Heatwave Hacks - London Living’s Top Spots To Keep Cool in The City This Summer
Summer in London can be sticky and uncomfortable to say the least, but to help you beat the heat we've curated a list of the top spots in the city to keep cool.
From hidden canal-side festivals to outdoor theatres, refreshing swimming spots, rooftop bars and urban beaches, here are London Living's summer picks
The Here East Summer on Canalside Festival
Nestled along the picturesque canals of East London, you will find Here East Canalside Summer Festival. Starting next Thursday 6th, and every Thursday throughout July and August, Here East will be the place to go to for after work for sunshine, food and drink and entertainment. Expect to be serenaded by live music, tantalised by a diverse array of food stalls, and captivated by the vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're seeking a refreshing beverage, mouth watering street food, or simply a tranquil spot to unwind, this festival has it all. With ample shaded areas to relax and cool down, you can take a leisurely stroll, relax in the sun, or simply sit back and soak up the festive ambiance.
Elephant Park London - Elephant Springs
Escape the heat and head to Elephant Park, a green oasis in the heart of Elephant and Castle. Make sure you explore Elephant Springs while you are there, it’s a unique water feature where you can splash about and build sandcastles. Let the kids cool off and enjoy the playful atmosphere while you relax and soak up the sun. This is a fantastic urban oasis that's perfect for beating the heat and an ideal spot to bring the kids and let them cool off while you enjoy some well-deserved relaxation under the sun. Don't forget to pack a delicious picnic and make a day of it.
Regents Park Open Air Theatre
Experience the magic of open-air theatre at the iconic Regents Park Open Air Theatre. Watch captivating performances against the backdrop of beautiful parkland. From Shakespearean classics to contemporary plays, there's something for everyone to enjoy. As the sun sets, the temperature drops, making it an ideal evening activity to beat the heat. We recently watched 'Once On This Island’ here and can highly recommend it.
The theatre is located within Regents Park, making it accessible by various modes of transportation. If you prefer public transport, you can take the Tube to Baker Street or Great Portland Street stations and enjoy a scenic walk through the park to reach the theatre. Alternatively, you can cycle or take a leisurely stroll through the park if you're in the mood for some outdoor exploration.
Discover London's East Village: A Summer Oasis for Locals
London's East Village is a vibrant and exciting neighbourhood that comes alive during the summer months. This urban oasis in Stratford offers a range of activities and experiences for locals to enjoy.
You can explore the picturesque Victory Park, or take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Waterworks River. The East Village Market is also a must-visit, with its diverse range of street food vendors and artisanal products and for those seeking a bit of outdoor fun, head to the nearby Olympic Park where you can cycle, jog, or simply enjoy a picnic by the water.
This July, you can also join in the fun at the lively East Village Stratford Summer Fete. This vibrant event features live music, street food stalls, and exciting activities for all ages. Stay cool with refreshing drinks and indulge in delicious treats while enjoying the lively atmosphere. It's a fantastic way to spend a summer day with family and friends.
With its lively atmosphere, beautiful green spaces, and array of dining options, we think East Village is the perfect destination for Londoners this summer.
Watch A Movie Under The Stars
Rather than staying home and watching Netflix with nothing but a hand-held fan to keep you cool this summer, why not head outside and watch a movie under the stars?
The Everyman Screen on the Regents Canal in Kings Cross offers a fantastic outdoor cinema experience allowing you to relax on comfy deck chairs while enjoying a film under the open sky. Grab some popcorn, sit back, and let the cool evening breeze accompany your movie night.
Kew Gardens is also offering five days of cinema magic, alfresco style, at Kew The Movies. The Botanical gardens have teamed up with The Luna Cinema to bring a fantastic line-up of films for families and adults, ranging from the Oscar-winning Top Gun: Maverick, the heart-warming adventure of Moana, Frozen and the box office smash Avatar: The Way of Water.
Dive into Summer Fun
Beat the heat by diving into London's open-air swimming pools. Experience the natural beauty of Hampstead Heath Pond, make a splash at the iconic London Fields Lido, or soak up the sun at Tooting Bec Lido. If you're near Hyde Park, don't miss the tranquil Serpentine Lido for a refreshing swim. These outdoor swimming havens offer a cool and invigorating escape from the city's hustle and bustle, allowing you to unwind and embrace the summer vibes.
Head To An Urban Beach
Escape to a beach paradise in the heart of London at Neverland. This unique beach bar in Fulham offers a sandy oasis where you can unwind and soak up the sun. Lounge on the deck chairs, sip on refreshing cocktails, and enjoy the beachside atmosphere without leaving the city. It's the perfect spot to chill out and embrace those summer vibes. In addition to Neverland London's Beach Bar there are a few more urban beach destinations in London that you can explore.
The Roundhouse in Camden transforms its rooftop into a sandy beach during the summer months. With beach huts, deck chairs, and beach-themed activities, it offers a fun and laid-back atmosphere. The Southbank Centre hosts an annual urban beach along the River Thames, where visitors can lounge on deck chairs, enjoy beachside food and drinks, and take part in various beach activities and events. The Beach at Brent Cross is a pop-up urban beach featuring a sandy shoreline, water slides, fairground rides, and beachside entertainment.
Alfresco Dining on Pavilion Road in Chelsea
Beat the heat in London by heading to Pavilion Road in Chelsea for a delightful alfresco dining experience. This vibrant street offers a haven of outdoor seating at its various cafes and restaurants, making it the ideal spot to enjoy a cool and relaxing meal. Treat yourself to artisanal coffee and brunch at The Roasting Party, savour fresh seafood delights at The Sea, The Sea, or indulge in authentic Italian dishes at Manicomio. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along Pavilion Road and explore the charming boutique shops and local traders.
Soak Up The Sun on London’s Stunning Skyline
London is known for its stunning skyline, and what better way to enjoy it than from one of the city's fabulous rooftop bars? Whether you're looking for panoramic views, unique experiences, or a trendy social scene, these rooftop bars have it all. Skylight Rooftop at Tobacco Dock in East London offers breathtaking vistas, while Queen of Hoxton Rooftop in Shoreditch promises themed pop-ups and live performances. For a hidden gem, head to Frank's Cafe in Peckham, and don't miss the iconic views from Madison Rooftop Bar near St. Paul's Cathedral. The Culpeper Rooftop in Spitalfields also provides a tranquil garden setting. Londoners can also experience the epitome of summer dining at the Cloudy Bay Summer Terrace; unique collaboration between London's OXO Tower Restaurant and the renowned New Zealand wine brand, Cloudy Bay. Nestled atop the OXO Tower, this enchanting al fresco space captures the essence of New Zealand's natural beauty with its lush greenery and panoramic views of London's iconic landmarks.
Whether you want the lively atmosphere of Here East Canalside Summer Festival, a family-friendly day at Elephant Park, a captivating outdoor performance at Regents Park Open Air Theatre, a touch of sophistication at Pavilion Road in Chelsea or a unique movie experience, at Everyman Screen in Kings Cross, London Living has got you covered in the capital this summer.
