Heading to London this summer? Here are 5 epic events happening in August 2023 you won’t want to miss

The summer sun is finally out, but come rain or shine there is plenty to enjoy in London this August.

After July’s washout, we’re all so ready for the predicted sunshine and 30 degree heat next week, even if it does mean the Central Line feels hotter than a blast furnace.

So if you’re up for poetry, dancing, music or heading to the movies, here’s our pick of the top five best events happening in London this August – including family-friendly options for those who’ve run out of ideas on what to do in the long summer holidays with the kids.

Let’s take a look.

Notting Hill Carnival

It simply wouldn’t be August in London without Notting Hill Carnival.

The wonderful celebration of Caribbean culture and diversity started in the 1960s and is always hugely popular, with up to two million people joining in the festivities.

Bank Holiday Monday is usually the biggest day, while the Sunday is known as ‘family day’ so is a good time to go if you’re taking kids.

Dates: Saturday, August 26 – Bank Holiday Monday, August 28, 2023.

Location: Throughout the W10 postcode in west London – check the exact 3.5 mile route by downloading the official Notting Hill Carnival app.

Cost: Free for spectators, no ticket required.

Greenwich and Docklands International Festival

The Greenwich and Docklands International Festival brings together UK and international artists in a programme of outdoor theatre, performance, art, dance and circus across London.

This year’s theme is ‘Acts of Hope’, aimed at reflection, creativity and celebration. August events include a tightrope walker with live music, the family-friendly Greenwich Fair, and a regatta of 12 life-sized swans performing a poetic ballet on the surface of the Royal Victoria Dock.

Dates: Friday, August 25 – Sunday, September 10, 2023

Location: Various, check the GDIF website for details.

Cost: Free

Barbican Outdoor Cinema

The Barbican’s stunning Outdoor Cinema returns to the venue’s Sculpture Court.

There’s a wide range of movies, from Barbie to Martin Scorcese’s The Last Waltz, and you get a free cocktail (including a non-alcoholic option) with every ticket purchased.

Dates: Wednesday, August 23 – Sunday, September 3

Location: Barbican Centre, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS

Cost: £18 plus £1.50 booking fee (concessions available) – check the website for movie details.

Summer in the Courtyard

Somerset House’s famous Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court and its 55 fountains (on daily from 10am-7pm from Thursday, 17 August) is the venue for ‘open-air affordable gatherings’ this August.

Situated on the north side of Waterloo Bridge, upcoming events at Summer in the Courtyard include The Brighter Vibes R.A.P. Party – an afternoon of hip-hop and poetry with nine poets – plus drumming workshops, and an ‘intense and water-inspired dance’ by 22 women (followed by a chance for children and families to join in).

Dates: August 1 – 26, 2023.

Location: Somerset House, Strand, London WC2R 1LA

Cost: Most events are free – see Somerset House website for full programme.

The Hampton Court Palace Food Festival

The Hampton Court Food Festival returns for its 10th year over the bank holiday weekend, on the outskirts of the capital.

Expect a wide range of street food, cocktail mixing masterclasses, pop up bars and live music, plus more than 60 acres of gardens to explore and dedicated activities for kids.

Dates: Saturday, 26 August – Bank Holiday Monday, August 28, 2023.

Location: Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU.

Cost: Adults are £29, members go free. Concessions and VIP upgrades available.

MORE : Seven unusual places to visit in London for free

MORE : Tripadvisor announces best attractions for your next UK staycation

Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Share your views in the comments below