Things to do during school summer holidays in London

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Make the school summer holidays memorable in 2025 with London’s award-winning theatre shows, kid-friendly museums and thrilling attractions. 

There are lots of brilliant things to do in London during the kids’ school summer holidays. Whether you’ve got little ones or teenagers to keep entertained, we’ve rounded up summer holiday activities for all ages to enjoy. 

Be sure to download the Visit London App to unlock incredible offers and on-the-go inspiration. It’s worth noting that some attractions might require booking in advance, even if entry is free. Save money and enjoy hassle-free entry to more than 100 top landmarks with The London Pass

When are the next summer school holidays in London? 

The school summer holidays in London are from Wednesday 23 July until Friday 29 August 2025. School holiday dates may vary around the UK.

Summer activities for kids in London

During the school summer holidays, the city's top attractions launch exciting programmes of activities for kids of all ages. But these are not just for the young ones – summer holiday days outings in London offer fun for the whole family.

From outdoor events at London's top parks to summer pop-ups at famous London landmarks, there are plenty of action-packed things to do this summer in the capital.

Summer school holiday activities for young children

A young girl steers the wheel of the Cutty Sark ship in Greenwich London.

    1. Explore the marine world at SEA LIFE London Aquarium: See the UK’s largest living coral reef and discover hundreds of aquatic species including sharks, jellyfish and penguins. 
    2. Hang out with Shrek and friends at Shrek's Adventure! London: Meet your favourite characters, enjoy a live show and take a wild ride on a 4D adventure. 
    3. Climb aboard the Cutty Sark: Meet Captain Woodget and ship’s cook James Robsen, and learn the incredible history of the historic tea clipper.  
    4. Discover transport through the ages at the London Transport Museum: Trace the evolution of London’s transport system through groundbreaking designs and iconic vehicles.  
    5. Experience the magic of The Paddington Bear Experience: Meet beloved characters from the books and the films, and explore props and sets from the films. 
    6. Be inspired by the incredible exhibitions and collections at the Science Museum: Spot space rockets and steam engines, and check out the new Future of Food exhibition for a fascinating look at how we grow and eat food.
    7. Enjoy an action-packed adventure at the National Maritime Museum: Step inside four engaging galleries to find showstopping artworks, naval uniforms and intricate ship models telling the story of Britain at sea. 
    8. Roam around the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground: Let the little ones climb aboard the giant wooden pirate ship and explore sensory trails in the heart of Hyde Park. 
    9. Don’t miss a chance to ride the miniature railway at Brockwell Park: Board the train every Sunday or wander the park’s stunning walled flower garden.
    10. Visit Southbank Centre for a vibrant lineup of summer events: Expect inspiring talks, hands-on workshops and showstopping music and dance performances.  

    Find budget-friendly family summer activities with our guide to free things to do in London with kids. Discover more things to do with children in London this summer.

Things to do with teenagers in London

Family of four take a selfie on top of the O2 stadium in london.

    1. Meet your favourite superheroes at Madame Tussauds London: Snap a selfie with royalty, sporting legends and iconic musicians at this world-famous wax museum. 
    2. Embrace your inner adrenaline junkie with Up The O2Climb London’s famous arena and reward yourself with sweeping skyline views at the summit. 
    3. Uncover London’s chilling history at The London Dungeon: Brace yourself for the Drop Dead: Drop Ride and spine-tingling tales of Sweeney Todd and Jack the Ripper. 
    4. Challenge the family to a game of Monopoly Lifesized: Get competitive in exhilarating escape room-style challenges, before playing the 80-minute life-sized board game. 
    5. See the city sparkle on a London by Night bus tour: Take in dazzling views of illuminated landmarks on this 90-minute tour, complete with fascinating commentary from an onboard guide. 
    6. Sharpen up on your Roman history at London Mithraeum and the Roman Amphitheatre: Descend below street level to explore the ancient temple of Mithras and the remains of London’s Roman arena.  
    7. Explore the Churchill War Rooms: Uncover the former Prime Minister’s hidden wartime bunker and the once top-secret room where the War Cabinet made critical decisions. 
    8. Visit the Imperial War Museum London: Explore a powerful collection of wartime artifacts and take part in the museum’s summer programme.
    9. See London from up above on the IFS Cloud Cable Car: Soar to new heights and relish 360-views of the capital. 
    10. Explore London's Chinatown: Walk beneath the striking red lanterns before tucking into handcrafted delicacies.

For more school holiday ideas, take a look at our guide to 101 things to do in London with teens.

Family shows in London during the summer holidays

 A Midsummer Nights Dream at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre Auditorium.

Keep the little ones entertained with more family theatre shows this summer.

Outdoor adventures for the family

A young girl in a green top and blue dungarees smells bright pink flowers at the Horniman Museum in London.

Discover more outdoor spaces this summer. 

Top summer experiences

Two people cheers drinks aboard a valentines themed afternoon tea bus tour

    1. Whizz down the Thames on a Thames Rockets speedboat tour: Or opt for a scenic river cruise, perfect for spotting some of the London’s most iconic landmarks.
    2. Tick off London's top historic locations: Visit Westminster Abbey and St Paul's Cathedral to explore the city’s storied history and stunning architecture.  
    3. Discover Royal London: Step inside the lavish State Rooms at Buckingham Palace, wander the grounds of Kensington Palace, and don’t miss Changing the Guard
    4. Enjoy an afternoon tea tour: Savour tea and sweet treats as you glide past London’s top sights on a vintage tea bus.  
    5. Feel your legs shake as you walk the Tower Bridge Walkway: Learn the history of the iconic Tower Bridge and walk across the high-level glass floor with views over the River Thames. 
    6. Cool down with a dip in a pool or lido: Explore our guide to the best swimming and boating spots in London, including heated lidos and Olympic-sized pools. 
    7. Take on one of London's immersive experiences: Battle aliens, solve a chilling murder mystery or step into another world with interactive adventures across the capital. 
    8. Explore the city with an expert guide on a themed walking tour: Follow in the footsteps of legendary musicians and visit film locations featured in award-winning movies. 
    9. See London’s landmarks on a hop-on hop-off bus tour: Cruise through the city on an open-top bus, with more than 60 must-see locations.
    10. Celebrate London’s Caribbean community at Notting Hill Carnival: The world-famous parade features dazzling floats and costumes, exceptional food and drink, and live music from top performers. 23-25 Aug  

Uncover more unique experiences in London. 

Day trips from London

Children stand in a line learning how to use a sword at Warwick Castle.

    1. Combine Stonehenge and Bath on a whistle-stop day tour: Explore the ancient mystery of Stonehenge, before uncovering the historic sights of Bath including the Roman Baths and Pulteney Bridge. 
    2. Discover the enchanting city of Oxford: Wander through the 400-year-old Oxford Botanic Gardens & Arboretum and enjoy a picnic lunch while punting along the Thames. 
    3. See medieval England brought to life at Warwick Castle: Experience thrilling displays and dive into the rich history of one of England’s oldest towns. 
    4. Take a trip to the seaside town of Brighton: Stroll along the pier, shop for vintage and antiques, and tuck into the delicious food and drink scene.  
    5. Visit the charming city of York: Meet fearsome Vikings, cruise along the river and wander its cobbled streets. 
    6. Escape to the beautiful British countryside: Plan a staycation to idyllic spots such as the Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon.
    7. Tick off castles, cathedrals, the white cliffs of Dover and more on a Leeds, Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich tour: Explore some of the UK’s most historic destinations with an expert guide. 

Check out more amazing day trips from London to enjoy this summer.

Family hotels and restaurants in London

A rainforest themed cafe with plants and animals in london.

    1. Find children’s menus and fun activities at London's kid-friendly restaurants: From themed restaurants to baby-friendly spots, there’s a menu to suit every family.
    2. Enjoy great access to top London attractions with our pick of where to stay in London with kids: The InterContinental London O2 often has fantastic family deals during the summer months.
    3. Enjoy the luxury and flexibility of your own private space in a self-catering apartment: Relish your own living space and kitchen in a spacious apartment in the city.
    4. Make use of fun facilities, special activities, cots and babysitting services at these top London family hotels: Choose from affordable options, quirky boutique hotels and luxury rooms tailored for families.
    5. Sample a different dish every day from top street food markets: Seven Dials Market, Mercato MayfairEataly and the Southbank Centre Food Market are all great options.

For more inspiration this summer holiday, see what's on in London or check out our guide to London for kids, featuring top family attractions, experiences and the best museums for children. Be sure to download the Visit London app for on-the-go tips and unmissable offers.

Where can I take my kids on a hot day in London?

There’s plenty to do when the sun shines in London, but where are the best places to take the kids on a hot day? 

London has many wonderful parks and gardens where you can enjoy a stroll before settling down with a picnic in the sun or shade. Relax in the gardens of Hampton Court Palace, where the mushroom-like trees are sure to offer some respite from the sun, or head to Richmond Park for a bike ride through the trees along with some wildlife spotting.

The city also has many fantastic spots where you can cool off with a swim in one of London's outdoor pools or lidos. Alternatively, go for a breezy boat ride along the Thames or take to the pedalos on the lake at Alexandra Palace.

You'll also find that many of London's galleries and exhibition spaces are a great place to escape the heat, with air-conditioned rooms designed to protect the artworks.