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Best Things to Do on the August Bank Holiday (2025) In London
There are certain days you look forward to all year – one of them being the August Bank Holiday in London. This year, the holiday falls on Monday, August 25, spanning from Saturday through Monday, offering the perfect opportunity to enjoy the final summer days.
There are countless things to enjoy in London, but few compare to the joy of a summer Bank Holiday Weekend. It’s the perfect time to take a break from the daily grind, soak in the city’s vibrant street culture, explore cultural events, and share great food with loved ones.
There’s something for everyone to enjoy in London over the bank holiday weekend. Here are a few of the most enjoyable activities we have compiled for you:
Host A Party Over the Bank Holiday Weekend
If you want to avoid the crowds and more than usual hustle and bustle of London during the weekend, why not host your bank holiday party at home or a hired venue? The August Bank Holiday is the perfect opportunity to gather family and friends, catch up, and enjoy delicious food together.
Hosting a party is easier than you’d expect. Begin by deciding whether to host at your own home or hire a venue. Next, consider party rental equipment from a reliable event services rental company to set up and decorate the venue.
You can either hire party rental equipment separately or go for themed packages. Popular options for themed party rentals include the elegant 1920s Gatsby soirées, sophisticated yet stunning garden parties, the classic James Bond, or even the whimsical Alice in Wonderland theme.
Event Rental Service provides complete décor packages and even sets up the décor to get the venue ready for the party.
Helpful Links for Renting Party Equipment
Daniel Lay Event Services offers an extensive hire catalogue that includes the following:
Visit the Energetic Notting Hill Carnival
Taking place in London since 1966, the Notting Hill Carnival is a bank holiday tradition for every Londoner. The event is especially significant in British-African Caribbean and British-Indo Caribbean culture and is also considered one of the world’s largest street festivals.
There’s no shortage of vibrant and exciting experiences to enjoy during the festival weekend (August 23–25).
The event kicks off on Saturday with Panorama, a much-loved Steel Band competition (tickets required). Sunday is dedicated to children and families, featuring a colourful mini parade just for the little ones. Monday brings the main event—the iconic adult parade that fills the streets with music, dance, and celebration.
Notting Hill Carnival is known to have around two million participants each year and is loved by many for bringing life to Notting Hill’s streets. Expect bursts of colour and music that are adored by every Londoner this year.
All you need to do is arrive early, wear comfortable shoes, and soak up the incredible atmosphere we adore when London’s multicultural spirit unites.
Helpful Links for Visiting Notting Hill Carnival 2025
- Official Event Dates & Info
Find the full schedule, event breakdown by day, and detailed descriptions directly from the Carnival organis (Notting Hill Carnival) - Panorama Steel Band Competition Tickets
If you’re interested in Saturday’s ticketed UK National Panorama Steel Band Competition at Emslie Horniman’s Pleasance Park, you can purchase tickets via Ticketsource. (Notting Hill Carnival) - Travel & Transport Advice (TfL)
Transport for London offers guidance for navigating road closures, station limitations, and safe routes to and from the Carnival. (Transport for London) - Visitor Guide & Insider Tips
Londonist provides an excellent overview, including dates, what to expect, and highlights of Carnival’s energetic atmosphere. (Londonist)
Experience a Live Concert at Battersea Park
If you want to spend the bank holiday weekend surrounded by music in a relaxing setting, consider going to the Battersea Park in Concert. The event is held over the weekend (August 23–25) and unites world-class performers on the breathtaking riverside of Battersea Park.
The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Blues Orchestra have also performed at live concerts in the past. Additionally, if you’re into other genres of music such as jazz, disco, pop, or even film soundtracks, you can also expect some themed music events for your enjoyment.
The concert is ideal for those willing to spend their long weekend in a cosy or romantic setting that is also affordable. You can even take your picnic hampers along and treat yourself to some delicious food from the pop-up stalls. Have a drink or two while the sun sets on the Thames, and let the music, combined with the stunning scenery, wash away the stress of the week.
Helpful Links for Attending the Live Concert at Battersea Park
- Official Event Page & Ticket Booking
Secure your tickets and view the full lineup for Battersea Park in Concert, including weekend and individual-day options: (Battersea Park in Concert) - Ticket Purchase (See Tickets)
Buy general admission, weekend passes, or VIP options directly from the official retailer: (com, batterseaparkinconcert.seetickets.com) - Program Highlights & VIP Upgrades
Explore ticket types like Gold Circle seating or the Diamond VIP Experience, and check out the gourmet picnic hampers and Kids Tipiland for families: (Battersea Park in Concert, Best of South West LDN)
Delve into London’s Art, Theatre, and Culture
London is one of the world’s most influential cultural capitals. There are centuries of artistic tradition and contemporary innovation to explore. And there’s no better time to do this than in August, when the city’s cultural calendar is at its peak.
Several exhibitions are being held during the bank holiday weekend this year. Notable exhibitions include Jenny Saville at the National Portrait Gallery, Yoshitomo Nara at Hayward Gallery, and the innovative virtual showcase “Virtual Beauty” at Somerset House. These exhibitions are known to showcase a blend of classy artistry and state-of-the-art installations ideal for people of diverse tastes in art and culture.
Moreover, London’s theatre scene can never be underestimated either. Iconic West End productions like The Lion King, Mamma Mia!, and The Book of Mormon are still a hit among the public and continue to draw theatre enthusiasts. There are also plenty of new shows to enjoy, like Evita, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Make sure to book in advance, especially for popular performances likely to attract families.
Helpful Links for Visiting Art Exhibitions, West End & Theatre Shows
- Jenny Saville – The Anatomy of Painting (National Portrait Gallery)
Runs June 20 to September 7, 2025. (Nature Portfolio Group) - Yoshitomo Nara (Hayward Gallery, Southbank Centre)
Open from June 10 to August 31, 2025. (GalleriesNow.net) - Virtual Beauty (Somerset House)
Running from late July through to September 28, 2025. (Time Out Worldwide) - The Lion King (Lyceum Theatre)
Tickets are available via the official box office for the best deals. (co The Lion King UK) - Mamma Mia! (Novello Theatre)
Tickets are available via the official site or agents like London Theatre Direct and SeeTickets. (London Theatre Direct, seetickets.com) - Evita (London Palladium)
Tickets can be booked via Official London Theatre or platforms like TodayTix. (Official London Theatre, London Theatre Direct) - The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (Sadler’s Wells)
Tickets start from £15, with captioned and touch-audio performances available. (lionwitchonstage.com, theatreticketsdirect.co.uk)
Family-friendly Activities and Outdoor Fun
In London’s busy life, the chance of spending quality time with your loved ones is rare. There are several activities during the Bank Holiday weekend that families can check out for a memorable and relaxing time.
Consider becoming a tourist for a day and taking a speedboat ride on the Thames for a thrilling sightseeing experience. Or, hop on the English Tea Bus Tour and sip your afternoon tea with stunning London views.
Popular spots such as SEA Life Aquarium, Shrek’s Adventure!, and the London Transport Museum offer several engaging activities that are perfect for children. The Changing of the Guard walking tour is also a hit among families wanting to spend their weekend outside. Nothing is stopping you from acting like a tourist in your city and making lasting memories. Therefore, don’t hesitate to catch a glimpse of the evergreen British culture and vibes!
If you’re into active experiences, try out fun activities such as street-inspired mini-art or VR gaming areas – these options are usually a priority among young adults. However, parents can also indulge themselves in the activities to enjoy the city beyond its popular landmark activities.
Helpful Links for Family-friendly Activities and Outdoor Fun in London
- Thames Rockets – Ultimate London Adventure: Tickets start at £54.95 adults / £49.95 children. (thamesrockets.com)
- Thamesjet by City Cruises: Tickets at £49 per adult, suitable for ages 3+. (City Experiences™)
- VisitBritain’s Afternoon Tea Bus Tour: Tours start from about £49. (visitbritainshop.com)
- SEA LIFE London Aquarium + Multi-Attraction Tickets: Book online to save up to 52%. You can bundle SEA LIFE with nearby attractions like Shrek’s Adventure!, the London Eye, and more, valid for 90 days with free rescheduling. (visitsealife.uk.com, SEA LIFE)
- London Transport Museum Annual Pass: Unlimited entry for a year—prices start at £24.50 (adults). Children go free, and those on Universal Credit can enter for £1. (ltmuseum.co.uk)
- com Royal Walking Tour: Priced from £15, combines the Changing of the Guard with a Westminster walking tour. Runs about 2 hours and includes key royal landmarks. (visitlondon.com)
Go Out for Brunch or Lunch to Savour the London Cuisine
There are countless delicious food options to savour over the bank holiday weekend in London. Whether you’re looking for a fancy brunch out or want to check out some casual pop-up dining events around the city, London’s food scene is up and thriving during the bank holiday weekend.
Restaurants, bars, and cafes also offer discount deals to celebrate the big day. For instance, Shake Shack is offering a “buy any burger and get another free” deal for the bank holiday. So, take a loved one along and enjoy a free burger. You can also visit the Brixton favourite – Fish, Wings, and Tings – a celeb-filled spot offering tender curry chicken and flaky roti, a sweet jerk chicken, and salt fish fitters that create a perfect savoury experience.
And just around the corner, there’s a gospel choir that adds to the stunning atmosphere of Brixton Market. So, make sure to pay a visit and bless your taste buds while enjoying the long bank holiday weekend.
Helpful Links for Brunch or Lunch Venues in London
- London Pop-ups: An up-to-date map and listing of all pop-up restaurants, bars, supper clubs, and food residencies happening across London. (londonpopups.com)
- Shake Shack UK – Official Site & Offers: For general info about the brand, location finder, menu, and current promotions. (Shake Shack)
- Fish, Wings & Tings Website – Restaurant info, menu details, and a “Book Now” option. (fishwingsandtings.co.uk)
Make the Most of the Annual August Bank Holiday
Whether you immerse yourself in the lively Notting Hill streets, enjoy the relaxing scenery of the Battersea Park, look around through galleries and theatres, or opt for a relaxing and cosy gathering with your loved ones at home – the August Bank Holiday 2025 is the day we’ve been looking forward to since the beginning of the year to unwind and relax. So, irrespective of what you choose to do, make sure to create unforgettable memories for the holiday.
