Plan Your Week in London With These Brilliant Family Activities
TRAVELWHAT'S ON
If you are staring at the calendar wondering how to fill the long spring afternoons without defaulting to soft play yet again, London quietly delivers one of its best weeks for family outings. Mid April brings immersive exhibitions, creative festivals and outdoor adventures that feel exciting for children and genuinely enjoyable for grown ups.
Here is where to go with kids in London next week.
A Creative Morning at Southbank Centre’s Spring Family Fun
If you only plan one cultural outing, make it Southbank Centre.
Running throughout spring, Spring Family Fun transforms the riverside venue into a relaxed playground of creativity and crucially it is designed so families can drop in without rigid schedules.
Expect:
puppetry shows and live performances
music workshops children can actively join
storytelling sessions for younger visitors
free creative activities scattered across the venue
Parents love it because there is space to roam, cafés everywhere, and the Thames walk provides an instant energy reset if attention spans fade. Many activities are free or low cost, making it an easy half day plan rather than a big ticket commitment. (silverspoonlondon.co.uk)
Best for: ages 3 to 10
Parent tip: Combine with a riverside scooter ride or playground stop at nearby Jubilee Gardens.
Step Inside an Immersive World at Bubble Planet
When British weather refuses to cooperate, immersive exhibitions are a parenting lifesaver.
At Bubble Planet: An Immersive Experience, children move through surreal themed rooms filled with giant bubbles, interactive projections and sensory installations designed for play rather than quiet observation.
Unlike traditional museums, kids are encouraged to touch, climb and explore which makes it ideal for energetic primary school children who struggle with look but do not touch environments. (feverup.com)
Best for: ages 4 plus
Parent tip: Book early morning slots to avoid peak crowds and overstimulation.
Try London’s Underground Theme Park
Yes, London has an indoor theme park and many parents still do not know about it.
Hidden beneath Camden, Babylon Park London offers rides, arcade games and space themed attractions entirely indoors. It is perfect for mixed age families because older kids can explore independently while younger ones enjoy gentler rides.
It is especially useful for after school outings when outdoor plans collapse. (feverup.com)
Best for: ages 5 to 14
Parent tip: Visit midweek afternoons as weekends feel like a birthday party marathon.
Outdoor Adventure Without Leaving London
For families craving fresh air, head to Gripped London, reopening its high ropes, zip lines and climbing activities for the spring season.
This is the rare outing where children burn serious energy while parents either join in or watch from picnic tables with coffee in hand. Activities range from beginner courses to genuinely challenging climbs. (feverup.com)
Best for: ages 6 plus
Parent tip: Bring gloves for younger climbers as confidence improves instantly.
Wander London in Bloom Without the Crowds Yet
Spring is quietly one of the best times to explore London on foot. Parks and streets begin to flower and pre festival displays start appearing across central neighbourhoods ahead of May’s major floral celebrations.
A simple family win:
cherry blossom spotting in Royal Parks
playground stops between walks
ice cream as motivation for reluctant walkers
April’s milder weather makes outdoor exploring far easier than peak summer sightseeing. (londonbackpackers.com)
Best for: all ages
Parent tip: Let children lead the route as it turns a walk into an adventure.