A Local’s Guide to London in August [2023]

London is an exciting city that is full of life and energy all year round.

But there is something special about the capital during August.

As summer reaches its peak, the city comes alive with festivals, concerts, and outdoor events that are sure to captivate people of all ages.

From cultural celebrations to foodie festivals and everything in between, there is no shortage of things to see and do in London in August…

Planning a Trip to London in August

Weather in London in August

London weather in August tends to be warm and sunny, with slightly coolers evenings and occasional showers. It’s a great time to explore the city’s attractions and outdoor spaces.

  • Daytime temperatures reach around 22-23 C (mid-70s f).
  • But in recent years, some afternoons have peaked at highs of 30°c+ (mid-80s°f).
  • Early mornings and evenings may drop between 13-16°c (56-61°f).
  • 7-8 days of the month may still have some light rain or drizzle.
  • The sun rises around 5:45am and sets around 8:20pm.

What to Pack For London in August

If you’re traveling to London in August, make sure to pack plenty of summer clothes, like t-shirts, shorts, and dresses. But don’t forget to bring a few light layers for cooler evenings or days too.

  • An umbrella or a light raincoat is a must-have as rain is common year-round in England.
  • Pack a hoodie or a light jacket for the chilly evenings.
  • Comfortable shoes are essential as you will be walking around the city all day.
  • Pack a formal outfit for any fancy events, dinners, or nights out.
  • A good day bag is necessary to keep your possessions safe and easily accessible while you are out exploring the city.

Best Things to do in London in August

Take an Open Top Bus Tour

See the city’s highlights on a relaxing open top London bus tour.

A bus is a great way to see the best of the capital and travel between different tourist attractions without having to face the stuffy tube on a hot day in the city.

Check out my other London sightseeing tour recommendations.

Grab Food From a Market and Have a Picnic in The Park

Make the most of the good weather by picking up some delicious treats from one of London’s best food markets, then heading to a beautiful park or green space to enjoy your feast in the sun.

Don’t forget to pick up a few beers or cocktails in a can to sip with your picnic too!

Dine on Boat on the River Thames

Dine somewhere a little different this summer by taking to the water for a floating restaurant experience in the capital.

From luxury sunset dinner cruises, to floating DIY BBQ boat, there are plenty of option to choose from.

Check out London’s top boat restaurants here.

Enjoy a Sunset Movie Screening

During the warm summer months, there’s nothing quite like sitting next to one of London’s most famous landmarks, watching a movie on the big screen as the sunsets over the city.

Luna Cinema has outdoor movie screenings at Hampton Court Palace, Kensington Palace, Regent’s Park, and Kew Gardens during August, showing everything from cult classics to new releases.

Watch a Show at Regent’s Park Theatre

If you prefer live performances, head to Regent’s Park Open-Air Theatre, situated amidst the lush greenery of one of London’s most popular parks.

Exclusively open during the summer season, the outdoor theatre offers a diverse range of plays, musicals, comedies, and family-friendly productions.

August 2023 productions include:

Best Events in London in August [2023]

Camden Fringe (31st July – 27th Aug 2023)

Camden Fringe is an annual performing arts festival held in London throughout August. It showcases emerging artists and performers from all over London and the world.

The festival takes place in various venues across Camden and features a diverse range of performances, including comedy, theatre, dance, and music.

The festival is known for its unique and experimental performances, so if you’re looking for something a little different in London this summer, this is the place to be!

Things to do in Camden Town

Great British Beer Festival (1st – 5th Aug)

The Great British Beer Festival, organised by CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale), is a well-known annual event in the beer and cider world dating back to 1977.

It offers beer lovers the opportunity to sample hundreds of fantastic UK beers, international beers, real ciders, and perries within the iconic Olympia Exhibition Centre in West Kensington.

The boozy festival also features the Champion Beer of Britain award, street food stalls, live music, traditional pub games, festival shops, and more.

There’s even a Learning and Discovery area, so you can find out everything you want to know about the Nation’s favourite drink.

Taste of the Caribbean (5th, 12th, 19th Aug)

Taste of the Caribbean Food & Drink Festival is Europe’s largest festival dedicated to Caribbean cuisine and culture.

The vibrant festival features food vendors from all over the Caribbean, offering delicious hot dishes, desserts, drinks (i.e. lots of rum cocktails), and take home produce.

In addition to the food and drink, there are also live music performances, cultural exhibitions, cooking demonstrations, eating competitions, funfair rides, and plenty more.

The festival takes place in several different locations:

  • Sat August 5th – Kingston
  • Sat August 12th – Wimbledon
  • Sat August 19th – Hackney
Caribbean food festival in London in July 2023

All Points East (18th – 28th Aug)

All Points East is a relatively new multi-day music festival held in East London’s Victoria Park since 2018.

The 2023 line-up features Stormzy, Haim, The Strokes, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Tove Lo, and Lizzy McAlpine, amongst others. 

This year, the festival takes place over two weekends; Fri 18th and Sat 19th, and Fri 25th to Mon 28th.

There will also be a free program of events and activities taking place within the Victoria Park venue between Sun 20th and Weds 23rd.

The free activities include an outdoor cinema, live music and entertainment, street food and pop-up bars, children’s activities, and loads more.

Girls dancing at festival in London

El Carnaval del Pueblo (20th Aug)

El Carnaval del Pueblo is London’s annual celebration of Latin American Culture.

The carnival takes place each summer in East London’s Burgess Park, showcasing of the music, dance, food, and crafts of 19 Latin American countries!

The event features an exciting float procession, plenty of vibrant costumes, delicious food, and performances from some of Latin America’s most famous artists.

The festivities are free for anyone to attend, whether you’re from the region or not.

El Carnaval del Pueblo in London in August

Notting Hill Carnival (27th – 28th Aug)

Notting Hill Carnival is the largest street festival in all of Europe and attracts millions of visitors from around the world each year.

The inclusive carnival encourages people of all cultures, faiths, and backgrounds to come together to celebrate Caribbean culture and traditions, with colourful costumes, steel bands and calypso music, non-stop dancing, and plenty of delicious street food.

The huge event takes place over two days. Sunday is family day, with a children’s parade and lots of family-friendly activities. While the bank holiday Monday is famous for its booze-fuelled street parties and features the main parade.

Man in colourful costume at Notting Hill Carnival London

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