Things to do in London with kids this summer 2026
- Tracy Tristram
- Aug 6
- 16 min read
ALL the Things to Do in London with Kids This Summer 2026 in One Handy Guide
Looking for the best things to do in London with kids this summer? You’re in the right place.
Whether you’re planning the school holidays on a budget, looking for free family events, hunting down splash parks, booking a West End show, or just trying to get everyone out of the house before they start climbing the walls, this is your London for Kidz guide to summer 2026.
London’s summer school holidays usually run from Monday 20th July to Tuesday 1 September 2026, although dates can vary slightly by school and borough. So before you book anything, double-check your own school dates and always check the event website before travelling.
Bookmark this page — we’ll keep adding brilliant family days out, summer holiday activities, festivals, theatre deals, free things to do and hidden gems across London as more events are announced.
Quick Picks: Best Things to Do in London with Kids This Summer
Need ideas fast? Start here.
Best for free family fun: Greenwich + Docklands International Festival
Best for theatre lovers: Kids Week in the West End
Best for colour, music and atmosphere: Notting Hill Carnival Family Day
Best for a hot day: Granary Square fountains or Tooting Bec Lido
Best for active kids: FootGolf at Golf Kingdom or cycling in the Royal Parks
Best for a low-cost day out: Southbank Centre, free museums and a riverside picnic
Best for “something different”: Outdoor theatre, pop-up performances and family festivals
Free Things to Do in London with Kids This Summer
London can be eye-wateringly expensive, but some of the best family days out are completely free.
Greenwich + Docklands International Festival 2026
When: 21 August – 6 September 2026
Where: Greenwich, East London, Thamesmead and other outdoor locations
Cost: Many events are free
Greenwich + Docklands International Festival is one of London’s best free family-friendly summer events. Expect outdoor theatre, circus, dance, large-scale performances, installations and wow-factor shows in public spaces. It’s ideal for families because you don’t need to sit still in a theatre, many shows are outdoors, and lots of the programme is designed to be accessible and easy to dip in and out of. Look out for performances in Greenwich Park, Woolwich, Romford Market and Greenwich Peninsula as part of the 2026 programme.
London for Kidz tip: This is perfect for kids who like spectacle, movement and “what on earth is happening over there?” energy.
Southbank Centre Summer
When: Throughout summer 2026
Where: South Bank
Cost: Mix of free and paid events
Southbank is always a winner with kids because you can turn it into a full day without needing to spend a fortune. The Southbank Centre’s summer programme includes music, workshops, outdoor performances, family events and free activities, plus you’ve got the river, street performers, food stalls, the skate park and loads of nearby attractions.
Make it a budget day with a packed lunch and a wander along the Thames, or level it up with a show, the London Eye, SEA LIFE London Aquarium, London Dungeon, Shrek's London Adventure, a trip on a Thames Rocket or The Paddington Bear Experience - all nearby.
Good for: All ages
Best bit: You can be spontaneous — no military-level planning required.
Granary Square Fountains, King’s Cross
When: Daily during daylight hours
Where: Granary Square, King’s Cross
Cost: Free
On a hot day, Granary Square fountains are one of the easiest free things to do with kids in London. There are 1,080 individually controlled water jets, and children can run, splash and cool off while grown-ups watch from a safe, dry-ish distance with coffee in hand. Coal Drops Yard, the canal steps, family-friendly restaurants and King’s Cross station are all nearby, so it’s an easy add-on if you’re already in central London.
Bring: Spare clothes, towel, sun cream and snacks
Avoid: Promising “just five minutes” unless you enjoy lying to yourself.
We also have this guide to all the other splash parks around London - many of which are free or low cost.
Free Museums for Rainy Days and Budget Days
When the weather turns, London’s free museums are your best friend. Top family-friendly options include:
Natural History Museum
Science Museum
Young V&A
British Museum
National Maritime Museum
London Museum Docklands
Tate Modern
V&A
Queen’s House, Greenwich
Many are free to enter, although some exhibitions, activities or special events may need booking.
London for Kidz tip: Free doesn’t always mean no planning. Some museums recommend advance booking, especially in the school holidays.
Read our guide to our favourite museums here.
Family Festivals in London This Summer
Notting Hill Carnival Family Day 2026
When: Sunday 30 August 2026
Where: Notting Hill
Cost: Free
Notting Hill Carnival is one of London’s biggest and most colourful events, celebrating Caribbean culture with music, costumes, dancing, food and serious atmosphere.
For families, Sunday 30 August 2026 is the key date, as it is the Families and Children’s Day. Expect children’s parade elements, costumes, music and a more family-focused feel than the Monday.
That said, Carnival is still extremely busy, loud and crowded, so it’s best suited to older children or confident little ones who are happy in big crowds.
London for Kidz tips:
Arrive early.
Plan your route before you go.
Bring snacks and water.
Use ear defenders for younger children.
Agree a meeting point in case anyone gets separated.
Don’t take a buggy unless you absolutely have to.
Best for: Older kids, teens and families who love music, colour and culture.
BBC Proms in the Park
When: 17th July through until 12th September 2026 (selected family concerts and events)
Where: Royal Albert Hall and various London venues
The BBC Proms isn't just for classical music fans. Alongside the famous evening concerts, there are family-friendly performances, relaxed concerts and opportunities to introduce children to live orchestral music in an accessible way. While younger children probably won't sit through a full evening Prom, there are plenty of performances aimed at families throughout the summer. If you've never taken your child to hear a live orchestra before, this is a brilliant place to start.
London for Kidz tip: Keep an eye out for relaxed and family concerts and book early —they're incredibly popular.
Theatre Deals and West End Shows for Kids
Kids Week 2026
When: 20 July – 31 August 2026
Where: Participating West End and London theatres
Cost: One child aged 17 or under goes free with a full-paying adult; up to two additional children can usually attend for half price
Kids Week is one of the best summer deals in London for families. Despite the name, it now runs across much of the school holidays, giving children the chance to see participating West End and London shows for free when accompanied by a full-paying adult.
More than 50 shows are taking part in 2026, and some performances also include activities, workshops or behind-the-scenes extras.
London for Kidz tip: Popular shows sell quickly. If you see a date, price and show that works for you, don’t faff about.
Best for: Kids who love musicals, theatre, dance, drama and big “first West End show” moments.
Outdoor Adventures and Active Days Out
FootGolf at Whalebone Golf Club, Romford
Where: Golf Kingdom, Romford
Cost: Paid activity
Best for: School-age children, teens and competitive adults
FootGolf is exactly what it sounds like: golf, but with footballs. Instead of clubs and tiny balls, you kick a football around a course and aim for giant holes. Golf Kingdom has an 18-hole purpose-built FootGolf course, and footballs are provided.
It’s easy to understand, active without being too intense, and a great option if you’ve got kids of different ages or a group that includes sporty and not-so-sporty types. There is also the option of crazy golf here too.
London for Kidz tip: Trainers are your friend. White jeans are not.
Cycling in the Royal Parks
Where: Hyde Park, Richmond Park and other Royal Parks
Cost: Free if you bring your own bikes; hire costs vary
Cycling is a brilliant way to burn off energy without spending loads. The Royal Parks have miles of roads and cycle paths, and cycling is welcomed where permitted. Hyde Park is good for a central London ride, while Richmond Park feels like a proper escape from the city, with wide open space, wildlife and bike hire available near Roehampton Gate.
Important: Cycling is only allowed on permitted routes, so follow signs, give pedestrians priority and keep an eye out for wildlife.
Best for: Confident young cyclists and families who want fresh air without leaving London.
Park Days, Picnics and Proper Running Around
Sometimes the best summer day out is the simplest. Great London parks for families include:
Hyde Park
Richmond Park
Greenwich Park
Battersea Park
Victoria Park
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Regent’s Park
Holland Park
Crystal Palace Park
Pack a picnic, bring a ball, find a playground and let them run themselves into a more manageable state.
London for Kidz tip: Crystal Palace Park is especially good if your kids love dinosaurs, playgrounds and slightly chaotic old-school London charm.
London Classics That Never Get Old
Some attractions are famous for a reason. If it's your first visit to London—or you've got family visiting over the summer—these iconic attractions deserve a spot on your itinerary.
London Zoo
Where: Regent's Park
Run by the Zoological Society of London, London Zoo is home to more than 8,500 animals from around the world. Families can explore themed habitats including the Land of the Lions, Tiger Territory, Penguin Beach and Monkey Valley, as well as daily animal talks and feeding sessions throughout the day. During the summer holidays, the zoo often adds extra family activities, trails and seasonal events, making it well worth checking the daily programme before your visit.
Best for: Animal lovers of all ages.
Madame Tussauds London
Where: Marylebone
Whether your kids want to pose with Marvel superheroes, the Royal Family, sporting legends or music icons, Madame Tussauds is one of London's most popular indoor attractions.
You'll also find the immersive Marvel Hall of Heroes, the Spirit of London taxi ride and the Chamber of Horrors for older visitors.
Top tip: Book ahead if you're visiting during the school holidays, as this attraction regularly sells out.
Tower of London
Where: Tower Hill
One of London's most famous landmarks, the Tower of London packs nearly 1,000 years of history into one unforgettable family day out. See the dazzling Crown Jewels, meet the famous Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters), spot the legendary ravens and discover stories of kings, queens, prisoners and daring escapes.
Throughout the summer holidays Historic Royal Palaces often runs family trails, live historical interpretation and children's activities, so check what's on before you visit.
Don't miss: The Crown Jewels—they're every bit as spectacular as you've heard.
Tower Bridge Experience
Where: Tower Bridge
Think Tower Bridge is just somewhere to walk across? Think again. The Tower Bridge Experience lets families explore the famous bridge from the inside, including the incredible high-level glass walkways where you can look straight down at the traffic and boats passing underneath.
You'll also discover the original Victorian Engine Rooms, where huge steam engines once powered the bridge lifts.
Perfect for: Curious kids, engineers in the making and anyone who loves an amazing view.
HMS Belfast
Where: The Queen's Walk, South Bank
Moored permanently on the River Thames, HMS Belfast is one of the most fascinating family attractions in London. Climb through nine decks of this real Royal Navy warship, explore the engine rooms, kitchens, medical bay and gun turrets, and discover what life was really like for the sailors who lived and worked on board. Children love being able to explore almost every corner of the ship.
Best for: School-age children, history fans and adventurous explorers.
The London Eye
Where: South Bank
No list of London classics would be complete without it. The London Eye remains one of the best ways to see the capital, offering breathtaking 360-degree views across London from its giant observation pods. On a clear day you can spot landmarks including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St Paul's Cathedral, Tower Bridge and even Windsor Castle in the distance.
London for Kidz tip: Sunset rides are particularly magical if you've got older children.
Water Play, Splash Parks and Lidos
Tooting Bec Lido
Where: Tooting Bec
Cost: From £5.20 for juniors
Best for: Confident swimmers and families who love a classic outdoor pool
Tooting Bec Lido is one of London’s best-known outdoor pools and usually opens for the spring and summer season from May. It’s a brilliant hot-weather option, but it gets busy during the holidays, so book ahead where possible and check session times before travelling.
Bring: Towels, goggles, snacks, sun cream and patience.
Granary Square Fountains
Already mentioned above, but worth repeating because it’s free, easy and brilliant.
Where: King’s Cross
Cost: Free
Best for: Younger children, spontaneous splash stops and hot days in central London
Concerts and Live Music With Older Kids
Somerset House Summer Series 2026
When: 16–26 July 2026
Where: Somerset House
Cost: Paid tickets
Somerset House Summer Series brings open-air live music to one of London’s most beautiful courtyards. This is more of a pick for older children and teens than little ones, as many events are evening concerts. However, if your teenager loves live music, this can be a brilliant “cool parent” summer outing.
The 2026 line-up includes artists across multiple nights, so check the official programme for age restrictions, times and ticket availability before booking.
Best for: Teens, music lovers and families wanting a special summer evening in London.
Brilliant Family Exhibitions in London This Summer
Looking for something a little different? London's museums and immersive experiences are packed with fascinating exhibitions throughout the summer holidays.
Vikings: The Immersive Experience
Where: Dock X, Canada Water
Step back more than 1,000 years into the world of the Vikings in this spectacular immersive experience. Using huge projection screens, virtual reality, interactive exhibits and life-size recreations, families can explore Viking settlements, meet legendary figures including Ragnar Lothbrok and discover what everyday life was really like in the Viking Age.
It's educational without ever feeling like school.
Best for: Ages 7+, history lovehttp://forever.Itrs and fans of adventure.
Pompeii: The Last Days
Where: Dock X, Canada Water
Travel back to Ancient Rome and experience the story of Pompeii before, during and after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Through immersive digital environments, archaeological discoveries and multimedia storytelling, families can learn about everyday Roman life before witnessing the dramatic events that changed history forever. It's one of London's most talked-about immersive experiences and a brilliant option for older children with an interest in history.
Royal Academy Summer Exhibition
Where: Piccadilly
The world's largest open-submission art exhibition returns for another summer, showcasing more than 1,000 works from established artists alongside exciting new talent. While younger children might not appreciate every painting, many families enjoy spotting unusual sculptures, colourful installations and interactive artworks together.
Rainy Day Ideas for London Kids
Because let’s be honest — it may be summer, but it’s still London. When the weather misbehaves, try:
Science Museum
Natural History Museum
Young V&A
London Transport Museum
London Museum Docklands
British Museum family trails
Theatre matinees
Indoor climbing
Bowling
Soft play for younger children
Cinema deals
Library events
Local council holiday activities
Budget tip: Libraries are hugely underrated in the summer holidays. Many run free reading challenges, craft sessions and story times.
Best Things to Do in London with Toddlers This Summer
Toddlers need space, snacks, toilets and the option to leave when everything suddenly becomes a disaster. Good toddler-friendly ideas include:
Granary Square fountains
Young V&A
Battersea Park Children’s Zoo
Princess Diana Memorial Playground
Coram’s Fields
Southbank riverside wander
London Museum Docklands
Local splash parks
Soft play cafés
Story sessions at local libraries
London for Kidz tip: Don’t overplan toddler days. One main activity, one snack stop and one emergency exit plan is plenty.
Best Things to Do with Tweens and Teens in London
Older kids can be trickier to impress, but London has loads that doesn’t feel babyish. Try:
Kids Week West End shows
FootGolf
Somerset House Summer Series
Notting Hill Carnival Family Day
Cycling in Richmond Park
Tate Modern
Southbank skate park
King’s Cross and Coal Drops Yard
Outdoor cinema screenings
Escape rooms
Climbing centres
Gaming cafés
Street food markets
London for Kidz tip: Feed them first. Then suggest the cultural enrichment.
We also have a guide to 50 things to do with teens and tweens this summer, so send them the link, stat!
Budget-Friendly Summer Tips for London Families
London does not need to bankrupt you every time you leave the house. Try mixing one paid activity with free add-ons nearby:
West End show + picnic in St James’s Park
Science Museum + Hyde Park
Southbank Centre + riverside walk
King’s Cross fountains + canal walk
Greenwich Park + National Maritime Museum
FootGolf + cheap-and-cheerful dinner nearby
Also remember:
Take refillable water bottles.
Pack snacks.
Check TfL before travelling.
Book popular activities early.
Use off-peak travel where possible.
Look for family tickets.
Check age restrictions before booking.
Always have a Plan B for rain, heatwaves or tired children.
Save Money This Summer with Merlin's "Twice the Fun" Offer
Family days out can be expensive—but this is one deal genuinely worth knowing about.
Merlin Entertainments' Twice the Fun promotion gives you a second visit absolutely free when you purchase a qualifying ticket during the promotional period. That means two amazing family days out for the price of one, making it one of the best-value offers available during the summer holidays.
Attractions included
Choose from some of the UK's biggest family attractions, including:
🎢 LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort
Simply buy a qualifying ticket during the offer period (click on any of the theme park links above), enjoy your first visit, then use your included barcode to pre-book your second visit at another participating attraction before the promotion ends. It's a brilliant way to squeeze even more memories out of the summer holidays without doubling your budget.
London for Kidz tip: School holiday dates are always the busiest, so don't leave booking your second visit until the last minute.
Fancy Escaping the City? Brilliant Family Days Out Near London
Sometimes you just need a break from the hustle and bustle. The good news? Some of the UK's best family attractions are within a couple of hours of London, making them perfect for a day trip or even an overnight adventure if you fancy extending the fun. From thrilling rollercoasters and medieval castles to rescued animals and classic seaside charm, these are some of our favourite family escapes.
Warwick Castle
Distance from London: Around 2 hours by car or train
History comes to life at Warwick Castle, where knights, princesses, birds of prey and spectacular live shows turn a day exploring a medieval fortress into a real family adventure.
Climb the towers, wander the beautiful grounds, explore the Horrible Histories® Maze, meet the resident birds of prey and watch thrilling live demonstrations throughout the day.
It's one of those rare attractions that genuinely keeps toddlers, teenagers and grandparents entertained.
Perfect for: Families wanting history without the boredom. Easy reach of Stratford-upon-Avon if you wanted to swing by there too.
Alton Towers Resort
Distance from London: Around 3-4 hours by car (set out early!)
A bit further afield, but well worth the journey, Home to some of Britain's biggest rollercoasters, Alton Towers is a fantastic day out whether you've got fearless thrill-seekers or younger children.
Little ones will love CBeebies Land, while older children and teens can tackle legendary rides including Nemesis Reborn, Wicker Man, The Smiler and Oblivion. It's a big park, so comfortable shoes are essential Read our full Alton Towers guide before heading up north. This one is also included in the current 2-for-1 theme park deal outlined further up the guide.
Port Lympne Safari Park
Distance from London: Around 1 hour 45 minutes by car
If your family loves animals, Port Lympne is well worth the journey. Set across hundreds of acres in Kent, the reserve is home to giraffes, rhinos, gorillas, lions, tigers, cheetahs and many other endangered species. One of the highlights is the included safari truck experience, taking you through areas where larger animals roam across open landscapes.
With play areas, beautiful gardens and plenty of places to eat, it's easy to spend an entire day here.
London for Kidz tip: Arrive early so you can fit everything in.
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
Distance from London: Around 40 minutes from central London
Looking for a family day out that gives something back? Hopefield Animal Sanctuary in Brentwood is home to more than 700 rescued animals, from pigs, cows and donkeys to sheep, goats, ponies, birds and much more. Unlike a traditional zoo, every animal here has its own rescue story, making it a brilliant opportunity to teach children about kindness, compassion and animal welfare. During the summer holidays there's even more to enjoy, including giant jumping pillows, soft play, mascot meet-and-greets, a bug room, children's trails, talks, feeding sessions and every paying child receives a FREE return ticket during the Summer of Fun event.
It's a fantastic value family day out that's suitable for all ages.
Cadbury World
Distance from London: Around 2½ hours by car
Chocolate for breakfast? Almost. Cadbury World takes families on a fun, interactive journey through the history of one of Britain's best-loved chocolate brands, with hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, chocolate-making experiences, rides and, yes... plenty of samples along the way. It's a brilliant choice for rainy days and younger children, although let's be honest—adults love it just as much.
Fancy Some Sea Air?
If the forecast is looking glorious, why not swap the city skyline for sandcastles and fish and chips? These seaside favourites are all within easy reach of London.
Broadstairs
Often voted one of Kent's best family beaches, Broadstairs combines beautiful sandy beaches, traditional seaside fun and a charming promenade packed with cafés and ice cream shops. Viking Bay is particularly popular with families thanks to its soft sand and sheltered feel.
Margate
A classic British seaside town that's had a stylish revival. Families love the sandy beach, Dreamland amusement park, arcades and old-fashioned bucket-and-spade atmosphere, while parents will appreciate the independent cafés and restaurants.
Whitstable
Famous for its oysters, colourful beach huts and relaxed harbour atmosphere, Whitstable is ideal if you're after a slower-paced family day out. Children will enjoy crabbing from the harbour, paddling along Tankerton Beach and hunting for shells, while adults can browse the independent shops and seafood restaurants.
Camber Sands
If you're dreaming of huge sandy beaches, Camber Sands is hard to beat. Its vast golden beach and rolling dunes make it one of the closest places to London that genuinely feels like a proper seaside holiday. Perfect for paddling, sandcastle competitions and family beach games.
Southend-on-Sea
One of the easiest seaside day trips from London, Southend offers beaches, Adventure Island, the world's longest pleasure pier, arcades and all the classic British seaside treats you'd expect.
It's particularly handy if you're looking for a spontaneous beach day without travelling too far.
Frinton-on-Sea
If you're after a quieter, more traditional seaside experience, Frinton-on-Sea is hard to beat.
Its wide sandy beach, colourful beach huts and gently sloping shoreline make it ideal for families with younger children. There are no noisy amusement arcades on the seafront, giving it a wonderfully relaxed feel that's perfect for picnics, paddling and lazy summer afternoons.
Clacton-on-Sea
Clacton has been entertaining families for generations and remains one of Essex's most popular seaside resorts. Alongside its sandy beach you'll find Clacton Pier, packed with rides, arcades and attractions, as well as adventure golf, crazy golf, gardens, cafés and plenty of places to grab an ice cream. It's everything you'd expect from a traditional British seaside trip.
Brighton
Brighton offers the perfect mix of beach, attractions and city buzz. Spend the morning on the famous pebble beach, enjoy fairground rides on Brighton Palace Pier, explore the quirky Lanes, tuck into fish and chips by the sea or head up the Brighton i360 for spectacular coastal views.
There's always something happening, making Brighton a fantastic option for families with older children and teenagers as well as younger explorers.
Final Word from London for Kidz
There are so many amazing things to do in London with kids this summer, from free festivals and splash parks to West End bargains, outdoor adventures and brilliant family days out. Whether you’re raising tiny explorers, theatre fans, football-mad tweens, culture vultures or snack-obsessed chaos gremlins, London has something for every family and every budget. Keep checking back as we update this guide with more summer holiday events, family attractions, free activities and London for Kidz favourites.
Because summer memories shouldn’t require a second mortgage.
Top image: London for Kidz
For more inspiration for things to fo in London with kids how about:
