London Heatwave: Where to Find Relief
London is experiencing an extreme heatwave, with the Met Office forecasting temperatures reaching the high 30s Celsius from June 23-25, potentially hitting 40°C. The city's concrete and un-air-conditioned Tube carriages make it ill-equipped for such heat, pushing Londoners to seek out genuinely cool spots beyond crowded beer gardens and parks.
Ice Skating: Queens Ice and Bowl
At Queens Ice and Bowl in Bayswater, the surface temperature remains freezing year-round, offering a unique escape. While ice skating is the main attraction, visitors are advised to avoid bowling, which could quickly undo the cooling effect.
Historic Buildings: Naturally Cool Retreats
Older London buildings, with their metre-thick walls and superior insulation, provide natural cooling. St Paul's Cathedral's crypt, housing tombs of Sir Christopher Wren, Lord Nelson, and the Duke of Wellington, remains blissfully cool. Similarly, the draughty Tower of London, site of historic executions, offers an icy atmosphere. The City and Canary Wharf's glittering towers create fierce down-draughts, adding to the cooling effect.
Air-Conditioned Museums: Cultural Cool Spots
London's museums and galleries regulate temperature and humidity to preserve exhibits, making them ideal refuges. Tate Britain and the Wallace Collection are quieter alternatives to tourist-heavy institutions, yet still offer free entry. Advance booking is recommended during summer months.
Caves and Forests: Underground and Shaded Escapes
Chislehurst Caves near Bromley, at £7 entry, offer a subterranean adventure where visitors can sometimes see their breath even in high summer. The website warns of suitability for those with claustrophobia or fear of darkness and mannequins. For above-ground shade, London's woodlands provide relief: Highgate and Queens Woods in the north, and Sydenham Hill and Oxleas Woods in the south.
Lakes and Lidos: Open Water Swimming
Brockwell Park Lido and London Fields Lido are popular cooling spots. Open water swimming is available at the Serpentine Lido in Hyde Park and the Hampstead Heath Ponds, offering a refreshing plunge.
Public Fountains: Free Paddling for All
Granary Square, the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park's Water Labyrinth, and Hyde Park's Diana Memorial Fountain all allow paddling at no cost, ideal for children. According to the article, these are among the best free options to stay cool.
