London tourist season: When to go, what to expect, and how to beat the crowds

When you think of London tourist season, the period when the city sees its highest number of visitors, typically from late spring through early autumn. Also known as peak travel season, it’s when the streets fill with cameras, the queues at the British Museum stretch around the block, and hotel prices jump by 50% or more. This isn’t just about weather—it’s about timing. Schools are out, holidays align, and everyone from families to solo travelers decides now is the moment to see Big Ben, ride the London Eye, or sip a pint in a pub that’s been serving beer since the 1700s.

The London tourist season, runs roughly from April to September, with June through August as the absolute peak. During these months, you’ll find Greenwich Park, a favorite spot for skyline photos and royal history packed with people lying on the grass, and the Old Royal Naval College, home to the dazzling Painted Hall booking out weeks in advance. Even late-night dining, a go-to after theatre shows gets busier, with restaurants in the West End turning tables faster than ever. If you’re planning to catch a show like Mamma Mia! or explore Hatton Garden, London’s jewelers’ hub, you’ll need to book ahead—or risk missing out.

But here’s the thing: you don’t have to wait until September to avoid the crush. The shoulder months—April, May, and September—offer nearly the same weather, fewer people, and better deals on hotels and tickets. You can still visit the National Portrait Gallery, where Britain’s history comes alive through faces without elbowing through a crowd. You can grab a £3 surprise food bag from a local app, or find a quiet corner in Spitalfields, a book market where vintage paperbacks still whisper stories without fighting for space. Even the London rent prices, which spike during tourist season as short-term rentals flood the market, drop noticeably once the crowds thin.

And if you’re smart, you’ll use the same tools locals do. Apps for 50% off meals, TfL refund tools for overcharges, and cash vs card tips to dodge hidden fees—all still work during peak season. The city doesn’t change; your approach does. Whether you’re chasing cabaret shows, vegan donuts, or Roman ruins, the London tourist season isn’t a barrier—it’s a signal. It means the city is alive. It means the pubs are full, the markets are buzzing, and the energy is real. You just need to know when to show up, where to look, and how to move through it without getting lost in the noise.

Below, you’ll find real guides from people who’ve done it—whether it’s finding the best dive bar after a long day, booking theatre seats with perfect sightlines, or eating well on a budget while the whole city is packed. No fluff. Just what works.