Smaller Festivals to Attend In London This Summer

Summer in London is not short on live music. From open-air concerts in royal parks to one-day dance festivals, riverside performances and laid-back picnic-style events, the capital has a festival for almost every kind of music fan.

Hampton Court Palace Festival

If you like your live music with a slightly more polished setting, Hampton Court Palace Festival is a lovely summer option. Set in the historic palace grounds, it combines evening performances with a more relaxed, elegant atmosphere.

This is a good choice for couples, groups of friends or anyone who prefers a seated concert feel over a muddy field. You can make more of an occasion of it with a picnic, drinks and a smarter summer outfit.

For what to wear, think comfortable but put together. A lightweight jacket, relaxed shirt, summer dress, tailored shorts or clean trainers would all work well. It is still an outdoor event, so a compact waterproof or extra layer is worth bringing just in case.

Somerset House Summer Series

Somerset House Summer Series is perfect if you want a music festival that still feels very London. Set in the courtyard of Somerset House, it has a more intimate city-centre feel, with live music surrounded by one of the capital’s most recognisable cultural spaces.

This is a good choice for after-work plans, date nights or a summer evening with friends. It feels a little more refined than a traditional field festival, but still has that open-air summer energy.

The outfit approach can be slightly smarter here. Think relaxed tailoring, denim, linen shirts, midi skirts, lightweight jackets and comfortable footwear. You want something that works for both the gig and whatever you are doing before or after.

Kaleidoscope at Alexandra Palace

Kaleidoscope at Alexandra Palace is a great all-rounder, with live music, DJs, comedy and family-friendly activities. The setting is a big part of the appeal, with Alexandra Palace offering some of the best views across London.

It is a good festival for families, couples and groups of friends who want more than just music. With a mix of entertainment across the day, it has a relaxed feel while still delivering a proper festival atmosphere.

Dress for a full day outside. A casual jacket, comfortable trainers, sunglasses and a roomy bag will all come in useful. Alexandra Palace involves a bit of walking, so this is not the day for uncomfortable shoes.

KISSTORY Festival, Blackheath

KISSTORY Festival is one for anyone who loves old-school anthems, dance classics and a proper sing-along atmosphere. Set in Blackheath, it has an easy summer day-festival feel and works well for groups who want something upbeat and fun.

This is the kind of festival where you can keep your outfit casual but still playful. Denim, cargo trousers, crop tops, oversized shirts, bucket hats and trainers all fit the mood. A small crossbody bag is ideal for keeping your hands free while you dance.

As with most one-day festivals, it is worth packing light. Bring the essentials, but avoid carrying too much around all day.

South Facing Festival, Crystal Palace Park

South Facing Festival brings outdoor concerts to Crystal Palace Park, with performances staged around the iconic Bowl amphitheatre. It is a good choice if you prefer a concert-series style festival, where you can pick the specific artist or date that suits you best.

The setting gives it a slightly different feel from a standard park festival. It is still relaxed and outdoorsy, but with a strong live music focus.

For this one, dress for the park but keep it easy. A waterproof jacket, relaxed trousers or jeans, a casual overshirt and comfortable footwear will work well. Crystal Palace Park has plenty of green space, so avoid anything too delicate if the weather has been wet.

Battersea Park in Concert

Battersea Park in Concert is a more relaxed summer option, especially if you like the idea of live music with a picnic feel. It is a good choice for families, couples or anyone looking for a calmer outdoor music event.

Expect something a little more laid-back than a high-energy dance festival. This is the kind of event where you can bring a blanket, enjoy food and drinks, and make a proper afternoon or evening of it.

For styling, go practical but polished. A lightweight knit, summer jacket, comfortable trousers, trainers and a crossbody bag would all work well. If you are sitting on the grass, avoid anything too restrictive or too precious.

Waterworks, Gunnersbury Park

For electronic and underground dance music fans, Waterworks is a strong end-of-summer option. Taking place in Gunnersbury Park, it brings a more club-led feel into an outdoor festival setting.

This is one for groups of friends who want to dance, discover DJs and enjoy a more energetic festival atmosphere. It is less about picnic blankets and more about movement, music and a full day on your feet.

Comfortable footwear is essential. Go for trainers or boots, light layers, a compact bag and a jacket you can tie around your waist or pack away. Since it takes place later in the season, it is also worth bringing something warmer for the evening.

What to Wear 

London festivals are usually easier to plan for than camping festivals, but the weather can still be unpredictable. The best approach is to dress in layers and keep your accessories practical.

A few essentials to consider:

• Lightweight waterproof jacket
• Comfortable trainers or boots
• Crossbody bag or compact backpack
• Sunglasses
• Bucket hat or cap
• Refillable water bottle
• Portable phone charger
• Sun cream
• Light knit or overshirt for the evening

If you are going to a city-centre event like Somerset House, you can dress a little smarter. If you are heading to a park festival like All Points East, BST Hyde Park or Waterworks, prioritise comfort and weather-proof layers.

London is packed with music festivals throughout the summer, whether you want a huge headline show, a relaxed picnic concert, a family-friendly day out or a full dance festival atmosphere.

A good summer festival outfit should feel comfortable, practical and still true to your style. With the right layers, reliable footwear and a few simple accessories, you will be ready for whatever the London summer brings.