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 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 over 50 exhibits including interactive shows and demonstrations. Divided into different 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 make 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 actually runs for the whole month of August. The scheme means that any child aged 17 and under receives free entry to participating shows, provided an adult paying full price accompanies them. Additionally, families do not have to pay booking fees and can buy a further two children’s tickets at half price. Little ones under the age of five won’t miss out either, as there’s also 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 and 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 also welcome to accompany their child to capture these special photo opportunities.