Have fun in the sun

Schools out! With summer drawing to a close, make the most of the final weeks of sun by checking out these cool activities to do in London.

Enjoy some of London's best parks

• Hampstead Heath

Located in the beautiful North London, Hampstead Heath park is an ideal place to enjoy the sunshine. This park boasts some of the highest points and best view points in London with numerous sports pitches, an athletics track, playground for kids, picnic spots and splash pools to name a few! The paths are easy to follow and perfect for adventurers who are looking to explore.

The park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

• Hyde Park

This luxurious park located in Westminster is one of the largest green spaces between Kensington Palace all the way to St James's Park. Visitors can enjoy a plethora of activities including a self-guided audio tour written and narrated by one of their expert guides. 

The park also boasts a 40-acre recreational lake where you can grab a pedalo or a row boat and sail across the river. You can also enjoy a beautiful walk by the Diana Memorial Fountain - built with some of the best materials and technology around.

The aim of the design was to mirror the life of Princess Diana - at the highest point of the fountain, water flows in two directions in bubbles and swirls before settling at a calm meeting point at the bottom of the fountain.

The memorial also has a path which is accessible for wheelchair users however there are also three bridges that allow visitors to cross the water and access the heart of the fountain.

• Greenwich Park

Greenwich park is one of the largest spaces of greenery in South East London with a famous view over the capital at the top of the highest hill. Enjoy the scenery and the panoramic views of the Royal Observatory and the Queen's House. 

Greenwich park is also home to a vast variety of wildlife and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the parks beautiful meadows, gardens and woodland areas - if you're lucky you may even spot some deer!

Sports lovers can also enjoy the various sports facilities located at the park including activities like tennis, cricket and running. There's also large open spaces ideal for yoga!

• Richmond Park 

Richmond park covers 2500 acres of woodland, hills and flourishing gardens! Here you can enjoy the free roaming deer, with up to 630 animals to spot. However, it's important to remember to keep your dogs on leads - particularly during their birthing seasons.

For those who enjoy being active and want to sweat off some steam - be sure to make use of the horse riding, golf and off-road cycling facilities available at the park.

King Henry's Mound can also be found at Richmond park - which King Henry VII used as a vantage point for hunting. At this spot you can enjoy marvellous sites of well known landmarks including St Pauls Cathedral and Windsor Castle.

The best time to visit this spot would likely be in the morning as it does get quite busy and not just on weekends. Evenings at 7pm can also be quite ideal.

• Primrose hill 

Primrose hill is located at the north of Regent's Park with spectacular views at the top of the hill, particularly during the sunset!

This luscious piece of greenery was once King Henry III's favourite hunting grounds and the landscape would lure some of London's wealthiest residents.  

Here you can enjoy panoramic views of the country's capital and capture views of London's most iconic spots including the London Eye and the Shard. Adjacent to Primrose Hill park lies Regent's Canal with beautiful waterways and canal boat rides guests can enjoy.

There are also a plethora of shops, restaurants and colourful quaint cafes in the area resembling the vibe of a London movie!

Take a dip in London's coolest pools

• Brockwell Lido

Brockwell Lido is located in the corner of Brockwell Park in Brixton. It's often referred to as "Brixton's Beach" due to the glorious 50-meter outdoor swimming pool, the perfect spot to unwind on a hot day!

The pool is also surrounded by an art deco building with a modern gym and studio inside. If you're into group classes this is also the place for you - there are extensive group exercises classes including HIIT, yoga and Pilates!

Whilst poolside, don't forget to grab a delicious bite to eat at the Lido Café which offers a number of light meals, snacks and drinks.

General admission for adults is £6.10, and £3.50 for children

• Charlton Lido

Set in the heart of South London, Charlton Lido and Lifestyle Club offers an Olympic sized swimming pool along with state-of-the-art gym equipment and TRX classes. 

Tennis lovers can enjoy a floodlit tennis court perfect to test your skills with your friends!

Make the most of the summer period by soaking up the ray on the sun terraces. There is also a seasonal Coffee corner where visitors can enjoy a chilled beverage, open from June to September. 

We advise ensuring you bring a towel along in case there is no access to sun loungers. 

• Hampstead Health Swimming Ponds

Hampstead Heath offers a variety of different outdoor swimming spots for water lovers to enjoy. Dive into the 3 natural bathing ponds on offer and become one with nature.

The Mixed Pond - this pond is lifeguarded and is only open outside the winter months. 

Pre-booking is required for most slots, with opening hours from 7am-8:30pm.

The Mixed Pond is located on the Hampstead side of the Heath.

The Ladies & Men's Ponds - both of these ponds are located on the Highgate side of the Heath - they are lifeguarded and open throughout the whole year. 

Similar to the Mixed Pond, pre-booking is required for some slots, especially during summer.

• The London Aquatics Centre

The London Aquatics Centre is located in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. This state-of-the-art facility offers a range of activities catering to the whole family deep in the heart of the home of the 2012 Olympics.

There are fun family sessions available, along with diving lessons, swimming lessons and lane swimming across three fantastic pools.

Gym lovers, beginners and fitness enthusiasts can enjoy a range of fitness classes along with luxurious gym equipment ready to aid you in your fitness journey.

The Junior Gym offers a space for children aged 11-17 to enjoy being active in a fun, safe environment. Qualified instructors are available to support young people with their sessions and help keep them motivated whilst learning new skills.

Explore the wonders of the Southbank

• SEA LIFE London Aquarium

What's inside the SEALIFE centre?

Visit today to unlock an amazing underwater world with over 650 different species of cool aquatic creatures. With a range of dazzling aquarium zones, guests can enjoy a variety of experiences including the Polar Adventure - where you will travel to the extremities of the Antarctic and meet our loveable Gentoo Penguins.

If you're interested in learning some fun facts about animals in the rainforest, the Rainforest Adventure is the place for you. From enticing creepy crawlies to charming crocs and curious critters - don't forget to also say hello to our terrapin pals and join our turtle rescue mission this summer.

• The London Dungeon

Unlock a 1000 years of London's darkest history and embark on the journey of a lifetime at the London Dungeon. Thrill seekers can enjoy 12 actor-led live shows, 2 chilling rides and finish their journey off in the cool Victorian themed Tavern bar - ready to quench your thirst?

This summer, Royal History is on show, see the side they don't want you to know in the brand new show Rotten Royals!

You've been found guilty of conspiring against King Henry VIII and diddlin with Queen Anne Boleyn and will now be taken to the tower of torture. Dare you go against the greatest royal tyrant in English history?

• Shrek's Adventure! London

If you and the family are in the mood for a brilliantly bonkers immersive experience at the heart of London - don't forget to check out Shrek's Adventure! London this summer.  Venture through Far Far Away and enjoy 12 laugh-out-loud live, actor led shows. Your journey begins on the magical 4D flying bus, help collect the special ingredients needed to return home safely and meet Shrek!

This summer, a new monarch has been crowned! For a limited time only, guests can meet Prince Charming, test their strength and try to remove the sword from the stone before grabbing some cool pics with Charming himself!

• The London Eye

Discover one of London's most popular attractions and explore the sights with a 360 degree view on the London Eye.

On a clear day you can see several of London's most spectacular monuments including Big Ben, the Shard, Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament.

With 32 London Eye pods to choose from - each pod represents one of London's boroughs. There's also a number of cool VIP experiences to choose from - enjoy a truly memorable romantic experience on the Cupid's Pod and show your special someone just how much they're loved. Enhance your experience with a glass of bubbly in the Champagne Experience - this experience includes a chilled bottle of Pommery Brut Royal Champagne along with fast track boarding.

To learn more about the experiences on the London Eye, please visit their website. 

• The London Eye Riverside Cruise 

Those looking to venture onto the River Thames can enjoy a 40-minute boat sight seeing tour and discover London from a unique viewpoint aboard the London Eye River Cruise. Expert guides provide live commentary as you set off from the pier at the London Eye. 

This is a circular tour so it does not make any stops during the duration of the cruise. 

Grab a bite to eat in the sun

• Between the Bridges 

After all that fun in the sun I'm sure you've worked up an appetite. Between the bridges offers a unique riverside view on London's Southbank. There's sensational street food, multiple bars, craft beef and cocktails - the perfect treat after a day of activities. 

• Wahaca Southbank

Wahaca offers vibrant Mexican dishes of market-style food and cocktails. From tacos to burritos to delicious plant-based chicken, the menu is endless. 

• Cavo London 

If you're in the mood for some Mediterranean cuisine, be sure to stop by Cavo London for inspirational food and wine. Visitors can also enjoy their vibrant hand-crafted cocktails on their rooftop terrace - located in Tottenham Court Road.

• Coppa Club

Located close to the Tower of London, Coppa Club offers a picturesque view of the Southbank skyline. From mid-week lunches to private dinners in the intimate igloos, there is a lot of offer at this unique establishment and it's one not to be missed!

With so many fun activities to choose from, be sure to finish your summer with a bang!