Everything you need to know about visiting London in August

London summers usually aren't too hot and are packed with local festivals and events, making August one of the best times to visit. The best things to do in London in August range from seeing trekking the River Thames to learning how to garden in a Royal Park.

August is one of the best times for music lovers to visit London. The month is packed with festivals, particularly the Notting Hill Carnival, which celebrates Caribbean culture. Here's everything you need to know about London in August to plan your trip.

Why go to London in August?

The month is packed with festivals and events

London hosts street and music festivals throughout August. The Notting Hill Carnival and Greenwich+Docklands International Festival both take place during late August. Meanwhile, the Carnaval Del Pueblo is usually held in early or mid-August, while the BBC Proms series of concerts last all month.

There are plenty of kid-friendly events

School’s off during the summer, which means family-friendly things to do in London in August galore. The city’s Royal Parks put on kid-focused events, including gardening classes at Hyde Park.

Of course, the summer holiday also means you should expect to see lots of kids during your trip, especially when visiting London's popular family attractions, such as Warner Bros Studio or Legoland. As you plan what to do in London in August, consider visiting the more family-focused attractions on weekdays (when parents might be working) and booking your tickets in advance.

The weather is perfect for exploring central London

London's warm August temperatures are perfect for exploring the streets, whether you want to window shop, go on a pub crawl, or stroll between landmarks like Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace. August is when London’s street culture is at its most vibrant, with drinkers spilling out of pubs to enjoy the afternoon sunshine and street food festivals.

What's the weather like in London in August?

August is one of London's warmest months. Though you may encounter occasional rainy or cloudy days, the London weather in August is usually sunny and pleasant – ideal for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and enjoying the city’s many parks and green spaces.

• Average day temperature: 71 F (22 C)
• Average night temperature: 55 F (13 C)
• Average days of rain: 8

Top things to do in London in August

1. Attend the Notting Hill Carnival in late August

This Caribbean street festival features live Jamaican and Reggae music, entertainment for kids, and hundreds of food vendors, with many focusing on Jamaican jerk chicken and other Caribbean dishes. It's held annually over the weekend of the August Bank Holiday, the last or second-to-last weekend of the month. The first Notting Hill Carnival was hosted back in 1966, spotlighting the district's diversity and Caribbean culture, and it's now one of Europe's biggest annual festivals.

The carnival blocks off the road for 3 miles (5 kilometers), providing plenty of room for processions, dances, and other activities in Notting Hill. Many attendees take their time absorbing the vibe of each different section of the carnival, as you'll find various types of music, food, and souvenirs as you go.

Address

Notting Hill, W10

Opening hours

Carival usually begins Sunday and Monday at 10:00 AM, ending in the evening

2. Enjoy family activities at the Royal Parks

Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, St. James' Park and many of London's other Royal Parks host family-friendly activities throughout the summer during London schools' summer breaks. These events let you and your family join a nursery experience, learn how to garden, listen to stories, and run free at Kensington Gardens' navy-themed playground.

The parks' biggest events are their immersive outdoor sessions for nature adventurers, which typically start in Hyde Park. These kid-focused activities explore different themes and corners of the park every weekend with various nature challenges. This can be a great way to learn about London's summer flora and the history of London's royal parks, with some dating back hundreds of years. Check out what's going on at London's parks during your August vacation.

Address

Hyde Park, W2 2UH

3. See the Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

The Greenwich+Docklands International Festival is an annual performing arts festival held in late August and early September. The free-to-attend outdoor event features various types of performances, including dancing, theater acts, music, and large-scale spectacles. The variety guarantees there's always something new and outstanding to see while walking through Greenwich in August.

Address

The Borough Hall, Royal Hill, Greenwich SE10 8RE

4. Enjoy Latin American music at Carnaval Del Pueblo

The annual Carnaval Del Pueblo, usually hosted in early or mid-August in Burgess Park, celebrates Latin American culture with live performances, art exhibitions, and deliciously spicy foods. The festival typically features kids' activities, futsal games, dance workshops, costumed performances, and other music activities in London.

Address

Albany Rd, SE5 0AL

Opening hours

Float parade typically held from noon–3:00 PM

5. Experience live orchestral music at the BBC Proms

Organized by the British Broadcasting Corporation, the BBC Proms celebrate the history of classical music with daily orchestra concerts, most of which are held in the Royal Albert Hall. This eight-week musical event lasts from late July until early September, with concerts available every day in London in August. You can also save money by purchasing a "promming" ticket for the traditional standing areas instead of a seat ticket.

Address

Kensington Gore, South Kensington, SW7 2AP

Opening hours

Concerts usually start at 7:00 PM or 10:00 PM, but check listings for details