Make August awesome
Find out what's happening along the river this month
Summer Festivals
Peninsula Al Fresco
Step off at Greenwich Peninsula this summer for Peninsula Al Fresco, a Mediterranean-inspired open-air market at Peninsula Square, just steps from the pier. Settle in under the pergolas, start at the spritz bar, then choose from churros, fried chicken, fresh pizza and smash burgers. Kids can enjoy free play like giant Jenga and Connect Four. Peninsula Al Fresco runs until 31 August.
Nearest pier: North Greenwich
Electric Summer at Battersea Power Station
This August, Battersea Power Station's riverside comes alive with Electric Summer - a nostalgic fairground featuring a Big Wheel, Dodgems, a wave swinger, and a brand-new roller rink with themed sessions all season long.
Enjoy stunning Thames views alongside street food, cocktails, sweet treats, and live entertainment for all ages. Perfect for family days out, date nights, or catching up with friends — this is summer in London at its best.
Nearest pier: Battersea Power Station
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Summer Screens
Canary Wharf’s Summer Screens are back now until 1 September, showing a packed line-up of live sport, free films and gaming fun. From F1, cricket and Wimbledon to Ascot and more, the biggest sporting events will be screened in the heart of Canary Wharf. The Film Club also returns with free weekend family favourites and midweek evening classics, from Hollywood blockbusters to musicals. Gamers can look forward to the return of the Mario Kart Championship and family-friendly gaming sessions on the big screen.
Nearest pier: Canary Wharf
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Riverside Sessions
Running until 21 Sep 2026 from exhibitions to music sessions, poetry and more — Southbank Centre's free summer events have something for everyone. Curated by youth collectives, it's all about embracing that youthful energy, whatever your age.
Nearest pier: London Eye Waterloo
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Free Summer of Art at the National Gallery
Until 31 August, get creative at the National Gallery with free, hands-on art activities for families. Build a castle, paint a masterpiece, or dive into the Take One Picture exhibition and The Keeper of Paintings experience.
Join the NG Creative Community for drop-in workshops – made by kids, for kids. Bring your imagination (and a packed lunch) for a summer full of art and adventure!
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August Bank Holiday is just around the corner - the perfect excuse for one last adventure on the Thames before summer winds down. From riverside festivals to exhibitions and food markets, there's so much happening along the river that you'll be spoiled for choice.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, make the most of the long weekend by getting on board and enjoying the ride.
⭐ Pre-book and save: Buy your tickets up to 3 days in advance online and save 15% off our Hop-on Hop-off tickets for all-day river travel. Plus, with a family ticket, kids go free.
Book now to secure your spot before the Bank Holiday rush.
Exhibitions along the river
Frida: The Making of an Icon
Now on at Tate Modern, running until October — this exhibition traces the extraordinary life and legacy of Frida Kahlo, revolutionary artist, cultural phenomenon and global icon. Featuring over 30 of her most celebrated works alongside garments, jewellery and memorabilia, it's a rich celebration of one of the most influential artists of all time.
Nearest pier: Bankside
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House of Dreamers London
Immerse LDN, Excel Waterfront, House of Dreamers invites you into a magical world of 16 interactive installations blending design, colour and technology. Built around the power of dreams, this immersive experience is designed to reconnect you with your imagination and inner child — with AI-powered experiences making it more personal than ever.
Nearest pier: North Greenwich (and then Cable Car across)
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Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition
Running until 6 September, this stunning exhibition brings Michelangelo's iconic masterpieces to London through high-definition printed reproductions. Get closer than ever before to the details of the Sistine Chapel ceiling — an unmissable experience for art lovers of all ages.
Nearest pier: Tower
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Summer Exhibition 2026
Running until 23 August 2026, the UK’s longest-running art show returns to Burlington House, showcasing contemporary works across painting, sculpture, photography, film, and architecture. Discover art from established names and emerging talent, with many pieces available to purchase in support of the artists and the Royal Academy Schools.
Nearest pier: Embankment
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Anish Kapoor
In August at Hayward Gallery, this major exhibition sees one of the most influential artists of our time return to the space where he staged his first UK survey nearly 30 years ago. Filling the entire gallery with immersive sculptures and paintings, Kapoor's works press against walls, floors and ceilings to create a truly awe-inspiring experience for the senses.
Nearest pier: London Eye (Waterloo)
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Julio Le Parc: Light. Colour. Action.
Don't miss out in August at Tate Modern, this immersive exhibition spans seven decades of joyful, playful work by Argentinian artist Julio Le Parc. Featuring kinetic sculptures, shimmering light installations and large-scale geometric paintings, the show turns visitors into active participants - where the act of looking brings each artwork to life.
Nearest pier: Bankside
Find out moreMirror Moon at the Royal Observatory
The Royal Observatory Greenwich marks 350 years of lunar observation with Mirror Moon - a new installation by artist Luke Jerram.
The 2m mirrored steel scale model is built from accurate NASA topographical data, allowing visitors to touch craters, valleys, mountains and the far side of the Moon up close. A rare, multi-sensory encounter with our closest celestial neighbour.
Things to do in London with the kids
Make the most of London with our Hop-on Hop-off tickets for the ultimate family day out. Choose from different filters to tailor your adventure as you embark and disembark at various piers, exploring iconic landmarks and hidden gems within walking distance. Discover the capital's attractions and plan your adventure using our interactive River Guide.
Explore more:
London's best riverside playgrounds
Things to do in London with kids (use our filters to better fit your day)
Make a splash
Help the kids cool off during the summer holidays by taking them to the many kid-friendly fountains along our route:
More London Riverside Fountains
On a sunny day, people adore jumping through the fountains near The Scoop amphitheatre in London Bridge City. With 200 spouting jets and views of City Hall and Tower Bridge in the background, it's the perfect setting for splashing with a view!
Nearest pier: London Bridge City
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Splash Park Barking
One fountain not quite cutting it? Splash Park Barking is only a short bus ride away (EL1 or EL3) from Barking Riverside Pier. It has a wide variety of fountain features going up and down at different intervals, as well as a soft, flat ground to keep the little ones safe. Relax and have fun!
Nearest pier: Barking Riverside
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Leicester Square Fountain
Located at the heart of Leicester Square, a lovely play fountain surrounds the statue of Shakespeare in the centre. Cool off while watching the many street performers around the square!
Nearest pier: Embankment
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Step aboard and let London's story unfold around you. Our audio guide, narrated in English by Rory Bremner, covers the rich history of the River Thames and the city as well as iconic television and film locations.
The Hundred
From 21 July to 16 August, cricket's biggest names bring the pace and drama of The Hundred to Kia Oval and Lord's Cricket Ground. With just 100 balls per side and most runs winning, it's quick, thrilling, and easy to follow — a great day out whether you're a die-hard fan or just along for the atmosphere.
Nearest pier: St George Wharf
Woolwich Woofs Dog Show returns!
Calling all dogs (and their humans) - this summer favourite is back, bigger and better than last year.
Bring your pup down for an afternoon of tail-wagging fun in the courtyard sunshine. Whether they're a show-ring natural or just love the attention, every breed, size and age is welcome to join in. Grab a drink from the bar, tuck into a hot dog (purely for humans!), and cheer your dog on in front of our panel of judges.
Nearest pier: Woolwich (Royal Arsenal)
From fairs, to light shows, and even a heart-stopping tight-rope walker, the festival brings together UK and international artists in a programme of ground-breaking activities and displays in iconic public spaces across London between 21 August - 6 September.
Nearest pier: Various
Battersea Park
200-acres of open green space, floral gardens and a boating lake, Battersea Park lies on the south bank of the River Thames. The park has stunning river views, a children's zoo and an adventure playground that kids love!
Nearest pier: Battersea Power Station
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Greenwich Park
A short walk from Greenwich Pier, gorgeous Greenwich Park offers outstanding views of Canary Wharf and the City on a clear day. As one of London's largest Royal Parks, Greenwich Park offers a wide range of facilities and is home to the Royal Observatory and the Meridian line, as well as the National Maritime Museum and the Queen’s House.
Nearest pier: Greenwich
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Thames Barrier Park
One of London’s newest parks, Thames Barrier Park offers the best view from the land of London's impressive flood defence, the Thames Barrier. Discover the delights of this urban oasis and its most creative feature 'The Green Dock' that provides a wind-protected microclimate for a variety of plants and butterflies.
Nearest pier: Royal Wharf
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Mudchute Park and Farm
Llamas, in London?! Mudchute Park and Farm is located on the Isle of Dogs, a short walk from Masthouse Terrace Pier.
Set in 32 acres, the farm brings a touch of the countryside to Tower Hamlets and is home to pigs, sheep, cows, donkeys and chickens as well as llamas.
Nearest pier: Masthouse Terrace
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St Dunstan in the East Church Garden
A 6-minute walk from Tower Pier lies the former church of Saint Dunstan in the East. A truly unique place in London, this peaceful green oasis is an escape from the hustle and bustle of the City. St Dunstan in the East Church Garden is set within the ruins of a Wren church which was bombed during the Blitz.
Nearest pier: Tower
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St James’s Park
The oldest of London's Royal Parks, St James's Park is at the heart of Westminster. The park's artificial lake, flowers, trees and birds will make you forget that you are actually in the heart of London. It has breathtaking views of Buckingham Palace but don't forget to say hello to the pelicans!
Nearest pier: Westminster
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Chelsea Physic Garden
Celebrating it's 350th anniversary, Chelsea Physic Garden is London’s oldest botanical garden. An oasis in the city, the tranquil garden was established to supply medicinal plants for scientific study and was only opened to the public in the 1980s.
Nowadays visitors are welcomed to learn more about fauna from around the world. Please note the site is compact so booking in advance is essential.
Nearest pier: Cadogan
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Bishop's Park
Across Putney Bridge from Putney Pier lies Bishop’s Park which has been awarded Grade II status by English Heritage.
The park houses Fulham Palace, the historic home of the Bishops of London, a beautiful walled garden and an ornamental lake. Bordering the north bank of the River Thames, Bishop's Park provides one of the best views of the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race.
Nearest pier: Putney
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