Half term is nearly upon us! If you’re wondering how you’re going to entertain your little ones, here’s our pick of what’s on for families…
Half term in London 2025
Two Temple Place | 26 October
This grand “house of stories” is opening its doors for a special Family Day. Kids can follow interactive trails and meet characters from folklore like the Green Man and Little Red Riding Hood as they explore the building’s hidden corners. Free.
National Maritime Museum, Greenwich | 26 October – 2 November
Discover myths and legends of the sea through daily family workshops, storytelling sessions and hands-on crafts. No booking required, so it’s an easy drop-in option for curious little ones. Free.
rmg.co.uk
Kew Gardens | 17–25 October
Halloween at Kew promises an evening of eerie adventures – from Frankenstein’s laboratory to a forgotten fairground complete with creepy characters. Look out for giant spiders, ghouls and witches hidden among the autumnal grounds. Paid.
kew.org
Shakespeare’s Globe | 26 October – 1 November
Bring the Bard to life in family workshops themed around The Tempest and Macbeth. Designed for ages 5–8, these sessions use games, acting and storytelling to introduce Shakespeare’s worlds in a fun, approachable way. Paid.
shakespearesglobe.com
Science Museum | Half term week
Always a crowd-pleaser, the Science Museum is running themed trails and family-friendly activities throughout half term. Entry is free, but time slots should be booked in advance. Free.
Horniman Museum | 26–27 October & 1 November
Join The Enchanted Cinema: Monsters and Magic to help create a live soundtrack to on-screen films, led by a professional musician. Then return on 1 November for the Horniman’s vibrant Day of the Dead Family Festival. Paid.
London Canal Museum | 28 October
Hop aboard a boat trip and enjoy a day of spooky family activities at the Canal Museum’s Halloween Family Fun Day. Expect crafts, games and canal-side adventures. Paid.
Southbank Centre | 25–30 October
Join Alphabet Soup workshops in the Clore Ballroom for playful poetry, storytelling and creative fun. These free sessions are drop-in, making them a relaxed option for families exploring the South Bank. Free.
Festival of the Girl, Islington | 18–19 October
This inspiring event at the Business Design Centre helps girls try out everything from coding and filmmaking to martial arts, engineering and skateboarding. Expect workshops, talks and hands-on experiences designed to build confidence. Paid.
festivalofthegirl.com
Twist Museum, Oxford Street | Ongoing
Rainy day? Head to the immersive world of Twist, where over 60 mind-bending illusions will get kids questioning what they see. From infinity rooms to optical trickery, it’s a great pick for curious minds. Paid.
twistmuseum.com
Leighton House | 25 October
Take part in a live crime-solving adventure in Family Fun: The Mystery of the Stolen Painting. Children and adults work together in this interactive actor-led puzzle to discover who stole Frederic Leighton’s famous artwork. Paid.
rbkc.gov.uk/museums
Alexandra Palace | 31 October – 1 November
The legendary Ally Pally Fireworks are back. Expect a huge display set to music, along with a funfair, ice disco, German bier festival, ghost tours, and a fancy-dress competition for kids. Paid.
alexandrapalace.com
See more events here
