Summer in London 2018: 50+ Coolest Things to do with Kids

 

 
It’s hot, hot, hot in the capital and we’ve found the COOLEST things to do with kids this summer in London. Dive in.

 
FEATURED: WILD CHILD FESTIVAL
 

 
Wild Child Festival, at Trevor Bailey Sports Ground, Dulwich, South Circular Road, SE21 7LE (West Dulwich rail/by car, just off the South Circular Rd (A205)).
Grab your tickets now for this FANTASTIC sounding, creative family festival for ages 0-11. The three day festival offers a broad mix of baby, toddler and child-friendly activities, from kids coding, to comedy, magic with El Baldiniho, edible messy play with Grubby Bubs, unicorn meadow, Harmony Hideaway family music sessions (from funk to Afrobeats), disco tent and much more. Enjoy a family festival where you don’t need to bring a tent! Daily Fri-Sun, site & car park open 9am, activities from 10am; all-inclusive tickets from £24, under 3’s are £5, babies up to 18 months are FREE but require a ticket (Aug 17-19)

 

SUMMER IN LONDON: BABES CHOICE

 

 
Summer at Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd, SE1 8XX (Waterloo/Embankment tube)
A huge mix for all ages, from Jeppe Hein’s splash fountains (all summer), to Zoo Nation’s hip hop dance show (Jul 28). Highlights: Nelson Mandela Centenary exhibition (until Aug 19), free DJ sets every Thursday evening (Jul 26-Aug 23), pedal-powered outdoor cinema, Circus 250 Weekend (the 250th anniversary of clowning, Aug 17-19), Monstersaurus family theatre (Aug 7-12), and an enchanting performance of Oliver Jeffers’ How to Catch a Star (Aug 23-27). It all wraps with Great Big Summer Weekend (Aug 24-27), a free celebration of theatre, music and dancing on the terraces. Various times & prices, many activities FREE (Jul 25-Aug 27)

Summer by the River at London Bridge City, More London Riverside, SE1 2DB (London Bridge tube/rail)
Head to the riverside at Hay’s Galleria and The Scoop for a summer of free family fun. Party with Raver Tots (Jul 21), watch live bands throughout the week, take part in Kids Plant Workshops (Jul 21 & Aug 4) and catch outdoor film screenings of Moana (Jul 24), Guardians of the Galaxy (Jul 31), Beauty & the Beast (Aug 7), Jumanji (Aug 14), the BFG (Aug 21) and Into the Woods (Aug 24). Also see family theatre: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (Aug 8-Sep 2: Wed-Sat, 6pm/Sun 4pm) and King Arthur (Aug 8-Sep 2: Wed-Sat 7.30pm/Sun 5.30pm). Timings vary, all FREE (Jul 3-Aug 30)

The Vaults Presents: Sounds and Sorcery celebrating Disney FANTASIA at The Vaults at Waterloo, Leake St, London SE1 7NN (Waterloo tube/rail)
Enter the maze of tunnels under Waterloo to experience a human fish tank, mirrored waterfall, mystical forest, Grecian Disco Palace and more. The Vaults’ take on Disney’s Fantasia offers live reenactments, inspired by the classic Disney animation. A 96-piece orchestra brings pieces like The Sorcerer’s Apprentice to life, as you explore this interactive concert with 3D projections and dazzling lighting effects. Ages 3+ (younger ones welcome but no pushchairs allowed). Self-paced but allow at least 90 minutes. Entry times for adults with kids, every 10 minutes between 6.30pm-7.30pm (evenings), 1.30pm-2.30pm (matinees), 3.30pm-4.30pm (Suns); adult £33-£38, child £23.50-£28.50, family £94-£114, under 3s FREE (Jul 3-Sep 30)

Walking with Dinosaurs at The O2, Peninsula Square, SE10 0DX (North Greenwich tube)
The greatest creatures ever to walk the earth are back roaming the stage. The spectacular show described as ‘jaw-dropping’ by critics, sees T-Rex and pals stomping about in a live action battle for survival. 18 life-size dinosaurs create 1 hour and 40 minutes of epic entertainment for all ages (best for ages 3+). 7pm (Tue) & 3pm (Wed-Thu), 3pm & 7pm (Fri), 11am, 3pm & 7pm (Sat), 11am & 3pm (Sun); £29-£49/family £21.75-£29.25 each (Aug 14-19)

 

 
Smithfield 150: London’s Biggest Birthday Party, Smithfield Market, EC1A 9PS (Barbican/St Paul’s tube, Farringdon tube/rail)
Over August Bank Holiday, Smithfield celebrates its 150th birthday with a massive festival expected to attract up to 30,000 visitors. Our favourite East End ravers Disco Loco will be spinning tunes for all the family, along with Marawa’s Majorettes hula hoop masterclasses, Girls Rock London, Anorak magazine, puppetry processions, Comedy 4 Kids workshops, Horrible Histories shows, WAH nails, roller disco, traditional fairground, communal feasts, under 5s hangout zone with MotherBrunch, and live music stages. All ages welcome. 11am-8pm, FREE (Aug 25-26)

 

SPECIAL EVENTS

 

 
Africa Utopia (pictured) at Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd, SE1 8XX (Waterloo/Embankment tube, rail)
Once again, Southbank Centre celebrates the mother continent at this vibrant festival featuring headliners Amadou and Mariam, Chineke! orchestra, head wrap workshops, live podcasts, Afro dance championships, Afro-fusion dance workshops, African Pram Jam for under 5s, Yoruba through music, mini-making workshop with Afro retro, catwalk, marketplace, and an African block party on Saturday evening (6pm). All ages. Multiple times and prices, many activities FREE (Jul 19-22)

I Am Festival, Deptford Lounge, 9 Giffin Street, SE8 4RH (Deptford rail, New Cross overground)
Run by Casey Elisha, author of the acclaimed picture book Love Thy Fro, this one day festival celebrates diversity in children’s literature. There will be workshops from Nahdz Adventures, the I Can Project, illustrator Alieceee Cummings and Hair the Beat, plus stuff to buy including books reflecting a range of colours and cultures.12pm-6pm; adult £6/child £3.50/teen £4.50/family £15 (Jul 21)

St Katharine Docks Floating Film Festival, Floating Event Pontoon, St Katharine Marina, 50 St Katharine’s Way, St Katharine’s & Wapping, London E1W 1LA (Tower Gateway DLR, Tower Hill tube)
Back for another summer, the delightful film festival on the water features big screen treats, cool craft beer, cocktails and snacks. Recline on a beanbag or deck chair and watch family favourites like Paddington 2 (Jul 21, 2pm), Jumanji (Jul 22, 2pm), Back to the Future (Jul 28, 2pm) and Top Gun (Jul 29, 2pm). Screenings at 2pm & 7pm; from £12/£24 beanbag for 2 (Jul 21-29)

More open-air cinema around London: travel with The Nomad; views from above at Rooftop Film Club; canal-side cinema with Floating Cinema; the brilliant Film 4 Summer Series at Somerset House; Kew the Movies at gorgeous Kew Gardens (Jul thru Sep, multiple dates)

Disney’s Aladdin and The Lion King Summer Pop-Up, 25 Long Acre, WC2E 9LY (Covent Garden)
Head to Covent Garden to explore this unique pop-up, where you can go behind the scenes of the hit stage shows, to see masks, puppets, costumes and more. Enter the ‘Cave of Wonders’ and take a photo with Aladdin’s lamp. Join a treasure hunt, try puppetry and stage makeup masterclasses, or catch a brief performance from The Lion King or Aladdin. Between 11am-6pm daily (activity times vary, see online for schedule); FREE (Jul 31-Aug 26)

EO Railway: PAW Patrol and The Gruffalo, Ongar station CM5 9AB or North Weald station CM16 6BT (via Epping tube)
Ride real steam and diesel trains along the Epping-Ongar Railway and meet some very special guests this summer in London. The characters from PAW Patrol will be around all weekend (Aug 3-4) and on the final weekend (Aug 26-27) you can encounter The Gruffalo. A children’s disco at North Weald and face painting add to the fun. All ages. From 10.30am-3.30pm; adult from £13 adv-£15 day; child from £7 adv-£8 day; family of 2 adults and 3 kids from £34 adv-£39 day (Aug 3-4 & Aug 26-27)

Kids Summer Holiday Fun in Camden Market, Camden Lock Place, NW1 8AF (Camden Town tube/Camden Rd overground)
Take your brood to Camden Market over the summer where there’s loads to do, from munching your way through Kerb street food stalls, to exploring the new monthly African Market (summer dates Aug 4 & Sep 1, 10am-7pm). You can also try new crazy golf course Plonk! (daily 11am-7pm) or pop into family shops like Moomin & LittleElephant Store. Cool off with experimental ice cream from Chin Chin Labs, and take a ride on a canalboat or even have a go at kayaking. Daily, FREE entry (ongoing)

 

LONDON BEACHES & POOLS, FOUNTAINS & WATER SLIDES

 

 
Vita Coco Giant Slip and Slide at Lambeth Country Show, Brockwell Park, Dulwich Rd, SE24 0NG (Brixton tube/Herne Hill rail)
One of the main features of this year’s Lambeth Country Show, the Vita Coco Slip N’ Slide will be in the main field. The 50ft x 120ft inflatable slide invites guests to don their swimsuits and go hurtling down, as a fun way to beat the heat. You can also enjoy free samples of Vita Coco coconut water to help you stay hydrated throughout the day. Ages 7+ 12pm-8pm, FREE (Jul 21-22)

*Find out why many locals and supporters are boycotting this year’s Lambeth Country Show!*

Brent Cross Beach (top image), Brent Cross Shopping Centre, NW4 3FP (Brent Cross/Hendon Central tube)
Put on your cossies and hit the beach at this sandy pop-up, back for another summer in London. Brent Cross Beach features acres of sand, plus fairground rides, giant paddling pool, food stalls, Punch & Judy shows, circus workshops and more fun in the sun. All ages welcome. 12pm-10pm daily; £3 entry/£1.50 ride tokens or £10 for 10 tokens (Jul 14-Sep 2)

There’s more sandcastle building at Urban London Beach at London’s Royal Docks (Jul 18-Sep 2, 10am-8pm); Neverland London in Fulham; Hampstead Beach at JW3 (until Sep 2); by the riverside at Southbank Centre (through summer) and an outdoor beach at Ruislip Lido (ongoing)

London Fields Lido, London Fields West Side, Hackney E8 3EU (London Fields rail/Hackney Central overground)
Sure it’s a trap for East London trendies and jam-packed on a hot day, but this floodlit 50m outdoor pool is still a breath of fresh air in the city. Recently renovated London Fields Lido features all-year heated swimming, plus sun deck and sunbathing area, as well as a cafe on site. All ages welcome. 6.30am-9pm; adult £5/child £2.95, discounts for members (ongoing)

Find more outdoor swimming: go south to Tooting Bec Lido> or Brockwell Lido; south west to Hampton Pool in Bushy Park, Middlesex; go central to Oasis Sports Centre pool or the Serpentine Lido, or head north to Parliament Hill Lido and Hampstead Heath Bathing Ponds (ongoing). Check out this list of London lidos in your area.

Younger ones can have a splash in paddling pools at Clissold Park; Highbury Fields; Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground; V&A Museum; Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park (ongoing)

Aqua Splash at London Aquatics Centre, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London, E20 2ZQ (Stratford rail/tube/DLR/overground)
London Aquatics Centre offers year-round family swimming in their Olympic sized pools. The Aqua Splash (ages 5+), Extreme Aqua Splash (ages 8+) and Ultimate Aqua Splash obstacle sessions sell out quickly, so book now if you fancy your chances. Daily 6am-10.30pm, adult £4.95-£5.15, child £2.75-£3/Aqua Splash adult £7.50-£10, child £5-£7.50

More family friendly indoor pools: Finchley Lido Leisure Centre, Park Road Leisure Centre in Hornsey, The Castle Centre in Elephant and Castle with kids pool; Leyton Leisure Lagoon, Aquaterra in Upper Holloway; see list of London indoor pools in your area.

Or why not try hotel pools with family swimming like: Park Plaza London Waterloo, Park Plaza London Riverbank and Park Plaza Westminster Bridge (kids welcome 8am-8pm); children’s pool at London Marriott Hotel County Hall (kids welcome 9am-7pm); Novotel London Blackfriars or Novotel London Brentford; the Marylebone Hotel (ages 5+, 10am-12pm & 3.30pm-5.30pm); restricted hours at The Landmark London; Grange Hotel Holborn

Granary Square Fountains, King’s Cross, N1C 4BH (King’s Cross St Pancras tube/rail)
When it’s super hot, do a fountain dash at these fabulous fountains, gorgeously lit up after dark. You’re surrounded by great foodie spots, picnic areas, Ruby Violet ice cream, the Regent’s Canal with Floating Bookshop, Canopy Market at the weekend, and a variety of activities all summer. Just up the road you can take a canal boat ride with London Canal Museum, happening at various dates (book ahead).

Splash through more fountains at Lewis Cubitt Garden at King’s Cross; Jeppe Hein’s Appearing Rooms at Southbank Centre; the V&A museum fountains; Somerset House fountains, Victoria Park Splash Playground at the Hub; Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park fountains (ongoing)

We also like
Head to the beach! Escape the city with a day trip to one of these beautiful seaside locations, under 2 hours train ride from central London: Camber Sands, Whitstable, Broadstairs, West Wittering, Margate, Brighton, Ramsgate, Botany Bay, Folkestone, Dover and Bournemouth.

 

HOLIDAY CAMPS & ACTIVITIES

 

 
Futureheads (pictured), Hackney Showroom, Hackney Downs Studios, Amhurst Terrace, E8 2BT (Dalston Kingsland/Dalston Junction overground/Rectory Rd rail)
Run by the brilliant Hackney Showroom, with a team of pro, DBS-checked youth leaders, this popular holiday camp is all about problem-solving while having fun. Activities include an escape room challenge, urban treasure hunt, obstacle course, Dragons Den style presentations, and a water wipeout. Ages 8-11. 10am-4pm, £30/£15 concs (Jul 23-27)

Unicorn Theatre Holiday Workshops, 147 Tooley Street, Southwark, SE1 2HZ (London Bridge tube)
Choose from their popular Play in a Week 5-day sessions (Drama Week sold out, but Puppetry Week available Jul 23-27, £445 per child, payable in instalments). Or try their 1 & 2 day workshops in August (£55/£100) from Ceilidh dancing, to West African dance and drumming, to costume and set design. Age range 7-16, timings and prices vary (Jul 23-Aug 25)

V&A Museum of Childhood: Summer Art Camp, Cambridge Heath Rd, E2 9PA (Bethnal Green Tube)
A week of creativity and fun, where you can pick and mix from sessions with School of Noise (Jul 30-31); DIY filmmaking (Aug 1-2); or Alternative Art and Design (Aug 3). You’ll work with different media to create pieces, inspired by the museum’s collection. Ages 8-11. Minimum booking 2 days. 10am-3pm; £70 (2 days), £95 (3 days), £120 (4 days), £150 (5 days), siblings discount 10%. Booking essential (Jul 30-Aug 3)

Kidzania Summer Camp, Westfield London (1st floor between M&S and Gap), Ariel Way, W12 7GA (Shepherd’s Bush tube/overground)
Camp out at the city for kids this summer in London, with a range of activities giving your younger ones a taste of grown-up jobs. Every day kicks off with an energising warm up in the stadium, followed by a full day of fun including 2 hours of free play. Summer Camp also sees two new themed day sin partnership with Middlesex Cricket and WWE, where you can meet the Middlesex Cricket players ro pose in the ring at the WWE Academy. Ages 6 to 12. 8.30am-6pm (weekdays only); from £67.50 per child (1 day) to £337.50 per child (5 days), discounts available e.g. save up to 25% by booking 5 days (Jul 30-Aug 16)

Polka Theatre: Summer Workshops, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB (South Wimbledon tube)
As well as some cracking family theatre (Double Act, The Everywhere Bear, Jack & the Beanstalk) playing this summer, Polka Theatre are also hosting a range of fun and affordable workshops for kids, from ages 6 months to 14 years. You can book in for 1 or 2 hour sessions, or sign your kids up for whole day workshops, learning and performing drama (Play in a Day, Aug 1) or dance (Move On Up, Aug 2). Kids ages 8 to 14 can do Polka’s week-long Summer School series, where they can learn Musical Puppet Theatre (Aug 6-10), or put on a Summer Stage Show (Aug 13-17). 10.30am-3.30pm for full day workshops, £30 per day or £150 for week (Aug 1-17)

We also like
Holiday workshops for kids at Super Camps (multiple locations); Royal Institution Summer Schools from ages 7-14 (selling out fast, several dates available until Aug 30); animation and filmmaking workshops at BFI Southbank (Jul 23-Aug 18)

 

FAMILY THEATRE & FUN

 

 
Little Angel By the Sea at Little Angel Theatre, 14 Dagmar Passage, N1 2DN (Angel tube)
Windbreakers, brollies and sandcastles! Get a taste of the seaside at the popular puppet theatre, in this inventive take on Punch & Judy. Who stole the sausages? Was it the gnashing crocodile, the cheeky baby, or someone else entirely? A playful mix of puppet making, sand play and a whodunnit perfect for younger ones. This immersive experience has audience members watching and making their own puppets! Best for ages 3 to 9, baby-friendly shows on Suns at 1pm. Varying shows at 10.15am/12pm/2.15pm/4pm/5pm (Fris); adult £13.50/child 1-15 £11.50 (Friday Fives tickets £5 at 5pm Fri) (Jul 13-Aug 5)

David Walliams’ Mr Stink (pictured) at Chickenshed Theatre (Rayne Theatre), Chase Side, Southgate, N14 4PE (Cockfosters/Oakwood tube)
Best selling children’s author David Walliams has another of his books adapted for the stage, after the hugely successful Chickenshed version of The Midnight Gang. In this not so fresh tale about homeless ‘Mr Stink’ and his dog, we meet 12-year-old Chloe who adopts the straggly pair and houses them in her family’s shed. But why does Chloe’s mum take all the credit, and just who is Mr Stink anyway? Funny, poignant and a little bit smelly, it’s brilliant for ages 6+. 7pm (Tue, Wed & Fri), 3pm & 7pm (Thu & Sat), 1.30pm & 5.30pm (Sun); from £5-£15 (Jul 18-Aug 5)

Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre: Dinosaur World Live, box office Queen Mary’s Garden, Regent’s Park Inner Circle, NW1 4NU (Baker St tube)
Visit the enchanting theatre in the park to catch the last performances of Shakespeare’s As You Like It (until Jul 28). For bigger kids, there’s an affectionate B-movie musical tribute in Little Shop of Horrors (Aug 3-Sep 15). And by popular demand, Dinosaur World Live (Aug 14-Sep 9) returns with an interactive jurassic adventure for ages 3+. Pack a picnic and clothing for all temperatures and make the most of this fabulous London experience. Ticket range £18-£65 (Jul 19-Sep 15)

Madagascar the Musical at New Wimbledon Theatre, 93 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1QG (Wimbledon tube/rail)
Like to move it, move it? Dreamworks (Shrek the Musical) present another toe-tapping, crack-a-lackin’ show, featuring family favourites Alex, Marty, Melman, Gloria and King Julien live on stage. Follow the Central Park Zoo animals on their madcap journey to Madagascar in a bubbly production starring X-Factor 2016 winner Matt Terry. Ages 3+. 7.30pm (Tue-Sat), 2.30pm (Wed, Sat & Sun); £18.90-£42.90 (Jul 21-28)

Alice in Wonderland at Kew Gardens, Victoria Gate, Richmond TW9 3JR (Kew overground/rail)
Tumble down the rabbit hole with a curious little girl. In a topsy turvy world, you might run into mischievous twins, a grinning cat and a very late White Rabbit. Open air theatre with interactive games and songs for ages 5+. Wonderful chance to visit the gorgeous gardens, travel the treetop walkway, and climb the Great Pagoda (ages 5+)!
10.30am (Tue-Sun) & 10.30, 2pm (Fri-Sat); adult £22.90/child 1-15 £17.90/under 1s FREE (Jul 21-Aug 27)

Underbelly Festival: What’s Hot this Summer, Underbelly Southbank Festival, London, SE1 8XX (Waterloo tube/rail, Embankment tube)
Last year we saw Metta Theatre’s fantastic street dance twist on The Jungle Book, this time it’s a circus/live music spin on The Little Mermaid (Jul 24-Aug 11, 12pm, 2.30pm & 7pm, from £11.50). Also at Underbelly: Morgan & West’s Utterly Spiffing Spectacular Magic Show for Kids (Jul 28, 12pm & Aug 27, 1pm & 3pm, from £10.25); Aliens Love Underpants (Aug 14-Sep 30, 1pm & 3pm, from £11.50) and Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall (Suns 3pm, Jul 22 & 29, Sep 2-30, from £8.50)

We also like
Family friendly Shakespeare at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre (varying dates); We’re Going on a Bear Hunt at Lyric Theatre, West End (until Sep 2); and Puppet Barge Theatre heads to Richmond for the summer.

 

MUSEUMS, GALLERIES & WORKSHOPS

 

 
 
Horniman Museum, 100 London Road, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ (Forest Hill overground)
We highly recommend the Horniman for a great family day out. This summer in London, you can play Plonk Crazy Golf in the Horniman Gardens, see their current exhibitions, catch Sunset Sessions live music (Jul 26, Aug 2 & 9), visit the aquarium, try family art workshops, and see a stuffed Bengali tiger! Varying dates and times; entry to Horniman is FREE (small fees for aquarium and some activities) (Jul 20-Sep 2)

Museum of London: Family Events, 150 London Wall, EC2Y 5HN (Barbican/St Paul’s tube)
As always, there’s a busy programme at Museum of London (and Museum of London Docklands). Find out who were the lousiest Londoners, rediscover London’s smelliest summer in the Great Stink Talk, go on a Roman London family walk, or explore the Mudlarks gallery play space for toddlers at Museum of London Docklands. Varying times and prices, lots FREE (Jul 21-Aug 31)

Royal Academy: Holiday Workshops, John Madejski Fine Rooms, Burlington House, Royal Academy of Arts, Piccadilly, W1J 0BD (Piccadilly Circus tube)
As the RA celebrates its 250th Summer Opening exhibition (pictured), there are a range of family friendly workshops this summer in London. Go with your kids to explore the galleries, then collaborate on a piece of art, in response to the world’s largest submission of contemporary art. Best for ages 7+. There are also free Family Studios on select Sundays, open to all ages. Holiday workshops 11am-1pm (Wed & Fri): adult £15/child £5; Family Studios 2pm-4pm (select Suns), FREE (Jul 22-Aug 17)

V&A Museum Family Events: May Half Term, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 2RL (South Kensington tube)
Throughout the summer in London, families can take part in digital family games, watch pop-up performances, try creative workshops as well as design and engineering at The Imagination Station. Don’t miss the V&A summer festival on Aug 27. Dates and times vary, all FREE (May 26-Jun 2)

Scoop: Pop Up Ice Cream Museum by Bompas & Parr at Gasholders 1, King’s Cross N1C (King’s Cross St Pancras tube/rail)
Experimental foodies Bompas & Parr present a show celebrating the past, present and future of one of the world’s favourite desserts. This immersive experience lets you explore the lighter (and darker) side of ice cream, understand the neuroscience behind it and more. Taste glow-in-the-dark ice cream… and expect ice cream weather. All ages. (until Sep 30)

Michael Jackson: On the Wall at National Portrait Gallery, St Martin’s Place (off Trafalgar Square), WC2H 0HE (Charing Cross tube)
Get off the wall and moonwalk along to this Thriller show celebrating what would have been Michael Jackson’s 60th birthday. The dynamic tribute to the King of Pop has more than 40 artists’ works on display, from public and private collections. Throughout the holidays, there are family friendly workshops at the NPG, many inspired by the gallery’s exhibitions. All ages welcome. Daily from 10am-6pm (+ Thu/Fri lates to 9pm); adult £15.50/child FREE (until Oct 21)

We also like
Fierce Play a family festival of live art and games at Tate Modern (Aug 11); explore Scandi art and design with Nordic Summer Family Days at V&A Museum of Childhood free, drop-in workshops; holiday fun at Ragged School Museum; free daily activities at British Museum ongoing + a sleepover with the mummies! (Jul 21, £60, ages 8-15); nocturnal animals in view at Life in the Dark at Natural History Museum + tons to do next door, at the Science Museum’s Wonderlab Galleries (ongoing); Nelson Mandela Centenary Exhibition at Southbank Centre (free) and Frida Kahlo retrospective at V&A Museum.

 

FESTIVALS & PARTIES

 

 
MONSTROUS! Printworks, 1 Surrey Quays Road, London SE16 7PJ (Canada Water DLR)
Brand new one-day festival taking over Printworks, with Raver Tots, The Beast (the world’s largest inflatable obstacle course), Arcade Alley for video game fans, Prince & Princess Unicorn Land, Chelsea FC Soccer School Zone, Hello Kitty Club, Superfunk Roller Disco, a Magical Fun Fair Town with dodgems, tea cups, Nerf Arena, Laser Quest and more. Plus a Baby Garden for ages 4 and under, and the Big Outdoors with street food, petting zoo and urban beach! All ages welcome, perfect for ages 4 to 14. 10.30am-7pm; morning (9.30am-1.30pm) or afternoon (2.30pm-7pm) sessions £28.50 each/family of 4 £70; all day pass £39 or £31 each for family of 4/pre-walkers FREE (Jul 29)

River Stage Festival, South Bank, SE1 9PX (Embankment/Waterloo tube)
Another year, another cracking line-up of free outdoor music, theatre and performance. Each weekend, a different company takes over the stage. Try an under 5s family dance workshop with Sadler’s Wells (Jul 20, 2.15pm), get folky with Ceilidh Liberation Front (Jul 22, 3.15pm & 4.15pm), embark on an adventure with The Star Seekers by Wardrobe Ensemble (Aug 11, 12.30pm) or rock out with the amazing Mrs H & the Singalong Band (Aug 11, 1.45pm). All ages (some events PG+). Varying times, FREE (until Aug 12)

Africa Centre Summer Festival, 66 Great Suffolk St, SE1 0BL (Covent Garden tube)
Anyone with an interest in African food, fashion, culture, dance, music and literature is invited to this annual festival, run by the popular Africa Centre in Covent Garden. Full line-up to be announced, last year saw acts like The Fedz on the music stages. There will be 2 music stages, 1 youth dance stage, 150 stalls and 9 streets of celebration. All ages welcome. All day, FREE (Aug 18)

Alexandra Palace Summer: The Great Fete, N22 7AY (Wood Green tube then W3 bus to the park, Gate 6 recommended entry)
Another brilliant day out at Ally Pally, with Jazzie B headlining on one of 3 live music stages, Silent Disco in the Woods, Block Party Cinema, street food, fun fair, ice skating, yoga, creative workshops, kids play zone and more. All ages welcome. 12pm-10pm; entry FREE (paid tickets required for Silent Disco and Block Party) (Aug 18)

Fun DMC x Notting Hill Carnival Special at PARADISE by way of KENSAL GREEN, 19 Kilburn Lane W10 4AE (Kensal Rise or Kensal Green Stations)
The hip hop crew are busting some serious moves this August Bank Holiday. DJ Spin Doctor, Jamie Rodigan (son of David) + guests are on the decks, playing family-friendly hop hip, dancehall and soca for a mini Carnival crowd. You’ll be just a stone’s throw from Notting Hill Carnival itself, with 3 rooms of fun including dance instructor, games room, food & drink and face painting. Ages 6 weeks to 60. 12pm-4pm, adult £8/child £6/family £25/pre-walkers FREE (Aug 26)

Find more family festivals in London and beyond in our summer festivals guide!

 

ACTION & ADVENTURE

 

The Monster, at Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY (Wood Green tube then W3 bus to the park, Gate 6 recommended entry)
It’s the ultimate bouncy castle experience for kids and adults alike and it’s back at Ally Pally for summer in London 2018! Take on 42 ridiculous obstacles on the world’s biggest inflatable assault course, also party with all-day DJs, try Flamingo and Unicorn ball pits and munch yummy street food. Ages 11+. Kids ages 11-15 allowed from 10am-11am daily, adults from 11am-11pm; £23/spectator £3 (Aug 24-27)

Liquid Leisure, Horton Rd, Berkshire SL3 9HY (Sunnymeads rail)
Just over an hour’s drive from central London, Liquid Leisure is home to a regular the UK’s first Ninja Warrior UK Aqua Park, where you can race friends or family on a floating obstacle course! Suitable for competent swimmers (able to swim 50m with buoyancy aid) from age 6 (height restrictions apply), it’s a fab day out on the water. You can also try paddle boarding, wake boarding, wake surfing and open water swimming. Ages 6+. 11am-8pm (Jul 20-31, Mon-Fri), 10am-8pm (Jul 21-31, Sat-Sun), 10am-8pm (Aug 1-12) & 10am-7pm (Aug 13-31); from £15 online/£20 gate per 50 min aqua park session (times and prices vary for activities, online discounts). Bar and grill on site, and a sandy ‘beach’ for lounging (ongoing)

Go Ape Battersea Treetop Adventure, Battersea Park, SW11 4NJ (Battersea Park/Queenstown Rd rail, Sloane Square tube then bus 137/452)
Deep in the jungles of Battersea Park, young Tarzans and Janes can ‘swing’ through the trees, climb to new heights and fly down a 50m zip wire. Younger ones can tackle the Button Bridge, Stepping Stones, Log Bridge or a 34.5m zip wire, and must travel with an intrepid parent. Afterwards, you can go say hi to the animals in Battersea Park Zoo, or feed your own little monkeys at a local restaurant. All ages welcome (minimum height 1m or 3ft 3in.). Open daily 9am-5.30pm (Mon-Fri), 8.30am-6pm (Sat), 8.30am-5.30pm (Sun) – NB times vary seasonally, check website before visit; all ages £21 (Treetop Junior); child 10-15 £28, 16+ £36 (Treetop Adventure) (ongoing)

We also like
Aerial workshops for kids at Flying Fantastic (multiple dates from July); bouncy fun for the whole family at Oxygen Freejumping in Acton, West London, Flip Out Trampoline Park in Earlsfield, south London, or Better Extreme Trampoline Park at Sobell Centre, N1 (ongoing); go whizzing down the world’s longest slide ArcelorMittal Orbit at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park (ongoing)

 

NATURE & OUTDOORS

 

 
London Zoo: Superhero Academy at ZSL London Zoo, Regent’s Park, NW1 4RY (Camden Town/Regent’s Park tube)
Captain Z invites superheroes in training to pick up their mission packs and masks, and learn about amazing animal powers. From owls with night vision to cheetahs with super speed and the gravity-defying gecko, you’ll be armed with knowledge about the most creative creatures on the planet. You’ll also learn how to battle arch enemy Plastico in a series of obstacles and challenges. All ages. 10am-5pm daily; free with regular zoo admission (online discount prices) adult from £24.30/child 3-15 from £18/family of 4 from £75.80/under 3s FREE (Jul 21-Sep 2)

Dusty’s Wildlife Rangers at WWT London Wetland Centre, Barnes SW13 9WT (Barnes Bridge rail/Hammersmith tube)
Follow in the steps of Dusty Duck and become a Wildlife Ranger. Meet at the Lodge where you’ll discover the new Ranger Camp, where you can learn to start a fire, build a shelter, cook by camp fire, and other skills for survival in the wild. More fun at WWT London Wetland Centre over summer includes bird watching, pond dipping and scavenger hunts. All ages. 10am-4pm; free with regular admission: (Jul 21-Sep 2)

A Day Out at Walthamstow Wetlands, 2 Forest Road, London N17 9NH (Blackhorse Rd tube/overground)
Do something a little different this summer in London? Escape with your brood to Walthamstow Wetlands, the new nature reserve that opened in October last year. Wear wellies and all-weather gear for a day in the great outdoors, with daily activities from angling to bird watching. Climb the viewing platform at the Grade II-listed Coppermill Tower for panoramic views of London. Grab a bite and a cuppa in their cafe. Family friendly workshops take place all year and through the holidays, so keep an eye on their events page. Open daily 9.30am-4pm; FREE entry (ongoing)

Join the Great British Wildflower Hunt (pictured), multiple UK locations
Go on a quest for wildflowers, using the downloadable free spotter sheets from the Great British Wildflower Hunt. Last year, more than 15,200 wildflowers were spotted by the British public, from the Channel Islands to the Orkney islands. Simply register online and share your finds on the website. You’ll be learning about beautiful flowers in your area and helping with Plantlife’s conservation work to see how well certain species are doing. All ages. Daily, FREE (ongoing)

FAMILY FOOD & DRINK

Ice Cream Crawl your way around London at our favourite ice cream, gelato and sorbet spots.

Fancy a slice? Grab one of the city’s finest from our list of London pizzerias.

See more family friendly restaurants in our Eat London with Kids section.

Have I missed anything? Tell me below. Here’s to a most excellent summer in London!