50 Things to do in London for Teens

Updated for 2026. Looking for things to do in London with teenagers?
We’ve pulled together 50 ideas that actually work – from immersive experiences and shopping spots to food, theatre and high-energy days out.

Whether your teen wants something active, social, creative or just a bit different, this list focuses on places they’ll genuinely say yes to, not just traditional “family days out”.

Quick picks:

Best for low-effort days: cinema, food spots, shopping
Best for active teens: Go Ape, Thorpe Park
Best for social days out: Camden Market, bowling, immersive experiences
Best for a treat: The Shard, West End shows

Because teenagers are famously hard to please and deeply allergic to anything that feels “for children”, the trick is to take them to places where other teens are having fun… you might even earn a sliver of kudos (no guarantees). From immersive experiences and adrenaline-fuelled activities to culture, food and offbeat days out, this list is designed to help parents plan London outings that won’t be instantly dismissed.

Scroll on, pick wisely and…good luck.

High-Energy Days Out for Teens | Immersive & Interactive Experiences | Shopping & Social Hangouts | Food & Eating Out with Teens | Culture (That Teens Might Actually Like) | At-Home Wins (Film & TV)

High-Energy Days Out for Teens

The Arcelormittal Slide in the Queen Elizabeth II Olympic Park

Calling all thrill-seekers! The Arcelormittal Orbit Slide in Olympic Park is a must-visit. It’s Europe’s tallest sculpture with the world’s longest tunnel slide. Seriously, it’s bonkers fun! Perfect for teens craving an adrenaline rush. And when you need a break, Westfield shopping centre is next door for some retail therapy or a bite to eat.

Adrenaline Rush Laser Combat

Who knew shooting lasers at friends could be so exhilarating? Adrenalin Rush in Chiswick offers outdoor laser tag that’s perfect for getting your teens off the couch and into action.

Organise a team of adults to challenge the teens – it’s a blast for all ages. Just remember, all’s fair in love and laser tag!

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Swingers Crazy Golf & Pitch and Putt

Discover the best cool, fun, and exciting things to do in London for older kids and teenagers
Rafferty awards a 10/10 for Moby Dick Crazy Golf & Golf Kingdom Chadwell Heath

Crazy golf in London? Yes, please! With about 17 courses, your teens will have a blast. Check out Putt in the Park locations in Acton, Battersea, Gunnersbury and Putney for a guaranteed good time.

If the weather’s really not playing ball (excuse the pun) try Swingers Crazy Golf in Covent Garden – fully indoors with a great restaurant and Carnival funfair games. Perfect for birthday parties too.

For something a bit more challenging, try pitch and putt. Queens Park is a family fave with a great course, a petting zoo, a cafe, and even a nature trail.

Feeling fancy? Head to a driving range. They’re scattered all over London and perfect for teens looking to step up their game. Ready, set, swing!

Ten Pin Bowling

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Bowling at All Star Lanes, an official K-Rated attraction © All Star Lanes

Bowling’s back and cooler than ever! All Star Lanes and QUEENS Skate Dine Bowl are top picks. With stylish decor, tasty food (hello, cajun halloumi fries!), and a side of arcade games or ice skating, it’s a hit.

Perfect for rainy days or just some good old family fun.

Skate Parks & BMX

Skateboarding has never really lost popularity amongst certain quarters. If your teen’s skateboard mad then Southbank’s iconic skate park is a must-visit. Bay Sixty6 in West London is another great spot, with sessions for all skill levels. Perfect for those just starting out.

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Hammersmith BMX Club, Brockwell Park and Lee Valley VeloPark offer top-notch pump tracks for adventurous BMX lovers. 

Go Ape

Time to unleash the wild side! Go Ape offers thrilling tree-top rope courses at venues like Battersea Park, Ally Pally and Cockfosters. Tethered and safe, teens navigate through obstacles and zip lines. 

Junior courses are available, but this adventure is perfect for active teens looking for a challenge.  

Axe-throwing in Hammersmith

Looking for a unique family outing this summer? Why travel far and wide when you can experience the unique thrill of axe throwing at Game of Throwing in Hammersmith.

Rebellious teens will be shoulder to shoulder with friends slinging axes and slamming bullseye. Choose from a 90 minute or 180 minute package which includes a pizza, unlimited soft drinks, a full hour of axe throwing under the tutorage of an Axe Master, and a pic of the whole team.

You’ll compete to hit the bullseye, try trick shots, and create unforgettable memories together. Perfect any day but especially on a rainy day!

Go Up or Abseil Down

London’s skyline is calling! Teens love heights, so book in advance for The Shard, Sky Garden, or Up At The O2. For the ultimate adventure, take an Uber Boat to The O2, lunch there, and then scale the roof!

For climbing enthusiasts, enrol them in a climbing course. London Climbing Centres have several locations around London. Westway Climbing in Ladbroke Grove is also a top pick and Google will help you find more.

VRXtra

Step into VRXtra Kingston or VRXtra Watford – around 2000 sq ft virtual reality arena packed with thrilling, brain-boosting, multiplayer adventures. With over 60 games to choose from plus VR Escape Rooms there’s something for everyone, from battling zombies, to cooking up chaos in a virtual kitchen.

VR Xtra Kingston

This is proper immersive fun – think teamwork, giggles, and plenty of “Wow, that was amazing!” moments. With games and experiences designed for everyone aged 7 and up, it’s ideal for birthdays, rainy days, and bonding time with your hard-to-please teen.

Thorpe Park

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Liam, 12, and Elliot, 14, star of BBC 3 show Uncle, both give Thorpe Park a K-Rating of 10

Thrill-seeking teens? Thorpe Park is their paradise! Just 20 miles out of London, it boasts over 30 rides, including the UK’s fastest rollercoaster. Plus, there are live music events and an epic Halloween experience.

If you’re not into rollercoasters, drop them off and pick them up later. It’s a win-win – they get their thrills, and you get some peace.

Ready, set, scream!

Go-Karting

Got a speed demon? TeamSport’s got you covered with venues in Acton, Mitcham, Watford, Edmonton, and Docklands. Teens 13+ can race in Open Timed Sessions, 50 Lap Races, or Unlimited Karting.

Remember, this is how Lewis Hamilton started. Encourage their interest – they might be paying for your days out in a few years!

Ready to race? Let’s go! 

Play Ping-Pong

Did you know London’s got ping-pong tables scattered all over the city? Perfect for a spontaneous game. But for the real deal, Bounce Ping Pong is where it’s at! With locations in Battersea Power Station and Farringdon this place is like ping-pong on steroids – think lights, projections, and a killer soundtrack.

Kids and teens are welcome before 6pm if they’re with an adult, so it’s a fantastic family outing. While the kids get their game on, you can enjoy a drink and some nibbles. Pro tip: book in advance for group discounts and maybe even get the adults in on the fun too. Who says grown-ups can’t play?

Get Dancing

Head to the iconic Pineapple Dance Studios in Covent Garden. Whether your teen is into ballet, hip-hop, or jazz, there’s a class for every budding dancer. Plus, you might spot a celeb or two – Louis Spence, anyone? So lace up those dancing shoes and let’s get groovy!

Visit Alexandra Palace (Ally Pally)

Looking for a spot that screams fun? Alexandra Palace is it! There’s so much to do at this northern London icon. Go Ape, skatepark, boating lake, ice rink. And now, climb over the roof in the Summit experience. Plus, it hosts gigs, street food fests, yoga, exhibitions and outdoor movies. And come November, their fireworks display is a must-see.

Stroll through the gardens, take a paddle on the boating lake, or just soak in those panoramic city views.

Immersive & Interactive Experiences

Sports Venue Tours

Sporty teens? London’s got you covered! From football to rugby to cricket, there’s a tour for every fan. Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham, West Ham, and Crystal Palace offer tours – some even with club legends!

Not loyal to a London team? Wembley Stadium lets you play pretend with press conferences and Royal Box steps. Rugby fans can hit Twickenham, cricket lovers Lord’s, and tennis enthusiasts Wimbledon

Score big points by taking them on a tour. It’s like being in the game, minus the sweat! Looking for tips on taking kids to a football game? Read our super helpful blog posts The KidRated Guide to Taking Your Kids to the Football part 1 & part 2.

Lock Your Teenagers Up in an Escape Room

For teens who love puzzles more than push-ups, Escape Entertainment London is the place to be. They’ll get locked in a room and must work as a team to escape within an hour. It’s brainy, brawny fun!

These rooms are designed by experts, so expect top-notch puzzles and immersive experiences. Over 16s can go solo, but younger kids will need an adult sidekick.

There are loads of escape rooms for teenagers in London, including a Sherlock-themed one. Our top pick? This one, hands down!

WeJam

Have your teens ever dreamed of being in a band ? Well then take them to WeJam, Camden’s best-kept musical secret. No talent? No problem. Thanks to some very clever tech, they’ll sound great even if they’ve never touched an instrument in their lives.

Boys playing keytars and girl singing in background

Each 90-minute session is run by a real-life ‘record producer’ who’ll guide them through rehearsals and a full-blown performance. They even get a recording to keep.

London Bridge Experience

For horror-loving teens, the London Bridge Experience is a spine-chilling hit. With top-notch actors and thrilling scenes, it’s part history lesson, part immersive haunted house. The Tombs are terrifying, but teens can handle it (even if they scream the whole way through!). Pair it with a visit to the Southbank’s eateries for a full day out.

London Dungeons

 Get ready for scares and giggles at the London Dungeons. It’s packed with gruesome tales from London’s past, brought to life by fantastic actors. Teens will love the interactive elements and spooky rides. Plus, it’s next to the London Eye and Sea Life Aquarium, making it easy to plan a whole day of fun on the Southbank.

Twist Museum

Prepare for a mind-bending adventure at The Twist Museum. It’s all about illusions that mess with your mind! Explore immersive rooms and interactive exhibits that challenge your perception of reality. Teens and adults will be fascinated by how their brains interpret the world. A seriously fun thing to do in London with your teenagers. It will have everyone questioning what they see. It’s on Oxford Street, so why not head to the shops afterwards?

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

If your teens are Potterheads, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Watford is an absolute must. It’s pricey, so maybe save it for a special occasion – like passing exams or surviving a week without slamming doors!

Book in advance and explore the wizarding world with exclusive behind-the-scenes peeks, green screen broomstick rides, and more.

Anyway it’s an amazing experience and to help you make the most of it we’ve created a special blog post that tells you the tips and tricks.

Discover the best cool, fun, and exciting things to do in London for older kids and teenagers
Dropping in on The Dursleys

Finally check out our guide to London’s Best Immersive Attractions for Kids and Teens for more inspiration…

Shopping and Social Hang-outs

Visit a Market

London’s markets are a teenage shopper’s paradise! Borough Market near London Bridge is foodie heaven with movie location spotting for Potterheads and Bridget Jones fans. Camden Market in North London is a teenage dream with its vintage clothes, street food, and funky vibes. Don’t miss Portobello Road for antiques, quirky finds, and those famous Notting Hill coloured buildings for your Insta story. Perfect spots to let teens roam while you enjoy a leisurely coffee.

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Other shopping areas teenagers might like in London include Greenwich, Old Spitalfields and Brick Lane near Shoreditch, Hackney’s Broadway Market and Brixton Village and Market Row.

Covent Garden

Covent Garden isn’t just one spot – it’s a vibrant mix of places to shop, eat, and explore. Start at Seven Dials, where trendy boutiques, vintage stores, and cool cafes await. Don’t miss Neal’s Yard for its colourful courtyard and famous cheese shop. Long Acre has a selection of high street stores, whilst Neal Street is great if you’re looking for a vintage find. Glossier has it’s only UK store – be prepared to queue to get in at busy times. And if you prefer something a little more unique head to the Apple Market and browse the stalls.

Back at the main piazza, your teens will love the mix of shops, street performers, and tasty eateries. And remember, those street performers will appreciate a tip!

Discover the best cool, fun, and exciting things to do in London for older kids and teenagers
Covent Garden’s Piazza

Covent Garden & Insta

During your visit don’t forget to take a few photos. There are plenty of instagrammable spots that teens will love. The famous Covent Garden Infinity Chamber which runs between Long Acre and Floral Street is a firm favourite. Arrive early, or late, to get the best chance of a clear shot.

Finally, once you’re ready for a break, pop into the Royal Opera House café for a scenic snack break and a perfect meeting spot for the family if you’ve let your teens explore on their own.

Record Shopping in Soho

Despite the popularity of streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music and Deezer for genuine music lovers, the vinyl format is well and truly back, and Soho is the place to find it.

Berwick Street is a treasure trove of record shops. Snap a pic recreating the iconic Oasis album cover and head into Sister Ray for rare finds.

Discover the best cool, fun, and exciting things to do in London for older kids and teenagers,

Other hot spots include If Music with it’s friendly, chatty staff, Sounds of the Universe and Reckless Recordsfor second-hand gems.

Battersea Power Station

The iconic Battersea Power Station has been transformed into a vibrant hub of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Explore the new riverside walk, check out the chic eateries, and maybe even catch a film at the cinema. It’s a fantastic spot for a family outing with something for everyone.

Comic Book Stores

Superhero fanatics will love London’s comic book stores. Forbidden Planet Megastore on Shaftesbury Avenue is a pop culture paradise, packed with merch and a vast comic collection downstairs.

Other must-visits include Gosh! Comics in Soho and Music + Fashion Exchange in Notting Hill. Perfect for teens obsessed with Marvel, DC, and more.

Columbia Road Flower Market

For a blooming brilliant Sunday, head to Columbia Road Flower Market. This iconic market is a riot of colours and scents, perfect for Instagram-happy teenagers in London. Arrive around 10am to dodge the biggest crowds and get those perfect snaps.

Cafés line the street, making it easy to grab a late breakfast or brunch. Afterward, explore nearby Shoreditch, Brick Lane, and Spitalfields Market.

Pro Tip: Haggle for last-minute bargains around 3pm.

Food & Eating Out with Teens

The Royal Opera House Secret Terrace Bar

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Royal Opera House’s Terrace Bar

If you find yourself in Covent Garden before the shops open (or even if they are), why not take a stroll through the Royal Opera House? It’s free, and the building itself is a marvel. You can explore models showcasing the Opera House’s evolution over the centuries and admire costumes from legendary performances like Swan Lake and gasp at how petite the ballerinas were.

The real hidden gem, though, is the top floor, where you’ll find a chic restaurant, a cozy cafe, and a terrace that offers breathtaking views of the Covent Garden Piazza – a spot even many Londoners haven’t discovered yet!

The Terrace Bar is perfect for families visiting London, especially those with kids or teenagers. Its central location makes it super easy to get to, and the spacious terrace offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle below. The views are stunning, providing a fantastic backdrop for family selfies or just a relaxing moment to take in the city’s skyline. It’s a great place to grab a light bite or a drink, and the kids can enjoy the fresh air and scenery.

For a more in-depth experience, consider taking one of the Opera House’s guided tours. They run throughout the day, offering a fascinating peek behind the scenes. While you might snag a last-minute spot, it’s better to book online, especially during the busy summer months. So, whether you’re a culture buff or just looking for a unique spot to relax, the Royal Opera House has something for everyone!

One New Change Roof Terrace

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Got teens? Head to One New Change, a snazzy shopping haven next to St. Paul’s Cathedral. With shops like Zara, Oliver Bonas, and H&M, and eateries like Nando’s and Bread Street Kitchen, your teens will be spoilt for choice.

Don’t miss the pop-up shops and seasonal events, especially the festive Christmas market. But the real gem? The free, breathtaking views from the roof terrace. Ride the glass elevators to the top and let the skyline sweep you off your feet.

Food Courts Galore

London’s food courts are foodie heaven! Start with the famous Borough Market for gourmet delights. Then, check out Boxpark Shoreditch for trendy street food. Don’t forget Seven Dials Market in Covent Garden – it’s got everything from dumplings to doughnuts. Kingly Court in Carnaby street is a perfect for picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike!

Culture (That Teens Might Actually Like)

The Clink Prison Museum

Step back in time at The Clink Prison Museum, the oldest prison in England. Located in Southwark, it’s a compact yet fascinating trip into medieval crime and punishment. With creepy mannequins and interactive torture instruments, it’s spooky enough for teens to love. Perfect for a quick visit before grabbing some grub at Borough Market.

For the full scare experience try The London Dungeons or the London Bridge Experience.

 National Gallery

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Looking for something for your arty teenagers to do in London? The National Gallery in Trafalgar Square is a cultural goldmine. Wander through spacious rooms filled with masterpieces and let them get lost in their own world. It’s free, so you can dip in and out as you like. And hey, Covent Garden is just around the corner if they fancy a break.

National Portrait Gallery

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National Portrait Gallery London

The National Portrait Gallery is a gem for both history buffs and pop culture fans. From historical figures to modern celebrities, the portraits here tell amazing stories. It’s less crowded than its neighbour, the National Gallery, making it a perfect place for teens to explore at their own pace. Check out their evening events for some extra fun!

The Barbican

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Barbican Centre

Perfect for artsy types. The Barbican is Europe’s biggest multi-arts centre, so whether your teens are into fashion, music, theatre, film, or dance, there’s always something quirky to discover. It’s a treasure trove of culture.

Not everything will be up their alley, so check the lineup before you go. And don’t miss out on the fab restaurants and cafes. Oh, and there’s a giant conservatory open on Sundays that’s just perfect for snapping some Insta-worthy pics!

Pro tip: Get there early, the signage can be a bit tricky. And teens aged 14-25 can score discounted tickets through the Young Barbican scheme.

The Exhibition Road Museums: Natural History, Science & Victoria & Albert

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Full marks for The Science Museum

Three words: Free. Fun. Fabulous! The Science Museum, Natural History Museum, and Victoria & Albert Museum are all nestled together on Exhibition Road. These spots are perfect for letting teens roam free (ish) while you chill in a cafe.

The Science Museum boasts an epic IMAX and a new space exhibition and the V&A’s outdoor John Madejski Garden is simply stunning.

Handy hint: Pack a lunch to save some cash; there are plenty of picnic spots around these museums.

The Monument to The Great Fire of London

Shhh, here’s a secret: The Monument offers some of the best panoramic views of London, and it’s under a tenner! Your teens will love the bragging rights of climbing 311 steps for that perfect shot.

It’s a steep and narrow spiral staircase, but hey, everyone gets a certificate after they’ve reached the top! And everyone remembers learning about Pudding Lane and the Great Fire of London.

The Sherlock Holmes Museum

Teens and Sherlock Holmes? It’s a thing! Ever since Cumberbatch and Downey Jr. donned the deerstalker, teens can’t get enough. Start your Holmes adventure at Baker Street tube station, decorated with scenes from Conan Doyle’s tales.

Head to 221b Baker Street (between 237 and 241, go figure!) for The Sherlock Holmes Museum. Snap a pic with the Victorian cop outside, then dive into the quirky, cramped museum filled with memorabilia and period-perfect rooms.

It’s small but mighty – perfect for Holmes fans. And if you’re not into it? Plenty of cafes nearby, or pop next door to The Beatles Store. Win-win!

Discover the best cool, fun, and exciting things to do in London for older kids and teenagers
The small but perfectly formed Sherlock Holmes Museum

London Zoo

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Feeding time at the zoo

Not just for little kids. Teens love seeing all the animals and watching their funny antics. A picnic in Regent’s Park or a trip to a local cafe in Primrose Hill is always a good follow-up.

 Royal Observatory Greenwich

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Take a cosmic trip to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich. Straddle the Meridian Line, explore the stars, and geek out over the Great Equatorial Telescope. Don’t miss the nearby Planetarium – it’s out of this world! For stunning views of London, stroll through Greenwich Park. Bonus: hop on an Uber Boat by Thames Clipper for a scenic river ride.

There’s so much more to do in Greenwich so we’ve put together our Top 10 things to do list so you can fill your day.

Discover the best cool, fun, and exciting things to do in London for older kids and teenagers

Abbey Road & The Beatles Shop 

Got a Beatles fan at home? Abbey Road is a must! Pose on the famous zebra crossing and text your friends to watch live on the webcam. It’s free, fun, and a fab way to spend an afternoon.

Don’t forget to bring a pen so your teens can add their mark to the Abbey Road studio wall. Then, stroll down to Baker Street for The Beatles Store, crammed with gifts, records, and souvenirs.

Bowie

Whilst we’re on a musical theme…

Calling all Bowie fans! London is a treasure trove for all things Ziggy Stardust.

Start at the iconic mural in Brixton – it’s a must-snap spot for any true fan. Then, head over to Trident Studios where Bowie recorded some of his legendary tracks. Don’t miss Heddon Street, the exact spot where he posed for the famous ‘Ziggy Stardust’ album cover. It’s like a rock ‘n’ roll pilgrimage – make sure to bring your camera and best Bowie impressions! And don’t forget the new, and super busy, Bowie collection at the V&A Storehouse in Stratford, or the Lightroom show currently on. It’s time to kick off your red shoes and… 

Visit a FunFair, the Circus or Cirque Berserk!

What teenager doesn’t love a good funfair?

Check out George Irvin’s Funfair dates in London for classic rides and evening lights. (This is one we’ll leave to the kids!)

London activities suitable for older children

Zippo’s Circus is a family favourite with heart-stopping acts and great value.

And for something truly spectacular, Cirque Berserk’s acrobats and stunts will leave you breathless. They’ve been at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park for the last 11 years. Check their site for dates and locations. Fun guaranteed!

London entertainment options for teenagers
Cirque Berserk

Street Art Hunting

London’s streets are a canvas, and East London is the gallery! From Shoreditch to Brick Lane, you’ll find incredible murals and graffiti that are Insta-gold. Make a game of it: who can find the most Banksy pieces? Snap away and use #KRatedTeens to show off your finds.

For the full experience, book a guided tour – it’s like an art class but way cooler.

Acting Classes

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Got a drama queen (or king) in the house? London’s bursting with acting classes to help your teen unleash their inner star. Whether they dream of Hollywood or just want to boost their confidence, these classes are a fun way to meet new friends and learn new skills. Who knows, you might be the next parent of an A-lister!

Street Theatre

Covent Garden is the epicentre of street theatre in London. Grab a spot in the piazza and watch some of the city’s best performers. It’s a mix of magic, comedy, and jaw-dropping stunts. Just remember to tip the performers – it’s worth every penny. And hey, it’s a great way to keep the teens entertained without breaking the bank.

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The Vaults

For something a bit different, head to The Vaults in Waterloo. This underground art space hosts immersive theatre, exhibitions, and quirky events. It’s edgy, cool, and sure to impress the teens. Keep an eye on their website for the latest shows and happenings. 

Outdoor Areas for Hanging Out

Parks – Hyde Park

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Hyde Park boats on The Serpentine

Hyde Park is your green escape in the heart of London. Teens can enjoy boating on the Serpentine, rollerblading, or just chilling for those Instagram shots. Don’t miss Winter Wonderland if you’re visiting in the festive season – it’s a noisy, fun fairground dream for kids and teens alike. For the musically inclined, British Summertime Festival features big names like Taylor Swift and The Stones. 

 

Richmond Park

For a breath of fresh air, head to Richmond Park. It’s a sprawling green space where you can spot deer, enjoy a picnic, or just have a peaceful walk. Climb up King Henry’s Mound for a spectacular view of St Paul’s Cathedral. Or rent bikes and cycle around some of the trails. It’s a perfect escape from the city hustle.

Little Venice

Fancy a taste of Venice in London? Little Venice near Paddington is a picturesque canal area with cute cafes and boat rides. Take a leisurely stroll along the water or hop on a canal boat for a unique perspective of the city. You can walk along the canal all the way to Camden Market. It’s a serene spot that feels miles away from the busy streets of London. Teens will love the contrast.

Southbank Centre

The Southbank Centre is a cultural hotspot and a great spot for teens to find something to do in London. There’s always something going on, from art exhibitions to live music. Take a stroll along the river, grab a bite at one of the food markets, and maybe even catch a show. It’s a vibrant area with loads to do.

Film, TV & Theatre

 Prince Charles Cinema

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Movie buffs, this one’s for you! The Prince Charles Cinema near Leicester Square screens cult classics, arthouse gems, and even sing-a-long versions of hits like The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Get your teen an annual membership for perks and discounts. It’s a cultural must-do and perfect for birthdays or rainy afternoons.

Love the movies? We have a list of our top 10 independent cinemas right here.

Catch A West End Show

Think West End shows are out of your budget? Think again! With KidRated’s exclusive deals, discounted tickets at the TKTs booth, or theatre lotteries, you can snag great seats for less.

August’s Kids Week lets kids under 16 go free with a paying adult. Score!

Teenage girls stood outside the Globe Theatre
3 kids rating a theatre performance

The Globe Theatre

Alright, not every teen loves Shakespeare, but the Globe Theatre in Southwark might just change that. The guided tours are fun and educational, making the bard’s world come alive. For the brave, snag £5 standing tickets in ‘The Yard’ to watch a play like a true 17th-century groundling.

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Nearby attractions like Borough Market and Tate Modern make it a day in London for even the hardest to please teens.

https://youtu.be/m3VGa6Fp3zI

Movie Locations

Got a teen who’s a movie buff? London’s your playground! Spend a day hunting down iconic film spots from Marvel, Harry Potter, or even Paddington. Perfect for a cheap day out and guaranteed to get those Instagram likes.

Start with Mr. Gruber’s shop from Paddington or the Royal Naval College seen in Thor, Les Misérables, and Pirates of the Caribbean. Don’t forget “that door” on Portobello Road – Harry Potter fans, you know the one!

Discover the best cool, fun, and exciting things to do in London for older kids and teenagers
Mr Gruber’s Shop from the Paddington films

Pro tip: Plan to hit at least ten locations. You’ll be amazed at how the day flies by while you’re re-enacting famous scenes. Need a head start? Here’s a guide to Harry Potter film spots. Happy hunting!

 

Leadenhall Market

Step back in time at Leadenhall Market. This historic market in the heart of the City of London is full of charm and character. It’s also a Harry Potter filming location, so a must-visit for fans. Grab a bite, browse the boutiques, and soak up the atmosphere.

Stay In and Watch A Film or TV

Sometimes, you just need a cozy day in. Thanks to our teen reviewers Jack and Ed, we’ve got the ultimate lists of films and TV series that are perfect for older kids and teens. Whether they’re into action, comedy, or drama, there’s something for everyone. So, grab the popcorn, get comfy, and let the binge-watching begin!

Things to do, places to go for kids and teenagers - cool, academic, fun and entertaining in London and beyond with KidRated

  

Experience Other Cultures

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Chinese New Year in Soho

London’s a melting pot of cultures, and there’s always a festival happening. Kick off the year with Chinese New Year in Soho, then follow the fun to Trafalgar Square for St. Patrick’s Day, St. George’s Day, and more.

Discover the best cool, fun, and exciting things to do in London for older kids and teenagers
A young reveller having fun at Notting Hill Carnival

August Bank Holiday? Notting Hill Carnival is a must. It’s Europe’s biggest street party with sound systems, floats, and delicious street food. Teens will love the vibrant atmosphere and free fun.

These events are fantastic for teens to immerse themselves in different cultures. Ready to celebrate?

Spontaneity Rules

Feeling adventurous? Pick a random letter, plug it into Citymapper, and see where it takes you! Maybe F for Finsbury Park or N for Neal’s Yard. It’s a fun way to discover hidden gems and turn a regular day into a spontaneous adventure. Who knows what you’ll find? The city’s your playground!

Insta it out

Challenge the teenagers to an Instagram-off! London’s full of perfect photo ops like God’s Own Junkyard, Molly’s Bakes, and the ever-quirky Brick Lane. Snap away and tag #KRatedTeens – we want to see those pics! It’s a fun way to explore the city and capture memories. Who’s up for the challenge?

Hidden Gems of Hampstead

Escape the hustle and bustle and explore Hampstead. Wander through the quaint streets and check out the charming cafes. Don’t miss the Pergola and Hill Garden – it’s like stepping into a secret garden. And of course, a walk on Hampstead Heath is a must for stunning city views or even a dip in the Bathing Ponds for brave teenagers – it’s not always warm in London!

Quick Inspiration

Rainy Day Activities

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