Europe’s popularity in the tourism arena is not a big secret. A big chunk of an average person’s travel bucket list is packed with places from this little continent. The likes of Paris, Amsterdam and Barcelona are known for their distinct flavour. Likewise, London is another European hotspot that has its own fans. It is a city of cultural diversity. Attend an international cricket match in the city, and you'll witness a vibrant blend of English and non-English enthusiasts cheering side by side. Yet, London remains deeply rooted in its own heritage, evident in its architectural treasures that evoke a sense of nostalgia. The city proudly showcases its centuries-old legacy through a myriad of historical landmarks scattered across its landscape. What makes London perennially captivating is its ability to cater to a diverse array of interests, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. Discover the delights of a September spent in London, where every moment is crafted for the utmost enjoyment.
What makes London in September special?
In September, London prepares to bid farewell to summer, still retaining its warmth and allure, drawing many visitors. As the month progresses, school reopening leads to a noticeable decrease in tourist crowds, making it an opportune time to explore the city. London, a perennial favorite among travelers, offers a rare window when it's both inviting and less inundated with tourists. This presents an ideal moment to tour iconic landmarks such as The Shard and Westminster Abbey, enjoying a relatively tranquil experience amid the bustling city.
London in September: Weather
London has a fairly moderate weather in September. For most of the month, you will require some amount of layered clothing. There is a fair amount of rain during the month but snowing is unlikely. The sky remains overcast for most of the month. The daylight hours keep dropping throughout the month.
Visiting London in September: Things to do
1
Kew Gardens
Visiting Kew Gardens in London is a sensory delight. Lush landscapes host a diverse collection of plants from around the world. The Palm House's humidity transports you to the tropics, while the Waterlily House offers tranquility. A botanical haven, Kew Gardens is a serene escape from the urban bustle.
September Timings
Open daily from 10am to 7pm
Richmond TW9 3AB, UK
Getting There ›
2
Madame Tussauds
Visiting Madame Tussauds in London is an immersive encounter with lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical icons, and cultural luminaries. From posing alongside royalty to mingling with movie stars, the museum offers a captivating blend of artistry and entertainment, granting guests a chance to stand beside their favorite figures in striking realism.
September Timings
Open daily from 10am to 3pm
Marylebone Rd, London NW1 5LR, United KingdomGetting There ›
3
Buckingham Palace
London has a number of attractions that form its image to the world. Buckingham Palace is one of them. It stands as the representative of the nation’s monarchy. Buckingham Palace has ornate staterooms that you can visit. The change of guard at the Buckingham Palace is a spectacle and you shouldn’t miss it.
September Timings
Open daily from 9:30am to 6:30pm
Westminster, London SW1A 1AA,
UK
Getting There ›
4
British Museum
The British Museum is one of the largest museums in the world. It traces the history of human evolution as well as the complex developments that have led to the current state of our lives. On this tour, you will be accompanied by a professional guide who will help you navigate through the vast museum.
September Timings
Open daily from 10am to 5pm
Friday: 10am to 8:30pm
Great Russell St, Bloomsbury, London WC1B 3DG, UK
Getting There ›
5
Warner Bros. Studio - Harry Potter Tour
Harry Potter has been the single biggest influential work of art in the 21st century. The world of this franchise comprising of movies, novels, and plays has been brought to life at the Warner Bros. Studio. From the forbidden forest to the great hall, it is all there for you to explore. The drop-in student crowd because of the schools reopening in September will surely help you.
September Timings
Monday to Friday: 9:30am to 8pm
Saturday to Sunday: 8:30am to 10pm
Studio Tour Dr, Leavesden WD25 7LR,
UK
Getting There ›
6
Windsor Castle Day Trip
Head out on a day trip from London to Windsor Castle is a royal escapade. Just a stone's throw away, the journey unveils centuries of history and grandeur. Marvel at the majestic stronghold, explore lavish chambers, and witness the Changing of the Guard. A regal retreat blending heritage and allure.
7
London Eye
Surely you didn’t think it was okay to leave London without a London Eye ride? This observation wheel has become one of the icons of the city. There are capsules on this gigantic wheel which can be boarded from the platform below. You get a great view of the city of London from these capsules, including the river Thames.
September Timings
Monday to Friday: 11am to 6pm
Saturday to Sunday: 10am to 8:30pm
Lambeth, London SE1 7PB, UK
Getting There ›
8
West End Theatre
If performance art is your thing, you should catch at least one show at London’s West End. From the classics like The Lion King and Aladdin to modern productions like Waitress and Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, West End Theatre has quite comfortable filled the shoes of the British rendition of New York’s Broadway.
40 Bloomsbury Way Lower Ground Floor, London
WC1A 2SE, UK
Getting There ›
9
Stonehenge Day Trip
The city is still sort of packed with tourists in September. You might be required to look for a short day trip during your stay. None of the day trips is as loaded with historical significance as the Stonehenge. Believed to be erected some 5000 years ago, these stone blocks truly give you the idea of how far back human history goes.
Amesbury, Salisbury SP4 7DE, UK
Getting There ›
10
River Thames Cruise
September is the time when summer begins to give way to autumn. The foliage changes colours, giving London a unique hue. This sight is especially delightful from the Thames river. Take a cruise down the river from Westminster to Greenwich, passing Cutty Sark, the Shard, and the Tower of London on your way. The well-stocked cafes on the ferries make this experience a must.
Pipers Island, Bridge St, Reading RG4
8AH, UK
Getting There ›
London in September: Events to look out for
Totally Thames 2024
September 1 - 30, 2024
Totally Thames is an annual celebration of the river that gives London its unique identity. Throughout the month there are several events that take place along the banks of or on the river Thames, giving people the chance of having varied experience with the river in the backdrop. Environmental activities, river races, and art shows are the major attractions.
ABBA Voyage
September 1-30, 2024
Imagine ABBA appearing in their digital avatars. Well, that's exactly it! ABBA Voyage is a one-of-a-kind concert that features lifelike digital avatars of the legendary band, bringing their timeless hits to life in a way you’ve never seen before. The show is set in a specially designed arena, blending with the best technology with all the classic ABBA vibes you love. Whether you’re singing along to “Dancing Queen” or getting lost in the visuals, ABBA Voyage promises a night of pure energy, nostalgia, and unforgettable memories in London. Don’t miss this chance to experience ABBA like never before!
London in September: 5-day itinerary
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Day 4
- Day 5
London in September: Essentials
London Weather in September
September in London signals the transition from summer to autumn. Temperatures typically range from around 20°C as highs to as low as 14°C. Rainfall is common throughout the month, occurring roughly every other day. On average, London experiences about 6 hours of sunshine daily in September.
Where to Stay in London during September
With decreasing tourist numbers, securing accommodation in London will be more effortless. Nevertheless, anticipate no discounts on standard rates during September, a period favored by niche holiday crowds. Opt for lodging near central London if your plans primarily involve city attractions. Conversely, outskirts accommodations might be preferable for those planning day trips. Regardless, ample options are available to suit your preferences.
- Luxury: The Connaught, The Goring, Hotel 41
- Mid-Range: The Montague on The Gardens, Park Grand London Kensington, The Chesterfield Mayfair
- Budget: The Hide London, Premier Inn London City (Aldgate) Hotel, Hotel Moonlight
What to Pack for Visiting London in September
Honestly, London never really gets warm enough for you to completely forget about the jacket and scarf. September can be unpredictable because of the increased precipitation, so pack more than one set of warm clothing along with waterproof jackets and boots. Despite the humidity, chapped lips can be an issue, so don’t forget to carry a chapstick.
Getting Around London in September
Over time, London has undergone significant expansion, leading to its division into 32 boroughs for administrative purposes. These boroughs boast excellent connectivity through public transport networks. The Tube railway stands out as the fastest and most convenient mode of transit within the city, with local trains serving areas beyond the Tube's reach. In East and Southeast London, driverless trains provide efficient service. For those not pressed for speed, the iconic double-decker buses offer a charming alternative. Additionally, travelers can explore the city via waterways, providing both sightseeing and transportation opportunities.
Must-try dishes while visiting London in September
English culture and tea go hand in hand. No morning is complete in London without a proper cup of tea. Cream tea is also common in the afternoon, usually accompanied by some gossip and a few scones. Every English household will be happy to present you with a cup of tea when you visit them, but in case you are looking for a good cream tea outside, head to Aqua Shard.
English Breakfast has now made its way to almost every reputed restaurant in the world that serves European cuisine. However, you better try the breakfast speciality in the country of its origin. A typical English Breakfast consists of toasts, eggs, sausages, mashed potatoes, and vegetables. Try the English Breakfast at Hawksmoor Guildhall.
The English are a fan of a good fry. You are guaranteed to have some form of fries during your time in London. Duck Fat Fries are unique in the sense that they are fried in duck fat, lending it a unique texture and underlying taste. It is served with a raclette cheese dip and truffle mayonnaise. The Frenchie Bistro serves one of the best Duck Fat Fries in London.
A messy dessert is a dream. This elegant mess of an English dessert is quite sinful. It has some of the classic elements of a dessert- strawberry, cream, and meringue. Combinations of a number of ice cream flavours are used in order to create many variants of this dish. Head to the humble Eat ‘n’ Mess bakery shop to have a great version of this decadent dessert.
This is a savoury pudding dish that has become a classic in the country over the years. The Yorkshire Pudding becomes famously heavy when served with a side of the roast. A flour and egg batter is fried and then soaked in gravy. This is then served with vegetables and roast. Visit Mr. Fogg’s Tavern from one of the best Yorkshire Pudding in London.
Tips for visiting London in September
- Get the Visitor Oyster Card to ensure you don't have to deal with the wait times during the sufficiently busy holiday period.
- Visit the parks of London as the leaves change colour for an enchanting autumnal experience on your trip.
- Enjoy the wildly popular Underbelly Festival which has all kinds of events, including comedy acts, cabaret shows, and circus events.
- Make your booking for the Shard Observation Deck well in advance in September if you don’t want to miss out on the amazing view.
Explore London by months
Ready to visit London in September?
Here are some helpful links to make your trip to London in September a smooth sail: