Spring in London is a magical time. The parks bloom with colour, and the city buzzes with energy. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, spring offers a perfect chance to enjoy London’s iconic attractions — and if you’re learning English, it’s also a brilliant opportunity to practice listening, speaking, reading, and immersing yourself in British culture.
So if you’re wondering how to enjoy London in the spring and improve your English language skills, you’re in the right place. Here are five fantastic spring activities in London that blend culture, fun, and opportunities to level up your English.
Visit London’s Iconic Landmarks by Bus
When the weather is sunny, nothing beats sitting on the upper deck of a red double-decker bus as you drive past Big Ben, the London Eye, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and St Paul’s Catheral. The Hop-On Hop-Off bus tours are designed for sightseeing at your own pace — but they’re also a hidden gem for English learners.
Each bus comes equipped with English audio commentary that’s often spoken slowly and clearly. You’ll hear descriptions of major landmarks, interesting stories from London’s past, and fun facts that will boost your knowledge of British culture — all while working on your listening skills.
Since you can hop off whenever you like, the tour lets you explore museums, cafes, and parks — perfect places to read English signs, talk to locals, or try ordering food in English. For beginners, simply listening to English in context can help connect vocabulary to real-life situations.
If you’re interested in seeing most of London’s iconic sites, you can get a one-day bus ticket from £39.
Watch Shakespeare Plays at The Globe
Nothing says British culture like watching a Shakespeare play at The Globe Theatre. From late April onwards, the Globe opens its doors for classic performances of the Shakespeare’s best-known works with Romeo and Juliet and Twelfth Night being performed in 2025.
If you’re learning English, this is an incredible way to experience authentic English language in its literary form and in its birthplace. The language of Shakespeare can be tricky, but don’t let that scare you. The actors’ physical performances, facial expressions, and tone make the meaning clear, even when the words are unfamiliar.
The theatre often provides programmes with summaries, and sometimes even modern translations online. Plus, it’s fun! Standing in the yard, just like the 16th-century “groundlings,” brings a unique energy to the experience.
Language tip: Read a short summary of the play before you go, so you’re not lost. Focus on the main characters and plot, and try to catch key scenes as they unfold live.
Watch English Films with the Rooftop Film Club
Rooftop Film Club events offer a magical way to enjoy London’s skyline and a good film. Held on rooftops like those at Bussey Building in Peckham or Roof East in Stratford, these outdoor cinemas show hollywood blockbusters and British classics.
Now, watching movies may already be one of your favourite ways to learn English — and doing it in an open-air London setting makes the experience unforgettable. Most films are shown in English with English subtitles, so you can read and listen at the same time, improving your pronunciation and comprehension.
You’ll also be surrounded by fellow film fans — many of them native English speakers — so there’s a real chance to practise casual conversation before or after the show.
Language tip: Watch the film trailer beforehand and make a list of key words or phrases to listen out for. After the movie, try writing a short review in English!
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Beautiful Tulip Festival at Hampton Court Palace
Every spring, Hampton Court Palace, once the home of King Henry VIII, becomes a riot of colour during the Tulip Festival, which typically runs through April and early May. More than 100,000 tulips burst into bloom across the historic palace gardens, creating a fairytale setting that’s perfect for Instagram photos, picnics, and peaceful walks.
But beyond the visual beauty, the festival is also a great way to learn English in a natural setting. Guided tours and information boards around the gardens offer historical insights and botanical facts — all in English. It’s a chance to expand your vocabulary with words related to flowers, gardening, and history.
Even better? The palace offers audio guides in English, helping you practice listening comprehension while learning about the royal family and architecture. If you’re an intermediate or advanced English learner, challenge yourself by joining a live guided tour and asking a question at the end!
Language tip: Try describing the colours, shapes, and smells of the tulips in English. This kind of sensory vocabulary is often overlooked but very useful!
Get Tickets for the Tulip Festival
Enjoy Panoramic Views over London from Primrose Hill
Spring mornings and early evenings are the perfect time to head to Primrose Hill, a scenic spot just north of Regent’s Park that offers one of the best panoramic views of London’s skyline. It’s peaceful, pretty, and popular with Londoners who want a break from the busy city streets.
What does this have to do with learning English? This is a great place to practice speaking English in real life. Bring a friend to enjoy a picnic or meet local Londoners to have a conversation in English. You can chat about the view, the weather, what you did that week — anything! It’s casual, it’s relaxed, and that’s when the best language practice happens.
There’s also a nearby high street full of bookshops and cafés where you can read English menus, browse travel guides or novels, and listen in on everyday conversations.
Language tip: Bring a book or podcast in English and listen while you sit on the hill. Nature helps you relax — and when you’re relaxed, your brain absorbs language better.
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Learn, Explore, and Speak English in London This Spring
London in spring is a playground of culture, colour, and conversation. Whether you’re wandering through royal gardens, watching Shakespeare under the stars, or simply chatting with a stranger on a park bench, let London be your extended classroom.
Explore London and improve your English with International House London. Embrace new opportunities and book your English course today.