What to do in London in the school holidays

Well, if you’re thinking of taking them to London for a day trip or maybe a longer break, there’ll plenty out there in addition to the permanent London attractions. Here’s a selection that are near the river.

Underbelly

The 10th Underbelly Festival is well underway on the South Bank (nearest pier: Festival). It has lots of family-friendly shows and activities, as well as food and drink, as well as one of London’s biggest outdoor bars which should please the grown ups!

Zipline

If you like your sightseeing to be fast and furious, try the world’s longest city zipwire. Zip Now is open until 9th September. It’s located in Archbishop’s Park (nearest pier: Westminster) and enables you to  see London whizzing by at 50kph! Not for the faint-hearted but the kids are bound to love it! Search online for voucher codes and special offers as you may also be able to save money.

Theatre – kids go free in August

Going to the theatre is part of many people’s itinerary on a London visit, and if you get your tickets via the Official London Theatre website, kids go free in August! There are shows suitable for kids of all ages taking part in the promotion so you’re bound to find something everyone wants to go to.

Kids eat free at Skylon

Until the end of August, if you buy a meal, a kid under 10 can eat free at the Skylon Restaurant at the Royal Festival Hall (nearest pier: Festival). Included in the offer are kids activity packs to keep them entertained whilst you enjoy a special meal in peace. NB Sunday to Fridays only (check the T&Cs).

Outdoor cinema

For two weeks in the middle of August, Somerset House (nearest pier: Embankment) is teaming up with Film4 for Summer Screen. There are kid-friendly films being shown as part of the season, but with performances not starting till 9pm, it’ll be a late night, but most kids will love being allowed to stay up! On 19 August, there’s a screening of Disney’s Sleeping Beauty, and during the afternoon, you could do a free family workshop to help bring to life Sleeping Beauty’s dreams.

Boat trip on The Thames

If the hot weather continues throughout the summer, what a lovely way of cooling off and catching the river breeze as you see the sights between Westminster and Tower Bridge. Click here to book your tickets.