The Best Things to Do in London with Kids & Teens This September (2026)

School’s back, the uniform labels are finally ironed on (hopefully), and the summer holidays are already starting to feel like a distant memory. The good news? September is the perfect time for family days out. The crowds have thinned, the weather is often still lovely, and there’s a packed calendar of festivals, outdoor events, theatre and exhibitions to keep weekends interesting.

Whether you’re looking for free things to do in London with kids, somewhere to take grandparents, or something that might actually tempt a teenager away from their bedroom, we’ve done the hard work for you. We’ve rounded up the best family days out this September, with prices, nearest stations, age guides, practical tips and honest advice to help you choose quickly.

Many of the attractions below also have their own dedicated KidRated pages packed with extra parent tips, reviews from real kids and FAQs to help you plan your day.

Totally Thames Festival

What is it?
Totally Thames is a month-long festival celebrating London’s river through art, performances, family activities, walks, talks and pop-up events. There are hundreds of events across London, many of them completely free, making it one of the easiest ways to explore different parts of the capital.
One of this year’s highlights is Turning the Tide – a spectacular free evening projection onto the disused Blackfriars Railway Bridge columns. Created by Turner Prize-nominated artist Catherine Yass in partnership with disabled-led theatre company Graeae, it celebrates disabled young actors through a striking visual installation that transforms the river into an open-air gallery.

Why kids like it: There are boats, riverside adventures, giant artworks, performers and plenty of space to wander. It feels more like discovering London than visiting an event.

KidRated Top Tips: Wear comfy shoes – you’ll probably end up walking further than planned. Evening projection is outdoors, so bring an extra layer.

Age: 6+ years (younger children will enjoy the projections, older children and teens will appreciate the scale)
Dates: Throughout September. Turning the Tide: 17 – 20 September (evenings)
Venue: Various. Turning the Tide: Blackfriars Railway Bridge
Nearest stations: Blackfriars, Southwark & Temple
Price: Most events are FREE

Big Dreams Early Years Theatre Festival

What is it?
Polka Theatre’s wonderful Early Years Festival returns with two days of theatre, puppetry, music, storytelling, dancing and free creative activities for children aged 0–8. It’s a brilliant introduction to live theatre, with performances taking place throughout the building.

Why kids like it
There’s always something happening, from colourful puppet shows to interactive performances and a family rave. It’s designed especially for younger children, so they can join in, explore and play.

KidRated Top Tips

• Make a day of it if you can.
• Don’t miss the free Hopeful Monsters cinema installation.
• Book two or more shows to save up to 15%.

Age: 0 – 8 years (varies by show)
Dates: 19 – 20 September 2026
Venue: Polka Theatre, Wimbledon
Nearest Stations: South Wimbledon or Wimbledon
Prices: Most shows £13. Free activities available.

Thelma & Louise – The Young Vic

What is it?
The classic Oscar-winning road movie has been transformed into a brand-new musical at the Young Vic. Featuring an original score by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Neko Case, it tells the story of two friends whose weekend escape turns into an unforgettable adventure about friendship, freedom and standing up for yourself.

Why kids like it
Older teens who enjoy musicals with a gripping story will love this fresh take on a modern classic. It’s emotional, funny and packed with memorable songs, making it a great introduction to more grown-up theatre.

KidRated Top Tips
This isn’t a family musical for younger children. We’d recommend it for older teenagers, particularly those studying drama or who enjoy powerful, character-driven stories.

Age: Recommended 14+ (parental guidance advised)
Dates: 3 September – 24 October 2026
Venue: Young Vic Theatre, 66 The Cut, London SE1
Nearest Stations: Waterloo (5-minute walk), Southwark
Prices: From around £15 (check the Young Vic website for current availability).

Private Peaceful – Wilton’s Music Hall

What is it?
A powerful one-person stage adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s beloved novel, following a young soldier looking back on his life on the eve of battle. It’s a moving story of family, love, and the toll of war.

Why kids like it
Older kids and teens will be drawn into Tommo’s emotional journey and the vivid characters, all portrayed by one talented actor. It’s both heartfelt and thought-provoking.

KidRated Top Tips
This is an ideal choice for kids 9+ who enjoy gripping stories or are learning about World War I in school.

Age: 9+
Dates: 21 – 23 September 2026
Venue: Wilton’s Music Hall, London
Nearest Station: Tower Hill or Aldgate East
Prices: Check venue for availability.

Pip and Posy Live on Stage – Little Angel Theatre

What is it?
The lovable friends from Axel Scheffler’s bestselling picture books and the BAFTA-nominated TV series make their stage debut in this gentle, playful adventure created especially for preschoolers.

Why kids like it
Pip and Posy are already favourites with many little ones, and seeing them brought to life with puppets, music and storytelling makes this a magical first theatre experience.

KidRated Top Tips
Perfect for first-time theatre-goers. Arrive early to enjoy the welcoming atmosphere and don’t worry if little ones can’t sit perfectly still, Little Angel Theatre is brilliantly family-friendly.

Age: 2 – 5 years
Dates: 19 September – 22 November 2026
Venue: Little Angel Theatre, Islington
Nearest Stations: Angel or Highbury & Islington
Prices: From around £15 (check website for latest prices)

The Pied Piper: A Rat’s Tale – Little Angel Theatre

What is it?
A clever and funny retelling of the classic Pied Piper story, told from a rat’s point of view. Expect imaginative puppetry, humour and plenty of surprises from one of London’s best children’s theatres.

Why kids like it
It’s packed with larger-than-life characters, inventive puppets and lots of laughs, while offering a fresh twist on a familiar tale.

KidRated Top Tips
Ideal for primary-aged children who enjoy storytelling and puppet theatre. Little Angel’s productions are always beautifully crafted and well worth seeing.

Age: 5+
Dates: 12 September – 7 November 2026
Venue: Little Angel Studios, Islington
Nearest Stations: Angel or Highbury & Islington
Prices: From around £15 (check website for latest prices)

Pocket Money – Unicorn Theatre

What is it?
A lively new interactive show that puts children in charge as they make real-time decisions about spending, saving and money. Mixing theatre, live music and audience voting, it’s a fun introduction to financial literacy in the digital age.

Why kids like it
Children don’t just watch, they take part. Every audience helps shape the show through live voting, while a mischievous clown and DJ keep the energy high from start to finish.

KidRated Top Tips
A great choice for curious 7 – 11 year olds. It’s entertaining first and educational second, so children learn about money without it ever feeling like a lesson.

Age: 7 – 11 years
Dates: 26 September – 1 November 2026
Venue: Unicorn Theatre, London Bridge
Nearest Stations: London Bridge
Prices: From around £14.50 (check website for latest prices)

Roald Dahl’s Birthday

If Roald Dahl was still alive today he would turn 110 years old on the 13th September. There are loads of things going on throughout the month to celebrate. Including, Roald Dahl day celebrations at the Roald Dahl Museum on 17th September and birthday celebrations at Waterstones Piccadilly on 11th September.

 

Great Fire 350

The Great Fire of London started on Pudding Lane on 2nd September 1666, 350 years ago this month. To commemorate, arguably the most famous fire ever, there are family events happening all over September. Check out our Fire of London itinerary too.

 

London Design Festival

This annual event promotes London as a city of creativity. There are loads of events to go to and things to see. This is perfect for budding artists, architects and designers. Head to the V&A for some great family friendly events.

 

17th – 25th September