Overview
The Summer Bank Holiday in 2025—Monday, 25 August in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and Monday, 4 August in Scotland—is a brilliant time to make the most of the last bit of summer in London. This long weekend is one of the UK’s favourite bank holidays, packed with festivals, family fun, and outdoor activities, all under the (hopefully) sunny August skies. Whether you’re after a big event, a relaxing day out, or something to keep the kids entertained, London has plenty to offer.
Festivals and Events to Enjoy in August
The Summer Bank Holiday weekend is famous for its lively events, and London doesn’t disappoint:
- Notting Hill Carnival (24–25 August): This iconic street festival is a highlight of the bank holiday in England, filling the streets of Notting Hill with music, dancing, and Caribbean culture. Expect colourful parades, steel drum bands, and plenty of food stalls serving jerk chicken and rum punch. It’s a great day out for all ages, but arrive early to beat the crowds.
- South West Four (SW4) Festival (23–24 August): Held on Clapham Common, this music festival brings top DJs and electronic beats to London. While it’s more for adults, there are often family-friendly areas with food stalls and activities nearby on the common.
- Camden Fringe (4 August–1 September): If you’re in London on 4 August (Scotland’s Summer Bank Holiday), catch the Camden Fringe, a month-long festival of comedy, theatre, and cabaret. Look for family-friendly shows during the day to enjoy some laughs together.
Family-Friendly Activities for the Bank Holiday
Keep the kids entertained with these family-friendly ideas over the Summer Bank Holiday:
- London Zoo: Spend a day at London Zoo, where you can see animals like lions, penguins, and giraffes. The zoo often hosts summer events, like animal talks or feeding sessions, which are perfect for curious kids.
- South Bank Fun: Head to the South Bank for a mix of free activities, from street performers to outdoor games. The Underbelly Festival might still be on, offering circus shows and family entertainment, or you can just enjoy a walk along the Thames with an ice cream.
- Kew Gardens: Explore Kew Gardens, where the summer flowers are in full bloom. The Children’s Garden has climbing frames, slides, and water play areas, making it a hit with younger kids, while parents can relax in the beautiful surroundings.
Outdoor Activities to Soak Up the Summer Sun
August weather in London is usually warm, around 15–20°C, making it a great time to get outside:
- Hyde Park: Pack a picnic and head to Hyde Park for a chilled day out. You can rent a pedal boat on the Serpentine, play in the Diana Memorial Playground, or just relax on the grass with a good book while the kids run around.
- Thames River Cruise: Take a boat trip along the Thames for a fun way to see London’s landmarks, like the Tower of London and the London Eye, from the water. Many cruises offer family tickets and commentary to keep everyone entertained.
- Battersea Park: Visit Battersea Park for a family bike ride, a go on the adventure playground, or a visit to the small zoo. The park’s riverside location makes it a lovely spot for a summer stroll.
Cultural Experiences in London
Add a bit of culture to your Summer Bank Holiday weekend with these ideas:
- Theatre Shows: Catch a family-friendly show like The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre, or check out the Dominion Theatre for new musicals. Matinee performances are perfect for a bank holiday treat.
- Tate Modern: The Tate Modern often has free exhibitions in August, with interactive displays that kids can enjoy too. It’s a great spot for a cultural outing without spending a fortune.
- Street Performers in Covent Garden: Wander through Covent Garden, where street performers entertain with magic tricks, music, and comedy. The market’s shops and cafés make it a fun place to spend a few hours.
Day Trips from London for the Bank Holiday
If you fancy a change of scenery, here are some day trips to try over the Summer Bank Holiday:
- Brighton Beach: Just an hour by train, Brighton is perfect for a beach day. Build sandcastles, play arcade games on the pier, or grab fish and chips by the sea.
- Leeds Castle: Visit Leeds Castle in Kent, known as “the loveliest castle in the world.” It’s got beautiful grounds, a maze, and family activities like falconry displays, making it a great day out.
- Epping Forest: For a nature escape, head to Epping Forest, where you can go for a family walk, have a picnic, or even try horse riding. It’s a peaceful spot not far from the city.
Practical Tips for the Summer Bank Holiday
Here are a few tips to help you plan your Summer Bank Holiday in London:
- Weather: August is usually warm, around 15–20°C, but it can be rainy (about 60mm for the month). Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket just in case.
- Transport: The Tube and buses might run on a reduced schedule over the bank holiday. Check TfL for updates, and consider walking or cycling to enjoy the summer weather.
- Crowds: Big events like Notting Hill Carnival can get very busy, so arrive early to find a good spot. Smaller attractions like parks or museums might be quieter options.
- Book Ahead: If you’re planning to see a show or visit a popular spot like London Zoo, book tickets in advance to avoid missing out, as bank holidays can get packed.
Make the Most of Your Summer Bank Holiday in London
The Summer Bank Holiday in London 2025 is a fantastic chance to enjoy the city at its sunniest, with loads of events, family activities, and outdoor fun to choose from. Whether you’re dancing at Notting Hill Carnival, exploring London Zoo, or taking a day trip to Brighton, there’s something for everyone to make the long weekend special. For more ideas on the previous bank holiday, check out our guide, “UK Bank Holidays 2025: Your Complete Guide to Public Holidays“