Summer is a fantastic time to be in London! The city comes alive with outdoor events, festivals, markets, parks, and cultural experiences that everyone can enjoy. For many of our international students, the summer break is the perfect opportunity to explore the city, discover new places, and make the most of your time in the UK.

To help you plan your summer, we’ve put together a week-by-week guide packed with exciting activities! Whether you’re looking to relax in the sunshine, spend time with friends, or discover something new, there’s plenty to help you make the most of your summer break.

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Things To Do in August

• Everyman on the Canal, free open-air cinema – King’s Cross: Don’t miss the last few weeks of the free outdoor film screenings at King’s Cross! 

• Ronnie Scott’s Street Party 2026: Making its annual return, Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club is bringing an afternoon of free live music to the streets of Soho. 

• Riverside Sessions | Southbank Centre Throughout August, the Southbank Centre hosts Riverside Sessions, a programme of free live music, summer events and live performances by the river.

• Canary Wharf Summer Screens: Head over to Canada Square Park and enjoy free screenings of popular films and major sporting events, including all the action from the Commonwealth Games!

• FIA Formula E World Championship Formula E is coming to London this summer! The Hankook E-Prix will be taking over The Excel London on the 15^th and 16^th August for a thrilling weekend of electric racing. Tickets start from £20.

• Salad Days Market: Browse the Salad Days Marker at The Ministry near London Bridge and Borough Market. Discover over 30 independent traders selling small handmade and vintage goods from all over the UK including live designer accessories, custom phone cases and personalised bag charms.

• Level Water Canary Wharf Pool Swim: Fancy taking on a swimming challenge? Head over to Sea Lanes in Canary Wharf and take on a distance of your choosing at a time that suits you. The event raises money for Level Water and goes towards funding swimming lessons for children with disabilities. Once you’re out of the water, you can stick around for live music, food and a fun community atmosphere.

• Summer Sounds Music Festival Coal Drops Yard – King’s Cross: There’s something for every music lover at the free Summer Sounds Musical festival this August. Expect a lineup of folk, jazz, soul classical and indie rock alongside live performances, every evening from 13^th– 23^rd August. 

• Roundhouse Comedy Festival August 2026: Laugh your way through August at the Roundhouse Comedy Festival, featuring a lineup of standup comedians and live comedy shows. Under 30’s can get access to £5 tickets.

• Notting Hill Carnival: Looking for plans this August Bank Holiday? Head over to Notting Hill Carnival and watch as West London comes alive with one of the world’s biggest street festivals. Celebrate Caribbean culture and community with vibrant parades, music and incredible food.

• Greenwich+Docklands International Festival 2026 |: Round off August with a mix of outdoor theatre, circus and dance at one of London’s free performing art festivals.