Rain or shine, England’s capital city is always alive and kicking. It’s potentially the UK’s equivalent of the city that never sleeps, with 8.1 million people bustling constantly. Today’s post is about embracing the sunshine, and we’re bringing you 6 things that you can do in London to make the most of a sunny day.
1. ZSL London Zoo
A delight for both children and adults, ZSL London Zoo is always worth a visit. Opened to the public in 1847, it houses almost 700 species and over 20,000 animals, making it one of the largest collections of animals in the United Kingdom. Based between Camden and Westminster, it’s famed for opening the first public aquarium, the first insect house, the first reptile house, and the first children’s zoo. Electrify a sunny day with a fun-filled visit to London’s zoo.
2. Visit a rooftop restaurant or bar
What better way to spend an afternoon or evening than basking in the sun on a rooftop? Granted, we definitely don’t get those dreamy California summers, but when the sun shows up, a rooftop is the perfect place to embrace it. With a multitude of bars and restaurants across the city, there are a wealth of foods and drinks to enjoy in style. Some of our favourites are Cupeper Roof Garden, Radio Rooftop Bar, Frank’s Café and Rumpus Room.
3. Take a trip to Buckingham Palace and witness Changing the Guard
On a trip to London, a visit to Buckingham Palace is almost essential. Acting as the current home of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, the State Rooms within are open to visitors every summer. The Changing of the Guard outside the grounds is another sight to see, with the Queen’s Horse and Foot Guards exiting the premises with impressive precision. The Royal Mews, the stables and carriage house of the British Royal Family, is also present at Buckingham Palace, which we have thorough tours of available here. If you’d like to add a little something extra to your trip (such as afternoon tea or helpful additional information), we also have multiple tours of the palace and the Changing the Guard to perfect your experience.
4. Indulge in London’s market scene
Almost central in location, London hosts multiple markets that are scattered throughout the city. With everything from food and flowers to clothes and accessories, everyone’s interests are covered. Whether you’re a confessed shopaholic or on the hunt for a different retail scene, London’s markets are definitely worth a visit. Some of our go-tos are Columbia Road Flower Market, Old Spitalfields Market, Covent Garden Market and the famed Camden Market.
5. Chelsea Physic Garden
Whether you’re exploring, relaxing or going for a leisurely walk, botanical gardens are always a sure bet in the sunshine. Situated near the river Thames, the Chelsea Physic Garden came to life in 1673 and to this day is the home for around 5,000 different plants. The garden hosts several events throughout the year, such as workshops, gardening courses and family activities. It can also be hired for weddings and garden parties, ensuring perfect photos with a stunning background. Alternatively, for a more casual approach, bring a blanket and a picnic and bask in the sunshine on a lazy Sunday.
6. Take a ride on the London Eye
Ensure that you get the very best view of England’s capital by going on the London Eye, especially during infrequent periods of nice weather when the view is truly spectacular. A must-see for tourists and locals alike, the glorious view showcases the Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and the river Thames. Only taking up 30 minutes of your time, the stunning introduction to London’s highlights is not one to be missed. You can also follow up by taking a stroll along the South Bank, in order to see Big Ben up close. If you can’t get enough of London’s finest from the London Eye, we have several extensive tours available to both enlighten and entertain!
Be sure to check out our selection of London tours!
