London’s summer festival scene is unparalleled – offering a diverse array of events to suit every taste. From world-renowned music performances and outdoor concerts to food festivals and cultural celebrations, London transforms into a vibrant hub of activity during the summer months. Here’s The Women’s Journal‘s guide to the best festivals in London this summer 2025.
BST Hyde Park 2025
BST Hyde Park is the crown jewel of London’s outdoor festivals, delivering unforgettable performances under the summer sky. This year, American Express Presents British Summertime in Hyde Park once again, featuring acts for all ages.
On Friday 27 June, Olivia Rodrigo will take to the Great Oak Stage for the biggest UK performance of her career, just days before her much-anticipated appearance at Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage. She sets the tone for an unforgettable opening weekend, followed by two back-to-back headline shows from Zach Bryan on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 June.
The momentum continues on Friday 4 July as Noah Kahan will play his biggest UK show so far while new-wave feminist and this summer’s It girl, Sabrina Carpenter, takes centre stage for two headline dates on 5 and 6 July.
On Friday 11 July, rock legend Neil Young returns with his band The Chrome Hearts, followed by the highly anticipated return of Stevie Wonder on Saturday 12 July, performing his Love, Light & Song UK show in what promises to be one of the standout events of the summer. BST Hyde Park 2025 concludes with Jeff Lynne’s ELO closing the run on 13 July.
For those looking to elevate their experience, BST Hyde Park also offers a range of premium hospitality options. From fast-track entry to the exclusive VIP HydeAway area and the Ultimate HydeAway Bar, guests can enjoy handcrafted frozen palomas, curated food stalls, and comfortable lounge spaces — all without the queues between sets.
Dates: 27 June – 13 July 2025
Kew The Music Festival
During the second week of July, suburban London’s Kew Gardens will host some of the world’s biggest artists. Grab your blankets and head to the Royal Botanic Gardens to experience the likes of UB40, Craig David and Alison Moyet, while enjoying your own picnic or picking up treats from the bars and street food stalls.
This year’s line-up features Craig David presents TS5 on 8 July, followed by 80s synth-pop legends The Human League on 9 July. On 10 July, UB40 featuring Ali Campbell will deliver their signature reggae sounds, and the festival heats up on 11 July with DJ Spoony’s Garage Classical featuring stars like So Solid Crew, Daniel Bedingfield and Heartless Crew.
On 12 July, vocal powerhouse Alison Moyet takes the stage with a fresh take on classic hits, and the 2025 series of Kew The Music concludes on 13 July with a vibrant, flamenco-infused set from the Gipsy Kings featuring Nicolas Reyes.
Guests are encouraged to bring their own picnic or enjoy food and drink on site. Alternatively, let the team handle the supper prep for you with pre-ordered hampers packed with charcuterie spreads, crispy dips, freshly baked bread and a whole host of other treats.
Dates: 8 July – 13 July 2025
Hampton Court Palace Festival
Set within the Tudor Base Court, Hampton Court Palace Festival offers nine nights of intimate, world-class performances in one of the UK’s most historic and atmospheric venues.
The series begins on Wednesday 11 June with indie favourites James, followed by Rag’n’Bone Man on 12 June, whose soulful vocals continue to captivate. Tom Jones brings decades of charisma on 13 June, and Bananarama head into their 40th year with a nostalgic set on 14 June.
On 15 June, enjoy a live edition of The Good, The Bad & The Rugby podcast in a unique concert format. 10 CC return on 17 June with their polished art-pop, before Chaka Khan delivers her sole UK concert of the summer on 18 June. Gary Barlow brings his chart-topping songwriting prowess on 19 June, and the festival closes with two stirring nights of orchestral rock from Elbow on 20-21 June.
Guests can bring their own picnic and drinks or choose from a variety of food and drink options available on site. For a more indulgent experience at Hampton Court Place Festival, pre-order gourmet hampers, sip champagne in fountain-side pergolas, or opt for VIP hospitality with three-course dining in Henry VIII’s State Apartments or exclusive access to the garden enclosure.
Dates: 11 June – 21 2025
Uptown Festival London
Celebrating iconic music across the decades, Uptown Festival London is one of the UK’s leading throwback festivals, perfect for families and nostalgic music lovers alike. Located on Blackheath Common, this one-day summer event delivers high energy, feel-good performances from some of the most legendary names in music.
Headlining this year is Boy George & Culture Club, promising a colourful and dynamic set packed with classic hits. With three stages – the Main Stage, Little Town, and Uptown Sessions – there’s something for everyone, from big name performances to local talent.
In addition to the live music, the festival features fairground rides, food stalls, and family-friendly activities, making it one of the most inclusive London music events for all ages. Looking for the best family-friendly festival in London? London’s Uptown Festival brings together great music, a strong sense of community, and feel-good vibes for an unforgettable day out for all ages on Blackheath.
Dates: 27 July 2025
Taste of London Food Festival
Taste of London returns to Regent’s Park this June for five flavour-packed days of culinary indulgence. The 2025 edition brings together 36 of the city’s top restaurants, 50 acclaimed chefs, and 150 artisan producers across eight delicious sessions – making it the definitive celebration of London’s food and drink scene.
Watch live cooking demos from Michelin-starred names like Kate Austen, John Chantarasak, and Pascal Aussignac, showcasing their signature dishes over open flames at the Taste Fire Pit. From lamb-stuffed Yorkshire puddings and pulled-beef rarebit to truffle guac crispy rice and Grana Padano truffle pasta, the tasting plates promise something unforgettable at every turn.
But Taste goes far beyond food – explore cocktail bars serving expertly mixed drinks, take part in hands-on masterclasses, and enjoy live DJ sets – including performances from Louis Bekk – all set against the backdrop of a buzzing, family-friendly festival atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just love a good bite, Taste of London is a must-visit for all the family this summer.
Dates: 18 – 22 June 2025
Somerset House Summer Series 2025
Celebrating its 25th anniversary as one of London’s most refined open-air concert venues, the Somerset House Summer Series returns for 2025 with eleven curated evenings in the stunning fountain courtyard.
The 2025 summer series opens on Thursday 10 July with the much-anticipated return of hip-hop favourites Rizzle Kicks, supported by genre-defying artist Peter Xan. Freya Ridings follows on 11 July with support from Nell Mescal, while Jacob Banks takes over on 12 July with his signature soulful sound. Parov Stelar brings his electro-swing flair on 13 July, and on 14 July, Akinola Davies Jr presents rituals: unionblack, featuring a live score from leading UK artists.
Joy Oladokun headlines 15 July with The Halfway Kid, followed by St. Vincent’s only London show on 16 July, supported by Gustaf. Indie favourites The Snuts take the stage on 17 July with The Guest List, and The Paper Kites perform on 18 July, joined by Nadia Reid and Benjamin Francis Leftwich.
On 19 July, rising R&B stars FLO headline with Natanya and Pxssy Palace, before Giggs & Family wrap up the series on 20 July with a UK rap showcase featuring P Money, Tiny Boost, and more. Each evening of the Somerset House Summer Series begins at 7:30pm in the historic courtyard, with street food specialists KERB curating this year’s dining experience.
Dates: 10 – 20 July 2025
KISSTORY On Blackheath 2025
The UK’s biggest old-skool anthems are heading to South East London with KISSTORY On Blackheath 2025. A full day of non-stop garage, hip hop, R&B and dance classics, this festival brings KISS FM’s iconic brand to the big stage.
Expect a lineup of KISSTORY favourites and live performances from the artists that defined the golden age of UK garage and 90s club culture. While the full lineup is still to be announced, past editions have featured the likes of Luck & Neat, Ms. Dynamite, Fatman Scoop, DJ Pied Piper, and So Solid Crew.
With incredible DJs, high-energy crowd vibes, and a party atmosphere that doesn’t let up, KISSTORY On Blackheath is a must for anyone who grew up on club classics and timeless anthems.
Dates: 26 July 2025
Wireless Festival 2025
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Wireless Festival returns to Finsbury Park from 11-13 July 2025 with a weekend packed full of hip-hop, R&B, and grime legends.
The music festival kicks off on Friday 11 July with Drake headlining, supported by R&B icons Summer Walker and PartyNextDoor. On 12 July, grime collective Boy Better Know brings an electrifying homegrown energy, while Drake returns with a completely different setlist for night two.
Sunday’s finale on 13 July sees Afro-fusion sensation Burna Boy and dancehall legend Vybz Kartel take the spotlight, rounding off the weekend with a genre-blending showcase of global urban music. Drake makes a rare third consecutive appearance, making Wireless 2025 a landmark year for fans.
Wireless continues to be London’s biggest urban music festival, offering electric energy, iconic performances, and some of the most in-demand artists in the world. Food vendors, merch stalls, and VIP areas elevate the experience for those looking to make the most of their summer weekend.
Dates: 11 July – 13 July 2025
South Facing Festival 2025
Held across multiple weekends in August, South Facing Festival returns to the open-air Crystal Palace Bowl with a genre-spanning lineup of indie, grime, hip-hop, dance, and orchestral performances.
The festival opens on Friday 7 August with post-rock titans Mogwai and Irish folk innovators Lankum, setting a dynamic tone. On Sunday 9 August, Skepta curates Big Smoke, a grime showcase featuring Central Cee, JME, Chip, Frisco, and more. The following day, Monday 10 August, Big Smoke continues with a genre-crossing set from Skepta, Maceo Plex, Ilario Alicante, and Jammer.
Thursday 14 August brings electronic pioneers Morcheeba and UNKLE, with a special guest DJ set from DJ Shadow, plus support from Chali 2na. Friday 15 August shifts into hip-hop with Busta Rhymes, Big Daddy Kane, Redman, and more.
On Saturday 16 August, Dutch duo Tinlicker (Live) headline a euphoric electronic night alongside Rival Consoles, James Lavelle, and Redfreya. Basement Jaxx take over Friday 22 and Saturday 23 August with back-to-back high-energy sets, before the South Facing Festival series ends on Sunday 24 August with Love Motion, starring disco icons Nile Rodgers & CHIC.
Dates: 7 August – 24 August 2025
All Points East Festival 2025
Returning to the heart of East London, All Points East Festival takes over Victoria Park once again for two weekends of live music, immersive experiences, and cutting-edge performances from 15 to 24 August 2025.
The festival kicks off on Friday 15 August with Cleo Sol, joined by reggae star Chronixx and enigmatic collective SAULT, offering a rare soulful evening. On 16 August, drum & bass legends Chase & Status headline a bass-heavy night featuring Overmono, Dimension, Nia Archives, Shy FX, and many more. Midweek energy returns on 22 August with Barry Can’t Swim, Orbital, Confidence Man, and Shygirl headline a dance-electronic showcase.
Saturday 23 August brings RAYE, accompanied by Tyla, Doechii, Jade, Jyoty, Nao, and Montell Fish in her only major London show this summer, while the grand finale on 24 August features indie-rock favourites The Maccabees, with special guests Bombay Bicycle Club, CMAT, Black Country, New Road, The Cribs, Dry Cleaning, and more.
Beyond the music, All Points East features a vibrant village of independent food vendors, craft beer bars, art installations, and chill-out zones. The festival also hosts its legendary Field Day after-hours sessions, extending the party into the night with DJ sets and immersive nightlife experiences under the stars. Whether you’re a die-hard drum and bass fan or looking things to do in East London this summer, All Points East offers a curated, culturally rich festival experience in one of London’s most beloved parks.
Dates: 15 August – 24 August 2025
Notting Hill Carnival 2025
Celebrating over five decades of Caribbean culture, Notting Hill Carnival returns across the August Bank Holiday weekend, filling Notting Hill’s streets with vibrant music, dance, and community spirit.
The festivities begin on Sunday 24 August with ‘family day’, centred around a joyful children’s parade. Expect colourful costumes, street performances, steel bands, and Caribbean food stalls – perfect for all ages to soak up the upbeat atmosphere.
Monday 25 August sees the grand take-off of the main parade, where costumed troupes and massive floats wind their way through the streets, accompanied by steel bands, sound systems, and pulsating Afro-Caribbean rhythms. From dawn till dusk, the area hums with carnival vibes and the intoxicating beats of soca, calypso, and reggae.
As Europe’s largest street festival, Notting Hill Carnival is a sensory feast of colours, culture, and community. Whether you join in the dancing or simply watch the spectacle, it’s an iconic London summer experience.
Dates: 24 August – 25 August 2025
