10 ways to spend your summer bank holiday

The August bank holiday on Monday, 25th August 2025, is a much-anticipated date in the UK calendar. You’re almost guaranteed good weather, everyone is in a great mood because we get a summer’s day off work, and you can bet there will be plenty of activities to join in on. It’s your perfect chance to explore everything London has to offer - from street carnivals and international music acts to quirky attractions and scenic walks.

You also won’t have to worry about getting there, as Grand Central trains make getting to London smooth, relaxing, and affordable.

Here are the 10 best ways to make the most of your summer bank holiday in London.

1. Get futuristic at Camden Babylon Park

Right under the hustle of Camden Market, this neon-lit amusement park brings the fun of outer space to central London. 

What is Babylon Park in London?

Babylon Park is a two-storey indoor sci-fi wonderland featuring everything from mini roller coasters to VR simulators, classic arcade games, and rides for younger kids.

Where is Babylon Park?

53-87 Camden High Street, NW1 7JY

To reach Babylon Park Grand Central from either Euston or King's Cross, the fastest option is to take the Underground (Tube). From Euston, take the Victoria or Northern line to Oxford Circus, then change to the Central line and exit at Tottenham Court Road. From King's Cross St. Pancras, take the Victoria line to Oxford Circus and then change to the Central line to Tottenham Court Road. Babylon Park is a short walk from Tottenham Court Road station. 

Get some more travel inspiration on our London page.

2. Notting Hill Carnival – London’s Caribbean street party

You can’t talk about the August bank holiday without mentioning Notting Hill Carnival. Celebrating London’s rich Caribbean heritage, the streets of West London come alive with colourful costumes, Calypso music, steel bands, and jerk chicken stalls around every corner.

What is the Notting Hill Carnival in London?

The carnival takes place on Sunday 24th and Monday 25th August, with Children’s Day on Sunday and the full adult parade on Monday.

Where is the Notting Hill Carnival in London?

The carnival takes place on the streets of London W10 and W11, around Notting Hill, Ladbroke Grove, Westbourne Grove, Westbourne Park and Kensal Road.

To reach Notting Hill Carnival from either Euston or King's Cross, the best option is to use the London Underground (the Tube). From Euston, take the Victoria line to Oxford Circus, then change to the Central line to Notting Hill Gate. From King's Cross, you can take the Piccadilly line to Green Park, then change to the Jubilee line to Bond Street, and finally transfer to the Central line to Notting Hill Gate. Alternatively, you can take the Circle or Hammersmith & City lines directly to Ladbroke Grove or Westbourne Park stations, which are also close to the carnival route. 

3. Imagine Dragons live at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

On Sunday, 25th August, Imagine Dragons bring their high-energy, chart-topping rock anthems to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Expect a stadium-wide sing-along to hits like Radioactive, Believer, and Whatever It Takes.

How to plan for this concert in London

This is a rare opportunity to see one of the world’s biggest bands live in one of London’s most modern stadiums. Pair your concert night with a Grand Central train ride, and you’ve got the ultimate bank holiday weekend.
Top tip:  Booking ahead is essential.

Where is Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, 782 High Rd, N17 0BX

To get from either Euston or King's Cross to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the fastest option is typically a combination of the Victoria line and a train to White Hart Lane, or a bus from King's Cross.

4. Greenwich Docklands International Festival

This annual celebration of outdoor theatre, dance, circus, and performance art transforms public spaces across Greenwich and the Royal Docks. Many events are free, family-friendly, and visually engaging, making them suitable for all ages.

What is the Greenwich Docklands International Festival in London?

Here you can watch aerial acrobatics on building facades, open-air storytelling, and immersive street theatre - all in historic settings.

Where is the Greenwich Docklands International Festival?

Multiple venues across SE10 and E16.

To reach the Greenwich+Docklands International Festival (GDIF) from either Euston or King's Cross, the most efficient route is via the Tube. From Euston, take the Northern line southbound to London Bridge, then transfer to the Jubilee line eastbound to North Greenwich station. From King's Cross St. Pancras, take the Victoria line southbound to Green Park, then transfer to the Jubilee line eastbound to North Greenwich. 

5. Rooftop and open-air cinemas in London

Catch a classic or recent film under the stars. London’s outdoor cinema scene hits its peak in August.

Where are the rooftop and open-air cinemas in London?

• Rooftop Film Club (Peckham & Stratford)
• Luna Cinema (Regent’s Park)
• Screen on the Canal (King’s Cross)

What is an open-air cinema?

An open-air cinema is a cinema experience that takes place outdoors, typically in a park, garden, or other outdoor space. It involves projecting a movie onto a large screen and providing audio, allowing people to watch films under the stars or during the day. 

6. Secret walking tours of historic London

Discover the hidden corners of the capital with a Secret London Walking Tour. Whether you're into ghost stories, street art, or the city’s oldest pubs, there’s a themed tour for you.

What different walking tours are there in London?

• Hidden Alleys of the City of London
• Secret Soho and Hidden Gems
• Jack the Ripper Tour

Where do London walking tours start?

These walks depart from various locations – booking in advance is recommended.

7. Sounds of Summer on Carnaby Street

Over the bank holiday, Carnaby Street (the iconic fashion district) hosts free live music as part of its Sounds of Summer series. You’ll catch indie bands, acoustic sessions, and local DJs performing outdoors while the street is buzzing with shoppers and foodies.

Looking for delicious places to eat in London? Read our London food tour guide.

Where's Sounds of Summer in London?

Carnaby Street, W1F 9PS

To get from either Euston or King's Cross to "Sounds of Summer" in London, you'll want to head to Coal Drops Yard in King's Cross. Both Euston and King's Cross are very close to each other, and it's a short walk or tube ride between them. From either station, you can easily walk to Coal Drops Yard or take the Underground (Tube) to King's Cross St. Pancras station and then walk a short distance.

8. Wander through Little Venice to Camden Lock in London

Escape the crowded streets by taking a canal walk between Little Venice and Camden Lock. It’s a scenic, peaceful 40-minute stroll along the Regent’s Canal, with waterside cafes, floating bookshops, and plenty of photo ops.

Where does this walk in London start and end?

Start at Warwick Avenue (W9), end in Camden Town (NW1)

Have a peaceful trip by visiting these beautiful places in London to relax.

9. Relax at Kenwood House and Hampstead Heath in London

For something a bit quieter, head to the northern edge of Hampstead Heath, where Kenwood House sits in picturesque serenity. Enjoy views over London, explore the art gallery (featuring works by Rembrandt and Vermeer), and have a picnic in the gardens.

Where is Kenwood House and Hampstead Heath in London?

Hampstead Ln, Highgate, NW3 7JR

To reach Kenwood House from either Euston or King's Cross, the quickest route involves taking the Northern line to Golders Green station, then a bus (210) to Kenwood House. Alternatively, you can take the Northern line to Archway station and then bus 210, which also goes to Kenwood House. 

10. Classic London city sightseeing tour

If it’s your first time in London or you just want to see it all, hop aboard a London City Bus Tour. These open-top double-decker tours take you past icons like Big Ben, the Tower of London, and St Paul’s Cathedral.

Why you should go on a London city bus tour

It's ideal for ticking off London landmarks with minimal walking. Great for families and first-timers.

Where does the London city bus depart from?

Departing from Victoria, Embankment & other key hubs.

Make the journey part of the experience with Grand Central trains

Whether you're travelling from York, Bradford, Sunderland, or Doncaster, Grand Central Trains offers a direct and stress-free route to London King’s Cross - putting you in the heart of the action.

Check out our trains to London on our popular routes page. 

Why you should travel with Grand Central

• Comfortable, spacious seating
• No booking fees when you book directly with us
• Free Wi-Fi and plug sockets
• A wide range of Railcards and Group Savings to choose from to save you money.
• Advance fares available for budget-friendly travel

Spend your summer bank holiday the right way

From carnival crowds to quiet green spaces, from rock concerts to hidden alleyways, London truly shines over the August bank holiday weekend. And with Grand Central Trains, your adventure starts the moment you step onboard.

Book your train tickets early to secure the best prices.