HIDDEN GEMS: LONDON'S BEST ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN
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Someone visiting from Sweden recently messaged me on Instagram. They liked to follow my stories and what I get up to, so they thought to ask me for recommendations on things to see and do that would be suitable for children. Their little ones were aged 3 and 6 and loved food, markets, vintage and antiques. While London is famous for plenty of places — from the London Eye to Madame Tussauds to Kew Gardens to the London Dungeon to the London Observatory and the Science Museum — I got to thinking about some lesser known attractions which are just as kid-friendly, and even more special. Here are some of the very best I came up with.
MEXICAN GENIUSES - A FRIDA & DIEGO IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE
Catch this exhibition for a limited time in Canada Water. It’s an immersive experience centering two of the greatest Mexican artists ever: Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. The exhibit showcases their work digitally, to enhance your experience of them. This is a great way to introduce kids to a little art. After that, why not head over to the nearby ping-pong tables in Canary Wharf, which are open to anyone and are lovely and colourful to add an extra dimension to the whole experience.
The Horniman Museum is a treasure trove of activities and exhibitions for families. There are always lots of different shows on — at time of writing, there’s a “Flower Power Family Rave,” and a “Cats and Dogs” exhibit, among other things. Another huge attraction is the Butterfly House, which is exactly what it sounds like: a tropical indoor garden filled with beautiful winged insects free-flying about. Children will love it.
A farm? In the city? “What is this madness?” I hear you ask. This farm bang-smack in the middle of Hackney features farmyard animals that children will love to meet, as well as crops, a café and classes to learn all about the world of farming. If you’re there on a Sunday, you’re going to love the buzz of nearby Columbia Road Flower Market, and even if it’s not a Sunday there are plenty of artisanal and independent shops, boutiques and eateries to mooch in in the area. A perfect weekend outing.
KidZania is an activity centre based in the Westfield in White City. It’s an “interactive indoor city” where children aged 4 to 14 can role play a selection of career paths from airline pilot to doctor, and from fashion designer to TV presenter. A great one to show kids all the different possibilities they can explore.
In Crystal Palace Park, there are a number of statues representing dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures, arranged to look like they’re in the wild. Children will love to play “Jurassic Park” here, and they might learn a thing or two, as well. While you’re there, check out the retro furniture shops on Church Road and Crystal Palace Antiques & Mid Century Modern Emporium.
THE LINE AT QUEEN ELIZABETH OLYMPIC PARK
The Line is a public art walk, which is exactly what it sounds like: a walking route featuring lots of art to see in the wild, between Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and The O2. It’s really quite magical to see in person.
The Golden Hinde is a “full scale reconstruction of the first English ship to sail around the world,” where you will sail through a world of history. While you’re in the area, head to Turbine Hall at Tate Modern, where you will see a rotation of impressive art installations, often for free. From here, take a walk along the South Bank, where there are plenty of activities and festivities going on all year round (there’s even a skate park and beach!), and don’t forget the famous Borough Market for a taste of London’s exciting street food scene.
No, raves aren’t just for your uni-aged niece. This is a mini-festival for the whole family that’s as wholesome as it is enjoyable. There’s live music from DJs, crafting areas, cakes and other delicious food, free glow sticks and transfer tattoos and much more that will delight you and your little ones equally. You can see their full range of events on this page.
Hackney’s West Reservoir Centre features kayaking and sailing courses for every age group. Your kids can also join a Youth Club there to try their hand at watersports. If all of this isn’t your family’s jam, a walk around the reservoir is actually really lovely, and there’s an eco-friendly café overlooking the water that’s great to grab a hot drink or a bite to eat. After that, head over to nearby Clissold Park to check out the goats, deer and birds there.
A quintessentially London thing to do. Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s touristy for a reason. In the heart of Covent Garden, the Transport Museum takes you through an interactive journey to learn about all things Tube and double-decker. My godsons absolutely love it, and I know they’d want me to include it in this guide!