Summer Holidays in London 2021

Dare I say it? The summer holidays in London have come round whip-fast despite what’s felt like the slowest six months in history. Excitingly, the 2021 Summer Holidays in London guide is bumper-packed with fun things to do with the family. Have fun, stay safe and here’s wishing you an amazing summer!

Summer Holidays in London 2021: 40+ Things to Do

BABES CHOICE

Dodge at Somerset House, Somerset House, Strand, WC2R 1LA (Charing Cross tube) 
After months of postponement, Dodge is finally open at Somerset House. Hot designer Yinka Ilori has jazzed up the Somerset House courtyard, turning it into a spectacle of colour, sound and energy. Ride musical dodgems, tuck into food and drinks from pop-up maestro Jimmy Garcia, and hear DJs on select dates for Dodge Lates and Bump & Brunch. Walk-up rides available (£5 per person) but pre-booking is recommended, especially for tables (all advance bookings include a dodgems ride and a drink). Various times from 11am (closed on Mon). Dodge packages available: Dodge Duo (2 people) – £20 (Dodge & Drink), £55 (Sundae Funday), £100 (Bumper Summer Feast); Dodge Quartet (4 people) – £40 (Dodge & Drink), £110 (Sundae Funday), £200 (Bumper Summer Feast); Dodge Pod (4-6 people) – £90, -£300 (for Bumper Summer Feast). Dodge rides are FREE for kids ages 12 and under on Tue-Wed (12pm-3pm). Height restrictions apply. (Jul 15-Aug 22)

London Wonderground at Earls Court, end of Empress Place, just off Lille Road, SW6 1TT (West Brompton tube)
Underbelly’s famous upside down purple cow relocates from Southbank to Earl’s Court this summer. London Wonderground is your summer playground featuring a city beach, vintage rides, live acoustic music, outdoor bars, street food and family friendly theatre. Head to the Earls Court 2 Exhibition Centre Site to catch shows like 360 All Stars (Jul 17-Aug 15), The Gruffalo, The Witch and the Warthog (Jul 25-Aug 1), Fireman Sam Live (Aug 2-8), Dinosaur World Live (Aug 3-31), Morgan & West present The Three Musketeers (Aug 27-31) and the Mighty Kids Beatbox Comedy Show (Sep 4). 12pm-11pm (Thu-Sat), 12pm-10pm (Sun-Wed); various prices and times for shows/entry to London Wonderground site is free. (Jul 15-Sep 26)

Jurassic Encounter, The Bourne, Grovelands Park, 44 Queen Elizabeth’s Drive, N14 6RA (Southgate tube/Winchmore Hill rail)
Go back to the Jurassic, Triassic and Cretacious eras at this mega event taking over Grovelands Park this summer holidays in London before touring to other major cities. Walk through grasslands and woodlands and come face to face with 50 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs with realistic roaring sound effects. Each dinosaur installations offers an educational information panel for kids and adults to test their dino knowledge. There’s also VR machines, street food, merchandise trailer, ride-on dinosaurs and a fossil excavation pit. Entry times 10am-6pm; adult online £13.50, door £15; child online £11.50, door £13/family online £44, door £55 (Jul 24-Aug 10)

Uniqlo Tate Play at Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1 9TG (Southwark/Blackfriars tube)
UNIQLO Tate Play is a brand new programme of fun activities for families of all ages. Inspired by the art on display at Tate Modern, these activities will get you and your kids making, inventing and designing. This summer in london, you can transform the floor of the Turbine Hall into a giant piece of art with artist Ei Arakawa’s project Uniqlo Tate Play: Mega Please Draw Freely. Scribble, doodle and sketch to your heart’s content as part of the concept inspired by radical Japanese artists who aimed to change the world through painting, performance and play. Find more happening throughout the school holidays. 10am-6pm; FREE with timed ticket booked in advance (Jul 24-Aug 29)

Singing in the Rain at Sadler’s Wells, Rosebery Avenue, EC1R 4TN (Angel tube)
The splashiest show of the summer is live, after multiple postponements at the height of the pandemic. Ballet star Adam Cooper takes on Gene Kelly’s toe-tapping role in what’s sure to be a joyous adaptation of the Hollywood musical. Don’t miss out! 7.30pm (Tue-Sat), 2.30pm (Wed & Sat), 4pm (Sun); £15-£100 (Jul 30-Sep 5)

All Points East in the Neighbourhood, Victoria Park (Crown Gate), Grove Road, Bow, E3 5TB (Mile End/Bethnal Green tube)
East London music festival All Points East joins forces with Field Day for 2021. If you’re not ready to take your minions to a massive crowd, check out the free community festival All Points East NBHD. It’s three days of family friendly fun in Victoria Park, with live music, theatre, children’s entertainment, pop-up tennis, food stalls, film screenings and much more. All ages welcome. 12pm-9.30pm (Tue) & 10.30am-9.30pm (Wed & Thu); FREE (Aug 24-26)

Cinderella the Musical at Gillian Lynne Theatre, 166 Drury Ln, Holborn, WC2B 5PW (Holborn/Covent Garden tube)
Welcome to Belleville! In this picture perfect town, the only person refusing to live in a fairytale is Cinderella, the town pariah. When her bestie Prince Sebastian becomes heir to the throne after his brother Prince Charming disappears, their relationship takes a turn for the strange. Will The Godmother fix things for Cinderella? Andrew Lloyd Webber’s new musical is set to enchant West End audiences this summer. Recommended for ages 6+. Various performances 2.30pm (Wed, Sat & Sun) & 7.30pm (Thu-Sat); from £19.50 (until Oct 24/ongoing)

Paddington: The Story of a Bear at British Library (PACCAR 2), 96 Euston Road, NW1 2DB (Euston tube/rail, King’s Cross St Pancras tube/rail)
Follow the loveable bear from Peru on an adventure at the British Library. Walk in the messy bear’s marmalade trail to learn about his life in London. Dodge toppling pots of paints, explore original illustrations, film and animation, author Michael Bond’s notes, photographs and trusty typewriter. Some family activities will accompany the event through summer. 9.30am-6pm (Mon-Tue & Fri), 9.30am-7.30pm (Wed-Thu), 9.30am-5pm (Sat) & 11am-5pm (Sun); adult £8/child 12+ £4/child 0-11 FREE – 20% family discount for at least 1 adult with 1 paying child (until Oct 31)

LONDON PARTIES AND FESTIVALS

Kaleidoscope Festival at Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, London N22 7AY (Wood Green tube)
Who’s ready to party? Head to an open air festival at Ally Pally with good tunes and family friendly vibes. Catch Groove Armada, Ibibio Sound Machine, House Gospel Choir, Norman Jay MBE, Matt Jam Lamont, The Coral, Greg Wilson and Mr Wilson’s Second Liners. Family activities include Sam Sam Bubbleman, Storystock and the Flying Seagull Project. There’s also words and comedy, street food stalls and live DJs. The festival is paying extra attention to safety with audience numbers at 60% below capacity, socially distanced queues for bars and increased cleaning and hygiene protocols. All ages welcome (under 16s must be accompanied by adults). Register for early bird tickets at kaleidoscope-festival.com. 1pm-10.30pm; adult £59.80/child 5-15 £25.70/child under 5 £2.20/family from £37.70 (Jul 24)

Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave: First Event Back! at The Goodness Brewing Company, Coburg Road, N22 6TZ (Alexandra Palace rail/Wood Green tube)
Whoop whoop! The original family ravers are back with another baby friendly party and the second session is already sold out. Book asap for the earlier session of the Glastonbury-playing, world famous, award-winning family friendly rave. DJs Baker & Beale take over The Goodness warehouse with its kicking sound system (they also make their own beer). Play on Captain Cookie craft tables or Villa Pia baby chill out space. Facepainting, bubbles, confetti, balloons, foam, parachute dance all part of the mix. Licensed bar and great pizzas available. Optional fancy dress theme: floral/hippy. Ages 0-8 and families. 12pm-2pm (3pm-5pm SOLD OUT); adult £10/child £7/pre-walkers FREE (Jul 25)

Fun DMC x Jazzie B (Soul II Soul) at Colours, Hoxton Square, N1 6NU (Old St tube)
The last FUN DMC party we went to featured legendary Soul II Soul founder and DJ Jazzie B and it was an afternoon to remember. So we’re thrilled to say Jazzie B’s back on the turntables for the daytime family block party’s return. Expect a banging set of hip hop, disco, R&B and party anthems. There’s food served all day, a bar, graffiti train, photo booth, hip hop colouring in, soft play, dance competitions and more. 1pm-3.30pm; adult £8.50/child £6.50/family £25.50 (Jul 25)

Baby Loves Disco at Cavendish Square, W1G 0PN (Oxford Circus tube)
The OG dance floor party for clubbers with babies sets up at Underbelly Festival for summer holidays in London. Resident DJ Dub spins the floor fillers with pop classics to get mamas, papas and their spawn grooving. Suitable for parents of all ages, kids ages 0-7, older siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles. Everybody’s welcome. Outdoor and COVID safe with food and drink available and buggy parking too. 2pm; from £10/£35 family of 4 (Aug 22 & Sep 25)

Greenwich + Docklands International Festival, multiple locations
London’s leading festival of free outdoor theatre and performing arts returns for another brilliant two weeks. Don’t miss the weekend activities for Greenwich Fair and look out for other highlights including Black Victorians, Dancing City, Borealis, Dance by Design and Mystery Bird. All shows are suitable for all ages unless otherwise stated (check ahead). Various times and performances, FREE (Aug 27-Sep 11)

SPECIAL ATTRACTIONS

Tower Bridge Family Tours, Tower Bridge Road, SE1 2UP (Tower Hill/London Bridge tube/rail, Tower Gateway DLR)
Don’t miss the new interactive tour at one of London’s most famous bridges. Designed just for families, this tour brings the landmark building to life with fun facts and entertaining stories. Learn why the Bridge was built and walk the high-level walkways and Glass Floor, towering 42m about the River Thames. Best for kids ages 6+. Pre-booking essential. 10.30am (every Fri during the summer holidays); adult £25/child 5-15 £20 (includes entry to Tower Bridge)/under 5s FREE (from Jul 19)

KidZania’s Wonderland at KidZania London, Westfield London, Ariel Way, W12 7GQ (Shepherd’s Bush/Wood Lane tube)
Rediscover Alice in Wonderland in a new adventure at the city built for kids. The immersive package includes a garden party with the Queen of Hearts, White Rabbit Trail, Mad Hatter’s Tea Party and more madcap fun. Kids can write their own comedy routines, bust out some moves in the Garden Dance, or decorate biscuits fit for royalty. Then chill and watch a pre-recorded performance of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by West End performers. Each ticket includes 3 hours in KidZania London, entrance to the Wonderland area with six brand new activities, Alice performance and a drink and sweet treat. Timed admission 10am and 11.15am; adult £31/child £45 — NB no kids under 4 are currently admitted to KidZania London, please check the website for Covid terms and conditions (until Aug 29) 

Heritage Rides on the Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar station CM5 9AB or North Weald station CM16 6BT (via Epping tube)
Ride a steam or diesel train on the historic Epping Ongar route. Choose your own adventure, leaving from Ongar or North Weald. You can stop off along the way for a picnic or a ramble in Epping Forest. Special event weekends this summer include Peppa Pig and George (Jul 25 & Aug 28), Paw Patrol (Aug 8 & 15) and The Gruffalo (Aug 30). A really fun day out that will thrill your mini tank engine fans. Trains depart Fris/Sats/Suns and Bank Holidays in August from 9.45am; adult standard £14, special event £16/child standard £7, special event £8 (until Aug 30/ongoing)

FUN AND GAMES

Chaos Karts, Fleet Street Hill, Bethnal Green, E1 5ES (Old St/Bethnal Green tube, Liverpool St tube/rail, Shoreditch High St overground)
One for older kids and adults. Coming to Shoreditch this summer holidays in London, Chaos Karts is an all-new, live action video game experience. It combines the worlds of go-karting and video games to get you racing in real life. Zoom around tracks in a  digitally projected world, with virtual weapons and power ups to help you defeat your family and friends. Ages 13+. Arrive 30 minutes before start time, sessions last 75 minutes (max 8 karts per session). Entry times from 9am-10pm; off peak £33/peak £44/super peak £55 (opens Aug 14)

Monopoly Lifesized, The Courtyard, 213-215 Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7PS (Goodge St tube)
Play the world’s favourite family game on a 15m x 15m lifesized Monopoly board. You can compete in one of a kind challenges to buy properties, stage a heist in Mayfair, build some of London’s iconic buildings, solve a baffling murder mystery and more. Beat the clock, get the hottest locations, own it all. For ages 9+, younger ones can try the Junior Board. 12pm-midnight (Mon-Sat), 10am-10.30pm (Sun); adult £53-£73/child (Junior Board) £25-£27.50 (opens Aug 14)

Futureheads Summer Project, Hackney Showroom, 4 Murrain Road, Kings Crescent Estate, N4 2BN (Manor House/Finsbury Park/Arsenal tube)
Head to Hackney this summer holidays in London for an action-packed fortnight. Led by experienced, DBS checked youth leaders, each day offers a different adventure including games, creative workshops, problem-solving, collaboration… and water fights. Lunch provided and bring messy clothes and a waterproof jacket. Great fun for ages 8-11. Spaces are FREE and are prioritised for residents of Kings Crescent Estate, neighbouring area and Hackney Housing residents. Booking ahead essential (welcome email with details to be sent Aug 9). 10am-4pm; FREE but donations welcome (Aug 16-27)

Doctor Who: Time Fracture, UNIT HQ, Davies Mews, W1K 5AB (Bond St tube)
It’s 1940 and a mysterious weapon has caused a rift in the space-time continuum. We need Dr Who (and you) to save the day and spare UNIT from defeat. From Immersive Everywhere, the team behind theatrical hit, The Great Gatsby, Doctor Who: Time Fracture is fantasy fun for ages 8+ (under 16s must be accompanied by adult). Fancy dress welcome. 12pm, 12.45pm, 1.30pm, 6pm, 6.45pm & 7pm (Tue, Thu & Fri), 6pm, 6.45pm & 7pm (Wed, Sat & Sun); adult from £49.50 (until Apr 17 2022)

Play Base at National Army Museum (Ground Floor), Royal Hospital Road, SW3 4HT (Sloane Square tube)
Kids can climb a truck, play in the kitchen, bounce on an assault course and more. Five sessions a day with reduced capacity. Ages 1-8 (no bookings taken for babies under 1). Max 2 kids and 1 adult per booking – pre-booking essential. While you’re at the museum, pop into the West Indian Soldier exhibition (until Oct 31). 10am-5pm (sessions hourly); child 1-8 £5.75/adult FREE – prebooking essential (ongoing)

Plonk Mini Golf at Horniman Museum, 100 London Rd, SE23 3PQ (Forest Hill overground)
A child-friendly outdoor course with 9 holes, loops, hills, ramps and beams. All ages and abilities, best suited to ages 3+. NB: No groups larger than 6. Open 10am-4pm (daily) — book ahead. From child £4/adult £6 per round. You can also make your own Plonk At Home DIY Golf Course at home. (ongoing)

Mudlarks Play Space at Museum of London Docklands, No 1 Warehouse, West India Quay, London E14 4AL (West India Quay DLR/Canary Wharf tube)
Take your little ones to this exploratory play space for under 8s. There’s soft play, toys and an interactive look at the docklands. While you’re at the museum, why not check out some of their exhibits such as the Haverings Bronze Age mystery and the Krios of Sierra Leone? Bookings open from 10am for the following day (includes entry to the museum); FREE but tickets required (until Sep 5)

Draughts: London Board Game Cafe, multiple locations (London Waterloo and Hackney)
Draughts describes itself as a ‘melting pot of creativity, diversity and healthy competition’. Imagine two London venues stocked with more than 1000 unique board games. Food, craft beer and beer garden available. Open daily 10am-late (no under 18s without an adult past 9pm); booking ahead essential/£10 deposit for bookings of 2 or more (ongoing)

MUSEUMS & WORKSHOPS

Ryoji Ikeda at 180 Studios, The Strand, WC2R 1EA (Temple Station tube, Charing Cross tube/rail)
Tickets have been flying for this visually dazzling and immersive show at 180 Studios. It’s the largest exhibition of Ikeda’s works, including unseen pieces by the pioneering audio-visual artist. 12pm-7.30pm (Wed), 10am-6pm (Thu & Sun), 10am-9pm (Fri & Sat); adult £15/concs £10/under 18s FREE (until Aug 1)

Family Fun Weekend at Cutty Sark, Cutty Sark, King William Walk, London SE10 9HT (Cutty Sark DLR/Greenwich rail)
Climb aboard the world famous clipper ship for a weekend of family play. Inspired by Cutty Sark stories, you can create your own game, listen to resident sea shanty singers, try a craft activity and be whisked back to the 1870s with character actors. Covid safety precautions remain in place. All ages and abilities welcome. 10am-5pm; adult £15/child £7.50)/under 4s FREE (Aug 7-8)

Van Gogh Alive at The East Albert Lawn, Kensington Gardens, SW7 2AP (South Kensington/High Street Kensington/Knightsbridge tube)
It’s the world’s most visited immersive exhibition and a great day out for the whole family. Follow Van Gogh’s journey through the Netherlands, Arles, Saint Rémy and Auvers-sur-Oise in a multi-sensory experience with classical soundtrack. Before or after, let your little creatures loose at the nearby Diana Princess of Wales playground. 10am-8pm (Sun-Thu), 10am-9pm (Fri-Sat); adult from £24/concs £19/child £14/under 5s go FREE but require a ticket (Jun 4-Sep 26)

Quentin Blake: Gifted, at Foundling Museum, 40 Brunswick Square, WC1N 1AZ (Russell Square tube) 
Illustrator Quentin Blake presents 24 large-scale drawings from two emotive series ‘Children and Dogs’ and ‘Children, Birds and Dogs’ (made specially for Foundling Museum). The images are accompanied by poems by Jackie Kay, Michael Rosen, Yomi Sode, Opefoluwa Sarah Adegbite, 4 Brown Girls Who Write (Roshni Goyate, Sharan Hunjan, Sunnah Khan and Sheena Patel) and Ben Westwood. Kids are invited to write and illustrate their own story chapters, inspired by Blake’s drawings (details on the website). 10am-5pm (Fri-Sun); adult £10.50/child FREE (until Sep 26)

Nero: The Man Behind the Myth at British Museum, Great Russell St, WC1B 3DG (Tottenham Court Rd/Russell Sq tube)
He was big, he was bad, he was… misunderstood? Nero is a legendary villain of the Roman Empire who reigned over the Great Fire of Rome, Boudicca’s rebellion, the execution of his mum and first wife and more. But this exhibition of 200 spectacular objects promises to make you rethink the man behind the tyrant. 10am-5pm; adult from £20/child under 16 FREE (until Oct 24)

The Art of Banksy at Seven Dials, 50 Earlham Street WC2H 9LJ (Covent Garden tube)
See 80 of the famous street artist’s works all in one place at The Art of Banksy. The show has toured from Melbourne to Miami and features pieces on loan from private collectors. Some parental discretion advised for younger ones. 10am-6pm (Sun-Wed), 10am-9pm (Thu-Fri), 9.30am-7pm (Sat); timed tickets adult £25 (Mon-Fri) & £31.50 (Sat-Sun)/family £19.50 (minimum 1 guest ages 6-16, between Jul 19-Sep 3); child under 6 FREE (until Oct 31)

Monkey Business at Horniman Museum, 100 London Rd, SE23 3PQ (Forest Hill overground)
Go ape at this groundbreaking exhibition about our closest animal relatives. Follow the evolution of primates and how they adapted to their environments over the eras. From tiny lemurs to mountainous gorillas, there are more than 60 taxidermy specimens on display along with models, film and photos of forest life. 10am-5.30pm (closed Weds); adult £8/child £4.50/family £18/under 3s FREE (until Jan 2022)

Alice: Curiouser and Curiouser, V&A Museum (Sainsbury Gallery), Cromwell Road, London, SW7 2RL (South Kensington tube)
Drop into the extraordinary universe of Alice at this groundbreaking show. See drawings, photos, film, fashion and scripts all inspired by the imagination of author Lewis Carroll. Tickets for the week ahead released every Tue at 12pm! 11am-3pm (Thu-Sun, from Aug 6), then 11am-7pm (Thu-Sun, from Aug 27). 10am-5pm (last entry 4pm); £20/child under 12 FREE. Pre-booking essential. (until Dec 31)

FAMILY THEATRE

Maanika and the Wolf at Centre Court Shopping Centre, Centre Court Shopping Centre, 4 Queen’s Rd, SW19 8YA (Wimbledon tube/rail)
Blending past and present, Maanika and the Wolf is a captivating adaptation of Little Red Riding Hood. A grandmother revisits her childhood bedroom and remembers life as a young girl. Watch as she revives her Indian dressing-up box to reenact her own version of a popular fairytale. But who is the voice of the wolf on the phone and why does her granddaughter Ruby keep trying to change the story? Engaging storytelling and music for ages 3-6. 10am & 1.30pm (Wed-Fri), 10am, 11.45am & 2.15pm (Sat-Sun) adult/child £14, babe in arms £1 (Jul 29-Aug 29)

The Gruffalo Live on Stage at Ally Pally, Alexandra Palace Way, N22 7AY (Wood Green tube then W3 bus to the park, Gate 6 recommended entry)
The brilliant Tall Stories return with The Gruffalo Live On Stage. Follow Mouse on a daring adventure into the deep, dark wood where he meets a cunning fox, an eccentric old owl and a spirited snake. But will he end up as dinner or will the Gruffalo save the day? Based on the popular picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Songs, laughs and beastly fun for ages 3+. 11am & 2pm (Tue-Fri), 10.30am & 1.30pm (Sat-Sun); from £13.65-£21.90 (Jul 30-Aug 29)

The Windsors: Endgame, The Prince of Wales Theatre, Coventry St, W1D 6AS (Piccadilly Circus tube)
Fresh from the small screen, The Windsors: Endgame is a joyous stage adaptation of popular C4 hit The Windsors. Harry Enfield reprises his role as Prince Charles along with much of the TV cast. Watch Wills challenge his dad for the crown, with help (or not) from Harry and Meghan, an iron-fisted Camilla and a desperate Beatrice and Eugenie trying to clear their father’s name. Sword fights, snogging contests and more hilarity in this right royal send-up.From Aug 2-9 shows at 7.30pm (Mon-Sat), 2.30pm (Thu & Sat); from Aug 12-Oct 9 shows at 7.30pm (Tue-Sat), 2.30pm (Thu & Sat) & 3pm (Sun); from £13 (Aug 2-Oct 9)

Zog at Rose Theatre Kingston, 24–26 High Street, Kingston Upon Thames, KT1 1HL (Kingston rail) & Cadogan Hall, 5 Sloane Terrace, SW1X 9DQ (Sloane Square tube)
Flying back to the stage for summer holidays in London 2021, Zog is a live adaptation of the bestselling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. A dragon who wants to win a golden star at Madam Dragon’s school, Zog bumps, burns and roars his way through training. It takes a plucky Princess Pearl to patch him up ready for his biggest challenge… a duel with Sir Gadabout the Great. Zog features music, effects and storytelling suited to ages 3+ (all ages welcome). Rose Theatre shows at 10.30am/1pm/3.30pm (Fri-Sun) &  10.30am/1pm (Tue-Thu); £15. Cadogan Hall shows at 11am/1.30pm (Tue-Thu) & 11am/1.30pm/4pm (Fri-Sun); from £19.50 (family tickets from £65) (Aug 4-11 & Aug 18-29)

The Revel Puck Circus: The Wing Scuffle Spectacular at Leyton Jubilee Park, The Revel Puck Circus Big Top, E10 7BL
Enter the wild and wonderful universe of the Revel Puck Circus this summer. Walk through a village of caravans to glimpse and interact with artists prepping for the performance. Then watch The Wing Scuffle Spectacular, the UK’s only contemporary circus show with large-scale disciplines like teeterboard, cloud swing and tightwire in a big-top this year. 7.30pm (Tue-Fri), 2pm & 7.30pm (Sat), 12pm & 5pm (Sun); from £14 bench for 4 or 6/£15 bench for 2/family bench from £12 (until Aug 8)

Family Shows at Greenwich Theatre, Crooms Hill, London, SE10 8ES (Greenwich/Cutty Sark DLR, Canary Wharf tube)
Greenwich Theatre presents two productions this summer with the rescheduled adaptation of Joan Aiken’s novel The Wolves of Willoughby Chase running alongside a brand-new retelling of Pinocchio. Both shows are directed by Greenwich Theatre’s Artistic Director James Haddrell and promise magical storytelling, lively ensemble casts and vivid sets. Various times and prices. (Aug 8-Sep 5)

Little Angel Theatre: Puppet Picnic at Islington Square, 116 Upper St, N1 1AB (Highbury & Islington/Angel tube)
Join Little Angel Theatre for a summer series of performances and craft workshops. Chill out on a picnic blanket, catch a show and let London’s finest puppet theatre entertain you and your brood. You can pick up a picnic basket from Maggie & Rose or Megan’s and watch theatre including The Slightly Annoying Elephant, Don Quixote and Arbor. Meet some giant puppets and make your own!  and have a picnic with your loved ones whilst they entertain you with some really big puppets! Various dates and show time from 10.30am; £25 for 2 people (1 adult + 1 child or 2 adults), £10 for each additional adult or child (age 1+) on your blanket, babies under 1 FREE (Aug 9-29)

Sarah & Duck’s Big Top Birthday at Leicester Square Theatre, 6 Leicester Place, WC2H 7BX (Leicester Square tube)
CBeebies’ hit animated series arrives on the West End stage for only 4 performances. Told through inventive puppetry, storytelling and toe-tapping music, Sarah & Duck’s Big Top Birthday sees Sarah and Duck planning a circus-themed birthday party for Scarf Lady in their garden. But when the big top is blown away, can Sarah and Duck save the day? Catch the BAFTA winning show before it continues its UK tour. Ages 3-6. 11am and 1.30pm (Tue & Wed); £24 (Family of 4 £75 / Babes in Arms go free) (Aug 17-18)

 The Very Hungry Caterpillar at Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith, Lyric Square, King St, W6 0QL (Hammersmith tube/rail)
Fans around the world were broken-hearted to learn of the passing of Eric Carl earlier this year. You can catch this colourful adaptation of his best loved picture books at Lyric Theatre this summer holidays in London. Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, the critically acclaimed production showcases a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets bringing to life the stories Brown Bear, Brown Bear, 10 Little Rubber Ducks, The Very Lonely Firefly and of course, The Very Hungry Caterpillar. All ages welcome. 11am & 1pm; from £15-£21 (Aug 17-28)

Telling Tales at Shakespeare’s Globe, Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, Globe Theatre, 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, SE1 9DT (Blackfriars/Southwark tube)
Discover the home of Shakespearean theatre at this popular family story festival, back at the Globe this summer. Visit exotic destinations from Verona to Venice to imaginary islands, Scottish castle and the Athenian woods. A sensory, interactive way to enjoy the Bard’s plays including The Merchant of Venice, Macbeth, Romeo & Juliet and Twelfth Night. General age suitability 5-12 (younger ones admitted). Various dates and times; £12 per adult or child /under 3s do not require a ticket if on a grownup’s lap (until Aug 22)

Family Shows at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, box office Queen Mary’s Garden, Regent’s Park Inner Circle, NW1 4NU (Baker St tube)
One of the most fun things to do in summer holidays in London is visit the Open Air Theatre. Family friendly shows include Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, recommended for ages 12+ (until Jul 24); Anansi the Spider for ages 3-7 (Jul 7-24); the musical Carousel, recommended for ages 11+ (under 4s not admitted) (Jul 31-Sep 25); and from the creators of Dinosaur World Live, the puppet spectacular Dragons and Mythical Beasts for ages 3+ (Aug 13-Sep 5). Shows at various times; tickets from £10 (until Sep 25)

NATURE & OUTDOORS

Travel the World at London Zoo, London Zoo, Regent’s Park, NW1 4RY (Camden Town/Regent’s Park tube)
This summer holidays in London, you can travel the world in a day at London Zoo. Check in at the gate and collect your zoo passport before your global tour of remarkable species from every corner. From the wildlife of Africa’s savanna, to the India-themed Land of the Lions, to the new Giants of the Galapagos tortoise exhibit (opening Aug 30). Learn all about the zoo’s global conservation work and discover world cultures with pop-up activities, experiences and food stalls. Don’t forget to get your zoo passport stamped! Opening hours from 10am-4pm (timed entries, booking ahead essential); adult flexi ticket £34.54/child flexi ticket £24.20/under 3s FREE (cheaper tickets available on specific dates) (Jul 24-Aug 31)

Moomins at Walthamstow Wetlands, 2 Forest Road, Walthamstow, N17 9NH (Blackhorse Rd tube/overground)
In a unique collaboration with the William Morris Gallery, Walthamstow Wetlands is celebrating the work of Moomins creator Tove Jansson. The Woman Who Fell In Love With An Island draws on the parallels between the Finnish island where Tove spent her summers and the landscape of Europe’s largest urban wetland nature reserve. See an exhibition of photos, quotes, illustrations and art by Jansson along with a downloadable audio piece, and a family ‘Moomintrail’ with an interactive map. NB: The event might be sold out but you can still enjoy a day out at the wetlands and try booking ahead for the exhibition. 11am-4pm; sign up at the website for next release tickets and free audio download. Entry to Walthamstow Wetlands: open daily 10.30am-5.30pm; FREE (Jun 18-Sep 23)

Naturally Brilliant Colour, Kew Gardens, Kew, Richmond, London (Kew Bridge rail/overground)
Renowned visual and botanical artists join forces to pay homage to the jewel-like shades of nature. Immerse yourself in a large-scale kaleidoscope and see the influence of plants and animals on the art and fashion world. Tickets included with entry to the gardens: adult £10/young adult 16-24 £5/child 4-15yrs £4.50 (until Sep 26)

Spitalfields City Farm, Spitalfields City Farm, Buxton Street, London E1 5AR (Shoreditch High St overground/Bethnal Green tube)
Feeling a little meeeeehhhh? Take your kids to Spitalfields to experience the GOAT (wink) of London city farms. Meet the local livestock, browse for fresh produce and enjoy Brick Lane just around the corner. All ages. 12pm-4pm (Tue-Sat); FREE but donations welcome (ongoing)

Family Swim at London Fields Lido, London Fields West Side, Hackney E8 3EU (London Fields rail/Hackney Central overground)
London’s outdoor pools are bound to be packed during the summer heatwaves and London Fields lido is one of the coolest spots. Book ahead for year-round heated swimming, sun deck and sunbathing area, cafe on site. All ages welcome. 6.30am-9pm; adult £5/child £2.95, discounts for members (ongoing)

More outdoor swimming: go south to Tooting Bec Lido; south west to Hampton Pool in Bushy Park or look at this list of London lidos.

SUMMER CINEMA

Everyman Cinema Festival: Summer Love, Canalside Steps, Granary Square, King’s Cross, N1C (King’s Cross St Pancras tube/rail)
Sit by the canal and watch blockbuster films, classics and indie movies along with sporting events. Screening take place through the day. You don’t need a ticket but numbers are limited for safety, so get there early if you want a spot. Upcoming films include: Moana, Singing in the Rain, Back to the Future, Grease and the Parent Trap. Check the full programme. Screenings at 12pm (until Jul 18), 1pm, 3pm, 5pm & 7.30pm; FREE (until Jul 25)

The Luna Open-Air Cinema, multiple locations
The Luna is back for the summer with outdoor screenings at lavish locations around London, including Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, Kenwood House, Chiswick House, Kensington Palace and more. Catch family movies and live entertainment from the comfort and safety of your vehicle. Refreshments served and contactless payments only. Various times and films (check age ratings for movies); adult from £18/child from £13.50/family discounts available (through August)

Summer Screens, Canada Square Park & Cabot Square, Canary Wharf, E14 (Canary Wharf DLR/tube)
Another outdoor venue to relax and watch the Olympics, more live sports or popular movies. While you’re in the neighbourhood, why not pop down to Yinka Ilori’s designer basketball court at Bank Street Park or have a go at Mini Golf in Columbus Courtyard. Summer Screens runs 11am-7pm (times might vary, check ahead); FREE (until Sep 24)

Backstage Cinema: Miami Beach, Capital Studios, Ram Quarter, 13 Wandsworth Plain, SW18 1ET (East Putney tube)
It’s a joy to see cinemas opening all across town and if you want a heady escape, visit Backstage Cinema’s latest offering. Miami Beach invites you to a tropical themed setting, where you can sink your toes in the sand, relax on a beanbag and catch a box office banger. Enjoy refreshments including pizzas, cocktails and Slush Puppies and don’t miss their Sing-along movie specials on Saturdays. Various showtimes including 12.30pm, 4.30pm & 8.30pm and prices from £19.99 (until Sep 25)

Rooftop Film Club, at Bussey Building (Peckham) and Roof East (Stratford)
Settle on the rooftop for an open-air cinema trip in Peckham or Stratford. Summer blockbusters, classic cinema and indie movies are in the mix with lots of family friendly options. Food and drinks are available on site. Various times and prices – check with venue at booking (until Sep 26)

FOOD AND MARKETS

Gods Own Junkyard Takeover at Leadenhall Market, Gracechurch St, EC3V 1LT (Monument tube, Fenchurch St/Cannon St rail)
The cult London attraction Gods Own Junkyard takes over the cobbled streets of Leadenhall Market (one of the film locations for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter and other movies). View film stills and movie signage from Gods Own Junkyard’s work over 40 years with pieces from Batman, Tomb Raider and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Open 24 hours (check opening times for individual shops); FREE entry (until Jul 31)

Lower Stable Street Market, Lower Stable Street, Kings Cross, N1C 4LW (King’s Cross St Pancras tube/rail)
Browse stalls like Beth Whitfield (vintage jewellery and design), Zeph Store (baby clothing and prints), Dom’s Subs (yummy sandwiches) and Indies (West Indian, African and South American influenced cuisine). Stalls are handpicked by magazine-turned store, Kiosk N1C and many of the stallholders launched their businesses in the pandemic. Granary Square is on the other side for a fun family day out. 11am-4pm (Sat-Sun); FREE (ongoing)

Southbank Street Food Market, Belvedere Rd, SE1 8XX (Waterloo/Embankment tube/rail)
It’s a Summer Reunion at Southbank Centre and the street food market is open for business. Treat yourself to pancakes, burgers, curry, gelato, crepes, vegan dishes and more. Listen or dance to DJs playing on the terraces over special weekends. 12pm-8pm (Fri), 11am-8pm (Sat), 12pm-6pm (Sun & Bank Holiday Mon); FREE entry (ongoing)

Mercato Metropolitano, 42 Newington Causeway, SE1 6DR (Elephant and Castle tube)
Mercato Metropolitano is a gastro paradise, with food stalls featuring delicacies from around the globe. Baby and family friendly. 8am-11am (Mon-Wed), 8am-12am (Thu-Fri), 11am-12am (Sat), 11am-10pm (Sun); FREE entry, no bookings currently just drop-in (ongoing)

Horniman Food Market, Horniman Museum & Gardens, 100 London Road, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ (Forest Hill overground)
Open every Sunday, the socially distanced stalls offer a variety of produce and flavours. Tuck into delicious Ghanaian fusion from Zongo, Argentine empanadas from Chacarero or scotch eggs and sausage rolls from Comfort & Joy. Explore the museum, gardens and butterfly house before or after. 10am-3pm (Sun); FREE entry (ongoing)

LONDON DAY TRIPS

Escape the city with your brood…

Theme Parks: Legoland Windsor, Chessington World of Adventure, Alton Towers, Thorpe Park, Paultons Park, Diggerland

Nature & Wildlife: ZSL Whipsnade Zoo in Dunstable, Woburn Safari Park in Bedfordshire, Port Lympne Hotel & Safari in Kent, Mayfield Lavender Farm in Banstead.

Museums & Attractions: Roald Dahl Museum in Great Missenden, Beckonscot Model Village & Railway

Castles: Leeds Castle in Kent, Hever Castle in Kent, Warwick Castle in Warwickshire.

Beaches: These seaside escapes are around 2 hours or less from central London (by road or train): Whitstable, Brighton, Margate, Broadstairs, Camber Sands, Ramsgate, West Wittering, Folkestone, Botany Bay, Eastbourne, Bournemouth, Hastings, Herne Bay and Dover. Top tip: Keep crowd safe and research in advance to avoid a social distancing nightmare.

Did you like this guide? Why not sign up to the Babes about Town mailing list to stay in the loop?

**NB: Please note that all event timings and prices are subject to change/cancellation at short notice, so always check ahead with the venue before making a trip!**