17 things to do in London in July 2024 to soak up the best of summer

If you're looking for a distinctive breakfast experience on a tranquil street in Notting Hill, Los Mochis is the perfect choice. Los Mochis blends Mexican flavours with Japanese techniques, evident in every aspect, from the food and drinks to the décor and service.

On a sunny day, I treated myself and my family to breakfast at Los Mochis, and it turned out to be a memorable morning. We enjoyed our meal while basking in the sunlight. I ventured out of my comfort zone with a hot chocolate infused with chilli—quite the experience! For my main course, I opted for 'El Ingles,' a classic English breakfast that did not disappoint. My husband chose the mouthwatering 'Huevos Rancheros Bagel,' while my kids indulged in the Churros. Thankfully, the portion was generous, so we all got to taste them, and I can confirm they were delicious.

Los Mochis offers a wide range of breakfast options. You can choose from 'Light & Healthy' selections like granola, fresh fruit bowls, and acai bowls, or indulge in 'Sweet & Naughty' treats such as churros, pancakes, and waffles. Whether you’re in the mood for a healthy start or a decadent treat, Los Mochis has something for everyone.

Reviewed by Andrea Caamano, Website Editor

I know this might seem like an odd thing to admit, but before I went to Milk Beach Soho I had no idea what constituted as Australian cuisine - and I don’t think I could have found a better introduction to modern Australian dining than at Milk Beach Soho. The restaurant’s set up is a high-ceiling circular room in beachy tones - with a very cool and friendly atmosphere. Then there was the food. 

Where to begin? I absolutely loved the mushroom dumplings with burnt onion consommé and chilli oil, my only complaint is that I would have had six more! The unique prawn toast with sesame and gochujang sweet ‘n’ sour sauce was also a total treat, as was the Koji marinated chicken ‘Schnitty’. I can’t wait to go back!

Reviewed by Emmy Griffiths, TV & Film Editor

Ask anyone to picture a delicious afternoon tea and you will no doubt conjure up images of classic jam and clotted cream-topped scones served with English breakfast tea and finger sandwiches.

However, The Petersham in Covent Garden has put an Italian twist on the English classic and it couldn't make for more of an indulgent summer afternoon outing. The upscale Mediterranean restaurant, located in Floral Court, has launched La Merenda - its own afternoon tea offering which takes inspiration from the Boglione family’s Piedmontese heritage.

HELLO! was invited down for a taste of Turin and it was such a treat. The offering was brought out in stages, starting with a crisp glass of Ayala rosé champagne, before a choice of (countless) teas and the most delicious espresso-infused hot chocolate I have ever tasted, otherwise known as the Piedmont Bicerin.When it came to the food, The Petersham created a true spectacle - hand delivering our food on a tiered serving platter topped with a splendid bouquet of fresh flowers. A generous portion of sandwiches were on offer, ranging in innovative flavours from grilled zucchini and stracciatella to tuna and Sicilian avocado - not a hint of cheese and cucumber in sight!

I absolutely loved the pizzettes made from flaky pastry. The 'Classica' topped with tomato, oregano, burrata, and olives was my favourite - the flavours packed a punch while the pastry kept it light and moreish.The highlight of the afternoon tea was the sweet course. From a creamy pistachio tartlet to the refreshing Crostatina alla Frutta, the dish had it all and with six options to try, you are bound to find something you like.

The setting at The Petersham adds to the relaxed sense of luxury. I was able to dine al fresco under an umbrella on a hot day while sipping champagne and indulging in expertly crafted treats - divine! The service was impeccable and the Floral Court setting is a blissful secluded nook of the atmospheric Covent Garden where you can truly unwind.

To book, visit petershamnurseries.com

Reviewed by Katie Daly, Junior Lifestyle Writer

Having lunch somewhere fancy is up there on anyone's list, and they don't come more special and more fabulous than Beaverbrook's Hot Air Balloon Dining Experience. Remarkably close to London, you can take the train to the stunning Surrey hotel, which was the very first to offer this service four years ago and we are so delighted it's back for its fourth year. 

Every year the hotel changes the designs of the balloons and this year the theme is imaginatively called 'A Sky Full Of Stripes'. The ruby red and bubblegum pink colourway is the stuff dreams are made of and will totally elevate your Instagram feed for sure!

The six balloons are placed in front of the picturesque historic house and can fit four diners in their spacious baskets. It really is the finest alfresco experience you can think of.

The three course meal which is part of the service is truly a delight - the first course is a beautiful sashimi platter that is SO aesthetically pleasing. Following on is an exceptional Yakiniku barbeque (vegetarian options and pescatarian options are also available if meat isn't your bag) and dessert is the best looking, and most exquisitely delicious Baked Alaska, with coordinating ice cream stripes visible with the first bite.

It's a wonderful treat to mark a special occasion, or even a standout meal for no particular reason, which you will remember forever. Summer dining never looked so good.

Prices start at £85 per person. To book, call +44 (0)1372 571 300 or visit  www.beaverbrook.co.uk now.

Reviewed by Laura Sutcliffe, Fashion and Beauty News Editor

Dining at a hotel restaurant is never a guaranteed win. Sometimes they lack ambiance, often the sky-high prices are not worth the money, or the quality of the food just isn't there. All of this cannot be said though for The Langham's newest offering, Mimosa – the Mediterranean-inspired space that recently opened in the five-star, central London hotel.

The aim is to transport diners to the French Riviera, to capture the spirit of the Côte d'Azur, and to let patrons experience a real joie de vivre. From the moment my friend and I stepped in, Mimosa did exactly this. From the pink and terracotta colour scheme, to the très chic table settings featuring ocean-inspired crockery, it all felt very south of France sublime.

The whole menu is designed to share and I would recommend starting with the restaurant's signature opener, the Mimosa Eggs. Devilled eggs aren't something I'd usually get excited about, but the black truffle ones were a decadent way to start what soon became a very indulgent meal. Pan con tomate, one of my all-time favorite traditional Catalan dishes, came next, but the extravagant Mimosa version was served with a platter of smokey cecina, a nice extra touch. 

For mains, we shared the yellowfin tuna steak. I was expecting one large piece, but it was presented in a more refined way of meaty slices of tuna drizzled with crushed peppercorns and pepper sauce. Another stand-out and full-of-flavour dish was the lobster tagliolini pasta, baked in a tomato and tarragon sauce. 

We, by no means, needed dessert, but after much persuasion we were encouraged to try the L'Ananas dish, which was a real masterpiece in itself and I'm so glad we did. Served in a hollowed-out pineapple and resting on a bed of ice, it's a creamy and exotic version of crème brûlée. It was the last of the theatrically presented dishes that made the whole dining experience a truly luxurious treat.

Reviewed by Ainhoa Barcelona, Content Managing Editor 

With the weather warming up, there's no better way to spend a summer evening than sipping a delicious cocktail while watching the sun go down over the London skyline – and Savage Garden is the perfect place for it. 

Located in the heart of the city at the top of the DoubleTree by Hilton, the rooftop terrace overlooks Tower Bridge and the Tower of London and it's safe to say the panoramic views of the city are unmatched. 

But it's not just the outdoor setting that's impressive, the main bar features decadent and stylish decor including glass ceiling panels and gold light fixtures, giving the place a glamorous feel. 

I visited Savage Garden on the evening of its 6th birthday bash – and this place certainly knows how to throw a good party. As the DJ took centre stage in front of the bar, dancers clad in colourful costumes and feather headdresses twirled their way around the room. 

After being seated on the balcony, I started my evening perusing the impressive cocktail menu. While I opted for a delicious rosé elderflower spritz, I could have spent the entire evening sampling their unique mix of drinks. They've even partnered with global Ocean conservation charity, Ocean Conservation Trust, for one of their gin-based creations, where £1 of every drink sold is donated to the cause. 

As for the snacks, Savage Garden has a wide range of mouth-watering small and large plates. We started off with the duck bao buns, which were super succulent, and the bang cauliflower wings covered in gunpowder spices and accompanied by a cool coconut raita. 

We then moved on to a portion of Italian cheesy arancini with vegan Nduja mayo – I could have eaten about ten of these. The Bite Me Beef sliders with smoked cheddar and homemade bacon jam were also a highlight of the meal. 

Whether you're there to party or simply soak up London's skyline, Savage Garden is a must-visit.

Reviewed by Nicky Morris, Senior TV & Film writer

Summer has officially arrived and with it comes long afternoons and alfresco dining in The OWO's magnificent courtyard, home to French restaurant Café Laperouse and its newly launched terrace space. 

With the menu boasting French classics including Gratinée des Halles onion soup, Bourgogne escargots and their Laperouse beef tartare with matchstick fries, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Opting for a light starter I thoroughly enjoyed the Quinoa salad with pomegranate, avocado and dukkah, this refreshing combination is perfect for sharing alongside other dishes. Another stand-out which I had my heart set on before even arriving was the Black truffle rigatoni, creamy pasta with lashings of truffle shavings. Although it might be on the pricier side, it's completely worth it!

For dessert we indulged in two to share as they all sounded delicious. We tried Lapérouse's rich chocolate soufflé, which has been on the menu since 1776! Alongside the Angel’s Profiteroles, a choux pastry sliced in two, with a filling of vanilla ice cream and then covered with chocolate sauce.

From decadent desserts to tropical shell-encrusted decor the whole experience exudes elegance and glamour - perfect for a date night or get together with friends to celebrate a special occasion.

Reviewed by Lauren Connolly, Senior Digital Designer

For an elevated dining experience with stunning views of London’s skyline, the newly re-opened Radio Rooftop at the ME London hotel is a must-visit. Blending Asian-inspired cuisine with expertly crafted cocktails, it offers a sophisticated yet playful ambiance.

On a warm evening, I treated my partner to dinner at the reimagined Radio Rooftop. The Asian-inspired food menu, curated by Executive Chef Federico Crisafulli, is designed for sharing. My personal favorites were the Spicy Tuna Maki Roll, Japanese Wagyu A5 Beef Tataki, and Black Cod in Citrus Miso. Dessert was a treat with Matchamisu and Mochi.

We ended the night with cocktails during a beautiful sunset. The standout cocktail menu featured my favorites, the Tokyo Rose and Bee’s Knees, showcasing the creativity of the mixologists.

Perfect for date night or after-work drinks, especially in the summer, Radio Rooftop lets you enjoy views and skyline sunsets while sipping cocktails.

Reviewed by Andrea Alvarado, Senior Digital Marketing Executive

Belgravia is one of the most beautiful parts of London, and one of the area's best-loved hotels, The Hari, has teamed up with sublime Champagne house, Ruinart, to launch a stunning Summer Terrace.

Hari’s Ruinart Champagne Summer Terrace looks like a romantic fairy garden, adorned with the most fabulous pink floral display; from pretty blush orchids, mixed with rose petals to blooming lilies. Their exclusive champagne cocktails really do have that certain Je ne sais quoi, thanks to Ruinart’s parallel with the French art de vivre. The Pomegranate Fizz featuring Malfy gin, pomegranate juice, syrup and a squeeze of lemon topped with Ruinart Rosé is not to missed, and my personal favourite, the Pomello Spritz, artfully combines R de Ruinart Brut, pomello, St Germain Elderflower liqueur and soda water. Bottoms up!

Alongside the top-notch drinks menu, is sumptuous food by il Pampero’s Italian kitchen. The sharing plates include traditional truffle arancini, heritage tomato bruschetta topped with creamy stracciatella and bite-sized smoked salmon blinis, accompanied with soured cream and chives. If you're anything like me, and love a dessert (or two) the chocolate gelato topped with a cookie and white chocolate glaze is mouth-wateringly good.

Everyone knows that the great British summer can be temperamental. So, the terrace is fully equipped for all weathers - it features a retractable glass roof, as well as outdoor heaters in case it gets chilly. They've got you covered, come rain or shine.

Open until mid-September, catch it while you can! 

Reviewed by Laura Sutcliffe, Fashion and Beauty News Editor

If there's one thing about me, it's that I love a brunch. So when I discovered London's new venue, BAM Karaoke Box, offering just that, I simply had to go and test it out. 

Situated in Victoria, the swanky venue offers themed brunches every Saturday, from noughties to hip hop, and Britney to Bollywood. Alongside your meal, you get 90 minutes of bottomless prosecco, and let me tell you, the staff are highly attentive when it comes to refills.

After an entertaining brunch session, you'll be whisked away into your private karaoke room for two more hours of amusement. So, grab your best friends, get your glam on, and book up this super fun activity.

Reviewed by Arianna Chatzidakis, Creative Content Director

Pan Pacific London has partnered with the latest star of the rosé scene - Roseblood -  in a bid to transport guests away from the hustle and bustle of London. Their Instagramable outside terrace is the perfect sunshine spot with beautiful blooms and comfortable seating space - it even comes complete with a flatscreen TV to catch this year’s biggest sporting events.

The venue has carefully curated a menu which is ideal for summer grazing, with a selection of cheeses, calamari, and fish finger bao all available. I ordered their charcuterie platter - which was the perfect accomplishment to my ice-cold glass of rose wine - I found it especially impressive that it had been locally sourced from nearby Spitalfield market. Drink options also included rosé cocktails, mocktails or if you wanted to go all out with treating yourself - champagne. 

Even though the venue is situated next to London’s buzzy Liverpool Street station, the atmosphere at this terrace was incredibly relaxing and the staff did a great job of making everyone feel especially welcome. It is the perfect spot to catch up with friends and family and indulge in the ultimate winning combo of fine wine and cheese.

Reviewed by Katy Huke, SEO Manager 

London is not short of afternoon teas. From classic experiences in ritzy hotels to fun themed teas in quirky cafes, you can enjoy the classic British pastime in almost every form in the captital. 

Injecting a new sense of life into the city's sweet treat scene, however, is Cazcabel and NYX Hotel in Holborn, which has recently launched it's Bottomless Afternoon TeaQuila just in time for summer. 

Served in the Glasshouse on the trendy hotel's rooftop overlooking London's skyline, we sipped on Cazcabel Margaritas, Coco Coladas and punchy Palomas. 

Expect a bold savoury tier of mini tacos and burritos, beer battered prawns, and chimichurri chicken skewers to start in an interesting twist on the classic sandwich tier. 

Finish with fried churros with caramel sauce, tequila and lime jelly,  a zesty lime, raspberry and chilli posset and seasonal fruit tart, as well as deliciously indulgent round of scones and jam. 

It's the perfect summer take on this traditional British treat. Book for £35 per person, and add £15 for bottomless cocktials or mocktails. 

Reviewed by Georgia Brown, Senior Lifestyle & Fashion Writer

I was lucky to be among the guests to catch an after-hours preview of the Naomi: In Fashion exhibition which is taking place at the V&A in South Kensington until April 2025. 

The night offered an incredible insight into Naomi's career at the beautiful gallery, where I enjoyed food by V&A's luxury caterer Alison Price & Co.For those who want to admire Naomi Campbell's career, this is the place to visit. 

This groundbreaking display, the first of its kind, offers an unparalleled look into the extraordinary journey of an iconic fashion model who has left an indelible mark on the industry.Walking through the curated spaces, I enjoyed seeing the stunning photographs and designs from some of the world's most renowned designers and photographers. 

Each piece showcased not just Naomi's incredible versatility and beauty but also the creative synergy between her and the artists she has collaborated with over the years.The exhibition showcased some of her most famous pieces including the 1989 Thierry Mugler car-inspired corset, the pink Valentino number worn at the 2019 Met Gala and that famous pair of high Vivienne Westwood platform shoes worn during her 1993 catwalk fall.

For anyone interested in fashion and culture, this exhibition is a must-see.

Reviewed by Sharnaz Shahid, Deputy Online Editor

I am a regular haunt in SoHo and have enjoyed drinks with friends in many of its iconic bars from the Admiral Duncan to Comptons, however, even a seasoned SoHo-lover like me found plenty of new things when I went on the London Cocktail Tours.

Run by Susan L. Schwartz, who has a decade worth of experience in the industry we were treated to bars I'd never thought of going in before from the Pink Chihuahua, who once boasted the inventor of the expresso martini amongst its staff, this will certainly be on the list of places I go back to with friends.

There's also The Thin White Duke, a homage to David Bowie, which comes complete with a record studio in its basement.

I've done several tours around London, but this was one of the most fascinating and most well put together ones I've been on and I highly recommend you see (and taste) for yourself!

Reviewed by: Matthew Moore, Online News Writer

Throughout July, London's breathtaking Hyde Park becomes home to a legendary summer festival; BST Hyde Park.

The annual event first kicked off in 2013 with The Rolling Stones reliving their legendary 1969 gig, plus Bon Jovi, Lionel Richie and many more packing out the park for memorable summer nights.

Got Glastonbury blues or gutted you missed out on tickets? Several headliners, including Shania Twain, SZA, and Kylie Minogue are set to perform gigs at the epic Hyde Park venue this month.

To explore all acts and buy tickets, visit www.bst-hydepark.com/tickets

If you fancy going VIP at BST Hyde Park, check out Accor’s free to join Loyalty Program called ALL Accor Live Limitless. For details on ALL Limitless Experiences, visit limitlessexperiences.accor.com and get up to 10% off Accor hotel stays.

"I didn't have fun at karaoke," said no one, ever. Lucky Voice is always a guaranteed fun night out regardless of whether you have the X Factor or not.

We ventured to Lucky Voice Liverpool Street for a night of birthday celebrations for a friend, and collectively agreed to make karaoke night a new birthday tradition. We sang musical hits, rapped to Eminem, belted like Whitney Houston and spent the evening reliving memories from Taylor Swift's Eras tour. 

Most impressive are the booth's high-tech screens that allow you to become your booth's very own DJ, with adjustable LED lighting, a spinning disco ball, an ever growing catalogue of an impressive 11,000 songs (which include 11 languages), and of course the famous Lucky Voice "thirsty" button for those all-important food and drink refills. The cocktails continued to flow and the glitterball added some much-needed disco fever for our 80s ballads. 

Lucky Voice’s newest addition in Waterloo is the capital’s glittering hotspot for karaoke fans - not one to be missed if you're passing through Zone 1.

Reviewed by Georgia Brown, Senior Lifestyle & Fashion Writer

Albert Schloss is an institution. The alpine bier hall, cook haus and stage show concept has proved so popular up North that a London branch was the next logical step. I was therefore keen to check out its fourth nationwide venue in Soho, promising fabulous live entertainment, free-flowing drinks and hearty food. If the launch night is anything to go by, it definitely lived up to expectations.

A unique concept, Albert Schloss promises round-the-clock revelry and is open from 9am to 3am (with an early finish time on Sundays), meaning it's a one-stop shop for all your food, drink and entertainment needs in the heart of the West End. Breakfast? Sorted. Sunday roast and a cheeky pint? It comes with DJs. Post-dinner drinks that turn into a party? Absolutely.

Set over two floors and featuring five bars, a stage for live performances (including burlesque dancing, cabaret, juggling and more) and an on-site bakery selling Bavarian treats, there's something for every mood and occasion. I had a friendly game of shuffleboard one minute before watching a fabulous cabaret show the next. As the lights dimmed, the crowd started signing and began dancing on the beer hall tables, I thought this was exactly what the capital needed (especially for us weary millennials) – day-to-night fun, all under one roof.

The launch party was attended by food gurus including Jay Rayner and Simon Rimmer, so I had high hopes for the menu, too. Sampling delightful canapes including sticky pork belly and mustard infused sausage rolls, it certainly appeared to be great quality for the price point. The wider menu includes a range of Schnitzels, wursts, sandwiches and even fondues, all with a special Schloss twist.  

Albert’s Schloss London is located at 20-24 Shaftesbury Ave. For more information, check out albertsschloss.com.

Reviewed by Kate Thomas, Lifestyle Managing Editor