Cold, grey and wet – London weather can certainly be grim and it’s always good fodder for a bit of a collective whinge. But when summer rolls around, it’s like a whole new city.
As the mercury rises, the parks come alive and a host of outdoor events vie for space in the calendar. On the flipside, though, simply surviving the day to day brings some brand new challenges. Here are our best tips for surviving London in the summer.
Enjoy alfresco dining and drinking
When it gets too unbearably sticky, we advise heading straight for the nearest watering hole. Beer gardens are at their best in summer, although you may be jostling with many other elbows out there. Or take things up a notch and head up to a rooftop terrace to absorb the splendid views as you sip a cool beverage…
Get out on the water
London has a number of pools and ponds for cooling off, as well as fountains and water features just crying out for you to dive right in. Another idea: try your hand at paddling up the Thames. Alternatively, head to a nearby watersports centre where you can learn the ropes of sailing.
Embrace your inner night owl
The longer evenings mean it’s light until 9pm or even later. Luckily, lots of attractions extend their opening hours into the night during the summer season so you can make the most of the extra daylight and see the sights. We also recommend hitting the shops either first thing in the morning or post-dinner time if you want to avoid the crowds.
Dress tactically
It gets HOT in London over summer. The heat and humidity can reach highs you’re just not used to. Wear the lightest, thinnest clothing you have (and maybe a light jacket in case the rain decides to make a cameo). Remember, dark colours are not your friend; they absorb heat.
But whatever you do, don’t make the mistake of overdressing in summer. Particularly if you’re taking the Underground around, the sheer mass of bodies pressed together will send temperatures skyrocketing within minutes. And on that note, travel light. The trains are extra congested in summer and the last thing you want is to be lugging around dead weight.
Bring water – and plenty of it
As in, more than you think you need. There’s no such thing as too much! Dehydration can set in fast in summer and it’s vital to keep the H20 flowing. The last thing you want is to be that person who faints on the Tube.
Take a walk
Or you could just forget about the Tube altogether and explore on foot as much as possible (it’ll probably be cooler and more pleasant). There are plenty of amazing sights to keep you entertained and if you get lost, well, that’s half the fun!
(Feature image: Nick)
