5 Brilliant Things to Do in London with Kids This Weekend
WHAT'S ONTRAVEL
Looking for ways to keep the children entertained this weekend? From underwater adventures and hidden gardens to creative workshops and fascinating exhibitions, London is packed with family-friendly activities over the next few days.
Whether you're hoping to burn off some energy, encourage creativity or simply enjoy a day out together, here are five of the best things happening across the capital.
Dive Into Ocean Adventures at the National Maritime Museum
If your children are fascinated by sea creatures, Saturday's World Oceans Day celebration at the National Maritime Museum should be at the top of your list.
This free event offers a packed programme of activities designed to help families learn more about our oceans and the wildlife that calls them home. Young visitors can take a virtual reality dive alongside manta rays, make their own flying puffin puppet, join scavenger hunts and discover the real-life creatures that inspired mermaid legends.
There are also comedy science shows, storytelling performances, live music and opportunities to meet scientists and conservation experts throughout the day.
The recently refurbished Ocean Court gallery is worth exploring too, with colourful new displays and a giant fish-themed map of the world that is sure to capture children's imaginations.
Best of all, every activity is completely free, making it one of the most budget-friendly family days out in London this weekend.
When: Saturday 6 June
Where: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich
Cost: Free
Get Creative at Somerset House's Artists' Fair
For families with older children who enjoy making, creating and exploring new ideas, Somerset House's Artists' Fair offers something a little different.
Part art market, part cultural festival, the event brings together artists, performers, workshops and discussions in one of London's most beautiful settings.
Children aged seven to ten can join the Spaghetti Club Kids Workshop, where they'll create their own DIY zines through drawing, storytelling and creative expression. The session encourages imagination and curiosity while introducing children to the idea of self-publishing.
Elsewhere, families can browse quirky stalls selling everything from artwork and books to unusual objects and vintage finds.
It is an eclectic mix, but that is very much part of the appeal.
When: Saturday 6 June
Where: Somerset House
Cost: Pay what you can
Step Into the Story of Marilyn Monroe
At first glance, a Marilyn Monroe exhibition may not seem like an obvious family outing. However, for families with teenagers or older children interested in photography, film, fashion or celebrity culture, this fascinating exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery offers plenty to discuss.
The exhibition explores how Marilyn Monroe became one of the most recognisable figures in modern history, bringing together iconic photographs, personal belongings, books and artworks inspired by her image.
It also reveals the woman behind the public persona, examining how carefully the famous "Marilyn" image was created and maintained.
A visit can easily be combined with a stroll through nearby St James's Park, making for an enjoyable day in central London.
When: Daily until September
Where: National Portrait Gallery
Cost: Under-12s free
Explore London's Secret Gardens
One of the capital's most popular annual events returns this weekend as more than 120 private gardens open their gates to the public.
Open Gardens Weekend offers a rare opportunity to explore beautiful green spaces that are normally hidden behind locked gates and private residences.
While garden visits may not sound like every child's dream activity, many participating venues are offering family-friendly events including arts and crafts sessions, workshops and live performances.
For parents, it is also a chance to discover a quieter side of London, away from the crowds and tourist hotspots.
Many of the gardens are buggy-friendly, and families can plan routes between locations using maps and suggested walking trails.
When: Saturday and Sunday
Where: Various locations across London
Cost: Adult tickets required, under-12s free
Visit London's Most Elegant New Landmark
If you are looking for a simple, free activity that can be combined with a day in the park, head to Kensington Gardens to see the new Serpentine Pavilion.
Each year, the Serpentine Gallery commissions an internationally renowned architect to create a temporary structure, and this year's pavilion is already attracting plenty of attention.
Children often enjoy exploring the unusual shapes and open spaces, while parents can appreciate the striking design and peaceful setting.
The pavilion sits within Kensington Gardens, making it easy to pair with a visit to the Diana Memorial Playground, a picnic or a walk through one of London's most family-friendly parks.
Sometimes the simplest outings turn out to be the most memorable.
When: Open now until October
Where: Kensington Gardens
Cost: Free
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