There’s nothing quite as uncertain as the British weather. 

So, when we’re blessed with clear skies, warm breezes and unobstructed sunshine, locating the perfect venue where we can soak up the rays – and avoid the crowds – is a top priority. 

Whether you’re planning a solo date spent reading, snacking and napping, or toasting to the sunset with your BFF, preparation is key. It’s always a good idea, then, to have some trusty places on your radar that you know won’t disappoint.

And if you don’t fancy sitting shoulder to shoulder with strangers amid a din of portable speakers and questionable aromas (Hyde Park and Hampstead Heath, we’re looking at you…), we’ve curated a list of London’s best sunny day hangouts.

From a secret garden patio off Columbia Road to Holland Park’s tranquil Kyoto Gardens, these are the Stylist team’s favourite sun traps…

“Hidden among the shiny skyscrapers and austere banks of the City Of London is one of my very favourite sanctuaries: St Dunstan In The East. 

A garden set within the ruins of a 1,000-year-old church, it’s the stuff of fairy tales: creeping vines hug the old archways and there are sun-dappled corners surrounded by ferns tempting you to sit and read for hours. 

For a central spot it’s amazingly peaceful – the thick walls seem to drown out any noise and I’ve never seen more than a handful of other people there. 

If you find yourself in need of a lunchtime recharge or want an atmospheric (and totally free) way to spend a lazy summer’s day, I can’t recommend it enough.”

Meena Alexander, Associate Editor

“I’m lucky that a mate of mine owns a very cool barber shop on the iconic Columbia Road, so in the summer there’s nothing better than hanging out on the little patio at the back of her shop. 

Even though the alley is open to the public, it feels like a slice of sunshine-y peace and quiet away from the bedlam of Sunday’s flower market. Plus, one of east London’s most lustworthy cake bakeries is just a stone’s throw away. 

I’ve spent many a warm afternoon parked outside waiting for my friend to finish her last fade of the day, with a tin of Perello olives in one hand and a Chambord Berry Margarita in the other.”

Amie-Jo Locke, Commercial Editor

“Ever since I moved to north London a couple of years ago, Primrose Hill has been a regular feature of my summer evenings and weekends, and this summer will be no different (if the weather allows!). 

Walking through the surrounding streets is so quiet and peaceful, with the odd group here and there gathered outside a quaint little pub, pints in hand. Even before I stroll through the gates of the park, I can already hear the hustle and bustle of people on the hill, sat on their gingham picnic blankets or reading the latest summer romance novel.

The walk to the top of Primrose Hill can be a little tricky on the old lungs but the panoramic views of London’s iconic city skyline are so worth it.”

Shahed Ezaydi, Writer

“I know some people think of Canary Wharf as a concrete jungle, but it’s honestly my favourite place to soak up the sun on a baking summer’s day. It’s London without the sticky crowds and you can pretend it’s a mini-Manhattan when the sun’s shining. 

There’s a beautiful little boardwalk right next to the river where you can absorb some vitamin D as sailboats float past. And then you can cool down with some pistachio gelato from Badiani Wood Wharf, before indulging in a long sunset dinner at Roe, the new offering from the trio behind Fallow. Dreamy!”

Madeleine Bourne, Commercial Writer

“As soon as the sun comes out, you’ll find me nestled in the long grass in the middle of Walthamstow Marshes. I go there all year round but usually it’s just dog walkers and their whippets trying to navigate the puddles. 

In the summer, however, it’s a paradise – full of busy little bees, beautiful wild lilacs and by August, bushes heavy with fruit. The air smells sticky-sweet with the scent of ripening blackberries. 

I tend to go the whole Real Housewives Of Clapton hog, with olives, kombucha and crisps. If you’re coming from Walthamstow, pop into the best bakery in London – Beaten By A Whisker – for the most delicious vegan cinnamon buns and sausage rolls.”

Miranda Larbi, Strong Women Editor

“London can be a sensory overload at times, which is why the Kyoto Garden in Holland Park is my sanctuary when it’s sunny. Tucked behind Kensington High Street, you wouldn’t know this oasis exists. 

The gardens allow you to switch off from the hustle and bustle under the canopy of Japanese maples and cherry blossoms, and the sound of the trickling koi pond is almost hypnotising. 

This is my not-so-secret solace for people watching, reflecting and savouring a Mr Whippy. I feel rejuvenated every time I visit.”

Flora Devenport, Campaign Producer

“When the sun is finally out, it’s my favourite time to explore different parts of London (and ideally finish at a park for prime sunbathing time).

One of my favourite routes last summer started at Columbia Road flower market, before taking in some time at Hackney City Farm and fuelling up on iced chai and a takeaway cocktail down Broadway Market (before making a quick pit stop in London Fields). 

Then, armed with a sandwich from Bread & Truffle, I joined the canal path and walked along to Victoria Park. There are so many sunny spots in the park where you can lap up the sun and have a well-deserved rest, but it’s also really nice to walk around the lake and check out the market on a weekend. 100% would recommend!”

Sophie Boyden, Social Media Lead

“My fave sun trap is the Limehouse Basin. I love taking my book there on my lunch break with a coffee or sitting by the water to catch up with friends over a glass of something chilled. 

When the British weather permits, there is always a good spot to just sit and chase the sunshine all day. Just being by the water in the sun gives me that holiday feeling.”

Sarah Jones, Senior Campaign Producer

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