What to do this summer in London with kids
The school holidays are here and London is set to deliver for families. From free immersive experiences timed to blockbuster film releases, to brand-new family attractions and festivals taking over the city's most iconic spaces, this summer's line-up is one of the strongest we've seen. We've gone through everything landing in our inbox and pulled out the ones worth your time and your weekends with kids in London - here's what we've found.
British Puddings Masterclass hosted by Willett's at The Cadogan
Gather the family for a fun, hands-on masterclass to create classic British puddings at Willett's at The Cadogan, a Belmond Hotel. Hosted by Executive Chef Michael Turner, kids will learn how to make the perfect ice cream sundae, delicious cookies, and a crowd-pleasing Eton mess. While kids get stuck into perfecting their pudding skills, adults can enjoy a complimentary glass of Chapel Down sparkling wine upon arrival. Tickets cost £60 and include admission for one adult and one child aged 5+. In addition, throughout the summer, children can also eat free at the restaurant. A fantastic way to kick off the school holidays!
Book now via belmond.com
Summer Daze Festival arrives at Wood Wharf in Canary Wharf
Summer Daze Festival arrives at Wood Wharf on 23rd July for four days of culture, comedy, and live entertainment across one of East London's most striking waterfront settings. The festival is family-friendly and free to attend, making it an ideal pick for a long summer weekend with children. Kids can enjoy the likes of the Big Fish Little Fish’s family rave, a dedicated comedy club for kids, and an enchanting children’s ballet performance of Alice in Wonderland.
See more via canarywharf.com
Join The Sea Creature Rescue Squad at SEA LIFE London:
SEA LIFE has launched a new immersive summer experience across its UK aquariums, including London’s South Bank location. The Sea Creature Rescue Squad puts children in the role of ocean conservation heroes - a hands-on adventure theme layered over the existing aquarium visit. It's a solid full-morning or afternoon activity that earns its entrance fee with extra interactive content throughout the school holidays.
See more via visitsealife.com
Enjoy Disney Moana-Inspired Afternoon Tea at London Hilton on Park Lane
Moana fans will love the inspired afternoon tea at the London Hilton on Park Lane - the perfect way to celebrate the live-action Moana hitting UK cinemas on 10 July. Enjoy island-themed sweets including Heart of Te Fiti (matcha biscuit, cream cheese, white chocolate), Taste of the Sea (passion fruit curd, pineapple compote, lime zest), and the signature Wayfinder Scones. Savouries include the likes of The Carriage Awaits (plant-based chicken sandwich with pumpkin and sage mousse) and the whole thing is accompanied by a speciality tea list. At £45 for children and £70 for adults it's a treat rather than an everyday option, but the theme certainly makes it feel worth it. Available daily through the summer.
Book via sevenrooms.com
Head to the House of Dreamers for a family day to remember
Billed as Europe's must-see exhibition for all ages, House of Dreamers has arrived in London just in time for the summer holidays. The large-scale immersive art and experience installation has been designed to engage children and adults equally - the kind of thing that photographs beautifully but also delivers genuinely memorable moments in person for you and your little ones. Located in Immerse LDN at the Excel Waterfront, expect to see 16 immersive dreamscapes to ignite the imagination and a giant pink ball pit for the ultimate photo op. Trust us, this is a day out they’ll still be talking about when school returns.
Book via houseofdreamers.com
Experience hours of fun at the Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions is sure to provide hours of fun for kids this summer. With 70+ interactive installations - including illusion rooms, holograms, and optical puzzles - it's the kind of venue children want to go back to rather than being dragged through. Unlike many 'museum' experiences, this one genuinely rewards engagement; the exhibits are designed to be played with rather than observed. Even better, throughout the summer families can get 20% off and receive a £20 voucher for a future visit or gift shop purchase. The family ticket includes x2 adults and x2 children up to 12 years old.
Book via moilondon.uk
Take the Elizabeth Line to Mega City for an arcade day
Just eight minutes from the Elizabeth Line, a 55,000 sq ft entertainment playground has opened in Slough that is sure to become a favourite with families this summer. With over 170 games and experiences across three floors, it’s a must-visit during the summer holidays, especially when little ones need to burn off some energy on rainy days. With bowling lanes, arcade games, laser tag, karaoke rooms, football skill games and a VR arena, there’s something for all ages and interests all under one roof. And, if a birthday party is on the agenda, Mega City has a range of bookable party packages for small and large gatherings alike.
See more at mega-city.co.uk
See the new Harry Potter DroneArt Show
The DroneArt Show is returning to London with a brand-new Harry Potter experience this summer. Drone light shows have become one of the most best forms of outdoor entertainment, and this year you can watch hundreds of illuminated drones form characters, spells, and scenes from the wizarding world of Harry Potter in the night sky. The kind of thing children will talk about for months. See the show at Kempton Park Racecourse on 31st July and 1st August, or at Sandown Park Racecourse on 7th August and 8th August. The show starts at 9:30pm so factor in bedtime logistics!
Book via thedroneartshow.com
Meet Hamleys dragons or enjoy a puppet show on Regent Street
If you’re stuck for ideas of what to do with children in London during the summer months, you can always count on Hamleys. With a range of family events, interactive toy demonstrations and character experiences running throughout the school holidays, it’s the ultimate day out in the city. Kids can help train Hamleys Dragons for their very first festival experience or take centre stage at the puppet show. There’s magical storytelling sessions, character meet & greets, and musical performances too. Plus, this year sees the launch of the first ever Hamleys Puppet Party Bus. A 90-minute family adventure, taking in some of London’s most iconic landmarks with live puppet performances, interactive puppet dance workshops and family-friendly games.
See more at hamleys.com
