Summer holidays in London with kids: 50+ things to do

Whether you live in the capital or are visiting the city for a family holiday, there are some great activities to enjoy during the summer holidays in London with kids this year.

contains affiliate links/paid collaboration*

From free summer days out in London with kids to festivals, exhibitions, activities, theatre performances, chances to get outdoors and reasons to tempt you into museums and galleries, you’ll be spoiled for choice, whatever your budget and however old your kids.

Many need prebooking, but there are options if you’re feeling spontaneous and just want to drop in, as well as ideas to take you from June and July right to the end of the school summer holidays in London in early September. Read on for my top picks, with more than 50 family days out.

For more places to cool down on hot days in London with kids, including attractions with air conditioning and London summer splash pads, check out my top picks

The Young V&A opens

After being closed for years, the London Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Green is reopening with a new look and a new name – the Young V&A – on July 1.

With its displays of toys and games, it has been a family favourite for years (not least for the nostalgia value), and the much-loved highlights will also be returning alongside some new future favourites – look out for Kermit the frog joining the collection.

However while the building is the same grand hall, kids have been involved in coming up with the redesigned look, now themed around three galleries: Play, Imagine and Design.

Best of all there are plenty of chances to get hands on, whether that’s performing on stage, listening to storytelling, creating Minecraft towns or hitting the sandpit, as well as new items going on display, with a total of 2,000 items to enjoy.

The other big museum reopening this summer is the National Portrait Gallery, back from June 22 – at present there are no specific family-friendly events but it’s a good option for teens

Medieval mayhem at the Tower of London

It’s time to celebrate King Charles – but this time it’s Charles II who’s in the spotlight, with the special Restoration at the Tower events.

Taking visitors back in time to 1661, the new event will look at how preparations were made for Charles II’s grand coronation procession – and the return of the country’s first king in a decade.

As well as discovering the planning which went in to that particular coronation, which saw the King process from the Tower to Westminster Abbey, you can meet some of the Merry Monarch’s close friends, including diarist Samuel Pepys.

Running to July 21, it’s included in tickets. Plus you can eye up the Crown Jewels and enjoy some more royal history – get discounted tickets using my code MUMMYTRAVELS6.

The Tower will also be displaying 14 uniquely illustrated Coronation benches across its vast grounds until September, designed by school children from all over the UK and Commonwealth as part of the Schools Coronation Competition. 

Gunpowder Plot immersive experience

Just around the corner from the Tower itself, older kids can also check out the  Gunpowder Plot immersive experience (recommended for age 10+) .

Whisking you back to the London of 1605, you need to unmask those behind the infamous plot, with a mix of live theatre and digital technology to bring the fevered atmosphere of the Jacobean city to life. Excludes entry to the Tower.

Henry VIII’s joust at Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace is reliving Henry VIII’s glory days from August 2-6, with a real Tudor joust at the king’s former home.

Famously a keen jouster himself – keep an eye out to see if the much-married monarch decides to take part – you’ll see the pomp, ceremony and splendour up close.

Pick your favourite knight, cheer him on to victory, jeer at his opponents and then brace yourself for the shattering moment when the lances collide to see who’ll be supreme.

Between jousting there will also be some spectacular falconry displays, as well as a chance to get close to the birds, plus the usual attractions from the Great Hall and historic apartments to the Tudor kitchens, the maze and the Magic Garden playground.

Turtle rescue at Sea Life aquarium

Help the turtles at  SeaLife London aquarium this summer, as you join the turtle and terrapins rescue team at the aquarium.

With turtles under threat, Sea Life sites help rescue many in the wild, but this summer they need your help too.

Grab a turtle patrol book to join the mission, then pick the breed of turtle you’re planning to help save, and keep a log of its details as you work through the different rescue stages.

You even get to name your turtle as part of the challenge. Who fancies ‘Shelly’?

Runs from July 22-September 3, alongside a chance to see the aquarium’s other inhabitants – over 500 species and 6,000 creatures in 14 themed zones and more than 2 million litres of water – with everything from Gentoo penguins to sand tiger sharks.

Well worth prebooking during school holidays, there are usually discounts if you buy online in advance as well as combined tickets to other Merlin attractions.

As a bonus, it’s one of the London attractions with air conditioning if you need to cool down

Prince Charming at Shrek’s Adventure

It’s not just the UK getting a new king this year – there’s a new monarch being crowned this summer at Shrek’s Adventure as well.

Take on the challenge to see if you’re the hero that Far Far Away needs, as you try to remove the sword from the stone, before taking your rightful place on the throne if you pass the test.

Just watch out for Prince Charming, who’s still sulking about the fact he isn’t any closer to becoming King.

Runs from July 22 to September 3, along with the the usual fun for Shrek fans, exploring the world of Far Far Away, encountering Princess Fiona and Donkey and an adventure on the 4D flying bus.

Included in standard entry, prebooking recommended

Discover Hogwarts at Warner Bros Studio tour

The Warner Bros Studio tour is turning 11 this year – and like the lucky magical 11-year-olds who get an owl on their birthday, the focus is on discovering Hogwarts.

Brand new for 2023, visitors are invited to explore Harry’s early years at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, with some favourite scenes brought to life.

For the first time since filming, over 400 floating candles will adorn the enchanted ceiling of the Great Hall, you can try your hand at casting some of the earliest magic Harry performed (and find out just how it was done in the films) and learn how you bring a half-giant to life.

Runs until September 4, along with the usual attractions, from riding broomsticks to drinking butterbeer, spotting the Hogwarts Express, walking into the Forbidden Forest, watching a dragon rampage through Gringotts bank and meeting other magical creatures.

Get more tips for visiting Harry Potter studio tour with kids, and you can also book tickets with a coach transfer here or direct via Golden Tours.

The Secret Life of Reptiles at London Zoo

London Zoo’s newest major exhibit is opening this summer, revealing the Secret Life of Reptiles and Amphibians.

Housing 26 species, the new exhibit will also be using the latest technology to bring eight different habitats to life, from the rainforests of South America to Asia’s mountain jungles.

Meet the rare (and oddly named) Mountain Chicken frog, the equally rare Mangshan viper – beautiful but deadly – and a whole string of other fascinating creatures.

The exhibit is due to open on August 1. Advance booking is essential, so grab your tickets soon to avoid missing out on one of the most fun but educational summer days out in London with kids.

Jurassic World: The Exhibition

Watch out for dinosaurs in the Docklands – Jurassic World: The Exhibition, a 20,000-square-foot immersive experience has had new dates added so you can still see it at ExCeL London this summer.

Based on the blockbuster movies, you’ll be greeted by a velociraptor, T-rex and a brachiosaurus, before encountering life-size dinosaurs roaming through the site – not to mention some baby dinos.

Designed to mimic earth’s environment back in the days when these prehistoric creatures did stalk the globe, it’s a fantastically fearsome summer day out in London with kids.

Runs to October 1, prebook tickets here – best for age 8+ although open to all, it’s accessible via the Elizabeth Line from central London. Allow around 45 minutes to one hour, although you can stay as long as you want.

Summer of Invention at the Postal Museum

Embrace a Summer of Invention at the Postal Museum, inspired by the museum’s Mail Rail train.

It’s 20 years since the mini train transported its last bit of post under London’s streets – although there’s still a chance to be transported around in it yourself – as well as lots more family-friendly activities.

Learn more about innovations from stamps and sorting machines to robot technology, as you unleash your inner engineer.

Plus you can create your own new inventions with some of the arts and crafts and games taking place, as well as enjoying interactive shows and object handling. Each week will be dedicated to a different STEAM theme – science, technology, engineering, arts and maths – with challenges to test your problem-solving skills.

Included in the standard museum ticket – get a discount if you book through my link using the code MUMMYTRAVELS6. Sessions are drop-in, so no need to prebook, but it’s first come first served, so be sure to get to the museum early. Runs from July 27-August 26.

On July 24 and August 21, there’s a Post Early event, aimed at anyone who would benefit from visiting the museum when it’s quieter and less crowded – find more details here, spaces limited

Time Travel Club at the National Archives

A perfect day out for kids who love getting creative, the Time Travel Club at the National Archives in Kew includes a series of family activities from crafts to the chance to come up with your own inventions.

Get inspired by the archives to design with your own moving toy or automaton, learn how previous inventors thought up their ideas and even try your hand at coding.

Themes for the sessions vary and there are different activities for different ages – prebooking essential.

Mermaids at the Charles Dickens Museum

There are some unexpected visitors to Charles Dickens’ home this summer with two great family-friendly events taking place at the Charles Dickens Museum.

Myths and Mermaids is inspired by some of the fantastical creatures in Dickens’ stories, and his friendship with Hans Christian Andersen, who published his own famous story of The Little Mermaid in the same year that Dickens moved in to 48 Doughty Street.

With crafts, inspiration to write their own stories, puppet theatre and more, Myths and Mermaids takes place on August 2, 3 and 4, at 10.30am, 11.30am, 1pm and 2pm, aimed at children aged 5+ (tickets include entry into the museum).

Or check out the fun 45-minute immersive event, Dickens’s Party Gone Wrong, where the guests are expected and Gracie the housemaid is in a terrible mess and urgently needs some help – kids lend a hand to whip up lemonade, create origami flowers and use quill and ink to redo the party invitations.

Takes place on August 16 at 10.30am, 11.30am, 1pm and 2pm, aimed at kids aged 5+ (tickets include entry into the museum.

Family events at Westminster Abbey

Step inside one of London’s most famous landmarks this summer with family tours and activities at Westminster Abbey.

With a summer fete planned in July, there are expected to be more events announced this summer too.

Previous years have included a family highlights tour is tailored especially for families, with lots of fascinating stories of the people who have filled the abbey over its long history, as well as family days and activities, such brass rubbing, ancient arts and mind-bending riddles, and science and nature days.

Family events are often free with Abbey entry – tickets can be prebooked here.including a discount if you book through my link using the code MUMMYTRAVELS6.

Science Fiction: Power Up

The hugely popular Power Up is back for the summer, giving kids (and big kids) the chance to lose themselves in five decades of gaming. With 160 consoles, and the best video games of the past 50 years, you can take on your family at MarioKart, play retro favourites like Pong and Pacman, or show off your Minecraft moves.

There’s childhood nostalgia for the grown-ups, and the chance for your kids to beat you hands down in multiplayer battles, as well as the opportunity to try some next-gen virtual reality experiences.

Entry to the museum is free (though prebooking advised), but you’ll need to buy a day pass (or annual pass) to visit Power Up.

The new Engineers Gallery has also just opened, plus there’s the final weeks of Science Fiction: Voyage to the Edge of Imagination to enjoy, extended to August 20.

Aimed at kids aged 8+, the immersive event takes you on your own science fiction adventure as you board a spaceship, scout an unknown planet and investigate how both scientists and the creators of science fiction have imagined and built new worlds, along with objects from film, TV, and books, artwork and photography. There’s a separate charge for this event too.

Family fun at the Cutty Sark

Meet the characters of the Cutty Sark, from the charismatic captain to the young apprentice and hard-working dock hands, every day over the school holidays.

This summer, the popular Greenwich attraction is putting on family trails, character performances, and plenty of other activities to keep kids of all ages engaged and entertained.

And for even more family fun, visit on August 5-6 for their monthly family fun weekend. The special event features workshops, games, activities, and experiences for kids of all ages.

Little explorers can sing sea shanties with the captain and dress up as a member of the crew, plus there’s the chance to design and construct your own balloon-powered yacht, before challenging your family a race.

All family activities are included in a regular entry ticket – prebooking is recommended.

Get a discount if you book through my link using the code MUMMYTRAVELS6

Family activities at HMS Belfast

For more nautical fun this summer, head to the HMS Belfast for a whole host of family activities.

From July 22 to September 3, as well as weekends in June and July, kids can earn their Sea Legs in an interactive activity that involves them completing fun tasks around the ship.

This year’s theme is Lost Laundry, after one sailor has lost his kit – with almost 800 ratings wearing nearly identical uniform, it was a genuine challenge to stop that happening! Find the 10 lost items around the Main Deck as part of the family trail, before making your own cut-out uniform to take home, and trying on real items from a sailor’s kit.

Plus don’t miss HMS Belfast’s dedicated family days every Friday in August. These events welcome some special guests who will draw upon their personal experiences at sea to fascinate little one with their amazing stories.

Prebooking advised – get a discount if you book through my link using the code MUMMYTRAVELS6.

Story Seekers at Imperial War Museum

There’s a new series of themes for IWM London’s Story Seekers sessions, including a celebration of the Windrush 75 anniversary.

Running from July 22 to September 3, the family-friendly activities are designed to help kids learn about specific individuals who came to Britain on the Empire Windrush, including former servicemen and women.

You can also join Flight Academy to discover more about the forces behind flight and create the world’s best paper plane using a world-record-breaking design, as well as other paper versions of famous aircraft – before challenging your family to see whose goes furthest. The record, by the way, is 69m…

All activities aimed at children aged 5+ and included in entry, which is free – timed entry slots available so prebooking recommended, as you may have to queue otherwise at busy times.

Mediaeval Season at Eltham Palace and Gardens

Discover what life was like in medieval times at Eltham Palace and Gardens this summer with their family-friendly Mediaeval Season events.

From jester workshops, archery, and defence skills, to storytelling, squire training, and lessons in courtly etiquette, there are plenty of activities for kids to try – the activities change week to week, so if you’ve got your heart set on sword-fighting or trying on armour, check the schedule to see what’s on.

Takes place from July 22-28 and July 31 to September 3, it’s free for members or non-members can get discounted entry if you book online in advance – walk-up tickets may be available on the day as well though.

And don’t miss the legendary joust on July 29-30, with four knights competing for honour and glory in the medieval joust, testing their lances against their adversaries as their horses thunder along the course.

Horrible Histories: Up in the Air Adventure at RAF Museum

Horrible Histories is coming to Hangar 2 at the Royal Air Force Museum this summer, with everything you need to know about the history of flight, from triumph to disaster (and the downright daft).

As well as spying some iconic aircraft, there will be challenges, crafts, puzzles and activities to enjoy, as well as a chance to meet a few pilots of the past who are legendary for all the wrong reasons!

With six themed areas, you can head to the Engineer’s workshop to design your own parachute and flying machine, get creative making a pair of flying goggles or wartime message streamers, cracking codes and hearing stories of unforgettable bravery.

Taking place from July 22 to September 3, tickets cost £7.50 and numbers are limited so prebooking strongly advised. The RAF museum itself is free, although must also be prebooked, with a free Twinkletoes Trail for kids running during the summer.

Shakespeare’s Globe Family Workshops

For an interactive and educational way to get your kids interested in the works of William Shakespeare, join the Globe’s Family Workshops this summer holidays in London.

Led by some of the theatre’s talented actors, teachers, and directors, these practical workshops will explore the language, characters, and themes of the plays in a variety of engaging activities and games.

And with activities such as family sword-fighting on the bill too, they’re the perfect way to introduce kids to one of the world’s most iconic playwrights.

Focused around A Midsummer Night’s Dream this summer, there are options for two different age groups (5-8 and 9-12), so it’s easy to tailor to your kids. 

Wet and Bubbly at London Museum of Water & Steam

For one of the most unusual summer days out in London with kids, head to the little Museum of Water & Steam in Brentford, west London, where playtime begins on July 22.

With a whole string of hands-on activities, including workshops for ages 8-11 and the Wet and Bubbly Science Show, it’s a chance to learn while having lots of fun – and getting very wet!

The activities run until August 28, and the museum is open from 10am-4pm from Wednesday to Sunday, plus Bank Holiday Monday.

The activities are included in admission and don’t need to be prebooked, although you can book entry to the museum, including annual passes. The museum is walking distance from Kew Bridge station.

What use is a tunnel? at the Brunel Museum

Do you know how many tunnels there are leading under the Thames – and why they’re there? That’s the inspiration behind the family events this summer at the Brunel Museum in Rotherhithe.

The Thames Tunnel at the museum has had far more uses than purely a means for people (and then trains) to traverse the river, acting as concert hall, banquet space, shopping mall, fair and workplace.

There’s a trail to help families learn about Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s first project, with clues to tell you some of the precious items transported, and what happened to the tunnel after it was finished.

Plus kids are asked to imagine what the new tunnel currently being dug under the Thames might be used for in the future. Trail included in entry to the museum, a family ticket costs £10 for up to two adults and four kids.

Summer at Chelsea Physic Garden

Chelsea Physic Garden is running a series of educational workshops this summer for some outdoor fun for the whole family. 

Events include workshops on carnivorous and tropical plants, making a dinosaur habitat, family seed excavation, and more. Check the website for the exact schedule. Tickets for the workshops also include entry to the garden.

There’s also the chance to join Wild Immersive Theatre and embark on a journey into wonderland with Alice in Wonderland at Chelsea Physic Garden from August 14-20 (excluding Saturday 19). The family-friendly show runs six times each morning and lasts around one hour.

For more ideas of great summer theatre in London with kids, scroll down, including the Kids Week discounts on a string of family-friendly shows in the West End.

Discovery days at Hyde Park

Hyde Park’s ever-popular discovery days return this summer for some of the best free activities during the school summer holidays in London.

Taking place every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday during the school holidays, at the park’s LookOut Discovery Centre, this year’s themes have yet to be announced.

But the drop-in activities encourage adults and children to connect with nature together, so you’ll normally find nature trails, arts and crafts, orienteering, and lots more.

Limited numbers so prebooking is recommended where possible.

Kids Summer Splash at Royal Docks

Head to the beach without leaving the capital this summer with Kids Summer Splash at Royal Docks in east London.

The event from July 31-August 20 sees the Royal Docks kitted out with large sandpits, deck chairs, pop-up cafes and bars, and dedicated swimming areas. Grab your swimwear and a bucket and spade, and spend a fun family day out swimming in the lido and building sandcastles right in the heart of the city.

You’ll also find a series of free family events taking place at the Royal Docks over the school holidays, as well as new art installations and projects. With so much going on, it’s a great destination for a fun family day out in London this summer.

Drawn to Water: Quentin Blake at WWT London

Collect an illustrated guide full of Quentin Blake’s drawings to see nature through different eyes as you journey around the wetlands – the first in a collection of new seasonal trails being launched, each with a different illustrated guide to collect and keep.

As well as enjoying the beautiful wetlands and the play areas, there are also a string of art and illustration activities, nature-inspired creative challenges and more family fun planned.

Drawn to Water: Quentin Blake at WWT is included in entry – tickets can be prebooked online but it’s not essential. Runs to September 10

Summer Lights at Canary Wharf

Light trails aren’t just for winter, and for the past couple of summers, Canary Wharf has had its Summer Lights trail of installations.

Designed to celebrating the beauty of natural light and long summer days, the artworks have been intended to look their best with the summer light shining on and through them, creating patterns and reflections to transform the outdoor areas of Canary Wharf into sparkling, colourful spaces.

2023’s event is not yet confirmed, but you can check for the latest details on the website.

Summer in the Courtyard at Somerset House

The courtyard at Somerset House gets a seasonal makeover for Summer in the Courtyard running from August 1-28.

The series of free events include a space for families to enjoy the fountains (switched on on selected dates) as well as the food and drink pop-ups.

And at weekends, there will be a series of live events and performances celebrating inclusivity. Some details still to be announced.

Family workshops at Sir John Soane’s Museum

There’s a fun Lego drop-in session at Sir John Soane’s Museum in August, inspired by designing and building your own dream houses.

Entry to the museum is free, as is the Dream Lego Houses event – no prebooking required, drop-in durnig the day with your regular museum ticket. The session runs between 2pm and 4pm on August 10.

Mudlarking at the Guildhall Art Gallery

End the summer holidays by delving back into London’s past with a special Mudlarking exhibition at the Guildhall Art Gallery, part of the Totally Thames 2023 celebrations.

Mudlarkers, who comb the Thames for artefacts from the city’s long history, have discovered anything from prehistoric flints to Roman and Tudor pieces, with an exhibition showing off some of the best.

Taking place at the gallery on Sepember 2 and 3, you can discover more about life in Londinium almost 2,000 years ago. More details to come from the Thames Festival Trust, plus additional events planned later in the month at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, and the Museum of London Docklands.

The Kaleidoscope Festival at Ally Pally

The famed summer festivals at Alexandra Palace are always perfect for the entire family – and this year, there’s plenty to tempt you out to north London.

The Kaleidoscope Festival takes place on Saturday July 15 and features a packed schedule of live bands, DJs, comedians, and more. 

For families, you’ll find plenty of fun activities and mini-parties for the little ones too, including magicians, games, arts and crafts, and a mini Land Rover adventure. 

Kensington and Chelsea Festival

The third Kensington and Chelsea Festival will be running from July 1 to August 31 with a series of activities, child-friendly shows, public art and workshops throughout the borough.

The full programme is online, with highlights including Luke Jeram’s Mars appearing in three different London locations, as well as plenty for families to enjoy, whether you’re visiting with younger kids or teens.

Check out everything from oversized swings (including aerial dance and a chance to try them yourselves), family circus workshops (and circus performances), theatre inspired by Roald Dahl, as well as dance, outdoor arts, talks, walks and lots more.

Around 70% of the festival programme is free or pay what you want, with over 70 events in total.

Bartholomew Fair, City of London

Starting right at the end of the summer holidays, the historic Bartholomew Fair is returning to the City of London from August 31 until September 16.

The original fair entertained visitors for over 700 years, running from 1133-1855 – and while the new outdoor fair won’t be quite what medieval London would recognise, it’s a great way to ease yourself from holidays into autumn.

With family-friendly performances, workshops and other entertainment, you could discover everything from The Dodo Rider to street cabaret, hot air balloons, plus creative workshops for families from Tootles and Nibs, ranging from clowning and circus activities to print making.

In between, you can chill out at The Garden, the fair’s family hub. For more details of the full programme and locations where the events take place, check out the Bartholomew Fair website.

Cruise along the Thames

See some of the biggest sights in London from the water, with 20% off City Cruises boat tours, using code CC20 until the end of this year.

The discount applies to sightseeing boat cruises. Check out the complete set of Thames cruises and experiences to book.

Making Magic: 100 years of Disney at BFI Southbank

Disney fans can’t miss this celebration of the company’s centenary with screenings, singalongs and talks at the BFI on the South Bank.

You can watch some of the earliest movies, including Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Fantasia and Cinderella, as well as Pixar favourites, live-action films (from Hocus Pocus to Dead Poet’s Society) and modern hits such as Frozen.

Perfect for a rainy day in London during the summer holidays (or any day for Disney fans!) Runs from July 6 to August 31.

Gorilla trail at Covent Garden

Watch out for the gorillas at Covent Garden this summer. There’s a new trail of 15 life-sized gorilla sculptures dotted around the area, including the Piazza and nearby streets such as Seven Dials.

Arriving on July 14, the great ape artworks are aiming to support African conservation charity Tusk and will be staying until October, when they’ll be auctioned off.

Each designed by a different artist, there’s also a trail map to follow to make sure you see them all – find more details on the Covent Garden website.

Summer by the River at London Bridge City

Head down to the riverside between London Bridge and Tower Bridge to check out some of the summer events taking place as part of London’s biggest free outdoor festival.

Summer by the River runs until September 1, with a string of extra events taking place before September 2, as well as the Morph trail of sculptures to spot, plus outdoor cinema including Matilda.

12 statues from Morph’s Epic Art Adventure are appearing on the riverside from June 19 to August 20, out of 56 giant Morphs in total. The free public art trail is designed to showcase the work of artists from across the country, and there’ll be a selfie bench along the way too.

Kids week theatre deals

If you needed any extra excuse to visit the theatre during the school holidays in London with kids, the special Kids Week discounts are the perfect temptation to book.

No longer covering just a week, Kids Week includes a whole month of theatre deals where kids can see some of London’s top shows and family-friendly performances for free.

As well as one child under 17 getting in free per paying adult, two more kids can also get half-price rates – and while many of the best tickets get snapped up as soon as they go on sale in June, there are still deals available throughout July and August itself.

This year, shows include Frozen, The Smeds and the Smoos, The Tiger Who Came to Tea, Horrible Histories: Terrible Tudors, Back to the Future, Mrs Doubtfied and Wicked, among others. Click to book and to check out the kids eat free discounts also available in August.

For more ideas on saving money on days out in London with kids this summer, check out my top tips

Open-air theatre during the summer holidays in London

As well as the West End productions, summer always sees a string of classic and modern children’s tales adapted for the stage and performed out in the open air – a great way to introduce younger kids to the theatre.

Perform in the Park

You’ll find a choice of performances for different ages at the ‘Perform in the Park‘ summer children’s festival. Taking place in a pop-up tent in Coram’s Fields, this year’s series includes four fantastic musicals aimed at kids aged 2-14.

For the youngest, there’s The Three Billy Goats Gruff (recommended ages 2-7) and Elephant and Piggie’s “We are in a play” (ages 3-8), plus options for older children, including Caribbean-themed adventure Mermaids & Pirates (ages 4-11) and The Dream (ages 7-14), inspired by Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream… but with a very modern update.

Alice in Wonderland at Kew Gardens

Find Alice, the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts and more in the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew this summer, with performances of Alice in Wonderland between July 22 and August 28. Taking place Wednesday to Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday, the 70-minute shows are aimed at kids aged 5+.

Garden entry included in the ticket.

Dinosaur World Live at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre

There’s theatre with a difference at Regent’s Park this summer with Dinosaur World Live interactive show taking you to a prehistoric world in a Jurassic adventure that’s perfect for kids aged 3+.

Bad Dad at Osterley House

There’s a new production based on a David Walliams book at Osterley Park & House this summer, with the story of Frank, who tries to break his innocent father out of prison in Bad Dad on August 3.

Open-air theatre at Morden Hall Park

There’s not one but several family-friendly open-air theatre performances on at Morden Hall Park this year (where we previously watched a fantastic production of the Jungle Book) – the Wizard of Oz, The Tales of Peter Rabbit, Bad Dad and Dr Dolittle are all on the playbill during July and August.

Catch an open-air movie

Swap indoors for outdoors with a string of family films on show at London’s open-air cinemas this summer.

Pop-up screens is back at locations including Fulham, Brockley, Hammersmith and Crystal Palace, with films including The Greatest Showman. Click here for more details.

Screen on the canal has one of the most fun locations in London, with seats on grassy steps by the banks of Regent’s Canal near Granary Square, King’s Cross. Even better, the Everyman Cinema festival is free to watch (but unticketed, so make sure you arrive early) with movies from Lyle, Lyle Crocodile to Beauty And The Beast and Frozen 2. From June 22 to August 6.

Luna cinema has some great family favourites on at its open-air showings this summer, including Wandsworth Park, Chiswick Park, Kenwood, Westminster Abbey, Kensington Palace and Hampton Court Palace, along with Regent’s Park and Kew Gardens, where you can enjoy anything from a Frozen singalong and Moana to Matilda The Musical.

Summer holidays at Hamleys

A trip to Hamleys is always one of the most popular family days out in London year-round, based on the London with Kids Facebook group that I help to run. But during the summer holidays the huge toy store does its best to make the experience even more memorable.

While details are still being released, you can usually find all sorts of special activities at both the Westfield and Regent Street stores.

Previous years have included everything from dinosaur encounters and Jedi Knight training to space hopper races, puppet shows, and Hamley Bear meet and greets.

More summer days out in London with kids: ongoing

There are some great activities and exhibitions running throughout the summer holidays, including tours ending in September – so seize your last opportunity now.

For more ideas of the best things to do in London with kids, check out my top picks, as well as the best places to keep cool in London over summer

Join a Coronation bus tour

Tootbus launched a special Royal Blue Route to celebrate the Coronation earlier this year, and there’s still a chance to enjoy the live guided tours taking you past London’s major royal sites, including Buckingham Palace, Lambeth Palace, Horse Guards Parade, Westminster Abbey, Kensington Palace plus The Royal Mews and The Queen’s Gallery.

Running until September 1, once you’ve finished the circuit by bus, you can also take a free self-guided Tootwalk: Royal walking tour using the Tootbus app, starting from Buckingham Palace – designed to last around 40 minutes.

Book tickets online to get 10% off.

Escape Room at the Golden Hinde + Night Voyage

Sleep aboard The Golden Hinde – the replica of Sir Francis Drake’s ship on the Thames near London Bridge – as part of the special Night Voyage events back this summer.

This unique sleepover sees you discovering everything from the harsh realities of ship’s discipline to the equally alarming reality of Tudor medicine, as well as games, a chance to meet the ship’s Master over grog and hard tack (which looks very much like apple juice and biscuits) and learning some very unexpected facts.

There’s also dinner aboard before settling down to sleep – via a quick battle with the Spanish. Having been aboard myself, I’d say don’t expect the best night’s sleep but it’s an unforgettable experience. Takes place on July 22 and August 27.

Read what we thought about the Night Voyage on the Golden Hinde in my full review

If that doesn’t take your fancy, take on another challenge with Escape from The Golden Hinde which introduces you to the two histories of the ship – the original one which sailed in 1577, and the reconstruction built in the 1970s, as part of an escape room.

Players have an hour to solve the puzzles, and while it’s aimed at those aged 10+, younger kids will also have fun as part of a family group – and for now, under-10s go free. Sessions take place on dates through July and August (check here for the latest availability).

See how we fared when we took on the Escape from the Golden Hinde escape room challenge

Meet Titanosaur at the Natural History Museum

Come face to face (almost) with one of the biggest creatures that ever lived, at the ongoing exhibition on the colossal titanosaur, joining the much-loved dinosaurs of the Natural History Museum.

Four times heavier than Dippy the Diplodocus and 12 metres longer than Hope the blue whale, who hangs in the Hintze Hall, the interactive exhibition gives visitors the chance to see this gigantic dinosaur close up as you follow its life from football-sized egg to fully grown adult.

Kids can get hands on handling some of the specimens in the displays as well as learning just how a behemoth this size could have survived (and thrived) on earth – measure yourself against its thigh bone, peer into its massive skull… and you can even smell its poo.

On display in Europe for the first time, the exhibition runs to January 2024. Tickets include Museum entry and prebooking is strongly recommended.

Get a scavenger hunt for the Natural History Museum, Science Museum and more with this bundle of five trails…

The Wander Project at Kew Gardens

There’s always a riot of colours to enjoy at Kew Gardens throughout the summer, but this year you can head out on adventure with five new trails to help you explore.

Each is made up of invitations from artists, musicians, and environmental protectors to feel, hear, move, and think differently in nature.

The Adventurer’s trail encourages you experience the world from different angles – even upside down near the Treetop walkway – while wannabe Wanderers can head to the lakeside, Protectors focus on sustainability around the Temperate House, Dreamers can be wowed at the Palm House and Time Travellers are whisked away in the Redwood Grove.

Included in entry. Prebooking tickets to Kew Gardens is advised.

For more tips on visiting Kew Gardens with kids, check out my advice here

There are also performances of The Jungle Book taking place at Kew this summer – scroll up for details

Buckingham Palace

If you’re fascinated by the royal family, where else should you start than the monarch’s own official residence? While you can get a glimpse of the exterior of Buckingham Palace year-round, you can only venture indoors for a 10-week period with the State Rooms opening on July 14.

As well as seeing the Ballroom and White Drawing Room, you can visit the Throne Room – although the chances are, the king won’t be in residence (to check, take a peek at the flagpole before you go in: if it’s flying the Royal Standard, Charles III is at home but if it’s the Union Flag, he’s currently elsewhere).

The Palace gardens are also open during the summer months, while the Queen’s Gallery is also open year-round (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays) – prebook tickets here.

And you can also see some of the famous carriages (and horses in the stables) at the Royal Mews.

Check out my tips for visiting Buckingham Palace with kids, including the 2023 Coronation exhibition

Tower Bridge

There are regular family activities during school holidays at Tower Bridge, as well as the chance to stand on the glass walkway and look down, before heading into the engine rooms.

This summer, there will be a string of drawing and crafting activities focused around semaphore on July 15 and 25, between 10am and 4pm on the West Walkway – included in the ticket, they’re drop-in sessions.

If you’d like a chance of seeing the bridge’s impressive opening as a bigger boat comes through, check the lift times.

Brick Dinos at the Horniman Museum

One of the best things to do in London this summer holidays with younger children is to pay a visit to the Horniman Museum, which is home to an exhibition of dinosaur models created from Lego.

At Brick Dinos at Horniman Museum, there’s the chance to see a string of other prehistoric giants as well – fortunately recreated in miniature form. Look out for the life-sized flying pterosaur, as well as other rarely seen specimens from the Horniman’s collection.

There are opportunities for kids to get hands on too, including building your own dinosaur and digging for fossils.

Entry to the Horniman Museum is free, but tickets to Brick Dinos costs £9 for adults, £4.50 for children (free for under-threes). Prebooking recommended.

Crown to Couture at Kensington Palace

If your kids are more interested in ballgowns than bunting, the impressive Crown to Couture exhibition at Kensington Palace combines fashion and royalty to take visitors from the glittering world of the royal Georgian court to today’s red carpet.

With over 200 objects on display – from the famous Silver Tissue Gown worn at the court of Charles II right through to Lady Gaga’s luminous green MTV Awards dress, the exhibition also looks at how 18th century aristocrats are still influencing today’s high fashion.

Included with admission, prebooking is recommended. The exhibition runs to October 29.

Check out my review of the Crown to Couture exhibition with kids

Dopamine Land

Don’t miss the chance to venture into Dopamine Land, before it closes in London – now extended to the end of July.

The multisensory experience combines media, technology and play, with a series of colourful installations to help all ages get in touch with their inner child – and all designed to raise a smile on a grey day.

Twist Museum of Illusions

There are some new exhibits joining the illusions at Twist Museum – perfect for a rainy day during the summer holidays in London with kids (or a sunny one for that matter).

With over 60 exhibits showing different illusions and displays to trick all your different senses, the interactive experience is fun for all ages. 

Check out our review of a visit to Twist Museum London with kids

Frameless

The UK’s largest, permanent digital art exhibition in Marble Arch, Frameless lets kids – and big kids – experience artworks like never before.

Set within a 30,000 square foot space, with four separate galleries, visitors can discover key moments in art history, with state-of-the-art projection and motion sensor technology to bring to life work from artists including Cezanne, Kandinsky, Monet, Canaletto, Rembrandt and Klimt.

There’s also a new summer picnic box, inspired by Bosch’s ‘The Garden of Earthly Delights’ which you can order for an art-inspired picnic in Hyde Park afterwards

Follow a Treasure Map Trail

These lovely colourful treasure hunt-style maps include three routes in central London – and there’s 10% off is you use the code MUMMYTRAVELS.

A fun way to explore London with kids, the hunts challenge you to spot all kinds of quirky sights, from signs and statues to carvings, all enlivened with a fun fantasy design to transform the real life streets.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links – any purchases you make are unaffected but I may receive a small commission – and paid promotion. All opinions remain my own.

Images Jurassic World as copyright on the photo; Dickens Museum copyright Lewis Bush/Charles Dickens Museum; City Cruises courtesy City Experiences; London City Hall courtesy London Bridge City; turtle/ Westminster Abbey/HMS Belfast/Eltham Palace/Globe Theatre/Somerset House/Natural History Museum/Buckingham Palace courtesy of Depositphotos; Alexandra Palace via Picfair; Mars copyright Emilija Jefremova (courtesy of the Kensington & Chelsea festival); all others copyright MummyTravels

LIKED THIS? SIGN UP FOR MY EMAIL NEWSLETTER