The best family days out in London and beyond rated by kids and teens
What’s fun to do in London this summer for families, kids and teens? Loads of things! So here’s our pick of the city’s best festivals, events and activities. And remember to check out our Things to Do section for more ideas including 50 Things to do in London for Teens and 100 Quirky Things to do in London with Kids and Teens. You’re welcome!
Embark on extraordinary Summer Holiday adventures with our partners at Merlin. Click on the links for the very best prices and offers – or here for your Merlin Annual Pass.
Includes the London Eye; SEA LIFE London Aquarium; Madame Tussauds, London Dungeon, Shrek’s Adventure, Thorpe Park, Chessington World of Adventures Resort. and Legoland Windsor. Finally for those who want to travel further afield – check out Alton Towers, Warwick Castle, Cadbury World and Blackpool Tower.
And remember Merlin also do THREE MONTH PASSES from £59 for LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort! Chessington World of Adventures Resort and Thorpe Park.
Thames Rocket – London’s Ultimate Speeding Adventure
No matter your age, chances are you’ve read or watched Paddington. Now, you can walk right into his world with a new immersive experience at County Hall. Join Paddington and the Browns as they prepare for the biggest party Windsor Gardens has ever seen – to celebrate Marmalade Day.
Start your adventure at Paddington Station, journey past London’s iconic sights, explore the Browns’ house room by room, and even venture into the jungle of Peru. Wrap it all up with a celebration at Windsor Gardens, but don’t forget to swing by Mr. Gruber’s antique shop before you leave.
It’s the ultimate day out for Paddington fans of all ages!
Official website: The Paddington Bear Experience
What It Is: From 23 May 2025, Jurassic World: The Experience the ultimate immersive adventure arrives at Battersea Power Station. Based on the iconic films, visitors will be able to visit 10 thrilling zones filled with raptors, T. rex, and even baby dinos.
Why Kids Will Love It: because they all love dinosaurs. And this blends movie magic with interactivity and the chance to walk with prehistoric legends.
KidRated Tip: Book early and don’t forget your camera!
What It Is: An exhilarating boat tour on the Thames by the Horrible Histories team, blending immersive theatre with hilarious historical facts.
Why Kids Love It: Kids are thrilled by the funny and gruesome tales of treachery, tyranny, and triumph, making history come alive in the most entertaining way.
KidRated Tip: Don’t miss the sea shanties—you’ll love singing along as you learn about the river’s murky past!
Discover Children’s Story Centre in Stratford boasts a packed programme of events, storytelling sessions, crafts, immersive adventures and guest appearances. Plus special author events, interactive installations, and age-specific sessions that keep babies, toddlers, and school-aged kids thoroughly entertained.
Swingers West End goes family-friendly every Sunday before 6pm – with crazy golf, carnival vibes, and loads of laughs.
Tee off on two fun-packed 9-hole courses, packed with friendly competition for kids (7+) and grown-ups alike. There’s epic street food (with kids’ menus), sweet treats, and mocktails for mini golfers.
Planning a party? Swingers’ kids package includes golf, grub, drinks, medals and your own party area. Hole-in-one!
Perfect for rainy Sundays or when you fancy doing something fun and different together.
London’s most exciting family dance event takes over Coram’s Fields in Bloomsbury for a day of free outdoor performances, workshops and activities
With lively dance performances, craft activities and workshops, The Place’s Family Dance Day returns to Coram’s Fields on Saturday 19th July 2025! For one day only, children and their grown-ups can have a day filled with fun with a new lineup of FREE events. Rain or shine. Family Dance Day will be there all day long!
Ever wondered what it’s like to fly through the air with the greatest of ease? Well, head to Regent’s Park or Kensington Gardens and let Gorilla Circus Flying Trapeze School solve that mystery.
Now in its 17th year, this is one of those brilliantly unique and memorable experiences that could easily see you go back again and again. Under the guidance of their patient and friendly instructors kids, teens (and parents) will learn the art of trapeze in a fun and supportive environment.
Right in the heart of London, Twist Museum is packed with mind-bending illusions that mess with how we see, hear and think. TWIST stands for The Way I See Things, and this family-friendly spot explores exactly that.
With 60+ interactive exhibits blending science, art and philosophy, expect endless corridors, vanishing colours, and plenty of “wait… what?!” moments. It’s fun, smart, and gets everyone talking about how we all see the world differently.
Great for curious kids, playful parents, and anyone up for a brainy day out.
Official website: Twist Museum
Fancy some fun on the Thames? See London and Canary Wharf from the water as you and your family barbecue your food? Of course you do! And if you hire a Skuna Boat – you can!
Perfect for kids and teens.
Shakespeare’s Globe is always a win for families – a bit of culture and a lot of fun.
Strap in for full-throttle fun at VRXtra, Kingston’s epic 2000 sq ft virtual reality arena! With 60+ games, VR escape rooms, and experiences for ages 7+, it’s the ultimate rainy-day win.
Battle zombies, cook in space, or explore art in a headset – no experience needed. Great for birthdays, bonding, and impressing your hard-to-please tween. Not just for gamers – there’s something for everyone. Book ahead to dodge disappointment and dive into a world you won’t forget.
The Hampstead Beach at JW3
Pack up the kids (or grandkids) and join us for a summer full of laughs, snacks, and unforgettable moments at JW3. They’ve got a range of kids’ activities lined up to keep your little ones entertained, no matter their age. From crafty corners to sporty challenges, there’s fun for everyone.
They’ll be serving a special menu from their Cafe – and remember, rain or shine, the fun doesn’t stop because with their weatherproof Dorfman Piazza it means you can enjoy the beach vibes without a worry because just like Centre Court, they’ve ve got it covered!
This summer, the Underbelly Festival is back and taking over two exciting London locations – Earls Court and Cavendish Square from July to September, and it’s the perfect day out for families with young kids! Imagine a slice of the Edinburgh Fringe right in Central London, complete with world-class circus acts, hilarious cabaret, and side-splitting comedy designed to entertain little ones and parents alike.
The ever popular Vauxhall City Farm is making is crossing the Thames for a one-day-only Family Farm Day in Covent Garden. It’s the perfect chance for kids (and adults!) who’ve never experienced the joy of a farm to meet and feed the adorable animals up close. Plus a whole host of farm-tastic (sorry). activities.
Face painting, educational workshops, magical story time sessions and the chance to snuggle some furry friends in Cuddle Corner, Entry is free, but if you can, throw in a donation to support The Farm.
Where and when? Various London Locations, 14th July – 9th September 2023
This year’s eight-week programme is packed of concerts, workshops, talks and family events featuring 84 shows and over 3,000 musicians. The majority of the shows will take place at London’s Royal Albert Hall.
Highlights for kids include the CBeebies Prom on August 25th and a Relaxed Prom on 10th August featuring music from Star Wars and Holst.
Step onto a giant Monopoly board and become the playing piece! Monopoly Lifesized brings the classic game to life on a huge 15m x 15m board packed with challenges, twists and London-themed fun.
In teams, you’ll race around the board for 80 minutes, entering full-sized rooms behind each property to tackle puzzles, crack codes, or take on physical tasks, all inspired by London’s history and present day. Build houses, earn cash, dodge jail, and yes… you can still be the Scottie Dog.
Kids aged 9+ (with an adult) will love the mix of escape-room energy and classic gameplay. Choose from four themed editions: Luxury, City, Classic, or Own It All.
Big fun. Big board. Big chance to show the grown-ups who’s boss.
Official website: Monopoly Lifesized
This family friendly festival is part of the Ealing Programme what takes place in Walpole Park from 9th July – 3rd August.
Kids and teens will be particularly interested in the New Gen Festival taking place on 30th July for young people age 10 – 25 featuring music, dance, and creativity. There are plenty of opportunities for kids and teens to take part and includes a main stage with artists, DJs and Dance Acts. Plus an Amplify Stage for open mic and jams and a Mind Zone for a chill-out space.
Coming back to Tooting, Tuff Nutterz is fun for the whole family! Parents can relax whilst their kids have a blast and if you’re brave enough, you can even join in too.
Measuring 300 metres long, this supersize inflatable maze is packed with 30 fun and challenging obstacles to complete, including huge slides, climbing walls, hanging rails and balance balls.Plus a new 6m tall “Tuff Slide” as an add-on! for those looking for an extra adrenaline rush!
There are four sessions per day: (Each session is 1hr & 45mins) at 09:30 to 11:15/ 11:30 to 13:15/13:30 to 15:15/ 15:30 to 17:15 with last entry at 15:30
Important Ticket Info
Tickets can be purchased at the door, availability dependent but they strongly suggest you book online to avoid disappointment.
Ever dreamed of being in a band with your kids where no one argues about screen time or socks on the floor? Welcome to WeJam, Camden’s best-kept musical secret. No talent? No problem. Thanks to some very clever tech, you’ll sound great even if you’ve never touched an instrument in your life.
Each 90-minute session is run by a real-life ‘record producer’ who’ll guide your mini band through rehearsals and a full-blown performance. You even get a recording to keep – proof that you once nailed a Bruno Mars chorus in harmony.
Comedy Club 4 Kids is a proper comedy club… just earlier in the day, with much, much younger audience. Featuring top stand-up comedians, sketch acts and cabaret stars it’s all suitable for ages six and up.
Running nationwide since 2005, this laugh-out-loud show is fast, funny, and brilliantly bonkers—with jokes that grown-ups will enjoy too. There’s even a podcast (Radio Nonsense) and a book if your kids fancy giving stand-up a go themselves!
Expect giggles, gags and genuine belly laughs. Kids must be accompanied by adults—mainly so they can help explain any jokes that go over little heads.
Perfect for families who love a good laugh together!
Ther are a host of events taking place across Canary Wharf’s parks, plazas, and open spaces but the ones we think you and your kids will be interested in are:
Comedy designed for young audiences – 15th June (11am & 2pm). Catch them at the Park Theatre as well and listen to their brilliant podcast. See their KidRated page here.
Taking place throughout June, July and August, family films will be screened on Saturday mornings and all are free to attend and will include recent releases as well as cult classics. All you need to take your picnic blanket and refreshments of choice. See website for the list.
Aimed at children aged 5+ and their families anyone can take part in a variety of family friendly games on their big screens. All the events are free, simply turn up and friendly stewards will explain the rules. Player numbers are limited and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Family theatre and workshops throughout June, July and August designed to keep your little ones entertained.
This is a family style rave at Bexley Heath (August 10th) and Richmond (August 31st), where both kids and grown-ups can hit the dance floor and let off some steam together.
All ages are welcome and it features a huge open air stage with the best in the house music, garage and drum & bass. Other entertainment and attractions include: character meet and greets; a free funfair with kids rides; stalls, games, inflatables and play areas, Raver Tots dinosaurs, arts and crafts; face-painting, a huge street food selection and a fully licensed bar
Advance booking only. All events sell out well in advance and there are no tickets on the door.
Taking place in South London’s Blackheath, with three stages of live acts and DJs, a family area, and plenty of excellent street food and bars, this is a great day out for all the family with Boy George & Culture Club as the headline.
The Little Town family area is back, packed with free entertainment and attractions that will keep your young ones smiling all day. With fun fair rides, lively DJs, and performances in a family-friendly music area, there’s plenty to get everyone up and dancing together!
A three-day music extravaganza featuring soul, jazz and classical performances. Plus two nights with the RPO and then Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra.
Film-loving Older kids and teens will love the Night at the Movies (24th) featuring classic themes Star Wars, Pirates of the Caribbean, James Bond, Harry Potter, How to Train Your Dragon and Wicked.
With a rich history spanning over a century, and a firm favourite with our K-Raters, Zippos Circus has delighted audiences worldwide with its awe-inspiring performances. This year they are touring the UK, but will be visiting London at the end of the summer. From motorbikes to fast juggling, knife throwing and whip cracking, this daredevil show will keep your kids and teens on the edge of their seats!
Opulent costumes, steels drums, hundreds of sound systems, singing and dancing, Notting Hill Carnival is just fun, fun, fun and the kids will absolutely love it!
They’ll also love trying myriad of different street food and drink on offer, including jerk chicken and fresh coconuts. Sunday is Family Day, which means a more relaxed parade with a calmer atmosphere, but with just as many summer celebrations.
GDIF 2025 will bring a unique programme of activities for you and your little ones including outdoor theatre, performance, art, dance and circus in iconic public spaces across the Royal Borough of Greenwich, East London and the City of London.
GDIF was the first UK festival to be awarded the Platinum level for accessibility by Attitude Is Everything, recognising their commitment to making every element inclusive to all.
Continuing with the afternoon tea theme, for little people that may need an afternoon treat (erm, and the adults) the children’s afternoon tea in The Palm Court will give some much-needed indulgence.
Included in the spread are creations inspired by London’s most iconic landmarks including the London Eye, London Red Bus and Big Ben, as well as classic bite-size sandwiches, freshly baked scones and a choice of hot chocolate or tea.
Oh, and they do cocktails for the parents too. Sold.
Newly opened on 1st July 2023 – The Young V&A is a playground where children, families, and young people can discover art specifically curated for tiny tots up to teens.
As well as the galleries there will be hands-on workshops and an open design studio beckoning aspiring young artists to learn new skills.
Plus they have lovely grounds around the museum if those little legs aren’t too exhausted!
When it comes to foodie festivals for the whole family, Hampton Court Palace definitely knows how to deliver.
As well as sampling the most delicious culinary delights, young Londoners can embark on a journey of exploration through the palace, bask in the beauty of the grounds, and immerse themselves in live entertainment provided by the festival’s regular favourites.
Located on Tottenham Court Road in the heart of London, Monopoly Lifesized is an immersive, physical version of the world’s favourite family board game played on lifesized Monopoly board!
Bring your kids and teens along this summer and experience the thrill of competing against a clock to build some of London’s iconic buildings, solving a baffling murder mystery and escape jail, all whilst earning as much money as you can.
Discover a brilliantly bonkers, interactive and immersive walkthrough experience situated in the County Hall building down at Southbank, which the whole family enjoy this summer.
See, hear, touch and smell the adventure by exploring 10 fairy tale themed live shows, from a magical 4D flying bus experience, interacting with characters including Princess Fiona and Donkey to collecting the special ingredients you’ll need in order to find Shrek and make it home safely.
As you’re down on Southbank you can make a day of it by visiting the London Eye, Aquarium or Dungeons which are all situated next door!
For more free things to do visit our Best free things to do for kids and teens in London guide…
Created by radio legend Chris Evans, CarFest is the UK’s biggest family fundraising festival — and an absolute belter of a weekend. Set just outside Basingstoke on a beautiful 500-acre site, this epic event raises millions for UK children’s charities and has something for every family member.
It’s seven festivals in one: from KidsFest with bubble zones, sandpits, crafts and CBeebies stars, to FoodFest with free cake-decorating classes and tasters galore, plus StarFest, which has welcomed Rob Brydon and Jimmy Carr. For some chill time, SpaFest is packed with yoga sessions and mindful moments — ideal for grown-ups in need of a breather.
Bring your own picnic, chairs, even a trolley – you’ll thank us later. Parents love the fact you can save a fortune on food and set up camp near the main stage, returning between snack runs and toilet trips. There’s even a breastfeeding tent, baby-changing facilities and highchairs dotted around. They’ve genuinely thought of everything.
Older kids go mad for the vintage fairground and the race track, where celebs and supercars do laps and donuts. There’s even a Young Drivers school where kids can try out driving in a safe space.
And the music? Always top-drawer – with past acts including Paloma Faith, Rag’n’Bone Man, Steps (who stole the show), and the annual CarFest supergroup.
Basically, it’s huge fun and a brilliant excuse for a weekend adventure outside London.
️ Tickets do sell out – so don’t hang about.
Our handy guide to Camden
London’s Best Theatre Shows
Kids who need a little extra help
Clink Prison Museum
Matilda the Musical
