We’ve made it, guys! We will have daylight until at least 7 o’clock until autumn comes back around, and now is the time to celebrate and make the most of it.

Whether you are a local looking for fresh weekend inspiration or a visitor planning the ultimate seasonal getaway, finding the best things to do in London in spring is the key to unlocking the city’s vibrant energy.
But spring in London isn't just about the floral displays; it’s about the first pint in a sunny beer garden, the return of major sporting events like the London Marathon and finding those hidden secret gardens that offer a quiet escape from the bustle.
Ready to make the most of the longer days and milder weather? From West End experiences to East End mystery picnics, here is your curated list of the best activities, events, and hidden gems to explore in London this spring.
And just so you know - we’re not paid by anybody to include these on our list. They’re just places we’ve been to or experiences we’ve loved that we want to recommend to you, so you can find the best things to do in London.
The Best Things to Do in London in Spring
1 - Race Across the World: The Experience
Ever wondered if you have what it takes to win the hit TV show?
One of the most unique group activities in London this spring, Race Across The World: The Experience is the official live experience of the award-winning hit TV show, brought to life in a high stakes adventure across the City of London and The West End.
Budget, strategise and work together (or against a rival team!) to race across the UK capital in either location, and enjoy navigating iconic landmarks and hidden gems to reach checkpoints where physical puzzles and memorable surprises await…
Important Info: You must be 18+ to purchase tickets. The experience is designed to be accessible and inclusive. See FAQs for details.
2 - Go on a Treasure Hunt to Discover Something New
If you ask us, the best way to enjoy the crisp spring air is by solving riddles on an interactive London treasure hunt.
These self-guided trails lead you away from the tourist traps and into hidden courtyards and secret alleys, and believe us when we say you’ll discover something totally unexpected.
3 - Hunt Down The Tastiest Spots in the East End on a Mystery Picnic
Combine a self-guided walking tour with some delicious, gourmet rewards!
This mystery picnic in the East End tasks you with solving puzzles to find your next food pickup. By the end of the trail, you’ll have a basket full of artisanal treats to enjoy in a gorgeous spot. In other words, the perfect way to celebrate the start of picnic season in April or May!
Fun and Floral Things to Do in London This Spring
4 - Go to The Hampton Court Palace Tulip Festival
For the ultimate spring photo op in London this spring, head to the 2026 Tulip Festival.
With over 110,000 bulbs blooming against the backdrop of Henry VIII’s historic palace, there’s a very good argument that this is the most spectacular floral display in the UK. Don't miss the "floating" tulip planters in the palace fountains.
NB: The Tulip Festival Begins on 3 April 2026
5 - Go on a Self-Guided Walking Tour of Kensington
“Wisteria Hysteria” is about to hit London and if you’re keen for that, there’s only one place to go: Kensington.
This self-guided tour takes you through Kensington’s Mysterious Mews; you’ll follow riddles and clues to secret spots where you can admire pastel-coloured houses and climbing flowers without the crowds of a guided group, all at your own pace. Bonus points if you make the most of the pub and café stops along the way!
6 - See The Early Blooms at Queen Mary’s Rose Garden
If it’s good enough for the “meet cute” in 101 Dalmatians, it’s good enough for us.
Widely considered one of the most romantic places to visit in London during the spring months, Queen Mary’s Rose Garden in the heart of Regent’s Park is a masterclass in horticulture (which basically means it’s a floral paradise).
While the 12,000 roses (yes, there really are that many!) peak a bit later, the early spring blooms and pristine landscaping are well-worth seeing this time of the year.
7 - Have a Picnic at Jubilee Gardens
Nestled between the London Eye and the Thames, Jubilee Gardens is a lush green space right in the thick of the Southbank hustle and bustle.
It’s also an ideal spot for a riverside picnic as the weather warms up, and it even has some of the best views of the Westminster skyline framed by fresh spring greenery.
8 - Take a Stroll Down Cherry Walk or Bluebell Gardens at Kew Gardens
No surprises here, of course we had to include Kew.
To be honest, Kew Gardens is perfect any time of the year, but no spring itinerary is complete without a trip to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
In early April, the world-famous "Cherry Walk" transforms into a tunnel of pink petals, so make sure you get over there quickly! If you miss the short but sweet cherry season, don’t despair. The native bluebell woods are just as gorgeous and, in my opinion at least, it showcases the very best of British springtime.
9 - Take a Wander Around Dean’s Yard
Hidden in the shadows of Westminster Abbey, Dean's Yard is a peaceful green square that many tourists (and even locals) miss.
It’s a fantastic spot for a quiet spring walk and a rare moment of serenity amid the Abbey’s gothic towers and the surrounding historic school buildings.
Photo: ©Matt Brown
10 - Check Out South London’s Secret Garden
True spring lovers don’t gatekeep so that’s why we’re sharing this one with you.
One of our favourite spots in London can be found just on the edge in Streatham, and it’s as close to a secret garden as you’ll get in a city this size.
The Rookery has terraced lawns and white-themed flower beds that look absolutely stunning in the spring sun. And while the royal parks are lovely (and more famous), this one’s just phenomenal.
Fun Activities to Do in London this Spring
11 - Grab a Bite to Eat at Hawley Wharf
If you ask us, spring is the best time to explore Camden’s newest waterfront destination, Hawley Wharf.
If you’ve never visited before, this is where to go to find independent street food traders and rooftop dining with views over the canal. Ideal if you want the perfect place to grab a bite and soak up the sun after a morning spent browsing the Camden markets.
12 - Play Some Games at an Arcade Bar
Listen, this is London, after all. If those classic April showers hit, head indoors to one of London’s best arcade bars.
From retro Pac-Man to modern VR experiences, any of these spots are for those of you who want to combine nostalgic gaming with craft cocktails. Just make sure you don’t play against a sore loser!
13 - Track Down The Best Beer Gardens in London in 2026
As we all know, the first "pint in the sun" is a sacred British spring tradition. And it doesn’t have to be a pint or alcoholic tipple, either.
Whether you’re looking for a riverside terrace in Richmond or a rooftop in Shoreditch, finding the right beer garden is essential. Check out the latest 2026 hotspots to find where the locals are heading this season.
14 - Enjoy a Themed Afternoon Tea
Is it just me or is the idea of afternoon tea oddly spring-like?
From Alice in Wonderland themes to science-inspired sweets in South Kensington, a themed afternoon tea is a sophisticated way to spend a spring afternoon in London, especially for Mother’s Day or Easter celebrations. Or any time you fancy a fancy cuppa, really.
15 - See What’s Going on In Greenwich
It’s 2026 and for some reason, people are still sleeping on what I think is one of the most underrated sides of London.
Greenwich comes alive in the spring, and there’s a lot more to it than just the Cutty Sark (which I also love, btw).
You can explore the Cherry Blossom tunnel in Greenwich Park or hunt for hidden history in the Painted Hall, grab a bite to eat Thames-side or just discover your new favourite independent cafe. Either way, it feels like a riverside village getaway without even leaving Zone 2. And that has to count for something.
16 - Check Out The Samurai Exhibition at The British Museum
You don’t need to be a gamer to enjoy the Samurai Exhibition at The British Museum, but if you are an Assassin’s Creed fan, then it’s a must-visit for 2026.
Step into an incredible deep dive into the world of the Samurai and feudal Japan, featuring rare armour and weaponry and their daily lives. Fascinating, interactive and well-worth a visit!
Find More Things to Do in London with CityDays

Whatever your interests are, there’s always something new for you to discover in London.
In fact, you don’t have to go out of your way at all to find them - you just have to know where to look.
Discover London’s secret sights and noteworthy nooks by playing one of our London treasure and scavenger hunts, food experiences, escape room games or walking tours.
Looking to provide the best team building activities in London? Look no further.
You’ll find curated trails and hunts all over London, including Central London, Mayfair, Shoreditch, Kensington and Southwark.
All you have to do is team up with your partner, friends, family or whoever to solve riddles, complete challenges and answer trivia to lead you on an unforgettable journey around London’s most intriguing streets.
The best part? We’ll recommend top-rated pubs, cafés and restaurants and give your team the chance to earn rewards by competing on our leaderboard.