After a 250-year absence, the ‘Dictionary Desk’ of celebrated 18th century writer Samuel Johnson makes a historic return to his former abode, Dr Johnson’s House in the City of London.
The City of London in June is a treasure trove of vibrant activities and unique experiences. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the City offers something for everyone. From new exhibitions, to outdoor terraces and fantastic productions here are just some of the top things to do in The City of London this June.
1. Summer Music in City churches returns for its seventh year
Back for its seventh year, get ready to experience life-enhancing music by world class musicians in some of London’s most historic and inspiring buildings.
Choral requiem settings form the pillars of this year’s festival, opened by Sir John Rutter conducting Fauré’s much-loved Requiem, and closing with Daniel Hyde conducting Verdi’s immortal setting of the requiem mass.
Summer Music in City Churches.
2. Explore Hidden Green Spaces: Open Gardens Weekend (7 and 8 June)
Get exclusive access to over 100 hidden green spaces across London usually closed to the public during the Open Gardens Weekend. Over the course of the weekend, visitors will be able to explore a variety of unique and surprising gardens throughout the City of London.
Highlights include:
- Barbican Wildlife Garden
- 25 Cannon Street
- Cloth Fair Hidden Garden
- The Garden at 120
- The Golden Baggers
- Inner Temple Garden
- The Master's Garden
- Middle Temple
- Nic's Secret Garden and Plant Rescue Nursery
- Stationers' Company
Inner Temple Garden. Photo by Paul de Bois.
3. Celebrate Father’s Day in style (15 June)
From a special hamper from Fortnum and Mason to a day out exploring Roman Ruins here are just a few ideas on how to spend Father’s Day in The City of London:
- Grab a special hamper from Fortnum and Mason in The Royal Exchange.
- From rooftop restaurants with unparalleled views to dining with a twist, treat him to a delicious meal he won’t forget.
- For the history buff dad, head out to discover Roman Ruins together.
- Take him on a bucket list trip to a traditional pub with fascinating history.
- Find a special gift and browse around these fantastic Independent Shops.
4. Enjoy Stunning Views at Rooftop Bars and Restaurants
Thanks to the Vintners, good wine has been flowing in the City since the 12th century, and where else can you drink and dine while gazing at iconic landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge and The Shard?
Read our guide to 11 of the top rooftop bars and restaurants in The City of London to find inspiration for your next sunny day out in The City.
5. Celebrate Pride Month in The City of London (5 June to 16 July)
Bishopsgate Institute (5 to 28 June): Join in person or online for a mini season of programming celebrating London Pride 2025 at Bishopsgate Institute. Go along and dance, learn about LGBTQIA+ activism and history, explore our special collections on a tour and your own creative writing, or join online to delve into queer TV, literature and musicals, and the history of activism.
Second Saturday at Guildhall Art Gallery (14 June): At their next Second Saturday, Guildhall Art Gallery will be celebrating Pride Month by giving families the opportunity to create colourful angels or superheroes that celebrate the people in your life and the joy of being your true self.
Queer 70s: LGBTQ+ cinema in the decade after Stonewall (11 June to 16 July): A season inviting audiences to travel back to the 1970s, when LGBTQ+ lives were shown on screen with an unapologetic gusto unthinkable a decade before.
Classical Pride (27 June to 5 July): LGBTQ+ voices have always had a presence in classical music, and for Classical Pride 2025 they’ll ring loud and proud within the vocal-led programme Voices of Pride. The glittering finale of Classical Pride in London will be celebrated in the Barbican Hall with the London Symphony Orchestra, a world premiere by Jake Heggie commissioned by Classical Pride and a line-up of star soloists.
HIVstory Exhibition (2 June to 10 July): At this new exhibition at The London Archives, discover powerful stories from those affected by the AIDS pandemic of 1980s – 1990s.
Cocktail & Create with Sculpture in the City Artist Maya Rose Edwards (6 June): Celebrate Pride Month with creativity and colour at this unique workshop experience. Sip on a complimentary themed cocktail as artist Maya guides you through the art of crafting a folded puzzle purse, an intricate and anonymous paper message once used to share secrets and sentiments.
Promotional image for Pride Month at Bishopsgate Institute.
6. Visit the pop-up weekend markets at Leadenhall Market (14 and 29 June)
Leadenhall Market’s popular series of free-to-enter vintage furniture, fashion and craft weekend markets are back this month in its stunning glass-covered cobbled walkways. This month they are taking place on Sunday 14 June and Saturday 29 June.
Promotional image for Leadenhall Market series of pop-up weekend markets
7. Spend a luxurious Saturday at The Royal Exchange
A building that has shaped much of London’s commercial history, The Royal Exchange has over 450 years of stories to tell and is a fascinating building to visit and it is now open on a Saturday!
You can pick from Engel's Champagne Brunch, relaxing in elegance throughout the afternoon with Kiani Tea's Afternoon Tea (a Persian spin on a British classic), drinks on Fortnum & Mason’s outdoor terrace or as evening falls, savouring Chef Dana's haute cuisine at the Jang Saturday Dinner.
Engel at The Royal Exchange.
8. Amble around these wonderful displays and exhibitions
Whether you’re an art lover or history obsessed, the City of London has tons of fascinating exhibitions and museums to explore every month. Here are just some of the ones we would recommend exploring this June.
Slipping the Veil (until 14 June): Curator and artist in residence Elena Unger and curator and gallerist James Freeman have brought together over twelve artists in London’s oldest church for a contemporary art exhibition.
Heritage Gallery Exhibition: City Bridge Foundation (until 25 September 2025): This display explores City Bridge Foundation, a historic charity whose origins date back to the twelfth century.
Evelyn De Morgan: The Modern Painter in Victorian London (until 4 January 2026): One of the most remarkable artists of her generation, Evelyn De Morgan, has returned to Guildhall Art Gallery this year in a major exhibition that premieres two newly restored artworks.
Black Sound London at the Barbican Music Library (until 19 July): Explore over 100 years of British black music in Black Sound London, a free, interactive exhibition tracing its journey from the underground to the mainstream.
Encounters: Giacometti x Huma Bhabha (8 May 2025 to 24 May 2026): Featuring sculptures from Bhabha and Giacometti, this unique show at the Barbican spans nearly a century of art, exploring the body, trauma, and human resilience.
Feel the Sound (until 31 August): Experience the Barbican's bold new multi-sensory exhibition experience that explores our relationship to sound and embraces a world of listening.
Evelyn De Morgan: The Modern Painter in Victorian London at Guildhall Art Gallery.
9. Visit one of Roman London’s most fascinating remains
Beneath the curious old pathways of the City of London lies Billingsgate Roman House and Baths, a rich piece of Roman history surviving 2,000 years of building, fires and bombings and are one of Roman London’s most fascinating remains. First built around A.D. 150 then extended a hundred years later, it was occupied right through to the end of Roman London in the early 5th century A.D.
Public tours of the ruins take place on Saturdays between April and November and advance booking is required.
Billingsgate Roman House and Bath.
10. Find fun and engaging activities to keep the kids entertained over the school holidays
Keep the kids entertained with these exciting and educational activities happening across the City of London this month.
Second Saturday at Guildhall Art Gallery (14 June): At their next Second Saturday, Guildhall Art Gallery will be celebrating Pride Month by giving families the opportunity to create colourful angels or superheroes that celebrate the people in your life and the joy of being your true self.
Monster Art Club: Get creative at the Barbican Library every Saturday from 2 to 3.30pm. This free event provides all the materials for drawing, colouring, and imaginative crafting - perfect for budding artists of all ages.
Rhyme Time at Artizan Library: Every Thursday from 10 to 10.30am, bring your little ones (under 5s) to a free lively session filled with action songs, musical instruments, and puppets.
F1 Arcade: Feel the adrenaline of the Formula 1 track at this immersive racing experience. Located in One New Change, the F1 Arcade offers simulators designed for drivers aged 7 and up, with multiple skill levels to suit everyone from beginners to pros. When you’re ready to refuel, the menu has something for everyone, from burgers to family-style sharing plates.
Barbican Family Film Club: Enjoy Saturday mornings filled with family-friendly films.
Second Saturday activities at Guildhall Art Gallery.
11. Join a fascinating and free lunchtime talk at the London Centre (every Friday)
Join NLA for a free lunchtime talk every Friday from 12:30 to 1pm at The London Centre to learn about London’s historical and physical development.
Free lunchtime talks take place every Friday at the London Centre.
12. Explore London’s literary past after hours – with a glass of prosecco in hand! (19 June)
Step inside Dr Samuel Johnson’s 17th-century townhouse, where the great lexicographer compiled his legendary Dictionary of the English Language in 1755.
Promotional Image for Museum Lates at Dr Johnson's House
13. Ease into the afternoon with the Afternoon Meze Club at Leydi
Running Monday to Friday from 3 to 5pm, enjoy an endless spread of Turkish-inspired mezze -fluffy bread, bold flavours, and fresh ingredients, all designed for grazing at your own pace.
To top it off, they’re pouring half-price cocktails throughout, so you can sip, snack, and settle in for a couple of hours. Whether you’re catching up with friends or taking a well-earned break, this is the perfect mid-afternoon escape.
Afternoon Meze Club at Leydi.
14. Go for brunch in The City of London
Find places in the City perfect for catching up with friends on a Saturday over some delicious food and drinks.
Lucky Cat 22 Bishopsgate by Gordon Ramsay: Pop along for a delicious brunch at Lucky cat featuring their signature dishes and bottomless prosecco.
Rake's Cafe Bar: Experience Rake's Cafe Bar for new brunch where grooves meet gourmet. Expect a Saturday fusion of Disco, House, and Balearic beats with top DJs, gourmet dishes, and the ultimate vibe for your weekend.
1 Lombard Street: Every Saturday they have two sittings for their famous Bubbles, Steak and Lobster Bottomless Brunch.
Florattica: Dine in a venue inspired by East London’s textile industry and the local 17th century French Huguenots’ silk woven floral patterns.
Engel: Enjoy live music, breathtaking architecture and a champagne brunch at Engel.
Florrattica Rooftop Bar and Restaurant.
15. Attend Making it Festival 2025 (17 June to 14 July)
Making It Festival returns for 2025 with a three-week celebration of new, original work made by Guildhall School’s vibrant and multi-skilled student community, featuring an eclectic line up of performances, installations and talks.
Promotional image for Making It Festival 2025
16. Try your hand at a life drawing class in Guildhall Art Gallery (23 June)
Join 2B Or Not 2B Collective for this Life Drawing Class at Guildhall Art Gallery during which you will get the opportunity to draw in the beautiful surroundings of their Victorian Gallery.
Photography: Justine Trickett / Royal Academy
17. Barbican Summer Jazz series is back (16 June to 26 July)
Across June and July, a handpicked array of jazz superstars and international talent take to the stage at the Barbican.
Promo image for Summer Jazz Series 2025 Credit to Danny Clinch
18. Let your creativity shine as you explore your relationship with culture in The City of London through art and storytelling (11 June)
Join Artist Lu Williams and Things Made Public CIC for a hands-on zine making workshop as you explore your relationship with culture in The City of London through art and storytelling.
Zine Making Workshop.
19. Try your hand at Padel Table Tennis (until 28 September)
The London Sports Festival has started in The City of London with Padel Table Tennis at Tower Suites Walkway. Think table tennis but with additional opportunities to bounce the ball off the walls around you.
A new up and coming sport, this is first time it’s been played in the UK!
20. Join the Friday Night Lights run club (6 June)
Join Friday Night Lights, a vibrant summer run club that brings together the local community for an energising evening of movement, music, and stunning city views.
Friday Night Lights Running Club London
21. Find out what’s on this summer at the Barbican (12 May to 31 August)
The Barbican has launched its summer 2025 programme packed with events across its venues, public spaces, outdoors and even in its car park.
The season includes Frequencies, a programme exploring the power of sound and sonic experience, Barbican’s iconic Outdoor Cinema, a series live music events and concerts including a Summer Jazz Series, two major shows kicking off the summer theatre season with multiple Olivier-Award winning Fiddler on the Roof, brand new exhibition Encounters: Giacometti x Huma Bhabha, and much more.
Outdoor Cinema at the Barbican © Barbican
22. The London Festival of Architecture is back for a month long celebration of architecture and city-making in June (1 to 30 June)
This year’s London Festival of Architecture (LFA2025) explores the theme of Voices, highlighting underrepresented perspectives and emerging talent.
The City of London’s programme includes walking tours on migration and South Asian heritage, a mentoring day for young creatives, and a moving installation by POoR Collective.
Other highlights include a deep dive into London’s architectural history and a guided journey through Sikh heritage in the East End.
23. Learn to cook some of your favourite dishes with the Gordon Ramsay Academy
The Gordon Ramsay Academy, in partnership with HexClad, offers practical cooking classes designed for all skill levels. Set on the 58th floor of 22 Bishopsgate, the Academy combines expert instruction with panoramic views of London. You will learn new techniques, cook and enjoy dishes on-site, and take home both recipes and your creations.
Promotional image for Gordon Ramsay Academy, powered by HexClad
24. Check out the St Giles’ Book Fair (until 4 June)
Head to the St Giles Book Fair to find a very large eclectic collection of books donated by local residents, with new donations almost daily. It is open each day in St Giles Cripplegate Church, in front of the Barbican, from 11am to 4pm.
St Giles Book Fair.
25. Stay, dine and unwind at Apex City of London and Temple Court hotels.
Take a break from the everyday this school holiday with a relaxing city escape. Special offers are available at Apex City of London and Apex Temple Court, with both short and long stays designed for those seeking luxury, cultural discovery, and the best of urban living. Enjoy 20% off a two-night stay with breakfast included, along with 20% off dining at the hotels’ stylish restaurants and bars.
Interior view of The Lampery Bar, Apex Hotel. Credit Apex Hotel.
26. Explore money, music, and architecture at the Bank of England Museum this June
The Bank of England Museum is hosting a trio of engaging events this June that blend culture, history, and economics.
Take a free walking tour through 300 years of architectural evolution, from the Bank’s original home in Cheapside to its iconic Threadneedle Street site. Inside the museum, discover how classical design conceals cutting-edge security.
For a lighter twist, the Enchanted June Museum Late dives into the world of Swiftonomics, exploring Taylor Swift’s economic impact through music, talks, and festival-style activities.
And don’t miss the Future of Money lunchtime tours, which unpack the changing landscape of payments - from digital currencies to the enduring role of cash.
Lunchtime talks at the Bank of England Museum.
27. Vote for the best pubs, restaurants, entertainment spots, sandwich shops, hotels, venues and outdoor spaces in The City of London
City AM have announced the launch of their Toast the City Awards, which will bring together top names in hospitality to select the best pubs, restaurants, entertainment spots, sandwich shops, hotels, venues and outdoor spaces, all nominated by their readers. With 18 categories to choose from, nominations are open from 22 May to 31 July. Nominate your favourite spot now.
City A.M Toast the City Awards
28. The City Of London's largest garden has just reopened to the public following a major makeover
This month, get a visit in to Finsbury Circus Gardens – London’s first public park and the largest open green space in the Square Mile – which has just reopened following a major transformation project by the City of London Corporation.
Finsbury Circus Gardens in The City of London.
A date for your diary
Save 10% on City Beerfest tickets before 12 June!
City Beerfest returns this summer with an irresistible line-up of craft beers from some of the UK and Europe’s finest brewers including Guinness, Damm (Estrella), and Timothy Taylor. Set in the historic Guildhall Yard, the festival also features delicious street food, live entertainment, and a vibrant atmosphere, all in support of a great cause.
Book your tickets online by noon on 12 June and receive a 10% discount.
City Beerfest 2024. Credit City of London Corporation. Photo by Tim Whitby
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