Whether or not you reside within the capital or are visiting the town for a household vacation, there are some incredible actions to take pleasure in in the course of the summer time holidays in London with children this 12 months. UPDATED FOR 2025
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From free summer time days out in London with children to festivals, exhibitions, actions, theatre performances, probabilities to get open air and causes to tempt you into museums and galleries, you’ll be spoiled for selection, no matter your finances and nonetheless outdated your children.
Many want prebooking, however there are alternatives when you’re feeling spontaneous and simply need to drop in, in addition to concepts to take you from early July proper to the tip of the college summer time holidays in London in early September. Learn on for my prime picks, with greater than 60 household days out.
For extra locations to chill down on sizzling days in London with children, together with points of interest with air con and London summer time splash pads, take a look at my prime picks
Duke and disorderly on the Tower of London
This summer time, the Tower of London is taking you again to the early nineteenth century, when the Duke of Wellington has simply been made Constable of the Tower.
It’s his job to convey some order to the Tower, someplace which is nearer to a ramshackle city in 1826 however not everybody’s blissful along with his plans, which embody shutting down the Royal Menagerie, closing the taverns and even draining the smelly moat.
As you discover, you’ll be able to meet a few of the most memorable characters related to the Tower, and study extra about their extraordinary jobs – and resolve whether or not you’re on the facet of the Iron Duke or favor a little bit mayhem within the Tower.
Working from July 7-August 31, it’s included in tickets. Plus you’ll be able to eye up the Crown Jewels and luxuriate in some extra royal historical past – get discounted tickets utilizing my code MUMMYTRAVELS6.
Jousting and Peter Rabbit at Hampton Courtroom Palace
Hampton Courtroom Palace is reliving Henry VIII’s glory days from July 12-13 and 19-20, with an actual Tudor joust on the king’s former residence.
Famously a eager jouster himself – hold an eye fixed out to see if the much-married monarch decides to participate – you’ll see the pomp, ceremony and splendour up shut.
Choose your favorite knight, cheer him on to victory, jeer at his opponents after which brace your self for the shattering second when the lances collide to see who’ll be supreme. Between jousting there can even be some spectacular falconry shows, in addition to an opportunity to get near the birds.
Or youthful children will love the possibility to observe Peter Rabbit by means of the palace gardens, fixing puzzles and assembly different Beatrix Potter characters alongside the way in which.
There are many alternatives to get fingers on, whether or not you need to assist Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle along with her washing, or mend the Tailor of Gloucester’s coat, in addition to making an attempt to unravel Squirrel Nutkin’s riddles (all whereas watching out for Mr McGregor). From July 25-September 7.
Each included in entry, together with the standard points of interest from the Nice Corridor and historic flats to the Tudor kitchens, the maze and the Magic Backyard playground.
Be a part of the Zoo Crew at London Zoo
Be a part of the Zoo Crew this summer time at London Zoo with a string of actions to introduce younger animal-lovers to what working on the zoo includes.
There’s all the pieces from roleplay to dress-up actions, as children find out about all the pieces which matches into taking care of the animals, together with feeding them, caring for his or her well being and serving to to guard them within the wild.
Every exercise station has primary and extra superior challenges, so there’s one thing to enchantment to all ages. And when you full the position of Zookeeper, Discipline Conservationist and Scientists, you’ll be able to graduate as one of many Zoo Crew.
Included in zoo entry, runs from July 23-September 1. Tickets could also be out there on the gate on the day, topic to availability, however you’ll get a reduction when you guide on-line prematurely.
House: May Life Exist past Earth on the Pure Historical past Museum
May there be life on Mars? Or anyplace else within the universe? That’s what the most recent exhibition on the Pure Historical past Museum units off to reply.
House: May Life Exist past Earth lets guests contact a fraction of the Moon, deal with a bit of Mars and snap a selfie with the Allende meteorite, which – at 4.567 billion years outdated – is even older than Earth!
With rising quantities of proof to counsel there’s life past earth, you’ll journey out into house, visiting asteroids, planets, the icy moons of Jupiter and Saturn and even head past our photo voltaic system. Alongside the way in which you’ll be able to design your personal house mission and see what scientists assume might be on the market.
Really helpful for all times varieties aged 8+ however appropriate for all ages. Runs to February 2026, prebooking suggested throughout faculty holidays.
Making Egypt on the Younger V&A
The newest exhibition on the Younger V&A – Making Egypt – takes guests on a visit by means of Egyptian historical past, and remains to be operating all through the summer time.
Trying on the methods Egypt influences artwork, design and widespread tradition at present, the exhibition takes you from historic Egypt to the trendy day.
That includes objects spanning greater than 5,500 years, you’ll be able to see all the pieces from the totally painted internal sarcophagus of Princess Sopdet-em-haawt alongside modern comics, video games and movie, together with Lego, minecraft and The Mummy film.
There’s additionally an opportunity to decipher hieroglypics, design your personal amulet and will get fingers on to provide children an opportunity to know what historic Egyptians might need used to make their very own artistic works.
Prebooking is really helpful. Tickets value £10 for adults and kids aged 4+, concessions out there.
Try my assessment of Making Egypt to search out out extra about what’s
Secrets and techniques of the Thames, London Museum Docklands
The primary main exhibition on mudlarking introduces you to the world of treasure looking alongside the Thames, on the London Museum Docklands.
Full of fascinating finds from the Thames foreshore, the place hundreds of years of London’s historical past remains to be being uncovered, the shows embody a Tudor knitted wool hat, in addition to a medieval gold ring, a adorned Viking-era dagger and even a pair of 18th century false enamel.
There are some extra nice actions going down on the London Museum Docklands this summer time holidays for youths, together with the Massive Dig – excellent for budding archaeologists – and the Nice Hearth of London household present. Varied dates from July 20-August 31, prebooking really helpful (some free, or a small price for some actions)
There are tales of London’s lengthy historical past, informed by means of the objects discovered, in addition to an interesting glimpse into the world of mudlarking – now far more strictly managed. You possibly can even see how good you’re at recognizing objects hidden in a reproduction of the Thames foreshore (look however don’t contact!)
Secrets and techniques of the Thames: Mudlarking London’s misplaced treasures runs till March 1, 2026. Tickets value from £16, museum entry free.
Try my full assessment of a go to to Secrets and techniques of the Thames on the London Museum Docklands
Rail adventures on the London Transport Museum
The London Transport Museum is celebrating 200 years of railways this summer time, with a string of household actions to assist mark the anniversary.
From the primary underground railway to the opening of the Elizabeth Line, there’s an opportunity to search out out extra about a few of the key milestones in London’s railway’s historical past in addition to studying the tales of people that have made them doable.
You’ll discover family-friendly workshops, crafts and storytelling periods on the museum this summer time in London for youths, in addition to the standard transport points of interest. Runs day by day from July 23 till August 31, included in museum entry.
Get a reduction on entry to the London Transport Museum when you guide by way of tiqets utilizing my code, MUMMYTRAVELS6.
Taskmaster and jousting at Eltham Palace and Gardens
Should you’re followers of TV’s Taskmaster, don’t miss a go to to Eltham Palace in London this summer time with children, with a sequence of foolish challenges for households to take pleasure in from July 19 to August 31.
When you’ve collected your Taskmaster rating card and accomplished the duties (holding an eye fixed out for a rubber duck or two alongside the way in which), you’ll be able to accumulate a reward and have fun your silliness with some selfies within the ending zone.
In case you’re hoping for the total TV expertise, Alex and the Taskmaster group gained’t be doing the duties alongside you, however that does go away you in cost. Thrilling.
There’s additionally an opportunity to make use of your creativeness to construct your personal play construction in Eltham Palace’s stunning gardens, in addition to watching the legendary joust on August 2-3
Free for members or non-members can get discounted entry when you guide on-line prematurely – walk-up tickets could also be out there on the day as effectively although.
Pirates on the Nationwide Maritime Museum
Uncover the reality behind pirate life on the Nationwide Maritime Museum in Greenwich with its newest exhibition Pirates.
Really helpful for ages 10+, it appears to be like on the altering depictions of pirates by means of the ages, from comical characters like Captain Pugwash and Captain Hook to anti-heroes like Lengthy John Silver and Captain Jack Sparrow – in addition to the brutal actuality behind the fiction.
Removed from swashbuckling scoundrels, the actual historical past is way extra advanced… however continues to fascinate us to at the present time. The exhibition follows the worldwide historical past of piracy internationally, with a give attention to some real-life pirates and the way trendy piracy is a matter for seafarers at present.
Runs to January 4, 2026, priced £7.50 for youngsters, £15 for adults.
For extra concepts of issues to do in Greenwich with children, take a look at my prime picks
South Asia Heritage Month on the V&A
As a part of South Asia Heritage Month, there’s a free workshop on July 30-31 on the V&A in South Kensington this summer time.
Geared toward children aged 5+, there’s a short introduction to printmaking, exhibiting households the right way to create vibrant artworks utilizing hand-carved woodblocks. Free, drop-in periods between 11am and 4pm, though numbers are restricted so arriving early is an efficient plan – as is sporting clothes that you simply don’t thoughts getting a bit inky.
Or take a look at the Make It: Celebration Equipment workshops on July 12 and August 9 , utilizing ribbons and balloons to make jewelry and equipment – tickets value £20 for one grownup and one youngster pair, with workshops at 10.30 really helpful for ages 5-7, at 1pm for ages 8-10 and 5pm for ages 11-13.
Summer season Household Pageant on the Nationwide Portrait Gallery
The Nationwide Portrait Gallery has its Summer season Household Pageant occasions operating throughout August, with every week of artistic actions and household enjoyable.
There are a string of workshops going down all through the Gallery and Studying Centre the place you’ll be able to tackle something from collage and 3D paper sculpting to portray, drawing, zine making and images to create your personal distinctive artworks to take residence.
Working from August 4-8, the drop-in periods are free and appropriate for ages 3+ – restricted numbers, first-come first-served.
As a bonus, it’s one of many London points of interest with air con if it is advisable calm down
Triwizard Event at Warner Bros Studio tour
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Hearth is celebrating its twentieth Anniversary this 12 months, with the Triwizard Event taking centre stage on the Warner Bros Studio tour.
There’s an opportunity to find how filmmakers introduced the action-packed scenes from the Triwizard Event to life, in addition to uncover new behind-the-scenes secrets and techniques.
Runs till September 8, together with the standard points of interest, from using broomsticks to consuming butterbeer, recognizing the Hogwarts Specific, strolling into the Forbidden Forest, watching a dragon rampage by means of Gringotts financial institution and assembly different magical creatures.
Get extra ideas for visiting Harry Potter studio tour with children together with the right way to discover last-minute tickets, whereas you may also guide tickets with a coach switch right here or direct by way of Golden Excursions.
Jurassic World: The Expertise
Who needs to return reality to face with dinosaurs this summer time? The model new Jurassic World: The Expertise helps you to step contained in the world of the film franchise to come across lifesize brachiosaurus and velociraptors, in addition to Tyrannosaurus rex.
Alongside the way in which, you’ll be able to study extra in regards to the completely different species which inhabit Jurassic World, meet child dinosaurs within the Creation Lab and are available head to head with a velociraptor.
Whether or not your children are followers of the movies or simply followers of dinosaurs, the hour-long expertise is a fearsomely good day trip. Discover it at NEON at Battersea Energy Station.
Need extra dinosaurs? Head to The Misplaced World in Beddington Park, Sutton, the place you’ll be able to see greater than 50 animatronic dinosaurs
Voices of Resistance: Slavery and Submit within the Caribbean on the Postal Museum
There’s one other likelihood to see the brand new exhibition on the Postal Museum, Voices of Resistance: Slavery and Submit within the Caribbean.
The exhibition appears to be like on the tales of enslaved individuals who enabled nineteenth century postal ships to hold mail between the UK and Caribbean, with authentic letters despatched between plantation house owners and managers from the museum’s archive.
Serving to to shine a light-weight on the lives of enslaved folks within the Caribbean, in addition to a few of their acts of resistance, and a particular take a look at these residing on the island of St Thomas, a refuelling cease on the route, that is one thing to get children considering.
Included within the normal museum ticket – get a reduction when you guide by means of my hyperlink utilizing the code MUMMYTRAVELS6.
Summer season of enjoyable ‘n’ flight on the Royal Air Drive Museum
The RAF Museum in north London has six weeks of artistic challenges and fingers on enjoyable as a part of its Summer season of enjoyable ‘n’ flight this summer time in London.
Working on chosen dates from July 23 till August 31, you’ll be able to attempt all the pieces from piloting remote-control helicopters to becoming a member of Lego builds and Prime Trumps battles in the course of the summer time.
Actions value between £5 and £7.50, with choices appropriate for ages 4+ (a pair are solely really helpful for ages 6+). Have to be prebooked – verify the museum schedule for extra data, dates and the right way to guide tickets.
The Robotic Zoo on the Horniman Museum
The brand new exhibition on the Horniman Museum in south east London focuses on the mechanisms which give animals some superb skills.
all the pieces from how chameleons change color to how bats see at night time and the way grasshoppers can leap so excessive, the Robotic Zoo exhibition contains creatures recreated utilizing machine elements and devices to let guests perceive animals’ unbelievable skills.
Add in loads of interactive enjoyable too, together with the possibility to attempt jet-propelled squid racing and taking pictures a chameleon’s ‘tongue gun’ so there’s a lot to entertain youthful youngsters in London throughout Might half-term.
Runs to November 5, further tickets are required and prebooking is strongly really helpful. Costs begin from £9.75 for adults, £6.50 for youths, with household tickets additionally out there.
The museum’s pure historical past gallery is briefly closed however the aquarium, butterfly home and gardens are additionally open to discover.
Story Explorers on the British Library
Set off on a journey by means of imaginary worlds on the British Library this summer time, the place you’ll be able to dicsover there’s extra than simply books – not least an enormous furry octopus!
Story Explorers is aimed toward children aged 2-9, with an opportunity to find three imaginary worlds which take a look at a few of the Library’s weirdest and most great objects up shut, and listen to their tales.
Free however should be prebooked, with customer numbers capped at 30 – you’ll have 90 minutes to discover the gallery (arrive/go away any time throughout that slot), as you discover the worlds of house, the jungle and dive beneath the ocean. There’s additionally an exercise path and a few enjoyable interactive components.
Plus, naturally, a guide nook if you wish to sit and chill out. Runs till January 18, 2026.
Craft workshops on the Foundling Museum
There are some nice artistic household workshops on the Foundling Museum this half-term, with a string of enjoyable crafts serving to children study extra about how Foundling youngsters performed in comparison with how we play now.
All of the workshops are aimed toward children aged 5-12, with many led by skilled artists, priced £10 for an grownup and youngster (£5 for every further youngster or adults) together with entry to the museum. Reserving is crucial with restricted numbers and two periods per day, from 11am-1pm and 2-4pm.
The workshops together with Felted Desires on July 29, making a felt scene impressed by the park close by, adopted by Animate Playtime on July 30, bringing tales to life in stop-motion animation, then Cloth Buddies on July 31 making a rag doll or just toy, and Sport Staff on Auguts 1, designing your personal board recreation.
Household occasions at Westminster Abbey
Step inside certainly one of London’s most well-known landmarks this summer time with household excursions and actions at Westminster Abbey.
Be a part of the Stars and Planets days on July 29 and 31 to uncover the fascinating hyperlinks between Westminster Abbey and the universe, together with the tales of scientists buried within the Abbey who’ve helped reveal the secrets and techniques of house and the celebrities.
Or be part of the Covert & Categorised days on August 12 and 14 to study extra about spies, and try to crack clues in addition to discovering the tales of historic spies.
The summer time enjoyable finishes with Wild Westminster on August 26-28, the place you’ll discover the crops and creatures of the abbey’s walled backyard, the place wildlife has flourished for over 900 years.
All occasions are free and happen within the School Backyard between 10am and 1pm, reserving out there from July 9
Doesn’t embody entry to the Abbey itself – tickets may be prebooked right here.together with a reduction when you guide by means of my hyperlink utilizing the code MUMMYTRAVELS6.
Meet the characters on the Cutty Sark in Greenwich
Households can meet vibrant character actors from the long-lasting Cutty Sark’s previous in Greenwich this summer time.
You would come throughout everybody from the ship’s builder to its cook dinner, the witch who impressed the Cutty Sark’s title and the mom of one of many apprentices on board, with roaming encounters from 10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-3.30pm, and a few static performances within the Dry Berth at 11.30am and a pair of.30pm.
There’s a reduction on tickets for the Cutty Sark when you guide by means of my hyperlink utilizing code MUMMYTRAVELS6
Household actions at HMS Belfast
For extra nautical enjoyable this summer time, head to the HMS Belfast for a complete host of household actions, together with an opportunity to identify the Morse Mice who’re after the crew’s jobs.
When you’ve discovered every one dotted across the ship, are you able to full the naval badge for every job they’ve their paws on?
Plus don’t miss HMS Belfast’s devoted household days each Friday in August. These occasions welcome some particular company who will draw upon their private experiences at sea to fascinate infant with their superb tales.
Prebooking suggested – get a reduction when you guide by means of my hyperlink utilizing the code MUMMYTRAVELS6.
Household trails at Imperial Battle Museum
Comply with the Story Seekers path at IWM London in the course of the summer time holidays in London, and uncover a number of of the real-life tales behind the reveals within the museum
From survival at sea to astonishing acts of bravery, study in regards to the folks behind the objects and the extraordinary circumstances they discovered themselves in.
Then add your personal mark by folding an ornamental origami dove or crane from paper within the Clore Studying Centre (July 26-August 25) so as to add to the show marking 80 years because the finish of the Second World Battle, out there to view from August 27-September 2.
Or from July 26 to September 2, there’s a ‘Crack the Code’ path, serving to Second World Battle veteran Bernard to make his approach residence, with an opportunity to search out out extra about VE Day and VJ Day, in addition to rationing.
Included in entry, which is free – prebooking free museum entry is really helpful, as you might have to queue in any other case at busy occasions.
Hooves and Horses on the Royal Mews
There are some enjoyable household actions on the Royal Mews this summer time in London, impressed by the horses and carriages housed within the mews.
Further crafts periods happen from 10.30am to 3pm on July 26, on a drop-in foundation and are included within the worth of admission, with watercolour portray as one possibility this summer time.
Plus you may also see a few of the historic carriages utilized by the Royal Household, together with the 260-year-old Gold State Coach, which took the King and Queen again to Buckingham Palace from Westminster Abbey after the Coronation, children can sit in a reproduction carriage, tack up a picket pony and gown up in livery.
State rooms at Buckingham Palace
Should you’re fascinated by the royal household, the place else do you have to begin than the monarch’s personal official residence? Whereas you will get a glimpse of the outside of Buckingham Palace year-round, you’ll be able to solely enterprise indoors for a 10-week interval with the State Rooms opening on July 10 (till September 28).
In addition to seeing the Ballroom and White Drawing Room, you’ll be able to go to the Throne Room – though the probabilities are, the king gained’t be in residence (to verify, take a peek on the flagpole earlier than you go in: if it’s flying the Royal Customary, Charles III is at residence but when it’s the Union Flag, he’s at present elsewhere).
The Palace gardens are additionally open in the course of the summer time months, whereas the King’s Gallery can be open year-round (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays) – prebook tickets right here.
Try my ideas for visiting Buckingham Palace with children
Pictograms at Japan Home
The place would we be with out pictograms? We use them day-after-day – emoji is even a Japanese phrase – and so they’ve made journey simpler, used on all the pieces from road indicators to bathroom doorways.
With pictograms used for the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Video games, this specific model of Japanese design has change into a part of on a regular basis life. And the brand new exhibition at Japan Home appears to be like at all the pieces from how their design has developed, to different societies equivalent to the traditional Egyptians who communicated in footage.
There’s additionally an opportunity to create your personal image and transfer amongst large pictograms – standing beneath a 2.5-metre torii shrine gate, sizing as much as a sumo wrestler and even taking the controls of a Japanese prepare – in addition to seeing how younger folks within the UK selected to symbolize their London in graphic type. Runs from July 30, free however reserving really helpful.
Shakespeare’s Globe Household Workshops
For an interactive and academic method to get your children within the works of William Shakespeare, be part of the Globe’s Household Workshops this summer time holidays in London.
Led by a few of the theatre’s gifted actors, lecturers, and administrators, these sensible workshops will discover the language, characters, and themes of the performs in quite a lot of partaking actions and video games.
And with actions equivalent to household sword-fighting demonstrations on the invoice too, they’re the right method to introduce children to one of many world’s most iconic playwrights.
Targeted round Macbeth this summer time, there are alternatives for 2 completely different age teams (5-8 and 9/11), so it’s straightforward to tailor to your children.
Summer season of sustainability on the Brunel Museum
There’s a model new path this summer time on the Brunel Museum in Rotherhithe, as a part of the Summer season of Sustainability actions.
Designed to assist guests discover the museum and its environment, you’ll discover fascinating tales from the previous and find out how merely actions may also help shield the planet.
Should you return your path to a member of workers while you’ve completed, you’ll additionally get a free bag of wildflower seeds.
Discovery days on the Royal Parks
The ever-popular discovery days return to the Royal Parks this summer time for a few of the finest free actions in the course of the faculty summer time holidays in London.
Head to Hyde Park for Meadow Insanity on the Studying Centre on August 5-7, to study extra in regards to the minibeasts residing within the park’s meadow, check out several types of seed dispersal and smash crops to create a print from their pure dyes.
Or on August 12-14, the actions are themed round Peter Pan – tackle a pirate orienteering problem, make your personal nest boat and experiment with catapults.
There’s additionally Wild about Water on August 17-19, together with pond dipping and a few frog and toad origami. Drop-in periods for all three weeks run from 11am and 3pm, locations may be reserved on-line free of charge.
There are additionally Nature roadshows at seven royal parks on dates between July 30 and August 21 with scavenger trails, crafts and free actions from 11am to 3pm
Dragonfly Pageant at WWT London
Be a part of the Dragonfly Pageant on the London Wetland Centre in Barnes this summer time, with occasions and household actions operating from June 21 till September 22.
There’s an opportunity to hitch the Dragonfly foot safari day-after-day, in addition to testing the Macro images exhibition, plus pond dipping, chalk artwork and mini beast looking at weekends.
In the course of the faculty holidays, there are additionally a string of different enjoyable occasions, together with storytelling periods, dragonfly-themed artistic workshops, dragonfly cellular making, ending with dragonfly stilt walkers and performances from the Insect Circus on August financial institution vacation weekeend.
Included in entry – tickets may be prebooked on-line but it surely’s not important.
The brand new Splash Pad can be because of open in time for summer time, together with the present play areas
Horrible Histories path at Osterley Home and Park
The Beautiful Georgians are nonetheless to be discovered at Osterley Home and Park in west London, with the family-friendly interactive path round the home, graden and parklands.
Uncover extra in regards to the quirks and scandals of Georgian historical past whereas exploring the elegant Georgian manor home, with video games, actions and the standard gruesomely entertaining info alongside the way in which – look out for posh potties and horrible highwaymen alongside the way in which.
Runs to August 31, included with admission to the Nationwide Belief property (free for members).
Household workshops at Chelsea Physic Backyard
The favored household chocolate workshop is again at Chelsea Physic Backyard this summer time in London, in addition to a string of different enjoyable household actions.
Appropriate for youngsters 5+, the workshop will train them how cacao beans develop and the way they’re made into chocolate, in addition to letting children design their very own chocolate treats with a choice of herbs, flavourings, and spices. Runs on July 22 and 31, plus August 19, 21 and 28.
Or head to the Household Bees and Bugs Exploration on July 12 or attempt your hand at Household Cleaning soap Making on August 5, plus different actions together with portray and pond dipping. Have to be prebooked, ticket costs differ.
Summer season Splash at Royal Docks
Head to the seaside with out leaving the capital this summer time with Summer season Splash at Royal Docks in east London from June to September.
The occasion sees the Royal Docks kitted out with massive sandpits, deck chairs, pop-up cafes and bars, and devoted swimming areas. Seize your swimwear and a bucket and spade, and spend a enjoyable household day trip swimming within the lido and constructing sandcastles proper within the coronary heart of the town.
You’ll additionally discover a sequence of different occasions going down on the Royal Docks over the college holidays, together with a brand new artwork installations on The Line public artwork path. With a lot occurring, it’s an excellent vacation spot for a enjoyable household day trip in London this summer time.
The Kaleidoscope Pageant at Ally Pally
The famed summer time festivals at Alexandra Palace are all the time excellent for your complete household – and this 12 months, there’s a lot to tempt you out to north London.
The Kaleidoscope Pageant takes place on Saturday July 12 and contains a packed schedule of dwell bands, DJs, comedians, and extra.
For households, you’ll discover loads of enjoyable actions and mini-parties for the little ones too, together with magicians, video games, arts and crafts, and foolish science reveals too.
The Kensington and Chelsea Pageant, which usually runs throughout July and August, is not going to happen in 2025
Sculpture within the Metropolis
The annual Sculpture within the Metropolis competition is again on July 16, with artworks by Ai Weiwei, Andrew Sabin, and Jane and Louise Wilson amongst these occurring show within the Metropolis of London, turning the streets into an open-air gallery.
This 12 months’s additions will be part of six works from earlier years, together with two everlasting acquisitions. Earlier years have additionally featured household trails, together with interactive artworks and others linked to the native environment. This 12 months’s particulars nonetheless to be introduced.
LEGO playtime on the Serpentine Galleries Play Pavilion
Head to the Serpentine in Kensington Gardens earlier than August 10 and also you’ll discover a enjoyable new public artwork challenge at Play Pavilion by Serpentine South,
Designed to permit youngsters and households to construct and picture, there’s a string of hands-on workshops and play periods that are free to attend. It’s not only for youthful children both, with an opportunity to design brick-based album covers and summary artowkr, alongside constructing challenges.
There’s a free Household Day going down on July 19 too. Some occasions should be booked however you may also flip up and begin constructing (numbers allowing).
Summer season by the River at London Bridge Metropolis
Head right down to the riverside between London Bridge and Tower Bridge to take a look at a few of the summer time occasions going down as a part of London’s largest free out of doors competition.
Summer season by the River runs till August 31, with a string of additional occasions, from out of doors cinema together with Despicable Me 4 and Moana 2, to an opportunity to see a few of the summer time’s finest sport exhibiting at The Scoop.
Look out for pop-up bars and meals in the course of the summer time months too, plus an adaptation of Alice in Wonderland additionally going down at The Scoop on July 24.
Youngsters week theatre offers
Should you wanted any additional excuse to go to the theatre in the course of the faculty holidays in London with children, the particular Youngsters Week reductions are the right temptation to guide.
Not masking only a week, Youngsters Week features a entire month of theatre offers the place children can see a few of London’s prime reveals and family-friendly performances free of charge.
In addition to one youngster beneath 17 getting in free per paying grownup, two extra children may also get half-price charges – and whereas lots of the finest tickets get snapped up as quickly as they go on sale in June, there are nonetheless offers out there all through July and August itself.
This 12 months, reveals embody Again to The Future, Julia Donaldson’s The Baddies, Clueless, Come Alive, The Tiger Who Got here to Tea, Horrible Histories: Barmy Brits, Six and Depraved amongst others Click on to guide and to take a look at the youngsters eat free reductions additionally out there in August.
For extra concepts on saving cash on days out in London with children this summer time, take a look at my prime ideas
The Monumental Crocodile at Regent’s Park Open-Air Theatre
Roald Dahl’s story of The Monumental Crocodile is again at Regent’s Park Open-Air Theatre as a mischievous musical, telling the story of the beastly, grasping crocodile who fancies a pleasant juicy little youngster for lunch.
Can the opposite jungle creatures foil his secret plans and intelligent tough? Count on puppet, catchy tunes and loads of laughs alongside the way in which. From August 15-September 7.
Older children can even love the variation of Malorie Blackman’s Noughts and Crosses, a narrative of teenage love in a divided world, which runs till July 26
Household theatre on the Polka Theatre
There are a number of pretty child-friendly reveals on the Polka Theatre in Wimbledon this summer time, together with choices for the littlest theatregoers.
I would like my hat again is aimed toward age 3-8, combining the trilogy of books by Jon Klassen in regards to the bear who has misplaced his hat (or has he?), the fish who steals a hat and the 2 turtles who discover a hat… however can’t resolve who will get it. The 40-minute present runs from July 9 – August 10.
In the meantime Counting Sheeps is for ages 0-3 – a musical journey stuffed with sensory play about two sheep who assume they’re specialists about sleep… however are conscious tonight. The 45-minute present runs from August 13-24.
And for barely older children, The Boy with Wings is for age 7-12. When Tunde sprouts wings and discovers his father is a ferocious alien warrior, he’s all that stands between the galaxy and complete destruction – and he’s nonetheless obtained homework to do. Runs from June 21 to August 16.
Household theatre on the Arts Depot
There are extra nice household performances on the Arts Depot in North London, together with a stunning manufacturing for youthful theatre-goers this summer time holidays in London.
Spot’s Birthday Celebration is aimed toward children aged 2+, with songs, dancing, occasion video games and built-in Makaton. The present lasts for 50 minutes and runs from July 29-31 – some ready for a really enjoyable occasion!
Little Angel Theatre Kids’s Puppet Pageant
The Little Angel Theatre Kids’s Puppet Pageant is again once more this summer time, operating from August 8-August 31, with reveals for various age teams together with preschoolers and first faculty age children.
The competition in Islington, north London is designed to showcase a complete vary of various puppetry types, in addition to some additional workshops and household occasions.
Try Hickory Dickory Dock, aimed toward age 3-8 – dubbed a slapstick glove puppet journey with some nice music. In the meantime, Make You LOL, for age 5-11 guarantees puppets, clowning, alien assaults, toilet-paper weapons and probably the most disgusting pair of pants you’ve ever seen in a bid to have you ever crying with laughter.
However there are additionally choices for age 2+, musicals, and magical tales to call only a few! Try the entire line-up.
Open-air theatre in the course of the summer time holidays in London
In addition to the West Finish productions, summer time all the time sees a string of traditional and trendy youngsters’s tales tailored for the stage and carried out out within the open air – an effective way to introduce youthful children to the theatre.
The Wizard of Oz at Chelsea Physic Backyard
Get able to tumble down the yellow brick street, as a part of an interactive out of doors journey from the Wild Immersive Theatre Firm with The Wizard of Oz on the Chelsea Physic Backyard.
Be a part of Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion because the enterprise by means of the gardens on their quest to fulfill the Wizard. Takes place on August 13, 15 and 17 with one-hour performances each 20 minutes between 10am and 11.40am. Have to be prebooked.
Alice in Wonderland at Kew Gardens
This household favorite has singalong songs, dance and loads of viewers participation as you fall down the rabbit gap with Alice at Kew Gardens.
Meet a few of your favorite characters from the eternally late White Rabbit to the Dodo, the Cheshire Cat and the Mad Hatter at his tea occasion. Takes place at Tulip Tree Avenue, not removed from the lake, on choose dates from July 19 to August 31, with performances at 11am and a pair of.30pm on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturday, at 11am solely on Thursdays and Sundays. Consists of backyard entry.
It’s also possible to see The Dream Fairies – Adventures to Bubble Land which brings collectively Tinkerbell and the fairies from A Midsummer Evening’s Dream, with the viewers inspired to decorate up as they assist the fairies discover Tinkerbell’s misplaced wing. Chosen dates from July 18-August 31
Open-air theatre at Morden Corridor Park
There’s not one however two family-friendly open-air theatre performances on at Morden Corridor Park this 12 months (the place we beforehand watched a incredible manufacturing of the Jungle Ebook).
This summer time’s reveals embody Wind within the Willows for youthful theatregoers on July 26-27, in addition to Alice By the Trying Glass on August 1 and 5.
Alfresco Arts at Canary Wharf
There are a string of occasions and performances this summer time as a part of Alfresco Arts at Canary Wharf, together with a 30-minute model of The Wind within the Willows on July 12 at Eden Dock.
Catch an open-air film
Swap indoors for open air with a string of household movies on present at London’s open-air cinemas this summer time.
Everyman on the canal
Some of the enjoyable places in London, with seats on grassy steps by the banks of Regent’s Canal close to Granary Sq., King’s Cross. Even higher, the Everyman Cinema competition is free to look at (however unticketed, so ensure you arrive early) – this 12 months’s motion pictures are tbc however there are normally some enjoyable household favourites. From June 30 to August 17.
Vauxhall Summer season Display
Head to Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens between July 8 and 29 for some family-friendly movies, from Aladdin and Jumanji to Imply Women, together with road meals, drinks and popcorn to purchase.
Summer season Seashore Membership at Westfield
Who wants the seaside when Westfield is bringing the seaside to you this summer time, with the Summer season Seashore Membership from July 31-August 13at each Westfield London and Westfield Stratford.
There’ll be immersive video games and interactive zones, in addition to loads of laid-back seaside membership vibes, to not point out some shock pop-ups promised alongside the way in which.
Extra summer time days out in London with children: ongoing
There are some nice actions and exhibitions operating all through the summer time holidays, together with experiences because of finish in September – so seize your final alternative now.
For extra concepts of the most effective issues to do in London with children, take a look at my prime picks, in addition to the most effective locations to maintain cool in London over summer time
Some are nonetheless to be unveiled in September, whereas a few earlier artworks have stayed for this summer time as effectively.
Cruise alongside the Thames
See a few of the largest sights in London from the water, with an excellent deal on Metropolis Cruises boat excursions together with sightseeing excursions and themed cruises.
Try the full set of Thames cruises and experiences to guide.
Horrible Thames boat tour
What do you get while you cross the creators of Horrible Histories with 2,000 years of drama alongside London’s riverbanks? The Horrible Thames cruise, which is operating all through the summer time.
With tales of revolution, beheadings and pirates (and the stomach-turning motive why Queen Victoria’s pleasure cruise lasted solely minutes), you sail from Tower Bridge to Westminster and again by way of Execution Dock, whereas prizewinning school-child Billy (or Billie) and their instructor carry out and supply the commentary.
Try what we considered the Horrible Histories boat tour
Titanic: Echoes from the Previous
If the sinking of the Titanic fascinates you, there’s an opportunity to expertise it nearly first-hand with the subsequent VR immersive exhibition, Titanic: Echoes from the Previous in Camden.
The expertise mixes storytelling sharing the human tales behind the tragedy, reconstructions and historic reality to take you on a journey by means of the historical past of the well-known ship.
Together with your VR headset on, you’ll dive 3,800m to the Atlantic ocean flooring to witness the wreck, get well the misplaced movie reels shot on the voyage by the Titanic’s official filmmaker, permitting you to expertise key moments and areas aboard ship – the closest you’ll be able to presumably get to wandering the boat deck or stepping onto the ship’s Grand Staircase.
Appropriate for youths aged 8+, the expertise lasts 45 minutes.
Can’t get sufficient Titanic? The Legend of the TITANIC: The Immersive Exhibition takes you on a two-hour journey by means of 13 expansive rooms to convey the doomed ship to life at Canada Water
Minecraft Expertise
In case your children are Minecraft followers, there’s lastly an opportunity to expertise it in the actual world, with the brand new immersive journey in London.
Minecraft Expertise: Villager Rescue helps you to follow your Minecrafting abilities in addition to exploring seven Minecraft rooms, then tackle completely different challenges in your quest to avoid wasting villagers from a zombie assault.
Plus, after all, loads of alternative to choose up a lot of Minecraft merch. At present reserving till the tip of August, at Nook Nook in Surrey Quays.
Moco Museum
Uncover the world of recent and modern artwork at Moco Museum close to Marble Arch, with collections that includes everybody from Picasso and Warhol to Banksy, Keith Haring, Damien Hirst, Tracey Emin and many extra.
Full of vibrant and thought-provoking items, there’s additionally loads of data to introduce children (and adults!) to a few of the largest names within the artwork world over the previous 5 many years. Finest for tweens and teenagers.
Try my full assessment of a go to to Moco Museum with children
The Paddington Bear Expertise
Paddington followers ought to pack their marmalade sandwiches as they head to the Paddington Bear Expertise within the County Corridor constructing on London’s South Financial institution.
The immersive expertise opened travels by means of London to assist Paddington and the Browns put together for the Marmalade Day competition. Visiting Paddington Station, Windsor Gardens and even Darkest Peru, there’ll be a lot of interactive enjoyable for youths.
The expertise lasts round 70 minutes, with additional time to benefit from the Marmalade Day celebrations, in addition to visiting Mr Gruber’s store – or a variation on it! – to choose up some souvenirs.
Escape from the Golden Hinde
Head aboard The Golden Hinde – the duplicate of Sir Francis Drake’s ship on the Thames close to London Bridge – for an escape room with a distinction.
Escape from The Golden Hinde introduces you to the 2 histories of the ship – the unique one which sailed in 1577, and the reconstruction constructed within the Nineteen Seventies. Gamers have an hour to unravel the puzzles, with half-term periods on Might 24 and 29. Geared toward children aged 10+ though youthful ages may also participate.
Try my assessment of Escape from the Golden Hinde
Bubble Planet
Head to Wembley for one of the crucial enjoyable actions in London this summer time holidays, at Bubble Planet.
Within the immersive expertise, now prolonged to the tip of July, you’ll move by means of themed rooms, fantastical landscapes and even attempt a sizzling air balloon flight simulator, in addition to utilizing VR know-how to take you to a different planet – with all 10 rooms having the frequent theme of bubbles.
For extra issues to do at Wembley Park with children, take a look at my prime picks
Twist Museum of Illusions
There are some new reveals becoming a member of the illusions at Twist Museum – excellent for a wet day in the course of the summer time holidays in London with children (or a sunny one for that matter).
With over 60 reveals exhibiting completely different illusions and shows to trick all of your completely different senses, the interactive expertise is enjoyable for all ages.
Try our assessment of a go to to Twist Museum London with children
Frameless
The UK’s largest, everlasting digital artwork exhibition in Marble Arch, Frameless lets children – and massive children – expertise artworks like by no means earlier than.
Set inside a 30,000 sq. foot house, with 4 separate galleries, guests can uncover key moments in artwork historical past, with state-of-the-art projection and movement sensor know-how to convey to life work from artists together with Cezanne, Kandinsky, Monet, Canaletto, Rembrandt and Klimt.
Paradox Museum
There nonetheless likelihood to defy gravity and play with the boundaries of house at Paradox Museum London, with tickets at present out there to September.
The museum guarantees to take you into an inexplicable and extraordinary world, the place nothing appears logical – anticipate all the pieces from optical illusions to difficult paradoxes.
Excellent for youths who’re curious in regards to the world – and a number of enjoyable for the entire household. Visits final round 90 minutes, and Paradox Museum is predicated at 90 Brompton Street. Free for youths beneath 4.
For concepts of extra issues to do close by in South Kensington, take a look at my prime picks
The Crystal Maze LIVE Expertise
One of many latest family-friendly points of interest round Leicester Sq. is the exhilarating Crystal Maze LIVE Expertise.
Whereas dad and mom reminisce in regards to the well-known 90s TV present, children over the age of 9 will take pleasure in operating across the completely different themed zones with an amusing host, fixing mysteries and dealing with a sequence of psychological and bodily challenges to win the coveted crystals.
As soon as the entire challenges are full, your loved ones will head inside the long-lasting Crystal Dome itself to seize tokens which can be being whooshed round your head by sturdy followers. The final word enjoyable family-bonding expertise?
For extra issues to do round Leicester Sq. with children, take a look at my prime picks
The Tower Bridge Cat guide path
The Tower Bridge cat interactive path by means of the Tower Bridge exhibition might be operating day by day throughout Might half-term, letting you wander within the pawprints of Tower Bridge Cat Bella.
There’s additionally the possibility to stroll on the well-known glass flooring of the higher stage as you take in the views, and head into the engine room of London’s most well-known bridge. Hold an eye fixed out for the particular household craft periods which regularly happen throughout faculty holidays too.
Prebooking tickets is really helpful, and you may also purchase all of the Tower Bridge Cat books right here, together with an ABC journey that’s excellent for toddlers and pre-schoolers and tales for main faculty age children to take pleasure in.
For extra issues to do round Tower Bridge with children, take a look at my prime picks
Comply with a Treasure Map Path
These pretty vibrant treasure hunt-style maps embody three routes in central London – and there’s 10% off is you employ the code MUMMYTRAVELS.
A enjoyable method to discover London with children, the hunts problem you to identify all types of quirky sights, from indicators and statues to carvings, all enlivened with a enjoyable fantasy design to remodel the actual life streets.
Disclosure: This publish accommodates affiliate hyperlinks – any purchases you make are unaffected however I’ll obtain a small fee – and paid promotion. All opinions stay my very own.
Photos: Metropolis Cruises courtesy Metropolis Experiences; Foundling Museum courtesy of the Foundling Museum; London Metropolis Corridor courtesy London Bridge Metropolis; Puppet present courtesy Little Angel Theatre; Westminster Abbey/HMS Belfast/Eltham Palace/Globe Theatre/ Theatre signal/Tower Bridge/Buckingham Palace/seaside scene courtesy of Depositphotos; Alexandra Palace by way of Picfair; all others copyright MummyTravels
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