visit london in april

April in London: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

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With the arrival of spring in late March, London continues to heat up with a huge lineup of festive events and more pleasant weather throughout the month, making April one of the best times to plan a trip to the capital of the United Kingdom. London in April offers plenty of warm, spring days when you can enjoy the fresh spring blooms at outdoor events around the city, but make sure you're adequately prepared for the season since the weather can be quite volatile this time of year.

April Weather in London

London's weather in April may not yet feel like spring, but it's considerably warmer than it is during the winter.

• Average High:  55 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius)
• Average Low : 41 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius)

Throughout the month, visitors will be treated to an equal mixture of overcast, wet days, and days with sunny spring weather. Fortunately, despite the old saying about "April showers," this isn't the wettest time of year for London—which only gets about 1.6 inches of rain over the course of 16 days—but you will still likely encounter some sort of rain shower during your trip no matter when you visit this month.

What to Pack

Despite the arrival of spring flowers and warmer weather, you'll need to bring a variety of warm- and cold-weather attire to make sure you're adequately prepared for the volatile April climate in London. While you could probably get away with a T-shirt and a lightweight waterproof jacket this time of year, it's best to pack sweaters and extra layers, too. Also, remember to bring a small, easy-to-carry umbrella to bring out with you daily since you never know when a light shower may pop up this month.

London Events in April

Each April, London comes alive with a full lineup of festive outdoor events to celebrate the arrival of spring. From a celebration of coffee to kick off the month to the annual London Marathon at the end of April, there are plenty of great events worth exploring on your trip to the city this time of year. Don't forget to stop by Hyde Park to wish the Queen of England a happy birthday on April 21 (even though the official celebration takes place in June), and also be sure to catch a historic boat race on the River Thames in the early part of the month.

• London Marathon (late April):  This huge London sporting event attracts over 40,000 runners from across the globe. Starting in Greenwich Park, the 26.2-mile route passes some of London's most iconic sights including the Cutty Sark, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, and Buckingham Palace. Around 500,000 spectators line the route to cheer on the elite athletes as well as the amateur runners. 
• Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race (late March or early April):  This annual rowing race between students from Oxford and Cambridge Universities was first held in 1829 on the River Thames and now attracts crowds of around 250,000 people. The four-mile course starts near Putney Bridge and finishes near Chiswick Bridge. Many of the pubs that line the riverside put on special events for spectators. 
• Easter in London (Easter can fall in March or April):  Easter events in London range from traditional church services to Easter egg hunts to child-friendly activities at some of the biggest museums in the city.
• The London Coffee Festival (early April):  Celebrate London's coffee scene by attending this annual festival at the Truman Brewery in Brick Lane. Enjoy tastings, demonstrations, interactive workshops, live music, and coffee-infused cocktails.
• London Harness Horse Parade (Easter Monday):  Although not technically in London itself, this historic annual event at the South of England Showground in West Sussex features a parade that aims to encourage good welfare for the capital's working horses.
• Queen's Birthday (April 21):  The Queen's official birthday is celebrated on June 11 but her actual birthday is April 21. The occasion is marked by a 41-gun birthday salute in Hyde Park at midday followed by a 62-gun salute at the Tower of London at 1 p.m.
• St George's Day  (April 23):  Each year the patron saint of England is celebrated in Trafalgar Square with a festival inspired by 13th-century feasting.

April Travel Tips

• Despite the warmer weather, April is still considered the off-season for tourism in London. This means you'll likely find cheaper airfare and lower prices on accommodations around the city and an easier time booking dinner reservations or visiting popular attractions.
• If the Easter holiday falls in April, you can expect government offices and most local shops to be closed for Easter Sunday; additionally, tourists from across Europe typically flock to London for its big celebrations, so travel costs and crowd sizes are likely to increase the week of Easter.
• April is the perfect month to visit London's outdoor attractions like city farms, zoos, nature preserves, and public parks; be sure to stop by the London Wetland Centre for the spring arrival of a number of bird and plant species.
• The Changing of the Guard takes place daily at Buckingham Palace starting in April, and thanks to the smaller tourist crowds, you should be able to get a great view of the ceremony if you check it out this month.

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The 11 Best Things to Do in London in April (2024)

London is one of my favorite places to be in April . With highs of 16°C (61°F), the sun is finally starting to shine through the clouds as the city shrugs off its winter haze and welcomes the spring. 

Sure, with lows of 6°C (43°F) in the UK’s capital, you’ll need to pack some layers. There’s bound to be a few rainy days, too, but if you love long walks in the park, cherry blossoms, and flowering daffodils, then you’ll love exploring beloved green spaces like Kew Gardens and Richmond Park. 

The London Marathon takes to the streets in April, while the Changing of the Guard continues its march along The Mall. Be prepared with a few rainy-day alternatives , including the likes of the British Museum, and April is a brilliant time to visit London!

With so many things to see and do, you might not know where to begin. So I’ve compiled my list of the absolute best things to do in London in April for you. Stick to these fun and unique London bucket list recommendations and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring the UK’s gorgeous capital city during the spring season.

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Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The Top 11 Things to Do in London in April

1. stroll along kew gardens’ cherry walk.

Embrace the spring weather with a trip to Kew Gardens , one of my favorite places to visit in London in April. Kew Gardens is the capital’s most beloved horticultural attraction, and since its founding in 1840, this beautiful botanic garden has amassed a collection of some 8.3 million plants, fungi, herbs, trees, and flowers from around the world.

In April, the Japanese cherry blossoms are blooming pink along Kew Gardens’ famed Cherry Walk, while the daffodils are starting to spring into color. Beautiful bluebells are found across the gardens, and when the sun’s shining, it’s picnic weather! 

Kew Gardens are UNESCO World Heritage-listed, and I’d encourage you to take a guided tour of the greenhouses to learn more about the history and about the species you’ll find here. 

2. Watch the Changing of the Guard 

No trip to London is ever complete without visiting Buckingham Palace, where you might be lucky enough to catch King Charles III in residence (look out for the Royal Standard, which will be flying high if he is). 

You can’t go inside the palace in April, but you can line up along The Mall – the long avenue stretching through St. James’ Park – and witness one of London’s greatest pageantries. The Changing of the Guard is a glorious sight, as soldiers march along The Mall in full military uniforms, accompanied by a band, to change over their duties. 

The ceremony happens several times a week, generally starting at 10:45 am. Check the Changing of the Guard website for exact dates and times so you don’t miss out.

3. Take a Tour of the British Museum

This is England, so don’t forget that the weather isn’t always going to play ball with you. It will rain at some point, in which case, you’ll need a rainy-day contingency plan. When the clouds burst, I recommend heading straight for the British Museum , where you can spend the entire day browsing through London’s foremost museum and still barely scratch the surface. 

With over 8 million objects on display, or stored within its vaults, the British Museum is the largest in the world. It’s also one of the oldest, with a history dating back to 1753. Inside, you’ll find artifacts like the Elgin Marbles (ownership of which is still being debated) and the Rosetta Stone. 

The collections span several million years of history, so you might want to take a tour to find out more.

4. Celebrate Easter at St. Paul’s Cathedral

Easter celebrations typically fall either during or just before April, and if you’d love to experience the festivities, there’s no better place to visit than St. Paul’s Cathedral . 

This iconic London landmark, with its towering dome and steeples, was designed by Sir Christopher Wren in the 17th century after the Great Fire of London decimated the capital. 

You can tour through St. Paul’s Cathedral (book your tickets in advance to skip the queue), taking in the magnificent frescoes and religious artwork that line the interior of the dome. 

Climb the 528 steep steps that lead to the top of the dome, and you’ll enjoy wonderful views of the capital. Check the cathedral’s events schedule for special ceremonies, concerts, and services over the Lent and Easter periods. 

5. See the Deer at Richmond Park

Richmond Park in southwest London is one of the most glorious places to visit in London in April. Home to some 955 hectares of parklands and gardens, Richmond Park was created as a hunting ground for King Charles I in the 17th century. 

Luckily, Richmond Park is no longer the sole domain of royalty, and in April, you’ll love watching herds of deer roaming through the mist in the early mornings. Head to the Isabella Plantation to see the best of Richmond Park in bloom as the garden comes to life as the seasons change. 

6. Tackle the Maze at Hampton Court Palace

While you’re in London’s southwestern suburbs, you can go into Hampton Court Palace , the former residence of Henry VIII, England’s most notorious monarch. Construction of the lavish palace began in 1514, and successive monarchs left their mark on the grand stately rooms and the gardens.

In the 1700s, William III decided that the place needed a maze, and so his gardeners grew an elaborate labyrinthine made from hedgerows. The maze still stands today and is the oldest hedge maze in the country. 

As spring arrives, April is the perfect time to wind your way through the hedgerows, while the surrounding gardens and nearby Bushy Park are beautiful this time of the year. 

7. Watch (or Run!) the London Marathon

One of the most popular sporting events in London in April is the London Marathon , which sees upwards of 48,000 people competing across the 26-mile-long course. First run in 1981, the London Marathon sees tens of thousands more spectators cheering the runners along the route.

The London Marathon generally starts in Greenwich, then winds its way along the River Thames to finish on The Mall, just in front of Buckingham Palace. If you’re in London in April, join the crowds and cheer on the runners. 

If you’re an avid runner yourself, you’ll need to secure a spot in the marathon in advance, but be warned, it’s notoriously difficult to do so, given the race’s popularity. 

8. Join the Vaisakhi Festival in Trafalgar Square

Embrace London’s multicultural communities by joining the celebrations at Trafalgar Square’s annual Vaisakhi Festival. One of the most fun April events in London, the Vaisakhi Festival marks the Sikh New Year, which officially takes place on the 13th and 14th of April. 

Trafalgar Square is taken over by Sikh, and other Indian food stands, while pop-up art galleries fill the square, and Sikh musicians and dance acts entertain the crowds. It’s a fantastic way to experience more of London’s diversity. 

9. Catch a Show in the West End

In the evenings, the weather in April in London isn’t always the warmest, but head to the West End, and you can spend a brilliant night indoors, enjoying a high-end musical or theater production.

London’s West End is world-famous, and it’s home to renowned venues like the London Palladium , Palace Theatre , and the London Coliseum . Shows are ever-changing, but some West End staples that have a more permanent base in London include the likes of ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,” “Les Misérables,” and the “Book of Mormon.” 

10. Enjoy a Sunday Roast at the Pub

If you’re visiting London in April, then it’s the perfect season for a pub lunch. On Sundays, you’ll want to enjoy a classic British “roast,” consisting of your choice of roasted meat (or a veggie option, like a veggie Wellington), all of the trimmings, and lashings of gravy!

The Sunday Roast is a great tradition, and there’s many a pub to dip your feet into in London. The Guinea in Mayfair dates back to the 17th century, for example, The Churchill Arms in Kensington is a classic, and the Marquess of Anglesey does a roaring roast in Covent Garden. 

If you’re not in London on a Sunday, don’t worry because there’s always a great selection of other pub classics to try throughout the week, including fish and chips and steak and ale pies. 

11. Eat at Borough Market

The freshest produce starts to arrive in London in April, and there’s no better place to sample the capital’s food than Borough Market . Located around London Bridge, Borough Market has been in operation for centuries, and today, it’s best known for its excellent food stalls. 

With well over a hundred stalls to choose from, you’ll find artisanal cheese shops stocking the best English cheddars, vendors selling cakes and pastries, and Italian delis and Spanish charcuteries. Best of all is the incredible range of international dishes available, cooking everything from bao buns to mac and cheese. 

There you have it! The 11 best things to do in London in April. What are your favorite things to do while visiting London in April?

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About the Author:

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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Guide to London’s coolest places to visit

Things To Do

London In April: Embrace The Blossoming Beauty Of The Capital

Last Updated on 22 July, 2023

Planning a visit to London in April? You’ve chosen a splendid time to experience London as it awakens from winter and embraces the vibrant colors of spring. April in London brings milder temperatures, blooming flowers, and a lively atmosphere.

In this post, we will explore the weather conditions in London during April, provide essential packing tips, suggest exciting things to do, highlight noteworthy events, and offer guidance on getting around the city. Get ready to embrace the blossoming beauty and make the most of your trip to London in April!

Weather in London in April

This is one of the best times to visit London . April in London marks the transition to spring , with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. The average daytime temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F), although it can vary throughout the month. It’s a refreshing time when the city begins to bloom with colorful flowers and blossoming trees.

What to Wear in April | April Packing List Essentials

When packing for London in April , it’s important to have versatile clothing options that accommodate the changing weather. Here are some key items to include in your packing list:

• Layers: Pack a variety of clothing layers to adapt to the changing temperatures throughout the day. This may include t-shirts , lightweight sweaters , cardigans, and a light jacket.
• Trousers and Jeans: Opt for trousers or jeans made from breathable fabrics. These will provide comfort and versatility for exploring the city.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Choose comfortable shoes for London suitable for walking, as you’ll likely be exploring various attractions and parks. Opt for closed-toe shoes or sneakers that provide support and cushioning.
• Rain Jacket or Umbrella: London’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to pack a lightweight rain jacket or carry a compact umbrella to stay prepared for occasional showers.
• Accessories: Don’t forget to bring accessories such as sunglasses , a hat to protect against the sun, and a lightweight scarf for cooler mornings or evenings.

Things to Do in London in April

• Visit Royal Parks: Explore London’s Royal Parks , such as Hyde Park , Regent’s Park , and St. James’s Park , which come alive with colorful blossoms during April. Enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and the serene beauty of the gardens.
• Discover Kew Gardens : Immerse yourself in the botanical paradise of Kew Gardens. Marvel at the vibrant displays of flowers, visit the glasshouses, and explore the extensive grounds of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Take a Thames River Cruise : Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the River Thames and take in the iconic sights of London from a different perspective. Admire landmarks such as the Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye.
• Explore Markets: Experience the lively atmosphere of London’s markets. From the eclectic offerings of Camden Market to the food stalls of Borough Market , you’ll find a wide array of goods, street food, and unique treasures.
• Visit Historical Sites : Delve into London’s rich history by visiting iconic sites such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum. Immerse yourself in the city’s heritage and architectural wonders.

London Events in April

• London Marathon : Join the excitement of the London Marathon, one of the world’s most renowned long-distance races. Cheer on the runners as they navigate the iconic course through the city’s streets.
• St. George’s Day: Celebrate St. George’s Day, the patron saint of England, on April 23rd. Witness parades, traditional performances, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
• Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre: Experience a Shakespearean play at the reconstructed Globe Theatre. Enjoy performances of the Bard’s works in a unique and authentic setting.
• Chelsea Flower Show: Immerse yourself in the floral paradise of the Chelsea Flower Show. Marvel at the stunning displays, gather gardening inspiration, and admire the creative designs.
• Museums at Night: Discover London’s museums after dark during the Museums at Night event. Experience special exhibitions, late-night openings, and unique events held in various cultural institutions.

Getting Around in London

London offers a comprehensive transportation network to help you navigate the city with ease. Here are some popular modes of transportation:

• London Underground (Tube): The Underground is a convenient and efficient way to travel within London. With its extensive network of lines and stations, it provides easy access to various parts of the city.
• Buses: London buses cover a vast network and offer a scenic way to explore the city. Consider using a contactless payment method or an Oyster card for seamless travel.
• Cycling: London has dedicated cycling lanes and bike-sharing schemes available. Rent a bike and enjoy cycling around the city, taking advantage of the bike-friendly routes.
• Black Cabs: London’s black taxis are a traditional and reliable mode of transport. Hail a cab on the street or find one at designated taxi ranks.
• Walking: Many of London’s attractions are within walking distance of each other. Enjoy the pleasant weather and explore the city’s streets and parks on foot.

London in April offers a delightful mix of springtime beauty, cultural experiences, and exciting events. With this guide, you’re now equipped with essential information to make the most of your visit. So pack your versatile clothing, plan your itinerary , and get ready to embrace the blossoming beauty of London in April!

London in April is a captivating destination that invites you to embrace the arrival of spring and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city. With milder temperatures, blooming flowers, and a range of activities and events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re exploring the parks, visiting historical sites, or immersing yourself in cultural events, London offers a memorable springtime experience. Pack your essentials, plan your adventures , and get ready to create unforgettable memories in the capital!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

• Is April a good time to visit London?

Yes, April is a wonderful time to visit London. The weather is milder, and the city comes alive with blooming flowers and a lively atmosphere.

• What should I pack for London in April?

Pack versatile clothing for layering, including t-shirts, lightweight sweaters, a light jacket, trousers or jeans, comfortable walking shoes, a rain jacket or umbrella, and accessories like sunglasses and a hat.

• What are some popular events in London during April?

Some popular events in April include the London Marathon, St. George’s Day celebrations, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre performances, the Chelsea Flower Show, and the Museums at Night event.

• How do I get around London?

London offers a comprehensive transportation system, including the Underground (Tube), buses, cycling options, black cabs, and walking.

• What are some must-visit attractions in London?

Some must-visit attractions include the Royal Parks, Kew Gardens, historical sites like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace, and the vibrant markets.

Read All London Seasonal Guides:

• London In Spring
• London In Summer
• London In Autumn
• London In Winter

London Monthly Guide:

January  |  February   |  March  |  April  |  May  |  June  |  July  |  August  |  September  |  October   |  November  |   December

My name is Bianca and welcome to my local guide of London's Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea. Everything you need to know about exploring London in addition to the coolest hangouts and Instagrammable spots.

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Escape to Britain

England, Scotland, & Wales Travel and Culture Blog

London · April 3, 2019

What’s On? Your Go-To Guide for London in April

Last Updated on April 3, 2019 by Sophie Nadeau

The sun is (mostly) shining, the crowds are fewer, and thanks to a late March hour change, the days feel longer. Other reasons to head to the UK capital during mid-Spring include lower hotel prices, everything actually being open, and a plethora of seasonal events. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in London in April.

London weather in April

If I were to sum up April weather in the UK capital in just two words, it would be ‘April Showers’. From hail to sunshine to overcast cloudy skies and back to full sun complete with blue skies: all of these meteorological phenomena can happen in the space of just a couple of hours! The average temperature for the month is in the low teens Celsisus, so while it’s not balmy, it’s not really that cold either!

How to pack and what to wear in London during April

As the weather can be temperamental, your best bet is to wear layers and pack a capsule wardrobe that you can easily style on a day by day basis, entirely weather dependent. Included should be a scarf, cardigans, tights, and other layers to compensate for the fact that the weather can be anything from single digits to the mid-twenties during your London trip!

A warm (ish) jacket: Don’t be fooled by the longer days and increased sunshine! London weather in April is erratic at best and even snow is not unheard of. As such, be sure to predominantly pack layers and be sure to bring a warm jacket for when the temperature drops in the evenings.

Boots: If you want to look trendy but are also looking to stay dry and warm, then I couldn’t recommend packing a pair of chunky heeled boots enough. Easy to pair with jeans, you can also dress them up in the evening with a lovely dress. If your boots aren’t that comfortable or waterproof, be sure to bring an easy to walk in pair of shoes. After all, the city is best explored on foot

A raincoat/ umbrella: If you pack just one thing in your suitcase, it should be some form of waterproof! Both raincoats and umbrellas have their merits; whereas raincoats will allow you to duck in and out of shops easily, umbrellas are obviously better if you’re looking to wear a wool coat!

What’s on? Events and activities in London in April

Cherry blossom season: Though the season for spring blossom often starts towards the end of March, April is easily the best time to visit London if you want to enjoy the best of the fluffiest pink flowers. Magnolias tend to be almost over by the time April rolls around, but blossom peaks around mid-April, while wisteria tends to begin blooming around the end of April.

Watch the annual Oxford vs Cambridge Boat Races: An annual event which has taken place each year, the first men’s boat race took place in 1829 while the first women’s race took place in 1927. Today, the race is watched by 250,000 people along the riverbanks and the best places to watch the race can be found her e.

Easter in London: Though Easter weekend sometimes falls in March, in 2019 it will be on the 19  to 22 April.  What this means when it comes to the UK capital is a bank holiday on the Monday following Easter Sunday, and that many stores and shops will be closed for the weekend. Throughout the city, a plethora of events are taking place, including egg hunts and Easter-themed afternoon teas.

London Marathon: Easily one of the most famous marathon events in the world, you won’t be able to get a place running at the last minute. Instead, runners are required to sign up a few weeks after the event for the following year’s run. Getting a place is dependant on a competitive ballot draw and so the best way to enjoy the marathon is to watch from the sidelines! This year’s London marathon takes place on the 28th of April.

Explore Greenwich’s Painted Hall: Greenwich can be found to the East of London, in an area of the city that’s filled with green space, many a museum, and even the Cutty Sark ship, one of the last tea clippers to be built during the latter half of the 20th-century. And now, after a several year restoration project, the Painted Hall of the Naval College is once more open to the public to enjoy.

Uncover the hidden gems of London this April

Meander the Mews Streets:  For more hidden gems in the UK capital, check out this guide to the best of  unusual and offbeat London . Some of the best mews streets to meander along (and in which to enjoy spring blooms) include the  Love Actually  filming location, St Luke’s Mews, and the ‘Instagram-famous’ Kynance Mews.

Victoria Tower Gardens: Hidden beside the houses of parliament, the Victoria Tower Gardens is a green space that many pass by on a daily basis and yet few venture into. Located close to the Houses of Parliament, this free to visit public green space was created thanks to a grant from WH Smith supplemented by Parliament during the 19th-century.

Visit the Jewel Tower: Hidden beside the Houses of Parliament and featured frequently as the backdrop for late night politics shows, the Jewel Tower dates back to the 14th-century and was once used to house the personal treasure of Edward III. Today, the Jewel House is owned and managed by English Heritage. Free to visit for members, if you’re not a member you can still pay a small fee to venture inside.

St Dustan in the East: Now that Spring is finally upon us and summer is just around the corner, there is perhaps no better time to head to one of the city’s prettiest green spaces. While everyone has heard of Hyde Park and Regent’s Park, smaller green spaces like St Dunstan in the East remain as hidden gems.

Enjoyed reading about the best things to do in London in April? Pin it now, read it again later:

About Sophie Nadeau

Sophie Nadeau is a travel, history, and culture writer based in the UK. With a love of all things photography-related, castles, and sweet food, she runs her popular blog, solosophie.com when she's not chasing after a sunset or hiking in the English countryside.

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19 Amazing Things To Do In London in April

Last Updated on April 15, 2024 by Louise

Visiting London in April? April is a brilliant time to explore this amazing city. Spring is in the air and there are plenty of outdoor activities from events in the Royal parks to celebrations for St George’s Day. Take a boat trip (or a hot tub trip!) on the River Thames or watch the London marathon runners.

Of course there’s always a danger of April showers which means indoor activities are just as important and there are plenty of those too. Visit the lego brick or Disney exhbition, attend an art gallery or visit one of London’s many museums. As the beginning two weeks of the month are the Easter school holidays, there’s plenty going on for families too.

In this guide, find out 19 of the best things to do in London in April 2024.

Table of Contents

Cheer on the Runners in the London Marathon

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The London Marathon is one of the most famous marathons in the world, attracting elite athletes and recreational runners alike. Cheer on the runners  through the streets of London, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace. Look out for celebrities and fun costumes.

Find more information on the official London Marathon website: Virgin Money London Marathon

Immerse Yourself in Lego at The Art of Brick

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A must for lego fans!  The Art of Brick exhibition is in London throughout the month of April..

There are more than 150 works of art made up of over a million lego bricks. Impressively it includes lego recreations of some world famous artworks including Michelangelo’s David, Van Gogh’s Starry Night and Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. There’s also a 6-metre-long reproduction of a Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton

It takes place at the boiler house in Brick Lane. Buy tickets here .

We Were There Family Day at HMS Belfast

Veterans and other volunteers will be on HMS Belfast between 11am and 3pm on 5th April to share memories of life at sea on the vessel as part of a family day. Hear the personal stories of IWM’s veterans and eyewitnesses who experienced confilct first hand.

Suitable for kids aged 7 plus, it’s included as part of the entry price to HMS Belfast.

Celebrate the Feast of St. George in Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square is hosting the Feast of St. George celebration on Sunday 21st April between 12pm and 6pm.

Enjoy live music, including traditional and contemporary acts on the main stage. Take place in family activites, watch roaming street performers, browse market stalls and taste the food at the English street food market. You may even see a dragon or two!

Find more information on the offical webpage of the Feast of St George

Witness the Majestic Changing of the Guard Ceremony

As the weather is getting warmer, April is a good month to go and see one of London’s most famous traditions, the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Held outside Buckingham Palace, the ritual showcases the British monarchy’s ceremonial guards.

It takes place at 11:00 AM on set days in April. Get there early to secure a prime viewing spot along the palace gates or the nearby Victoria Memorial.

Challenge Family and Friends to A Free Game of Minigolf

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This vibrant minigolf course designed by artists Craig Redman & Karl Maier is located at Canary Wharf from April until 29th September. It’s free and you can just drop by between 12pm and 6pm for a game. Clubs and balls are provided.

Why not combine your trip with a visit to the free Museum of Docklands while you’re in the area.

Attend the London Coffee Festival

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Love coffee? Then you’ll love the London Coffee Festival. Taking place in Truman’s Brewery in Brick Lane it’s a chance to celebrates the city’s vibrant coffee culture with tastings, workshops, demonstrations, and competitions.

Also why not sign up for Brew school , an exciting 45 experience which takes you on a journey through the world of coffee.

Check out the London Coffee Festival for more information about the event.

See the Cute Exhibition at Somerset House

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April is your last chance to visit the Cute exhibition at Somerset House (finishing on 14th April). 

Cute explores the power of cuteness in contemporary culture. Contemporary artworks and cultural phenomena such as music, fashion, toys, video games and social media examine the world’s embrace of cute culture.

It’s a must for Hello Kitty fans as part of the exhibition is dedicated to the very cute fictional character created by Yuko Shimizu. There’s a plushie section from the collection of super fan Amy-Louise Allen who has over 50,000 pieces of Hello Kitty merchandise, and an immersive Hello Kitty disco, with a giant mirror ball.

Enjoy the Magic of Disney

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The Disney100 – The Exhibition at the London Excel is running throughout April and is a must for Disney fans.

Discover 100 years of Disney’s history. The exhibition is showcasing 250 rarely-seen artefacts and works of art, costumes, props, and fascinating memorabilia.

Book your tickets

Visit a Museum

The weather in April in London can be wet and cloudy so it’s a good idea to have a few indoor activities prepared. There are numerous amazing museums in London and a lot of them (including the British Museum , the Science Museum , the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum)  are free. It’s worth putting a few on your list of things to do.

The school Easter holidays fall in the first two weeks of April in 2024 which means there are plenty of events happening for families. Here’s a round up of some of the events happening at London museums:

London Museum of Docklands – this interesting museum is based in Canary Wharf, East London and tells the stories about London’s one bustling docklands. Entry is free although some exhibitions may cost extra. There is plenty going on during April. Kids will love the Tat Trail and Pom Pom making . April is the last chance to see the Fashion CIty exhibition , showing how Jewish designers in London helped shaped global style.

Imperial War Museum – it’s your last chance to see the spies, lies and deception exhibition . Finishing on 14th April entry to the exhibition (and the museum) is free. The must-see exhibition explores deception and espionage from the First World War to the present day.

The Royal Airforce Museum – this brilliant museum is free (donations are welcome and book your free tickets in advance). It tells the story of the history of the RAF from the first ideas of flight to today’s leading tech. Plus, there are many beautiful airplanes and helicopters to see. This Easter school holidays, the museum is hosting a bubbly maths show and Easter have a go activities .

London Transport Museum – the lost and found exhibiton takes place during the Easter school holidays from 2nd to 18th April.

Explore a London Park

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The days are getting longer and the cherry blossoms are out. April is the perfect month to start exploring a London park.

Greenwich Park – is the home to one of the best collection of cherry trees in London making it the best place to see cherry blossom in the captial during April.

Hyde Park – kids will love the spring discovery days happening between 2nd and 4th April. Drop in anytime between 11am and 3pm for activities including pond dipping, making a seed ball, storytelling and interactive games. Adults will enjoy the Hidden Tours of Hyde Park, which takes place on 19th April. Discover the history of Hyde Park like never before with an expert guide.

Richmond Park , Bushy Park and  Regent’s Park are all hosing nature roadshows for the kids over the Easter school holidays. The free drop in activities include a scavenger hunt, nature craft and interactive games.

St James’ Park has a blooms with a view walking tour on 12th April. Join Royal Parks Apprentice graduate and writer Fiona Kirkwood for a tour full of fascinating facts and personal stories.

Visit Kew Gardens

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Spring has arrived which makes April a brilliant month to stroll around Kew Gardens. 

Until the 14th April, you can awaken your senses on a visit to the gardens with the Sounds of Blossom event. Kew have collaborated with the Royal College of Music. Students from the college have composed new music, commissioned by Kew to bring the spring blooms to life. These new compositions will be played around the Gardens in Kew’s blossom hotspots. 

Young kids who love the TV series Bluey will jump at chance to visit Kew Garden during the school Easter hols! A a variety of fun outdoor activities and games are taking place which have been inspired by fan-favourite episodes of the show. Kids can learn about the plants and wildlife found at Kew and in Bluey’s native Australia along the way.  Find out more

Take a Tour or Watch a Play at Shakespeare’s Globe

There’s tons going on the Globe, from a modern take on Shakespeare’s plays to spooky tours.

Romeo and Juliet is playing until 14th April. Watch a fast-paced, 90-minute version which has been created especially for young people and is the perfect introduction to Shakespeare for everyone. The most famous story about teenagers ever told is set in 2024: their intense passion lights up a world of increasing violence between rival gangs, the Montagues and the Capulets.

In addition there are a wide variety of tours of the Globe including a Pride themed tour which is running from 3rd April and a family friendly Ghost and Goul tour .

There are also plenty of family events for kids over the Easter holidays. They include Macbeth workshops and family sword fighting. Find out more here . 

Explore the Tunnels at the Postal Museum

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From April, the Postal Museum will be hosting after hours Tunnel Walk tours on select Tuesday, Friday and Saturday evenings every month

Expert guides offer visitors a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with the historic Mail Rail tunnels. Hear about the staff who built, operated and maintained the underground railway over the course of 100 years – from its construction in the early 1900s, through to the eventual closure in 2003.

The Postal Museum is excellent to visit in the daytime too especially with the kids. Ride on a mail train and take part in craft activities over the Easter holidays.

Visit an Art Gallery 

London is also home to many amazing art museums, again many of them are free. If you are in London on a wet and rainy day, why not check one of them out. Here is a round up of some of the best art galleries and what is going on in April.

National Art Gallery   – Located in Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery houses a rich collection of European paintings dating from the 13th to the 19th centuries. It features masterpieces by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, and Rembrandt. Why not take a free guided tour – they take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3pm to 4pm.

Tate Modern –  Situated in a former power station on the banks of the River Thames, Tate Modern is one of the world’s most visited contemporary art galleries. It houses an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art from around the world, including works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney. April is the last chance to see the Capturing the moment exhibition – a journey through painting and photography. The gallery is also currently hosting a Yoko Ono exhibition .

Tate Britain – Renowned for its collection of British art from the 16th century to the present day. Visitors can explore artworks by renowned artists such as J.M.W. Turner, William Blake, John Constable, Francis Bacon and David Hockney. April is the last chance to see the Women in Revolt Exhibition. 

Saatchi Gallery – Founded by Charles Saatchi, this contemporary art gallery in Chelsea showcases cutting-edge works by emerging artists from around the world. During April you can see the Standing on the Shoulders of Giants exhibition which is a celebration of Dutch female artists who have helped reshape the narrative for current and future generations of women artists.

Take Part in an Easter Egg Fun

Easter is early this year, but the celebrations are continuing throughout the school Easter holidays for kids with Easter egg trails and Easter themed games and crafts. Here is a round up of what’s on:

The Easter Lint Gold Bunny Hunt takes place at the beautiful Hampton Court between 23rd March and 14th April.

The Easter egg hunt at London Zoo – Find the hidden eggs of all sizes and colours around the zoo. The eggs come from all kinds of egg-laying creatures including birds, reptiles, fish and butterflies. Track them down and solve the clues which will lead you to the secret golden egg. There are Easter crafts too. Runs until April 14.

Ham House is a 17th century Jacobean mansion set in formal gardens on the banks of the Thames. Over the Easter school holidays (until 14th April), kids can take part in games around the laws, kitchen garden, courtyard and terrace. Competitors will be awarded a chocolate egg at the end.

Take a Hot Tub boat on The Thames

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If you’re looking for a unique experience, there’s nothing like enjoy a relaxing hot tub while sailing out on the River Thames.

Boats sail from Canary Wharf and you can choose from sailing your own boat (no experience necessary) or embarking on a guided tour!

The water is heated to a toasty 38 degrees so you can go out in any weather, even if there are April showers. 

Find out more at Skuna boats .

Take a Terrible Thames Boat Tour

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The Horrible History, Terrible Thames Tours are boat rides on the River Thames aimed at families with kids. They launch again in time for the kids’ school Easter holidays during April.

Climb aboard and prepare to hear the horrible history one of the most famous rivers in the world. See the sites along the River Thames and hear fun, educational facts.

Ideal for the whole family – even the oldies will probably learn stuff they didn’t already know.

Book your ticket here.

Embark on an After Hour Tour

With the weather warming up and sunset taking place around 8 to 8.30pm it’s a good month to do an evening tour. There are plenty of tours taking place.

The Ghastly Ghost tour featured above is a 2 hour walking tour which starts around 8pm. Sneak through the dark streets of London and hear spooky stories of the ghouls, ghosts and specters that creep through the city’s back alleys after dusk. Enjoy a spine-tingling walk from the Tower of London to St. Paul’s.

Other after hour tours include: 

The Ghost Bus Tours : This theatrical tour takes you around London’s haunted sites aboard a classic 1960s Routemaster bus. Expect spooky tales and eerie sightings as you pass iconic London landmarks.

Jack the Ripper Tour : Led by expert guides, this tour retraces the steps of the notorious serial killer, visiting key sites associated with the murders and providing insight into the investigation and theories surrounding the case.

Haunted Pub Tour : Combine a historical pub visit with ghostly tales on a themed tour. Led by experienced guides, these tours visit haunted pubs and taverns, sharing spine-chilling stories of murders, ghosts, and other supernatural occurrences associated with each location.

What’s the Weather Like In April in London

Weather in London in April can be quite variable. Typically, it starts to warm up compared to the winter months, but it can still be quite chilly, especially earlier in the month.

Average temperatures in April range from lows of around 4-6°C (39-43°F) to highs of around 11-15°C (52-59°F). However, temperatures can occasionally drop lower or rise higher than these averages.

April tends to be a relatively wet month in London, with moderate rainfall expected throughout. Be prepared for showers and overcast skies, though there can be sunny days as well.

Days start getting longer in April, with increasing daylight hours. However, London weather can still be quite cloudy, and you might not see as much sunshine as in the summer months.

Wind: Wind speeds can vary, but it’s not typically a major concern unless there’s a specific weather event.

Clothing: It’s wise to dress in layers and bring an umbrella or raincoat, as showers are common. It’s also a good idea to have a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.

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Top Things to Do in London in April

As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, there’s a shift in the London air that brings about a plethora of exciting events to enjoy all across the city. From a coffee festival to chasing cherry blossoms in the city’s lush green parks, here are our top picks on where to go and what to do in London this April.

(WA=Wheelchair Accessible)

Get caffeinated at The London Coffee Festival

If you consider yourself a bit of a coffee aficionado, then London Coffee Festival will certainly be your cup of tea (ahem, or coffee). This three day event celebrates the city’s thriving coffee scene with over 250 delectable food and artisan coffee stands dotted throughout the venue. Delve into the roasting process of some of London’s most popular suppliers, or learn more about the intricate skill of coffee art. If you want a break from the brew, there’s also live bands on the music stage and foodie experiences, from wine and food pairings to interactive workshops led by professionals.

The London Coffee Festival | Spitalfields | WA | 11th – 14th of April 2024

Sounds of Blossom at Kew Gardens

Located in southwest London, Kew Gardens has the largest botanical collection in the world, boasting a captivating array of plant life and fauna across its sprawling 300-acre expanse. Founded in the 18th century and honoured as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it showcases diverse landscapes, towering arboretums, and captivating glasshouses brimming with flora from around the world. Sounds of Blossom was made in collaboration with students from the Royal College of Music and promises to awaken your senses as you wander through the gardens, listening to original compositions that were commissioned by Kew Gardens and inspired by the season of spring.

Kew Gardens | Kew | WA | 23rd March – 14th April 2024

Sip on a cocktail at an iconic London rooftop bar

There are fewer ways Londoners like to see in the springtime sunshine than by enjoying a tipple or two on an iconic London rooftop bar. Sip on classic cocktails with the city skyline as your backdrop at  Decimo at The Standard , or enjoy a drink in a Winter Igloo at Tobacco Dock’s Skylight bar . If you’re after tasty tapas and excellent views of St Paul’s, Madison bar is the place to go. A few other favourites are Queen of Hoxton in Shoreditch, Smiths of Smithfield in Farringdon, and Bussey Rooftop Bar in Peckham.

Chase cherry blossoms throughout the city

As spring emerges and the days get longer, an explosion of pink sweeps through the city, and before we know it, cherry blossom season is well and truly upon us. These beautiful blossom trees add an extra sprinkle of prettiness to an already picture-perfect city and there are plenty of places to see them. Here are a handful of our favourite spots to while away the day and enjoy the blossom trees covering all corners of the city: Mount Street Gardens in Mayfair, St James’s Park, Paddington’s Sussex Gardens, Regent’s Park, Primrose Hill, Southwark Cathedral, Greenwich Park, Cherry Tree Avenue, Vallance Road and last but not least, Kyoto Garden in Holland Park.

View from late March until early May

Immerse yourself in a new kind of world at The London Games Festival Marathon 

Celebrate the vibrant gaming culture in London at the London Games Festival, where the very best video games and interactive entertainment is showcased via an eclectic programme of activities across the city. Expect talks about the art of game design, profiles on some of the most exciting games in the industry, and even learn to make your very own gaming app without needing to learn how to code.

London Games Festival | Multiple Locations | 9th – 25th of April 2024

Spectate and support at The London Marathon

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Jessica Dellow is an East Londoner who loves to travel the world and eat her way around the city. When she's not eating, cooking or hanging out in the local pub, you’ll probably find her walking one of her BorrowMyDoggy dogs in Victoria Park with a coffee in hand.

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London Weather in April: Best Things to Do & What to Wear

• In London by month TRAVEL GUIDE

April is one of our favourite times in which to visit London. With the weather picking up, temperatures on the rise and more life about the place, it’s a fun destination for spring. And there is plenty to do! Check out our guide to London weather in April , and what you can expect if you visit the capital in spring.

• 1 Visiting London in early or late April – What’s best?
• 2 London weather in April
• 3 What clothes to wear in London in April
• 4 Things to do in London in April
• 5 Free things to do in London in April
• 6 Things to do in London in April with kids
• 7 Romantic Things to do in London in April
• 8 Cheap Flights to London in April
• 9 London Hotels in Spring
• 10 Frequently Asked Questions
• 11 Conclusion

Visiting London in early or late April – What’s best?

Tickets sell out fast in London in april: check availability now >>

April is a great month during which to visit London because the weather is starting to improve. However, the huge crowds of the summer haven’t yet arrived. There really is no bad time in which to explore the city during April. However, keep an eye on when Easter falls. If you get an Easter break and school holidays happening in the first week of April, you may want to visit later in the month in order to avoid the crowds. Of course, the weather will also get a bit better as the month progresses.

London weather in April

At the beginning of April, the air is still fresh . You’ll need a warm coat for any early morning or late evening outdoor activities. You’ll also likely need your umbrella or raincoat – the spring period in London brings changeable weather. More days than not, there will be rain of some form – either a passing shower or 2 or a full day of constant drizzle . That’s based on average weather data, although we have noticed that the past few years have been extremely pleasant with little rain.

Average temperature in London in April

As April starts off, the average temperature during the day will be around 12 degrees celsius, with the evenings and mornings a cool 5 degrees celsius. There is still the odd and low risk of overnight frost , but there is not likely to be any snow. As the month progresses towards May you will notice the temperatures increasing. Expect the temperatures to finish the month off averaging around 16 degrees celsius. But you could of course be lucky and get temperatures approaching 20 degrees C! We’ve been sunbathing in the park in London in April before.

April weather forecast London 2024

If the past years are anything to go by the April weather forecast in London or 2023, 2024 and beyond will be pretty nice! In 2023, the majority of days were clear, and by the 5th April temperatures were already reaching 20 degrees celsius.

So, keep your fingers crossed that you too will see no rain and plenty of during your visit in April. Of course, London weather is notoriously unpredictable. So even if 2023 was a good year, you are not guaranteed this will be the case in the following years.

Beginning or End of April?

The major differentiator between the beginning and end of April in London is the temperature. Whilst the month starts off pretty chilly and fresh, especially in the evenings, the later parts are much warmer. This is true even if the sun isn’t shining. You can also expect plenty of hours of daylight too.

What clothes to wear in London in April

Whilst you may be able to leave the huge big winter coat behind you for your visit, London weather in April isn’t very predictable.

Bring good walking shoes – attractions are spread out over the whole city and even walking inside the metro stations can take some effort. A hat and scarf will also serve you well if you plan to be outdoors in the early mornings and late evenings. Oh. and don’t forget your umbrella!

Things to do in London in April

The list of attractions in this huge city is literally endless! For an overview of the main tourist hotspots in London, check out our guide here . Below, we have listed some additional things to do specifically for the month of April.

Soccer Games in London in April

London is home to many high profile teams. Arsenal, Crystal Palace, Chelsea and QPR are the main ones to consider. But you might get a more local feel checking out Charleton Athletic matches, Fulham or Tottenham Hotspur games. Despite the calibre of the teams, tickets aren’t that bad either . You can get them starting at around £35. Check out the website here.

Exhibitions in London in April

London’s Excel Centre hosts a wide range of exhibitions , and there is always something on in April. Popular exhibitions include wedding fairs, travel, lifestyle and business events. Check out the full list of exhibitions in London April online here.

Concerts in London in April

London is known for putting on some fabulous concerts , from the biggest pop stars to opera and classical music. You can find small, local gigs in pubs and bars to huge stadium events. For the concerts showing in London this April, check out the possibilities here.

Events in London in April

With the warmer weather coming in, there are a lot of cool outdoor events, as well as plenty of free events in London in April. The London Marathon usually takes place in April, as does the boat race. Earls Court Exhibition Centre also hosts an interesting book fair.

Musicals and Broadway Shows in London in April

London’s West End is known for its dozens of permanent and rotating shows and musicals. From some of the long established runners such as The Lion King or Mamma Mia, to new favourites, there is something for everyone. Check out the full offering for April here.

Opera in London in April

The English National Opera carries on an operatic tradition begun in 1656. If you fancy a bit of Madame Butterfly or a visit from the Welsh National Opera, check out the list of shows here.

Free things to do in London in April

• Visit the parks! With the warmer weather, and cherry blossom season underway, April is a great time to begin exploring the parks – Hyde Park, Kew Gardens or Kensington Palace.
• Queen’s Birthday Salute – guns go off in Hyde Park and the Tower of London on the 21st April.

Things to do in London in April with kids

London with kids can get pretty expensive, but luckily in April you can spend more time outdoors! However, if the weather takes a turn, don’t worry.

There are plenty of activities around to keep them entertained:

• KidZania – Located in Westfield, London, KidZania is an indoor city that allows your children to explore
• Madame Tussauds is an old favourite in London, and a great place for the whole family. If you have the London Turbopass , you get free access too!
• Natural History Museum is another much loved place to take the kids in London. Check out the full list of displays here . Best of all, it is free!
• Shrek’s Adventure is another great place to take the kids on a rainy day in London.

Kid friendly places to eat in London

There is nothing worse than traipsing around a huge city with hungry and tired children . Seek out kid friendly restaurants in London to take the pressure off!

Some of the big names offer a relaxed (noisy) atmosphere where no one will bat an eyelid at a crying kid or a dropped glass ! Bubba Gump Shrimp and Planet Hollywood are some examples.

If you prefer something a bit different, try Giraffe or Ed's Easy Diner. And of course, as it is April, there is nothing like grabbing a take away sandwich or box of noodles from ChinaTown and enjoying lunch in Trafalgar Square with the locals!

Romantic Things to do in London in April

London has a bunch of big hitting romantic attractions . You can go up the shard and rent a view with a glass of champagne. Similarly in the London Eye you can rent the pod to pop the question. And of course, there are hundreds of top notch candle lit restaurants spread throughout the city to visit.

Romantic Sunsets

Sunset will be just before 8pm in April. Locals favour Primrose Hill as not only a picnic and walking spot, but also somewhere to enjoy the sunset on a clear day. Richmond Park and Kensington roof gardens are other great places if you have nice weather.

Best Romantic Restaurants in London

There are so many places in London set up for a romantic night out. From the Michelin Star restaurants to small local establishments, there is something for every occasion. The Coach is an excellent bistro style restaurant with a cosy atmosphere. Also, you can enjoy a candlelight meal with your date at Jolene.

Cheap Flights to London in April

Start planning to book flights at least 3 months in advance for April. Depending on when the school Easter Holidays fall, the beginning of the month in particular can see prices skyrocket. Use a comparison website such as Skyscanner to secure the best deals and compare the cheapest days.

London Hotels in Spring

Likewise, hotels can start to creep up their prices as the tourist season gets in full swing. Still, you will have plenty of choice for whatever your budget. If you are looking to splurge for a special occasion the Hotel Cafe Royal offers accommodation in a stunning iconic hotel. Rooms from around €400. On the other end of the scale the Blakemore , which still oers great quality with a 4 star rating, but with prices below €100 its a real steal!

Frequently Asked Questions

Check out some of the most common questions we receive about visiting London in April.

Is it cold in London in April?

The mornings and evening are likely to still be chilly before the day begins to warm up to around 12-16 degrees. Bring a jumper and a few layers to ensure you don’t get caught out.

Does it snow in London in April?

There may be a few days with a light frost, but it is highly unlikely to snow in London in April.

What time is sunset in London in April?

Sunset in London in April will be before 8pm. If you get a good day, take the opportunity to enjoy the sunset.

Does it rain a lot in London in April?

Average rain data for London shows rainfall on 15 days of the month, so it is likely you will at least experience a shower. However in the past few years April has been absolutely glorious, so you may get lucky.

Is London busy in April?

London does begin to get busier in April. In addition, if Easter is falling late, the school holidays can make it even busier.

April is one of our favourite times during which to visit London! From the signs of spring all around, the streets getting livelier and the temperatures on the uptick, the setting is perfect! The weather is still likely to be changeable, but there will be plenty of time during which you can enjoy the parks and outdoor spaces. To help you plan further, check out our useful guides to things like city passes and travel cards .

I’m Sebastian and I love exploring and writing about London. I’ve spent lots of time wandering around the city, finding cool places and learning all the best things to do. On my blog, LondonPass.info, I talk about all the awesome spots in London, from the famous ones everyone knows to secret places that are super special.

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The best things to do in London in April 2024

Plan an amazing April 2024 with our selection of the best events, exhibitions and things to do in London

April is an underrated month if you ask us. Winter is finally over and we’ve all started to emerge from hibernation, ready to properly commit to socialising again. The sun has put in a few appearances, London’s parks and gardens are in full bloom and the city feels alive with all the possibilities of summer, but without all the sunburn and sweltering, sleepless nights. 

There’s also a handful of spring music festivals , some cracking art exhibitions and theatre  (including the first open-air shows of the year) and plenty more amazing things going on around the city. 

Check out our roundup of the best of them, and start planning an amazing month now. 

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Best things to do in London in April

The London Marathon

• Things to do

Running a marathon is a truly gruelling feat requiring countless hours of training, so the 50,000 brave souls who are taking part  London Marathon  on Sunday April 21 2024   very much deserve our support.  Check out our route guide to find the best spectating spots and track down nearby pubs and bars for when all that whooping and clapping leaves you feeling nearly as thirsty as the runners. Remember: your presence at this monumental sporting occasion makes it absolutely fine to drink lager or rosé in the street at 10am on a Sunday. 

In the Round Festival at the Roundhouse

• Chalk Farm Until 27 Apr 2024

Originally built as a railway turntable back in the 19th century, it turns out the shape of The Roundhouse’s cylindrical brick building gives it pretty stunning acoustics. This ten-day fest uses its tubular shape to full effect, staging a unique line-up of bespoke shows, one-off collaborations and surprise gigs designed to immerse you in eclectic sounds and get you closer to your favourite artists.  Artists on the programme include Tirzah, Lucy Rose, Samara Joy and  The Songs of Joni Mitchell featuring Emeli Sandé, Eska, Kate Stables (This Is The Kit), Lail Arad, Sam Amidon, and Vashti Bunyan, hosted by Cerys Matthews. 

‘The Cherry Orchard’

• Seven Dials 26 Apr 22 Jun 2024

Aussie director Benedict Andrews’s 2012 Young Vic production of Chekhov’s ‘Three Sisters’ was a swooningly uninhibited, hugely inventive masterwork, and by all accounts his 2011 Sydney production of ‘The Seagull’ was no slouch. Somewhat over a decade later and he’s finally returning to wistful Russian titan Chekhov with a take on ‘The Cherry Orchard’ that will drop into the bijou confines of the Donmar as part of Michael Longhurst’s final season. Andrews’s take on the story of a Russian landowner who revisits the estate she loves dearly only to sell it off comes with some intriguing initial casting: German star Nina Hoss – a regular in Berlin’s many prestigious theatres until her screen career took off – will make her UK stage debut as Ranevskaya, while acclaimed Brit actor Adeel Akhtar (pictured) will return to theatre for the first time in almost a decade to co-star as Lopakhin.

Learn the art of Nerikomi pottery with Cone8 Ceramics

Cone8 Ceramics invites you to the heart of Hackney Wick for a taster class you do not want to miss. Head to this boutique studio and enter into the world of Nerikomi pottery, an ancient Japanese technique characterized by its intricate patterns and vibrant colours and manipulation of different clays to create stunning designs.  Learn the fundamentals of Nerikomi pottery from experienced instructors as they guide you through the process of blending, shaping, and crafting your own unique masterpiece.

Enjoy a session of Nerikomi pottery with cone8 Ceramics for £39, only through   Time Out offers.

Brick Lane Jazz Festival

• Music festivals
• Brick Lane 26 Apr 28 Apr 2024

We all know by now that London’s jazz scene is young, cool, underground and genre-blending. Taking place across ten venues including Rich Mix, Rough Trade East and the Village Underground, the Brick Lane Jazz Festival may be in its early iterations, but it sums up just how exciting our city’s musicians are. Better yet, the event is also teaming up with Tomorrow’s Warriors, the pioneering talent programme responsible for the success of the likes of Moses Boyd and Ezra Collective. This year’s line-up features  Oscar Jermone, Ego Ella May, Tara Lily and Zeitgeist Freedom Energy Exchange.

• Food and drink events
• South Bank 24 Apr 27 Apr 2024

A whopping 12,000 pint lovers are set to visit this year’s edition of mega beer festival BrewLDN, which is on the Southbank this year with a slew of craft brewers from around the UK and further afield exhibiting. Plenty of London favourites will be in attendance, including  Toast Brewing, Renegade Brewery, Jiddler’s Tipple, Moot Brew Co, Flowerhorn Brewery and SXOLLIE.  There’ll also be street food to soak up the pints, and DJs spinning tunes throughout your seshing. Good luck hauling yourself onto the dancefloor after all that boozing.

Classic Car Boot Sale

• Markets and fairs
• King’s Cross 26 Apr 27 Apr 2024

Car boot, but make it classy. Unlike your usual boot sale, there’s no tat being flogged out of the back of a Ford Fiesta here. Instead Granary Square and Coal Drops Yard at King’s Cross are gearing up to be dotted with rare classic vehicles from which vendors will be selling vintage fashion, homewares and collectibles. Mobile eateries will be dotted between the old-school cars and campervans, while DJs will be impressing purists and pop lovers with vintage vinyl. 

Easter in London

London has an amazing energy on bank holidays and Easter weekend is particularly blessed, because it’s a rare double bank holiday, meaning we get four whole days of work-free fun from Good Friday on April 7  to  Easter Monday on April 10.  

The capital has plenty to keep you occupied over your extra-long weekend. Check out our top picks for Easter weekend 2023 below. 

‘The Last Caravaggio’

• Trafalgar Square Until 21 Jul 2024

Caravaggio was the most dramatic of all Renaissance painters, both in his work (darkness! shadow! light!) and life (murder! revenge! syphilis!). In his final years he produced his most dramatic works. This small, free display focuses on what is possibly his last painting, ‘The Martyrdom of Saint Ursula’ on loan from Italy, and it’s full of death, violence, blood and darkness. Genuinely can’t wait. 

Ceramic Art London

• West Kensington 19 Apr 21 Apr 2024

For two decades Ceramic Art London has been showcasing – and selling – the most exciting pottery from the UK and overseas. This year the work of 119 ceramicists will be on show, as well as examples from the current crop of Royal College of Arts students. A programme of talks on ceramics techniques and aesthetics also accompanies the event.

Hampton Court Palace Tulip Festival

• Hampton Until 29 Apr 2024

Henry VIII’s former gaff is already one of the most splendid-looking buildings in London, but fill it with 10,000 tulips and you’ve got something mighty special to look at. Hampton Court Palace’s Tulip Festival is one of the biggest planted displays of the colouful flowers in the UK and is a good excuse to celebrate the start of spring. See the buds pouring out of the Tudor wine fountain and in floating tulip vases, and spot rare, historic and specialist varieties. There are also expert talks on the flowers and craft activities themed around them.

The palace’s expert gardeners predict the displays will look at their best in mid-April, so don’t wait around to visit. 

• King’s Cross Until 21 Apr 2024

Ahead of Earth Day, taking place on April 22, non-profit organisation Camden Clear Air Initiative have organised the first-ever Earthfest. The event, taking place over the preceding weekend consists of a programme of speakers, workshops and immersive exhibitions to discuss the pressing issue of the climate in a way that’s engaging and interactive. A fashion zone will feature sustainable brands and upcycled masterpieces, and there’ll be talks by experts at the Future of Greentech summit. April 18 is invite only, and April 19 is an industry day, but all events on 20 and 21 are free to the public!

‘Player Kings’

• Shakespeare
• Covent Garden Until 22 Jun 2024

Unstoppable acting legend Ian McKellen and revered director Robert Icke join forces for this incredibly exciting new show, Icke’s own adaptation of Shakespeare’s ‘Henry IV’ Parts 1 and 2 starring 84-year-old Sir Ian in the great role of dissolute knight John Falstaff in his sixth play since turning 80. Human precedent suggests he’ll have to reign in the demanding lead roles at some point, and what a high point this would be to go out on if it were his final big stage part. We don’t know a huge amount about the adaptation, but Icke is renowned for mining new meaning out of classic texts, so who knows what route he’s going to take? It ooks like a shoo-in for one of the theatrical events of the year, regardless of whether McKellen retires after or not.

‘Long Day’s Journey Into Night’

• Charing Cross Road Until 8 Jun 2024

Although it may seem a bit on the nose for Brian Cox to make his long-awaited stage return playing the ailing patriarch of an American family, this is absolutely not ‘Succession’. Eugene O’Neill’s ‘Long Day’s Journey Into Night’ is a strong contender for the greatest American play of all time, a three-hour-plus semi-autobiographical epic that O’Neill refused to share publicly in his own lifetime, and won him a posthumous Pulitzer Prize in 1957. The story follows a family’s implosion over the course of a single day, as long-held resentments emerge between father James (Cox), his addled wife Mary (award-winning US actor Patricia Clarkson) and their embittered sons Edmund (Laurie Kynaston) and James Jr (Daryl McCormack). Louisa Harland rounding out the cast as their maid Cathleen. Jeremy Herrin directs what may or may not prove Cox’s stage swansong. It should in any case be a monumental night at the theatre.

Where to see spring flowers in London

Spring in London is always a knockout. As we emerge from an extra-severe period of hibernation, the urge to get to the park and gawp at loads of pretty flowers becomes pretty intense and  there are tons of amazing green spaces to enjoy the season’s pops of colour.  From London's bright pink cherry blossoms  to seas of lavender  that swell in summer, take a look at our list of the best places to see flowers in London.

‘London Tide’

• South Bank Until 22 Jun 2024

The incomparable Polly Jean Harvey – aka PJ Harvey – has been an intriguingly low-key player in the works of director Ian Rickson for some years now, contributing the odd song here and there for well over a decade without it quite becoming a big deal. Thrillingly, ‘London Tide’ sees her assume a more central role, as a topline creative in Ben Power’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’s ‘Our Mutual Friend’, rechristened ‘London Tide’. Directed by Rickson, it follows the chain of events set into motion when a body is pulled out of the Thames. The cast includes Bella Maclean, Tom Mothersdale and Ami Tredea.

The best places to see cherry blossom in London

• Walks and tours

The capital’s special colourful spectacle that signals warmer days are on the way is here.  Cherry blossom season in Japan is a major event, with vistors from around the world flocking over to get a glimpse of the petals in full bloom. If you can’t make it over for this year’s sakura season  London has  plenty of bloomin’ marvellous places to see the flowers.

Eid in the Square 2024

• Trafalgar Square 20 Apr 2024

This celebration of Eid-al-Fitr, which marks the end of fasting for Ramadan, will take over Trafalgar Square for a family-friendly day of activities and events. Live music and performances will fill the main stage and street food stalls will offer fayre from India, Venezuela, Somalia and more. You’ll also find stalls dedicated to face painting and Mehndi, plus a ‘Creative Art Zone’ with calligraphy, storytelling and drama workshops. 

‘Minority Report’

• Hammersmith 19 Apr 18 May 2024

‘Minority Report’ is now best known for the action-packed 2002 Spielberg sci-fi movie starring Tom Cruise. That was, in fact, a sexed-up adaptation of Philip K Dick’s dystopian 1958 novella, which played out more like a Cold War thriller than the hovercar-tastic excesses of the film. Nonetheless, its central vision remained the same: a future in which criminals are arrested before they commit a crime thanks to the efforts of seemingly infallible telepaths. David Haig’s adaptation promises to cleave more closely to the book. But it looks like it will still be very much its own thing, with a new setting, characters and possibly even premise. Telepaths are not mentioned in the copy, which raises the distinct possibility that in Haig’s adaptation the Pre-Crime division is actually based on AI – something already being discussed as a possibility IRL. Max Webster directs this eye-catching opener to the Lyric Hammersmith’s 2024 season.

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A Guide to Visiting London in April | Attractions, Events & More

Whether you seek a peek into the past or a taste of the future, London will do everything in its power to fulfill your wishes. From iconic monuments, museums, and galleries to diverse sporting and cultural festivities, London has a lot to offer. April is one of the most exciting months to visit London, as the city's blossoming spring flowers are complemented by a variety of special events and activities.

Is April a Good Time to Visit London?

April is a bit of a transitional month in London; the weather, like the tourist season, is still in flux. Flowers embrace the coming warmth after a long, hard winter and begin to peek forth. The city's evenings come alive once more as Londoners rediscover their spirits.

Why You Should Visit

• April is a great month for casual travel because the amount of tourists in London hasn’t yet reached its peak.
• Flight and hotel charges in London are lower in April because the month falls within the shoulder season of tourism.
• There are several festivals and performances to choose from if you visit London in April.
• In April, London begins to lose its drab and bloom, which is a beautiful sight to see.

What to Look Out for

• Since London is still not completely warm in April, your stay may be unpleasant if you do not pack adequately.
• In April, London is forecasted to have a lot of wet days, leading plans to be canceled at the last minute.
• Due to the unpredictable weather, you will have to pack heavy for a trip to London in April.
• Towards the latter half of the month, hotel availability may start to drop and prices may rise due to the increasing warm-weather tourists.

Overview of Weather in London in April

The month of April marks the start of the transition from winter to spring in London. The weather, on the other hand, continues to be cold and rainy. The days begin to lengthen, and there are some days when the sky appears to be overcast.

Average Temperature : High - 13ºC Low - 7ºC

Average Rainfall : 43mm

Daily Wind Speed : 24 kmph

More About Weather in London in April

How hot is London in April?

London isn’t very hot in April. The average high temperature in London in April is 10ºC.

Does it rain in London in April?

Yes, it rains for up to 15 days in London in April.

Is London windy in April?

London in April experiences a mild breeze at about 24 kmph.

12 Best Things to do in London in April

1. The Shard

One of London's brilliant demonstrations of scientific development is this majestic tower. Unlike most other buildings, The Shard was planned to be a vertical metropolis, with residences, workspaces, high-end cafés, and viewing platforms. The Shard's observation decks provide a bird's-eye view of a surprisingly diverse London in April.

April Timings: Wednesdays to Sundays 1 PM to 9 PM

2. Tower of London

This monument has been in its current site since 1399. In addition to its unique style, which is indicative of contemporary architecture, the Tower of London houses a wide collection of art and gemstones acquired from all across the world. The somewhat longer daylight hours in April will allow you to take a leisurely stroll around the entire structure.

April Timings: Tuesdays to Saturdays 9 AM to 4: 30 PM. Sundays to Mondays 10 AM to 4:30 PM

3. Kew Gardens

Landmark | nature.

For its bloom at the start of the Spring season, Kew Gardens, a pleasant hideaway less than 30 minutes from central London, is a fantastic site to visit in April. Kew Gardens is a 130-hectare botanical garden with about 30,000 different plant species. This lush park in southwest London is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a 250-year legacy.

April Timings: Daily 10 AM to 6 PM with last entry at 5:30 PM

4. Madame Tussauds

Entertainment.

Madame Tussauds, one of the most well-known places to visit in London in April, was founded by Marie Tussauds. This wax historical center is well-known throughout the world and attracts a large number of visitors on a regular basis. Step inside this historical hub to see sculptures of famous actors, artists, sports figures, and pioneers.

April Timings: Daily 10 AM to 3 PM

5. London Eye

Family-friendly.

Making a trip to London in April must be synonymous with a visit to the London Eye because of the view of the spring bloom it offers. The London Eye was inaugurated in 2000 with the goal of bringing the millennium to a close. Julia Barfield and David Marks designed this gleaming Ferris wheel, which is possibly London's most popular holiday destination.

April Timings: Daily 10:30 AM to 9 PM

6. Windsor Castle

This historic fortification is well worth a visit, having been built immediately after the Norman invasion in the 11th century. This is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. Its size, on the other hand, is insignificant when compared to the architectural grandeur on display. In April, visit during daylight hours to view the palace and its gardens in all their glory.

April Timings : Daily 10 AM to 5:15 PM

7. Kensington Palace

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Sussex, Gloucester, Kent, Princess Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank, and Prince and Princess Michael of Kent all live in Kensington Palace. A number of items from the Royal Treasure are now on display at the palace. In April, the Kensington Garden is exceptionally lovely.

April Timings : Wednesdays to Sundays 10 AM to 4 PM

Big Ben, designed by Augustus Pugin, is a must-see tourist attraction in London. This clock tower is a wonderful example of neo-Gothic architecture and is perhaps the greatest place to see in London in April. In London, Big Ben is called Elizabeth Tower or Clock Tower, and it is possibly the most well-known tourist attraction in the country.

9. Warner Bros. Studio - Harry Potter Tour

Entertainment | family-friendly.

The magical world of Harry Potter has inspired numerous generations since the premiere of the first film in 2001. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour takes tourists on a tour of the film franchise's famed sets. Because there will be fewer people in April, you will be able to take your time wondering about the studio's halls and exhibition rooms.

April Timings : Check daily opening times .

10. Buckingham Palace Garden

The Palace itself is quite stunning. Add to that the beauty of the gardens in April. In the Spring, when Buckingham Palace is open to the public, take a separate Garden Tour to see the 15 hectares of Buckingham Palace Gardens. Make a point of stopping by the famous herbaceous border, the wisteria-draped Summer House, and the lovely Rose Garden during your stay.

April Timings: Open all-day

11. Day trip to Stonehenge

Since 3000 BCE, Stonehenge has remained in its current position. This historic relic, which is situated on the outskirts of London, is made up of individually crafted stone blocks that each weigh close to 25 tons. Like most heritage monuments, Stonehenge is steeped in a host of scary mythology. In April, this reputed human burial site has fewer tourists, adding to its creepy atmosphere.

12. ZSL London Zoo

The London Zoo is one of the world's largest, most extensive, most interesting zoos, housing over 700 species. Various displays, such as the Tiger Territory, Penguin Beach, Gorilla Kingdom, and Spiders, allow you to feed, interact with, and view animals and birds in their natural habitats. April would be a great time to visit this London site.

April Timings : Daily 10 AM to 5 PM

Top Experiences & Things to do in London in April

Festivals in london in april.

Venue: Across London

Dates : Easter falls on on any Sunday between March 22 and April 25

Easter is a fascinating time in London, with distinctive church services held in churches all around the city, including Westminister Abbey and St. Paul's Cathedral. Throughout the weekend, several other attractions host Easter special events ranging from egg hunts to Easter-themed afternoon teas to immersive displays. This weekend is the first time since the holiday season when London appears to be pulsating with life.

Events in London in April

London Games Festival

Venue : Across London Dates : Early April

The London Games Festival is a celebration of gaming's art, culture, and industry, as well as a chance to test out hundreds of games. The BAFTA Games Awards, the open-air Ensemble exhibition, motivation from the LGF's inaugural Official Selection, and innovative games with Now Play This at Somerset House were all previous features of the London Games Festival program.

The Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race

Venue : River Thames Dates : Late April

During The Men's Boat Race and The Women's Boat Race, crews from Oxford and Cambridge universities compete on the Thames. The Boat Race, one of London's largest free athletic events that can be experienced by the whole family, produces a joyful scene on the banks of the Thames. Every year, up to 250,000 people gather along the riverbanks to join in the festivities and witness the University of Oxford and University of Cambridge eight-oared rowboats race down the Thames.

Know Before You Visit London in April

Time Zone : GMT

Currency : Great British Pound Sterling GBP - £

Country code : +44

Emergency numbers : 111 or 999

What to Wear in London in April

• The weather in London in April can be brisk and unexpected at times because the cold hasn't completely vanished. You must dress in layers that are easy to remove.
• Carry light jackets to layer over warm clothing on days when the weather is expected to change.
• Rain is expected in London in April, so bring umbrellas and waterproof clothing.

What to Pack in London in April

• When visiting London, you need to bring a type G plug.
• In April, London can be chilly, so bring ample warm clothing and covers for your outings.
• If you plan on strolling throughout London, you'll need some good walking shoes.
• An umbrella is also essential in London because the weather is usually always rainy.
• Bring a drawstring backpack with enough compartments to hold everything you'll need for the day.

Getting Around London in April

By Metro : London's Underground subway system is the quickest method to get about. On the Tube, there are 11 lines divided into nine zones. The London Tube is open from 5 AM to midnight.

By Black Cab: These taxis are readily available throughout central London, as well as at major train stations, bus stops, and Heathrow Airport. When hailing a car, make sure the yellow "taxi" light at the front of the cab is turned on.

By Train : Both suburban rail and fast trains connect downtown London to the suburbs, and fast trains connect London to the rest of the nation. There are also regular rail connections to Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stanstead, London's three major airports.

By Bus : The London bus network is huge. It can get you from any part of the city to anywhere else and is the most preferred way of traveling in London.

Where to Stay in London in April

There is a neighborhood in London for everyone, whether you want to enjoy the nightlife or simply relax in the countryside. If you want to be on the go during your stay, choose a location that is closer to convenience.

Budget : Premier Inn London Putney Bridge Hotel , Premier Inn London Woolwich (Royal Arsenal) hotel , The Walrus Bar & Hostel

Mid-Range : Premier Inn London Holborn Hotel , The Z Hotel Victoria , The Belgrave

Luxury : Marlin Waterloo , Kimpton Fitzroy London Hotel , The Ned

What to eat in London in April

If you truly want to know London, you must try the local dishes and favorites. Here are a few of the ones that you must try in April:

English Breakfast: Typical breakfast items include toast, sausages, eggs, mushrooms, blood pudding, mashed potatoes, and various veggies. In April, an English Breakfast is a great way to start a day of sightseeing.

Beef Wellington : Beef Wellington is a London specialty that is flaky, juicy, and satisfying when cooked properly.

Hot Cross Buns : A spicy-sweet bun with a cross on top and currants or raisins inside. The cross signifies Jesus' crucifixion, and the spices symbolize the spices used to mummify him at his burial, and it is usually eaten on Easter.

Hacks & Tips to Visit London in April

• When packing, remember that there will be days in April when wearing just one warm jacket would suffice. 
• Rain is quite likely in April, so plan to stay inside if necessary.
• Bring waterproof clothing and shoes if you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing.
• Visit the London Art Fair if you are an art aficionado.
• The London Book Fair is a great place to visit for bookworms. 
• Visit the local markets in April and purchase some of the fresh produce on offer.
• When you're out shopping in the local markets, don't forget to haggle a little to get the best price.
• Look for accommodation and flight deals in April as this is the last month you will get off-season rates in London.

Explore London Through the Year

Frequently asked questions about visiting london in april.

Yes, April can be a good time to visit London and explore its many attractions and monuments for an unforgettable experience.

The best things to do in London in April include visiting top attractions such as Tower of London , London Eye , Kew Gardens among many others. You can also go on a Thames river cruise , visit museums or go on a day trip while visiting London in April.

Yes, London is still cold in April.

No, London in April is not particularly sunny.

You will need to wear warm clothing in London in April.

Yes, London in April can be quite rainy.

Yes, London is a bit expensive to visit. But if you book your London attractions tickets online, in advance, you will have the chance to save a lot with great deals and discounts.

London is quite safe in general.

You can see The Shard, Westminster Abbey, Kensington, The Big Ben, and many others in London in April.

The major events in London in April include the London Art Fair and The Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race.

The average temperature in London in April is 10ºC.

Kids will enjoy visiting the SEA Life London and going to the Harry Potter Tour at Warner Bros. Studios.

London in April is an incredible time to visit and explore many popular attractions. Explore Tower Bridge, the Shard, Westminster Abbey and more on your visit to London in April.

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Visiting London in

What to expect, getting around.

• Things to do

There's always plenty of fun things to do in London in every season. If you are visiting London in April, you'll find an especially enticing list of April events. At long last, winter is over, the temperatures are pleasant, birds are singing, flowers are blooming, and trees are budding. Hyde Park and other smaller parks are calling and it's perfect weather for one of the great river cruises. Fans of Princess Diana will want to visit Kensington Palace’s Princess Diana Memorial Garden. Stroll around Camden Market and admire the crafts and gift items. If you have been overdoing the sightseeing, this is a good place to take a load off and just people watch.

• Average Daytime Temperatures: 52 F (11C)
• Average Overnight Temperatures: 43 F (6C)
• Sunny or partly sunny days: 14
• Rainy days: 16

What to wear

• Pack an umbrella, you will be happy to have it when it starts to rain.
• Dress in layers – in can be cool particularly in the mornings and evenings, especially on the observation decks
• Wear comfortable walking shoes, closed toe shoes and water resistant, so you can enjoy your walking tours, as well as something a bit more fanciful for the nightlife.

London Prices in April

London in April can be a little easier on the budget than during peak season (May to Mid-September, December). London is a busy year-round destination. Book your flights and accommodation in advance for best prices and save up money by booking at the right times. Try to book your accommodation 4 to 6 months in advance.

Planning your trip is a key to a balanced budget, use free online resources like our maps & guide or the itinerary tool, if you are going to visit some iconic attractions, get a sightseeing pass, it will easily save you 50% on regular admission prices – see more

With roughly 30 million travellers per year, London easily ranks as one of the most visited cities on earth. London is easy to navigate, but if you can't walk to your destination there are plenty of options

London underground.

The quickest way to travel around, London's Underground metro system is the oldest and most famous in the world. In total, there are 11 lines on the Tube within nine zones. On most days the London Tube is open between 5AM and 12AM, but there is extended services for Friday and Saturday. Fares vary widely for the London Underground depending on when you're using the service and how far you're going. The easiest way navigate the Tube is to invest in what's known as an Oyster Card. These re-chargeable card can be purchased at any Tube station. Put as much money as you want on your Oyster Card and scan it at the entrance of the Tube station. It’s much cheaper to use than single tube tickets.

Black Cabs - Traditional London taxis

These cabs can easily be found all over central London as well as by major train stations, bus stops, and by Heathrow Airport. Please ensure the yellow "taxi" light in the front of the cab is on when you're trying to hail a vehicle. All taxicab services in London are metered and there's a £3 minimum charge. While you're not required to tip, it's always welcome, and most Londoners will round up their fare.

Hop on, Hop off Buses

These buses connect major attractions all over the city and provide many photo opportunities, it's also a good way to catch a break or eat your sandwich while still sightseeing one of the many special tours. Getting around London from the comfort of a bus is a great way to get a feel for the city without worrying about getting lost. Checkout the London Sightseeing Bus Routes with over 7 bus loops and more than 100 bus stops

Free Digital Guidebook

Hop-on hop-off bus map, london tourist map, things to do in april, check out the following list of ideas for fun things to do in london in april:, 1. changing the guard at buckingham palace.

One fascination that is not to be missed is the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. It takes place outside Buckingham Palace, begins at 10:45 AM and lasts around 45 minutes (handover takes place at 11:00 AM). You can join the Change of the Guard walking tour to learn much more about this ceremony.

2. Queen’s Birthday

Although the Her Majesty The Queen celebrates her official birthday in June, her actual birthday is on 21 April. To mark the occasion the gun salutes are fired at Hyde Park and at the Tower of London.

3. London Marathon

April events include the world-famous London marathon. This 26-mile run begins just south of the Thames and ends in front of Buckingham Palace. You can be a spectator or a participant at this exciting event.

4. Feast of St. George in Trafalgar Square

Traditional English fairs and fetes where you can see first-hand medieval jousting, brass bands, and fun-day family games along with demonstrations from leading chefs.

Many shops and attractions in London put on special offers and exhibitions over the Easter weekend: from Easter egg hunts and special Easter events, to the best chocolate shops. Keep in mind, that many shops are not open on Easter Sunday, and the timetable schedules for public transport may be reduced over the Easter weekend.

Rainy Day Options in London

Tower of london.

Learn about the storied history of London with a trip to this epic tower. Visitors will delight in the exhibit of the Royal Family crown jewels, including the Imperial State Crown. The guards of the tower will regale visitors with tales of the bloody history of these times, enchanting everyone who walks through the gates. Visit to the Tower of London is free with the London Sightseeing Pass.

West End Theatre

taking a West End show will chase away any rainy day blues during your visit to London. It might not be possible to get last minute tickets to every show, but you can find something a couple of hours before the show starts by visiting the Encore Box office. With every sightseeing pass purchased on this site we offer 55 GBP towards your theatre ticket

London Museums

Your weather app says it’s going to be raining the whole day? Head over to one of the best London Museums or Galleries. Whether your interest is in art, science or history, there’s something for everyone in just about every neighbourhood. Pick from the British Museum, The National Gallery, Tate Modern, the Kensington Museums of Natural History or Science Museum – all offer free entry to the public.

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40 Awesome Things To Do In London In April 2024

Spring is awakening, and so is the city. So, it's the ideal time to get out and about, and our guide to the best things to do in London in April 2024 is here to help you make the most of the month.

Simon And Garfunkel sang  April Come She Will , and it seems that she is, in fact, coming around once again. And London is looking a bit brighter now; with some colours on the trees and a hell of a lot more daylight to be enjoyed.

That means a dosage of coffee festivals, parks, and new art exhibitions to enjoy throughout the month until whatever may come next (May). Fingers crossed for some warm weather on the horizon so we can get out and explore the city without freezing for too long. Here are some of the best things to do during April in London .

1. Catch ’em all at this pop-up Pokémon Center

Check out your Pokémon collection and note down what you’re missing because you’ll be able to add some thunderbolting items into your pocket at this pop-up center. It’s blasting into London like Team Rocket between April 4-7 , and even though you won’t be able to use your gym badges or Pokémon league wins as currency, it’ll still be a whale wailmer of a time. Keen Pokémon hunters should note that the space is free to enter but you’ll need to reserve a timeslot. Find out more and book your spot here .

2. Frolic around some tulips at this beautiful springtime festival at Hampton Court Palace

100,000 tulips spread around a royal setting? This is the spring juice we have been craving and now it is at our green fingertips. Between April 15 and May 16, Hampton Court Palace will be adorned with colour and floral splendour as the grounds that Henry XIII once roamed undergo a giant seasonal bloom. Find out more about the Hampton Court Palace Tulip Festival here . 

3. Or journey a little further to waltz through a giant tulip field

Look – we know this isn’t the Secret Tulip website, but we can’t help it. They’re all just too vibrant and awe-inspiring to not point you towards. In fact, I reckon you could pinpoint the exact moment the winter blues leave your body after setting foot in the field of tulips at Tulley’s Farm . Take a trip just outside the city to these heavenly (and ever-expanding) swathes of the flowers, which open from April 3.  Read more about Tulley’s Farm here .

4. See the lights around London for Ramadan

London is adorned with lights for the month-long celebration of Ramadan, with decorations illuminating the city every day until around April 10 (depending on the lunar cycle). Last year marked the first time the West End had been lit up for Ramadan, and, alongside these making a return, you can catch a beautiful installation at Marble Arch .

5. Explore the 100-year-old underground tunnels beneath the Postal Museum

Put your adventurer cap on and trot along the century-old tracks that lie under the postal museum. Learn about their history and maintenance, as well as their eventual closure in 2003 on the tours that are opening up again in April . Plus, you’ll be able to take the tour on a Friday or Saturday for the first time ever, which is sure to be just the tonic to end that tough working week. Find out more about the underground postal museum track tours and check out available slots here .

6. Welcome back this colourful playground for grown ups

The start of summer is a moveable feast in London. Some might say it starts on June 1 , while others proclaim the end of daylight savings to be the start of summertime. These are both correct, in a sense, but, really, it’s all about what’s going on in the skies… which seems to change every year. You want a sure sign of summer that arrives in April every year, though? Well, that would be Roof East , the dash of colour that’s with us all throughout the sunny season.

Roof East is rolling back to its Stratford rooftop on April 18 this year, and the vibrant playground for adults is bringing even more with it than usual this year. Aside from some familiar faces of activities ( Birdies , Sluggers , Rooftop Film Club ) and food vendors (Cheeky Burger, Piddaji), there are special celebrations in the works for Roof East’s 10th anniversary, where later in the season they’ll throw back to 2014 food and drink prices and slash the price of activities for one day. Roof East just gets it. Find out more about Roof East here ; tickets are on sale now!

7. Head to the Sony World Photography Awards exhibition

Wander through a sea of award-winning images that tell stories from around the world. Running between April 19 – May 6, the Sony World Photography Awards exhibition features images of captivating imagery of wildlife, architecture, streets, landscapes and more. Those who attend will also be treated to works by Sebastião Salgado, who received the award for  Outstanding Contribution to Photography and the display features photographs spanning through the Brazilian photographer’s career, from  Gold  in 1986 to Amazônia in 2019.  Find out more about the awards and book your spot now . 

8. Run like the wind during the London Marathon

April in London is marathon month , and even though those who are running at the event–which attracts 50,000 pacey people–already know, you may need to sort your plans for cheering on people you know, or how to celebrate getting to the finish line (pints, always pints). It takes place on April 21 , and you can read our guide to what to remember before running the long old thing. ‘Til, then, back to training! Not long to go now.

9. Walk around the cherry blossom wonderland that is London in spring

Look, London in the winter can be great and all, but once the allure of Christmas lights and warming fires wears off, it’s safe to say it really does last a touch too long—we’re over it! When spring arrives it does so with style, with flair. Pink shades in the trees around the city , and with that comes a dose of endorphins served to us like a tray of delights.

London’s keen Instagrammers will be taking a tour of the capital this month to find striking shades of pink on the city’s saplings; and, quite frankly, I suggest you do the same, whether you’re capturing the evidence on your phone or not. A walk to the shops and a stroll through the park can have a whole new meaning in spring – here are some of the best places to clap eyes with the cherry blossom in London .

10. Attend the sublime Seoul-inspired Delight art exhibition

With 12 immersive zones, Delight has made a splash since its arrival last year. It presents room after room of productions by Korean artist Gyoungtae which include the mediums of augmented reality, sounds, lighting, and sound. We’re talking ceiling projections and 360-degree installations that make you feel like you’re truly being swallowed up by the art – in the best way possible. Find out more and book your tickets to the Delight exhibition here .

11. Belt out some choruses at Europe’s largest karaoke venue

Nothing better than letting your angelic voice loose at the post-pub karaoke session is there? BAM opens up in London this month; arriving on the scene as Europe’s biggest karaoke venue with 22 individually-designed rooms to turn into a stage. BAM is taking bookings from April 19 , and you can find out more here . 

12. Slurp cups of hot java at the London Coffee Festival

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Professed to be the biggest coffee party on earth, the London Coffee Festival hits the Truman Brewery between April 11-14 for a few days of pure caffeine buzz. Watch latte art masters at work; hear talks from industry experts; watch the panel-judged coffee masters competition, where 16 coffee makers battle it out; or just grab a cup of Joe and have a boogie along to the live music at the ‘Hyde Park Bar’. Let your love of coffee percolate across this weekend. Find out more about the event here .

13. Eat at a London restaurant for Iftar and Suhoor during Ramadan

For anyone celebrating Ramadan in London , the daytime means a fast between sunrise and sunset. Suhoor is the meal prior to fasting, and Iftar marks the evening meal after Maghrib (sunset). Here are some London restaurants that offer special menus or buffets throughout Ramadan in 2024 .

🍜 Putera Puteri – Malaysian restaurants in Queensway that run an Iftar menu and a variety of dishes.

🍖 Ayam Zaman – Syrian restaurant in Shepherd’s Bush serving up spectacular Middle Eastern plates with a regularly changing buffet for Iftar.

😋 The Great Chase – Iftar menu running through Ramadan with options including spiced harissa soup, beef wellington, and choux buns. The space has a dedicated prayer zone where diners will be invited to join the congregational prayer after being welcomed with water, dates, and fresh bread.

🍗 Berenjak – A pair of restaurants in Soho and Borough that know exactly how to serve up the perfect kabab.

Read about more places to eat in London during Ramadan here .

14. Celebrate Eid-al-Fitr in the city

At the end of the month-long celebration of Ramadan comes Eid-al-Fitr , which is expected to fall on April 10 this year. On April 20, London will mark the occasion with its annual (and free!) Eid In The Square festival , which returns for its 19th year for a lineup of main stage performers, delicious food stalls, the Inspiring Muslim Awards, and plenty of activities to celebrate throughout the day.  Read all about Eid In The Square here .

15. Get your Wes Anderson style on at this brilliant exhibition

The exhibit that showcases the Wes Anderson in everyday life has grasped London and not looked back since its arrival last year. Symmetry, pastel colours, and wanderlust can all be found at this ‘tribute to travel and, photography, community, and adventure’. It’s certain to be as grand as the Budapest Hotel looks!  Grab your spot here .

16. Check out an exhibition for all levels of sight

A first-of-its-kind exhibition is rolling into Somerset House in April ; one that is accessible to those who are blind, partially sighted, and sighted visitors.  World Unseen  is dubbed as ‘ the photography exhibition you don’t need to see,’ and enables everyone to experience imagery in a new way. Vivid descriptions will be provided to bring each piece to life, with soundscapes audio alongside textures for visitors to feel through tactile printing.  Find out more and plan your visit to World Unseen here . 

17. Grab a bargain at the King’s Cross Car Boot Sale

If there’s one thing better than a car boot sale , it’s a classic car boot sale. Yes, the CCBS returns to King’s Cross this month on April 27-28 .

Bask in a weekend filled with bargains and ogle at the vintage cars, including a replica of the Mustang 390 GT, which was driven by Steve McQueen in the James Bond movie, Bullit . If you go, you’re kindly asked to ‘forget everything you know about car boot sales’. With live music, craft beer, clothing repair workshops, and a pop-up studio from the Museum of Youth Culture, I think it’s safe to say that we like this varient of the car boot sale. Read more about the Classic Car Boot Sale here .

18. Attend the Vaisakhi Festival celebrations in Trafalgar Square

Marking one of the most important days in the Sikh calendar, the Vaisakhi celebrations are taking place at Trafalgar Square once again. Those who attend the free event on April 6 can expect a lively commemoration of the festival celebrating Sikh and Punjabi tradition, heritage and culture with a lineup of main stage acts, talks, food stalls and much more. Find out more and plan your visit here .

19. Have a blast at this immersive Gunpowder Plot experience

Head down to the Tower Hill vaults to head in the dark and murky worlds of the Gunpowder Plot Experience. You’ll be guided along by a mix of virtual actors (including Tom Felton as Guy Fawkes!) by way of VR, and a real-life cast as you immerse yourself in the tale of the events we now recognise by setting off fireworks on November 5 every year. You can even sip on some cocktails at the bar at the experience during the intermission before heading back into the tale that blends fact and fiction for a thrilling storyline and interactive experience.  Find out more and book your spot here .

20. Take in the sight of the magical bluebells in and around London

Of course, cherry blossoms are the first to emerge… but later in spring is when blue beauties come out to play. It truly depends on the year as to when bluebell season is in full swing , but recently, more mild winters have seen them flowering as early as late March . Whenever they do decide to show themselves, we can expect to see a carpet of colour sweep over the woodlands in and around London, so you’d be foolish to miss the chance to check them out – they don’t stick around for long, after all! Here are a few spots you can expect to see bluebells around London.

💙 Eltham Park North 

💙 Wanstead Park 

💙 Isabella Plantation

💙 Epping Forest

💙 Kew Gardens

💙 Horsenden Hill

Read about more places to look at the bluebells here .

21. Drink up at this otherworldly cocktail experience

Onward and upwards to a new world! For drinks! Avora is your port of call for entering an immersive world of cocktailing adventures. Whack on a jumpsuit and dive into the multi-sensory universe of Avora and choose your journey towards three crafted cocktails with a New World storyline along the way.  Find out more and book your spot here .

22. Eat at a new bar dedicated entirely to cheese toasties

If you’re going to dedicate a bar to a ‘thing’ it needs to be a pioneer, an icon. Thankfully, the ‘cheese toastie’ fits that very bill, and Two Drops is where you’ll need to be heading for your bevvies combined with cheese in between bread. Toasties here come in different varieties (we hearing about fillings that range from salt beef and all the trimmings to marmite and shallot) and you’ll be able to bite into the new Battersea Power Station bar from April 26 .  Find out more about Two Drops here . 

23. Hit the beach from London

You may be planning your trip out of London (or even the country) to hit the real beach soon, but from April 26 , you can hit the golden sands of the Fulham Beach Club . No passport is required, just an Oyster Card over to the trusty annual beach at Neverland that becomes the escape within the city in the springtime and throughout summer. Find out more about Fulham Beach Club here .

24. Have a ball at a London gig

🕺 Thundercat (April 3-6): KOKO – expect four nights of funky basslines and delicious noises from the maverick performer.

🎸 Slash, Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators (April 5) : Wembley Arena – soaring melodies and guitar solos collide in the world of the Guns N Roses hero and Altar Bridge frontman. 

💡 Underworld (April 6): Alexandra Palace – witnessing born slippy in front of a crowd that big? Go on then…

🎤 Myrkur (April 10): Islington Assembly Hall – Danish Folk meets Black Metal to a colossal effect. 

🎙️ Stefflon Don (April 13) : Roundhouse – the iconic rapper takes to the big stage in Camden for a lively gig this month. 

⚽ Eric Cantona (April 17) : Shepherd’s Bush Empire – yes, the Eric Cantona who scored that chip is playing a show in London this month. 

💃 Caity Baser and Bellah Mae (April 19) : Hammersmith Apollo – a linkup for the ages heads over to Hammersmith for a night of raucous vibes. 

🐺 Chelsea Wolfe (April 21) : Heaven – dark and brooding sounds, such sweet dark and brooding sounds.

🥁 The Dirty Nil & Microwave (April 24) : Scala – riffs, riffs, riffs, and rock & roll, baby! 

🪩 Take That (April 25-28 + April 30) : O2 Arena – these days of Take That at the O2 could be the greatest days of our lives…

🎵 Sampha (April 26) : Alexandra Palace – Mercury Music Prize winner Sampha graces the London stage to give Glastonbury 2024 attendees a taste of what’s to come. 

Check out our handy guide to London gigs here . 

25. Visit a giant ceramic exhibition

In London, you’ll find exhibitions that come in all shapes and sizes. And the size in question here is bloody gigantic, as strangely shaped ceramics make up this huge fair at Olympia London in the middle of the month. Ceramic Art Fair is putting on their largest show in the city, where 100 different artists and makers will be on show between April 19-21 .  Read more about the event here .

26. Waltz through these London villages that feel like the countryside

Saving your bucks for a holiday in summer can mean you’re sat twiddling your thumbs, hoping for an escape when the weekend hits. Enter our solution: village-like locations amid the hustle and bustle of London that might just make you feel like you’re on a well-earned getaway.

🤩  Hampstead Village – adorable streets and a pergola to wander through; this one is quite the dream. 

🚲 Warren Mews – hard to quite comprehend that this is as central as Fitzrovia, but it is. And it’s a quaint little paradise. 

🌲 Chiswick – the parks and gardens here could have been plucked out of the countryside and into the unassuming west London zone 2 streets. 

🛶 Little Venice – walking by a canal filled with colourful boats is a guaranteed pass out of the city, if only for a few minutes.

Read about more villages in London here !

27. Go to a free festival of sustainability

EarthFest 2024 is making its way into King’s Cross this month, which hosts a vast number of speakers on how we can work towards a stronger and more sustainable future. Across the weekend, visitors will also be treated to plenty of live music concerts at Coal Drops Yard , as well as live podcasts and sustainable fashion brands showing off their fits. There’s even a repair café for your more loved pieces of clothing and a swap shop to trade your garms. Find out more and plan your visit to EarthFest here .

28. View an exhibition of never-seen-before photograph of Andy Warhol

Photographer William John Kennedy’s never-seen-before shots of Andy Warhol are going on display in April that are said to have been lost to the world for the last 40 years.  Read more about the exhibit and plan your visit here .

29. Or check out one of London’s many other brilliant Art Exhibitions

Those who tire of the endless art in London must get their heads checked – there’s always a brilliant new exhibition opening just around the corner and here are some highlights you can check out in the capital this month.

❤️ The Future Is Female (ends April 6) : The Garrison Chapel, Chelsea Barracks – showing a range of sculptures from 14 contemporary international female artists with challenges to male bias in art and sculpture. 

🩷 Women In Revolt! Art and Activism in the UK 1970-1990 (Until April 7) : Tate Britain – a detailed view into feminist art on rebellious ideas from over 100 artists in the UK.

🧡 Refik Anadol: Echoes of the Earth (until April 7) : Serpentine Galleries – the first major solo exhibition in the UK for Refik Anadol uses large-scale installations with visual data of coral reefs and rainforests. 

💛 DIVA (until April 10) : V&A – DIVA has been bowling visitors over since last summer in the exhibition that examines the very term and celebrates performers who took on the status quo.

💚 Quentin Blake: The QB Papers (April 10-28) : Cromwell Place – following a separate exhibition in February, the work of Quentin Blake will grace London again this month.

💙 Anne Desmet: Kaleidoscope/London (April 12 – September 8) : Guildhall Art Gallery – a series of digital collages sliced into prints that focus in on the city of London.

🩵 The Mocking Bird (until April 13) : BEERS – Florent Stosskopf returns for his second solo exhibition that draws on elements of his own autobiography. 

💜 Expressionists: Kandinsky, Münter, and the Blue Rider (April 25 – October 20) : Tate Modern – a long-running exhibition examining the union and work of close collaborators in the early 20th century to serve a shared purpose. 

🤎 Capturing The Moment (until April 28) : Tate Modern – a view into how the arrival of photography changed the route paintings would take. 

Check out more of London’s art exhibitions by reading our handy guide . 

30. Take a rapid trip to Ancient Egypt via London

Haven’t you heard? All you need to experience the pyramids of Giza is a trusty VR headset (essential) and an explorer hat (optional). The Horizon Of Khufu experience transports you to a different world, a different time; dropping you right into Ancient Egypt and proving you don’t always need a time machine to get a glimpse of the past.  Find out more and book your spot here . 

31. Take advantage of your last chance to try the Jolene x Gelupo collaboration

Jolene and Gelupo have linked up to start slinging the baddest-looking hot cross buns that you’ll find in town. Think about it: a bakery meeting a gelateria is just a match made in some kind of treat-based heaven, so these Easter snacks were always going to be on the radar of the sweet-toothed Secret London snack hunters. Chucking ice cream in between hot cross buns and toasted buns is a stroke of genius, and you can still get them on the first day of the month ( April 1 ), so don’t miss out.  Read more about the Jolene x Gelupo collaboration here . 

32. Enjoy a springtime candlelight concert

Spring = pretty colours, and candles = pretty glow… why didn’t anyone combine the two sooner? No point dwelling on that now; it would only take away the time you could be preparing for your trip to the springtime candlelight concerts in London. A floral-adorned Glaziers Hall will be your palace to sway along to the sound of Vivaldi or a tribute to Coldplay & Imagine Dragons .

Plus, you can also opt for the soothing option of the unique and utterly relaxing candlelit sound bath experience – which features flickering lights and dreamy vibrational sounds to switch you off completely and drown the sound from the world outside.

Check out the full range of Candlelight springtime concerts here . 

33. Have a boogie at the Brick Lane Jazz Festival

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If there’s one thing better than a day out in Brick Lane –a day filled with beigels and bargains from vintage stores–it’s a day out at Brick Lane that involves a jazz festival .

Between April 26-28 , you can take in the smooth tones and swing your hips to artists including Ojerime, Ego Ella May, and many more across a stacked bill over three days.  Find out more and book your tickets here .

34. Dine at an Argentinian Supper Club

Viajente87 in Notting Hill is continuing its supper club series “The Culture Exchange” with the team behind both a restaurant and a bar from Argentina, which are both among the best in their fields at worldwide awards, joining forces to create a showcase night of beautiful food and drink. Find out more and book your place at the delightful Argentinian Supper Club here . 

35. Witness ‘The Unknown’ from the Willy Wonka Experience at the London Dungeon

If the words ‘Willy Wonka Experience’ mean nothing to you, then you probably  don’t  spend too much time looking at internet memes. For the majority of us who are guilty of that, you’ll recognise ‘The Unknown’ from the Glasgow event where it all went wrong – and it’s now been confirmed that the very same actor will be making a special guest appearance at London Dungeon on April 7 .  Find out more here . 

36. Bask in the glow of the first 8pm sunset of the year

Thanks to the clocks going forward, March treated our poor Vitamin D-starved souls to the first 7pm sunset of the year. Come April 17 , the sun won’t be leaving us until 8pm and after, so you’d better be cranking up the heat on your summer plans. It could be 7°C or 31°C, but those extra hours of sunlight will have you feeling like a million dollars in the beer gardens across London.

37. Glow up your life at this Paint In The Dark experience

Painting with a drink by your side in the illuminated cosy cubbyhole is a neo-futuristic old time, and we are very much here for it. Let your creativity run wild at the artistic masterclass that is Paint In The Dark and let those fluorescent colours give you a buzz like no other.  Find out more and book your spot here .

38. Or splash some colour around at this ‘freestyle painting lab’

Let all the colours splash out at this vibrant painting lab that allows you to slingshot paint onto your canvas and create a unique work – all in the name of abstract art! Get your robes on and prepare to make a mess in this 90-minute extreme painting session.  Find out more and book your spot here . 

39. Don’t be played for a fool on the first day of the month!

Didn’t think we’d go the whole way without a mention for April Fool’s Day , did you? You’ll want to be alert to those pesky pre-12pm pranks that we inevitably fall foul to on occasion. April 1 falls on a Monday this year, so don’t let your post-weekend, bleary-eyed state lead to yourself being done good and proper by your housemates (aka the prank patrol).

40. Keep exploring this incredible city

We’ll let you in on a little secret: it’s impossible to list  everything that goes on in London over the course of one month (though we do try our best). Here are a few more things Secret London have been shouting about that you don’t want to miss out on before April waves goodbye .

🐕 An Adorable Art Trail Of Guide Dog Sculptures Has Landed In Canary Wharf

🏄 London Is Making Waves As This Inland Surfing Venue Threads Its Way To Enfield

🍺 A Beer Hall In East London Will Be Taken Over By A Huge, Inflatable Obstacle Course In April

🚽 There’s A Hidden Coffee Shop Inside A Public Toilet In Fitzrovia

🎥 This Rooftop Cinema Has Just Released Their Sensational Summer Schedule

🪄 10 Spellbinding Places In London That Harry Potter Fans Will Love

😋 These Are The Best New Restaurants And Bars In London To Try In 2024

🍳 A ‘Britalian’ Restaurant Serving Carbonara With Cream And A Fried Egg Is Opening In South London

🍛 20 Of The Best Indian Restaurants In London To Turn Up The Heat

🥪 This Iconic Bristol Sandwich Shop Is Bringing Its Mammoth Sarnies To London

👹 A Shrek-Inspired Fairground Has Completely Transformed This Lush Shop In Soho

More things to do and inspiration…

Also published on Medium .

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Visiting London in Spring (All you need to know)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 21, 2024

Are you considering a springtime trip to London? Great idea! Spring in London is lovely, without the tourist crowds that you can expect during summer and around Christmas time . 

This complete guide to the spring season in London covers everything you need to know. From the weather you can expect from London in spring to what to do during your visit, by the end of this guide you’ll be fully informed about what to wear, average temperatures, hours of daylight and a whole lot more. 

During spring in London, the weather means that it’s warming up and days are getting longer. Which gives you more time for exploring during daylight hours. You should also be able to enjoy more time in the sunshine, though of course in the UK that can never be guaranteed! 

Whether you’re seeking things to do in London in spring or want to know whether to plan a springtime trip at all, this article has all the answers. So read on to discover all you should know about taking a spring break in London. 

What to pack

What is london like in the spring, is march a good time to visit london, is april a good time to visit london, is may a good time to visit london, celebrate st. patrick’s day, take a river cruise to greenwich, visit a riverside beer garden, discover kew gardens, go to the chelsea flower show, walk the millenium bridge, explore london parks, enjoy a london photoshoot, don’t miss the spring blooms including daffodils, cherry blossoms and wisteria, take a day trip out of the city, will you spend spring in london.

Top 5 London Tours in Spring

• 🗝 TOWER OF LONDON – Ceremony of the Keys
• 🪄 HARRY POTTER STUDIOS – Making of Harry Potter Studio + HP walking tour of central London
• ⭐️ PRIVATE TOUR – Discover Real London black cab tour of London
• 🇬🇧 HOP ON HOP OFF BUS – City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• 🥟 FOOD TOUR – Ultimate Food Tour of Borough Market

Spring in London | What to Expect

The weather during spring in London tends to be mild, with cool to warm days and colder nights. You can expect 8 or 9 days of rain, but these tend to occur as wet or dry spells. In general, the days get longer and temperatures higher as spring progresses. 

Spring can be defined in two ways. According to the meteorological calendar, spring commences on 1st March, and lasts until the end of May. Astronomical spring starts with the spring equinox, which takes place around 20th March, and then lasts for three months. 

To make things simple, this article assumes that the London spring runs throughout March, April and May. Here’s an at-a-glance guide to the average temperatures for March, April and May. 

Monthly temperatures and rainfall

• Average high: 12°C / 54°F
• Average low: 6°C / 43°F
• Average days of rain: 9
• Average high: 15°C / 59°F
• Average low: 7°C / 45°F
• Average high: 18°C / 64°F
• Average low: 10°C / 50°F
• Average days of rain: 8

So how is spring time in London? The UK is known for having a cold, wet and humid climate, with a lot of rain. 

Spring weather in London

Mild weather.

Though there are exceptions, and seeing snow in London during spring isn’t unheard of, daytime temperatures are often into double figures by spring. The mild climate also means that major storms are rare, with no hurricanes, tornadoes or earthquakes. Flash floods do sometimes occur after heavy rain, though.  

Changeable weather

When planning where to go in London in spring, bear in mind that it can be anywhere from cold to hot, and dry or wet. Taking a warm layer, plus a waterproof jacket or umbrella, can be wise. As the UK has a maritime climate, the weather can change very rapidly! Weather forecasts can be used as a guide, but they’re far from foolproof. 

Wet weather 

In spring, you can expect eight or nine days of rain per month in London. However in reality this isn’t often spread out evenly over the month, but is more likely to occur as a wet or dry spell lasting for several days, or even a week or more. The best mantra to live by in London is to always be prepared for rain!

Daylight hours

Spring in London brings longer hours of daylight, especially by the end of May. At the start of spring, sunrise is around 6.45 am and sunset is about 5.40 pm. By the end of the season, the sun rises at around 4.50 am and sets at about 9.05 pm.

• Sunrise: Between about 06:45 and 04:50
• Sunset: Between about 17:40 and 21:05

The summer solstice takes place around 21st June in the UK, so by the end of spring you’ll see some of London’s longest days. There’s quite a big difference, especially at sunset, throughout March, April and May. 

British Summer Time

The other factor that comes into play is British Summer Time (BST). This means the clocks go forward in late March – around 29th to 31st on average. As a result, there are more hours of daylight each evening, and less in the mornings. That’s why it’s sometimes called Daylight Saving Time. 

While the sun sets way before 6 pm at the beginning of March, it doesn’t set until after 9 pm by the end of May. So there’s a big difference in how many daylight hours you have after sunrise, depending on when you travel to London. 

The sun rises by 6.45 am at the start of March, and by 04.50 am by the end of May. This is affected by BST. After the clocks have moved forward in late March, there is less daylight during the mornings and more in the evenings. 

When packing for spring in London, plenty of layers, a waterproof jacket, a compact umbrella and sturdy walking shoes are all essential. 

When visiting London, England in Spring, you can expect mild weather in general. However, extremes are far from unheard of! Pack layers and a waterproof jacket, at least. If it is unusually cold or hot, there are plenty of places to buy clothing in London. 

You will do a lot of walking while exploring London. Hiking shoes, tennis shoes, or comfortable trainers or sneakers are ideal for spring. Think about investing in a waterproof pair, as if you do get caught in the rain you don’t want sodden feet all day long. 

For London in spring, a waterproof jacket is also necessary. In case it is cooler than usual, a waterproof, windproof jacket with a fleece inner that can be removed is ideal. By the afternoon it can get much warmer than in the morning, so make sure your daypack has space for carrying unwanted clothing. 

Wearing layers, such as a t-shirt plus cardigan, sweater or hoodie will do nicely for the average spring day. You might also like to add a waterproof jacket or a gilet. Fast-drying active trousers dry faster than jeans, making them a better choice. Some even come with zip-off legs, for conversion to shorts on warmer days. 

Accessories

If you’re going to London in early spring and you’re not used to the cold, it can be worth packing accessories such as gloves, a scarf and a hat. You may not need them, depending on the weather, but they can make a big difference when the temperature drops.  

A packable waterproof jacket and/or a compact travel umbrella plus a strong, comfortable daypack are ideal for spring in London. 

Visiting London in Spring | FAQs

Spring in London means less crowds than in summer, and longer hours of daylight than autumn. March, April and May are also warmer than winter, with around eight or nine days of rain per month on average. Temperatures tend to range between 6°C and 18°C (43°F to 64°F). 

Easter takes place between March and April, and there are bank (public) holidays on Good Friday and Easter Monday. Places that usually open on Sundays may also be closed on Easter Sunday. 

While it can still be cold in London during March, it’s warmer than winter. There are also longer hours of daylight. Apart from when Easter falls in March, tourist numbers are lower than in late spring and summer, early autumn, or around Christmas and New Year. 

April weather is generally mild in London, though there can be some cold and cloudy days. Other days might be warmer and sunnier. Expect some April showers, however, and keep in mind that it can be crowded around Easter time, especially during the school holidays.  

As it’s close to the summer solstice, you can expect long spring days during May in London. The weather is also warming up as summer approaches, but the UK capital is much quieter than in June, July and August.

Keep in mind that there are two bank (public) holidays in May – one at the start of the month and one at the end (both Mondays)

10 Top Things to do in London in Spring

There’s lots to do when you’re visiting London in spring. Here are some suggestions for the best places to go during spring.

• When : when pubs are open: 11 am to 11 pm is average
• Wher e: all over London
• Closest tube : varies

If you’ll be in London on 17th March, don’t miss the chance to join in with the local St. Patrick’s Day festivities. Incongruously, it’s much bigger in England than St. George’s Day – go figure. 

Anyway, expect lots of emerald, plus the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which takes place on the closest Sunday to the date, and travels between Hyde Park Corner and Whitehall. There’s also a festival market at Trafalgar Square. Or head to any Irish pub: the city has so many. 

• When : daily services
• Where : Westminster Pier to Greenwich Pier
• Closest tube : Westminster or Cutty Sark (DLR)

We love Greenwich and reckon no visit to London is complete without going there! Take a cruise on the Thames for a unique perspective on the city. It’s also the best way to travel between the city and Greenwich. 

Click here to book a Westminster to Greenwich river cruise

• Where : by the Thames

London has so many lovely riverside pubs, which in turn offer the best beer gardens in the city. Head to Chelsea, Chiswick, Wandsworth or Richmond, for example, and simply wander along by the river until you find one. You can simply stop for a drink, or linger for longer by tucking into some yummy pub grub. 

• When : 10 am to 6 pm in March: 10 am to 7 pm in April and May
• Where : Kew, southwest London
• Closest tube : Kew Gardens

There’s no finer time to see Kew Gardens than in spring. Everything is in bloom, with colourful blossoms everywhere. Bluebell season also peaks in April to mid-May. You can also see cherry blossoms if you visit before late May. 

Click here to buy tickets for Kew Gardens

• When : Late May – check here
• Where : Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), Vincent Square, London
• Closest tube : Victoria

The Chelsea Flower Show is a British institution, and ideal for those who haven’t yet had their fill of flora. Taking place in late May, there’s a multitude of gardens to explore, including one solely for children. You’ll also find inspiration for any size of garden, even if all you have is a balcony or space for a few containers. 

• When : any time
• Where : River Thames
• Closest tube : Blackfriars

The Millenium Bridge – aka the Wobbly Bridge – is at its best in spring because of the cherry blossom in the churchyard at St. Paul’s Cathedral. It’s free to wander across at any time of the day, and it no longer wobbles! You can also see all the activity on the River Thames as the city springs into life. 

• Where : all over London

London has plentiful parks and they are also at their best in spring. Head to Hyde Park and you can take a pedalo boat onto the Serpentine, or pack a picnic for St. James’ Park. Regents Park to the north is also convenient to combine with London Zoo or Camden Market. 

• When: by arrangement with our London photographer Domi of Scalens Studio (who took all the photos of me in this article!)
• Where: all over London
• Closest tube: varies

We had a photoshoot in London last spring, and it was one of the most memorable parts of our trip. Ours took place in Notting Hill, but you could choose any location that appeals to you.

You can keep the pictures for a lifetime, reminding you of your London adventures even many years later.

Click to book a photoshoot with Domi of Scalens Studio

• When: any time

If you are in Notting Hill for a photoshoot, to see the streets where movies were filmed or to go to Portobello Road Market, then look up so you don’t miss the cherry blossom and wisteria decorating the trees and buildings. 

There are many places to see cherry blooms in the capital, including Kew Gardens, the royal parks, St. Paul’s cathedral churchyard, and more. For wisteria, you can head to Holland Park and nearby Kensington, as well as Notting Hill.

• When: by arrangement
• Where: Numerous day trip options including Cambridge, Hever Castle, Windsor, the Cotswolds etc
• Closest tube: Check the pickup point

Whether you feel like escaping the city or would like to see another side of British life, taking a trip out of London in spring is a lovely idea.

Destination ideas we love and can recommend include the university city of Cambridge on the River Cam, Hever Castle in Kent where the Boleyns once lived, or Windsor , where Queen Elizabeth II is buried.

With so much to do, plus mild weather, lengthening days, and fewer visitors than in summer , spring is the perfect time to visit London.

Hopefully you’ll get lucky with the weather, so you can spend some time outdoors, and the fine parks are always free to visit. Even if it’s all April showers, the free museums and galleries in the city could keep you busy for weeks!

• London in January
• London in February
• London in March
• London in April
• London in May
• London in June
• London in July
• London in August

London in Autumn

• London in September
• London in October
• London in November
• London in December

London Travel Guide & Itinerary Planner Ebook (+ 4 BONUS ebooks)

Visiting London in Spring (29 best things to see and do)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 14, 2023

Are you planning to visit London in spring? At this time of year, spring flowers are in full bloom and it’s less crowded than the busy summer months. The darkness of winter has lifted and the days become longer and the weather milder. This is the perfect time to enjoy London’s parks and gardens and spend some time outdoors.

During the months of spring, there are a number of bank holiday weekends (bank holidays = public holidays) as well as Easter holidays to enjoy as well as events such as the Chelsea Flower Show.

In this article, we have put together a list of 29 things to do while visiting London in springtime including some of the famous events you can enjoy at this time of year.

1. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

2. join an organised sightseeing tour around london, 3. take a boat ride along the thames, 4. take a stroll through a london park, 5. enjoy a meal with a view, 6. have a drink in a london pub, 7. shop til you drop, 8. take a ride on the london eye, 9. escape the city on a day trip from london, 10. explore a london market, 11. catch a show or concert.

• 12. Book a photo shoot in front of some of London's most iconic landmarks
• 13. Visit one of London's most beautiful and historic churches

14. Admire views of London from the Shard

• 15. Visit some of London's free attractions
• 16. Visit one of London's popular museums

17. Visit Hampton Court Palace

18. take a tour of the tower of london, 19. put a foot in two hemispheres at greenwich, 20. enjoy spring blooms at kew gardens, 21. visit kensington palace and gardens, 22. sample some delicious british cuisine and enjoy a traditional sunday roast with all the trimmings.

• 23. Explore London's trendy East End and check out some of the best street art in the city

24. Take a walk or ride on a boat along the picturesque canals of Little Venice

25. watch a football match at the emirates stadium or stamford bridge – home to arsenal and chelsea, 26. enjoy views from the sky garden, 27. have a harry potter themed day, 28. enjoy the bank holidays* in may, 29. popular spring events in london, tips for visiting london whatever the season, london travel guide & itinerary planner (+ 4 bonus ebooks), enjoying spring in london – 29 things to do and see.

What better than to enjoy a bit of pomp and ceremony during your spring season visit to London. The ceremony is free to watch and takes place outside Buckingham Palace from 10:45 to 11:30 am.

The ceremony does not take place every day so it is important to check on the official website for dates though generally, these are Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

Read: Guide to the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

There are many sightseeing tours to choose from in London which cater for all interests and needs. Choose from themed walking tours including Harry Potter, Jack the Ripper, street art or those which include many of London’s major landmarks and attractions.

Some of our favourites include:

• Magical London: Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour – Walk in the footsteps of your favorite wizards (and witches) around Muggle London. Your Harry Potter enthusiast guide will be armed with weird and wonderful trivia all along the way. 
• Jack the Ripper Interactive Guided Walking Tour – Embark on an interactive Jack the Ripper walking tour around Victorian London, with your very own suspect cards and Ripperologist guide leading the way.
• Ghastly Ghosts 2-Hour Walking Tour – Sneak through the dark streets of London on a 2-hour ghastly ghosts tour, and hear spooky stories of the ghouls, ghosts and specters that creep through the city’s back alleys after dusk. Enjoy a spine-tingling walk from the Tower of London to St. Paul’s.

Take a boat ride on the River Thames from Westminster Pier near Big Ben to Greenwich Pier. Greenwich has many attractions worth visiting including the Royal Observatory, the Queen’s House and the Cutty Sark.

There are many boat trips and cruises to choose from. You can even buy tickets for an evening ride that includes dinner with champagne!

What a perfect way to end a day sightseeing in London!

Read – Guide to the best boat trips and river cruises in London & Best things to see and do in Greenwich (One day Greenwich itinerary)

Get outdoors and enjoy some nature by going for a walk in London parks such as Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, or Richmond Park.

Feed the ducks in St James’s Park, go for a walk or a picnic at Hampstead Heath where you may even spot some of the deer who live in the park.

In spring there are trees full of cherry blossoms in Regent’s Park plus gorgeous flowers in bloom around the city which makes for stunning photos.

Eat out at one of London’s amazing restaurants – there are so many choices, from Indian to Italian, Japanese to Thai, and everything in between.

For the best fish and chips in London Poppies in Spitalfields comes highly recommended.

Check out the bars and restaurants in Soho and Camden – two of London’s most vibrant areas

And for the best views in London head to the Aqua Shard , the Duck and Waffle or Fenchurch Restaurant at the Sky Garden.

Have a drink in one of the many pubs or bars in London – there’s definitely something for everyone!

Popular pubs include the Lamb and Flag in Covent Garden, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese in Fleet Street, The George London Bridge, and the Seven Stars in Holborn.

Shop ’til you drop at some of London’s best shopping destinations, including Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Carnaby Street.

Go shopping at Harrods, one of the world’s most famous and iconic department stores.

Other famous shops not to miss include Liberty, Selfridges and Fortnum and Mason.

Taking a ride on the London Eye – at 135 metres high – it’s the perfect way to see all of London’s amazing sights!

Read: Guide to visiting the London Eye including tips plus best ticket options

If you have time do take the opportunity to take a day trip out of London to see some of the amazing places,sights and landmarks that are within easy reach, such as Windsor Castle, Bath, or Brighton.

There are lots of tours available if you feel unsure about organising the trip independently though many of the places are easy to get to by train.

Read – Best day trips from London | Best day trips from London by train | 7 Castles to visit near London

Make a trip to one of London’s many markets and pick up some souvenirs to take home with you – there’s something for everyone, from Camden Market for fashion, music and art to Borough Market for delicious fresh produce.

Visit Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill and shop for some souvenirs and gifts.

Read more – Complete Guide to 9 of London’s best markets

If you enjoy theatre make sure to add at least one show in the world-famous West End theatre district .

Some of the most popular shows for 2022 include Frozen , Wicked, Moulin Rouge, The Life of Pi,  Back To The Future, Pretty Woman, Dirty Dancing and Mamma Mia – musts for fans of the movies. 

Pride and Prejudice (sort of) , and The Great Gatsby are more focused on literature. Music lovers, meanwhile, may enjoy musicals based around Tina Turner or Bob Marley, while Agatha Christie devotees will love The Mousetrap or Witness for the Prosecution .   

Click here for London theatre tickets

For music lovers check out the O2 Arena – it’s London’s biggest entertainment venue and hosts many popular live music events.

12. Book a photo shoot in front of some of London’s most iconic landmarks

Everyone wants a selfie in front of Tower Bridge or Big Ben – two of London’s most iconic landmarks – don’t they?

So why not treat yourself to a photoshoot with a professional photographer for stunning images and cherish special memories of your trip?

Book a photoshoot with Scalens Studio here – use code UKTP10 and get 10 extra images for free!

13. Visit one of London’s most beautiful and historic churches

There are many beautiful churches and famous churches to add to your London itinerary.

• Marvel at the beauty of St Paul’s Cathedral
• Westminster Abbey is a UNESCO World Heritage site and where many coronations and Royal weddings have been held. It is also the burial ground for many famous figures including Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin and Professor Stephen Hawking.
• Southwark Cathedral is one of the largest cathedral in London and is home to beautiful stained glass windows. Include in a visit to nearby Borough Market.
• St Dunstan-in-the-East is a hidden gem in London. Located in the City of London these stunning ruins are not to be missed. They make a stunning backdrop for photoshoots.

Book a photoshoot with Scalens Studio here – use the code UKTP10 and get 10 extra images for free!

For stunning views of London book tickets for The Shard. It is the UK’s tallest building and offers a 360-degree panoramic view. Designed by architect Renzo Piano construction was completed in 2012.

Entrance to the Shard is included in the London Pass.

There are a number of restaurants to choose from at The Shard and if you want to treat yourself to a luxury hotel stay in London why not book a few nights at the 5 star Shangri-La Hotel located over 19 floors.

15. Visit some of London’s free attractions

If you are visiting London and looking for ways to save a little (London is an expensive city) it is good to know there are ways to budget

Free attractions include

• Museums such as the British Museum, Natural History Museum, V&A and Science Museum.
• Art galleries including the National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery, Tate and Tate Modern.
• Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
• London markets including Camden Market and Portobello Market.

Read – Free things to do and see in London

16. Visit one of London’s popular museums

There are many world-class museums in London to visit – most of which are completely free. However, to make the most of your visit it is possible to book a private tour and learn about museum exhibits in greater detail.

Private tours at the British Museum include:

• Small group private tour of the British Musuem
• Private tour of the British Musem for Children and Families

There are also exhibitions or experiences that we highly recommend booking tickets for this spring. Our top choices include:

• Wonderlab at the Science Museum (perfect for kids)
• The Stonehenge Exhibition at the British Museum (until July 17)
• Selfie central – Van Gogh Self Portraits at Courtauld Gallery (until May 8)
• Beatrix Potter: Drawn to Nature at The Victoria and Albert Museum (until Sept 25)

Hampton Court Palace is one of the most famous palaces in England. The Tudor palace was a favourite of Henry VIII and it is here that his wife Jane Seymour died after giving birth to Henry’s only son.

The Palace is located 12 miles south west of London but is relatively easy to get to on public transport.

If you are a Tudor history fan then a visit to Hampton Court should be a must in your itinerary.

Visit the Tower of London and learn about its dark history as a prison and a place of execution! I recommend visiting whatever time of year you are in London (it is one of the most popular things to do and see in London so book your tickets ahead of time)

Good to know – If you are visiting London in Summer or Fall of 2022 don’t miss Superbloom which is being held at the Tower of London to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

Read – Guide to visiting the Tower of London

Actually, spend the day in Greenwich and enjoy the many attractions and sights in this often missed area of London! Hop on a boat at Westminister Pier and take a ride along the Thames to Greenwich.

• Gaze up at the beautiful architecture of one of Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpieces at The Royal Naval College in Greenwich and admire the Painted Hall (often described as Britain’s Sistine Chapel)
• Visit the Queen’s House and marvel at the Tulip Staircase
• Explore the Royal Observatory and stand with a foot in each hemisphere.
• Climb aboard the world’s last surviving tea clipper the Cutty Sark.
• Explore the National Maritime Museum.
• For the adventurous why not climb the roof of the O2 arena or take the Emirates cable car from

Head out to Kew Gardens to see some of the most amazing botanical gardens in the world. See the daffodils, tulips and other spring blooms in the gardens.

Queen Victoria was born at Kensington Palace and it has traditionally been the home of the younger royals. At present, it is the official residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and family.

Don’t miss the King’s State Apartments, King’s Staircase, the King’s Gallery, the Queen’s State Apartments, the Jewel Room (including Queen Victoria’s tiara) and of course the beautiful gardens during your visit.

Exhibitions are held at the Palace every year. In 2022 the exhibition is entitled ‘Life through a Royal Lens” and explores the Royal Family’s relationships with the camera. Entrance to the exhibition is included in your Kensington Palace entrance ticket.

Afternoon tea at the Kensington Gardens Pavilion is a popular choice for visitors too. (The Pavilion has replaced the Orangery during renovations due to be completed in 2022)

There are lots of fabulous places to eat in London (to suit all tastes) but one meal we highly recommend is a traditional British Sunday roast with Yorkshire Puddings and all the trimmings.

Recommendations include

• The Harwood Arms in Fulham
• Roast at Borough Market
• The Royal Oak (near Columbia Road Flower market)
• Hawsksmoor – Numerous locations across London
• Blacklock in Soho

Read – 39 Traditional British foods thats will make your mouth water

23. Explore London’s trendy East End and check out some of the best street art in the city

If you enjoy street art head to the East End of London – we recommend this walking tour if you pushed for time and want to see the area.

• Shoreditch and Brick Lane (East London)
• Camden (North London)
• Walthamstow (North London)
• The Leake Street Arches Grafitti Tunnel – this 300 metre tunnel is located underneath Waterloo Station and is a must for street art lovers (Central London)

The Thames is not the only place you can take a boat ride in London! Head to Little Venice in west London for a different experience and a boat trip along the beautiful canals and waterways.

Why not enjoy Enjoy a leisurely one-way guided waterbus boat trip along the Regent’s Canal ? Take the boat between Camden Town and Little Venice and enjoy sights such as the London Zoo along the way.

The football season ends at the end of May but there are still many matches to enjoy during the spring months.

If you are an Arsenal, Tottenham Hottspur or Chelsea fan your dream may be to attend a match at their home grounds. Tickets are notoriously difficult to get a hold of and you may have to head to a local supporters pub to enjoy the match instead.

Alternatively, why not take a tour of your team ground on a non-match day?

• Book an Emirates stadium tour
• The tour of Chelsea’s football ground Stamford Bridge is included in the London Pass
• Book a Tottenham Hotspur Stadium visit: The Dare Skywalk Experience
• Book a private London Football and Stadiums Taxi Tour

A fantastic view of London without the pricetag of the London Eye or Shard the Sky Garden is London’s highest public garden.

Book tickets 3 weeks before your visit (don’t forget as this is a very popular attraction) The Sky Garden is open weekdays from 10 am – 6 pm and weekends from 11 am – 9 pm.

With so many Harry Potter sites to visit in London, you can easily spend the day enjoying a Harry Potter style treasure hunt to see all the places where the movies were filmed .

Sites to visit include

• King’s Cross station
• Leadenhall Market
• The Millennium Bridge
• London ZooA
• Australia House (Gringott’s Bank)

Alternatively, join one of the many Harry Potter tours available to book in London.

Why not book a stay at the Georgian House Hotel ? They have Harry Potter themed rooms perfect for budding witches and wizards and also offer an enchanted afternoon tea!

Read – How to visit Harry Potter Studios from London

There are usually 2 bank holidays (public holidays) on the first Monday and the last Monday of May. However, as this year is the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee the second holiday has been moved to Friday the 3rd June (and an additional public holiday added on Thursday 2nd June!

• Oxford Cambridge boat race – April 3rd
• Vaisakhi Festival in Trafalgar Square – April TBC
• Join the Eid Festival celebrations in Trafalgar Square – 7 May
• FA Cup Final – 14 May
• Chelsea Flower Show Royal Hospital Chelsea other flowers – 24/28 May

Take a selfie at one of London’s iconic red phone booths! Not sure where to find them? Read our article and choose from 9 locations of the top phone boxes in London .

As you have read there are so many great things to do in London in spring. In fact, there’s always something to do in London, no matter what time of year you visit!

• If you are planning to visit London during another season why not check out these articles:
• What to pack if you are visiting London in winter
• Guide to what to see and do in London in summer
• Ultimate guide to whats on in London in autumn
• Read more about visiting London in these related articles:
• London Travel Guide – links to everything you need to know to plan your trip
• Looking for accommodation? Read our guide to where to stay in London
• First time visitors? Read our top tips for visiting London for the first time
• How to get around London? Read our guide to using public transport in London and our guide to London’s manin trains stations.
• What to see and do – Complete London bucket list with guide to all the top sights and attractions & Guide to the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
• How to purchase tickets for London attractions – Guide to purchasing tickets for the lost popular London attractions & Best London bus tours reviewed
• Boat trips and cruises – Comparison guide to the best boat trips and cruises on the Thames
• Visiting on a budget? Read out budget guide to London with tips to save money when visiting
• Free things to do in London – Discover 32 free things to see and do in London
• Best day trips? Read our guide to the best day trips by train and ou r guide to the best tours from London
• Love castles? Our guide to the most popular castles to visit from London
• Beatles fan? Read our guide to the Beatles in London

What’s London like in April? Read this blog to know

Things to do in London London Travel Guide Best Time to Visit London London in April

With spring in full swing, London awakens to longer days and milder weather, enticing locals and tourists alike to its abundant parks and outdoor cafes. Blossoming flowers add a splash of color to the historic cityscape, while alfresco dining becomes increasingly popular. Additionally, the Thames-side walks become particularly inviting as the city sheds its winter cloak, and the warmer temperatures often give way to a host of outdoor activities and festivities, reflecting the capital's vibrant and ever-adaptive spirit.

What makes London in April Special?

April is kind of a midway for London, the weather is still in the middle of a transition and so is the tourist season. The onset of spring allows you to experience mild chill during early morning and evening hours and mild heat during the day. The flowers are starting to bloom and while the cherry blossoms , daffodils, and bluebells among others dip the whole of London in an avalanche of colors, they also give the air a beautifully musky tinge.

A perfect time to explore sites of London and engage in outdoorsy activities like the London Marathon , Underbelly Festival , Easter hunts etc. Additionally, being a shoulder season the capital city is not jam-packed with tourists, lesser time spent waiting in line and more time spent in enjoying the views. Notably, you can attend the world-famous “Changing of Guard” ceremony since, in April, it commences on a daily basis.

London in April : Weather

The temperature of London during April can tip in any direction - it can be warm, chilly, sunny or rainy. Days get warmer as the month progresses, with average daily highs and lows increasing from 13°C to 16°C and 7°C to 9°C respectively, from 1 st to 30 th . Average sunshine is for eight hours each day and rain is expected for about 18-19 days.

Visiting London in April : Things to do

Tower of london.

Like a wonderfully illustrious page from the history of the Royals, The Tower of London , one of the biggest tourist attractions of London, lets you explore the monumental White Tower, the infamous Ravens, the impressive collections of the Royal Mint and the Crown Jewels. You can also opt for the Yeoman Warder Tours.

April Timings Wed - Sun - 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Fri/Sat/Tue: 9 am - 5:30 pm Sun & Mon: 10 am - 5:30 pm

St Katharine's & Wapping, London EC3N 4AB, UK Getting There ›

Covered with over 11,000 glass panels on its exterior, the tallest building in Western Europe is an eyeful in itself. In addition, you can ascend to a height of 800 feet to discover the panoramic view of London from the open-air Skydeck situated on the 72nd floor.

April Timings Daily 1 pm - 9 pm. For timings on specific days, check here

32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, UK Getting There ›

Westminster Abbey

A notable structure in British history, the gothic church bore witness to royal coronations, weddings, burial of monarchs and notable Britishers. Adorned with stained glass windows, paintings, sculptures, and religious artifacts, Westminster Abbey is also known for its exceptional choir services, which is especially magical in during Easter time.

April Timings

Mon - Fri - 9:30 am - 3:30 pm Sat - 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Closed on Sunday Timings are subject to change regularly; visit the official website for confirmation.

20 Deans Yd, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA, UK Getting There ›

Kensington Palace

Home to the Royal Family since the 17th century, Kensington Palace’s current residents are Kate and William a.k.a the Duke and the Duchess of Cambridge, along with their children. April with its blooming spring lends exceptional beauty to the world-famous Orangery and the well-manicured gardens of the Palace.

Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX, UK Getting There ›

Stonehenge - Day Trip

The prehistoric monument made up of standing stones befuddle historians and archaeologists, as even today, the exact utility, details of construction, and purpose of Stonehenge remain a mystery. Explore this mystery and get a glimpse into the life of neolithic era - the structures, tools and objects used 4,500 years ago.

April Timings Daily - 9:30 am to 7:00 pm

Amesbury, Salisbury SP4 7DE, UK Getting There ›

River Thames Cruise

Explore London while cruising over the river that has stood with the city since its inception. During April, fresh blooms enrich the city which can be observed alongside some of London’s oldest and most impressive landmarks such as the London Eye , Shakespeare’s Globe , Westminster Abbey, and Big Ben among others.

Pipers Island, Bridge St, Reading RG4 8AH, UK Getting There ›

A West End Show

London’s West End aka the entertainment district or the "Theatreland", houses around 40 theatres that tend to musicals, classic plays and comedies. During April 2019, you can catch musicals like Wicked , Mamma Mia , Les Miserables , and Phantom of the Opera to plays like Betrayal, All About Eve , and The Mousetrap .

40 Bloomsbury Way Lower Ground Floor, London WC1A 2SE, UK Getting There ›

ZSL London Zoo

Housing over 700 species, the London Zoo is one of the largest, most diverse, and most fascinating zoos in the entire world. You can feed, interact, and observe animals and birds in their habitats through various exhibits including the Tiger Territory, Penguin Beach, Gorilla Kingdom, Spiders among others.

April Timings 10:00 am - 5:00 pm daily Last entry is at 3:00 PM

London NW1 4RY, UK Getting There ›

Harry Potter Tour

Whether via studio set-ups or live locations, London has been a massive part of the Harry Potter universe. Depending upon a chosen tour, you will be transported to various iconic locations from both the books as well as the movies such as the Great Hall, the Forbidden Forest, and Platform 9 and 3/4.

Studio Tour Dr, Leavesden WD25 7LR, UK Getting There ›

A Stadium Tour

Home to several leading football clubs of England, the capital city celebrates Football as its most popular sport, both in terms of participants and spectators. A London stadium tour will not only pump up your love for the sport but also satiate your thirst for football trivia and paraphernalia.

London, UK Getting There ›

London in April : Events to Look Out For

English Premier League

August 2023 - May 2024 The English Premier League will be in full-swing during the month of April as end of season approaches. A true-blue football fan is in for a treat every Saturday with matches like Liverpool v Sheffield United, Chelsea vs Manchester United, Arsenal v Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur vs Manchester City among others.

London Marathon

April 21, 2024 Every year, while the runners compete in a 42.2km race through the capital city that weaves through various important landmarks including the London Eye, the Tower of London and finishes at the mall in front of Buckingham Palace; a hoard of spectators cheers the athletes from their vantage points.

London in April : 5-day Itinerary

Explore the city of London with a 5 day itinerary that takes in all the culture, attractions, shopping, and nightlife the city has to offer.

London April Essentials

Language English

Time zone GMT+1

Country Code +44

Socket Type G

Currency Pound (£, GBP)

Where to Stay in London during April

In terms of lodging, London can come as across slightly expensive even in April. The capital city has a plethora of choices ranging from luxury hotels to hostels to suit your budget. Noting the formidable size of London, it is important to first zero in on a neighborhood and look for accommodation accordingly.

• Luxury Hotels - Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, The Connaught, The Savoy
• Mid-Range Hotels - The Soho, The Montague On The Gardens, The Chesterfield Mayfair
• Budget Stays - Premier Inn Leicester Square, SoHostel, The Hide London

What to Pack for Visiting London in April

April is at best unpredictable and thus your travel essentials should be accordingly - an umbrella for those occasional rains, a thick windcheater that can double up as a jacket for cooler mornings or evenings, and lightweight attires for warmer days. The smartest thing to do is to bring clothing that can be altered according to the day’s temperature in addition to a scarf/hat, sufficient sunscreen, and shades.

Getting Around London in April

The 32 territories or boroughs in London are divided into nine fare zones, with zones 1 & 2 being central London. The city offers extensive options for public transportation including the underground tube, overground, DLR (Docklands Light Railway), River Boat, rail services, bus, tram, and taxis.

Tube offers the most convenient and fastest way as it connects all major boroughs. The double-decker bus that sometimes features on London’s postcards also enjoys great connectivity. The London Taxi is also a convenient way, though slightly expensive. You can also hire cycles to explore the city from a more economical perspective.

Must-Try Dishes While Visiting London in April

Traditionally eaten with mushy peas and garnished with salt and vinegar, there’s nothing more British that the humble Fish & Chips. Mostly you’ll spot a massive basket of fish and chips on almost every pub’s menu and different versions of it in the elitest of restaurants as well. Where to order : Poppy’s , Golden Union , Rock & Sole Plaice

A pure British classic, the Sunday roast is traditionally eaten any time from 12 noon to 5pm on Sundays. Traditionally served with beef, you can get a turkey, chicken, pork, lamb or veggie serving as well. For the top-end experience, what matters most is where you choose to have your Yorkshire pudding. Where to order : The Three Stags , The Windsor Castle , Marksman Pub

The English Breakfast is a mighty meal that will surely induce the right kind of food coma. A perfect hangover recipe, it traditionally includes sausages, eggs, mushrooms, tomatoes, blood pudding, potatoes, and toast. Your trip won’t be considered complete if you leave London without indulging in a proper English breakfast. Where to order : Breakfast Club , Chunnel Bar

A British classic that is flaky, juicy and filling when cooked right, Beef Wellington is a London signature. Traditionally, a filet steak is covered with pate, wrapped in puff pastry and baked. Modern versions have different types of protein baked in pastry, include sausage and salmon and even a mushroom version to appease the growing population of vegans. Where to order : Simpsons in the Strand , Hawksmoor

A spiced sweet bun that is marked with a cross on the top and made using currants or raisins. Traditionally eaten during Easter, the cross represents the crucifixion of Jesus, and the spices signify the spices used to embalm him at his burial. Most bakeries prepare it during the month of April. Where to order : Popham's Bakery , Fortitude Bakehouse , The Good Egg

Tips for Visiting London in April

• Dress Code : Places of worship like the Westminster Abbey asks the visitors to dress modestly and sensitively. Bear the same in mind when visiting the special Easter services.
• Pre-book : While April is a shoulder season for London, it does tend to get a little crowded. Book your hotels, passes, entry tickets in advance as per your itinerary to have a smooth and pocket-friendly trip.
• Check weather forecasts : Do check the weather before you start packing for London, make note of the forecasts made. Also check weather before your daily excursions to plan your days outfit accordingly.
• Springtime walk : London is dotted with blooming gardens and beautiful green spaces, make sure you add one or more such places in your itinerary in order to experience the onset of spring and in turn, the city at its most beautiful.
• Passes : London can be daunting for budget travelers and a smooth and simple way to manage your expenses is to avail passes like the London pass or the Visitor Oyster Card that ideally suits your itinerary.

Explore London by Months

Arun George

A writer who doubles as a food, film, and music guide, Arun spent a good part of his life pursuing Business Management courses that no longer make sense to him. He worked in Dubai as an Accountant for 3.5 years before returning to the city he keeps referring to as 'second home' - Bangalore. Travelling is also one of his interests although he doesn't go by bucket-lists anymore.

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London in April: Weather, Events, and Things to Do

April is a fantastic time to visit London, with spring in full bloom and summer just around the corner. Whether you’re a foodie, art lover, or sci-fi enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in the bustling capital this month. From food festivals to art exhibitions and even intergalactic adventures, London has it all.

In this article, we’ll explore the best things to do in London in April, as well as provide practical tips for exploring the city during this time of year. So grab your calendar and get ready to plan your perfect London itinerary.

• 0.1 Key Takeaways
• 1.1 Bask in the Glory of Rave Culture
• 1.2 See the Rosettis
• 1.3 Explore a Festival of South East Asian Art
• 1.4 Watch a Rock Opera on the Life of Tony Blair
• 1.5 Sample the Best of Sicily
• 1.6 See the Best of Bowie at the Southbank
• 1.7 Check Out the Sony World Photography Awards
• 1.8 Break Out of a Kettle Chips Escape Room
• 1.9 Hit a Warehouse Party
• 1.10 Shop for Vintage Goodies at the Classic Car Boot Sale
• 2 Practical Tips for Exploring London in April

Key Takeaways

• London offers a diverse range of activities for visitors in April, including food festivals, art exhibitions, and sci-fi events.
• It’s an ideal time to explore the city, with spring in full bloom and summer just around the corner.
• Visitors can make the most of their trip by planning ahead and taking advantage of practical tips for exploring London in April.

Things to Do in London in April

Bask in the glory of rave culture.

On the 1st of April, Islington will host a mini day-festival that celebrates British rave culture . This event will feature the best music from past, present, and future. The festival will be part party, part record fair, and part art exhibition. DJ’s Pete Cannon, Warlock, Choci, Louise Plus One, and Hughesee will be presiding over the decks with heaps of acts following them to mix over. Tickets are available for purchase.

See the Rosettis

From 6th April to 24th September, Tate Britain will feature a new exhibition of the Rossettis. This show will chart the works of the Rossetti generation of artists, a group that had a radical effect on the art world that can still be felt today. Visitors will be able to see the art that kicked off the Pre Raphaelite movement, as well as much of the art that defined it. It’s no small show either. Two records will be broken here: the show will be the largest collection of Dante Gabriel Rossetti’s work in two decades, and the largest of Elizabeth Siddal in 30 years.

Explore a Festival of South East Asian Art

Kakilang is a festival celebrating art from all around the very broad, and evidently very talented region of South East Asia. The festival is taking place all over the city and in a range of disciplines from photography to dance, music, and even a few digital art exhibitions. The festival will run until 22nd April.

Watch a Rock Opera on the Life of Tony Blair

From 15th April to 21st May 2023, Leicester Square Theatre will host a hilarious musical that follows the life of ex-prime minister Tony Blair. The Tony Blair Rock Opera is written by Harry Hill and Steve Brown. It was very well received when it opened at the Park Theatre Last Year. This stint at the Leicester Square Theatre kicks off the start of their UK tour.

Sample the Best of Sicily

From 20th to 23rd April, Angel will host Sicily Fest, a four-day celebration of Italy’s food-obsessed island. Sicilian chefs from all around London are coming out of the woodwork to cook up a storm. They’ll also be hosting masterclasses, shaking up cocktails, and holding wine-tasting events.

See the Best of Bowie at the Southbank

2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the release of Bowie’s hit album Aladdin Sane. To mark the momentous musical occasion, The Southbank Centre is holding a near-month long celebration of one of the man himself. It’s kicking off with art exhibitions centered around the iconic lightning bolt portrait by Brian Duffy, then delving into the influence the album has had on everything from fashion to queer culture. To top it all off, the string of celebrations will crescendo with a run of poetry nights and live performances where you can hear the album performed live and reimagined by the Nu Civilization Orchestra.

Check Out the Sony World Photography Awards

From 14th April to 1st May, Somerset House is once again home to one of the best events in London April 2023 – Sony’s World Photography Awards. The exhibition will showcase the outstanding work by the winners and shortlisted photographers in a number of categories – everything from landscape and portraiture to architecture is covered.

Break Out of a Kettle Chips Escape Room

From 14th to 16th April, Kettle Chips (as in crisps) are putting up an escape room in Shoreditch for a few days this month. London’s already got plenty of twists on the escape room challenge but it hasn’t yet got one where you have to solve puzzles and crack codes to get your hands on snacks. Word is there are two new, yet-to-be-released flavors to be found in the mysterious corridors of this admittedly novel way to get your hands on some munch.

Hit a Warehouse Party

On 15th April, some organizers are throwing a party that’s locking down a warehouse space on Leake Street, London’s legal graffiti tunnel. They’ve been doing this a while now, and they know what makes a party work. In this case, it’s a careful mix of DJs commanding the decks, some good-quality food, and people shaking up cocktails to loosen you up for the dance floor.

Shop for Vintage Goodies at the Classic Car Boot Sale

On 15th and 16th April, King’s Cross looks set to be jam-packed with vintage goods, retro homeware, and second-hand fashion, with the return of the Classic Car Boot Sale. Alongside an array of antiquities for you to peruse, expect a showcase of classic cars and tunes courtesy of live DJs, alongside plenty of street food and craft beer

Practical Tips for Exploring London in April

When exploring London in April , it is important to be prepared for the weather. While it may be slightly less cold than previous months, there is still a high chance of rain . It is recommended to pack an umbrella and bring a jacket to avoid getting caught in the rain.

Additionally, if you plan on dining out at new restaurant and bar openings, it is worth booking in advance. These spots tend to fill up quickly when they first open, and you don’t want your evening to be spoiled by being turned away. Nightjar is a popular spot that is known to fill up quickly, so it’s best to plan ahead.

Map & Family

For curious travellers

April London Weather + Things to Do: by a Local

02.17.2024 by Map & Family // Leave a Comment

It may be Springtime but what’s April weather in London England really like? Is April a good time to visit and what should you pack? Here’s a real local’s eye view: from April temperatures in London and what to wear, to seasonal things to do and events in the capital. Find out all the pros and cons of visiting London in April.

This post contains affiliate links, this means that I may receive a commission – at no cost to you – if you click a link and make a purchase. 

Is the April weather in London England rainy, warm or rather chilly? Will you need to pack warm jackets or summer dresses? And what’s April in London like for visitors? I’ve lived in London all my adult life, so here are the facts you need about the weather for London in April and fun things to do in Springtime in our capital city.

Table of Contents

What is April London weather really like?

April weather in London is famously varied, not only though the month but also year by year. It is quite possible to head out on a walk in a thick winter coat in April, and then a couple of weeks later be soaking up the rays in a tee-shirt. I think of April as the very beginnings of the summer season: the days are getting longer and sunnier and we can put away winter clothes!

All my photos in this post were taken in London in April, over the last few years.

April London weather facts

The average temperature in London in April is 9°C (48.2°F) with average highs of 13°C and lows of 6°C. I’ve experienced cooler spells in April too, even a bit of snow, as well as occasional years when the mercury has risen above 20°C (68°F). Daily temperatures can gradually increase across the course of the month – this isn’t guaranteed either. They are a little lower than the May temperatures in London.

April London weather includes cloudy skies and sunny days . You can expect an average of 5 hours of sunshine daily, which is a significant improvement on March. And by late April these sunshine hours should hopefully be increasing.

April is one of the driest months of the year in London. The average rainfall is 43 mm over 16 days.

London snow in April is unlikely – but it’s not unknown . If it does snow in April it usually only stays around for a day or two.

So those are the facts. Statistics for April London weather in 2023 show that we had 12 sunny days, cloudy skies on 7 days and rain of some sort on 11 days.

London weather year round

To get an idea of how April London weather compares to the rest of the year here are some London climate facts. Bearing in mind, as the Met Office points out: “The UK is well known for the variability of its weather”….

• January is the coldest month in London with the mean minimum temperature around 3°C.
• July is the warmest month in London with mean daily maximum temperatures of 23.5°C (74.3°F).
• The wettest month in London tends to be November, whilst March and April are some of the driest.
• Heatwaves can happen during July or August and usually last for several days. Thanks to the urban heat-island effect the UK capital can be one of the hottest spots in the country.
• The hottest day of the year in London in 2023 was 33.2°C (91.8°F) on 9 Sept. In 2022 the hottest day was 19 July when temperatures hit 40°C (104°F).
• The coldest day of the year in London in 2023 was 23 Jan, when temperatures dropped to -7°C(24.8°F) in the early hours of the morning, though they rose to 5°C (41°F) during the day.

Hours of daylight in London in April

As April temperatures in London rise, the Spring days get longer too.

British Summer Time begins on Sunday 31 March in 2024, when the nation puts its clocks one hour ahead. This creates lighter evenings and darker mornings, and really does give the sense that we’re stepping into the summer months.

Sunrise and sunset times in April The sun rises at 6.34 am on 1 April and sets at 7.34pm. But the daylight hours increase as the month progresses, so by the end of April sunrise is at 5.33 am and sunset at 8.22pm. That’s nearly two whole extra hours of daylight.

The longest day of the year in the UK is at the summer solstice which is 20 or 21 June .

Is April a good time to visit London?

April is my favourite month in London. It’s the time of year when sap is rising, buds are budding, birds are singing and London’s many parks and gardens spring into life. Cherry trees blossom in April and you can enjoy some wonderful blue sky days here.

April London weather marks a noticeable shift away from the chilliness of winter. And in springtime you avoid the heat and crowds of the high tourist season which falls in the warmest months of June, July and August.

It’s a fantastic time to explore the city. You can enjoy the spring flowers and the relative calm before peak season and make the most of longer days for outdoor exploring or day trips into the English countryside. And despite all the talk of April showers, London weather in April is often relatively dry.

Pros and Cons of London in April

April weather in London can be mild and lovely. And it’s a time of year that’s full of promise. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide whether it’s the right month for your visit.

Easter in London

The four day Easter weekend, which includes two public holidays as well as Easter Sunday, can often fall in April. British schools’ Easter holidays usually coincide with this. So in 2024 Easter weekend is Friday 29 March to Monday 1 April, and schools in the borough of Westminster, London will be on holiday from Friday 29 March to Friday 12 April.

Good Friday and Easter Monday are public holidays in the UK. This means public transport services and store opening hours are usually reduced over Easter weekend with most shops closing on Easter Sunday. You may find reduced hours and some closures at attractions and museums too. At the same time, Easter weekend and the school holidays is a busy time in London.

You may love Easter in London with its special events and atmosphere. It’s just another factor to take into consideration when you plan your trip.

Things to do in London in April

All the usual things to do in London apply. But here are some unique ideas, sights and events to enjoy in London in April.

Spring blooms in London parks and streets

With the warmer weather of London in April parks and neighbourhoods burst into flower. This is the best time to enjoy the fresh Spring blooms. But the timing of blossom in London is an inexact science. If we’ve had a cold winter then the trees will flower later. And daffodils and tulips are also very influenced by the weather.

Generally speaking in London, April is the month for cherry blossom, though they can open as early as March if the weather’s been mild. The residential streets of Kensington and Chelsea are especially pretty at cherry blossom time and you’ll also find blooms in many of London’s beautiful gardens and parks. Kyoto Garden in Kensington, St James’s Park and Kew Gardens all have spring displays.

Lilacs and wisteria may often come into flower at the end of April too. Whilst rhododendrons and azaleas continue their kaleidoscopic season. You’ll find good collections in Kew Gardens, the Isabella Plantation in Richmond Park and pretty little Cannizaro Park in Wimbledon Village .

And I love London’s lesser known green spaces too. Battersea Park, just south of the Thames at Chelsea, has a cafe and terrace beside the boating lake which is perfect on a sunny day. Whilst Russell Square in Bloomsbury is a peaceful place to enjoy some Spring air after a visit to the British Museum.

Seasonal food in April in London

Tuck into the tastes of Spring with seasonal British dishes and ingredients. You’ll find fresh asparagus on the menus – the season in Britain is short, only six weeks – as well as tender spring lamb and pink rhubarb.

At Easter time look out for traditional Simnel cake, a fruit cake with an almond paste layer and decorations. Hot cross buns are also seasonal specialities. Shops and supermarkets fill with chocolate Easter eggs of all sizes and prices, as well as the super-popular little Cadbury’s Creme Eggs which are only for sale in the weeks leading up to Easter.

Outdoors in London in April

Explore the popular attractions in London with fewer crowds than in peak season. Mild April London weather is ideal for watching the Changing the Guard, or visiting the Tower of London or the London Eye.

It’s also a great time of year to discover central London on foot . Without too much risk of rain, crowds or soaring temperatures you can walk for hours. Cross Hyde Park from Mayfair to Kensington, explore the hidden gardens of Holborn or walk beside the canal from Little Venice to Camden. Or take a walking tour to open your eyes to hidden gems around the capital.

If April temperatures in London are heading in the right direction you can also celebrate the beginning of the open-air theatre season in London . Shakespeare’s Globe is the obvious place to start, whilst the Regent’s Park Open Air theatre programme begins with a family show in April.

Fine weather in London in April signals time to visit the city’s best outdoor markets . Favourites are Borough Market and Portobello Road, but for a local’s haunt try Leather Lane in Holborn for great street food options on weekday lunchtimes. Or head to historical Greenwich where the market is open 7 days a week.

Take a boat cruise along the river Thames to the Tate Modern, or to the Cutty Sark and museums at Greenwich. Or enjoy an afternoon tea cruise on the river.

Watch the Changing of the Guard

If you’ve never seen this traditional piece of pageantry, April is a great time to experience it. The British Army’s ceremonial troops change into their summer uniforms when the clocks go forward at the end of March. Winter’s cloaks and greatcoats are replaced by their iconic scarlet tunics. And if you avoid the peak Easter periods April is a quieter time of year to watch the ceremony. See the spectacle in London at Buckingham Palace and Horseguards Parade, or in the town of Windsor.

What to do on rainy days in London in April

Don’t worry, the capital has plenty to offer on a wet day.

London’s free museums have engaging permanent displays whether you love the arts, culture, science or history. And every Spring brings fresh and fascinating new exhibitions.

Head to the shops . And avoid the puddles by browsing the cool stores and quirky stalls in Covent Garden’s covered market or the upscale boutiques in Piccadilly’s pretty arcades.

An Easter afternoon tea is a treat during the holiday period. Escape a cloudy day and soak up the vibes in one of London’s heritage hotels. The Cafe Royal serves afternoon tea in the golden opulence of the Grill Room.

Day trips from London in April

April’s lengthening hours of daylight are perfect for day trips from London into the English countryside. You could visit Stonehenge or explore the villages of the Cotswolds. Or check out one of the pretty and historic nearby cities to London like the university towns of Oxford or Cambridge for a blend of academia and medieval beauty.

This full day tour gets you to Stonehenge in time for an exclusive and goosebump-inducing early morning viewing of the stones from the inner circle, before the day’s visitors arrive. Continue your journey through the beautiful English counties of Wiltshire and Somerset, with visits to the gorgeous village of Lacock as well as Bath. This good value tour gets excellent reviews.

For reviews, availability and to book: From London: Stonehenge, Bath and Lacock full-day Sunrise Tour .

Closer to home this is also a good month to take a day trip to Windsor Castle or Hampton Court Palace.

London April Events

Easter events in london.

Easter marks a special time in London with religious services, concerts, and family-friendly events like Easter egg hunts at many popular locations.

Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s Cathedral are closed for sightseeing on Good Friday and Easter Sunday but you can attend their Easter services. And the same applies to the many beautiful and historic churches across the city.

The Passion of Jesus A re-enactment performed by a cast of more than 100 volunteers, has becoming an annual event in Trafalgar Square on Good Friday. Parental guidance is advised.

Sporting events in London

Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race on the river Thames The date of the race varies between late March and early April. Putney Bridge is a great spot to see the start, or go to Chiswick Bridge for the finish. You could even find a cosy pub with riverside views! 30 March 2024.

The London Marathon The famous 26.2 mile London Marathon loops around the city from Greenwich to Buckingham Palace. Popular viewpoints are at Cutty Sark, Tower Bridge, and along the Embankment. 21 April 2024.

London Landmarks Half Marathon Organised by Tommy’s , the route through the City and Westminster includes history-inspired activities for spectators too. And look out for the brave runners wearing impressive (and surely uncomfortable?) landmark-inspired costumes. 7 April 2024

London festivals in April

Shakespeare’s Birthday The month of April is the time to Shakespeare’s birthday. The Globe Theatre often pays homage to the Bard with a special event.

Coffee Festival Join fellow coffee enthusiasts at the London Coffee Festival, showcasing the London’s coffee scene with tastings and workshops. 11 – 14 April at The Truman Brewery.

St George’s Day Although he’s the patron saint of England, St George’s Day isn’t much celebrated in the UK. But London holds a small festival in Trafalgar Square with traditional English food, music and even some morris dancing! 21 April 2024

Vaisakhi Festival The vibrant festival of Vaisakhi celebrates Sikh and Punjabi heritage and culture. Trafalgar Square, 6 April 2024.

What to wear in London in April

April London weather is changeable. So you’ll need to pack versatile pieces that you can layer. Once you’re close to your departure date check the weather forecast at BBC Weather to get an idea of the temperatures that are likely during your stay.

I’ve worn everything from padded winter coats to summer dresses when I’ve been out and about in London in April. I know this isn’t helpful when you’re trying to refine your packing list – but it is the reality of our climate some years.

What to pack for London in April

Tee-shirts or lightweight thermal base layers .

Long-sleeved shirts and jumpers to layer or wear alone.

Raincoat: A lightweight raincoat will look smart and help to keep you dry.

Jacket : A quilted jacket or wool peacoat is a stylish option that will give you an extra layer of warmth during the day or in the cooler evenings.

Water-resistant shoes: Given London’s penchant for showers, you need shoes that can cope. Ideally bring comfortable flat soles that will carry you over pavements and cobbles with ease.

Accessories: Check the forecast to see if you need a warm scarf and hat.

If you get caught out by April London weather these are the shops where you can buy affordable layers or lightweight summer pieces. You’ll find them on most London high streets. Uniqlo , Marks & Spencer , John Lewis

An umbrella There’s a chance of rain at any time of year so an umbrella is a good idea. Pick a strong but small and lightweight folding umbrella that you can carry in your handbag or coat pocket. Bring along a little ziplock bag so if your brolly does get wet you can shake it out and temporarily seal it up. It’s easier to manage a wet umbrella than a soggy coat!

Sunglasses : hopefully you’ll need these too if the April London weather is obliging!

Please note that all visitor information here is for guidance only. Please check the relevant websites for the most up to date information eg. accommodation details, tickets, entrance requirements, opening times etc.

What to read next

Guide to central London: neighbourhoods and things to do

Free Museums in London

2 Day Itinerary for London

Historical Places in London

Windsor Long Walk

Weather in May in London

Weather in June in London England

About the author  Nancy Roberts is a former women’s magazine editor and writer. She lives in London and is mum to two 20-something boys. In Map&Family she shares info and inspiration for curious travellers: singles and couples as well as families travelling with teens and young adults.

All photos are all rights reserved.  Please do not reproduce these photos without prior written permission

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The best and worst time to visit London: Choosing the optimal time for your visit

Are you planning a trip to London but wondering when you should visit? In this guide we go through, the best and worst time to visit London in detail, to help you decide when to visit. We will also go through a month by month account, as well as looking at factors like weather, crowds, and costs.

Worst time to visit London for Crowds

Worst time to visit london for prices, worst time to visit london for weather, worst time to visit london during school holidays, is january the best or worst time to visit london, is february the best or worst time to visit london, is march the best or worst time to visit london, is april the best or worst time to visit london, is may the best or worst time to visit london, is june the best or worst time to visit london, is july the best or worst time to visit london, is august the best or worst time to visit london, is september the best or worst time to visit london, is october the best or worst time to visit london, is november the best or worst time to visit london, is december the best or worst time to visit london, conclusion: the best and worst time to visit london.

If you want to avoid the crowds of tourists the worst time to visit London is June, July and August. August especially is a busy month as this coincides with school holidays.

The worst time to visit London when it comes to things like accommodation costs are usually the peak tourist months of June, July, and August. Due to the increase in people accommodation sells quite quickly, so you should expect to pay more at this time of year.

As a whole London is a pretty expensive city so any savings you can make by visiting in the quieter months like April, May, September or October, are a plus.

London is known for its unpredictable and often rainy weather. That being said there are better times of the year to visit when it comes to weather.

In our opinion the worst time to visit London when it comes to weather is January and February. The days are incredibly short, as it gets dark around 4pm. It tends to rain a lot and temperatures average between 4 and 9 degrees Celsius. It can sometimes snow in London during these months although it is rare.

Due to the adverse weather in winter especially some tourist attractions may close. So this is something to keep in mind.

If you aren’t a fan of the heat July and August can be the worst time to visit London. It’s not unheard of for temperatures to hit over 30 degrees Celsius. London isn’t always equipped for this heat, and not everything is air conditioned. Some tube lines for example get incredibly warm and it can become unbearable.

School holidays can be a difficult time to visit London as it does get incredibly busy, with kids and parents trying to make the most of their time together. August is when the summer holidays usually take place and this is by far the busiest time to visit.

There are often half term breaks in February, May, and October, although exact dates vary year by year.

January is probably the quietest time to visit London as a tourist. It’s one of the colder and rainier months with temperatures averaging between 4 and 9 degrees Celsius.

January is also one of the darker months in London. The sun tends to rise just before 8am, and sets at around 4.30pm depending on which part of the month you are in. Earlier sunsets also mean that some attractions may close early in comparison to the summer months.

On the plus side, tourist numbers are down, which also means prices for accommodation are better now than any other time of the year.

Overall January is the best time to visit London if you want a quiet visit, where you are planning to spend a lot of time indoors at museums for example.

However January is the worst time to visit London if you want to explore the outdoors, visit the parks, and just generally stay warm and dry.

February is another quiet month in London when it comes to tourism. The weather can still be incredibly dreary with a good chance of rain. Temperatures are similar to January with a low of 4 and a high of 9 degrees Celsius.

The days are starting to get a little brighter but only just, in comparison to January. Sunrise is around 7.30am and sunset is closer to 5pm in the evening.

Accommodation is cheaper, but you also have the added issues of attractions closing due to adverse weather.

February coincides with Valentine’s Day so if you are around on the 14th make sure you checkout some of the romantic events in the city and book restaurants in advance.

Overall February is the best time to visit London if you are looking for a romantic break, and want to enjoy the pubs and restaurants of the city.

However February is the worst time to visit London if you are hoping to get outdoors and enjoy the parks in the city.

March is when the first signs of Spring start to appear in London. The weather can still be a little cold, with temperatures averaging between 6 and 12 degrees Celsius.

Days are much brighter and the clocks go forward in the UK towards the end of March.

Easter can sometimes fall in March depending on the year, so keep this in mind if you are planning on visiting at this time.

March is the best time to visit London if you want better weather, but still want to visit in the off season.

March is the worst time to visit London again if you are planning on spending long days travelling around the city or sitting in parks.

April is really when London starts to break free from the shackles of winter. The days are starting to get longer with sunrise at around 6.30am and sunset at about 7.30pm.

The weather really warms up too with temperatures averaging between 7 and 15 degrees Celsius.

Tourist numbers are rising but still are not at the peak, so accommodation costs are still lowish, and the crowds aren’t as heavy as in other months. There is a good chance Easter may fall in April, which of course does mean more tourists over this period though.

One of the nice things about April is that the city comes into bloom with flowers brightening up the streets and parks.

April is the best time to visit London if you want the visit London before tourist season kicks in properly.

However April is the worst time to visit London if you want clear blue skies and warm days. The weather is pretty unpredictable and April showers are a real thing!

May is one of the more pleasant times of year to visit London particularly when it comes to the weather. Days are brighter for longer, and temperatures average somewhere between 10 and 18 degrees Celsius.

It’s perfect weather for walking around places like Hyde Park, or visiting some of the markets in the city. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show happens in May which is a must for nature lovers, and as a whole the city feels brighter and prettier.

With the warmer weather comes an increase in tourists so make sure you book accommodation well in advance to get the best prices. There are also 2 Bank Holidays (Public Holidays) in London in May so it may get busy around these times.

May is the best time to visit London if you are looking to spend time outdoors, and want to see the city come alive.

However it is the worst time to visit London if you are looking for a cheap stay, and minimal tourists.

June is when London really starts to warm up. Temperatures range from 13 to 21 degrees Celsius although it can often be much warmer.

June is peak tourist season in London, so this is something you need to keep in mind when visiting. Hotel prices go up, crowds increase, which in turn means longer queues.

Pride events usually take place in London in June, and you will see a shift in atmosphere over the city. The days are longer and people are much more relaxed. Alfresco dining and picnics in the park are popular at this time of year too.

Overall this is the best time to visit London if you are hoping for decent weather, right before tourist season hits its peak.

However June is the worst time to visit London if you want cheap accommodation.

July is one of the warmest months in London which is great if you are trying to avoid the rain and misery of winter. Temperatures start to heat up and average at around 25 degrees Celsius, although there are days when it can exceed this.

The heat in the city can sometimes be problematic particularly if you are on the Tube, and it can often feel warm and sweaty.

There are several festivals in the city in July such as Pride, and the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival. Sport lovers will also be pleased to know Wimbledon is held in July, and the whole city goes tennis crazy.

July is a very busy month in London so expect an increase in accommodation costs, and more crowds.

Overall July is a good time to visit London if you want to take advantage of the warm weather. There is still a good chance of rain (it is London after all) but at least it isn’t freezing.

July is the worst time to visit London if you want cheaper accommodation and less crowds. You need to book tours and restaurants in advance to avoid missing out.

August again is one of the warmest months in London, so it’s great if you want to make the most of long hot days. Temperatures range from 13-25 degrees Celsius, but it is not unusual for a few days of 30 degrees plus.

August is also when the school holidays fall in the UK and most of Europe. This means that tourist numbers are incredibly high. It’s also probably one of the most expensive months when it comes to looking for accommodation in London.

There are tons of quirky festivals that fall in August. One of the biggest though is of course the Notting Hill Carnival . But you also have things like the BBC Proms, and Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre with a number of shows. London is famous for its festivals and August is one of the best months to experience them.

August is the best time to visit London if you are travelling with kids, or you want to experience the city at its liveliest. It’s also great for those wanting to attend one of the festivals in the city.

However it is the worst time to visit London if you aren’t travelling with kids, as the crowds are huge. Expect to wait in line for tourist attractions and restaurants.

September is when London gradually starts to calm down after the peak summer months. Kids start to return to school, and the hot summer days slowly turn cooler.

There is still a lot happening in London in September as people try to make the most of the last few weeks of summer. The first half of September is still incredibly busy, but tourist numbers slowly dwindle towards the end of the month.

The temperatures in London in September hits an average peak of 20 degrees Celsius. That being said you do get some random hot days in September almost like a final goodbye to summer.

September is the best time to visit London if you still want to experience the city at its peak but with less tourists. It’s also a good time of year to visit the parks and gardens, and have some final moments of alfresco dining.

It is however the worst time to visit London if you want super hot days, and great deals on accommodation.

October is when you really start to notice the cooler weather in London. The leaves start turning orange, and it’s a nice time of year for autumnal walks. If you dress appropriately it can be a lovely time of year to visit.

October sees average temperatures of 10 to 16 degrees Celsius. There are plenty of Halloween style activities across the city, as people start getting cosy for the winter months.

Rain is more likely in October than the summer months, so again this is something to keep in mind when packing for your trip. On the plus side tourist numbers start to drop in comparison to the summer months.

Overall October is a good time to visit London if you are ok with unpredictable weather, and slightly darker evenings. Accommodation is also cheaper.

However it is the worst time to visit London if you are expecting sunshine all the time.

November sees the nights in London start to get darker. The clocks usually change at the end of October which means earlier sunsets for November. This does mean shorter days when it comes to exploring.

Temperatures start to drop and average between 7 and 12 degrees Celsius. It can also be an incredibly rainy month.

Tourist numbers drop at this time of year too, which means less queues and better deals on hotel rooms.

The highlight in November is Bonfire Night where you will be treated to a city fireworks display in celebration. Towards the end of the month Christmas displays start to come out, and the Christmas markets open.

November is the best time to visit London if you want to celebrate bonfire night, or get in on the Christmas action early.

However it is the worst time to visit London if you are wanting long bright days and sunshine.

December is pretty dreary in London when it comes to weather. That being said though the city transforms into a bit of a magical Christmas wonderland. There are pop up ice rinks, and several different Christmas Markets dotted around the city.

Temperatures range between 5 and 9 degrees Celsius, so you do need to wrap up warm. It’s also important to acknowledge that some attractions may be closed over in December due to adverse weather.

December is the best time to visit London if you want to do Christmas shopping or just enjoy the festivities in the city.

However it is the worst time of year to visit London if you are expecting long days and sunshine.

Hopefully you have found this article useful when planning your trip to London. Just to give you a final recap in our opinion and experience these are the best and worst times to visit London.

Overall the best time to visit London is May or the middle of September onwards. You still get some pretty decent weather, but there are less tourists then in the summer months. This also means there is a chance of securing a good deal when it comes to accommodation.

The worst time to visit London is in July and August. These are the busiest months in the city, which means that accommodation costs are high, and you will find yourself lining up for things like attractions and restaurants.

The months of January and February in our opinion is also the worst time to visit London. The weather is grim, the days are short, and you should expect a lot of rain.

But on the plus side, you will always find something to do in London no matter what time of year it is. In fact we have some helpful itineraries that you can click below:

One week in London

5 days in London

Instagrammable spots in London

Happy Travels!

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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17 uplifting things to do in London in April 2024

With spring in the air, discover the best things to do in the capital to put a spring in your step this month.

The clocks have officially sprung forward and lighter evenings are bringing a dose of dopamine to London this month. 

With the family off for Easter, the TCS London Marathon returning, and cherry blossom trees blooming across the city's beautiful Royal Parks this April, there is plenty to look forward to as we celebrate the start of British Summer Time. 

Here, discover the best things to do in London in April 2024, tried and tested by team HELLO! .  

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From Michelin-star delights to affordable jaunts, discover where HELLO! has been dining - and loving - this April.

Experience unrivalled glamour and good vibes at Louie

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Inspired by the soulful jazz bars of New Orleans, this late-night dining spot infuses Parisian sophistication with the heady glamour of the Louisiana jazz scene. For foodies, like me, Louie's colourful menu is a delight for the senses. Expect elegant sharing plates, exceptional raw seafood, black truffle pappardelle, a melt-in-the-mouth New York strip steak doused in bernaise sauce and buttery lobster rolls from the best of the menu. 

When I dined on a quiet Thursday evening, the buzzy dining room was full by 8pm, soon transformed into a jovial live music venue as a four-man jazz band lit up the restaurant with a playful rendition of Oh When The Saints.  

Upstairs in The Alligator Bar , the atmosphere was even more electric as guests sipped on classic cocktails and malt whiskey to the sound of Georgia Cecile's spectacular voice. For me, it was a quick twirl on the dancefloor and a spicy margarita for the road. Joie de vivre!

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Lose your inhibitions at Bunga Bunga's Buff Brunch

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Try UMU’s new menu

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Head to Fish & Bubbles in Notting Hill

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Tuck into tapas and authentic Spanish cuisine at Pizarro

It's no wonder Pizarro in foodie hotspot Bermondsey is always packed to the rafters. The brainchild of talented chef José Pizarro, who is often hailed the godfather of Spanish cuisine in the UK, José's eponymous restaurant has a brilliantly buzzy atmosphere and serves deliciously authentic Spanish food. All of the staff appeared to be Spanish or Spanish-speaking, which I took as a great sign as I was shown to my table.

The menu is designed for sharing, and there's no doubt about it, you have to start with some of the pica pica, which are essentially nibbles to whet your appetite. Our waiter recommended two signature plates which were the perfect way to start our meal: creamy jamon croquetas and salty padron peppers. Next up was the bean stew with Iberico pork and cockles. It may not sound that exciting, but it's a Spanish dish that's a classic for a reason. 

For mains, there's the option to share some of the larger plates or to order individually. We opted for the suckling lamb leg for two, which came complete with baked potato gratin and confit onions. It could have easily fed three people though; it was an extremely generous portion of succulent and flavorsome lamb. If you have room for dessert, I highly recommend the salted caramel and chocolate tart, which is pure heaven for the chocoholics amongst us.

With its open kitchen, authentic cuisine, friendly staff, and lively surroundings, Pizarro offers a ten out of ten Spanish dining experience. It's no surprise there are other branches dotted around the city and abroad. And if you want a more casual experience, you can always head further down Bermondsey Street to the José tapas bar, which was the chef's original outpost in London that is more of a wine bar that serves tapas. It doesn't take bookings, so just turn up.

Reviewed by Ainhoa Barcelona, Content Managing Editor  

Taste the beauty of cherry blossom season at Marugame Udon

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Experience Hanami the Marugame way by dropping by to enjoy your udon whilst admiring the restaurant's co-created pink cherry blossom tree. Pick up your origami petal at the till, write your wish for the new season, fold your petal and add it to the tree and watch it blossom.

Marugame Udon is the perfect pit stop for a flying visit, thanks to their canteen-style dining that makes ordering go at lightning speed. When I dined, I devoured a hearty bowl of Chicken Katsu Curry (from £8.45) while my friend enjoyed Beef Nikutama (from £9.95), udon noodles with beef and caramelised onions in a sweet and smokey sauce. Don't miss the delicious Shima Yuzu & Elderflower Saké Spritz.

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Sip cocktails at Soho speakeasy Sotto

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I sampled four offerings from the nine-drink limited edition menu and was impressed by the slick presentation and smooth flavours. My favourite was the Sgroppino, which is essentially a boozy slushie. Lemon verbena liqueur, lemon sorbet, mint, and prosecco combine to create a melt-in-your-mouth delight, with each sip culminating in the sorbet pleasantly fizzing away to nothing on your tongue. The Hazelnut Milk Punch was an unusual and moreish creation, the Blackcurrant Negroni packed a serious punch (and I hold it personally responsible for my hangover), while the most popular showstopper in the room was the Sunset Cosmo, a raspberry and guava infused creation that ended up on more than one Instagram Story.

Grab your table at  bocconcinorestaurant.co.uk/news/sotto-bar/

Reviewed by Kate Thomas, Lifestyle Managing Editor

Kick off al fresco season at the Somerset House Terrace Bar

Fancy a taste of Spain while in London? The Somerset House Terrace Bar  with San Miguel has returned to its resident home on stunning River Terrace this month for a season of unmissable experiences. 

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Best things to do in London in April 2024

Be it a live music event, family-friendly exhibitions or exciting new fitness classes, HELLO!'s team is always on the lookout for the best new things to try in London each month. 

Spectate at the TCS London Marathon

This month, thousands of runners will be gearing up for the most popular marathon in the world - but the TCS London Marathon is nothing without its spectators. Join the crowds to support the elites, first-time runners and fancy dressed athletes taking on the 26.2 mile route across London's most iconic landmarks on 21 April. Who knows? You may just become inspired to sign up yourself next year… 

Don't miss the London Landmarks Half Marathon on 7 April, the only half marathon to go through both the City of London and City of Westminster.

Are you running the London Marathon?

Running the TCS London Marathon? Don't miss out on the post-run perks the city has to offer on 21 April 2024.

• Race-day travel is free for any runners travelling to and from the marathon. Simply show your race number or medal on the Underground, Overground, bus network, TfL Rail, and DLR to hitch a free ride. 
• Barry's - London's favourite bootcamp - will be hosting a London Marathon after party at its SW1 studio featuring live music and refreshments. Marathon runners can drop in for a free HERMOSA protein shake from the Barry's Fuel Bar by showing their medal. It's free to join by signing up here . 
• Deliveroo has partnered with Boots to bring marathon runners the ultimate post-run care via the ' Marathon Roo-covery hub '. Order everything from protein bars and snacks for refuelling after the finish line to Epsom salts for the ultimate muscle relaxation and mini-massagers to alleviate muscle and joint soreness to your door. The first 1981 (a nod to the marathon's debut) people to use code ROOCOVERY10 on Deliveroo app or website via Boots will get £10 off orders over £20. 
• Fresh pasta restaurant, Pastaio will be giving runners just what they’ll need on race day, offering a free plate of pasta for all medal holders on London Marathon Dayl. Simply show your medal at the restaurant on 19 Ganton St, Carnaby.
• For years, Bill's has welcomed London marathon runners through its doors on race day with the promise of a free burger and drink - just show your medal at any of the 10 restaurants in London to claim your post-run carbs. 
• Urban's at-home wellness services deliver expert therapists straight to your door, making the service an ideal treat for post-marathon recovery. Book everything from physiotherapy to sports massages on the app, reducing the risk of injury and speeding up your recovery. 
• Treat yourself to a free Argentinian Rib Eye Steak at Heliot Steak House or a Claire Heliot Burger whilst taking in the wonderful views across Soho from The Hippodrome Rooftop on 21 and 22 April. Just show your race medal to claim. 
• What better way to recuperate and recharge your body after intense weeks of training and a strict diet, than with a luxurious stay and an abundance of delicious food at five-star boutique hotel, London Marriott Park Lane , with its indulging Bed, Breakfast & Bubbles package, and it's   not even far from the finishing line.

The Art of the Brick: An Exhibition of LEGO® Art

With half of April dedicated to the Easter holidays, those with school-aged children will be glad that the options for fun activities are endless in this city. But one trip that should be top of any list is a visit to The Art of the Brick: An Exhibition of LEGO® Art. 

It’s perfect for LEGO enthusiasts and also children who like to discover new things. Here they will discover universally known art in LEGO form - think Michaelangelo’s David or Van Gogh’s Starry Night…

My two boys, neither of whom actively play with LEGO every day, were incredibly excited from start to finish, rushing from one creation to another - showing that you don’t have to be so into LEGO to enjoy this great experience.

A bonus for sure was the two play areas where children could either build their own creations or enjoy some time drawing and then bringing them to life. Overall, a great family day out for adults and children alike. For tickets visit: theartofthebrickexpo.com/

Indulge in a luxury post-marathon recovery package at Pan Pacific London

Calling all marathon runners! You're going to need some serious TLC after putting your body through 26.2 miles, and Pan Pacific London has a post-race recovery package you'll definitley want to indulge in. 

SENSORY, the hotel’s state-of-the-art wellbeing floor is designed to tackle muscle strain and mental exhaustion as well as optimise healing. Begin with a 30-minute leg recovery session to soothe tired muscles after a gruelling 26.2 miles of running, followed by a 30-minute express massage. The relaxation continues with full access to the sauna and steam room before soaking away any remaining fatigue with a dip in the 18.5m infinity pool. 

The Post-Marathon Treatment package is avaialble to book throughout April in tandem with the London Marathon. Prices start at £150.

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London Marathon 2024 travel guide: Start times, route and celebration spots

Spectators can watch runners race through the capital on 21 april, article bookmarked.

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The London Marathon 2024 will weave through the streets of the capital from Greenwich to Westminster on Sunday 21 April, and thousands of spectators are going to be lining the route for a glimpse of their running friends.

Over 50,000 people are expected to take on the mammoth two-foot tour of London landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, Cutty Sark and Tower Bridge.

Since the inaugural 26.2 mile event in 1981, the fundraising race has raised millions for charities each year, and, with sunshine on the forecast for now, celebrations of the charitable and physical feat will take place across the city.

Here’s everything you need to know to plan the day if you’re running  or  supporting this year’s London Marathon.

London Marathon 2024 start time and date

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The London Marathon 2024 will take place on Sunday 21 April.

Exact timings for this year’s races are yet to be confirmed but staggered start times from around 8.30am are the norm, with the masses setting off in waves at 10am and all start lines closed from 11.30am.

The finish line on The Mall closes at 7.30pm and is then moved to St James’ Park until midnight.

London Marathon route

Largely unchanged since 1981, the start line for the race is in Blackheath at the top of Greenwich Park .

From here, a leg to Woolwich, jog past the Cutty Sark and stretch around Bermondsey takes runners to cross the river over Tower Bridge .

After a ring around the Isle of Dogs, it’s a relatively straight stretch along the Thames through the City of London to the Westminster finish line on The Mall.

Will there be train and tube strikes?

There is a planned overtime ban for Aslef members working for LNER on Friday 19 and Sunday 21 April (marathon day), as well as strikes on Saturday 20 April, so those travelling into London from the northeast will likely face cancellations.

Substantial road closures across the capital to make way for the race mean spectators should travel on foot or by tube – roads will reopen as and when all runners have cleared the area.

Marathon participants will receive free travel home up to 6.30pm on marathon day on the London Underground and Overground, buses and DLR.

TfL said that a modified DLR service will start at 5.30am from Tower Gateway to Lewisham so runners arrive on time to the start line.

Rail services out of London to the midlands and the northwest are also expected to be extremely busy from 6pm due to an FA Cup semi-final taking place at Wembley Stadium.

The best spots to watch the London Marathon in person

If the live BBC coverage won’t cut it and you’re coming to support from the sidelines, spectators can watch along most parts of the route, including The Highway in Wapping, where runners will pass twice.

To be in the heart of the action, the halfway point of Tower Bridge at mile 13, and the finish line at The Mall are bound to be exciting but busy. For a quieter spot to cheer, stay east and line up in Deptford or the Isle of Dogs.

Track friends and family taking part using their marathon number on the TCS London Marathon app to best position yourself to catch them on the go.

Marathon organisers advise that some areas, including those by the Cutty Sark and St James’ Park, are likely to be very busy on the day.

Five accessible viewing areas also dot the course for those with disabilities: in Cutty Sark, Canary Wharf, Rainbow Row, Tower Hill and Victoria Embankment.

Where to celebrate along the route

London has plenty of pubs and bars to quench the post-marathon thirst, whether you’ve been running or cheering.

In Greenwich, The Gipsy Moth has Cutty Sark views, The Angel in Bermondsey sits on the Thames and halfway pub, the Tower Bridge Arms, raises pints of IPA to passers-by.

Wet your palette in Wapping’s local Turner’s Old Star, ride the high at Pergola on the Wharf for city views, or refuel at Hung, Drawn & Quartered in Tower Hill with pies and ales.

At Victoria Embankment, board pub boat Tattershall Castle to cheer runners on for the final mile and savour a cold one at The Westminster Arms just before the finish line.

Once the race has been run, Inn the Park restaurant in St James’ Park is ideal for a light bite or head into Mercato Mayfair for a street food party in a restored church.

How to sign up for the London Marathon 2025

After a  record number of entries  signed up for the 26.2-mile race in 2024 – 578,374 applicants according to event organisers – next year’s London Marathon is bound to be another popular event.

To take on the challenge, entry is available through a ballot, international tour operators, charity spaces and athletics clubs.

The public ballot for the 2025 TCS London Marathon will open on Saturday 20 April and close the following Friday (26 April). Winners will be drawn at random and emailed in July ahead of the 27 April 2025 marathon.

Read more: Amazing sports events and experiences to combine with a once-in-a-lifetime holiday

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Prince William to resume royal duties after Princess Kate's cancer diagnosis

LONDON — Britain's Prince William is set to return to official royal duties Thursday for the first time since his wife, Kate, the Princess of Wales, announced she was receiving treatment for cancer .

William, the Prince of Wales and heir to the throne, will visit west London and the adjacent county of Surrey to highlight the work of community and environmental impact organizations in the area, Kensington Palace said in a statement Tuesday.

They will be William's first public engagements since Kate revealed almost a month ago that she was undergoing chemotherapy for an as-yet unspecified form of cancer.

In the weeks before the news became public, William, 41, canceled a number of engagements , including a memorial service for his godfather, King Constantine of Greece, as he juggled being with his wife and looking after their children.

After Kate's video announcement, the couple missed the Easter Sunday service in Windsor, a high-profile annual royal engagement.

On Thursday, William will visit Surplus to Supper, a food bank that distributes more than 3 metric tons of food per day, much of which would otherwise go to landfills. He will also stop by a youth center in West London to which the food bank sends regular donations.

"Protecting the environment for future generations is one of The Prince of Wales’s key priorities and in 2020 he launched The Earthshot Prize, a global environmental prize and platform to discover, award, celebrate and scale ground-breaking solutions to repair and regenerate the planet," Kensington Palace said.

William is following in the footsteps of his father, King Charles III, who has long championed environmental and social causes.

William was at a soccer match in Birmingham last week , watching his beloved Aston Villa with his son George, in what was the pair's first public appearance since the news of Kate's diagnosis.

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

25+ Fun Things To Do In London This Weekend

I t’s finally the weekend! How will you be spending it? Whether you’re in the mood for secret bars or exclusive pizzas, immersive exhibitions or pop-up experiences, there’s plenty going on in London to accommodate your desires. From new exhibitions to new activities ( pasta making anyone?), here’s what to do in London this weekend.

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What To Do In London This Weekend: 20–21 April 2024

Runners stream through the medal gates on The Mall during The TCS London Marathon on Sunday 23rd April 2023. © Adam Warner for London Marathon Events/TCS London Marathon

1. Watch The London Marathon

The time has come: hoards of runners from across the globe will descend on London this weekend for one of the nation’s largest and most prestigious sporting events. The London Marathon dates back to 1981, taking runners from Greenwich Park all the way to Buckingham Palace. It’s a little too late to take part, but you can still watch the runners pound the pavements at these vantage points . If you’re taking part, hold on tight to your medal and present it at the following spots, where runners will be rewarded with a free draught beer or a soft drink:

• Pergola on the Wharf, Canary Wharf (Crossrail Pl, London E14 5AR)
• The Libertine, Bank (1 Royal Exchange, London EC3V 3LL)
• The Prince, Earl’s Court (14 Lillie Rd, London SW6 1TT)
• The 411, Angel (411 St John St, London EC1V 4AB)
• The Palm House, Victoria (150 Victoria St, London SW1E 5LB)

Details: Click here to read our full guide to the London Marathon 2024 .

2. Enjoy Earthfest

Monday 22 April is Earth Day , and King’s Cross is hosting an array of events this weekend to celebrate. Expect an exceptional line-up of speakers, an immersive exhibition and a programme of interactive workshops, bringing the most pressing climate conversations to the fore.

Details: 18–21 April 2024 around Kings Cross. Tickets are free for the public and can be booked at earthfest.world

3. Chomp On A Free Breakfast Sandwich

Beloved breakfast concept brand Bangers is opening its first bricks and mortar site this weekend in Shoreditch – and they’re cooking up hundreds of free breakfast sandwiches to celebrate. Sarnies will be flying out the door, Bloody Marys will be flowing and tunes will be spinning for the perfect treat breakfast.

Details: Bangers (5 Leonard Circus, London EC2A 4DQ) is open everyday from 7.30am–2.30pm from Friday 19 April 2024. bangerslondon.co.uk

4. Book Ahead: Sweat Flow Mat Pilates Class With Jessie Blum

Globally renowned Pilates teacher and Heartcore founder Jessie Blum is hosting a special series of Sweat Flow Mat Pilates classes at her Bayswater studio – and it’s time to book your spot. Expect an empowering 90 minute dynamic flow designed to connect and restore your mind, body and soul, and using the health-giving-benefits of infrared heat. You’ll break a sweat, light up your core and build power from the inside out.

Details: The special classes are scheduled for the following Sundays from 4–5.30pm: 28 April, 12 May and 2 June. Classes take place at Heartcore Bayswater and are priced at £45 each. Book your spot at weareheartcore.com

5. Celebrate National Amaretto Day

Amaretto fans, this holiday is for you. Henson’s Bar is bringing four carefully crafted cocktails to London this weekend, collaborating with ADRIATICO Amaretto for four perfect serves, from a classic amaretto sour to a rich coffee cocktail for the ideal nightcap.

Details: The four cocktails are available from Friday 19 April–Sunday 28 April at Henson’s Bar and Social (57 Frith Street, London W1D 3JG). hensonsbar.com

6. Try Tattu’s Imperial Roast

Fancy a roast with a Chinese twist? Tattu is bringing a new dollop of weekend indulgence to Soho with its new Imperial Roast, served exclusively on Sundays. It’s the perfect roast set up, with three meats included (and a fourth available to be added), so no one has to make the dreaded decision as to which to go for. Instead, tuck into tender miso glazed chicken, pile aromatic roast duck high into a pancake, and chow down on the softest char siu pork possible. All of this is served up with a selection of soft steamed bao buns and pancakes, plus pack choi and decadent salt and pepper roasties. For an extra indulgence, tag on the caramel soy beef fillet served on a bed of asparagus – just divine. And, naturally, don’t miss dessert – the white chocolate dragon egg is a must-try (and must-smash).

Details: The Imperial Sunday Roast is available for £41.50 per person, for a minimum of two people, every Sunday at Tattu London (The Now Building Rooftop, Outernet, Denmark St, London WC2H 0LA). Vegetarian options are available, including satay cauliflower and mock caramel soy beef fillet. tattu.co.uk

7. Brunch In The Sky

London’s highest brunch experience has arrived, taking over Shangri-La The Shard’s elegant Sky Lounge every Sunday from midday. Guests are welcomed with a crisp glass of Veuve Cliquot Champagne to sip while perusing the concise seasonal menu and gazing at the breathtaking skyline views. Choose from a selection of Asian-inspired à la carte starters and mains, including caraway toast loaded with a tender and fresh medley of organic carrots, confit salmon with rainbow radicchio, super soft Vietnamese-style sea bass with glass noodles and sumptuous wok-fried beef fillet with lemongrass, chilli and jasmine rice. The star of the show, however, is the incredible market-style buffet boasting chocolate and pastry creations beside cheese from renowned cheesemonger Aubrey Allen. A cheese expert showcases and serves an array of ethically sourced British and European farmhouse cheeses, from creamy blues to tangy cheddars, paired with crackers, grapes and chutneys, while sweet toothed guests can tuck into the marvellous creations crafted by the Shangri-La’s in-house pastry chefs, spanning cakes, cookies, doughnuts, pastries and pies, with a chocolate fountain bubbling away at the centre of it all. The perfect Sunday treat.

Details:  Sky Brunch is available every Sunday from 12–4pm in the Sky Lounge at Shangri-La The Shard (31 St Thomas St, London SE1 9QU). The brunch is priced at £79 per person including a welcome glass of Champagne, or £139 per person with bottomless Champagne. Book your table at skylounge-shangrila.com

8. Photography Pop-Up

Acclaimed London-born photographer Denis O’Regan has launched his exclusive month-long pop-up at Mayfair’s Bang & Olufsen, showcasing a range of limited edition prints giving visitors an exclusive look at his distinct perspective on some of the biggest moments of the 20th century, from Live Aid to the Concert For Diana. The prints are also available to purchase in store.

Details:  Open until 26 April 2024 at Bang & Olufsen Mayfair (72 New Bond St, London W1S 1RR).

Sushi Platter

9. Dine At London’s Buzziest New Restaurant

Round of applause for CLAP, Knightsbridge’s buzziest new restaurant, featuring the sleekest of interiors (transformed from a refurbished tube station, no less), delicious Japanese food and stunning cityscape views to boot. Sip a playful cocktail and watch the sun sink beneath Harrods’ iconic dome on the horizon – or pull a stool up to the sushi counter to watch the magic happen. Peruse the lengthy menu featuring mouthwatering dishes such as Hokkaido Scallops, Roasted Tamara King Crab Leg, Sea Bass Amapeño, Pistachio Crusted Baby Chicken with yuzu and daikon, and plenty more. Or go omakase and leave it up to the expert chefs in the kitchen to put their wisdom to work. Before or after finishing a decadent meal, make sure you go upstairs to see the seventh floor complete with a statement bar, lounge, DJ deck and a rooftop terrace area with 180-degree views of London.

Details: CLAP (Sixth and seventh Floor, 12-14 Basil St, London SW3 1AJ) is open for lunch (12–3pm) and dinner (6–11pm) every weekend. claprestaurant.com

New Restaurants Opening In April In London

10. World Class Cocktail Festival

Thirty of London’s top bars are mixing up a range of limited edition cocktails in celebration of the inaugural World Class Cocktail Festival. Each bartender’s bar will shake up and serve at least three new cocktails using Tanqueray No. TEN, The Singleton 12-Year-Old Single Malt Whisky and Seedlip. The hub of the action is The Bar At Home, where guests can enjoy a complimentary World Class cocktail after completing a fun and interactive Flavour Masterclass hosted by in-store experts, all free of charge.

Details: The World Class Cocktail Festival is running from 9 March–30 April 2024. See the full list of participating bars at thebar.com

11. Watch A Rooftop Film

Film lovers rejoice: Rooftop Film Club is back for 2024, herading rooftop season with it. Both the Peckham and Stratford venues will be screening a mixture of new releases and cult classics throughout Spring and Summer, from Anatomy of a Fall to About Time, Poor Things to Notting Hill. Meanwhile, nibble on pizza, popcorn and desserts, and sip on cocktails from the bar.

Details: Roof East (Rooftop Film Club Roof East, Great Eastern Rd, London E15 1BB) will be open from 18 April, while the Peckham venue (Roof A, Bussey Building, 133 Rye Ln, London SE15 4ST) will open on 25 April. Book your tickets at rooftopfilmclub.com

Sgroppino cocktail

12. Celebrate Aperitivo Hour At Swift

With lighter evenings finally the norm once again, celebrate the weekend off in style with Aperitivo Hour cocktails at Swift. Order any cocktail before 6pm and get it for only £7.

Details: £7 cocktails are available everyday before 6pm at Swift Borough (66 Borough High St, London SE1 1XF; open from 3pm on Friday, 1pm on Saturday and close on Sundays) and Swift Shoreditch (91-93 Great Eastern St, London EC2A 3HZ; open from 3pm Friday–Sunday). Walk ins are very welcome, or secure your table at barswift.com

13. Skin Refresh For The Weekend

Skincare lover wondering what to do in London this weekend? Cult skin clinic Skin Laundry is pioneering the non-invasive laser facial, and we’d highly recommend it. With a limited number of services available, expect high quality, clinically proven treatments delivered by warm clinicians, many with no down time at all and some with instant glowy results. Unsure what to go for? Book a consultation and step into the calming studio ready for a candid conversation with one of the friendly clinicians regarding your skincare goals. They’ll guide you through the whole process, explaining why the lasers work, and what results you can expect. And even though ‘laser’ might sound daunting, don’t worry: it doesn’t hurt in the slightest. Already sold? Join the Skin Laundry club for multiple monthly facials and exclusive discounts on all services and products.

Details: Skin Laundry is open everyday in Chelsea (69A King’s Rd, London SW3 4NX), Soho (9 Newburgh St, Carnaby, London W1F 7RL) and Hampstead (68 Heath St, London NW3 1DN), 10am–8pm with reduced hours on Sundays. Book your appointment at skinlaundry.uk

14. Fire Dining Roast

Soho’s buzzy fire dining restaurant Sucre has launched a brand new Sunday roast inspired by the Argentinian tradition of Asado (grilling meat over an open flame). Guests can expect a meticulously curated menu of delicious meats and fish, flame grilled theatrically over an open fire in the heart of the restaurant. To start, chorizo criollo with chimichurri, crispy cauliflower florets with el hanout and tahini yoghurt, and castelfranco with chicory, pecorino, jalapeño and hazelnut will be on offer, while the mains are all about Asado, with sea bream, Argentine beef and chicken up for grabs, with sides of roasted brussel sprouts with kale and chilli oil, honey roasted carrots and sweet potato. Top it off with a trio of delectable desserts, and wash it all down with bottomless Argentinian bubbles for the perfect indulgent weekend treat.

Details: Sucre’s Sunday Fire Dining Roast is £45 per person and includes the ultimate three-course roast of grilled meats, fish, and vegetables, followed by indulgent desserts. Add bottomless bubbles for an extra £25 pp. Served from 12–4pm every Sunday at Sucre (47b Great Marlborough St, London W1F 7JP). Book your table at sucrerestaurant.com

15. Dine Atop The National Portrait Gallery

If you haven’t visited the rejuvenated National Portrait Gallery yet, where have you been hiding? (Away from the crowds, no doubt…) If you’ve been looking for an excuse to visit, this is it: perched atop the stunning, world-famous gallery is The Portrait, Richard Corrigan’s restaurant serving delicious British fare with stunning city views, from Big Ben to the London Eye. Gone are the days of stale bread rolls and lukewarm soups; this museum restaurant takes everything up a notch (or 10). The vibes are upscale yet super laid back, with pale wood interiors throughout and an open kitchen. Expect high quality artisan ingredients transformed into creative dishes, starting with the likes of duck heart, celeriac soup and an indulgent yet playful crispy slow poached egg. For mains, there are three pastas to choose from, or tuck into a hearty plate in classic British style; think Fillet of Beef, Lamb Rump, or the rich Guinea Fowl with nduja. Divine. Visit before a stroll through the gallery below or to refuel afterwards, resting your weary museum walked legs.

Details: The Portrait is open for lunch Tuesday–Sunday and dinner Wednesday–Sunday at National Portrait Gallery (St Martin’s Place, London, WC2H 0HE). Book your table at theportraitrestaurant.com

16. Bag Some Free Truffle

Truffle fans, you’re in luck: Pasta Evangelists’ prestigious Harrods Food Hall fresh pasta counter is gifting truffle products with all purchases from their fresh pasta counter. Containing the finest Umbrian truffles, choose between playful truffle grinders (the perfect topping for dishes from pasta to scrambled eggs) to truffle ‘tartufata’ sauce, perfect for filling pasta.

Details: Complimentary gifts are available to claim until the end of April with any Pasta Evangelists fresh pasta counter purchase in the Harrods Food Hall (Harrods Ground Floor, 87-135 Brompton Rd, London SW1X 7XL).

© David Parry/PA Wire.

17. See A New Sculpture

With only 13 percent of known sculptures in London attributed to women, Brookfield Properties and its new partner, The Association of Women in the Arts (AWITA), has unveiled the first of two consecutive exhibitions by women sculptors, curated through a female lens and timed to coincide with Womens’ History Month. ‘Creating visibility for female artists and valuing them through a commissioning and exhibition platform is vital to continue progress towards gender equity,’ explains Sigrid Kirk, co-founder of AWITA. Crafted by Jodie Carey and curated by Eve Miller, Beyond the Matrix is on display now.

Details: ‘Beyond the Matrix’ can be seen at 100 Bishopsgate (London EC2M 1GT) until September 2024.

Yoko Ono with Half-A-Room 1967 from HALF-A-WIND SHOW, Lisson Gallery, London, 1967. Photo © Clay Perry

18. See The Yoko Ono Exhibition

She may be best known for being married to John Lennon, but there’s a lot more to Yoko Ono than her Beatles connection. The Japanese musician and performance artist, now 90, has a fascinating body of work that spans over seven decades – which is being explored in an landmark exhibition at Tate Modern. The largest show Yoko Ono’s work yet, Music of the Mind will delve into some of the most talked about works of her career, from the 1950s to the modern day. Naturally, her London years (1966 – 1971) will be a point of intrigue: the period she became intertwined with a nonconformist network of artists and musicians, including Lennon. Her banned Film No. 4 (Bottoms) will be shown, and visitors will have the chance to participate in White Chess Set, a game with solely white chess pieces believed to symbolise Ono’s anti-war stance.

Details: 15 February–1 September at the Tate Modern (Bankside, London SE1 9TG). tate.org.uk

19. Visit The Immersive David Attenborough Experience

Nature fan looking for a new immersive experience in London? We’ve found the perfect thing for you to try this weekend in London: OTHERWORLD’s David Attenborough Immersive Anthology. A three-part immersive journey narrated by David Attenborough, this stunning 8K virtual reality casts nature’s beasts and beauties into sharp relief, featuring carnivorous flytraps, majestic butterflies and towering pterosaurs, all brought to life by state-of-the-art 3D cinematography and computer graphics, spatial audio and tactile bass technology.

Details: OTHERWORLD has two London venues: Victoria (85 Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 0QJ) and Hackney (336 Acton Mews, Haggerston, London E8 4EA). Tickets are £35 per person for the 70 minute experience, including a 15 minute interval, and can be purchased at other.world

20. Sip Cocktails In A Secret Bar

Sotto is London’s latest speakeasy bar opening, hidden beneath Soho’s buzzy Bocconcino. It’s all about classic Italian elegance, expressed through chic interiors, soft lighting, and a cool menu of unique savoury cocktails. Everything has an Italian twist: think an Old Fashioned infused with wild mushrooms, or the Avocado Amore blending the favourite fruit with Italian lemons, Calabrian chilli and basil foam, or the Velvet Corvina mixing corvina wine with peach purée, wine cordial, crème de cassis and blood orange. Enjoy alongside a selection of small plates for the perfect intimate date night spot. Cheers!

Details: Sotto is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 7pm–2am at Bocconcino Soho (59 Great Marlborough Street, London W1F 7JY). Book at bocconcinorestaurant.co.uk

21. Sound Healing At The Mandrake

Seeking some serenity? Experience the transformative combination of Reiki and Sound Healing every Saturday at The Mandrake Hotel, guided by skilled sound healer Maria Lodetoft. Expect Reiki healing amid the soothing soundscape of alchemy crystal singing bowls, producing tones and frequencies thought to align the chakras, calm the mind, and open the heart.

Details: Every Saturday at 11am at The Mandrake Hotel (20-21 Newman St, London W1T 1PG). Places cost £40 per person and can be booked at themandrake.com

22. The Leo Green Experience

Live music and jazz fans should flock to QT this weekend, where The Leo Green Experience celebrates the best sax solos centre stage, putting a high-energy sax twist on the biggest hits of the last 30 years. Featuring table service delivering an array of small plates and cocktails, there’s an old school vibe with an easy breezy air: think drinking, dancing and eating while Leo and his band raise the roof.

Details: Every Friday and Saturday evening from 7.30–9.15pm and 9.45pm–1am at QT (Middle Eight Hotel, 66 Great Queen St, London WC2B 5BX). Tickets are £25 for general admission, or £35 for seated table service. Book at middleeight.com

23. Wine & Small Plates

Nothing says ‘weekend’ better than a heady mixture of delicious small plates washed down with a crisp glass of wine. If you’re looking for a new go-to in London, try Humble Grape, with six venues across London all somehow retaining the je ne sais quoi of a chic, neighbourhood wine bar. All dishes are sustainable, organic and seasonally inspired, with mouth-watering options like crispy chilli fried chicken, moreish burrata and rich baked camembert with a hunk of sourdough bread. Don’t miss the crispy cauliflower with chilli ketchup and aioli: you’ll be batting forks with your peers to snag the last bite. On the drinks side, Humble Grape is all about organic, sustainable wine, whether you’re a connoisseur, a casual wine drinker, or a newbie to the scene. It’s got the perfect low-key vibe for a pre-Valentine’s date, a gossip with your pals , or simply select a bottle from the shop and drink it in the bar for the chicest of weekend activities.

Details:  Humble Grape has six London venues: Battersea, Islington, Canary Wharf, Fleet Street, Liverpool Street and Crouch End. humblegrape.co.uk

24. Dinner Break From Shopping

Going shopping in London this weekend? If you’re looking for a chic spot to fuel up after a busy day on your feet, Bar des Prés is the perfect answer. From acclaimed French chef Cyril Lignac, expect a thrilling blend of Franco-East Asian cuisines across meticulously crafted dishes, from California rolls to sashimi, gyoza to the signature Crunchy crab & avocado galette (you’ll see everyone ordering this; it tastes as beautiful as it looks). Sit barside for a front row seat to the cold kitchen show, plus watch the mixologists shaking up a storm, with a concise cocktail list catering to all tastes – the signatures are all delightful. There are some seasonal specials evoking perfect cosy vibes, from Beef Gyoza with Ginger and Soy to Miso Caramelised Aubergine to Roast Scallops with Potimarron Squash. But the signature dishes remain stunning as ever, including ever-delicious Black cod caramelised with miso, served with baby spinach (who knew spinach could be so delicious), plus perfect cubes of Wagyu and the ever-intriguing Vanilla wash (weird and wonderful). All this amid sophisticated, moody, intimate surrounds; if it’s just a cocktail you seek, venture downstairs for a subtly chic subterranean space.

Details: Bar des Prés (16 Albemarle St, London W1S 4HW) is open for dinner everyday from 6pm, closing at 11pm Monday–Saturday and 10pm on Sundays. bardespres.com

© Sam Harris

25. Live Music Bars

There’s only one thing better than live music: live music with a glass of something in your hand. London’s live music bar scene is thriving – it always has been – and from jazz clubs to hi-fi DJ venues, there are plenty to choose from. Our favourite this winter is Brilliant Corners, a vibrant yet moody spot tucked away in Dalston, serving natural wine, zingy cocktails and a delicious seasonal five-course set menu inspired by the izakaya of Japan.

Details: Brilliant Corners is open 5pm–1.30am on Fridays and Saturdays and 4pm–midnight on Sundays at 470 Kingsland Rd, London E8 4AE. Book your table at brilliantcornerslondon.co.uk

London’s Best Bars For Live Music

26. Feast At A Food Market

Foodie wondering what to do in London this weekend? We’ve found London’s coolest food market, and it’s tucked away in Battersea Power Station: Arcade Food Hall & Bar. With moody interiors drawing on the building’s art deco vibe with added diner details, curtains and a statement bar, pick from an array of dishes across 13 cuisines – from the Japanese Sushi Kamon (don’t miss the crispy rice and salmon or the moreish maki rolls) to American burgers at Manna to messy Mexican food from Mexa – with dishes delivered right to your table. It’s delicious, it’s classy, and it’s very buzzy come the weekend. Plus, there are two bars to quench your thirst: Tap Room with its wall of 36 taps, serving a host of beers from international and South London brewery alongside cocktails with locally sourced ingredients; and ABC Bar, serving a concise menu of the world’s most famous cocktails. For a little pick me up, opt for one of the £5 Boiler Makers, shot-sized classic cocktails.

Details: Open Monday–Wednesday, 11am–11.30pm; Thursday–Saturday, 11am–midnight; and Sundays 11am–9pm at Arcade Battersea (1st Floor, Boiler House, Battersea Power Station, 330 The Power Station, Circus Rd S, London SW11 8DD). The best entrance is the North/Riverside entrance of the Power Station. arcadefoodhall.com

27. Columbia Road Flower Market

Brighten the gloomy winter days with a trip to London’s premiere flower market this weekend: Columbia Road. Taking place every Sunday between Bethnal Green and Hoxton, it attracts people from far and wide in droves and for good reason, offering a glorious slice of unchanging London life, with reasonable prices across flowers and bulbs, succulents and houseplants. With a rainbow of vibrant colours, it’s hard to resist succumbing to the classic Instagram shots. Afterwards, head into Shoreditch, or grab a bagel on the ever-popular Brick Lane.

Details: Sundays, 8am–2pm at Columbia Road, Bethnal Green E2 7RG. columbiaroad.info

More Of London’s Gorgeous Flower Markets To Visit

28. Go Bowling

OK, OK, a generic weekend suggestion – but London’s bowling alleys are some of the nation’s best. Whether you’re looking to host a big birthday blowout, make plans with friends or you’re in need of new date ideas, you’ll bowl everyone over with these spots .

29. Learn To Make Pasta

Wondering what to do in London next weekend? Try your hand at the Italian art of pasta making at Pasta Evangelists’ Pasta Academy in Farringdon. Expect to learn all about the best ingredients and techniques, and eat your creation at the end, too. Read our review of the Beginners’ Class here .

Details: Pasta Evangelists’ Pasta Academy (62-63 Long Lane, Barbican, London EC1A 9EJ). These classes are extremely high-demand, so your weekend activity will inevitably be booking ahead for a future weekend. pastaevangelists.com

Still wondering what to do in London this weekend? Sign up to the C&TH What’s On newsletter for the hottest ideas delivered directly to your inbox

With the BRSO, Sir Simon Rattle gets the orchestra he always wanted

Rattle makes his first visit to d.c. in 20 years with the munich-based bavarian radio symphony orchestra.

For those who love out-of-town orchestras, this is a particularly strong season. The Rotterdam Philharmonic brought its tour to an energizing close a few weeks ago. On April 27 , you can hear the Bamberg Symphony perform with pianist Hélène Grimaud at George Mason University. And on April 30, Washington Performing Arts welcomes the arguable highlight of the spring roster of visitors, the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, led by one of the classical world’s most charismatic conductors, Sir Simon Rattle.

Rattle, 69, is the former principal conductor of the Berlin Philharmonic and is currently in his inaugural season as director of the BRSO. In February, the Czech Philharmonic announced the appointment of Rattle as its next principal guest conductor for a five-year term, effective with the upcoming 2024-2025 season.

A massive star in his native England (he was born in Liverpool), Rattle launched his career with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra from 1980 to 1998. And, most recently, he concluded a high-profile six seasons leading the London Symphony Orchestra, leaving the post as sweeping governmental budget cuts and post-Brexit economic shakeouts have destabilized Britain’s classical landscape. Rattle has told interviewers that his reasons for leaving were “entirely personal,” allowing him to be closer to his home and family in Berlin.

One of Munich’s four orchestras (along with the Munich Philharmonic , the Munich Radio Orchestra and the Bavarian State Orchestra ) the BRSO has been helmed by a proud lineage of directors including Eugen Jochum, Rafael Kubelík, Sir Colin Davis, Lorin Maazel and until his death in 2019, Mariss Jansons.

The orchestra’s long-standing “Musica Viva” series of works by contemporary composers was founded in 1945 by Karl Amadeus Hartmann , picked up in 1948 by Bavarian Radio (a year before the BRSO’s founding) and continues to this day . Boasting a long legacy of composers conducting their own works — Stravinsky, Boulez, Penderecki and Stockhausen all premiered music with the orchestra — the series has helped cement the orchestra’s reputation as hospitable to experimentation. (This summer, the BRSO will launch an experiment pointed the opposite direction — a period-instrument ensemble that will spend the summer exploring Bach’s cantatas.)

Rattle made his debut with the BRSO (and the Bavarian Radio Chorus, which he will also lead) in 2010 with a performance of Schumann’s “Paradise and the Peri.” And the affection he has since developed for the orchestra appears mutual — its website features an excited cartoon Rattle, his most prominent feature that signature bouncing cloud of white curls.

On April 30, Rattle and the BRSO come to the Kennedy Center with a program including Wagner’s “Prelude und Liebestod” from “Tristan und Isolde,” Alexander von Zemlinsky’s “Symphonische Gesänge” (a piece featuring words by Black American writers including Langston Hughes, Jean Toomer and Countee Cullen), and Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 6 in F Major” (the “Pastorale”).

I caught up with the conductor by phone from his home in Berlin, where he has lived since 2003 with his wife, the mezzo-soprano Magdalena Kožená, and their three children.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

You’re making your first visit to D.C. in 20 years with the BRSO. What do you see as the value of an orchestra touring internationally in 2024?

We are all thinking so carefully about what we’re doing, why we’re doing it, whether this is the right thing to be doing. All the European orchestras are having enormous debates about it, just for the sake of the planet. Musically, the benefits have always been enormous, to share the way an orchestra plays music with other countries. America is full of great orchestras, but European orchestras play in a very different way, and we all learn from each other. But also, in playing, going around the world, we get closer together. A tour is a unique opportunity — we try to leave something in the places we go, so we’re not just jetting off and jetting back.

What can you share about the character of the BRSO that drew you to it?

I fell in love with the orchestra when I was a teenager. I collected records and I loved Rafael Kubelík, who was the conductor at the time. He influenced me in so many ways. When I was 16, the orchestra came to Liverpool and played the Beethoven Ninth symphony. I had never seen such a complete contact between conductor and orchestra; they seemed to be inside each other’s skins. There seemed to be rather extraordinary improvisation going on. This idea that an orchestra and conductor had such a degree of communication was one of my most enormous lessons in conducting, full stop — that this was even possible. From there I did whatever I could to sneak into Kubelík’s rehearsals to watch how this happens. It never occurred to me that one day I’d be at the head of the same orchestra.

What’s at the core of your compatibility with the orchestra?

I’m not always a very enthusiastic guest conductor. I tend to be terribly cautious. But when I first met them I realized immediately what a sense of collaboration there was there. This isn’t just the influence of Kubelík, but of [Mariss] Jansons. They came in with the idea of collaborating as fully as possible. How do you believe this music goes, and what can we all do together to make that a reality? I realized within half an hour at the first rehearsal that this was an orchestra I wanted to keep in touch with. Like everybody else, I thought we would have at least another decade of Mariss’s wonderful music-making. But of course, the last time the orchestra came to the United States was the last concert Mariss conducted — at Carnegie Hall, which he almost didn’t get through. He was very weak, but still full of music, and the orchestra felt they had to give him everything in return. I think that’s still a traumatic thing for an orchestra to have gone through.

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What was the thinking behind the program? With the exception of the Zemlinsky, it’s music that we’re quite familiar with. Is this in service of showing something distinctive about the BRSO?

In some ways with the touring repertoire, this is just the way this particular cookie has crumbled. But, of course, what you will hear is one of the greatest of all the German orchestras playing right in the center of their repertoire. And the Zemlinsky is this extraordinary thing, with words written by great Black American authors and interpreted by Zemlinsky. This is very typical of the Weimar time.

You just left the London Symphony Orchestra. I wonder if you could tell me a little bit about the state of the arts in England. What’s happening?

It’s a struggle in my old country — there’s absolutely no doubt. What is amazing is the level of music-making that there is, despite the fact there is so little support. My old orchestra in Birmingham, along with every other arts institution in Birmingham, just got the news that next year the funding will be cut by 50 percent, and the following year by 100 percent. That’s a very extreme example of what’s going on in our country, but it’s a struggle. The LSO, which is a wonderful orchestra — they earn their living by touring. It’s not a boring life, but it’s a brutal life. As I face my 70s, it’s just simply something I couldn’t keep doing. They need to use up somebody else. It was of course, a very, very difficult decision to make, but it was absolutely a necessary one for my family.

And what about in Germany? I’ve read interviews where you’ve commented on how differently classical music is embraced.

I mean, of course, not everything is perfect in mainland Europe, but particularly in Central Europe, music is just considered absolutely part of what is necessary. I used to enjoy very much the fact that Angela Merkel would go watch football one day and come to the Berlin Philharmonic the next. So in that way, the idea that culture is important and should be part of everybody’s life is still on the agenda. But there are a lot of discussions about radio orchestras in Europe, about whether this is still necessary, whether this should still exist, whether these should still be supported. So I think there are plenty of fights ahead. And this is a problem for the arts all over the world: simply, to put a stake in the ground and say we are here, this is still a necessity, not a luxury.

The Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra performs at the Kennedy Center Concert Hall on April 30. Visit www.washingtonperformingarts.org .

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France, India, Russia, UK issue travel warnings over Israel-Iran tensions

Warnings come as Tehran promises reprisals against Israel for the deadly April 1 attack on an Iranian consulate in Syria.

Countries including France, India, Russia, Poland and the United Kingdom have warned their citizens against travelling to Israel, the occupied Palestinian territories and, in some cases, the wider region amid threats of an Iranian attack in response to a strike this month on its consulate in Damascus.

Iran has threatened reprisals against Israel over the strike in the Syrian capital on April 1, which killed seven Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps members, including two generals, leading to fears of an escalation of violence in the Middle East.

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The French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs on Friday advised its citizens against travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian territories.

In a statement on the social media platform X, the ministry added that relatives of Iran-based diplomats will return to France and French civil servants are now banned from conducting any missions in the countries and territories in question.

The UK told its citizens to avoid all but essential travel to Israel and Palestine over the “possibility of an attack on Israeli territory from Iran”.

In an update, the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office warned against “all travel” to northern Israel, the Gaza Strip, areas near Gaza and the occupied West Bank – excluding occupied East Jerusalem and Route 1 between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

Russia strongly recommended its citizens “refrain from travelling to the region”, emphasising security risks in Israel, Lebanon and Palestine.

“The situation in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict zone as well as in the area of the ‘Blue Line’ between Lebanon and Israel remains unstable,” its Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

Poland’s Foreign Ministry also advised against travel to Israel, Palestine and Lebanon.

“It cannot be ruled out that there will be a sudden escalation of military operations, which would cause significant difficulties in leaving these three countries,” it said in a statement. “Any escalation may lead to significant restrictions in air traffic and the inability to cross land border crossings.”

India’s statement covered Iran and Israel, calling on Indians not to go to the two countries until further notice in view of the “prevailing situation in the region”.

The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi said Indian citizens who are in the two countries should observe “utmost precautions about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum”.

Germany meanwhile warned its citizens to leave Iran specifically, saying escalating tensions could affect exit routes.

“In the current tensions, especially between Israel and Iran, there is a risk of a sudden escalation,” the Foreign Office said. “German citizens are at concrete risk of being arbitrarily arrested and interrogated and being given long prison sentences. Dual citizens with Iranian and German nationality are especially at risk,” it added.

Separately, German flagship airline Lufthansa extended its suspension of flights to and from Tehran until Thursday and will not use Iranian airspace during that time.

Real and viable threat, US says

The United States has restricted its employees in Israel and their family members from personal travel outside the greater Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beersheba areas.

An imminent attack by Iran on Israel is a “real” and “viable” threat, US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told journalists on Friday, adding that Washington would make sure the Israelis “have what they need and that they’re able to defend themselves”.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, President Joe Biden said: “We are devoted to the defence of Israel. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel, and Iran will not succeed.”

The top US commander for the Middle East, General Erik Kurilla, is also in Israel for talks with its military officials on security threats. His trip was moved up from a previously scheduled date “due to recent developments”, Pentagon spokesman Major General Pat Ryder said on Thursday.

After Kurilla discussed the tensions with Iran with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on Friday, Gallant said the US and Israel were “shoulder to shoulder” in facing possible threats.

“We are prepared to defend ourselves on the ground and in the air, in close cooperation with our partners, and we will know how to respond,” the defence chief added.

The Wall Street Journal, quoting a person familiar with the matter, reported on Thursday that Israel was preparing for an attack by Iran as soon as Friday or Saturday.

Al Jazeera’s Hamdah Salhut, reporting from East Jerusalem, said the Israeli army announced that it was preparing on all fronts offensively and defensively.

“A couple of weeks ago, the Israelis increased their alertness level, calling up reservists and bolstering air defence systems,” she said, adding that Israeli officials said they were prepared for anything.

Israel has bombarded the Gaza Strip since October 7 and sent in ground forces, killing at least 33,600 Palestinians and injuring more than 76,000. Hamas’s October 7 attacks on southern Israel killed more than 1,100 people there.

Israel has also stepped up strikes against Iranian personnel and allies in Syria and Lebanon and has traded near daily cross-border fire with the Lebanese group Hezbollah since the start of the war.

Major Middle East airlines to resume flights after Iran's attack on Israel

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Reporting by Federico Maccioni and Jana Choukeir in Dubai; Adam Makary and Muhammad Al Gebaly in Cairo; Editing by Alex Richardson, Sharon Singleton and Jan Harvey

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As its 2015 nuclear deal with major powers has eroded over the years, Iran has expanded and accelerated its nuclear programme, reducing the time it would need to build a nuclear bomb if it chose to, though it denies wanting to.

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