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London

Half term ideas in London with kids

London school breaks can feel busy before you even reach the first attraction. Rather than depend on a one-off holiday event, build a day around permanent collections, play spaces and a nearby outdoor reset. These suggestions work as starting points; school dates and special programmes vary.

Ages 5–12; adapt the length of each stop for your family.

Plan My Family Day

Six ideas for your day

  1. 1. London Transport Museum: a travel-themed morning

    Paid adult tickets; check child admissionindoor

    Make buses, signs and trains the theme, then leave time for lunch before another stop.

    Venue information

  2. 2. The Postal Museum: send a story

    Paid; check family ticket optionsindoor

    Use the postal collection to inspire a postcard or letter to write together afterwards.

    Venue information

  3. 3. National Maritime Museum: a sea voyage

    Free general entry; extras may chargeindoor

    Choose a ship-and-exploration trail through the collection rather than assuming a holiday workshop is running.

    Venue information

  4. 4. Young V&A: design inspiration

    Free general entryindoor

    Look for colours, shapes and inventions, then take one idea home for an afternoon drawing activity.

    Venue information

  5. 5. Science Museum: pick one big question

    Free general entry; experiences extraindoor

    Let your child choose space, flight or inventions and focus your visit on that theme.

    Venue information

  6. 6. Greenwich Park autumn explorer walk

    Free park entryoutdoor

    Collect leaf shapes in a notebook and stop for open-air play after the nearby museum.

    Venue information

Three practical tips

  • Book attractions before choosing your travel time; school-break entry slots can fill up.
  • Keep the plan to one main attraction and one optional nearby reset.
  • Check your school's break dates instead of assuming every London borough has the same half term.

Before you go

Are these London ideas specific half-term events?

No. They are evergreen venue and park suggestions, not a promise that a workshop or holiday show is scheduled. Check the venue's current programme if you want an event.

How can we make a London half-term visit less tiring?

Choose one area, reserve admission where possible and make the second stop optional. A planned meal and a short outdoor break can help keep the day manageable.

Ideas are guidance only. Please check opening times and prices before you travel.

Plan My Family Day