Central London in August is vibrant, packed with culture, food, music, and plenty of opportunities to soak up the summer atmosphere. Whether you're a festival-goer, foodie, theatre-lover, or just enjoying a relaxed stroll in London's parks, here’s a curated guide to the best of the month. 

In August 2025, the theatre presents Brigadoon (Aug 2–Sep 20), a London revival adapted by Rona Munro and directed/choreographed by McOnie, bringing the magic of the Scottish Highlands to the open air. Plus. from 15 August to 7 September, The Enormous Crocodile, a lively Roald Dahl–inspired musical for families (ages 3+), returns with puppetry, music by Ahmed Abdullahi Gallab, and direction by Emily Lim and Toby Olié, a great day out in the park for the family. 

From 10 July to 31 August 2025 (and then on Thursdays to Mondays in September), Buckingham Palace opens its doors daily for the Summer Opening, allowing visitors to explore 19 magnificent State Rooms—including the Throne Room, Ballroom, Picture Gallery and Grand Staircase. New for this year, the East Wing—featuring rooms leading to the iconic balcony—is now accessible via limited guided tours, offering a rare glimpse behind the palace’s façades.When the tour ends, visitors exit through part of the 39-acre Palace Garden, following a scenic path past the lake and lawns—then pause at the Garden Café to take in the views before reaching the final exit via the gift shop tent. The palace operates timed entry slots and hosts last admission at 5:30 pm during July and August (9:30 am–7:30 pm daily).

The Royal Academy Summer Exhibition 2025 runs from June 17 to August 17 at Burlington House, London. Curated by architect Farshid Moussavi, this year's theme, "Dialogues", explores art's capacity to foster connections across disciplines and cultures. The exhibition features a diverse array of works, including paintings, sculptures, prints, and architectural pieces, by both established and emerging artists. Notable highlights include Tracey Emin's emotionally charged painting The Crucifixion, Ryan Gander's whimsical inflatable installations, and Cornelia Parker's intriguing convex mirror sculpture.

Until 17 August, 2025

Everyman on the Canal transforms the Granary Square steps at King’s Cross into London’s most beloved open air cinema, running until 17 August 2025. Enjoy over 100 free screenings—ranging from family favourites like Coco and Encanto, to cult classics and recent blockbusters such as Black Panther, Wicked, and Bohemian Rhapsody. Every Thursday at 5 pm, cinema-goers can vote for the film via the King’s Cross app, with the winning title shown later that evening kingscross.co.uk. The venue itself is a vibrant summer spectacle, featuring a bold, colour rich design by artist Yinka Ilori, inspired by animated cinema and his British–Nigerian heritage. While entry is first come, first served, there’s no need to book—attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure a canal side seat, and snacks and drinks are available on site