Days Out in London with Kids
There's more going on in London than you'll ever get round to.
This is a lovely problem right up until you're trying to pick one way to spend a family day out.
What are the best ways to spend days out in London with kids?
The big free museums tend to pull the biggest crowds. The Natural History Museum alone drew a record 7.1 million people in 2025. (1)
But there are lots of cost-friendly hidden gems, too.
The Garden Cinema, for example, runs family screenings of kid-friendly films. Not only are tickets sold on a pay-what-you-can basis, but the films are also followed by free, fun children's activities.
They also do Bring Your Baby screenings of the latest film releases for parents and carers with little ones aged 12 months and under.
Of course, there are also lots of children's events and activities worth paying a bit more for. Our main guide on things to do in London with kids covers the latest upcoming family events in more depth.
But for a faster search, browse the wonderful events and activities for days out in London with kids below.
Every listing shows the age range, the area and the price, so you know at a glance what works for your family.
Days out in London with kids you can book right now:
Wicked The Musical
Get tickets to the award winning WICKED at London’s Apollo Victoria Theatre, now in its landmark 18th year. Discover the untold story of the Wicked Witch of the West. WICKED, the West End and Broadway musical sensation, is the winner of more than 100 global awards, including three Tony Awards on Broadway, two Olivier Awards, eleven WhatsOnStage Awards, and a Grammy. Currently starring Emma Kingston as Elphaba with Zizi Strallen as her counterpart Glinda, WICKED the musical is the 10th longest running production in West End history. This spellbinding show has been seen by over 12 million people, and it remains ‘one of the most successful musicals of all time’ (BBC News). Transporting audiences to a reimagined world of Oz, this outstanding musical features stunning costumes, spectacular sets and show-stopping songs in a night of spellbinding theatrical magic. Book your theatre tickets to this truly WICKED musical with LOVEtheatre today! What is Wicked the Musical about? When Dorothy Gale famously triumphed over the Wicked Witch of the West, we only ever heard one side of the story. See the Land of Oz through new eyes and explore a parallel journey to the familiar The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Based on the acclaimed novel by Gregory Maguire, Wicked imagines a beguiling backstory and future possibilities to the lives of L. Frank Baum’s beloved characters from ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’, revealing the decisions and events that shape the destinies of two unlikely university friends on their journey to becoming ‘Glinda The Good’ and the ‘Wicked Witch of the West’.
Tue 27 Oct - Sat 19 Dec
19:30 - 22:15
Theatre Show • 5 years+ • £26.50
SW1V, Apollo Victoria Theatre
Christmas Family Concert, Victoria & Pimlico
Grab your family, harness up your fastest reindeer and meet us at a Bach to Baby concert for the perfect prelude to the holiday season! Sleigh bells ring, the stage is set - a jolly concert you won't forget. So don your glitter, grab your crew - Bach to Baby's got a treat for you! Our Christmas concerts are a festive feast of music and sing-along carols - featuring seasonal favourites, jazzy twists and surprises. Whether rocking a baby, shepherding tots, or gathering the whole family tree, eveyone's welcome. About Bach to Baby Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. Outstanding Musicians, Exhilarating Performances, Inspiring Locations across the UK. As seen at Royal Albert Hall and Buckingham Palace. Featured in The Times (London) and the New York Times.
Sat 28 Nov - Sat 28 Nov
11:00 - 11:45
Music • 0m-5 years • £18.00
SW1V, St Gabriel's Church
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!
Tue 27 Oct - Tue 10 Nov
12:30 - 14:00
Kids Activities • 2-9 years • £56.00
WC2N, Trafalgar Square
Santa in the Sky
This Christmas, soar above London and meet Santa in our festively decorated pod, a Christmas experience for all ages. Step into a World of Festive Magic Embark on a magical festive adventure for the whole family. Your experience begins with a VIP welcome before you’re greeted by one of Santa’s special friends in a dedicated Christmas space. Whether you meet the Gingerbread Baker, Toy Maker’s Apprentice, Santa’s Head Elf or the Nutcracker, they’ll entertain your little ones with festive games, activities and a complimentary sweet treat. Children can write their letters to Santa at the craft table and post them in the Christmas post box before the journey begins. Once the excitement builds, your Christmas host will escort you to your beautifully decorated London Eye pod, where Santa is waiting. With your children’s wish lists and special details secretly shared in advance, Santa will amaze them with personalised stories and surprises as you soar above London’s sparkling skyline, before gifting them a special present to take home. Experience the Magic in motion Santa in the Sky offers a magical Christmas experience high above the city. Here’s what awaits you during your visit: • VIP check-in and warm welcome from one of Santa’s festive friends • A dedicated pre-flight Christmas space filled with decorations, activities and festive fun • A complimentary sweet treat for little ones • A festive escort to your London Eye pod • A 30-minute London Eye rotation where you'll meet Santa, hear enchanting stories and enjoy 360-degree views of London sparkling below • A special gift for every child to take home This ticket price include 1 Adult & 1 Child
Sat 21 Nov - Thu 24 Dec
11:30 - 12:30
Kids Activities • 0m-12 years • £39.00
SE1, The London Eye
Shrek the Halls! A Shrektacular Experience
An ogre-the-top Christmas at the Swamp Shrek the Halls is back at Shrek’s Adventure! London this festive season for an ogre-the-top festive experience. Guests will meet Shrek Santa in a specially decorated swamp, creating memorable seasonal moments and photo opportunities for the whole family! This Christmas adventure runs from 5 December to 3 January and is included with your Shrek’s Adventure! London ticket. Pre-book online to guarantee entry Meet Shrek santa today and post for a photo to mark the special occasion! Guests will also be gifted with a Christmas card – included in the standard ticket price! Meet Shrek santa Hop aboard the magical flying 4D bus to Far Far Away and step into a Christmas adventure like no other. Journey through nine laugh-out-loud live shows, packed with festive sparkle, captivating storytelling, special effects, and Donkey’s trademark cheekiness! The Shrek Santa Meet & Greet is included with every entry ticket – no extra cost to join the fun! You’ll also spot familiar faces like Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and the Muffin Man. Even Far Far Away gets a touch of Christmas magic!
Sat 5 Dec - Sun 3 Jan
10:00 - 11:00
Christmas Activities • 2-12 years • £24.00
SE1, Shrek's Adventure
Tricks & Treats
Will you be brave enough to step up and solve the ‘spook-splash-tic’ challenges? This Halloween Embark on a journey of amazing discovery and splash into SEA LIFE London Aquarium this half term! Join our terrifyingly brilliant Trick and Treats team for a frighteningly fun time! They love looking after their ocean home and helping keep their fellow sea creatures safe. They’ve conjured up some magical challenges to find those eager to join their army of ocean defenders. Are you brave enough? Step up and help our sea sorcerers by solving the ‘spook-splash-tic’ challenges and fill in your activity sheet as you go. Learn all about the tricks of the amazing, ‘scary-not scary’ sea creatures, if you dare! Water you waiting for? Your Halloween adventure is included with entry! Don’t forget to explore the rest of our extraordinary, themed habitat zones, featuring over 500 species. Delve into the UK's largest jellyfish experience with Ocean Invaders – an interactive experience through three unique zones. Dive into a dazzling underwater oasis and wave your fins at the UK’s largest living Coral Reef, home to beautiful clownfish, blue tangs and sea goldies. With so much to discover this Halloween – water you waiting for?
Tue 27 Oct - Sat 31 Oct
09:30 - 10:00
Kids Activities • 0m-12 years • £28.00
SE1, SEA LIFE London Aquarium
A Shrektacular Halloween
Spooky Hilarious Misadventure! This October half term, Shrek’s Adventure! London is getting a Halloween twist! Step into Far Far Away for a family journey filled with spooky fun and frightfully funny surprises around every corner. This Halloween adventure runs from 17 October to 1 November and is included with your Shrek’s Adventure! London ticket. Pre-book online to guarantee entry. The fun doesn't end there... Hop aboard the magical flying bus and journey from London to Far Far Away, where fairytale characters, hilarious live storytelling and plenty of surprises await. You’ll find Shrek’s Adventure! London on the South Bank, right next to the London Eye. Discover the adventure Journey through 9 fairytale-themed live shows and meet characters from the Shrek films, including Rumpelstiltskin, Sleeping Beauty, the Muffin Man, Pinocchio and Cinderella, before coming face-to-face with Shrek himself. And keep your eyes peeled for some other familiar DreamWorks faces, including the Penguins of Madagascar and Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon.
Tue 27 Oct - Sun 1 Nov
10:00 - 11:00
Halloween Activities • 3-12 years • £24.00
SE1, Shrek's Adventure
Curse of the Mummy
The Unlucky Mummy Returns Discover how no one is immune to the gruesome misfortunes brought by ancient evil and how a group of wealthy Victorian elites paid the price for their arrogance. You’ll come to realise why some tombs were best left undisturbed, with a story so scary that you’ll want your mummy! This Halloween show will be available from 17 October to 1 November and is included in your London Dungeon ticket. Pre-book online to guarantee entry. Be careful where your eyes wander in the presence of the Unlucky Mummy, or you may leave with a curse of your own.
Tue 27 Oct - Sun 1 Nov
10:00 - 14:00
Halloween Activities • 12 years+ • £27.00
SE1, The London Dungeon
Peppa Pig's Big Family Show
Peppa Pig and friends are back at Theatre Royal Haymarket in their live stage show! Peppa Pig and friends are back in their live stage show! With a new arrival on the way the whole family are busy getting ready. With building and decorating work to be done it’s an oinktastic makeover and Peppa Pig, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig & George all need your help to get everything ready before the big day. There’s so much to do – will they get it all finished in time? PEPPA PIG’S BIG FAMILY SHOW is packed full of music, adventure and surprises for little ones, and is set to delight audiences across the UK. What is Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show! about? With a new arrival on the way the whole family are busy getting ready. With building and decorating work to be done, it’s an oinktastic makeover and Peppa Pig, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig & George all need your help to get everything ready before the arrival of baby Evie! There’s so much to do – will they get it all finished in time? About Theatre Royal Haymarket The Theatre Royal Haymarket, known originally as ‘The Little Theatre in the Hay’, is a Grade I listed building situated in the heart of the West End. Designed and constructed by John Potter in 1720 it is one of Britain’s most treasured theatres. Circa 1820, all the buildings on the east of the Haymarket from the theatre southward were rebuilt in connection with John Nash‘s schemes for the improvement of the neighbourhood. Nash persuaded the proprietors of the theatre to rebuild on a site a little south of the old one so that the portico should close the vista from Charles Street. The theatre seats up to 860 patrons and is the third oldest London Playhouse still in use. Today the Haymarket strives to produce memorable theatrical experiences for audiences from around the world, and in 2018 Access Entertainment became the proud new owners of the Haymarket with the ambition to continue the theatre’s rich tradition of creative excellence and support for both the world’s greatest theatrical names and emerging and diverse new talent.
Fri 4 Dec - Fri 18 Dec
11:00 - 12:20
Theatre Show • 2-6 years • £12.00
SW1Y, Theatre Royal Haymarket
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!
Tue 27 Oct - Tue 10 Nov
12:30 - 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
Cirque Berserk!
Britain’s biggest theatre circus spectacular, CIRQUE BESERK!, is making a triumphant return to London’s West End for a strictly limited season at the Garrick Theatre from 21–31 October 2026. ‘Move over Hugh Jackman… this is the greatest show!’ Daily Star Cirque Berserk is back in the West End for half term! Britain’s biggest theatre circus spectacular is back by popular demand – with a brand new show featuring your favourite Cirque Berserk! acts plus some thrilling new ones! Don’t miss the world’s most hair-raising circus act – the legendary motorcycle ‘Globe of Death’, live on stage. KIDS GO HALF PRICE FOR HALF TERM! What is CIRQUE BESERK! about? Presented by Zippos, Cirque Berserk is Britain’s biggest and boldest theatre-circus spectacular showcasing the finest in circus thrills and skills, bringing this treasured form of live entertainment bang up-to-date in a jaw-dropping show created especially for the stage. Combining contemporary cirque-style artistry with adrenaline-fuelled stunt action, this astoundingly talented international troupe includes over thirty acrobats, aerialists and daredevil stuntmen showcasing the finest in traditional circus thrills and skills.
Tue 27 Oct - Fri 30 Oct
15:00 - 16:45
Theatre Show • 5 years+ • £30.00
WC2H, Garrick Theatre
West End Musical Christmas
The West End’s number one concert series WEST END MUSICAL CHRISTMAS returns to the Lyric Theatre for its biggest and most magical festive celebration yet. This Christmas, a surprise cast of the West End’s biggest stars will take to the stage for an unforgettable evening of music and festive cheer, to get audiences well and truly into the Christmas spirit. The set list remains a closely guarded secret, but expect a feast of heart-warming festive favourites, musical theatre classics and Yuletide surprises, building to an unforgettable Christmas party. Whether it’s your annual Christmas tradition or your first West End Musical concert, this is the festive night out that will leave you smiling long after the final encore. We wish you a musical Christmas! What is West End Musical Christmas about? This is a West End Musical concert ‘where the audience becomes the cast’, so warm up those vocal cords, get ready to sing your heart out, dance in the aisles and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year together
Mon 14 Dec - Mon 14 Dec
19:30 - 21:30
Theatre Show • 8 years+ • £24.00
W1D, Lyric Theatre
West End Musical Halloween
This Halloween the West End’s number one concert series returns to Lyric Theatre with another ghoulishly good evening for musical theatre lovers! – WEST END MUSICAL HALLOWEEN! This Halloween, a surprise cast of the West End’s biggest stars will once again haunt the Lyric Theatre with a thrilling concert celebrating the darker side of musicals. Expect wickedly entertaining showstoppers from Sweeney Todd, Little Shop of Horrors, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, The Phantom of the Opera, Hadestown, Beetlejuice and more. This is a West End Musical concert where the audience becomes the cast, so prepare to sing your heart out, dance the night away and enjoy a host of tricks, treats and devilish surprises at this spooktacular celebration. Whether you come in costume or just bring your best scream, this is one Halloween party no musical theatre fan will want to miss. It’s going to be a SCREAM! What is West End Musical Halloween about? Brought to you by the award-winning producers of West End Musical Brunch, Drive In, Celebration and Love Songs. This is a West End Musical concert ‘where the audience become the cast’, so get ready to sing and dance along and for a host of tricks and treats at this Spooktacular celebration!
Mon 2 Nov - Mon 2 Nov
19:30 - 21:30
Theatre Show • 6 years+ • £30.00
W1D, Lyric Theatre
Room on the Broom
Based on the book by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler Iggety ziggety zaggety zoom! Jump on board the broom with the witch and her cat in Tall Stories’ funfilled adaptation of ROOM ON THE BROOM at Lyric Theatre. Will there ever be room on the broom for the witch and her four passengers? Find out in the magical Olivier Award-nominated show for audiences aged 3 and up. From Tall Stories, creators of imaginative storytelling theatre, where everything is possible. What is Room on the Broom about? The witch and her cat are travelling on their broomstick when they pick up some hitch-hikers – a friendly dog, a beautiful green bird and a frantic frog. But this broomstick’s not meant for five and – CRACK – it snaps in two… just as the hungry dragon appears!
Tue 22 Dec - Wed 23 Dec
10:00 - 11:00
Theatre Show • 3-10 years • £12.00
W1D, Lyric Theatre
Cirque Alice
AN EXTRAORDINARY NEW SHOW FROM THE CREATORS OF THE GLOBAL SMASH HITS THE ILLUSIONISTS, CIRCUS 1903 AND LE NOIR! Step into magical ‘Wonderland’ as CIRQUE ALICE reimagines Lewis Carroll’s classic adventures with breathtaking twists and astonishing, gravity-defying feats. Starring the greatest acrobatic performers from around the globe, this magnificent spectacle features stunning performances by mesmerising aerialists, mind-bending contortionists, exquisite puppetry, dancers and special guest musical and comedic artists – set against an enthralling soundtrack of newly arranged contemporary renditions of some of the world’s favourite classical hits. A joyous acrobatic adventure filled with heart-stopping moments and unforgettable performances, CIRQUE ALICE is a fantastical extravaganza for all ages! What is Cirque Alice? Starring the greatest acrobatic performers from around the globe, this magnificent spectacle features stunning performances by mesmerising aerialists, mind-bending contortionists, exquisite puppetry, dancers and special guest musical and comedic artists – set against an enthralling soundtrack of newly arranged contemporary renditions of some of the world’s favourite classical hits.
Sat 12 Dec - Sun 3 Jan
19:30 - 21:30
Theatre Show • 5 years+ • £37.50
SE1, Southbank Centre
Billy Elliot The Musical
BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL is heading on a UK tour, and will be playing at London’s Adelphi Theatre in 2027 Seen by almost 12 million people across five continents and honoured with more than 80 awards worldwide, BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL is one of the most successful and beloved British musicals of all time. Ten years after it last played to audiences in its original home of London and the UK, this landmark production returns at last. Annette McLaughlin will play ‘Mrs Wilkinson’, Deka Walmsley ‘Dad’, Jack Bandeira ‘Tony’ and Lesley Joseph ‘Grandma’. This is the musical that took the nation by surprise and went on to conquer the world. Praised as ‘Breathtaking. A dazzling 40-carat gem of a show’ (Daily Mail), ‘Dazzling. A triumph’ (Independent on Sunday) and ‘Pure magic’ (Sunday Express), BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL returns as exhilarating, hilarious and unforgettable as ever, a defining British production finally coming home. What is Billy Elliot the Musical about? Set in a northern town during the miners’ strike of 1984/5, the show follows Billy’s journey from the boxing ring to the ballet class, where he discovers a passion for dance that will change his life forever. As Billy dares to dream, his courage unites his family, inspires his community, and proves the transformative power of art. Brought to life by the award-winning creative team behind the film, with iconic music by Elton John, Billy Elliot is an extraordinary theatrical experience that has captivated audiences around the world.
Mon 15 Feb - Wed 30 Jun
19:00 - 20:30
Theatre Show • 8 years+ • £35.50
WC2R, Adelphi Theatre
SIX The Musical
Sponsored Event Nominated for the WhatsOnStage Awards 2024 for Best West End Show Crowning glory of the West End, Broadway and beyond SIX, ‘the most uplifting piece of new British musical theatre,’ (Evening Standard) is holding court at London’s Vaudeville Theatre. Prepare to Lose Ur Head. Think you know the six wives of Henry VIII? Think again… Created by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, prepare to lose your head and experience the Tudor Wives’ lives as they turn back the clock and take to the stage to reclaim their crowns and retell their stories of love, loss and the infamous ex they all have in common. Join Aragon, Boleyn, Seymour, Cleves, Howard and Parr, backed by their fiercely all-female band, the Ladies in Waiting, and Get Down to a royal retelling of the sassiest story in British Her-story. Book your SIX theatre tickets and Get Down with LOVEtheatre today! What is Six the Musical about? Divorced. Beheaded. Live! You’ve heard the historical rhyme, but you’ve never heard it like this. For the first time ever, the six wives of the infamous Henry VIII take to the stage to tell their stories in a pop concert that takes inspiration from some of the biggest modern day artists. === This is a Loopla-managed event listing. Bookings are made directly on the LOVEtheatre website. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on any booking links.
Tue 27 Oct - Sat 19 Dec
20:00 - 21:20
Theatre Show • 10 years+ • £40.00
WC2R, Vaudeville Theatre
Santa's Grotto in Covent Garden
Brand new Grotto in the Garden launches as part of Christmas in the Garden, bringing one-to-one Santa visits to the heart of London. Increasingly rare in London's Christmas grottos, each child experiences five magical minutes of one-to-one time with Father Christmas; their own special moment and chance to share their Christmas wishes. Every child also receives a special gift from Santa, and a printed festive family trail that takes families out into Covent Garden and Seven Dials to discover London's Christmas lights and decorations. This is more than just a meeting with Santa, it's an experience for the whole family! Capture the moment: One of Santa's elves will take a Golden Polaroid photo of your visit for you to cherish forever! Just remember, this is a nostalgic photo - not a 4K digital shot, so each image will develop to its own colour and quality. Just like the old days! Simply add this to your booking.
Sat 21 Nov - Wed 23 Dec
10:00 - 10:30
Christmas Activities • 0m-12 years • £29.00
WC2E, St Paul's Church
Ms. Claus Storytime
Meet Ms. Claus - the daughter of Father Christmas - and discover the secrets of growing up in the north pole with Father Christmas as her dad! Ms. Claus grew up with one of the most famous fathers in the world, surrounded by reindeer, elves and the traditions of the North Pole. Her interactive storytelling experience will give children a glimpse into what it was really like growing up as Santa's daughter, including stories about the family's Christmas traditions and some of the little secrets of the reindeer and elves. But this isn't simply a story for children to sit and listen to. Ms. Claus will also ask children about their own Christmas traditions, making the experience a two-way conversation and celebrating the unique ways families make Christmas magical. The experience also includes a festive activity designed to give children something to enjoy and remember beyond their visit. The wider Christmas in the Garden event has a Christmas market, and food and drink available so there is not rush to leave. You can plan your Grotto visit accordingly. Please note: The Ms. Claus session does not include entry to the grotto, this is a separate activity. If you would like to book to see both Santa and Ms. Claus, please check the event agenda below and book tickets to both activities around those times.
Sat 21 Nov - Wed 23 Dec
11:00 - 12:00
Christmas Activities • 0m-12 years • £9.00
WC2E, St Paul's Church
The Smartest Giant in Town
George wishes he wasn't the scruffiest giant in town. But after a trip to a fancy clothes shop, he has a spectacular new look: smart trousers, a smart shirt, a stripy tie, and shiny shoes. Now he’s the smartest giant in town... until he bumps into some animals who desperately need his help - and his clothes! From the award-winning Little Angel Theatre (A Sguash and a Squeeze, Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book), and West End producers Fierylight (Peppa Pig, Bing, Octonauts and The BFG), comes this Olivier Award nominated heart-warming musical adventure. Packed with delightful puppets, catchy songs, and Julia Donaldson's beloved characters, it’s a beautiful tale about friendship and the joy of helping others.
Fri 11 Dec - Sun 3 Jan
11:00 - 11:55
Theatre Show • 2-10 years • £16.00
WC2H, St. Martins Theatre
Beetlejuice
Have the time of your afterlife with the ‘supernaturally fun, fun, fun’ (Radio Times) musical sensation BEETLEJUICE. Hailed as ‘hilarious’ (Independent) and an ‘absolute scream’ (The Standard), don’t miss the ‘drop-dead gorgeous’ (Guardian) Broadway spectacular at London’s Prince Edward Theatre – for a limited season only. Olivier nominee David Fynn (School of Rock) unleashes mayhem in a ‘sensational…unparalleled performance’ (Daily Express) as the iconic Beetlejuice in this ‘mercilessly entertaining celebration’ (Daily Mail) of Tim Burton’s beloved movie. Starring alongside him in an acclaimed cast is Hannah Nordberg (HBO’s Euphoria), giving a ‘dazzling West End debut’ (The Standard) as Lydia. Hailed as a ‘hallucinogenic spectacle’ (The Telegraph) bursting with ‘sets to die for’ (Daily Express) and ‘songs that are a blast’ (Sunday Express), BEETLEJUICE is the outrageous, life-affirming hit with a big (cold) heart. See it and you’ll want to make the most of every Day-O! But act dead quick – BEETLEJUICE only appears in the West End for a limited run only. What is Beetlejuice about? Meet Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager sharing her home with a pair of newly-deads and the demonic ghost with the most, Beetlejuice. He’s dead trouble, but if you really want to feel alive, just say his name three times…
Tue 27 Oct - Sat 2 Jan
19:30 - 22:10
Theatre Show • 12 years+ • £30.00
W1D, Prince Edward Theatre
Disney's The Lion King
Set against the majesty of the Serengeti Plains and to the evocative rhythms of Africa, Disney’s multi award-winning musical DISNEY’S THE LION KING will redefine your expectations of the stage at the Lyceum Theatre. Brilliantly re-imagined by acclaimed director Julie Taymor, Disney’s beloved film has been transformed into a spectacular theatrical experience that explodes with glorious colours, stunning effects and enchanting music. With music by Elton John, lyrics by Tim Rice, a musical score created by Hans Zimmer and choral arrangements by Lebo M, DISNEY’S THE LION KING songs include I Just Can’t Wait to Be King, The Circle of Life, Endless Night and Shadow Land. Book your DISNEY’S THE LION KING theatre tickets with LOVEtheatre today! What is The Lion King about? DISNEY’S THE LION KING is based on the much-loved 1994 Disney film of the same name. The musical features a large cast of actors in beautiful animal costumes and using large puppets. The Lion King is set in the beautiful African pride lands and follows the journey of Simba, from being a wide-eyed and fearless lion cub to being King. The Lion King has enjoyed 21 years in London and lights up the West End with glorious colours and powerful music. About The Lyceum Theatre The Lyceum Theatre in London is a long and complex tale of success, downfall and rebirth. It all started in 1772 when the Society of Arts founded a room for exhibitions and concerts near the site of the current building. Since this beginning the Lyceum has displayed a chameleon tendency, adapting to changing fashions and needs admirably. Now home to Disney’s ‘The Lion King,’ an average 760,000 patrons enjoy the Lyceum’s hospitality every year.
Tue 22 Dec - Tue 22 Dec
14:30 - 17:00
Theatre Show • 6 years+ • £39.00
WC2E, Lyceum Theatre
Cinderella
You shall go to the most magical ball in the land this Christmas as the world-famous London Palladium invites you to the dazzling rags-to-riches fairytale Cinderella. Comedy legends Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders reunite on the West End stage for the first time in 17 years as the wickedly hilarious Ugly Sisters, with incomparable panto sensation Julian Clary, wand in hand, as the glittering Fairy Godfather. Palladium panto favourites Paul Zerdin, Nigel Havers and Rob Madge are back by popular demand, joined by acclaimed TV and theatre star Dex Lee as Prince Charming, with musical theatre’s Hope Dawe stepping into the glass slippers as Cinderella. Expect the most spectacular costumes in Pantoland, dazzling special effects, riotous laughter and all the magic that has made The London Palladium the true home of pantomime for the past decade.
Sat 5 Dec - Sun 10 Jan
14:30 - 17:30
Theatre Show • 4 years+ • £69.50
W1F, London Palladium
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Free days out, and what free usually means
Many activities or events for days out in London with kids cost nothing. 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
Most 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, but this can be a problem. The moment it starts raining in half term, everybody has the same idea and looks for indoor kids activities in London.
If the forecast looks poor, book a timed slot the night before rather than arriving at eleven with the rest of the city...
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.
