Days Out in London with Kids
There's more going on in London than you'll ever get round to, which is a lovely problem right up until you're trying to pick one thing.
The Natural History Museum alone drew a record 7.1 million people in 2025, and the free sites are the ones pulling the biggest crowds. (1)
Some of the best days out don't cost a penny. Others add up fast, especially once you've paid for travel and lunch. It helps to know which is which before you leave the house.
See the latest days out below. Every listing shows the age range, the area and the price, so you know at a glance what works for you.
LUMINISCENCE: The new 360° projection concert
The incredible immersive projection concert LUMINISCENCE comes to Westminster Cathedral to tell the story of London, voiced by star of Paddington and Downton Abbey, Hugh Bonneville ⭐ After captivating over one million spectators across the world and its hugely successful UK debut in Manchester, LUMINISCENCE arrives in London to transform Westminster Cathedral in breathtaking ways, with a dazzling 360° video projection concert. Hear the story of London and one of its most important cathedrals in a specially commissioned script by BAFTA and Olivier Award winner Tim Whitnall, voiced by star of Paddington and Downton Abbey, Hugh Bonneville, and blended with live performances of classical music’s greatest composers brought to life by the phenomenal Lux Aeterna choir ONE EXPERIENCE, TWO INCREDIBLE MUSICAL VERSIONS Highlights 🏆 The London premiere of this spectacular experience that has already dazzled over one million spectators across the world and thousands at its critically acclaimed UK debut in Manchester 💎 A breathtaking 360-degree cutting-edge video-mapping experience that brings to life the story of London and one of its most important cathedrals 🗣️ A specially commissioned script by BAFTA and Olivier Award-winning writer Tim Whitnall voiced by star of Paddington and Downton Abbey, Hugh Bonneville ✨ Show Exclusive! Westminster Cathedral’s, never completed, mosaic adorned domes are digitally brought to life for the very first time in the architect's original vision 🎶 Live musical performances of some of classical music's greatest composers, performed by the Lux Aeterna choir 🕍 Check out the LUMINISCENCE Live+ 14-piece orchestra and Lux Aeterna choir select sessions ⛪ A one-of-a-kind chance to (re)discover one of London’s most iconic landmarks 👨👩👧 A magical experience to enjoy with your partner, friends, or family ⭐ Fast-track entry and best views seating for Gold ticket holders LUMINISCENCE - Live Choir, Lux Aeterna Choir 📅 Performances from July 1st 💶 From £32.50 🎶 Experience an unprecedented audio-visual immersion Treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind experience with the exceptional Lux Aeterna live choir in a majestic setting LUMINISCENCE LIVE+ 📅 Performances from 19th September 💶 From £49.50 🎶 An extraordinary sound experience Let yourself be carried away by the live LUMINISCENCE LIVE+ 14-piece orchestra and Lux Aeterna during an unforgettable immersive experience
Wed 2 Sept - Wed 2 Sept
20:00 - 20:50
Music • 4 years+ • £29.50
SW1P, Westminster Cathedral
Bridge Command Live Immersive Space Simulator
Step into the future with the Bridge Command Live Immersive Space Simulator Experience – Peak After being inducted into the United Confederation Navy and given a uniform, you’ll be teleported via dazzling special effects to the UCS Warspite, a large battleship stationed 22 lightyears away. You’ll be assigned to either the UCS Havock or UCS Takanami, both complete with sliding doors, cinematic effects like smoke and sparks, and interactive mechanical elements that bring the adventure to life. Take part in a story of exploration, diplomacy, and intergalactic intrigue or test your mettle in a high-stakes gameplay experience, mastering controls and fending off waves of enemy ships. Conclude your mission back on Earth with incredible memories, photos, and stories from the stars. Will your team be the heroes the galaxy needs? What's Included • Bridge Command Live Immersive Space Simulator Experience – Peak • Assistance and training from professional actors • Take ownership of UCS Havock or UCS Takanami • Choice of missions What happens on the day? On arrival, you’ll be given a uniform, welcomed to the United Confederation Navy, and then teleported via special effects to the UCS Warspite. You’ll then be assigned to be the crew of either the UCS Havock or UCS Takanami. The two ships are full-scale sets with sliding doors, special effects including smoke and sparks, hidden secrets and functioning mechanical elements that teams may need to repair if the ship becomes ‘damaged’. Once you’ve taken ownership of the ships, you’ll take part in a training session with a professional actor experienced in the operation of these ships. Work as a team to fly the ship, keep it repaired, defend it, and seek new frontiers in space. Crews can either take part in a story of exploration or a more gameplay-heavy experience involving mastering the controls of the ship. If you don’t wish to take part, you can enjoy the sci-fi atmosphere and watch their fellow guests playing via CCTV. At the end of the experience, the team are teleported back to earth and can retrieve their belongings after giving back their uniforms. Photographs can be taken throughout the experience.
Wed 2 Sept - Wed 30 Sept
16:00 - 18:00
Kids Activities • 16 years+ • £65.00
SE1, Bridge Command
Paddington Afternoon Tea Tour
Don’t miss the Paddington Afternoon Tea London Sightseeing Tour, a Paddington-themed tour through London aboard a classic double-decker bus, brought to you by Brigit’s Bakery, renowned for its delightful afternoon tea experiences. Enjoy sweet treats, marmalade sandwiches and animated storytelling while passing the city’s most famous landmarks. Highlights 🚌 Ride through Central London aboard an iconic Routemaster double-decker bus 🍰 Enjoy a Paddington-themed afternoon tea with the famous marmalade sandwich 🐻 Discover London landmarks with animated storytelling from Paddington and Mrs Bird 📍 Spot highlights like Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Piccadilly Circus and more Climb aboard a charming double-decker Routemaster for a Paddington-themed afternoon tea tour through Central London. Enjoy a delightful menu featuring marmalade sandwiches while passing iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Piccadilly Circus. Built-in screens bring the journey to life with animated storytelling from Paddington and Mrs Bird, making it a bear-tastic experience for families and London lovers alike. Get your tickets today for the Paddington Afternoon Tea London Sightseeing Tour in London!
Wed 2 Sept - Tue 10 Nov
11:30 - 14:00
Kids Activities • 2 years+ • £56.00
WC2N, Trafalgar Square
The Paddington Bear Experience
Step into the world of Paddington and embark on an exciting adventure to help the beloved bear and the Brown Family prepare for a very special occasion – Marmalade Day! Highlights • A completely unique, immersive experience • Something for the whole family to enjoy • Celebrate Marmalade Day in Windsor Gardens with Paddington This brand-new experience will take you on an exciting adventure into Paddington’s world! Help Paddington and the Brown Family prepare for a VERY special occasion; the Marmalade Day Festival. Just like Paddington, you’ll begin your adventure in the hustle and bustle of Paddington Station where you’ll meet the friendly Station Master and hop aboard our full-sized train carriage – make sure you aren’t late! JOURNEY through the sights and sounds of London, all the way to the Brown’s house at No. 32 Windsor Gardens. Step inside the Brown’s famous tree adorned hallway and EXPLORE multiple rooms in their home. Then VENTURE beyond as you’re transported to the magical jungle of Peru – all to help Paddington prepare for the biggest party Windsor Gardens has ever seen! Finish by CELEBRATING the Marmalade Day Festival at Windsor Gardens with Paddington and his friends where you’ll DANCE to vibrant calypso music, PLAY fairground games and EAT & DRINK festival treats – most importantly you can try Paddington’s favourite Marmalade sandwich! Be sure to have your PHOTOGRAPH taken with your party – and Paddington himself! The Paddington Bear™️ Experience and the Marmalade Day Festival will capture the hearts of the entire family, no matter the age.
Sat 5 Sept - Sat 26 Dec
09:00 - 11:00
Kids Activities • 2 years+ • £45.00
SE1, County Hall
Mini Me Spa Day for Two
Discover the ultimate shared quality time with this Mini Me Spa Day for Two at the 5* InterContinental London Park Lane. A slice of luxury in London’s most exclusive district, InterContinental is the perfect spot to get away from it all for a while – and with this glorious treat, you and your favourite little one can both savour the indulgence. The two of you will enjoy complimentary refreshments and cupcakes, as well as robes, towels and slippers. You’ll be treated to a 30-minute massage or facial of your choice, and your mini me can take their pick from a mini facial or hand, arm and foot massage. What's Included • The ultimate shared quality time for you and your mini-me • Refreshments and cupcakes to start • 30-minute massage or facial of your choice • Choice of mini facial or hand, arm and foot massage for your mini me • Luxurious, 5* surroundings in the heart of Mayfair What happens on the day? On arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the team at Spa InterContinental, who’ll provide you both with robes, towels and slippers and show you through to the spa. Start the quality time in style with refreshments and cupcakes; from there, you’ll enjoy a 30-minute massage or facial, and your mini me can enjoy a choice of mini facial or hand, foot and arm massage.
Wed 2 Sept - Sun 6 Sept
09:00 - 11:00
Kids Activities • 10 years+ • £180.00
W1J, InterContinental London Park Lane
Paw Patrol London Bus Tour
⭐ Brigit’s Bakery invites little heroes and their grown-ups on a PAWsome sightseeing adventure through the heart of London. Hop aboard a classic red Routemaster for the PAW Patrol Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, where families join Ryder and the pups on a city-wide mission to find the missing Mayor Goodway and Chickaletta. Highlights 🐾 Join the rescue mission with PAW Patrol as you search for clues across the city 🚌 Cruise past iconic landmarks including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Battersea Power Station 🎮 Each table has its own mission screen where Ryder guides junior patrollers through puzzles and challenges 🎤 Enjoy sing-alongs, games and family fun entertainment from the onboard host 🧁 Indulge in a playful PAW Patrol-themed afternoon tea with delicious treats for kids and grown-ups Mayor Goodway and Chickaletta have gone missing in London, and the PAW Patrol needs YOUR help to find them. Junior patrollers, are you ready to climb aboard the Routemaster bus and set off on a city-wide rescue mission? As you roll past London’s famous sights, follow clues and solve challenges on your table’s PAW Patrol mission screen. An onboard entertainer keeps the fun going with games and sing-alongs, while every young hero receives a PAW Patrol Activity Book to complete their mission and a special edition travel cup to take home. And when it’s time to refuel, Brigit’s expert pastry team serves a delicious afternoon tea packed with sweet and savoury treats inspired by everyone’s favourite rescue pups. Ready to save the day? Gather your team, hop on board, and make some tail-wagging memories on this unforgettable London adventure. Get your tickets today!
Wed 2 Sept - Tue 10 Nov
11:30 - 14:00
Kids Activities • 2-8 years • £37.00
WC2N, Corinthia Hotels
PAW Patrol Christmas Lights Bus Tour
Brigit’s Bakery invites you to join Ryder and the pups on the PAW Patrol Christmas Lights Bus Tour to help find Mayor Goodway before Christmas. Solve clues, see the city’s dazzling lights, and enjoy games, treats, and family fun along the way. Highlights 🚌 Climb aboard a festive Routemaster for a magical London Christmas lights tour 🐾 Help solve Ryder’s puzzles and clues to find Mayor Goodway 🎤 Enjoy sing-alongs, games, and high-energy onboard entertainment 🧁 Indulge in a festive afternoon tea and take home a PAW Patrol Christmas souvenir cup About PAW Patrol Christmas Lights Bus Tour Climb aboard a festive red Routemaster for a magical PAW Patrol Christmas Lights Bus Tour through London. Join Ryder and the pups on a rescue mission to find Mayor Goodway, solving clues on interactive screens while passing the city’s sparkling Christmas lights. Enjoy sing-alongs, games, a PAW Patrol activity book, and a delicious Christmas afternoon tea—a tail-wagging festive adventure for the whole family. Get your tickets for the PAW Patrol Christmas Lights Bus Tour in London!
Wed 11 Nov - Tue 5 Jan
12:30 - 14:00
Kids Activities • 2-8 years • £37.00
WC2N, Corinthia Hotels
National Gallery Explorer Children's Art Tour
From magical myths to faraway lands, this guide takes you through over 700 years of amazing art. You’ll hear the incredible stories behind some of the world’s greatest paintings and get up close to see every detail, discovering the tiny brushstrokes and splashes of colour that make a work of art. Be inspired to unleash your inner artist with hands-on sketching and activities amongst the masterpieces. Whatever your age, this tour is sure to spark your curiosity and wonder. No lectures, no rushing - just time to explore and enjoy art with the family. After your tour, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the rest of the gallery’s impressive collection at your own pace. What's Included • National Gallery Explorer: Children’s Art Tour of the National Gallery for • • One Adult and One Child • Guided tour of the National Gallery with a gallery-approved guide • Free general admission to the National Gallery • Sketching and other activities (materials provided) • Discover over 700 years of art with a Blue Badge Your tour will begin at the Sainsbury Wing, the National Gallery’s main entrance on Trafalgar Square (WC2N 5DN). After passing through security, please proceed to the Tours Meeting Point in the Sainsbury Wing Foyer on the ground floor (Level 0), located on the right-hand side near the staircase. You will meet your guide at the clearly marked meeting point with a Tours sign. Your guide will be wearing a yellow Official National Guide badge.
Sun 6 Sept - Sun 27 Sept
10:00 - 11:00
Art • 5-12 years • £39.00
WC2N, The National Gallery
The Gruffalo
Tall Stories presents… THE GRUFFALO at the Lyric Theatre this winter! A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood… Tall Stories’ much-loved magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler returns by popular demand, celebrating the show’s 25th anniversary. Songs, laughs and mischievous fun for children aged 3 and up and their grown-ups, from Tall Stories, creators of imaginative storytelling theatre, where everything is possible. What is The Gruffalo’s Child about? On a daring adventure in search of hazelnuts, Mouse meets the cunning Fox, the eccentric old Owl and the high spirited Snake. Will the story of the terrifying Gruffalo save Mouse from ending up as dinner for these hungry woodland creatures? After all, there’s no such thing as a Gruffalo – is there?
Wed 2 Sept - Wed 2 Sept
09:30 - 10:30
Kids Activities • 3-8 years • £12.00
W1D, Lyric Theatre
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Part 2
Experience the enchantment of the wizarding world like never before! For devoted Harry Potter fans, the final chapter of the beloved series left them yearning for more magical adventures. But fear not, dear muggles! Get your Potter fix with Harry Potter and the Cursed Child! What is Harry Potter And The Cursed Child About? Harry Potter and the Cursed Child picks up precisely where the last book's epilogue left off—19 years after the climactic Battle of Hogwarts in the Second Wizarding War. Harry is no longer the young wizard we once knew, but an overworked employee at the Ministry of Magic and a devoted husband and father to three children. But the past is a persistent force, haunting Harry's every step. Meanwhile, his youngest son Albus grapples with the daunting weight of a family legacy he never asked for nor desired. Prepare for spectacular spells, a mind-blowing race through time, and an epic battle to stop mysterious forces, all while the future hangs in the balance… No Muggles! - About Harry Potter The Harry Potter series follows a young wizard named Harry who lives with his non-magical relatives until his eleventh birthday, when he is invited to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. J.K. Rowling completed the first book, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone in June 1995 and was rejected by 12 publishers before Bloomsbury bought it. Rowling went on to write six sequels, which follow Harry's adventures at Hogwarts with friends Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley and his attempts to defeat Lord Voldemort, a dark wizard who killed Harry’s parents when he was a child. The books were transformed into a blockbuster series of eight films released over 10 years, which grossed more than $7 billion worldwide. The series has since prompted a massive amount of related merchandise including, but not limited to, clothing, video games, spin-off prequels, and a US theme park! Harry Potter and The Cursed Child opened at the Palace Theatre in 2016 to rave reviews and has been going strong ever since! The show also opened at the Lyric Theatre on Broadway in 2018 and is also still running.
Wed 2 Sept - Wed 16 Sept
18:00 - 20:35
Theatre Show • 10 years+ • £35.00
W1D, Palace Theatre
Disney Hercules The Musical
The musical, inspired by the animated film, based on the ancient myth. It's what classical civilisation would have wanted. Ancient Greece. A time of gods, mortals… and Hercules, who isn’t quite either. But if he's not a god, how can he possibly save the world from Hades? It's one thing flexing those pecs, but going from zero to hero requires a different kind of strength. Get ready for a wise-cracking, column-shaking, underworld-rocking ride of adventure, self-discovery and love. In tunics. Directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw, with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by David Zippel, a brand-new book by Robert Horn and Kwame Kwei-Armah, and co-choreography by Tanisha Scott, Disney’s Hercules delivers a thrilling night out at London’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane that leaves you ready to conquer anything.
Wed 2 Sept - Sat 5 Sept
18:30 - 21:00
Theatre Show • 6 years+ • £29.50
WC2B, Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Paradox Museum London
Exit reality. Enter fun! Step into a mesmerising world at Paradox Museum, London's most fun and educational experience for all ages, with ultra-instagrammable photo ops and surprising paradoxes that will defy your perception of reality. Dare to take the ride Highlights 🌏 Visited by 3 million people worldwide 🤯 Explore 50+ immersive paradoxes and challenge reality 👪 Play in impossible rooms: stand upside down, disappear, and snap epic selfies! 🤳 Experience the Zero Gravity Room: feel like you're walking in space! (add-on required) 🧠 Challenge yourself and think outside the box 🎁 Save 25% on Paradox Museum souvenirs when buying the Merch Bundle Add-on online! About Paradox Museum Step into Paradox Museum London and see the world from a new perspective. Explore mind-bending exhibits like the Infinity Well, Zero Gravity Room, Paradox Sofa, and Paradox Tunnel, where reality is redefined and gravity is challenged. Each exhibit pushes your perception and creativity. Get your tickets now for this immersive experience!
Wed 2 Sept - Mon 30 Nov
09:00 - 11:00
Kids Activities • all ages • £25.50
SW3, Paradox Museum
Twist Museum: London's Home of Illusions
Twist Museum is a fun, immersive, interactive playground for your perceptions on London’s iconic Oxford Street. We are London’s longest serving and best rated illusion experience. Twist Museum is an immersive experience that explores how your brain interprets reality. Created in collaboration with artists, neuroscientists and philosophers, with over 80 exhibits, it’s a fun museum where science meets creativity. Journey through optical illusions, mind-bending installations and sensory surprises that challenge perception. A Family Day Out Like No Other Bring the whole family to London’s original home of illusions! Dive into a playful world where hands-on exhibits, incredible art installations and brain-twisting displays spark curiosity and laughter at every turn. Our colourful, interactive exhibits blend creativity, science and art to create a sensory playground the whole family will love. Whether you’re five or ninety-five, there’s something to surprise and delight everyone. Ticket Information • Family Ticket is suitable for 2 adults & 2 children or 1 adult & 3 children. • Under 3's are free • Flexi Upgrades - visit any time on your date
Wed 2 Sept - Thu 12 Nov
10:00 - 19:30
Art • all ages • £20.00
W1C, Twist Museum
London: Peppa Pig Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
See the best of London as you ride aboard an iconic double-decker Routemaster bus. Enjoy a Peppa Pig afternoon-themed tea experience with traditional British treats and unlimited hot drinks. Highlights • Feel in awe as you experience an entertaining Peppa Pig afternoon tea bus • Enjoy an afternoon tea full of British classics that your taste buds will love • Marvel at Big Ben, Piccadilly Circus, and other famous sites • Immerse yourself in a fun, interactive experience that you won't forget • Listen to Peppa Pig guided animations with singalong songs, activities, and more About Peppa Pig Afternoon Tea Bus Tour Enjoy the best views of Central London on a double-decker Routemaster bus while enjoying a Peppa Pig-themed afternoon tea. Listen to a Peppa Pig audio guide full of fun games and sing-a-long songs the whole family will love. Meet your host at the Somerset House. Hop on the double-decker red bus and get ready for a unique adventure. Take your seat, where your unique built-in tablet provides a Peppa Pig guided animation of the London tour itinerary and sing-a-long songs that the whole family will enjoy. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as your driver takes you past Peppa’s favorite landmarks, such as Big Ben and Piccadilly Circus. Listen as Peppa will tell you about some of her exciting adventures. Tuck into your delicious afternoon tea served to you on board; you will have a choice of sweet and savoury British treats that you and the kids will love.
Wed 2 Sept - Tue 10 Nov
11:15 - 13:45
Kids Activities • 2-7 years • £55.00
WC2R, Temple Embankment Bus Stop N
Monopoly London Tea Tour
Step aboard for the MONOPOLY London Tea Tour, an immersive sightseeing adventure where London’s iconic streets meet the world’s favourite board game—served with a side of delicious afternoon tea! Highlights 🚌 Explore London’s landmarks on a vintage Routemaster bus, from Big Ben to Mayfair. 🎲 Play a digital twist on the classic MONOPOLY board game while touring the city. 🍰 Indulge in a MONOPOLY-themed afternoon tea with sweet and savory delights. 🥂 Upgrade your experience with bubbly—choose from Prosecco or Champagne. 💰 Buy properties, complete puzzles, earn money, and compete with friends and family. 🏛️ Cruise past Trafalgar Square, the London Eye, Harrods, Westminster, and more! About MONOPOLY London Tea Tour Embark on the ultimate blend of indulgence and excitement with the MONOPOLY London Tea Tour! This immersive adventure takes you through the real-life streets of MONOPOLY London, from Piccadilly to Pall Mall, while enjoying a gourmet afternoon tea. Play a digital version of the game, answer trivia, earn Monopoly money, and build your empire—all aboard a charming vintage bus. With panoramic city views, themed treats, and friendly competition, this is a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t forget. Book now and bring the game to life.
Sat 12 Sept - Sat 24 Oct
12:00 - 13:30
Kids Activities • 5 years+ • £44.25
WC2R, Temple Embankment Bus Stop N
Peppa Pig Halloween Tea Bus Tour
Don’t miss the Peppa Pig Halloween London Sightseeing Bus Tour from Brigit’s Bakery, a spooky afternoon tea experience through London’s most famous landmarks. Enjoy Halloween treats, family sing-alongs, and a best-dressed costume prize on this limited-time adventure. Highlights 🎃 Enjoy a spooky Peppa Pig Halloween afternoon tea with themed treats for kids and grown-ups 🚌 Discover iconic London sights including Big Ben and St Paul's Cathedral 🎶 Sing along to Peppa Pig songs with an interactive tablet animation at every table 🏆 Dress up in Halloween costumes for a chance to win the best-dressed family prize About Peppa Pig Halloween Tea Bus Tour Celebrate Halloween with Peppa Pig on a magical London sightseeing bus tour filled with spooky afternoon tea treats. Enjoy family sing-alongs, a Peppa Pig-guided animation on in-table tablets, and spectacular views of famous landmarks such as Big Ben and Tower Bridge. Costumes are encouraged, with a prize for the best-dressed family, making this limited-time adventure a fun-filled day for kids and grown-ups alike. Get your tickets for Peppa Pig Halloween London Sightseeing Bus Tour in London!
Mon 19 Oct - Sun 1 Nov
11:15 - 13:45
Halloween Activities • 2-8 years • £54.00
WC2R, Temple Embankment Bus Stop N
Peppa Pig Christmas Tea Bus Tour
Don’t miss a festive Peppa Pig Christmas Bus Tour through London, from Brigit’s Bakery, filled with holiday cheer, themed afternoon tea and family sing-along fun. Enjoy sparkling Christmas lights, iconic landmarks and a magical journey as little fans follow Peppa’s animated guided adventure onboard. Highlights 🎄 Enjoy a Peppa Pig Christmas afternoon tea with fun themed treats and festive decorations 🚌 Discover London landmarks like Big Ben and Tower Bridge from a festive sightseeing bus 🎶 Sing along to cheerful Peppa Pig songs with onboard animated guidance 📘 Take home a Peppa Pig activity book packed with fun for little fans About Peppa Pig Christmas Tea Bus Tour Hop aboard a festive Peppa Pig Christmas Bus Tour through London, where twinkling decorations, themed afternoon tea treats and cheerful sing-along songs create a magical family experience. Little fans enjoy Peppa-guided animations on table tablets while passing iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Tower Bridge, making sightseeing deliciously fun for both kids and grown-ups. Get your tickets today for the Peppa Pig Christmas Bus Tour in London!
Wed 11 Nov - Tue 5 Jan
12:15 - 13:45
Christmas Activities • 2-8 years • £37.00
WC2R, Temple Embankment Bus Stop N
Family Films: Rio
This comedy-adventure centers on Blu, a flightless rare macaw who acts more human than bird. His world is turned upside down when he discovers he must travel all the way to Rio to save his species. There, he meets the wildly independent Jewel and a menagerie of vivid characters who all embark on a journey and help Blu fulfill his destiny and learn to fly. Into Film recommends this for ages 5+ On Sunday mornings our Family Screenings are followed by a free activity for Children. The screening is Pay What You Can, which means you’re free to pay as much or as little as you can afford. By paying for a ticket, you will enable us to keep offering Pay What You Can screenings to families struggling with the cost of living. Thank you.
Sat 5 Sept - Sun 6 Sept
10:00 - 11:45
Film and Media • 5 years+ • £3.00
WC2B, The Garden Cinema
Family Films: Reverie Cineclub presents: 80 Years of DEFA Animated Short Films for the Family
Reverie Cineclub is delighted to present a special selection of six animated shorts from the DEFA Studio for Animation Film in Dresden, Germany, in celebration of its 80th anniversary this year. Founded in 1946, the studio would go on to become the leading producer of animated films in the GDR, creating more than 750 works across a wide range of techniques, from hand-drawn cartoons to puppet and silhouette stop-motion. Endearingly referred to in Germany as ‘Trickfilme’ – as in a magic trick or illusion created through animation – these children's films often followed the whimsical adventures of little animals and toys brought to life through tales of slapstick mischief, curiosity and friendship. This joyful selection includes the story of a little frog who longs to explore the world; a cheeky green devil who steals one too many Berliner Pfannkuchen; and Sergei Prokofiev's beloved symphonic fairy tale for children, Peter and the Wolf. This screening is presented by Reverie Cineclub, dedicated to bringing the spellbinding hidden gems of cinema history to family audiences at The Garden Cinema. For more information about Reverie Cineclub and our upcoming events, please check out our website at reveriecineclub.com Films courtesy of Deutsche Kinemathek – Museum für Film und Fernsehen. Film Descriptions: A Peaceful Day / Ein friedlicher Tag A beetle flees from a bird. There is no hiding place where it is safe from its pursuer. It hides in a dark crevice where the bird’s beak cannot reach. The beetle laughs at the bird. It has not yet realized that it is sitting in the space between the earth and the sole of a man’s shoe. East Germany 1985, Dir: Sieglinde Hamacher 5 min *No dialogue Everyone Helps Teddy / Alle helfen Teddy Nighttime in the kindergarten and the toys are all asleep. Only the little bunny is on night watch. There’s a bad storm outside, but the bunny is brave and gets over its fear. Suddenly, a gust of wind pushes the window open. The bunny panics, and now the teddy bear is in danger! The little bunny, the monkey and the elephant start a rescue operation. East Germany 1960, Dir: Monika Anderson 13 min *No dialogue The Little Frog and His Tire / Vom Fröschlein und seinem Reifen A little frog jumps out of the pond and wants to see the world. He is excited about all his new discoveries… until he meets the dangerous stork, who almost eats him. Luckily, he manages to escape at the last minute. East Germany 1964, Dir: Heinz Nagel 4 min *No dialogue The Race / Der Wettlauf The wire men Kurz (Short) and Lang (Long) want to race each other. They choose a tree on the horizon as their destination. While Kurz prepares for the race, Lang measures the course. Unnoticed, he draws a moat across the track. The start takes place. Initially, Kurz and Lang are tied, but Lang jumps over at the ditch and Kurz remains sadly on the sidelines. The beaming winner is Lang. Kurz calls on the unfair Lang to run a second race. East Germany 1963, Dir: Günter Rätz 6 min *No dialogue Alarm at the Puppet Theater / Alarm im Kasperletheater Funny things happen at night at the puppet theater – especially today, since there were jelly donuts for Grandma’s birthday! When the little green devil decides to run away and take the whole bowl for himself, a grand chase ensues – through the village, over water, and into the sky – as the other puppets try to reclaim their stolen treats. Although the devil eats all the treats, he is rightly punished with a terrible stomachache! This East German animation classic is based on a picture book written by Nils Werner. East Germany 1960, Dir: Lothar Barke 16 min *In German with English subtitles Peter and the Wolf / Peter und der Wolf Peter and the little bird outwit the dangerous wolf. They catch him and bring him to a zoo in a parade. This puppet animation film is based on Sergei Prokofiev’s symphonic fairy tale for children, Peter and the Wolf. Each character in the tale is represented by a corresponding orchestral instrument, helping children learn to distinguish the sound of each instrument. East Germany 1974, Dir: Günter Rätz 14 min *No dialogue On Sunday mornings our Family Screenings are followed by a free activity for Children. The screening is Pay What You Can, which means you’re free to pay as much or as little as you can afford. By paying for a ticket, you will enable us to keep offering Pay What You Can screenings to families struggling with the cost of living. Thank you. About Reverie Cineclub: Founded by National Film and Television School MA graduate Nathasha Orlando Kappler in 2024, Reverie Cineclub specialises in presenting the spellbinding hidden gems of cinema history for the whole family to enjoy. From classic world cinema and early independent animation to experimental shorts, our aim is to introduce young audiences to a range of films that are diverse in language, culture, and form.
Sat 12 Sept - Sun 13 Sept
10:00 - 11:00
Film and Media • 5 years+ • £3.00
WC2B, The Garden Cinema
Family Films: Free Willy
In this much-loved family classic, a 12-year-old orphaned boy named Jesse befriends a captive orca, Willy, at an ailing amusement park. When he discovers that the park owner has been planning to dispose of Willy, he hatches a scheme to break Willy out of captivity. Into Film recommends this for ages 8+ On Sunday mornings our Family Screenings are followed by a free activity for Children. The screening is Pay What You Can, which means you’re free to pay as much or as little as you can afford. By paying for a ticket, you will enable us to keep offering Pay What You Can screenings to families struggling with the cost of living. Thank you.
Sat 19 Sept - Sun 20 Sept
10:00 - 11:45
Film and Media • 8 years+ • £3.00
WC2B, The Garden Cinema
Family Films: Harry and the Hendersons
Academy Award nominee John Lithgow stars in this big-hearted, big-footed family comedy. While returning from a trip to the woods, George Henderson and his family accidentally run over a friendly Bigfoot-like beast. "Harry" soon awakens and despite their initial fears, Harry turns out to be a kind and sensitive being. When authorities set out to capture him, The Hendersons comes together to in a race against the clock to return the Sasquatch to it's natural habitat. Into Film age recommendation: 8+ On Sunday mornings our Family Screenings are followed by a free activity for Children. The screening is Pay What You Can, which means you’re free to pay as much or as little as you can afford. By paying for a ticket, you will enable us to keep offering Pay What You Can screenings to families struggling with the cost of living. Thank you.
Sat 26 Sept - Sun 27 Sept
10:00 - 12:00
Film and Media • 8 years+ • £3.00
WC2B, The Garden Cinema
Treetop Adventure Plus, Battersea Park
Treetop Adventure Plus offers the ultimate high ropes thrill for kids aged 6-10. With elevated tricky crossings and epic zip wires, it's the perfect adventure for families seeking excitement! Treetop Adventure Plus Activity Lowdown • Recommended age: 6-10 (minimum age is 6) • The minimum height is 1.2m • There are a variety of obstacles to challenge participants, including zip wires and crossings • For adventurers between 4 and 6, we recommend Treetop Adventure. For thrill-seekers aged 10 and above, we highly recommend Treetop Challenge. About Go Ape From four to eighty-four and beyond, with a head for heights or not, we have an adventure to suit you. Experience a unique and fun challenge that’ll leave you with that epic feeling of I did it! Our friendly team is on hand to safely help everyone live life more adventurously. • We’ve got the adventure to suit you, whether you’re ready to leap into our Treetop Challenge or start out with our Treetop Adventure (open to everyone but especially suiting younger adventurers) or jump right in with Nets Adventure, swings and more. • The fun isn’t just in the treetops, find more ways to explore the forest from Forest Segways to bikes or even try your arm at Axe Throwing! • Our 37 stunning locations are all unique, so you can find your nearest or see what each has to offer. • Each activity at our locations will list any restrictions, including minimum ages and what supervision is needed. • If you have any requirements for your visit, please get in touch with our team who will be happy to help. Come find out why we’re the UK's #1 Outdoor Adventure Company. We're ready, are you?
Wed 2 Sept - Sat 31 Oct
09:00 - 12:00
Kids Activities • 6-10 years • £28.95
SW11, Go Ape Battersea Park
Treetop Challenge, Battersea Park
Treetop Challenge is a thrilling high ropes course featuring 3 loops of high-flying adventure. This heart-pounding experience offers the chance to conquer suspended obstacles, navigate wobbly bridges, and soar through the canopy on two exhilarating zip lines. Plus, enjoy some of the best views of central London from the treetops, creating unforgettable memories against the iconic city skyline. Treetop Challenge Activity Lowdown • The minimum height is 1.4m (4'7") and the recommended age is 10+ • The course typically takes 2 - 3 hours to complete • 42 daring crossings that test your agility and nerve • 2 exhilarating zip wires offering breathtaking views from heights of up to 13.6m above the floor • For adventurers between 4 and 6, we recommend Treetop Adventure. For thrill-seekers aged 6 to 10, we recommend Treetop Adventure Plus • Safety is a top priority, and all participants are given a full safety briefing before they begin the course About Go Ape From four to eighty-four and beyond, with a head for heights or not, we have an adventure to suit you. Experience a unique and fun challenge that’ll leave you with that epic feeling of I did it! Our friendly team is on hand to safely help everyone live life more adventurously. • We’ve got the adventure to suit you, whether you’re ready to leap into our Treetop Challenge or start out with our Treetop Adventure (open to everyone but especially suiting younger adventurers) or jump right in with Nets Adventure, swings and more. • The fun isn’t just in the treetops, find more ways to explore the forest from Forest Segways to bikes or even try your arm at Axe Throwing! • Our 37 stunning locations are all unique, so you can find your nearest or see what each has to offer. • Each activity at our locations will list any restrictions, including minimum ages and what supervision is needed. • If you have any requirements for your visit, please get in touch with our team who will be happy to help. Come find out why we’re the UK's #1 Outdoor Adventure Company. We're ready, are you?
Wed 2 Sept - Sat 31 Oct
09:00 - 12:00
Kids Activities • 10 years+ • £39.95
SW11, Go Ape Battersea Park
Pumpkin Carving: Family Halloween
Calling all ghouls and goblins, young and old! Get ready for a spooktacular Halloween adventure at Chelsea Physic Garden! Join us for a wickedly fun pumpkin carving session where we'll uncover the mysteries of pumpkin plants and wander through the eerie autumn Garden. Then, step into our haunted garden shed to bring your pumpkin to life as a Halloween friend! All tools and materials are provided, and each participant will take home their own jack-o-lantern creation. Remember, sharp tools are involved, so each child must have a grown-up ghoul to assist. This frightfully fun workshop is perfect for children aged 5 and up. Don’t miss out—tickets required for both little monsters and their adult companions! About Chelsea Physic Garden Explore London's oldest botanic garden Established in 1673, by the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries of London, Chelsea Physic Garden is home to over 4,500 medicinal, edible and useful plants. Open Sunday – Friday, visitors can explore the historic glasshouses, discover the plant collection, or simply relax and enjoy the four-acres of green space in central London.
Thu 22 Oct - Fri 23 Oct
12:00 - 13:00
Halloween Activities • 5-12 years • £15.00
SW3, Chelsea Physic Garden
Free days out, and what free usually means
A lot of London's best days out cost nothing to get into. The big national museums are free, and most run family trails, backpacks and drop-in sessions on top of that.
The catch is that "free" and "just turn up" aren't the same thing. Free workshops and family sessions are usually ticketed, with a set number of places released on a particular day, and the popular ones sell out quickly.
It's also worth checking who the free ticket covers. Sometimes it's the child, sometimes it's an under-two on your lap, and sometimes everyone in the group needs a ticket.
When to book
ost of the bigger attractions now use timed entry, so you're picking a slot rather than just turning up with a ticket.
In the school holidays, aim for a few weeks ahead, and sooner if you want a weekend. Christmas is the one that catches people out. Booking opens months in advance and the best dates are gone before the autumn term ends.
Term-time weekday mornings are the quietest, and often the cheapest
Getting around in London
Travel is the cost people forget, and ten minutes of planning saves a surprising amount.
Children under 11 travel free on the tube, bus, DLR and Overground when they're with a paying adult. For a family of four heading into town, that takes most of the travel bill away before you've bought a single ticket.
Then after 11 years of age the cost goes up. Without a Zip Oyster photocard, an eleven year old pays the full adult fare, same as you. With one, they travel free on buses and at child rate everywhere else. Applications take a few weeks and there's a fee, so it's a good idea to sort these out before your day out in London.
How much to trust the age guidance
It depends where you're going.
At museums and galleries, an age range on a family session is usually a recommendation. It reflects how long the activity runs and how much reading is involved, and nobody will turn you away for being slightly outside it.
At immersive experiences and some attractions, a minimum age is a rule, and it's often there for safety rather than content. Height limits, no buggies past a certain point, and under-eights needing to stay with an adult are all common.
If you're travelling across London for something, it's an important detail to check first.
Quieter visits
Lots of London venues now run early-opening quiet hours and relaxed sessions, with lower sound, softer lighting and fewer people in the building.
These are usually a single slot rather than a regular event, so they need booking earlier than a standard ticket.
Museums are often happy to talk through what a visit involves beforehand, even where nothing is advertised. It's worth an email if your child would find it easier knowing what to expect.
Rainy days in London
The free museums are everyone's wet weather answer, which is exactly the problem. The moment it starts raining in half term, so does everybody else.
If the forecast looks poor, book a timed slot the night before rather than arriving at eleven with the rest of London..
Worth checking before you go
- Whether entry is timed or valid all day, which decides whether you can fit anything else in
- Whether the adult needs a ticket, and whether an under-two does
- Whether the price is per person or per family
- Buggy storage, and whether you can wheel it round or have to leave it at the door
- How long the activity lasts, as opposed to how long the venue is open
FAQs about days out in London with kids
What are the best days out in London with kids?
That depends on ages and stamina more than anything. The big museums suit a wide age range and cost nothing to enter. Immersive experiences work well for children who can't sit still. Outdoor trails and parks are the safest bet with a mixed-age group, because nobody has to stay quiet or keep up.
Are there free days out in London with kids?
There are plenty of free days out in London with kids. The national museums are free to enter, and many run free family trails and drop-in activities alongside.
Libraries, parks and community venues put on free events too, especially in the school holidays. Most free sessions still need booking, so free rarely means simply turning up.
How much does a day out in London with kids cost?
The cost depends on three things: entry, travel and food. Entry can be nothing, since the national museums are free to get into.
Travel is free for under-11s with a paying adult, and full adult fare from 11 up unless they have a Zip photocard.
Food is the one that quietly doubles the bill, so a packed lunch makes more difference than people expect.
The listings above show the ticket price for each day out, and you can manage the cost of the event entry more easily.
What can you do in London with kids when it's raining?
The free museums are a great choice, and they're busiest for exactly that reason. Indoor play, immersive experiences, aquariums and soft play all work as well, and most can be booked ahead so you're not queueing in the wet.
What's the best age for a day out in London?
Every age, though what works changes a lot. Under-fives do better with short, close-to-home outings and plenty of space to move. From about six, longer trips and ticketed attractions become realistic. Teenagers usually want something with a bit of novelty rather than a museum trail.
Do you need to book days out in London in advance?
For anything ticketed, yes, especially in the school holidays. Timed entry is standard at the bigger attractions now, and popular slots go early. Free drop-in sessions are the exception, but even those are worth checking, as many have moved to booking.
