This May half-term holiday will be challenging for parents and carers but equally an opportunity for families to get together and create lasting fond memories. London has plenty of exciting things to do for everyone and for every pocket. Whether you’re into culture or outdoor activities, London offers lots of family-friendly activities. Find out London Mums’ top 10 things to do in London over half-term holidays.
Frameless – Art with no boundaries
Wicked the musical
Wicked is the MUST-SEE musical this half term. The show promotes a strong anti-bullying message and also covers strong themes around friendship, love and standing up for what you believe in. Wicked is the West End and Broadway musical phenomenon that tells the incredible untold story of the Witches of Oz. It is already the 12th longest running production in West End history and has won over 100 awards including three Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards, eleven WhatsOnStage Awards, and a Grammy. Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman’s musical is based on the novel by Gregory Maguire and imagines a beguiling backstory and future possibilities to the lives of L. Frank Baum’s beloved characters from The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, revealing the decisions and events that shape the destinies of two unlikely university friends on their journey to becoming Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the West. Venue: The Apollo Victoria Theatre, Wilton Road, London, SW1V 1LG. Official UK website: www.WickedTheMusical.co.uk
London Dungeon
Teenagers will especially like the new London Dungeon immersive experience. On top of its usual activities exploring London’s darkest history, it is now launching a Guy Fawkes themed escape room, in which guests are locked in the Tower of London, where they are sentenced to be tortured and hanged. They’ve been found guilty of conspiring against the King with none other than the treasonous Guy Fawkes, having got embroiled in his failed gunpowder plot. Teams of 2 to 6 people at £120 per game have 60 minutes to ‘escape’ the cell from the moment they are locked in and are put to the test with a series of clues left behind by Guy Fawkes to guide them through logical-based puzzles and other physical elements. The London Dungeon’s Prison Guard will be routinely conducting checks of the cells, and you don’t want to get caught trying to escape! It is recommended players are aged 12+ to make the most out of the escape room experience. To book the escape room, visit www.thedungeons.com/london/escape. To visit the London Dungeon, book online at www.thedungeons.com/london.
The Rossettis at Tate Britain
Charles Dickens Museum Exhibition ‘A Great and Dirty City – Dickens and the London Fog‘
Visit Kew Gardens’ exhibition: All the Flowers Are for Me
BBC Earth Experience
Jurassic Afternoon Tea at Apero restaurant – South Kensington
Take a ride on the London Eye
The London Eye is a giant ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the city. It’s a great way to see London from a unique perspective and enjoy a fun ride with the family. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid the long lines.
Visit the Tower of London
The Tower of London is a historic fortress that has played an important role in British history for over 900 years. It’s a great place to learn about the city’s past and explore the various buildings and exhibits. Kids will love seeing the Crown Jewels and hearing stories about the tower’s famous prisoners.
Take selfies with King Charles III at the wax museum Madame Tussauds
Go on a Harry Potter tour
Harry Potter fans will love exploring the various locations in London that were featured in the films. From Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station to the Leaky Cauldron in Borough Market, there are plenty of fun spots to visit. You can even take a guided tour that will show you all the best locations.
Visit London Zoo
The London Zoo is home to over 750 different species of animals, making it one of the largest collections in the world. From lions and tigers to penguins and giraffes, there is something to fascinate every member of the family. Be sure to check out the various exhibits and daily animal shows.
Go on a Thames River cruise
A Thames River cruise is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. You’ll get to enjoy stunning views of some of London’s most famous landmarks, such as the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, and the Shard. Some tours even include a meal or afternoon tea.
Take kids to Mini multi sports camps
Musical holiday camps in London at The Strings Club
Not all these activities are affordable, especially if you are on a tight budget. However, London has lots of FREE family fun things to do. Check them out here.
FREE LONDON: Free things to do in London for all the family
Visit the British Museum (FREE)
The British Museum is one of the most popular attractions in London, and for good reason. The museum is home to an impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles. With free admission, the museum is a great place to spend a few hours with the family.
Explore the Natural History Museum (FREE)
The Natural History Museum is another must-visit attraction for families in London. From the giant dinosaur skeletons to the butterfly house, there is something to fascinate every member of the family. The museum also has a variety of interactive exhibits, making it a great educational experience for kids.
Involve the kids in gardening activities (FREE)
Explore the markets
London has a variety of markets that are great for exploring with the family. Some popular markets to visit include Camden Market, Borough Market, and Portobello Road Market. You’ll find a variety of food, clothing, and unique souvenirs to take home.
Go on a bike tour
A bike tour is a great way to see the city and get some exercise at the same time. You’ll be able to explore some of London’s most famous landmarks, from Buckingham Palace to the London Eye, while getting some fresh air and exercise. There are a variety of tours to choose from, so be sure to find one that fits your family’s needs.
