KubeCon + CloudNativeCon Europe 2025 is heading to London, bringing together thousands of cloud-native professionals, developers, and open-source enthusiasts. While the conference itself is the main attraction, there’s so much more happening around it—co-located events, meetups, networking sessions, and unique London experiences you won’t want to miss.

Here is our guide to help you make the most of your time in London. Let’s dive in!

 

KubeCon + CloudNativeCon EU 2025: What You Need to Know

• 📍 Where: ExCeL London
• 📅 When: April 1 – 4, 2025

This flagship Kubernetes and cloud-native event brings together top engineers, project maintainers, and decision-makers to discuss everything from Kubernetes to security, observability, and AI/ML in the cloud.

While Keynotes are a must, there are so many talks, panels, and workshops that it can be hard to decide which ones to join. Be sure to check out the schedule ahead of time and mark the sessions you don’t want to miss. But remember, recordings of all talks will be available post-event so don’t forget to partake in the hallway track, too!

For folks interested in contributing to CNCF projects like Kyverno, ContribFest is the place to be! Meet project maintainers and make your first open-source contributions while networking with other professionals who share your passions.

💡 Tip: Register early for co-located events—they sell out fast!

 

Side Events & Meetups: The Best Places to Make Cloud-Native Friends

A huge part of the KubeCon experience is getting out and meeting new people and professionals who are leveraging the same technologies to conquer similar problems and learn from each other. The innovation that happens from networking at KubeCon lasts long after the event has finished and for many repeat attendees, this is the part of the conference they look forward to most!
Beyond the main conference, several unofficial events offer deeper engagement with the cloud-native community. Here is our list of the best places to make new Cloud Native friends.

Cloud Native Rejekts

This must-attend event is for anyone whose talk didn’t make it into KubeCon—or anyone who loves raw, unfiltered cloud-native discussions. Cloud Native Rejekts showcases bold, unconventional ideas that push the boundaries of Kubernetes and open-source technologies.

• 📍 Location: 116 Pall Mall
• 📅 Dates: March 30 – 31st

💡 Why go? It’s a fun, informal, and highly technical gathering where you’ll hear talks that didn’t make the official cut—but are still incredibly valuable.

CloudNative CoffeeOps ☕

This casual, caffeine-fueled meetup is hosted by some of the most well-versed platform practitioners in the space folks in a relaxed, social setting. CoffeeOps events are about sharing ideas, discussing pain points, and making new connections—all over a good cup of coffee.

• 📍 Location: Costa Coffee, East Entrance, Excel, London
• 📅 Date & Time: 7:15 am BST each day before the conference starts

💡 Why go? Great networking opportunity for anyone interested in Platform Engineering!

 

Special Interest Groups & Community Meetups

Network Nook 🌐

Are you a first-time attendee at KubeCon looking to connect with others? Or maybe you’ve been to KubeCon but are looking to connect with people who are passionate about Kubernetes and interested in hobbies like cooking, music, bike riding…
If this is the case, the CNCF Network Nook events should be marked on your calendar!

SIG Running 🏃‍♂️

Do you love Kubernetes and running? SIG Running organizes a group fun run before the conference—a perfect way to explore London while chatting with fellow attendees.

SIG Boba 🧋

Kubernetes and bubble tea fans unite! SIG Boba meetups bring cloud-native professionals together over a cup of boba to discuss tech in an informal setting. Join the #sig-boba channel on the CNCF Slack for details.

CNCF Kid’s Day 👧👦

Are you bringing your kids to London with you? CNCF hosts Kid’s Day, a hands-on event that introduces children to programming, robotics, and cloud technologies in a fun, engaging way.

💡 Why it’s great: Helps families attending KubeCon ensure their kids also have a tech-friendly experience.

 

London Attractions for Tech Enthusiasts & Sightseeing

Tech & Innovation Spots

• Shoreditch & Silicon Roundabout – London’s startup hub with tech meetups
• Science Museum’s Information Age Gallery – Exhibits on computing & AI
• Google for Startups Campus – A great place to meet fellow entrepreneurs

Iconic London Must-Sees

• Tower of London & Tower Bridge 🏰
• The British Museum (FREE admission)
• Big Ben & Westminster Abbey
• Borough Market 🍽️ – A food lover’s paradise

Hidden Gems & Unique Experiences

• God’s Own Junkyard – A neon wonderland for photography lovers
• Sky Garden – Free, breathtaking views of London’s skyline
• Leadenhall Market – A historic covered market featured in Harry Potter films

💡 Pro Tip: Make reservations for Sky Garden in advance—it’s free but book up fast!

 

Getting Around London: Transportation Tips

London has one of the best public transport systems in the world.

🚇 Best Ways to Get Around:

• Tube (Underground): The fastest way to travel—use an Oyster Card or contactless payment
• Buses: Slower but great for sightseeing
• Docklands Light Railway (DLR): Convenient for reaching ExCeL London
• Uber, Bolt & Black Cabs: Available but can be expensive
• Santander Bikes: Cheap & fun way to explore central London

💡 Insider Tip: Download the Citymapper app for real-time transit updates.

 

Final Thoughts

KubeCon EU 2025 in London is more than just a conference—it’s an opportunity to expand your network, attend exclusive meetups, and explore one of the most exciting cities in the world.

• Register early for co-located events – They sell out quickly!
• Network at Cloud Native Rejekts, CloudNative CoffeeOps, and SIG meetups
• Plan sightseeing & tech hotspots to explore London
• Use public transportation to get around easily

See you at KubeCon EU 2025 in London!