How summer changes London mentality

London: a city that seems to be on the vast majority of the world’s bucket list. It’s also a city that many people leave saying, “It’s great, but wet, and the people aren’t that friendly.” They wouldn’t be wrong. London can be all those things. We are a city with downcast eyes on the tube, umbrellas ready to pop at a moment’s notice but on the flip side, it can also be the complete opposite. Well, for about three months of the year—especially if those three months happen to look like the summer we had in 2026.

With high hopes of making, it to the World Cup final and seeing the trophy lifted, the capital had St. George’s flags flying from lampposts, bedroom windows, and shopfronts. There was an undeniable buzz in the air. Yet, even after the inevitable World Cup disappointment, that energy didn’t just disappear and hide itself away for another four years. It stayed. London continues to show the other side of its personality. Beer gardens remained packed, and parks were constantly filled with friends meeting for picnics or games.

London shows the absolute best of itself. It proved that while we can be a city bogged down by grey skies, rain, and long winters, we are also a city full of life and warmth when the opportunity arises. As it turns out, there is nothing us Londoners love more than being outside among friends and family, making the absolute most of the summer. Or for others grabbing a camera and getting out amongst the crowd to shoot whatever comes our way.

For those visiting London, leave the touristy places behind. Head out east towards Hackney Wick, follow the Regent’s Canal, or go and see South London—places like Clapham Common or Brockwell Park. Get amongst the Londoners. That is where you’ll find the real heart of the city when the sun shines.