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10 things to do in London with kids this autumn
Keep the kids entertained with London’s top family-friendly activities.
The weather is cooling down but the kid’s energy is only ramping up. You’re not getting anything done with everyone home for the half-term Autumn school holidays. Next it’s the cabin fever. Sure a quick trip down to the park isn’t quite as appealing in the colder months but fear not – Between the charming Autumn colours and all the fervent Christmas countdown excitement, London comes alive with cozy, family-friendly activities for all ages, budgets and interests.
From magical theatre shows to thrill-seeking theme parks, here are our ten top things to do in London with kids this Autumn.
10. Catch a West End theatre show
You really can’t get anymore quintessentially London than a family outing to the West End. Snap up cheap theatre tickets over on our West End Guide and treat the kids to a magical show like Wicked, Matilda, The Lion King, Mrs. Doubtfire, or Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Think mind-boggling sets, striking costumes, meaningful stories, and earworm musical numbers. Each show offers an unforgettable experience, guaranteed to keep the kids entertained (at least for a few hours).
9. Dive into an immersive exhibition
For an engaging day of exploration, especially appealing to kids with big imaginations, head to one of London’s many immersive exhibitions. Step into The World of Tim Burton, explore the vibrant digital landscapes of Frameless, or head to The FRIENDS Experience and sip on a hot chocolate inside Central Perk.
8. Seek thrills at a theme park
For an adrenaline rush, take a day trip to Thorpe Park or Alton Towers. From heart-pounding rollercoasters, like the brand new record-breaking Hyperia, to younger-friendly attractions like bumper cars and teacups, these theme parks offer experiences perfect for the whole family to enjoy. And if you get them on enough rides throughout the day, you might tire the kids out enough for a peaceful recovery day afterwards. A two-for-one deal. How good?
7. Glide across the ice skating rink
When the UK’s seasonal ice rinks start popping up you know the Christmas countdown is really on. It’s time to lace up your skates! Pirouette around classic locations like Boots presents Glide at Battersea Power Station or pop down to Brighton for a day trip and enjoy the magical Royal Pavilion Ice Rink. With beautiful outdoor settings, festive lights, crisp air and a fun atmosphere, ice skating is the perfect family outing. Just make sure to pack the knee pads.
6. Or get inspired by the professionals
If you don’t quite have the skillset for ice skating and you don’t want to be pushing around one of those oversized penguins or hanging on to the barrier, why not get inspired and watch the pros on ice instead? Catch the enchanting Disney on Ice: 100 Years of Wonder, or check out Disney on Ice: Road Trip Adventures, where characters and performers glide across the rink in jaw-dropping performances.
5. Plan a sightseeing day in Westminster
If you’re looking for fun things to do in London with kids today, nothing says a day out in the capital like a leisurely stroll around Westminster. Let the kids take in some of London’s most famous landmarks. As an added bonus, in the early Autumn months, you’re just outside of the peak tourism season, and before the Christmas madness – So you can enjoy the Westminster atmosphere with less crowds. Nearby attractions like The London Eye, The London Dungeon, and SEA LIFE London Aquarium offer entertaining experiences that are just a stone’s throw from one another.
4. Cruise Down the Thames
Take a scenic family cruise down the Thames for a fun way to explore the city from the water. The Terrible Thames tour brings history to life with humour and storytelling, making it a fantastic choice for both kids and adults.
3. Join the circus
The circus is back in town! Check out Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular, an engaging spectacle full of acrobatics, wonder, and heartwarming musical moments from the beloved family flick The Greatest Showman. It’s one of the top things to do in London with kids this season, sure to captivate audiences of all ages.
2. Book tickets to a Family Show
London’s theatres aren’t just for big-name West End musicals. This season, family favourites like Room on the Broom, The Smartest Giant in Town, CBeebies Rainbow Adventure, and Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out are all on stage, offering interactive and age-appropriate shows perfect for younger children.
1. Take them to a sports match
For little sports fans, an autumn trip to a football, rugby, ice hockey, basketball or netball game can be a real treat. When it comes to things to do in London with kids, attending a live game at one of the city’s numerous sports venues offers an exciting way to experience London’s lively sporting culture.
Find more fun things to do in London with kids check out our guide.
