15 Summer Desserts to Try in London This Summer
Summer in London isn't just about rooftop bars, park picnics and long evenings by the Thames.
It's also one of the best times of year for dessert.
As temperatures rise, many people swap heavy puddings and comforting winter treats for lighter, fresher and more refreshing options. Ice cream queues grow longer, strawberries appear everywhere and cafés begin filling their menus with seasonal favourites.
The best summer desserts aren't necessarily the most complicated.
They're the ones that perfectly match a warm afternoon, a sunny day in the park or a stroll through one of London's food markets.
Whether you're visiting the city for the first time or looking for inspiration for your next sweet treat, here are 15 summer desserts you should try in London this summer.
1. Strawberries and Cream
Few desserts feel more British than strawberries and cream.
Closely associated with Wimbledon and the British summer season, this simple combination remains one of the country's most iconic seasonal treats.
Fresh strawberries are at their best during summer, making this the perfect time to enjoy them.
2. Gelato
London's gelato scene has grown enormously in recent years.
Unlike standard ice cream, gelato is typically churned more slowly and served at a slightly warmer temperature, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
On a warm summer day, few desserts are more satisfying.
3. Soft Serve Ice Cream
Sometimes the classics are all you need.
Soft serve remains a summer favourite across London, whether enjoyed in a park, near the river or while exploring the city's neighbourhoods.
Simple, nostalgic and refreshing.
4. Eton Mess
This traditional British dessert combines:
Strawberries
Meringue
Cream
The result is light, sweet and perfectly suited to summer.
Many restaurants and cafés offer seasonal versions featuring other fruits, but strawberries remain the classic choice.
5. Lemon Tart
Bright, refreshing and packed with citrus flavour, lemon tart feels made for warm weather.
The balance between sweetness and sharpness makes it one of the most refreshing desserts on a summer menu.
6. Frozen Yoghurt
For those looking for something lighter than ice cream, frozen yoghurt is a popular alternative.
Often topped with fresh fruit, it combines refreshment with a slightly tangy flavour that works particularly well during summer.
7. Summer Berry Pavlova
Pavlova is one of those desserts that instantly feels celebratory.
Its crisp meringue shell, soft centre and topping of fresh berries create a dessert that's both elegant and refreshing.
It's especially popular during the British summer season.
8. Mango Sorbet
Sorbet is one of the ultimate hot-weather desserts.
Light, fruity and dairy-free, mango sorbet offers intense flavour without feeling heavy.
Perfect for the warmest days of the year.
9. Raspberry Cheesecake
Cheesecake is enjoyed year-round, but summer versions topped with fresh raspberries or mixed berries feel particularly seasonal.
The fruit adds freshness while balancing the richness of the cheesecake.
10. Affogato
Part dessert, part coffee.
Affogato consists of a scoop of vanilla gelato topped with a shot of hot espresso.
The contrast between hot and cold makes it one of the most interesting summer treats available.
11. Fresh Fruit Tarts
Summer fruit is one of the season's greatest pleasures.
Fruit tarts topped with strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and other seasonal produce are a common sight in London bakeries and cafés during the warmer months.
12. Ice Cream Sundaes
Sometimes more really is more.
Layers of ice cream, sauces, fruit and toppings make sundaes a timeless summer favourite.
They're fun, indulgent and ideal for sharing.
13. Peach and Cream Desserts
Peaches reach their best during the summer months, making them a popular ingredient in seasonal desserts.
Served with cream, yoghurt or pastry, they offer a lighter alternative to richer puddings.
14. Belgian Waffles with Summer Fruit
Warm waffles topped with strawberries, berries or seasonal fruit strike a perfect balance between indulgent and refreshing.
They're particularly popular at London's food markets and dessert cafés.
15. Artisan Ice Cream
London's food scene has embraced artisan ice cream in a big way.
From classic vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous seasonal flavours, artisan ice cream has become one of the city's most popular summer treats.
And for good reason.
Why Summer Desserts Taste Better
Part of the appeal comes from the ingredients.
Summer brings an abundance of fresh fruit, including:
Strawberries
Raspberries
Blueberries
Cherries
Peaches
Many seasonal desserts are built around these ingredients, giving them a freshness that feels perfectly suited to warm weather.
The season itself also plays a role.
A scoop of gelato somehow tastes better while sitting in the sunshine.
A bowl of strawberries and cream feels more special during Wimbledon season.
And a fruit tart is far more tempting on a warm July afternoon than on a cold winter day.
Where to Find Great Summer Desserts in London
One of the best things about London is the variety.
You'll find excellent summer desserts in:
Independent cafés
Bakeries
Dessert shops
Food markets
Restaurants
Gelato parlours
Places such as Borough Market, Covent Garden, Soho and various neighbourhood bakeries often offer seasonal desserts throughout the summer months.
Part of the fun is discovering your own favourites.
Why Seasonal Desserts Matter
In a city with endless dining options, seasonal desserts offer something different.
They connect food with a particular time of year.
Just as people associate Christmas with mince pies or autumn with apple-based desserts, summer has its own flavours and traditions.
That's what makes these desserts feel special.
They're not just delicious.
They're part of the season.
Final Thoughts
Summer in London brings longer days, warmer weather and plenty of opportunities to enjoy great food.
And few things complement the season better than a refreshing dessert.
Whether you're enjoying strawberries and cream during Wimbledon, cooling off with a scoop of gelato or sharing a pavlova with friends, these seasonal favourites capture some of the best flavours of summer.
So the next time the sun appears, skip the ordinary and treat yourself to something sweet.
After all, summer doesn't last forever.
Looking for More Summer Food Inspiration?
From seasonal treats and hidden cafés to food markets and London dining guides, discover more on LondonYaar.com. And follow @rohan.londonyaar for more ways to enjoy London this summer.