Staycation London: Ideas for a Summer of Fun

Planning a London staycation this summer? With hotter summers each year, there's never been a better time to explore your own capital like a tourist. Whether you're after a couples' escape, a family adventure, or a solo day out, we've pulled together the best London staycation ideas to help you make the most of it - starting with a few practical tips and ending with an experience you won't find anywhere else.

What is a staycation?

A staycation is a holiday spent at or near home rather than travelling abroad. Instead of airports and long-haul flights, you aim to explore and enjoy what's on your doorstep. For Londoners (and anyone within easy reach), this can mean world-class museums, historic landmarks and attractions, green parks, and unforgettable food - all without the cost or stress of going overseas!

How do you plan an affordable London staycation?

London is packed with things to do that cost absolutely nothing - simply wandering areas like the South Bank or Covent Garden is an experience in itself. The secret is balancing free days out with a few special treats.

A couple of money-saving tips:

• Travel light on the wallet, not on fun. Summer is peak season, so save where it counts: make the most of what London offers for free, pack a picnic for the parks, and book paid experiences ahead to lock in the best rates before they climb.
• Save on meals by having a big breakfast, packing snacks for the day, and choosing one memorable meal out (brunch at Brigit's Bakery, anyone?) rather than eating in restaurants for every sitting.

Balance the free stuff with one or two standout moments, and you'll have a luxury London staycation feel without the luxury price tag.

Where to stay in London for a 2-day trip

For a weekend staycation, base yourself somewhere central and well-connected so you spend less time (and money) travelling. Areas like Covent Garden, South Bank, and Bloomsbury put you within walking distance of major attractions, theatres, shops, food markets, street acts - you name it.

If you're visiting from just outside the city, look for a weekend away from London in nearby spots like Richmond or Greenwich, which offer a slightly quieter pace while keeping the centre within easy reach.

Things to do on a London staycation

Once your plans are in place, it's time to enjoy London sightseeing at its best. So here are a few ideas for you.

London staycation ideas for couples: the Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Our iconic Classic Afternoon Tea Bus Tour has been running since 2014. You board a vintage Routemaster, settle in at your table, and enjoy a full afternoon tea while gliding past Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and more.

It's afternoon tea and London sightseeing all rolled into one - the ultimate staycation experience for couples who want something a little different.

Founded by French pastry lovers, we've taken the quintessentially British tradition of afternoon tea and added our own twist. Expect freshly prepared savouries, an assortment of handmade cakes and tarts, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and a glass of Prosecco if you fancy making it extra special. We also offer Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free, and Halal menus, so everyone's catered for.

London staycation ideas for families

Travelling with little ones? There are plenty of fun things to do with children in London, and our themed, family-friendly tours are designed with them in mind:

• PAW Patrol Afternoon Tea Bus Tour - join Ryder and the pups on a mission across London, with each child taking home an activity book and special edition travel cup. It departs just a short walk from the Thames, ideal for a riverside stroll before or after.
• Peppa Pig Afternoon Tea Bus Tour - perfect for ages 5+, with an in-built screen showing a Peppa-guided animation and sing-along songs.
• MONOPOLY Afternoon Tea Bus Tour - an interactive gameboard experience for adults and children alike, with challenges and puzzles as you pass iconic sights.
• Paddington Afternoon Tea Bus Tour - a special Paddington-themed menu (who's up for a marmalade sandwich?) and a guided animation from Paddington and Mrs Bird.

These tours are a brilliant answer to the age-old question of cheap, memorable activities to keep families entertained - fun, food, and sightseeing in one neat package.

Can you enjoy a London staycation as a solo traveller?

Absolutely. A day staycation in London is perfect for solo explorers. Spend the morning in a gallery and take a leisurely walk through a Royal Park.

Then why not treat yourself to our Afternoon Tea Picnic? It's a beautifully packaged tea-for-one that's light enough to carry and fits neatly into a bike pannier. Filled with cakes, sandwiches, and scones plus juice and your choice of tea or coffee, it's the ideal way to enjoy a relaxed afternoon in the park at your own pace.

Treat yourself in Covent Garden

If you've got a few hours spare in Central London, visit our bakery in Covent Garden. Everything is baked daily by our expert French pastry chefs - fruit tartlets, chocolate éclairs, cupcakes, macaroons, and more.

It's also a lovely spot for breakfast or a light lunch, from a classic Croque Monsieur to a fresh salad. A perfect pit stop on any London staycation.

FAQs about a London staycation

What are the cheapest months for a London staycation?

Summer is peak season, but you can still keep costs down by booking early and leaning on London's free attractions.

Are there cheap activities to do in London for families?

Plenty. Beyond the usual free days out, our themed afternoon tea bus tours pack sightseeing, entertainment, and food into one reasonably priced experience.

How can I save money on meals during a staycation?

Eat a hearty breakfast, carry snacks, and pick one special meal out rather than dining in restaurants all day.

Where should I go for a weekend away from London?

If you'd like a change of scenery, nearby spots like Richmond or Greenwich offer a quieter pace.

A great staycation is all about rediscovering your city and treating yourself along the way. Whatever you're planning, we'd love to be a part of it.

Ready to plan your London staycation? Book an Afternoon Tea Bus Tour and make this summer one to remember.