West London Summer Guide For First Time Tourists

London is one of the best cities in the world for tourists. As one of the largest cities in Europe, the sheer diversity, culture and history of London means that anyone’s tourist list would be chockablock. That’s why it’s always worth planning ahead for your trip, utilising every day of your stay at accommodation in Paddington London with a visit to the fabulous attractions and landmarks of the city.

But how do you pick and choose from the wealth of attractions available to you? With the summer coming up, there are more things to do in London than any other time of year, which is why this blog will focus on things to do in the west of the city. With many strategies for planning your stay, breaking up your trip into areas of London can be beneficial for travel efficiency and a more granular exploration of London. West London is especially easy to travel across for guests of hotels and restaurants in Paddington London, and there’s a lot to see over the months of May, June, July and August.

May

As spring bursts into bloom, May is a great time to visit London thanks to the temperate weather, May half term and incredible attractions open to visitors throughout the month. From flower showers to historic markets, May provides visitors with a chance to explore some of West London’s most prestigious and beautiful areas.

Hampton Court Palace Artisan Festival – 13th – 15th May

Located in the scenic and historic Hampton Court Palace Gardens, this exciting annual festival of fete games, craft and street food stalls has something for everyone. Enjoy the stunning gardens of Hampton Court whilst browsing a wealth of sellers, enjoy workshops on calligraphy, jewellery, and even horse and carriage rides in this modern-meets-historic family festival. 

RHS Chelsea Flower Show – 24th – 28th May

The Royal Hospital Chelsea was built more than 300 years ago when Charles II worked with architect Sir Christopher Wren to develop the beautiful grounds into an English war veteran hospital. It still stands today as a retirement home but its beautiful gardens are now one of the most popular walking spots in West London. Pair that with its annual flower show and you have a must-visit attraction in the heart of Kensington & Chelsea. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is a popular event that is televised across the world, this year taking the theme of Wild And Natural Spaces. This means many of the flower arrangements explore rewilding and authentic designs.

Men And Women’s FA Cup Final At Wembley Stadium – 14th & 15th May

This May sees an unmissable chance to enjoy the atmosphere of England’s most famous stadium. Guests at the Chilworth hotel spa near Paddington can easily reach the northwest London stadium via Paddington underground station, whilst the exciting conclusions to the Women and Men’s FA Cup Final is sure to draw many spectators.

June

As the weather warms up and the summer holidays are just across the horizon, June sees weekend excitement in the form of music festivals, annual festivals and more across the city. 

Queen’s Coronation Day – 3rd June

The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee will be held in early June and will see a range of events throughout London. One of the main attractions, however, will be the cannon firings and trooping of the colour in and around Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and Buckingham Palace. Any visitor with an interest in the symbolic power of the Royal Family will not want to miss this momentous day.

British Summer Time Music Festival

British Summer Time Music Festival starts in the last two weekends of June and runs for another two weeks in July. This festival is a huge Hyde Park attraction in the summer and sees many famous musicians take the sun-soaked stage. This year sees June headliners include the Rolling Stones, Elton John, The Eagles and Robert Plant take the stage. 

July

July sees the beginning of summer holidays and many tourists book rooms at the Chilworth Hotel London. Here are some of the great events you can expect from your stay in the city.

George III: The Mind Behind the Myth, Kew Palace

Visit the iconic Kew Palace and Gardens to enjoy this summertime exhibition exploring the life of the 18th century king who deplored slavery and oversaw the English victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. This exhibition will showcase artefacts and writings by the famous king.

CoExistence, Green Park and St James’s Park – Till 23rd July

The CoExistence exhibition is a migrating installation of elephants that was last seen in Chelsea. The CoExistence exhibition in two of London’s most overlooked royal parks will stop for a breather here till the 23rd of July. Free to all, this exhibition will explore ways in which humanity and wildlife can exist peacefully together.

Van Gogh Alive, Kensington Gardens

You only have till September to enjoy this stunning testament to the life of Van Gogh. This exhibition utilises all the senses in a 3000 image, kaleidoscopic exhibition exploring the works and inspirations of Vincent Van Gogh. With art-stations, interactive exhibits and much more to enjoy, this is the famous painter’s work like you’ve never seen it before.

August

August is one of the best times of year to visit London. Not only is the summer in full swing, but historic festivals, exciting cultural events and prime summer barbecue weather are the mainstay of every August weekend. 

Buckingham Palace Tour Summer Opening 

August will see multiple dates open up for palace tour bookings. Closed off for much of the year, the Buckingham Palace Tour is a great way to learn about the history of the Royal Family from the horse’s mouth – their London headquarters. 

Notting Hill Carnival

This celebration of Afro-Caribbean culture and multiculturalism in London takes the form of a weekend-long parade and dance festival in the heart of West London’s Notting Hill area. The beautiful festival is a major bank holiday weekend event, taking place on cusp of September and seeing off the summer holidays with a colourful bang.