Summer in London is magical! The city sheds its winter coat, the days stretch long and golden, and the river and streets buzz with energy. To truly make the most of the season, you need to get out and experience London from every angle—especially the water and the open air.
Here are three unbeatable activities that leverage the best of a London summer, offering stunning views and memorable experiences.
1. The Scenic Commute: Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise
Ditch the crowded Tube! A river cruise from Westminster to Greenwich is the ultimate way to travel in the summer. It’s not just transportation; it’s a floating sightseeing tour that offers a refreshing break from the city streets.
-
Why it’s a Summer Must: The river air is cool and invigorating, and the long journey allows you to soak up the sun from the open deck. As the boat glides along, you gain a unique perspective on landmarks that look entirely different from the water.
-
The Sights: Cruise past iconic London giants: the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, the sleek modernity of The Shard and Canary Wharf, the imposing Tower of London, and the architectural marvel of Tower Bridge.
-
The Destination: The journey culminates in Greenwich, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend the afternoon exploring the Cutty Sark, standing on the Prime Meridian at the Royal Observatory, and relaxing in Greenwich Park before cruising back.
2. The Classic View: Guided Open-Top Bus Tour in a Vintage Routemaster
There’s no better feeling in summer than sitting on the open top of a bus, feeling the breeze, and having a professional guide point out the city’s hidden histories and grand sights.
-
Why it’s a Summer Must: The panoramic open-top view is incomparable, perfect for photographers. Specifically choosing a tour using a Vintage Routemaster (the classic 1950s red double-decker) adds an element of quintessential British charm and nostalgia that standard tour buses lack.
-
The Experience: These guided tours typically offer live, entertaining commentary, which brings the history of every street and building to life. You’ll cover massive ground—from Trafalgar Square to St. Paul’s Cathedral—without tiring your legs.
-
Insider Tip: Many vintage bus tours are short (around 1.5–2 hours) and offer the choice of combining your ticket with an attraction entrance (like the Tower of London) or even a fun inclusion like a Cream Tea at Harrods, turning a simple ride into a complete summer package.
3. The Magical Journey: Harry Potter Walking Tour with a Boat Ride Option
The summer months are perfect for a walking tour, but adding a river element turns a simple stroll through Muggle London into a full-scale magical adventure.
-
Why it’s a Summer Must: London’s narrow streets and hidden alleys (like the inspirations for Diagon Alley and Knockturn Alley) are best explored on foot. Once the walking is done, the optional boat ride provides a relaxing finish, gliding past the real-life locations of the Millennium Bridge (“The Wobbly Bridge”) that featured in the films.
-
The Highlights: Tours often start near Platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross and take you to filming locations for the Ministry of Magic, the Leaky Cauldron, and the bridges used for spectacular aerial shots. Your guide, a true “Potter-head,” provides trivia and behind-the-scenes stories you won’t hear anywhere else.
-
The Combination: Look for combined tickets that include the Thames River Cruise after the walking portion. It’s a fantastic, low-effort way to see additional major landmarks and give your feet a rest before dinner.