Staying in London this summer with the family? Or have you booked a last-minute trip and found yourself wondering how to keep the children entertained? Fear not – our bumper Citizen Femme guide to a summer in the city with the family has you covered.
We’ve thought of it all: immersive exhibitions, polo matches in Richmond, ice cream worth queuing for, and plenty more. Make the most of the long days, soak up the sun, and turn this summer into one your family will remember.
1. The Enormous Crocodile
The Lyric Hammersmith is bringing Roald Dahl’s picture book The Enormous Crocodile to the main stage. Co-produced by the Roald Dahl Company and Leeds Playhouse, this adaptation runs for a short time only this summer. Book ahead to secure your spot.
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Date: 29 July – 22 August
Address: Lyric Square, King St, London W6 0QL
Book tickets here
2. Shakespeare Globe Theatre Family Workshop
Shakespeare’s acclaimed Globe Theatre is opening its doors to families for a whimsical adventure. Attend the theatre’s Family Workshops with your children aged 5-8 and participate in interactive games with the Globe’s highly esteemed professionals. Alongside the workshop, watch as Cass seeks refuge in his imagination, where he fights with kings and flies with witches, in their rendition of A World Elsewhere at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse.
Date: 25 July – 30 August
Address: 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London SE1 9DT
Book tickets here
3. 100 Acre Wood, The Big One Hundred
Although Winnie the Pooh remains young in everyone’s eyes and hearts, he is indeed celebrating his 100th birthday this year! Come together with friends and family to celebrate this iconic milestone and meet the new character, Poppet, who too will live in Ashdown Forest for 100 years.
Date: Multiple dates from now through August
Book your tickets here
4. Art of London’s Mr. Doodle Art Trail
For one month only this summer, with Art of London, visit Mr. Doodle’s wonderful sculptures spread across Soho with his free outdoor art trail. Paying homage to the great artists of London’s West End, this event is perfect for art-enthusiast families.
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Date: 28 July – 30 August
Address: Central London
5. Disney Princess Afternoon Tea
At Park Corner Brasserie inside the London Hilton, let your little girl’s dreams come true with a trip out to the Princess Afternoon Tea. Indulge in petits fours and desserts inspired by your favorite princesses, from irresistible cheese wedges that even small Gus could not resist to a Heart of Te Fiti biscuit.
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Dates: Every day, 12:30 – 7 pm.
Address: London Hilton on Park Lane Hotel, 22 Park Ln, London W1K 1BE
Book tickets here
6. Ice Cream at Stick & Cones
At Stick & Cones in Marylebone, enjoy freshly made ice cream and lollies that use quality, ethically sourced ingredients. Created by the founder as a space for families to enjoy the simple things, come and wind down, one scoop at a time.
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Dates: Every day, 12:00 – 11:00 pm (10:30 pm on Mondays and Tuesdays).
Address: 41 Paddington St, London W1U 4HN
7. Strawberry Picking Day Trip to Garson Farm
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city this summer and head down to Garson Farm in Esher, Surrey, for fresh air and family fun. Better yet, it’s a pick-your-own strawberry farm, so make sure to pick enough for your little berry lovers!
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Dates: Every day, 9:00 – 6:00 pm (5:00 pm on Sundays).
Address: Garson Farm PYO, Winterdown Rd, Esher KT10 8LS
Book tickets here
8. Borde Hill Restaurant Isca + Kids’ Club
This 5 September, Borde Hill‘s restaurant Isca is renewing its Saturday Kids Club. While you enjoy an unhurried lunch surrounded by beautiful greenery, your little ones will embark on their own adventure at the Treehoppers Forest School.
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Dates: 5 September, 12:30 – 3:00 pm.
Address: Borde Hill Ln, Haywards Heath RH16 1XP
Book tickets here
9. Horrible Science Adventure at the London Zoo
Visit the London Zoo this summer and watch as it transforms itself into a world of weird. Be transported back in time with appearances from wildlife pioneers from the past, and be prepared to laugh out loud in this live sketch show.
Dates: 18 July – 2 September
Address: Outer Cir, London NW1 4RY
Book tickets here
10. Winnie the Pooh Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason
Again, in celebration of Winnie the Pooh’s 100th birthday, enjoy a Winnie-inspired afternoon tea at the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon in London’s iconic department store Fortnum & Mason. With adult and children’s honey-focused menus, enjoy a matinee as a family in true English style.
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Dates: Until 14 September
Address: 4th Floor, Fortnum & Mason, 181 Picadilly, London W1A 1ER
Book tickets here
11. Matilda the Musical
With its 15th anniversary coming around the corner, celebrate the legacy of Matilda the Musical at London’s West End. Book a matinee or evening show at the Cambridge Theatre, and let Roald Dahl’s story of the little girl who dared to change her destiny whisk you away.
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Dates: Until 17 January 2027
Address: Cambridge Theatre, 12 Monmouth St, London WC2H 9LH
Book tickets here
12. Fairy Tales at the British Library
At the British Library, you will be transported to a whole new world. For children aged 3 to 10, let them discover fantastical lands and smell witch potions. But you have been warned: do not wake the troll!
Dates: Until 23 August
Address: British Library, 96 Euston Rd, London NW1 2DB
Book tickets here
13. Chillie Kids’ Club Workshop
Join the upcycling community at the Chillie Kids’ Club! In their workshops, they teach children not to throw away their clothes but to upcycle them in fun, different ways.
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Dates: Until 4 September (excluding bank holidays)
Address: 359 Portobello Road, London W10
Book tickets here
14. The Gruffalo
Tall Stories’ acclaimed musical, the musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, is back in the West End. Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, meet Mouse, the cunning Fox, the old Owl, and the high-spirited Snake.
Dates: Until 6 September
Address: Lyric Theatre, 29 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7ES
Book tickets here
15. Anansi the Spider, Regent’s Park
A Unicorn Theatre and Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production bringing West African and Caribbean folk tales to the centre stage. Learn how, long ago, the infamous spider Anansi was known to be the cleverest of all animals, and the most mischievous! Bring a blanket to lie down on and watch as the web of lies unfolds.
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Dates: 15 August – 6 September
Address: Picnic Lawn, The Regent’s Park, Inner Cir, London NW1 4NU
Book tickets here
16. Dog Man: The Musical
Little George and Harold have been comic writers for years. As they turn 10, they decide it’s time to switch gears and write a musical about their favorite character. Part dog, part man, see if Dog Man can defeat the world’s most evil cat, Petey, among others, in this 75-minute special at the Southbank Centre. And if George and Harold can finish their musical before lunchtime!
Dates: Until 16 August
Address: Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX
Book tickets here
17. Banksy Limitless: Reframed
Step into the thought-provoking world of Banksy. Running for a limited time only, Banksy: Reframed showcases new original works alongside more than 250 artworks celebrating the provocative artist’s iconic street art.
Dates: Until 23 August
Address: 79-85 Old Brompton Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 3LD
Book tickets here
18. House of Dreamers
Arriving in London for the very first time, let your imagination awaken at the House of Dreamers. Its 16 exquisite installations designed by Elena and Giula Sella create a world of reverie. Are you ready to dream?
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Dates: Until 30 September
Address: 2 Western Gateway, London E16 1DR
Book tickets here
19. Battersea Park Children’s Zoo
Reconnect with nature and visit the wildlife at Battersea Park Children’s Zoo for an eventful afternoon out in London.
Currently celebrating its 75th anniversary, follow suit and celebrate your kid’s summer birthday at the zoo. For animal lovers, it is the perfect party. They have many fun activities to offer – Become a zoo detective or even feed a farm animal!
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Dates: Every day, 10:00 – 5:30 pm
Address: Battersea Park, London SW11 4NJ
Book tickets here
20. Make Your Own Gelato at Brice London
What better way to cool down this summer than with a nice scoop of Italian gelato? Join gelato expert and Brice founder Lorenzo, a Tuscany native, and learn how to make authentic gelato from scratch in a 1.5-hour workshop at Brice London. Using eco-conscious ingredients and your own suave, each spoonful is sure to be delicious!
Dates: Running regularly, 5:00 – 6:30 pm
Address: Unit F11, School Rd, London NW10 6TD
Book tickets here
21. Art Detectives at the Royal Academy of Arts
Take a stroll through Mayfair and let your curiosity roam free at the Royal Academy of Arts. Become an Art Detective, study paintings from all exhibitions, and make up your own mind about the artworks!
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Dates: Every day, 10:00 – 6:00 pm (9:00 pm on Fridays).
Address: Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1J 0BD
Book tickets here (tickets are exhibit-specific)
22. Holiday Workshops at the Royal Institution
At the Royal Institution, accompany your child to a Holiday Workshop and learn about the vastness of science. From digital designs to studying bacterial evolution, watch as your little one develops their curiosity.
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Dates: Until 28 August
Address:Â 21 Albemarle St, London W1S 4BS
Book tickets here
23. Family Science Workshops at Imperial College London
This summer, attend a workshop at Imperial and broaden your young one’s horizons. As one workshop bridges Bollywood dance and science and another examines water purification, come experience it all at Imperial.
Dates: Until 6 August
Address: Imperial College School of Public Health, 90 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ
Book free tickets here
24. Ahoy! Children’s Gallery
At the National Maritime Museum, walk onto a ship and be transported to life at sea. Perfect for young children to let off steam, they can haul on ropes and play hide-and-seek in the cabins. Before setting foot back on land, make sure to stop by the other parts of the museum for a true family day out at sea!
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Dates: Until 28 August
Address:Â 21 Albemarle St, London W1S 4BS
Book tickets here
25. Family Dance Lessons at the Royal Academy of Dance
For children aged 2.5 to 3 years old, book a family dance class at the Royal Academy of Dance. Watch your little one build confidence, develop coordination, and move to the rhythm of the music together. Tiny feet, big smiles!
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Dates: Until 28 August
Address: 188 York Rd, London SW11 3JZ
Book tickets here
26. Bonbon Pottery Painting Workshop
For a relaxed activity, head to Bonbon Pottery in Notting Hill. Choose a piece of pottery, from vases to mugs, and let your creativity control your brush. What will you create?
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Dates: Open every day
Address: 64 Westbourne Grove, London W2 5SHÂ
Book tickets here
27. The Chimney Lift
For London’s visitors (or London aficionados), make your way over to Battersea Power Station and make your way up its iconic Chimney Lift for the most wonderful 360-degree view of the city. Learn about the building’s rich history through the interactive displays in Turbine Hall A. Up you go!
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Dates: Open every day, 10:00 – 6:00 pm.
Address: The Power Station, Circus Rd W, Nine Elms, London SW8 5BN
Book tickets here
27. Bounce Battersea
At Bounce Battersea, fun is at the center of it all. With ping pong tables in every corner of the restaurant, there is no room to be bored. While you enjoy a hearty lunch, your kids can bet who will win the next match!
Dates: Open every day
Address: Battersea Power Station Level 1, Turbine Hall B, 342 Circus Road South, London, SW11 8DD
Book a table here
28. Transformers Store
Calling all Transformers fans to Battersea. From collectibles to exclusive figures to clothing, let your children roam free in this store that blurs reality and adventure.
Dates: Open every day, 10:00 – 8:00 pm (12:00 – 6:00 pm on Sundays)
Address: Circus Rd W, Nine Elms G-032B, London SW11 8DD
29. Tampopo Fitzrovia
Have lunch this summer at Tampopo Fitzrovia. A true feast for the senses! Decorated like an East Asian market, the restaurant provides an oasis that children and adults both love. Stay for a delicious pad thai or curry and get lost in conversation around a family table.
Dates: Open every day
Address: 3-5 Rathbone Pl, London W1T 1HJ
Book a table here
30. Summer Screens: Family Gaming Event
For children aged 5 and above, play Mario Kart and Just Dance on the big screens in Canada Square Park. Whether your family is competitive or not, make your way down to Canary Wharf for some light-hearted family fun. It is on a first-come, first-served basis, so get there early!
Dates: 29 and 30 August, 1:00 – 4:00 pm
Address: Canada Square Park
31. Hamleys Puppet Party Bus
Climb aboard the Hamleys Puppet Party Bus. Here, you will enjoy live puppet demonstrations from the puppet master and visit the wonderful views London has to offer.
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Dates: Every weekend in August until 16 August
Address: Embankment Stop 40b, London WC2N 6PB
Book tickets here
32. 50-meter Zip Line
If your children need to let off some steam, make your way to the Gloucester Gate Playground in Regent’s Park. Not only can they enjoy the 50-meter zip line, but they can also play in a large sandpit. Renovated in 2020, it now has all-natural materials, making it the perfect environment for imaginative play.
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Dates: Open every day, 10:00 – 7:30 pm
Address: Gloucester Gate Playground, Regent’s Park Terrace, London NW1 4RY
33. Hire a Pedalo in Regent’s Park
Glide across the tranquil waters of Regent’s Park’s picturesque Boating Lake on a pedalo, taking in views of the surrounding gardens and wildlife. With a capacity of 4 per boat, spend a lovely afternoon with your family, and do not forget to stop at Waterside Café afterwards for a quick bite.
Dates: Open every day
Address: The Regent’s Park, Hanover Gate, London NW1 4NU.
Book tickets here
34. Swim in Hampstead Heath
To escape the London heat, dip your toes into the ponds at the Heath. From a Ladies’ Pond to a Mixed Pond to the 60m Lido, you will find what works best for your family. Don’t forget to pack some snacks and your sun cream!
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Dates: Open every day
Address: Hampstead Heath
Book tickets here
35. All Star Lanes Bowling
Party like an MVP this summer at All Star Lanes Bowling. From bowling alleys to karaoke booths to arcades—All Star Lanes has it all!
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Dates: Open every day
Address: Ariel Way, London W12 7FU
Book tickets here
36. Paddington Bear Experience
For the fans of London’s most loved bear, head down to South Bank and immerse yourself in a multi-room interactive experience. Help Paddington and his family as they prepare for the most special day, the Marmalade Festival!
Dates: Open every day
Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB
Book tickets here
37. Greenwich + Docklands International Festival
In celebration of London’s vibrant community, the International Festival is back this summer at the Greenlands + Docklands. Though the events run for two weeks, make sure not to miss Greenwich Fair from 22 to 23 August. Expect circus shows, games, and family-friendly street theatre at Greenwich Park Hill.
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Dates: 21 August – 6 September
Address: East London
No tickets necessary
38. Legoland Windsor
Woosh your way down to Windsor, board the Flight of the Sky Lion at Legoland Windsor, and become master of the skies! Brace yourself, however, as you will face Lego’s dreaded chimera.
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Dates: Every day, 10:00 – 6:00 pm
Address: Winkfield Rd, Windsor SL4 4AY
Book tickets here
39. 3-month National Art Pass
For an art-heavy summer, book yourself and your family a National Art Pass. Not only does it give you 50% off entry into major exhibitions across the country, but it also gives free entry to cultural destinations such as Colchester Castle. Visit more for less!
Book passes here
40. Beano Havoc, Hampton Court Palace
Dennis and his pals were late to their Bash Street School trip to Henry VII’s palace. To help, Dennis decided to craft a time machine, but it crashed into the palace! Everything is in chaos. Save the day and help Dennis and his pals make the trip on time.
Dates: 25 July – 23 August
Address: Hampton Ct Way, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU
Book tickets here
41. Barbican Conservatory
Watch as the streets of Moorgate turn into a tropical oasis during your visit to the Barbican Conservatory. Be amazed by the greenery and reconnect with nature as a family. Before you leave, make sure to enjoy the most of your family day out at the Barbican Centre.
Dates: Running regularly, until 27 September
Address: Barbican Centre, Silk St, London EC2Y 8DS
Book free tickets here
42. Story Centre, Stratford
At Story Centre, befriend a penguin and jump over alligators in their immersive rooms (spanning two floors!). For newborns to 11-year-olds, let your child’s imagination run wild this summer.
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Dates: Every day, 10:00 – 5:00 pm
Address: 383-387 High St, London E15 4QZ
Book tickets here
43. A Day Out to Holland Park
For those moms seeking a moment of zen. Take a trip to Japan with the park’s iconic Kyoto Garden. Slow down and admire the koi fish. And say hello to the peacocks on the way out!
Dates: Every day, 07:30 – 8:00 pm
Address: Ilchester Place, London W8 6LU
44. Palace Bowl Festival, Crystal Palace Park
The Crystal Palace Bowl is back in action. For a small time only this summer, come and listen to your favorite tunes (with the likes of Sophie Ellis-Baxter and Lenny Kravitz). Come on, Mom, let’s dance!
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Dates: 31 July – 16 August
Address: Fisherman’s Rise, London SE26 6UT
Book tickets here
45. Monopoly Lifesized
Monopoly is so big; it is everyone’s favorite family game. And it has only gotten bigger at Monopoly Lifesized London! Play like giants with their 4 life-size game boards. May the winner leave with the largest reward!
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Dates: Every day
Address: Monopoly Lifesized, 213-215 Tottenham Ct Rd, London W1T 7PS
Book tickets here
46. Mundo Pixar
Step inside the sets of your favorite Pixar movies at Mundo Pixar. Visit Andy’s iconic room with Woody and Buzz, take your turn controlling Riley’s emotions at headquarters, and dive beneath the Great Barrier Reef with Nemo and friends. You will never know what to expect next in this playful adventure.
Dates: Every day, except Thursday
Address: Plot 2, North East Lands, Fulton Rd, Wembley HA9 0TF
Book tickets here
47. Sunday Polo at the Ham Polo Club
Take a trip to Richmond Park and spend the day living lavishly at the Ham Polo Club. Whether your family decides to spectate from the picnic or clubhouse side, get ready for some good old divot stomping.
Dates: Every Sunday, 11:00 – 4:00 pm
Address: Petersham Rd, Richmond TW10 7AH
Book tickets here
48. Serpentine Family Days
Inspired by painter Cecily Brown, explore her world and imagination during a family day out at the Serpentine Pavilion. Participate in creative activities and performances for all ages. No tickets are needed, so show up and drop in. Top tip: Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a chill lunch on the green.
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Dates: 23 August, 11:00 – 3:00 pm
Address: Serpentine Gallery, Kensington Gardens, London W2 3XA
49. The Children’s Puppet Festival
The Children’s Puppet Festival returns at the Little Angel Theatre, celebrating its 65th anniversary this year. Enjoy a range of productions, from space to sea, that teach kids important life lessons. Among these, the world premiere of a new marionette production, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, is a must-see this summer.
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Dates: 28 July – 30 August
Address: 14 Dagmar Passage, London N1 2DN
Book tickets here
50. Henry Moore Family Trail, Kew Gardens
Explore the late artist Henry Moore‘s best-known sculptures in a fun discovery trail made for children. Scattered around Kew Gardens, these sculptures make for a perfect scavenger-hunt-esque city break with kids in London. Listen to the soundscapes and play games from Moore’s childhood to fully immerse yourself in his world.
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Dates: Until 31 January 2027, 10:00 – 7:00 pm
Address: Kew Gardens, Richmond, London
Book tickets here
Any Questions or Tips to add?