Top 13 Party Ideas to Celebrate Summer in London
Summer is the time to slow down, soak up the sunshine, have a drink on the outdoor patio, and wave all your worries goodbye. It’s also a perfect time to get together and celebrate, even if there’s no reason for it!
London in summer turns into a party playground, so whether you’re looking to enjoy a cultural festivity, embark on a unique urban adventure, or simply soak up the sun with friends, there’s something for everyone here!
Check out our top 13 summer party ideas in London, and choose the perfect one for your group.
Let’s dive in!
🌞 Social Summer Party Ideas in London
Get social this summer in London. Whether it’s your colleagues or friends, the warm temperatures call for unforgettable celebrations!
1. A Rooftop Happy Hour
Elevate your summer evenings with a rooftop happy hour, where the cocktails come with a side of skyline!
Watching the sun setting over the city, sipping refreshing drinks, and enjoying the lazy vibe of a warm summer night are the perfect ingredients for a happy hour with your friends or coworkers. Head to one of the many rooftop venues in London to enjoy this unique summer party idea!
Our venue recommendations:
- West Terrace at Wagtail – With amazing views over St Paul’s, London Bridge, Monument, Tower Bridge, The Shard, and a range of drinks packages, Wagtail is a perfect one-stop for all corporate parties, including happy hour!
- AMANO Rooftop at AMANO Hotel Covent Garden – With a menu of international drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, spectacular views of London, and a DJ playing the freshest tunes, this venue is perfect for an EOD drink.
- SUSHISAMBA – Europe’s highest outdoor dining terrace provides the wow factor to any event, whether it’s a meetup with your clients or an after-work happy hour with your colleagues.
2. A Company Picnic
Escape the confines of the office and let the summer sun warm your face as you embrace the classic British summer picnic. Gather your colleagues, bring out the checkered blankets, and share an afternoon filled with laughter, delicious food, and team building games!
If you’re a small business or just planning a team building activity, going on a picnic in a public park is a great option. However, if you’re a larger group, consider hiring a dedicated space so you can enjoy a private spot with all the necessary amenities. Our favourite venues with outdoor spaces in London include the Shoreditch Gardens, The Artillery Garden at The HAC and the Event Area at Horsenden Hill Activity Centre!
3. Go on a Summer Retreat
Escape the city’s tempo and embark on a summer retreat that promises adventure and rejuvenation.
Just a short train or car ride from London, you can immerse yourself in England’s scenic beauty. Plan a day of workshops mixed with some fun, or just aim for a laid-back country escape from the office. Hire a venue that will supply you with food and drinks and all the amenities you may need for a stress-free party in the countryside.
Our venue suggestions:
- Woodberry Wetlands – This unique nature reserve located in Hackney offers a perfect space for organising a summer party in nature without the need for travel. Enjoy this wildlife haven, all while supporting the London Wildlife Trust’s conservation efforts.
- Glasshouse and Gardens at OmVed Gardens – This urban oasis blends a wild garden atmosphere with a versatile event space, ideal for gatherings that connect with nature. The extraordinary ambiance is ideal for offices looking for a unique summer party retreat venue.
🌞 Unique Summer Party Ideas in London
Step away from the ordinary and celebrate the summertime in a unique way. With the diversity of attractions, you can be sure to find something new and exciting for your next summer party.
4. A Private London Eye Experience
Chances are you’ve probably ridden the iconic London ferris wheel, but did you know you can book a private event there as well?
London Eye offers an exclusive use of one of its private pods for a 30-minute rotation. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the city while getting away from the heat of the summer (yes, the pods do have AC!).
To elevate the experience, you can add food and drinks packages, stay for two rotations or hire a personal guide.
5. Unique City Tour
Lace up your walking shoes, open your mind to the unexpected, and get ready to experience London in new and unexpected ways.
Although tourists flock to London all year long, and it’s definitely possible to tour the city during colder months, summer offers the perfect temperatures to walk around and become a tourist in your own city.
Here are some unique London tours:
- StreetHunt Games – These self-guided tours combine murder mystery games, escape rooms, and scavenger hunts and take you to places all around the capital.
- BUSTRONOME – Explore the city and dine like royalty in this unique bus tour of London. With its glass roof you can see all the iconic sights of London, all while eating a delicious meal.
- Find the TARDIS: Doctor Who’s London Experience – Discover locations featured in the iconic British series. Snap a photo with the Tardis, and watch out for any Daleks!
- Sherlock Holmes’ London Tour – Tour the city following in the footsteps of the world’s most famous detective.
- Royal Historic Pubs Walking Tour – Drink traditional British beer in four iconic hidden royal pubs while you learn about royal history.
- Jack The Ripper Tour – As the night falls over the capital, take a dare, and follow the (supposed) routes of the infamous murderer of the East End.
To cool down and regain some strength after touring the city, head to an outdoor beer garden for a refreshing pint and something to bite!
6. Christmas in July
Cool down the summer heat with a festive-themed party, and celebrate Christmas in July! Think mince pies, mulled wine (maybe ice-mulled wine), and holiday t-shirts. This playful twist on tradition allows you to experience the joy of Christmas without the frosty winter temperatures.
So don your Santa hat, sing carols in the summer sun, and let the magic of this unexpected celebration fill the summer air!
🌞 Cultural Summer Party Ideas in London
Offering a blend of entertainment and enrichment, these cultural offerings are perfect for celebrating summer in the city.
7. Enjoy the Open Air Theatre
Summer in London is a time when the city’s stages spill outdoors, offering special summertime open-air performances!
Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, situated in the beautiful Royal Park, is one of the largest open-air theatres in London, offering spectators both classic pieces and new productions. During the summer, Shakespeare’s Globe also opens up its Yard for outdoor plays, making sure your midsummer night’s dream comes true!
8. Attend a Music Festival
Feel the rhythm of summer in London by diving into its music festival scene.
Whether you’re a fan of electric beats or prefer a more classical experience, summer in London resonates with all kinds of music. The most popular festivals in London include:
- BST Hyde Park – Set in iconic Hyde Park, BST (British Summer Time) offers both paid and free acts, so you can be sure your summer will be filled with top acts from around the world.
- Kew The Music – For fans of softer sounds and lush greenery, in July, Kew Gardens open up their gates for a week of concerts.
- Wireless Festival – With multiple stages, epic performances, and a supercharged atmosphere, the Wireless Festival is a must-be summer destination for all fans of hip-hop and rap.
9. A Film Night at an Outdoor Cinema
Transform a regular movie night into an extraordinary summer experience as you watch a film under the stars! Whether you’re organising a unique team building event or just want to hang out with your colleagues, settle into a cosy deckchair or unfold a picnic blanket for an evening of film magic under the open sky.
When looking for an outdoor cinema in London, check out Adventure Cinema, the UK’s biggest open-air cinema tour, with different screening locations around the city. Similarly, Pop Up Screens rotate around London with their shows. Lastly, Rooftop Film Club, with locations in Peckham and Stratford, brings you city skylines, sunsets, and great films to enjoy a summer night in the city.
10. Have Fun at the Summer by the River Festival
Summer by the River Festival brings all that we love about summer to three locations by the Thames. Throughout the warmest months, enjoy musical performances, new acts, film and sports screenings (including Wimbledon matches!), good food, and delicious drinks.
Summer by the River Festival is all about beach festival vibes, but within the city. It’s a perfect space for groups of friends or coworkers looking to spend laid-back evenings in London! Make sure to check all the places taking part in this year’s celebrations and what kind of entertainment you can expect to plan the best summer party in the city!
🌞 Water-Bound Summer Party Ideas in London
Set sail for a summer adventure in the capital! Whether it’s a boat party or a peaceful visit to a beach, these water-bound experiences promise a refreshing escape.
11. Go to a Beach
We’re still talking about London, but even in this busy metropolis, it’s possible to enjoy some beach vibes! Leave your worries behind, bring out your inner beach bum, and make the most of the city’s creative take on a seaside getaway.
From the urban sands of Thames Beach and Bermondsey Beach to the charming Ruislip Lido, there are many places where you can enjoy beach vibes with the city skyline. Check out our recommendations:
- Fulham Beach Club at Neverland – This beach club-style lounge with two bars, a varied street food offering, a beach BBQ, and many photo ops will help you forget all about the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a beach day without leaving London!
- The London City Beach – Hidden between the highrises of Waterloo, the London City Beach welcomes everyone looking for a refreshing stop between the points in their agenda. With delegate packages available, it’s a perfect spot for a gateway from the office.
- The Beach Bar at The Montague on the Gardens – Once you step into this venue, you’ll forget you’re in London! With real sand, delicious cocktails, palm trees, BBQs, and garden games, this place is a perfect refuge for those seeking a break.
12. Party on Board
Summertime calls to sit by the water with a drink in hand and bask in the sun or enjoy the night sky. Thankfully, it’s not a problem in London. Set sail on the waves of summer with a party on board a boat cruising along the river Thames.
Charter a boat and sail by London’s landmarks as you feast on a delicious dinner or enjoy a refreshing drink. Many boats also offer dance parties, so if that kind of celebration floats your boat, it’s also possible!
Check out our top recommendations for boats in London:
- The Copper Quay – Socialise, dance, and make use of the fully stocked bar at this fantastic 70ft narrowboat. Whether it’s a daytime lunch or a late-night celebration, The Copper Quay will sail you into the party mood in style.
- Edwardian – Thames Luxury Charters – Celebrate your summer party aboard the Edwardian, which offers a luxurious venue for intimate gatherings. Enjoy breathtaking views on the open upper deck, impeccable service, and creative cuisine for a memorable summer party on the Thames.
- Floating Garden – Host your summer party at the Floating Garden, a serene and unique floating venue on Regent’s Canal near King’s Cross St. Pancras. Enjoy the lush garden space, cosy cabin, two rooftop decks, and towpath access for the ultimate summer party space in the heart of London.
13. Kayaking on the Thames
If you’re more into active summer parties, dive headfirst into a river adventure as you kayak along the iconic Thames. Paddle by London’s historical landmarks, and let the river breeze cool you down.
For an exciting twist, take to the water during the night! During the night kayak tour of the Thames, see the city’s landmarks lit up and enjoy the calmness of the river at dusk. Whether you’re seasoned paddlers or first-timers, kayaking offers an exciting opportunity for team building.
To wind down after the active day, head to a riverside restaurant to fuel up on delicious local cuisine!
🌞 Final Thoughts
From the heights of the London Eye to the banks of the Thames, summer in London is a season to be celebrated. And these party ideas will let you enjoy the best of the British summer and forget all about the occasional rain 😉
So grab a teammate or a friend, and embrace the warmth, the laughter, and the unforgettable moments that only a London summer can bring!
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FAQ
Can I organise a summer party in London on a budget?
Yes, organising a summer party in London on a budget is entirely possible. Opt for public parks or beaches for free venues, consider potluck picnics where everyone brings a dish, and look for happy hour deals or minimum spend policies for affordable options. You can also enjoy the free events organised in the city, such as Summer by the River Festival.
How do you throw a summer party in London?
To throw a summer party in London, start by selecting a theme or venue that fits your vision, whether it’s a rooftop bar, a garden, or along the Thames. Look at what events are organised in the city, whether they’re free or not, so you can add them as an entertainment option for your party. Check the weather forecast and have a backup plan for rain.
What are some unique summer party venues in London for outdoor events?
Our favourite summer party venues in London include the rooftop terrace at SUSHISAMBA, London Eye Private Pod, a cafe at the renovated Coal House building at Woodberry Wetlands, or The Beach Bar at The Montague on the Gardens. These venues are perfect for hosting summer parties in the city. There are many more to explore in London, so head to Tagvenue and choose the perfect one for you.
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