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London looks brilliant in the sunshine. People get friendlier. Food tastes better. Midday pints feel somehow valid. With that in mind, I am happy to report that the capital is due a very sunny spell at the start of next month, so if you want to make the most of it why not get planning now?
Disclaimer: we have some rainy, grey days to get through first. A week's worth in fact. But then, after that, temperatures are expected to reach the high-teens and then breach the all-important 30 degree mark in the first week of July. So without further ado here's some inspiration for what you might want to get up once things get sunny.
First up, don't sleep on London's urban beaches. Planning a picnic? Here’s some great food and drink you can get delivered to the park. Hankering to gaze at some purple flowers? Here are the nicest lavender fields in and around the capital.
We've also handily just updated our list of London's best lidos and outdoor swimming spots. Or if you're more interested in staying indoors, here are our favourite pools in the city.
Like the water but not the pool? Why not go for a nice splash-splash in one of London's big fountains?
You may also find yourself desperately seeking out refreshment. Refreshment consumed outside. Perhaps you'll be into our list of big London beer gardens? Or maybe our list of even bigger London beer gardens? Want something a bit posher? Why not see if any of these rooftop bars have a free table? There's also drinking terraces, eating terraces and rooftop restaurants.
Then there’s the parks themselves. This is our definitive list of ‘the best’ parks. Nice. Here are some secret gardens, if you’re into that sort of thing. Then, our top picnic spots in the capital, all conveniently located next to some great food and drink. If you’re bringing your own tinnies, please do not overlook these.
Maybe, just maybe, you’ll want to use Wednesday's clement conditions to just gaze at London for a bit. To climb to the top of a hill and just consider your place within the metropolis and the universe. If that kind of thing is your bag, then we have a great list of places with London’s best views. Or perhaps you just want to take a decent walk.
Whatever you get up to, have a great time in the sun but stay safe! To paraphrase Eric B and Rakim: heat exhaustion and sunburn ain't no joke.
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