38 Things To Do With Kids This Summer
London is bursting at the seams with activities to keep the little ones entertained these summer holidays, and it’ll give you the chance to explore the best of the city. Read on for our edit of the best things to do with kids this summer, from charming musicals to afternoon teas and fun bus tours.
Toddlers
Battersea Power Station’s Lift 109
Rise to new heights this summer and treat the family to breathtaking 360-degree views from 109 metres up! Your adventure begins in the magnificent Art Deco Turbine Hall A, where you’ll discover the fascinating history of this iconic power station through original records and captivating displays.
Then step into the spectacular circular glass elevator as constellations of light guide your ascent up the north-west chimney to reveal London’s most panoramic vista. It’s a thrilling experience that’ll have the kids (and adults!) glued to the windows.
where: Level 1, Turbine Hall A, The Power Station
website: www.lift109.co.uk
Lighterman x The Lightroom: Prehistoric Planet
Journey back in time with an exciting partnership between Lighterman and The Lightroom in King’s Cross. The immersive ‘Prehistoric Planet: Discovering Dinosaurs’ show launches in July, bringing prehistoric creatures to life through cutting-edge technology and stunning visuals.
Plus, families can enjoy Kids Eat Free at Lighterman with every adult main course purchased when you show your Lightroom ticket for this specific show.
Where: 12 Lewis Cubitt Square, London, N1C 4DY
Website: 9 July – 2 Nov
Website: www.lightroom.uk
Hampton Court Palace’s The Magic Garden
London may be filled with some golden spots for children, but venture a little further out one day this summer holiday and explore the best of Hampton Court Palace’s Magic Garden.
After you’ve finished exploring the palace and picnicking in the grounds, let your imaginations come to life at the Hampton Court Palace in its Magic Garden as your children explore and play in the castle-inspired play area. You’ll come face to face with mythical beasts and battle for victory against the menacing dragon…
WherE: Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU
Website: www.hrp.org.uk
Sharky & George’s Holiday Camp
Children’s events organisers, Sharky & George team have announced that their Holiday Camp will be returning, helping to keep the kiddies entertained during the school holidays. The activity club will be held at The Parsons Green Club, and in true Sharky & George style, you can expect a whole load of fashion shows, chocolate making and whacky science experiments, perfect for children aged 5-10.
Expect a whole load of fashion shows, chocolate making and whacky science experiments
When: 7 July – 2 Sept
WherE: The Parsons Green Club
Website: www.sharkyandgeorge.com
Power Up, Science Museum
Connect with your little ones over your shared love of games. The Science Museum’s exhibition dedicated to our fascination with gaming is the place to be.
From Pong to Pacman, Minecraft to Mario, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the best video games and consoles from the past 50 years. Rediscover your old favourites, uncover new highlights and battle one another in an epic game-off.
Where: Exhibition Road, South Kensington, SW7 2DD
Website: www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
Sixes Social Cricket Club
Fancy a spot of cricket? Let your kids perfect the art of batting this summer at Sixes Cricket Club, the only venue in London that provides guests a place to play cricket and dine.
The Sixes Cricket Simulator, styled as batting nets, draws on the style of Top Golf, Flight Club and Puttshack, and takes the immersive experience and the famed sport to new heights.
wherE: Various locations
Website:www.sixescricket.com
Wicked
Perfect for slightly old children, Wicked is London’s favourite witch-centred narrative on the West End.
See the story of Oz get turned on its head, as we see the story from the witch’s perspective. Follow as an unlikely friendship between the good witch, Glinda, and the misunderstood ‘green girl’ named Elphaba arises.
For cheap theatre tickets, read our guide to Kid’s Theatre Week here.
Where: Apollo Victoria Theatre, 17 Wilton Road, Pimlico, SW1V 1LG
Website: www.theatreticketsdirect.com
Young V&A
Offering an interactive space for children’s imagination to run free, Young V&A is a free national museum designed to spark creativity.
Formerly the Museum of Childhood, the museum has had an impressive rebrand and transformation. Expect to uncover around 2,000 objects and artifacts from across the V&A collection of art, design and performance. Currently there’s a Taylor Swift themed installation as well as three galleries called Imagine, Play, and Design.
Where: Young V&A, Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA
Website: www.vam.ac.uk
The Tiger Who Came To Tea
Based on the book by Judith Kerr, The Tiger Who Came To Tea returns to the stage this summer. Performances will be held at Theatre Royal Haymarket, and will follow the story of a little girl and her mum, who were holding a little tea party together when a stripy tiger knocks at the door…
Expect all of the chaos, laughter and sing-a-long songs to unfold before your eyes.
When: 14 July to 7 Sept 2025
where: Theatre Royal Haymarket, 18 Suffolk Street, SW1Y 4HT
Website:www.trh.co.uk
Diana Memorial Playground
Ahoy there! Jump aboard the pirate ship at Diana Memorial Playground and channel your inner Peter Pan as you travel the seas to Neverland.
It’s set in the heart of the Diana Memorial Playground and is inspired by Diana’s love for childhood and its innocence. Let your children run wild with their buddies as they explore the sensory trail, ship and teepees.
Channel your inner Peter Pan as you travel the seas to Neverland
where: Broad Walk, Kensington, W2 4RU
Website: www.royalparks.org.uk
Shakespeare’s Globe
There’s always fun to be had at the Shakespeare’s Globe. Suited for slightly older kids, there are plenty of performances to catch this summer.
Choose from Romeo and Juliet, where you’ll follow a classic romantic story in a fresh modern adaptation.
Where: 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, SE1 9DT
Website: www.shakespearesglobe.com
Cutty Sark
Ahoy there me hearties! Cutty Sark is welcoming pirates back on board once more to uncover the history of the fastest clipper.
Don’t miss out on the experience to catch the cast of colourful characters, take a snap on board the ship and see just what the former workers used to get up to.
Throughout the summer holidays, expect special events, from family weekends filled with workshops to the big climb.
where: King William Walk, Greenwich, SE10 8HT
Website: www.rmg.co.uk
Biscuiteers
Put your artistic skills through their paces as you learn the ins and outs at the School of Icing.
From recreating your very own Paddington Bear to trying your hand at icing your best friend, Biscuiteers provides a whole lotta fun for budding artists or just fans of delightful biscuits.
where: NOTTING HILL / Belgravia
WEBSITE:WWW.BISCUITEERS.COM
Paw Patrol Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
Rediscover the wonderful world of Paw Patrol with Bridgit’s Bakery’s new afternoon tea bus tour.
The talented team has created an amazing menu featuring everything from the PAW-fect cheddar cheese sandwich to Marshall’s strawberry tartlet. This is a very cute and memorable activity for the family to do together.
Where: Departs from Northumberland Ave
Website: www.b-bakery.com
Tusk Turtle Trail
African conservation charity Tusk has just launched its exciting new Turtle Trail, which has officially hit the streets across iconic London locations, including Piccadilly Circus and Carnaby Street. The trail is open to the public, offering kids a way to explore London with the family while raising awareness and support for marine conservation across Africa. A specially designed digital map is available for download from the website, guiding visitors from one sculpture to the next.
where: Across London
website: www.tusk.org
Tweens
Battersea Power Station’s Jurassic World Experience
The Jurassic World experience is a seriously cool one to visit especially for kids fascinated with dinosaurs.
Walk beneath a towering Brachiosaurus, explore the lab of genetic development, come face-to-face with the Velociraptor Blue, get a rare up-close look at the Tyrannosaurus Rex, interact with baby dinosaurs, and see actual fossilised dinosaur bones in this immersive experience. It’s perfect for kids of all ages, and of course, adults will love it too.
Where: Battersea Power Station, Circus Rd W, Nine Elms, London SW11 8DD
Website: WWW.batterseapowerstation.co.uk
Gravity MAX at Westfield
This 67,000 square foot entertainment paradise spans three floors and promises non-stop thrills for all ages. Here you can race your way to victory on London’s largest multi-level e-karting track, test your skills at AR Digital Darts, or challenge the family to a round of Coca-Cola Street Golf.
The little ones will love the arcade games and Hyperfloor experience, while older kids can belt out their favourite tunes in The Voice Karaoke booths or dive into virtual reality adventures with Hologate VR.
Where: Westfield Stratford City, Montfichet Road, Olympic Park, E20 1EJ
Website: www.westfield.com
The Wicked Wizard Afternoon Tea
Follow the yellow brick road to the Wicked Wizard of The Franklin Afternoon Tea, where the beloved tale unfolds in an enchanting, fairy-tale experience that sweeps you away from the plains of Kansas to the technicolour wonder of Oz.
On the winding path to the Emerald City, draw courage from the tangy lemon meringue tart of The Lion, embrace your heart with The Tin Man tiramisu, and awaken wisdom with The Scarecrow’s velvety chocolate mousse ice cream. While there’s no place like home, you won’t want to miss this mouth-wateringly charming adventure.
Where: 24 Egerton Gardens, Knightsbridge, London SW3 2DB
Website: www.collezione.starhotels.com
Puttshack
Let’s face it, golfing isn’t exactly the funniest of sports. But, mix it with loops, tricks and quirky holes, and you’ve got yourself an afternoon filled with kid-friendly fun!
The guys at Puttshack have fused space-age technology with the classic game of mini-golf, so even your 15-year-old will (finally) get off Snapchat and join with some family entertainment. So grab your putt and ball, and let the kids versus adults competition begin!
where: White City, Bank & Lakeside
Website: www.puttshack.com
Everyman on the Canal
Sit canal-side and watch a host of films, screenings, and live events on the iconic steps, the best way to embrace the great British summer in style.
New for 2025, Everyman has collaborated with renowned British multidisciplinary artist, designer and ‘architect of joy’, Yinka Ilori MBE, to conceptualise and create a unique screen design inspired by the worlds, journeys and relationships explored in Walt Disney’s films.
where: King’s Cross
website: www.everymancinema.com
London’s Urban Petting Farms
Make a moo-ve as you wander around London’s best farms and zoos. Despite being a city, there are a few places in London that’ll thrust you into the ways of the countryside, even if just for an afternoon, one of these being petting farms.
We’ve compiled a list of London’s best farms, zoos and animally attractions fit for the kids to get outside and experience nature in a whole new way.
Explore London’s Free Museums
Come rain or shine, hitting up one of London’s numerous museums is a guaranteed fun day out for all the family. Long gone are the days of being dragged around looking at old artifacts. Oh no, museums these days are equipped with activities to keep the little’uns fuelled and eager to learn, whether it’s in the Wonderlab at the Science Museum or it’s getting up close and personal with some dinos at the Natural History Museum. The extra bonus? It’s a free day out for all the family. Although the kids will probably want to peruse the gift shops…
Free Minigolf by Craig & Karl
Mini golf never looked so good. Artists Craig Redman and Karl Maier have transformed Montogomery Square once again with a colourful mini golf course.
Completely free to enjoy, get your putts at the ready and settle in for an afternoon filled with fun, laughter and a lot of friendly competition.
When: 6 April – 5 OCT
Where: Montgomery Square, Canary Wharf, E14
Website: www.canarywharf.com
The Original Sweetshop Afternoon Tea
Treat the whole family to a magical afternoon tea experience at The Chesterfield Mayfair, home to the award-winning Original Sweet Shop Afternoon Tea. Inspired by traditional British sweet shops, this playful and colourful tea is perfect for children, with themed treats like Coca-Cola slices, liquorice allsorts cupcakes, and chocolate chip scones. Served in the elegant yet welcoming surroundings of this Mayfair gem, it’s a deliciously fun way to spend an afternoon—and a memorable summer outing for kids and grown-ups alike. Children’s menus are available, making it an ideal choice for family-friendly indulgence. Plus, you can get 15% off when dining with a child through the summer break.
where: 35 Charles Street, Mayfair, W1J 5EB
Website: www.chesterfieldmayfair.com
Try Some Of London’s Best Ice Cream Joints
There’s nothing a kid loves more than a big ol’ scoop of ice cream so when the weather is scorching, venture to one of London’s leading ice cream parlours. Our favourite? The Knickerbocker Glory from Fortnum’s – the ultimate childhood dessert you can’t help but love.
It could even become a bit of a science lesson if you head to London’s first ice cream parlour made using liquid nitrogen, Chin Chin Labs…
Oliver! the Musical
Oliver! is a wonderful production of Lionel Bart’s classic. This play is both moving and entertaining, perfect for a family night out.
The play follows Oliver, an orphan who is wrongfully arrested for stealing. While in holding, he meets someone who changes his life forever. The story is sure to melt your heart and be a welcome addition to any weekend plans.
Where: GIELGUD THEATRe, Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 6AR
Website: Www.oliverthemusical.com/
COME ALIVE!” The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular
For another spectacular summer outing, consider “COME ALIVE!” The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular at the Empress Museum in Earls Court.
This phenomenal show, inspired by The Greatest Showman movie, features incredible West End talent and breathtaking international circus acts performing all your favorite hit songs like “This Is Me” and “A Million Dreams.”
When: 13 JULY – 25 OCT
Where: Empress Museum in Earls Court
Website: www.comealiveshow.com
Teens
Quiz Room
The ultimate experience for families with kids and teens is this cool immersive quiz room in London. Kids can play on their own thanks to Quiz Room Kids – it’s exciting, competitive, educational and super fun.
The ultimate experience for families with kids and teens is this cool immersive quiz room in London.
website: www.quiz-room.co.uk
Tower of London
Explore life as a royal for the day as you uncover 1,000 years’ worth of history at London’s most iconic castle and World Heritage Site. The children will love perusing the luxurious Crown Jewels (who wouldn’t?) and delve into the nooks and crannies of the Tower of London.
where: St Katharine’s & Wapping, EC3N 4AB
Website: www.hrp.org.uk
Beach Holiday
It seems as though we are finally being freed of the dreary rain and cold, and what better way to cap off the summer than at the beach.
Nothing beats cooling off in the ocean and going for ice cream with the family, and some of the best ones are right near London…
What better way to cap off the summer than at the beach
Pick-Your-Own Fruit Farms
There’s nothing quite like biting into a fresh, crisp strawberry. And where better to sample one than at one of the UK’s pick-your-own fruit farms?
This summer holidays, venture a little further afield and you’ll find yourself fulfilling your countryside dreams at a pick-your-own farm. If you need a little inspiration, we’ve rounded up the seven best PYO farms near London, from Parkside Farm to Garsons Esher.
Harry Potter Activities
From WANDSworth to POTTER’S Bar, London is full of Harry Potter, from immersive days out to locations and inspiration. Here are a few of the places you can head to to get the true Potter experience.
Stag Lodge Stables
You won’t want to be galloping around Trafalgar Square, but you can saddle up and see some of London’s quieter sites, such as Richmond Park and Wimbledon Common. Stag Lodge Stables offers riding lessons and courses for kids and adults of all ages from three upwards so you’re bound to be pros by the end of the summer…
where: Robin Hood Gate, Richmond Park, SW15 3RS
Website: www.ridinginlondon.com
London’s Outdoor Swimming Pools
From learning to swim to swimming races against friends, summer is the perfect time to make a splash at one of London’s outdoor swimming spots. From Brockwell Lido to Tooting Bec and Hampstead Heath Ponds, these are the best…
The London Dungeon
It wouldn’t be summer holidays without a visit to The London Dungeon. Take your little gremlins for a spook-tacular quest through the Dungeon, meeting characters from the ‘bad old days’ along the way.
Expect to be spooked, scared and, er, tortured into the day… You’ll meet everyone from a Black Plague doctor to Guy Fawkes, Mrs Lovett’s and her famous pie shop and Sweeney Todd.
Where: Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, SE1 7PB
Website: www.thedungeons.com
Southbank Centre Food Market
If you’ve got a budding foodie or just need somewhere easy to eat and keep the kids happy, the Southbank Centre Food Market is your best friend.
Expect to find a series of independent stallholders boasting delicious foodie offerings, from Asian street food like Pad + Sen to sweet treats from Choco Fruit and Crêpes à la Carte.
Where: Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX
Website: www.southbankcentre.co.uk
Wolloton Hall: Natural History Museum
Wolloton Hall is an iconic staple of Nottingham, and if the fam is keen to make the trip, it will be worth it.
The building consists of several exhibits containing 750,000 items. But if exhibits aren’t quite enough to sell you, there’s also a deer park and gardens to explore the scenery and get close to the wildlife.
WEBSITE: WWW.wollatonhall.org
