In this article, you'll learn the following:
At last, summer has officially started! School’s almost out, BBQ season is well underway, and open-air events are filling up the nation’s calendars. Step outside and make unforgettable memories with family and friends.
Our network’s filled to the brim with unmissable events and places to kick back and relax. From beautiful beaches, the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, Pride events, food and music festivals and much more, see the best things to do in July in London and the South West right here. And don’t forget to browse SWR Rewards to find fantastic discounts on activities, food and drink, and stays.
Join the Pride parades
Throughout July
Pride month is celebrated annually in June. However, celebrations take place at different times across the country, usually between June and September. London Pride’s already been but there are more events to enjoy this July!
Portsmouth Pride - 6 July.
Bourne Free Pride - 5 - 6 July.
New Forest Pride - 27 July.
Check out our guide to South West Prides to get all the details on these Pride events, including what’s on and how to get there.
See the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival
2 - 7 July
Explore the world’s largest flower show, RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival.
Some highlights include the Floral Marquee, which is filled with beautiful plants and flowers grown by over 90 nurseries, and talks, creative demonstrations and practical workshops on gardening, floristry, and health and wellbeing. See the top things to do while you’re there. Get your tickets.
Have summer holiday family fun
Keep the kids entertained on their summer holidays. We’ve rounded up some of the season’s best things to do.
See the south west’s wildlife
The South West’s full of places to see wildlife.
Head to New Forest, where you can visit a Reptile Centre, Wildlife Park and Deer Safari, as well as the Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary and Longdown Activity Farm.
Go to Marwell Zoo where you can see the likes of lemurs, giraffes, leopards and much more. To get there, catch the M1 bus from Southampton City Centre.
There’s a creature takeover at Winchester Cathedral this summer that’s worth a look in. There’ll be tours, workshops, interactive trails, an urban safari and more.
If you’re planning a day trip or weekend in the capital, take a look at our best farm days out in London guide which includes all you need to know for a fun-filled day out in Spitalfields City Farm, Hackney City Farm, Surrey Docks Farm and more.
If a staycation in the country is more up your alley, try a farm stay. We’ve put together a guide with the best ones in the south west including Norden Farm Campsite, Thorncombe Farm, and Yellowham Farm B&B.
Try water sports on south west waters
Hire a jet ski and tour the south coast on the water. With Float Jet Ski, you can adventure from the River Hamble in Southampton to the Isle of white. If you’re going with kids, they’ll need to be over the age of 14 and accompanied by someone who’s over 21 to take part. If you'd rather something a bit more relaxing and suited to little ones then hire a kayak or paddleboard instead.
You can also explore Dorset’s world-famous Jurassic Coast on the water. Do a jet ski tour up and down the coastline while taking in stunning views. Kids from age 10 can join in, as long as they’re with an adult.
Head to the capital and ride a speedboat on the Thames ‘rocket style’. Ride under London’s famous bridges and see the top landmarks while guided by award winning comedians on your tour to Canary Wharf and back. Book with us directly to get 10% off your trip via SWR Rewards.
Head to a theme park
Looking for a thrill-seekers day out? There are plenty of theme parks to enjoy across our network, which we’ve detailed below.
Thorpe Park - Home to an enticing selection of rollercoasters and water rides. Get 10% off with SWR Rewards.
LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort - With 55 magical rides and attractions to suit kids and adults. Get a third off when you travel by train.
Peppa Pig World - Step into Peppa’s very own themed world to enjoy fun rides, and meet the characters!
Chessington World of Adventures - As well as thrilling rollercoasters and water rides, this family fun haven includes a zoo and SEA LIFE centre. Get a third off with SWR Rewards.
Need some more inspo? See our top 10 summer outdoor activities with the kids guide which notes plenty to try including budget-friendly activities like hikes, bike rides, and campouts.
Hit the beach
You don’t need to fly abroad to experience beautiful beaches. We’re super lucky to have an array of stunning seaside towns to visit that are just a train ride away.
Whether you fancy a short and sweet day trip, or a well-earned beach break staycation, we’ve got you covered. From popular picks like Bournemouth and Weymouth to hidden gems in the Isle of White, see our guide to the South West’s 13 best beaches.
Watch Wimbledon in London
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Throughout July
A British staple - the annual Wimbledon Tennis Championship kicks off on 1 July! The ballot for tickets to the championships has closed. However, there are a few other options for getting courtside views, including same-day purchases. The ticket queue often starts the evening before, but if you get there before 9am you’ll still have a decent chance of getting in, according to the Wimbledon website.
On a budget but want a buzzy atmosphere? Head to a free screening! Here are some of the most notable places to catch the live action.
Wimbledon - If you want to stay close to the stadium, go to the Piazza to watch the game on a big high-definition screen. There are lots of deck chairs to lounge on and plenty of pubs and restaurants to get food and drinks close by. You can get a train directly from Waterloo station to Wimbledon in under 20 minutes.
Canary Wharf - Head to Canada Square Park and Cabot Square to watch the games on a giant screen. There are plenty of bars and restaurants nearby to fill up on food and cold beverages.
King’s Cross - Canalside in Granary Square gets pretty busy so one to consider if you want to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle. We’d suggest getting there early if you want to get a seat!
Covent Garden - Go to Covent Garden’s famous market where a big screen will be put up to show the tournament. It’s a tourist hotspot though, so be prepared for it to be super busy. There are heaps of pubs and places to eat. You’ll be spoilt for choice!
Immerse yourself in classical music at BBC Proms
From 19 July
If you’re a fan of classical music, BBC Proms is a must-see. It’s an 8-week event - running between 19 July and 14 September - of daily orchestral classical music concerts and other events at Royal Albert Hall.
Hear musicians play sounds from Bach, Beethoven, Clara Schumann, Shostakovich, Sibelius, Elgar and more this Proms season.
Have a browse to find the event(s) you’d like to see and book your tickets online. To get there from Waterloo station, get the jubilee line to Green Park and catch the number 9 bus to Royal Albert Hall.
Explore the South West’s best festivals
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Our network’s home to a myriad of festivals including one of the world's biggest - Glastonbury. While ticket sales are done and dusted for the year there are still lots more to enjoy. Take a peak at these food and music festivals across the network.
Music festivals
Wireless Festival - Taking place between 12-14 July in London’s Finsbury Park, this one’s for rap and urban music fans. 2024 headliners include Nicki Minaj, Sean Paul, Ice Spice and J Hus. It’s a non-camping festival, which means you can head home to freshen up before you do it all again. You can also opt for one-day tickets if you don’t fancy 2 days on the trot! It takes less than 30 minutes on the tube to get to Finsbury Park from Waterloo station.
Poole Harbour Festival - See over 50 acts across 4 stages at Poole and Bournemouth’s biggest family live music festival between 26-28 July. Headliners this year include Razorlight and The Coral. Plus, fill up on delicious street food, tasty desserts, and local ales and ciders.
Camp Bestival - A fabulous family festival in Wool, Dorset, perfect for the little ones. Stay for the weekend or pick a day to go. Taking place between 25-28 July, there are lots of fun activities including a kids’ theatre and circus, face painting and arts and crafts. Plus, see the likes of Pete Tong, Paloma Faith, McFLy and more.
Big Beach Weekender - Head to Harbour Beach in Ryde, Isle of White for this one. Spread over 3 days (11 - 13 July), see music, comedy and more here including 90s anthems, dance music, and stand up acts. During the festival we’re extending our last service – which departs at 23:20 from Ryde Esplanade – all the way to Shanklin (instead of its usual last stop, Ryde St John’s Road)!
Bournemouth Reggae Weekender - Join a 3-day festival of diverse African culture and heritage here. Taking place between 26-28 July, this not-for-profit festival features heaps of entertainment and activities, including music, dancing, storytelling, workshops and more.
Food festivals
London boasts some of the best food spots on the planet and its food festivals are also one to rave about. There are plenty to choose from for July including:
- Bread & Jam Food Founders Festival
- Savour Festival
- National Geographic Traveller Food Festival
- Wing Fest
If you don’t fancy strolling through the city, look into Richmond’s popular Surrey Food Festival. Foodies Festival in Winchester is also a shout and includes music from Sister Sledge and Blue. A good one for families - try Weymouth Food and Family Festival.
Have a read of our top 10 festival tips to help your trip go smoothly, and our ultimate South West festival guide for details on the top festivals across the region.
Activity festivals
Sandpolo - Head to Poole for this one, also known as the British Beach Polo Championships on 12-13 July. The games make for a super enjoyable watch and day out with family and friends - whether you’re an avid polo fan or spectating for the first time. You can enjoy the games, food and drink, and evening entertainment here.
The New Forest & Hampshire County Show ( 30 July - 1 August) - Filled with fun and entertainment for the whole family, here, you’ll experience a myriad of activities – from show jumping to circus workshops, dance displays and much more in the surroundings of the iconic New Forest.
Plan your travel with South Western Railway
Now you’ve filled your July calendar, it’s time to plan your travel. Find cheap train tickets by travelling off-peak and enjoy further discounts with a Railcard. If you’re travelling in a group, you could benefit from GroupSave.
We’ll catch you next month with ideas for what to do across our network in August.
