A Bahamas-inspired destination? A stretch of West London sand that returns year after year? Not only is the capital home to some seriously great outdoor pools and lidos, but it’s also got summer-ready beaches with cocktail bars, street food vendors and private cabanas too. What are you waiting for? Book a day off work and make it a city staycation with our guide to must-visit pop-up beaches in London.
The Montague On The Gardens
Solving all your summertime woes is The Montague On The Gardens. Taking over from their winter ski lodge, this tropical pop-up promises day party vibes, palm trees, a thatched beach hut and real sand. It's a great place for rum-based cocktails, or nachos and buffet-style meals.
You can even hire out this space for your own event, with room for up to 150 guests. They'll even throw in a DJ, dancefloor and your own private bar in the Great Russell Suite afterwards.
This pick of man-made beaches in London is all about the cocktails.
Walthamstow-On-Sea
Get ready to soak up some sun at Walthamstow-on-Sea this summer. This seaside dream is bringing the classic British seaside experience to London with beach huts, deckchairs, and retro decorations.
You can chill at the beach bar sipping on draft beer, slurping
frozen cocktails, as well as munching on fish and chips. They've
also got a brand new Gelateria from Hackney Gelato this year. And
the best part? You can even book a private cabana for eight to ten
people.
The seaside is coming to you this summer.
Pont Plage At Le Point De La Tour
This summer, Pont de la Tour brings the glamour of the French Riviera to the heart of London with Pont Plage, a sun-soaked riverside escape nestled along the Thames. The bar terrace has been transformed into a seaside sanctuary complete with real sand, striped deck chairs, vibrant parasols, and chilled Café del Mar-style tunes to set the mood.
Highlights include the daily happy hour, when you can get half-price St-Germain Spritzes and Hugo Spritzes between 5 and 7pm. There's also a food menu made up of honey camembert, crispy calamari with lemon mayonnaise, chilli-garlic prawns and more.
Enjoy incredible city views while playing on the 'beach' at Pont Plage.
JW3 Beach
Throughout July and August, JW3 Beach is returning to North London's Jewish Community Centre. It's found inside their weatherproof Dorfman Piazza, complete with a retractable roof and sides.
It's a family-friendly destination, with swim nappies and sun cream available to buy on-site. The cafe will also be serving a special summer menu.
This North London beach is suitable for all weathers.
Costa Del Croydon
This August, Costa Del Croydon returns bigger, brighter, and bolder than ever, transforming the Centrale rooftop into Croydon’s ultimate free summer escape. Running from the 7th to 31st August 2026, this much-loved urban beach is the perfect day out for families, friends, and fun-seekers of all ages.
This year’s edition brings brand new Beach Club Thursdays, which is an adults-only evening with DJs, bingo, karaoke, salsa and sip and paint. With real sand, sunshine vibes, and a jam-packed programme of free entertainment, it’s the go-to spot for summer in South London.
Look forward to great food, live music and more.
For more warm weather inspiration, take a look at our guide to summer events.
