London changes dramatically with the seasons. With the glittering lights of winter to the vibrant transformation of the parks during the summer, you see different elements of London bloom like a flower over the months. This is no surprise, London’s long history of tourism means that it caters for all seasons, tastes and ages over the year. Just take a look at the accommodation Paddington London and the diverse rooms and attractions surrounding the hotels there. This is definitely the case during spring when the shifting weather patterns bring out a whole new light in the city. Whether you’re on the lookout for a unique cultural attraction or a park that simply looks beautiful during the spring months, London is undoubtedly the place to be.
From unmissable entertainment and gallery exhibitions to mind-expanding local events, these are some of the best things to look forward to from April through June 2020.
April
Whilst this month might have the freshness of winter, the spring is just about blooming. Whether you’re visiting the city for a day or a week in April, there are plenty of events that anticipate both the springtime sun and the April showers, giving you plenty of choice for London events.
London Marathon
Taking place on the 26th of April, the London Marathon isn’t just a charity race taking contestants all the way from South London’s Blackheath, past Tower Bridge and into the centre of the city. This 26.2-mile race attracts celebrities, Olympic winning professionals and many others, and is televised live. Whether you catch it on the street or you watch it from a pub, this is certainly a highlight of the London spring calendar.
Easter in London
With so many gourmet chocolate shops scattered across the city, you can expect London to really pull the rabbit out of the hat when it comes to artisan treats. Whilst shops such as Choccywoccydoodah might be the icing on the Easter cake, the heart of the Easter weekend from the 10th to the 12th of April is definitely the events taking place across the city. From the staging of Jesus’s crucifixion in Trafalgar Square to hymn singing in St Pauls Cathedral, guests at centrally located Park Grand Paddington Court Hotel will find plenty to keep the weekend sweet.
Cherry Blossom tours in London
There are many Japanese inspired blossom trees in London, all curated in reverence of the beautiful light pinks that festoon the branches for only a few weeks a year. During April, you’ll find streets across the city lined with these beautiful trees, whilst tours will take place throughout Kew Gardens and Greenwich Park.
Steve McQueen at the Tate Modern
Seminal contemporary artist, filmmaker and local Londoner Steve McQueen has a retrospective art exhibition that spans almost two decades of work. Exploring his use of video art and photography, this exhibition runs throughout April and till May 11th.
St George’s Day
This celebration of English identity takes place on the 23rd of April and promises hilarious, fun and dragon-slaying activities. From street markets to parades, jousting, Morris dancing and much more will be on the agenda, alongside many free festivals. These include marching bands and street food feasts in Trafalgar Square.
May
May is the month that encapsulates true springtime. With the May bank holiday, oodles of culture, and lots of springtime sunshine to take advantage of, May is the perfect month for a London weekend.
Bank Holiday Parties
On the 25th of May, the national bank holiday will sweep the country. One of the best things about a London Bank Holiday is that a weekend stay will place you right in the heart of parties, festivals and frivolous Sunday night events. London really does make the most of its Monday off, and whether you’re planning a long weekend or just a Sunday afternoon in the city, you’ll find that every borough will be offering something different.
Aubrey Beardsley
Running until the 25th of May, this cutting edge exhibition explores the controversial Victorian-era art of Aubrey Beardsley. With elegant yet risque drawings inspired by Ancient Greek myths and medieval aesthetics, Aubrey Beardsley’s long-forgotten works will add a surprising and unexpected edge to Tate Britain this April and May.
All Points East
Taking place in Victoria Park in the last week of May, All Points East promises a community-focused seven days of music, with a weekend lineup of ticketed international alt-rock acts and weekdays of free to visit community workshops and local musicians.
June
June takes us to the cusp of summer, and whether you’re visiting the city for the start of the festival season or just to make the most of the natural beauty of London, there are countless events that will see the sunrise on your own personal springtime London adventure. With the weather warming up, these are just some of the amazing festivals, events and traditions to look forward to during June in the UK capital.
London Fathers Day
Whether it’s a whiskey tasting session or a trip down the Bermondsey Beer Mile, there are more than enough options to treat your dad to on Sunday the 21st of June. With almost every street in London housing gastro pubs, brunch cafes and much more, you’ll never run short of ideas, especially with the great deals on meals at the Grand restaurant in Paddington.
Field Day
Taking place this year in Tottenham’s Drumshed industrial park, Field Day is one of the most highly anticipated music festivals in London. With huge alternative acts spanning hip hop, electronica and alt-rock, there’s something for everyone at this cutting edge music festival. With three indoor stages hosting the likes of Bicep and George Fitzgerald, this festival always goes down a storm with youngsters, both local and holidaymaking.
Trooping of the Colour
For the royal loving tourist, the Trooping of the Colour is the traditional celebration of the queen’s birthday (despite it actually taking place in April!). With a troop of soldiers, marching bands and members of the royal family making their way down the Strand and along the side of St James’s Park on the 13th June, this is the perfect way for London tourists to see the true majesty of the British Monarchy.
