Green and white striped deck chairs in an outdoor, park setting.

Top things to do in the Royal Parks this summer

Got plans for summer in London?

The Royal Parks are the perfect escape from the city buzz and we’re here to help you make the most of them. Our amazing team of gardeners, wildlife experts and volunteers have been working hard to keep the parks looking their best and feeling welcoming for everyone.

Whether you're up for a guided walk, want to get involved in some citizen science, or feel like some live music, there’s loads going on. Check out our round-up of top things to do in the Royal Parks this summer and find your new favourite way to enjoy these beautiful green spaces.

Family Events

Bring the whole family together for a day of family fun that is packed full of exciting, hands-on events in the Royal Parks. Suitable for all ages. 

Nature Roadshows

When: 30 July - 21 August
Where: The Regents Park, The Green Park, Greenwich Park, Kensington Gardens, Bushy Park, Richmond Park, St. James's Park

Find out more

 

Play in the Park

When: 10 April - 14 August 
Where: Greenwich Park, Kensington Gardens, The Regent's Park & Primrose Hill

Find out more

 

Discovery Days

When: 5 - 21 August 
Where: Hyde Park

Meadow Madness, Peter Pan & Wild About Water

Children playing a quiz game outdoors
Image of children holding hands and running joyfully, with fun masks on their faces.

Boating & Swimming - Book Online

Cool off this summer and make the most of your day by planning ahead. Pre-book a pedalo or rowboat session on the idyllic Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park, or enjoy a quaint boating experience in the charming Regent’s Park.

Book Online - Hyde Park Boating

Book Online - The Regent's Park Boating

If you're ready to jump right into the water, you can enjoy a swim at one of London's most iconic 'open water' swimming location, The Serpentine Lido. 

Book Online - Serpentine Lido

 

Boating in The Regent's Park
The Regent's Park & Primrose Hill

Hidden Stories Series

Uncover the fascinating layers of history hidden in plain sight with our Hidden Stories walking tour series. From royal intrigue to forgotten cemeteries, these guided walks reveal the surprising pasts of Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park.

 

Hidden Stories of Kensington Gardens

When: 25 July, 11am - 12:30pm

Book Now

Hidden Stories of Hyde Park

When: 8 August, 11:00am - 12:30pm

Book Now

Hyde Park Summer
Hyde Park
Kensington Gardens in summer

Bandstand Concerts

Join the Friends of Greenwich Park for their annual season of Bandstand Concerts this summer.

When: 6 July – 31 August

Where: Greenwich Park

Price: Free

Bandstand in Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park

Join the Friends of Regent's Park and Primrose Hill for their acclaimed summer music festival.

Bandstand performance listings 2025   Lakeside performance listings 2025

When: 21 June - 21 September (Bandstand Series) | 25 July - 2 August (Lakeside Series)

Where: The Regent's Park

Price: Free (Bandstand Series) | £10 - £40 (Lakeside Series)

Conductor and orchestra at a Lakeside Series performance
© The Friends of Regent's Park and Primrose Hill
The Regent's Park & Primrose Hill

Chef Takeovers at the Lido Garden

After a successful launch last year, Guest Chef Takeovers are returning – and tastier than ever. Each weekend from 28 June to 25 August (12pm - 8pm), the Lido Garden will come alive with a feast of flavours from around the world.

When: 28 June - 25 August, 12pm - 8pm

Where: Hyde Park

Price: Free to attend, booking not required. Food prices vary.

Chef Takeover at the Lido Garden

Blooms with a View Walking Tour

Take a closer look at the spectacular bedding plants and trees of St. James’s Park with this guided walking tour. Join Royal Parks Apprentice graduate and writer Fiona Kirkwood for a tour full of fascinating facts and personal stories. 

When: 24 July, 11:00am - 12.30pm

Where: St. James's Park

Price: £15

St. James's blooms with a view spring bedding

Macro Photography for Beginners with Max Mudie

Uncover hidden worlds through a macro lens in a photography workshop led by guest expert Max Mudie. 

When: 1 August, AM & PM sessions

Where: Bushy Park

Price: Free

Close up of white Hawthorn blossom with pink stamen, some flowers are open, some flowers are yet to open
The Royal Parks
Bushy Park

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