August in London: The Best Events, Festivals & Hidden Escapes
Hello August! Summer’s at its peak, and London is yours for the taking. With locals off on holiday, it’s the perfect time to soak up the city’s best events, hidden gems, and sunny spots. Here are 15+ unmissable things to do this month in the best city in the world.
Festivals & Live Events
Camden Fringe Festival (1st ~ 25th August)
London’s answer to Edinburgh Fringe — over 300+ indie comedy, theatre, and spoken word shows across Camden. Expect weird, wonderful, and refreshingly experimental acts, often in intimate venues. Perfect for discovering up-and-coming talent without the hefty West End price tag.
💷 Tickets: Many under £10
All Points East - at Victoria Park (15th ~ 24th August)
A multi-day music festival in Victoria Park featuring major headliners, indie gems, and a week of free community events in between. Expect dreamy sunsets, artisan food stalls, and a buzzing atmosphere - whether you're there for the big stage or the chill picnic vibes mid-week.
Tickets from £79.95~ (group of 4 or more £69.95~)
Notting Hill Carnival (24th ~ 25th August)
Europe’s biggest street festival - a full sensory overload of Caribbean culture, music, and food. Sunday’s the family-friendly day, while Monday brings the wildest party. High-energy culture and colour.
Tickets are Free!
Tip: Arrive early for less crowded backdrops and better light for photography.
Wellness & Outdoor Escapes
Yoga at the Sky Garden (from 9th August)
I recently tried Yoga at the Natural History Museum, and it was pure London magic - stretching under the soaring skeleton of a blue whale before the museum opened to the public. Unfortunately, tickets for that event are now sold out.
But if you’re after something equally unforgettable, yoga at the Sky Garden might just be the next best thing. High above the city skyline, the morning light floods the glass dome while London wakes up below. Plus, your ticket includes post-class access to the garden — perfect for a peaceful wander and a few photos. Saturdays & Sundays (9th, 10th, 23rd, 24th, 30th, 31st August); weekday sessions also available.
Tickets from £20~
Open-Air Theatre at Regent's Park
A magical theatre setting under the stars, framed by lush trees and golden hour light. Perfect for those London summer evenings.
Tickets from £15~
Swim at Hampstead Ponds or Parliament Hill Lido
Cool off in the city and in two of London’s most iconic outdoor swimming spots. The Hampstead Ponds are a slice of countryside tranquillity in the city; Parliament Hill Lido has that retro charm.
Tickets from £4.80 ~ (for pay as you go).
Kew Gardens in Bloom
Waterlilies, tropical greenhouses, and soft picnic shots. Late summer is the lushest time to visit Kew. Don’t forget to visit the greenhouse but remember to go early especially in the hot days as the place can get really hot!
Tickets from £22~ (book via this link on Fever)
Art & Exhibitions
Summer Exhibition at the Royal Academy (until 17 August)
A long-running tradition since 1769, the Summer Exhibition is an explosion of colour and creativity, showcasing work by emerging and established artists alike. Great for a slow afternoon wandering marble halls. And remember, you can buy these art! Ranging from £150 ~ £80,000!
Tickets from £23.50~
Tip: Visit on a weekday morning for quieter galleries.
Quick only until 17 August!!
Flowers Exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery (until 31st August)
The most beautiful exhibition this summer in London got extended until the end of this month. Visit the Saatchi Gallery to immerse yourself in the ‘beauty, symbolism, and creative power of flowers’.
Tickets from £18~ (*If you visit on Monday - Wednesday dressed in florals then you get 50% off your ticket!! More details here)
Paradox Museum
London's ultimate mind-bending photo spot.
Tickets £25~ [Use code SEIRETAKEDA10 for a discount on Fever - book via this link!]
Day trips out of London
Lavender Farms (this weekend would be the last time to visit these lush purple hues) - My favourite would be Hitchin Lavender Farm (only 40mins from Kings X) and Castle Lavender Farm (55mins from Blackfriars)
Cambridge (Things to do in Cambridge - check here)
Oxford
Folkestone
Margate
Dover
Cotswolds
August is when London is at its most playful — mornings can start in a serene sky garden, afternoons in leafy lidos, and nights under festival lights or theatre stars. With so much happening, the hardest part is choosing what to fit in. My tip? Bookmark this guide, grab your tickets early, and let your summer days unfold. Whether you’re here for culture, colour, or calm, London in August won’t disappoint.
Follow my adventures on Instagram and TikTok for more hidden corners and travel inspiration.
Thanks for wandering with me! x
With love,
— Seire
You Might Also Like
