Whether you’re looking for some interactive fun or a more educational experience, London is packed full of attractions to help keep the kids occupied during half term… But it shouldn’t just be about the kids! We want to make sure that all the parents out there have a great day out too! Here are six of our favourite London attractions that the whole family can enjoy this half term:
SEA LIFE London Aquarium
SEA LIFE London is one of the largest aquariums in Europe, with more than 7,000 marine animals and sea creatures to discover.
Encounter sharks and sea turtles, wonder at the rays and marvel at the kingdoms of the coral reef! You’ll even be able to see everyone’s favourite, the playful Gentoo Penguins, as they waddle, dive and swim about at Penguin Point.
Want to experience even more? Your little ones can take part in Feeding Time Talks or Behind The Scenes Tours to get up close and personal with some of the marine life at SEA LIFE London Aquarium, and learn more about important conservation programmes from the expert guides.
Madame Tussauds
Where else can you sing with Beyoncé, walk the red carpet with Mo Salah and save the universe with the Marvel Superheroes, all in one place?
Madame Tussauds London features more than 150 incredibly lifelike wax figures, bringing to life celebrities and characters from music, movies, sport and more. Thanks to amazing artistic techniques, immersive sets, and a few special effects, the whole family can rub shoulders with stars they know and love, so make sure you’ve got the camera ready for a few selfies!
Kensington Palace
The Royal Palaces in London might not seem like the most obvious places to take kids for a day out, but as the residence of many young royals over the years, Kensington Palace has plenty to offer for everyone in the family.
The reimagined childhood rooms of Queen Victoria are a particular must-see, featuring her real furniture, clothes and toys from the 1800s, as well as replica games to interact with. Kid’s guides can also be purchased with loads of facts and activities to help keep them occupied throughout the exhibitions.
If the weather’s nice, you can take a walk through Kensington Gardens, where you’ll discover the Peter Pan Statue, the Allotment Garden, and the Diana Memorial Playground, all free for you to explore!
The London Dungeon
A trip to the London Dungeon will transport you to the ‘bad old days’ of London, where you’ll meet some of the most infamous names in the capital’s history, from Guy Fawkes to Jack the Ripper.
Over a 90-minute tour led by an amazingly frightening cast of actors, you’ll experience 10 horrible historic tales that will leave you amazed and just a little bit terrified! And for the bravest members of the family, this chilling experience will be completed with a trip on the Drop Dead: Drop Ride. Go on… we dare you!
Tower Bridge Exhibition
Tower Bridge is one of London’s most famous landmarks, but how much do you actually know about it? Take a trip up to the very top and walk the 42-metre high walkways, visit the Victorian engine rooms and learn all about the importance of this iconic bridge. You can even see the Thames from a pretty unique viewpoint thanks to a spectacular glass floor!
But that’s not all - the family-friendly ‘This Is London’ Exhibition brings to life the internationally acclaimed children’s book of the same name, showcasing the city using beautiful illustrations and playful storytelling. There’s no better way for children to see the city.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter
If there’s a Harry Potter fan in your family, or someone fascinated by the magic behind the movie industry, then the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter is the perfect way to spend a day this half term.
Tour real-life sets including The Great Hall, Dumbledore’s Office and Diagon Alley, board the Hogwarts Express and try your hand at a few spells. Kids and adults alike are guaranteed to love learning all about the special effects that went into making the eight Harry Potter films possible. And when you’ve finished the tour, you can sit down to a nice cold drink of Butterbeer!
Although this attraction isn’t in the centre of London, we’ve made it as easy as possible for you to get there, with return transportation from Victoria or Kings Cross Station included in the cost of our tickets.
There really is a London attraction for every age and interest. We hope these ideas have inspired you to head to the capital this half term and explore all the amazing attractions on offer.