Summer 2024 is finally here, even if the weather is a little bit unpredictable. If you're planning a trip to London this year, you're in luck! It's the school holidays and London has lots of summer holiday activities for a fun family day out!

Our capital city has many free activities, shows, exhibits, and splash pads for family fun. Enjoy all the entertainment it has to offer. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best things to do with your kids this summer in London.

Free Things to Do:

London is famous for its world-class museums and art galleries, many of which offer free admission. Take your family on a cultural adventure and visit the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, or the Tate Modern. A personal favourite is the Science Museum for its amazing hands-on exhibitions.

Top tip: Don't forget to check out the changing exhibitions and special events happening during your visit.

Here are a few super suggestions:

• The Natural History Museum is opening its wildlife garden for the first time in 2 years, after undergoing renovation work. It is opening just in time for the summer holidays and has a whole host of summer family activities to choose from. Fancy doing some pond dipping or meeting a scientist read all about it here.
• Painting at the Tate Modern- Artist, Oscar Murillo is transforming Tate Modern's Turbine Hall into a giant painting garden where visitors can use paintbrushes to create a large canvas. The event is running daily all summer until August 26, 2024 and is free to attend. Read all about it here.
• The National Gallery is hosting a free Summer on the Square Festival of art. Free daily creative sessions and activities for families to create masterpieces together. Collaborate, celebrate, and see what you can make.
• Check out a local city farm for some great free activities. Spitalfields City Farm is running free activities but you do need to book for some of them. So check them out and book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Shows to See:

London's West End is renowned for its incredible theatre scene, and catching a show is a must-do activity for families.

From classic musicals to enchanting plays, there's something for everyone. Look out for family-friendly productions such as "The Lion King," "Matilda the Musical," or "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child." Book your tickets in advance to secure the best seats and make lasting memories with your loved ones.

Looking for a show with a difference? Check out an outdoor theatre experience. The Theatre at Kew is showcasing- The Dream Fairies - Adventure to Bubble Land from 19th July until September.

Top Tip: Check out Official London Theatre here for their amazing Kids Week theatre ticket offer for the whole of the summer.

Amazingly, Kids aged 17 and under go free with an adult paying full price, and two additional children can attend for half price during Kids Week (which actually runs all summer long) from July 24 to September 6. Some shows also have workshop sessions or interactive curtain calls.

Visit a Parks:

London is known for its beautiful parks, and they offer a range of activities for families. You can have a picnic, play sports, go for a bike ride, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll. Some popular parks include Hyde Park, Regent's Park, Richmond Park, St. James's Park and Hampstead Heath.

Take a River Cruise:

Embark on a family-friendly river cruise along the River Thames. You can enjoy the scenic views of iconic landmarks such as the Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. Some river cruises also offer live commentary, making it a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

To keep the trip as cheap as possible, travel by uber boat. This is a great way to see London from the river at a fraction of the cost. The bonus of doing this is you can jump off and on to do some sight seeing. We recommend jumping off at Greenwich to visit the Cutty Sark.

Best Local Splash Pads and Outdoor Pools:

London can get quite hot in the summer, and what better way to cool off than a visit to a splash pad or outdoor pool? Luckily, the city has several fantastic options for families to enjoy. Head to popular spots like Hyde Park's Princess Diana Memorial Fountain or the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park's Tumbling Bay Playground. These places offer water play areas where children can splash around and have a great time. Additionally, some parks have outdoor pools that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Here are some really great recommendations for cooling off when the weather finally heats up:

Hampstead Heath Bathing Ponds:

Located in the picturesque Hampstead Heath, these bathing ponds provide a natural swimming experience for the whole family. There are separate ponds for men, women, and mixed bathing, ensuring a comfortable and safe environment. Enjoy a refreshing swim surrounded by beautiful scenery and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Serpentine Lido:

Situated in Hyde Park, Serpentine Lido is a popular spot for families seeking a swimming experience in the heart of London. The Lido offers a large swimming area, a dedicated children's pool, and a spacious sunbathing area. It's a great place to relax, cool down, and enjoy the summer sun.

London Fields Lido:

Located in Hackney, London Fields Lido is a heated outdoor pool that is open year-round. During the summer months, it's a fantastic place for families to swim and have fun. The large pool is surrounded by grassy areas, making it an ideal spot for picnics and sunbathing. There is also a separate children's pool for younger swimmers.

Tumbling Bay Playground:

Situated in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Tumbling Bay Playground features a fantastic water play area that kids will love. With fountains, streams, and sand pits, children can splash around and enjoy interactive water features. The playground also has climbing structures, slides, and swings, ensuring hours of fun for the whole family.

Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain:

Located in Hyde Park, the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain is a unique water feature that offers a serene and interactive experience. The fountain's design allows children to paddle and splash in the flowing water, creating a playful and refreshing environment. It's a great place to cool off and enjoy the beauty of the park.

South Bank Centre- Jeppe Hein's Appearing Rooms

This popular summer fountain is back, creating temporary rooms with water jets that disappear quickly. Visitors can enjoy the refreshing escape from the heat and admire the beauty of water art.

Parliament Hill Paddling Pool

The Parliament Hill Paddling Pool is open daily from May to September and is located next to a brilliant playground. It has a shallow incline to a depth of approximately 40cm.

These are just a few of the recommended outdoor pools and splash pads that families can visit in London during the summer. Remember to check the opening hours and any specific guidelines or restrictions before visiting.

These are just a few examples of the many activities families can enjoy in London during the summer. The city offers something for everyone, ensuring that you and your family will have a memorable and fun-filled time.

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