London in the Summer: A Delightful Experience

Earlier this year, one of the world’s largest air and travel service providers revealed that London is officially the prettiest place to visit in the summer. As the results came in, the team at iBestTravel began reflecting on all of the things we love most about the city we live in during summer months.

While the capital hasn’t served up its typical glorious summer sunshine this year, as we set our sights towards the second half of the year, the city struck gold with a final blast of hot weather to bookend the season.

Why London Shines in the Sun

It’s tricky to explain why London is so perfect in the sun without sounding clichéd. However, something magical happens to the capital when the sun’s out. The city gets a hazy glow, and there’s a low buzz echoing through the streets of each neighborhood, with the river twinkling in the heat.

Vibrant Outdoor Life

• Every inch of green space becomes a gathering spot, filled with sunbathers enjoying ice-cold drinks.
• Outdoor dining expands as restaurants spill out into the streets, creating a distinctly European vibe.
• We fall back in love with our neighborhoods, celebrating their charm as the sun casts a warm glow.

Summer Activities in London

With rose-tinted sunglasses on, Londoners embrace the summer spirit. Flasks of tea are replaced with wine coolers, and picnics are packed into baskets. The nostalgic melodies of ice-cream vans are met with smiles, and the city’s rooftops that remain empty for most of the year suddenly bustle with activity.

Exploring London’s Parks and Lidos

As the UK’s greenest city, you’d think there wouldn’t be a problem finding a grassy spot for a picnic, but that is rarely the case during a London heatwave. Despite the city’s 3,000 parks, space is a premium. Consequently, Londoners flock to the city’s lidos—open-air swimming pools where families come together to cool off. Here, you can find cheerful children, sunbathers, and parents seeking a refreshing dip.

Make the Most of the Last Summer Days

This weekend, as temperatures soar to 33 degrees Celsius, remember to apply your sun protection, soak up the Vitamin D, and cherish the reasons why London in the sun is truly the best place to be.