: Taking place in the last week of June, this iconic Grand Slam event captures the essence of British summer!
• Wireless Music Festival: Enjoy a vibrant music celebration in Finsbury Park, held annually in either June or July.

Travel Tips

June marks the peak tourist season in London, which means travelers may find it challenging to secure affordable accommodations and flights. Meanwhile, fall and winter often bring better deals, albeit with potentially wetter weather. Consequently, it is advisable to plan upcoming June trips in advance and keep an eye out for potential promotions and deals.