London Heatwave 2025: How to Stay Cool, Safe & Sane This Summer
Pimm’s might be flowing and rooftop bars might be buzzing—but London’s latest heatwave is no joke.
With temperatures soaring to 33°C+, the capital is sweltering under one of the hottest summers in recent memory. And while we Londoners love a bit of sunshine, this relentless heat is pushing the city to its limits—especially as amber heat-health alerts are now in place.
Whether you’re a local navigating Tube commutes or a visitor here for Wimbledon, here’s everything you need to know about surviving (and maybe even enjoying) the London heatwave of 2025.
What’s Going On With the Weather?
Yes, it’s hot—and it’s not letting up just yet.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Met Office have issued yellow and amber alerts across southern England, including London, until at least July 15. That means there’s an increased risk to health, particularly for older adults, young children, and those with medical conditions.
The mercury has hit 33°C, and overnight temperatures aren’t dipping much either—turning bedrooms into mini saunas and commutes into saunas with handrails.
How to Handle It: 10 Must-Know Tips
1. Hydrate Like It’s Your Job
Always carry a water bottle. Tap water in London is safe and free.
Sip regularly, even if you’re not thirsty.
Skip the triple espressos and save the pints for later—alcohol and caffeine dehydrate.
2. Know the Danger Times
Avoid being out between 11am and 3pm when the sun’s at its fiercest.
Plan activities, park walks, and sightseeing early morning or after 6pm.
3. Dress Smart, Not Trendy
Stick to light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and SPF 30+ are your best friends.
Pro tip: ditch the backpack—it just traps heat on your back.
4. Master the Shade Game
Find trees, canopies, and shaded streets. London’s got plenty of green space—Regent’s Park, Kensington Gardens, and Hampstead Heath all offer breezy spots to cool off.
Cafés are pulling out parasols and fans—use them.
5. Hack Your Flat
Keep blinds and curtains closed during the day.
Open windows only early morning or late night.
A fan and a bowl of ice = instant DIY air con.
6. Use the Right Transport Strategy
Avoid the Tube during peak hours if you can.
Some lines (like Central and Bakerloo) are brutal in the heat.Buses with open windows and Overground trains with AC are a better shout.
Walk along shaded canal paths instead of baking on concrete pavements.
7. Be Tube-Savvy
TfL has activated its heatwave plan, which includes:
Slower train speeds to prevent track warping
Water stations at key stations
Staff trained to spot heat-related illness
8. Cool Off in Style
Head to open-air swimming spots like:
Hampstead Ponds
The Serpentine Lido
Tooting Bec Lido
Want AC and culture? Try a museum. The V&A, British Museum, and Tate Modern are free and gloriously cool inside.
9. Look Out for Others
Check in on elderly neighbours, young children, and those living alone.
Some cafés and libraries have opened up as cooling centres—drop in and cool off.
10. Recognise Heatstroke Symptoms
If someone’s confused, has dry hot skin, or faints—call 999 immediately.
Heatstroke can be fatal if not treated quickly. Move the person to shade, cool their body, and get medical help.
Bonus Heatwave Hacks
Sleep cool: Keep a water bottle in the freezer to use as a cold pack at bedtime.
Use aloe vera or peppermint spray: It cools your skin and smells amazing.
Chilled foot bath: One of the fastest ways to cool your whole body.
Ditch the duvet: A thin cotton sheet is your best bet for sleep.
Water Restrictions & Warnings
While London hasn’t announced a hosepipe ban yet, Thames Water has hinted it could be coming if the dry weather continues. So:
Keep showers short (4–5 minutes)
Don’t leave taps running
Avoid unnecessary water use
You Can Still Enjoy the City
If you time it right and stay smart, there’s still plenty to enjoy in July:
Wimbledon (yes, strawberries and cream are still happening!)
BBC Proms at Royal Albert Hall (indoors and air-conditioned!)
Pride in London, Henley Regatta, and outdoor screenings across the city
And of course, sunset walks along the Thames are unbeatable in this weather.
Final Word
London isn’t built for this kind of heat—but Londoners adapt fast. Whether you’re working, touring, or lounging, staying cool is all about planning, hydration, and common sense.
So drink water, skip the midday strolls, and yes, go ahead and treat yourself to that second scoop of gelato. You’ve earned it.
Follow @Londonyaar for daily London updates, summer guides, and more insider tips for locals and visitors alike!