London holidays

Best time to go to London

The best time to visit London depends on what you're hoping to do. Summer (June to August) is the warmest and liveliest time of year, with average temperatures around 18–24°C. It's perfect for outdoor festivals, picnics in Hyde Park, and evening strolls along the South Bank. Spring (March to May) brings blooming flowers and milder weather, making it a lovely time for sightseeing before the high season. Autumn (September to November) offers crisp air, colourful parks, and fewer crowds – ideal for exploring museums and cosy cafés. Winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures between 2–8°C, but the city feels magical during the festive season, with Christmas lights, markets, and seasonal shows filling the calendar.

No matter when you go, London always has something going on – from theatre and exhibitions to food festivals and historic tours.

How to get to London

Getting to London is easy whether you're coming from Ireland or elsewhere in the UK. Flights from Dublin, Cork, Shannon, and Belfast land at Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton or London City Airport – all with good transport links to the city centre. Flight time from Ireland is just over an hour.

If you’re travelling from within Britain, direct trains from cities like Edinburgh, Manchester, and Cardiff arrive at major stations including King’s Cross, Euston and Paddington. National Express and Megabus offer budget coach services into Victoria Coach Station from all over the UK.

Once you arrive, you'll find excellent onward connections via the Tube, rail and bus, making it easy to get wherever you're staying.

Getting around London

London’s public transport system is one of the most comprehensive in the world. The Underground (Tube), buses, Docklands Light Railway (DLR), and local trains make getting around fast and efficient. An Oyster card or contactless payment is the cheapest way to travel, and fares cap daily so you won’t overspend.

For a more scenic experience, try the river buses along the Thames or hop on a red double-decker. Santander Cycles (known as ‘Boris bikes’) are handy for short trips and there are now plenty of electric scooter rental options available via apps.

Whether you prefer to walk, cycle, cruise or ride the Tube, getting around London is a breeze – and half the fun of being in this iconic city.

Things to do in London

London offers the usual famous sites such as the Tower of London, but why not sample a mix of classic and hidden gems:

• Explore local markets: Wander through Borough Market or Columbia Road Flower Market for authentic experiences.

• Discover neighbourhood pubs: Sample traditional ales in cosy pubs like The Mayflower in Rotherhithe.

• Attend cultural events: Catch a show at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre or enjoy live music at venues like Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club.

• Explore hidden parks: Find tranquillity in lesser-known green spaces like Hampstead Heath or Epping Forest.

• Visit historic landmarks off the beaten track: Explore lesser-visited sites such as Eltham Palace or the Dennis Severs' House for unique insights into London's history.

Activities for families in London

• London Zoo adventure: Spend a day at the London Zoo, marvelling at diverse wildlife and engaging in educational activities.

• Interactive museums: Visit family-friendly museums like the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum, offering interactive exhibits for all ages.

• Thames river cruise: Embark on a Thames river cruise, providing panoramic views of iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London and Big Ben.

Free things to do in London

• Covent Garden: Wander through Covent Garden's bustling streets, enjoying lively performances and browsing unique shops.

• Historic landmarks: Explore iconic sites like the British Museum and the Tate Modern, offering free entry to their vast collections.

• Royal parks: Unwind in London's green spaces like Hyde Park and Regent's Park, which are ideal for strolls and picnics.

Nature & Outdoors in London

• Royal Parks: Explore London's lush Royal Parks like Hyde Park and Greenwich Park, offering serene green spaces for relaxation and recreation.

• Canal Walks: Stroll along the picturesque Regent's Canal or the tranquil Grand Union Canal, enjoying scenic views and charming canal-side cafes.

• Chelsea Flower Show: Experience the world-renowned Chelsea Flower Show, a vibrant celebration of horticulture and garden design held annually in May.

Exploring London's culinary scene is like taking a gastronomic tour around the world, but there are some British classics and local experiences you shouldn't miss.

Local dishes in London

Some typical dishes: Start with a traditional Full English Breakfast, complete with eggs, sausages, bacon, beans, mushrooms, and toast. For lunch or dinner, try Fish and Chips, available at spots like Poppie's, known for its authentic taste. Another must-try is the classic Sunday Roast with all the trimmings, served in many pubs and restaurants like The Jolly Butchers in Stoke Newington.

Street food: London's street food scene is vibrant and diverse. Borough Market and Camden Market are prime spots for indulging in a variety of street food, from gourmet burgers at Honest Burgers to fresh, hand-made pasta at Padella in Borough Market.

Typical Drinks: No visit to London is complete without sampling some traditional British ales at a historic pub like The Mayflower in Rotherhithe, or sipping on a cup of English tea at The Ritz's famous afternoon tea service. For something stronger, a gin and tonic from one of London's numerous gin bars, such as The Distillery on Portobello Road, is a must-try.

Food markets: Borough Market is one of the largest and oldest food markets in London, offering a range of British and international produce. Another notable mention is the vibrant Brick Lane Market, where you can find a plethora of ethnic foods, vintage clothes, and handmade crafts.

From traditional British fare to international cuisines and street food, London's food and drink scene promises an exciting adventure for your taste buds.