The Best Children’s Activities In London

From a day working as a zookeeper to interactive science experiments, there are plenty of children’s activities in London to keep them busy during the summer months

SOUTHBANK CENTRE

Located just across the River Thames from Corinthia London, the Southbank Centre is a hive of activity during the warmer months. Occupying a picturesque riverside setting, it’s a fully pedestrianised zone so kids can run around as they please. There is also a large adventure playground and a skate park. Inside, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly events and shows, including dance workshops and live music. The food market, which takes place at the back of the Southbank Centre, is the ideal lunch option for a family of fussy eaters, as it allows children to pick and choose from a host of stalls.

THE SCIENCE MUSEUM

Proof that science can be seriously fun, children can’t help but enjoy themselves at the entertaining and innovative Wonderlab at London’s Science Museum. Located in the Statoil Gallery, the space contains more than 50 exhibits including interactive shows and demonstrations. Divided into seperate zones that explore different kinds of scientific phenomena, there’s something here to engage all ages, from the friction slide in the Forces Zone to bubbling, foaming potions that children can help create at the Matter Zone’s Chemistry Bar.

KIDS WEEK AT THE WEST END

A fabulous way for families to experience the best of London’s West End theatres, Kids Week typically runs for the whole month of August. The scheme gives any child aged 17 or under free entry to participating shows, provided an adult paying full price accompanies them. Additionally, families don't have to pay booking fees and can purchase a further two children’s tickets at half price. Little ones under the age of five won’t miss out either - there’s a selection of shows and events especially designed for younger visitors.

JUNIOR KEEPER FOR A DAY AT LONDON ZOO

Animal lovers aged 11-15 can experience what it’s like to be a keeper for the day at the historic London Zoo. One of the most original children’s activities in London, the experience lasts three and a half hours. Participants are given a special Junior Keeper shirt and cap to wear before a briefing with an expert zookeeper then it’s down to business, feeding and mucking out the zoo’s residents including giraffes, meerkats and small primates. Parents are welcome to accompany their child to capture those special photo opportunities.