August Bank Holiday Weekend in London Guide
Make the Most of the August Bank Holiday Weekend in London
August Bank Holiday weekend in London is your final chance to squeeze the most out of summer before the countdown to Christmas begins. The city comes alive for this long weekend, with world-famous festivals, open-air shows, riverside fun and plenty of hidden gems. Plan a spontaneous August bank holiday weekend away and join us at Imperial London Hotels as your central base. With six comfortable, well-connected hotels in Bloomsbury, you’re perfectly placed to enjoy every moment without the hassle.
When Is the August Bank Holiday Weekend?
The August 2025 bank holiday weekend runs from Saturday, the 23rd to Monday, the 25th of August.
Top Things to Do Over the August Bank Holiday Weekend
From huge street festivals to quiet corners that only locals know, London has endless ways to fill your August bank holiday weekend. Here are a few ideas to help you plan:
Performers in feathered costumes at the vibrant summer Notting Hill Carnival
The UK’s biggest street party and Europe’s largest carnival brings two days of parades, live music, food stalls and colourful costumes. If you’ve never been, you’re missing out.
Pro Tip: Go early to grab a good spot on the parade route and don’t forget cash for street food!
Regent’s Park Open-Air Theatre
One of London’s best summer traditions is Open-Air cinemas and theatres. Grab a blanket, pack some snacks (to go with your drinks) and enjoy a classic musical or enormous crocodile musical with your little ones.
Pro Tip: Bring a light jacket. London evenings can get chilly even in August.
BBC Proms in the Park
Bring your picnic to Hyde Park and catch the last of the Proms concerts, complete with live orchestras, guest stars and fireworks to end the summer in full swing.
Pro Tip: Pack a fold-up chair or picnic blanket, you’ll thank yourself when the fireworks start!
River Thames Festival
Celebrate London’s iconic river with boat parades, food pop-ups, art installations and family-friendly performances along the Southbank.
Pro Tip: Check the festival map in advance and plan your food stops, queues can get long for the best bites.
Visitors outside the British Museum on a sunny bank holiday
British Museum Lates
See priceless treasures with fewer elbows to dodge. These Friday Lates run all summer, entry’s free and last call is 7pm. Even better, it’s right on your doorstep when you stay with Imperial London Hotels.
Pro Tip: Visit must-see galleries first, the Rosetta Stone is still a crowd magnet, even late!
Bloomsbury Farmer Market
Stay local and snack your way round food stalls. Think hot street food and enough sweet treats to ruin any lunch plans. Pop by Russell Square, grab a bite (or five) and call it your London picnic.
Pro Tip: Stop by at Poppadom Indian Restaurant and try their homemade desserts.
Scenic view of Regent’s Canal with boats on an August afternoon
Regent’s Canal Stroll from King’s Cross
Grab an iced coffee, put on your sunnies and follow Regent’s Canal for one of London’s simplest summer pleasures. On the way you will see colourful houseboats.
Stop at hidden waterside cafés for an ice cream or cold drink, and take a moment for people watching. We recommend Cafe Laville, it’s an Italian restaurant overlooking the canal, with very calm vibes.
Whatever you choose, London’s energy over the bank holiday weekend in August makes it easy to fill your days with memories whether you’re travelling solo, with friends or with family.
Where to Stay for the August Bank Holiday Weekend
When you’ve ticked off the festivals, soaked up the city sights and need a good night’s sleep, your cosy room will be waiting at Imperial London Hotels. All six of our central London hotels are within walking distance of Russell Square Tube, with easy connections to Euston, King’s Cross and the West End.
Ideal for groups, families and budget travellers who want great value and easy Tube links. Stay moments from Russell Square station or just explore London on foot. Attractions like Oxford Street, Covent Garden, Leicester Square and much more are just a walking distance.
City Sleeper at Royal National
Still part of the Royal National Hotel, City Sleeper offers a little extra privacy and more comfort. Ideal for couples, small families or solo business travellers who like an extra comfortable but affordable base.
A peaceful, leafy retreat in the heart of Bloomsbury. Many rooms overlook our private gardens, and a generous free breakfast sets you up for a full day of exploring London. Closer to attractions like West End, Trafalgar Square and much more by foot. If you want London tube experience, the closet stations are Holborn and Covent Garden.
A dependable city base that feels like a classic London stay. Friendly staff, comfortable rooms and Russell Square just outside make it easy to come and go as you please. There are many cute cafes and London attractions just around the corner to make you feel more at home in London.
If you love a touch of old-school charm, Tavistock’s Art Deco design and views of Tavistock Square make it a cosy place to reset for your long weekend. Ideal for a laid-back stay, slow mornings and lots of hearty English breakfast.
Morton Hotel
A boutique Hotel in Bloomsbury. Right outside Russell Square Gardens, this hotel is inspired by the area’s literary past, feels full of character and calm. If you are looking for a more elevated and intimate stay while still being in the city, Morton Hotel is the right choice for you. Stop by The Library Bar for a quiet drink before you turn in for the night.
Woman exploring art-lined staircase in the London boutique Morton Hotel
Book your stay with Imperial London Hotels today and discover just how easy a city break can be. Hassle free London break at affordable prices awaits you.
