Few London neighbourhoods are more enticing than Chelsea during the summer months, and while Sloane Street is its beating heart, the whole borough comes alive when the sun shines. Between world-renowned art galleries and some of the best food and drink the capital has to offer, there is always something to do — whether there’s a cloud in the sky or not.

That said, it can be difficult to know where to start, so why not take a cue from the friendly faces who flock to south-west London time and time again? Here, our favourite locals and regulars, including television sensation Henry Southan and foodie influencer Clerkenwell Boy, share their top tips for the perfect summer in Chelsea.

Television personality Henry Southan recommends the perfect perch for a moment of zen while fuelling up: “My favourite spot for a morning coffee is on the terrace at Colbert. Regardless of the weather, I love watching the world go by with my caffeine fix. Quite often, I can’t resist ordering a bacon sandwich as well.” 

In good company, legendary fashionista and beauty connoisseur Trinny Woodall also notes Colbert as her “favourite restaurant of all time, because they allow dogs on the right-hand side and they have the easiest Brasserie food. You can just sip champagne and watch the world go by.”

50-52 Sloane Square, SW1W 8AX; book here

For a dose of culture, award-winning food and travel influencer Clerkenwell Boy recommends “checking out the latest exhibitions and art installations at Saatchi Gallery. I especially like the Summer Lates programme on Friday nights from May to September. Upcoming shows I can’t wait to see include Beyond Fashion, featuring iconic works by acclaimed fashion photographers from around the world; the RHS Botanical Art and Photography Show; and Yoi, an exhibition of works by Munupi artists hailing from Melville Island, north of Darwin, Australia.” 

Summer Lates runs 31 May-6 September 2024; Duke of York’s HQ, King’s Road, SW3 4RY; book tickets here

Skin is in – and fashion editor and style influencer Chloe Street says the best way to build and maintain a summer glow is with the help of the Sarah Chapman Skinesis Clinic. “Having worked in beauty for many years, I take my skincare pretty seriously. When it comes to efficacious treatments, Sarah Chapman is right up there among London’s best, promising the perfect mix of results and relaxation.”

259 Pavilion Road, SW1X 0BP; book an appointment here

For artist Clym Evernden (whose beautifully whimsical works you may have spotted in the windows of Diptyque of late), the Bluebird Café and its spicy salmon tartare salad, and Delica pumpkin tortellini make for a brilliant lunch. “I love sitting in the courtyard people-watching,” he says. 

Soaking up the goings on is also on the agenda for Trinny Woodall, who says Sloane Street is “the most joyful place to shop, because it’s that perfect combination of feeling like such a lovely local community and yet many international people come here. And of course, I had to make it the destination for my Trinny London pop-up. We’re bringing a pop of yellow to the Kinds Road for the summer!”

350 King’s Road, SW3 5UU; book here

Chelsea doesn’t have to be all go, go, go. Take a leaf from Chloe Street’s book and invest some time in finding your next good read. “Tucked away on a side street off the King’s Road is John Sandoe Books, an eccentric emporium where I can happily while away an hour or two browsing the shelves.” Once you’ve selected the perfect tome, find a spot to relax and enjoy the summer warmth at the Summer in Sloane Square pop-up – the al fresco destination for enjoying culinary delights from neighbourhood bars and restaurants. 

10 Blacklands Terrace, SW3 2SR; plan your visit here

Has summer even started if you haven’t had a scoop or two? We think not. Clerkenwell Boy can’t get enough of The Ice Cream Project by local fashion designer, Anya Hindmarch. “It is a great pop-up ice cream parlour showcasing a range of creative and eccentric flavour combinations inspired by household names and iconic brands. Expect flavours like Heinz Tomato Ketchup, Kellogg’s Coco Pops, Kikkoman soy sauce, McVitie’s Digestives, and more.”  

Pop-up runs 7 June-18 August; 11 Pont Street, SW1X 9EH; discover more here

Seeking serenity in the city? Follow photographer and lifestyle influencer Jess Henderson’s lead and take time to visit the Chelsea Physic Garden. “It has four acres of beautiful gardens, which have been cultivated since 1673. They have a great calendar of events to learn and relax in the garden’s sanctuary-like surroundings.”  

66 Royal Hospital Road, SW3 4HS; plan your visit here

For an afternoon of refreshments with plenty of old-world Chelsea charm, Clym Evernden says The Grenadier is a “hidden gem” that never gets old. A quaint, former officers’ mess with indoor and outdoor seating, the tiny drinking establishment is, according to Evernden, “a great place for a date”, thanks to its quirky character both inside and out. 

Fancy another one? Head to The Cadogan Arms – a much-loved Chelsea institution, where neatly potted peonies in every hue welcome you into the glowing interior. Rich red velvets meet warm mahogany panelling in homage to ‘the humble pub’, with a seasonal menu and carefully selected wines inviting you to stay just a little longer.

The Grenadier, 18 Wilton Row, SW1X 7NR; plan your visit here

The Cadogan Arms, 298 King’s Road, SW3 5UG; plan your visit here

Seeking a deliciously light bite? “Book a table at The Fuji Grill at Beaverbrook Town House,” says Clerkenwell Boy. “Book a seat at the intimate sushi counter and try some world-class Japanese cuisine paired with authentic sake and innovative cocktails. The omakase menu and signature Beaverbrook nigiri is a must.”

115-116 Sloane Street, SW1X 9PJ; book here

Just because the sun is resting, it doesn’t mean you have to. For a post-supper drink, …At Sloane is the only place to go, says Chloe Street. “Concealed in a row of Victorian red brick mansions just across from Sloane Square tube, the hotel opened last year as a love letter to Chelsea. It is super chic, and the sexy, dimly lit basement bar is a new favourite spot for after-dinner drinks.”

Wondering what to order? Follow Henry Southan’s post-filming ritual: “I like to sit in one of their cosy, candle-lit snugs for a martini and [some more] people-watching.”  

2 Holbein Place, SW1W 8NP; book here