Spring has sprung in London which means it’s time for Easter. This festive holiday is all about tradition, gathering with loved ones, and enjoying the warmer weather. London offers plenty of activities for visitors and locals to immerse themselves in the Easter spirit. From visiting iconic landmarks to sampling seasonal dishes, here are some top recommendations for how to spend your Easter weekend in the capital city.
Easter Sunday is a major religious holiday, commemorating Jesus Christ’s resurrection. Westminster Abbey, a medieval Gothic church, holds a special Choral Eucharist service on Easter morning. Dating back to the 10th century, this service is one of London’s most popular ways to honor the religious origins of the holiday. It features glorious hymns performed by the abbey’s world-renowned choir. Another option is to attend mass at Southwark Cathedral, just across the Thames. Their beautiful neo-Gothic architecture provides a picturesque setting to reflect on Easter’s religious significance. As you plan your Easter getaway, consider staying at a service apartment in London for a comfortable and convenient accommodation option.
Now that spring has arrived, London’s parks and gardens are in full bloom. Hyde Park is one of the largest green spaces, with 351 acres of rolling meadows, tree-lined avenues, and the famous Serpentine Lake. On a sunny afternoon, pack a picnic basket and enjoy the fresh air alongside the daffodils. Just west is Kensington Gardens, home to informal lawn areas and sweeping vistas of London’s iconic skyline. For a more intimate setting, check out Richmond Park which features over 600 deer roaming freely along walking trails. Wherever you visit, take a stroll and admire the colorful display of flowers celebrating the season.
London is home to world-class museums filled with fascinating exhibits from around the globe. The Victoria and Albert Museum houses one of the largest collections of decorative arts and design in the world spread across 145 galleries. Explore thousands of years of human ingenuity and creativity through their vast assortment of paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and more. Over in South Kensington, the Natural History Museum is a favorite for its dramatic architecture and incredible specimens related to biology, geology, and human evolution. Spend an afternoon marveling at dinosaurs, taxidermied animals, and awe-inspiring fossils that will spark your imagination. Both museums offer free admission, so you can leisurely discover their vast treasuries without breaking the bank. You can also read: London’s Charming Garden Pubs to Visit
What’s Easter without eggs? Sample traditional treats during your stay. Head to Borough Market, an international food emporium, for artisanal chocolate Easter eggs, honey-glazed hams, and mini hot cross buns. Most hotels serve a special Easter Afternoon Tea including hot drinks, scones with jam and cream plus savory bites like smoked salmon sandwiches and roast beef served on a three-tiered stand with seasonal baked goods like mini Simnel cakes. As evening falls, venture to the pub to try their gin infused with seasonal botanicals or sample an English cider alongside a charcuterie board. Warm up with these cozy bites and beverages as you take in London’s iconic sights glowing in the dusk.
Nothing says spring like live music and dancing outdoors. On Easter Saturday, Hyde Park hosts the annual BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend festival featuring huge headliners across multiple stages. Watch huge crowds enjoy pop, dance, and rock artists under the sunny skies. For a more locally-focused experience, Camden’s Stables Market puts on their Easter Craft Market with over 100 artisan traders, gourmet food stalls, and family activities. Browse colorful goods while catching impromptu live performances throughout the market alleyways.
What better way to spend the holiday than seeing iconic sites that have stood testament to time? Marvel at the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey from the South Bank and take a cruise along the River Thames for picture-perfect views. Over in Trafalgar Square, feed the iconic pigeons while the National Gallery displays works by masters like Van Gogh and Monet just steps away. For panoramic city views, ascend The Shard which offers a birds-eye perspective from heights of 800 feet up. The observatory floors have floor-to-ceiling glass giving incredible 360-degree views across London’s skyline.
Easter is one of the most joyous times of the year to experience the vibrant city of London. Between the blooming flora showcased in parks and gardens, world-class museums display artifacts of history and culture. There are also the traditional eats highlighting local flavors, iconic landmarks standing as symbols of the city, and festive celebrations lifting spirits. There is truly something magical around every corner during the season. Whether your interests include history, art, music, outdoor activities or simply relaxing with a warm drink while taking in iconic views, London delivers unique ways to embrace the holiday. Consider booking a stay at the Grand Plaza Apartments Hyde Park for a comfortable and convenient accommodation option during your Easter weekend getaway.
