London, an enchanting tapestry of history and innovation, is a city that knows how to captivate its visitors. The summer months are particularly magical, with the city's parks and open spaces bursting into life and a plethora of unique activities on offer. Here are the top 10 unique things you should consider doing on your next visit to London in Summer 2023.
As you're exploring, check out Gesso’s self-guided audio walking tours, which you can experience at your own pace.
Explore the Street Art in Shoreditch:
In the heart of the East End, Shoreditch is an outdoor gallery where the walls tell a vibrant story. Wandering through the colourful maze of streets, you’ll encounter pieces from renowned artists like Banksy and Stik. This dynamic art scene is an expressive testament to London's creative spirit.
Visit the Sky Garden:
For a breath-taking bird's eye view of London, step into the Sky Garden. Housed in the 'Walkie Talkie' building, this urban oasis offers panoramic views, verdant greenery, and stunning architectural design.
Discover Hidden Gems at the Portobello Road Market:
Nestled in Notting Hill, the iconic Portobello Road Market offers a treasure trove of antiques, vibrant fashion, and enticing street food. Each vendor has a story, adding to the market's charm and uniqueness.
Experience Open-Air Theatre at Regent’s Park:
Make the most of London's summer at the Open Air Theatre in Regent's Park. With the twilight sky as a backdrop, there's no better place to immerse yourself in a performance while surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Explore the British Museum:
The British Museum is a must-visit location for anyone interested in human history and culture. It houses a vast collection of world art and artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles from the Parthenon in Athens, and the Egyptian mummies, among other things. It's truly one of the most comprehensive and impressive collections in the world, with artifacts from all continents, and entry is free, though some special exhibitions may carry a charge.
Attend a Live Concert at Somerset House:
Somerset House's Summer Series offers a remarkable musical experience in its grand neoclassical courtyard. With a diverse lineup of artists, it's the perfect place to soak in some culture on a warm summer evening.
Kew Gardens' Summer Festival:
At Kew Gardens, you can immerse yourself in art installations, scientific exhibits, and a world of botanical wonders. The Summer Festival adds an extra dash of magic, making it an absolute must-visit.
Roam Around Brixton Village and Market Row:
The multicultural heart of London, Brixton Village and Market Row, offers a culinary journey with food stalls serving dishes from around the world. Explore the independent shops for unique crafts, art, and fashion.
Attend a Performance at The Globe:
There's nothing quite like experiencing Shakespeare at the Globe Theatre. With the historical ambiance and brilliant performances, you’ll feel as though you've stepped back into Elizabethan London.
Explore the Victoria and Albert Museum:
The V&A is an ode to human creativity. Housing millions of objects, the museum presents a myriad of cultures, art forms, and eras, ensuring that there’s always something new and fascinating to discover.
Discover more local history with our audio walking tours, and see which nearby London neighborhoods you want to explore next!
Gesso was created for urban explorers who find joy in life's hidden gems. Find audio tours on the Gesso app, available via the App Store or Google Play, and share your London adventures with us @gesso.app on Instagram.