Fun summer holiday activities for kids in London 2026

See London from two perspectives with a trip on the London Eye followed by a sightseeing cruise along the river Thames.

We think this is one of the best experiences for first-time visitors to London, combining two iconic attractions in one memorable day out. Start your adventure in one of the London Eye's glass pods and enjoy spectacular 360-degree views of the capital, spotting famous landmarks including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and St Paul's Cathedral from above.

Next, take to the water on a relaxing Thames river cruise and see the city from a completely different angle. Along the way, you'll pass some of London's most recognisable sights while enjoying live commentary packed with fascinating facts and stories. It's a fantastic way to introduce children to the city and there's plenty of opportunity for family photos along the route.

Best for: First-time visitors, families and anyone wanting to tick off London's most famous landmarks in a single trip.
Good to know: The combination ticket can save both time and money compared with booking separately. If you're visiting during the school holidays, we recommend booking ahead, particularly for afternoon timeslots. 

Get up close with more than 700 animal species at London Zoo, one of the world's oldest scientific zoos. From Asiatic lions and Sumatran tigers to playful penguins and curious meerkats, there's plenty to discover as you explore the zoo's spacious exhibits and immersive habitats.

One of our favourite ways to experience the zoo is by joining one of the daily keeper talks. These fascinating sessions offer a chance to learn more about the animals, their habitats and the conservation work helping to protect endangered species around the world.

If your children can't get enough of animals, look out for special experiences such as Junior Keeper for a Day, where young animal enthusiasts can go behind the scenes. For an even more memorable adventure, families can spend the night at London Zoo Lodges and wake up just moments from some of the world's most incredible wildlife.

Best for: Families with animal-loving children, aspiring zoologists and anyone looking for a full day out in Regent's Park.
Good to know: London Zoo sits within Regent's Park, making it easy to combine your visit with a playground stop, picnic or stroll through one of London's most beautiful green spaces. 

Play pirate for the day or become a fearless captain of the seas as you explore the historic Cutty Sark in Greenwich. Once one of the fastest tea clippers in the world, this beautifully preserved ship invites families to step aboard and discover what life was like for sailors travelling across the globe.

During the school summer holidays, the Cutty Sark hosts a programme of family-friendly activities, including interactive storytelling sessions, creative workshops and performances from costumed historical characters. These hands-on experiences help bring the ship's fascinating history to life and are a great way to keep younger visitors engaged.

For families seeking an extra adventure, the Cutty Sark Rig Climb experience offers the chance to scale the ship's famous masts. After clipping in, you'll climb high above the deck and be rewarded with spectacular views across Greenwich and the London skyline.

Best for: Adventurous children and young history enthusiasts.
Good to know: The Cutty Sark is just a short walk from the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich Park and the Royal Observatory. The Rig Climb if for kids aged 8 and above. 

If you've ever wondered how royalty lives, summer is your chance to step inside one of the world's most famous residences. Open to visitors for a limited period each year, Buckingham Palace offers a rare opportunity to explore the magnificent State Rooms used by the Royal Family for official ceremonies and events.

As you wander through the palace, you'll discover glittering chandeliers, grand staircases, priceless works of art and treasures from the Royal Collection. We particularly recommend making use of the audio guide which shares fascinating stories about royal traditions and life behind the gates.

We'd suggest pairing your visit with a trip to the nearby Royal Mews, where families can see the historic royal carriages, meet the Windsor Greys and learn more about the horses that play an important role in royal ceremonies. It's a fantastic addition to a royal-themed day out.

Best for: Families interested in British history, royal fans and first-time visitors looking to experience one of London's most iconic landmarks.
Good to know: Buckingham Palace is only open to visitors during the summer months. We recommend booking well in advance, particularly during school holidays.

Leave behind the bustle of central London and step into the magical world of Harry Potter at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. Home to the original sets, props and costumes used throughout the beloved film series, it's a spellbinding day out for witches, wizards and Muggles alike.

Families can easily lose hours exploring the incredible sets, from Dumbledore's office and the Great Hall to the Forbidden Forest and Diagon Alley. One of our favourite areas is the Weasleys' Burrow, where enchanted dishes wash themselves.

Throughout the year, the studio also hosts special themed takeovers and exhibitions. In summer 2026, visitors can celebrate the 25th anniversary of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone with the new Secrets of Sound Effects feature, exploring how some of the franchise's most iconic sounds were created.

Best for: Harry Potter fans and film lovers
Good to know: The studio is located just outside London and can be reached via a dedicated shuttle bus from Watford Junction station. Tickets regularly sell out weeks in advance during school holidays, so it's worth booking as early as possible.  

Combining high-speed thrills with fascinating commentary, this unique Thames Rockets speedboat tour is one of the most exciting ways to see London's riverside landmarks.

As you make your way along the river, your professional actor-comedian guide shares interesting facts, local stories and plenty of laughs along the way. Once the boat reaches the designated high-speed zone, the experience shifts up a gear. The music starts pumping, the throttle opens and you'll twist and turn your way along the Thames at high speed. Don't be surprised if the crew encourages everyone to throw their hands in the air and enjoy the ride.

You might step off the boat feeling a little windswept, but in our experience, children usually leave grinning from ear to ear.

Best for: Families with older children, thrill-seekers and adventurous sightseeing
Good to know: Dress for the weather, especially on cooler days. Complimentary ponchos, blankets and life jackets are available. Arrive a little early to allow time for the safety briefing. 

Home to the world's most diverse collection of living plants, Kew Gardens invites families to become nature explorers for the day. Packed with beautiful landscapes, rare plants and family-friendly activities, its easy to spend a whole day outdoors.

One of our favourite spots is the iconic Palm House, where you'll step into a lush tropical rainforest filled with exotic plants from around the world. The giant lily pads in the nearby Waterlily House are particularly impressive, while the Treetop Walkway offers spectacular bird's-eye views across the gardens. If you're visiting during summer, don't miss the Rose Garden – the scent is incredible.

Families should also make time for the Children's Garden, an interactive play space designed for younger visitors, located conveniently next to the Family Kitchen for snacks, drinks and well-earned ice creams. During summer 2026, the Henry Moore Family Trail provides another great way to explore, guiding children aged six to 12 around ten of the artist's most famous sculptures.

Best for: Families who love the outdoors, budding gardeners and children with plenty of energy to burn.
Good to know: Kew Gardens is much larger than many first-time visitors expect, so we recommend allowing at least half a day to explore. Comfortable shoes are essential, particularly if you're planning to tackle the Treetop Walkway and Children's Garden. 

The Horniman Museum and Gardens combines fascinating objects from around the world, hands-on family exhibits, an aquarium, an animal walk and beautiful gardens with some of south London's best skyline views. It's the sort of place where families can easily spend a whole afternoon exploring, learning and relaxing outdoors.

This summer, as part of its 125th anniversary celebrations, the museum is hosting a packed programme of family-friendly events. From the Octonauts trail to Family Craft Saturdays, there are plenty of opportunities for children to get creative while discovering more about the natural world.

We also love the updated Nature Trail, part of the museum's Nature + Love campaign. Using a free augmented reality experience, children can scan QR codes hidden throughout the gardens to spot virtual animals, complete challenges and collect digital badges as they explore. It's a brilliant way to encourage little adventurers to get outside and engage with nature. 

Best for: Curious children, budding nature lovers and affordable days out. 
Good to know: The gardens and main museum are free to enter and make a fantastic picnic spot on sunny days. Tickets for attractions can be paid for on the day. Don’t skip the alpacas and goats. Check ahead for fun family workshops. 

London is perfectly placed for family adventures, with several of the UK's biggest and best theme parks just a short journey from the capital.

For budding builders and LEGO fans, LEGOLAND Windsor is packed with imaginative rides, interactive attractions and impressive miniature worlds. Families with older children can head to Thorpe Park for some of the country's most exhilarating rollercoasters, including high-speed launches, giant drops and gravity-defying twists and turns.

Meanwhile, Chessington World of Adventures combines the excitement of a theme park with memorable animal encounters and themed lands inspired by mythical worlds and jungle adventures. During the summer months, its splash-filled water rides are also a welcome way to cool off on warmer days.

Best for: Families planning a full-day adventure, thrill-seekers and children who love rides
Good to know: School holiday dates are among the busiest times to visit, so booking tickets in advance is highly recommended. If you're looking for an indoor alternative closer to central London, Babylon Park's indoor rollercoaster is worth checking out. 

Are you the kind of family that loves getting a little competitive? Activate at The O2 is a hub of interactive challenges designed to test both your body and your brain. Work together as a team to complete tasks or go head-to-head and see who comes out on top.

The futuristic venue is made up of a series of immersive game rooms, each offering different challenges and difficulty levels. From quick-thinking puzzles to fast-paced physical games, every room feels slightly different, which helps keep the experience fresh throughout your session.

One of our favourite features is that your progress is saved to your wristband. If you decide to try another room and come back later, you'll pick up exactly where you left off. It's surprisingly addictive trying to beat your personal best, and the live leaderboard adds an extra layer of competition as you compare your scores against other players in the venue.

Best for: Competitive families, teenagers and friendship groups.
Good to know: If there is availability, you can often extend your session at a discounted rate. Lockers are provided for bags and coats, and you're free to take breaks between games – particularly useful when you need to stop for a drink and recover before the next challenge.

Step inside the immersive world of Twist Museum and discover a collection of interactive, multi-sensory illusions designed to challenge your senses and change the way you see the world. With more than 60 exhibits to explore, there are plenty of opportunities to capture hilarious family photos while experimenting with mind-bending installations.

One of the standout experiences is the 4D capture booth, where multiple cameras photograph you from every angle before transforming your image into a spinning digital hologram.

We also love the kaleidoscope installations – simply pop your head inside and watch your reflection multiply into a colourful pattern of shapes and colours. The results are often as funny as they are impressive.

Best for: Curious children, creative families and unusual photo opportunities
Good to know: Most exhibits are designed to be touched, explored and photographed, so don't be afraid to get involved. We'd recommend keeping your phone charged – you'll probably leave with far more photos than you expected. 

Channel your inner David Attenborough as you come face to face with dinosaurs at Prehistoric Planet at Lightroom. Using floor-to-ceiling projections and powerful surround sound, this immersive experience transports visitors millions of years into the past. From lush tropical landscapes and vast deserts to mysterious ocean depths, the exhibition brings prehistoric worlds to life as dinosaurs roam across the walls and floors around you.

One of the things we love most about Lightroom is its ever-changing programme of exhibitions. Previous showcases have explored the work of David Hockney and the life and music of David Bowie.

Once you've finished your journey through the prehistoric world, spend some time exploring the surrounding King's Cross neighbourhood. Granary Square's fountains are always a hit with children in summer, while nearby Coal Drops Yard offers plenty of places to grab a bite to eat.

Best for: Dinosaur enthusiasts and curious families of all ages
Good to know: You're welcome to stay and explore the space after your timed session ends. The on-site café is a great place to recharge, while the gift shop is well worth a browse before heading home. 

Step into the wonderfully wholesome world of Paddington Bear at this heartwarming immersive experience inspired by the much-loved books and films.

As you journey through a series of themed rooms, families will recognise familiar locations from Paddington's adventures while meeting some of the characters along the way.

Board a full-sized train carriage with the help of the friendly Station Master before travelling to the Brown family's home at Windsor Gardens. From there, you'll be whisked away to Peru as preparations get underway for the Marmalade Day Festival.

The experience culminates in a lively festival featuring Paddington and his friends, where families can dance, play games and enjoy a selection of themed treats. Naturally, marmalade sandwiches make an appearance too!

Best for: Younger children, Paddington fans and families looking for a gentle interactive experience in central London.
Good to know: Children under two years old can visit for free. The attraction is located close to the London Eye, SEA LIFE London Aquarium and the South Bank, making it easy to combine with other family-friendly attractions nearby. 

If your family loves sport and keeping active, few places in London can compete with Lee Valley and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Built around the legacy of the London 2012 Olympic Games, this part of east London is packed with opportunities to try everything from white water rafting to swimming, cycling and tennis.

Head to Lee Valley White Water Centre to tackle thrilling rafting experiences on the Olympic course or enjoy gentler paddles on calmer waters. The wider Lee Valley area also offers walking trails, waterside picnic spots and plenty of green space for a more relaxed day outdoors.

Over at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, you'll find some of London's most impressive sporting venues. Take a dip in the London Aquatics Centre, watch a sporting event at the Copper Box Arena or book a session at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre.

What we love most is the sheer variety. Whether you're trying a new sport, cheering from the sidelines or simply enjoying the atmosphere of a former Olympic host venue, there's something here for every level of energy and ability.

Best for: Active families, sporty teenagers and anyone inspired by the Olympic Games.
Good to know: Many activities need to be booked in advance, particularly during school holidays. Westfield Stratford City - combine your visit with lunch, shopping or a cinema trip. 

There are plenty of West End shows that have been entertaining audiences for decades – and for good reason. If you're visiting London during the summer holidays, seeing one of the capital's most beloved musicals is a fantastic way to experience the magic of the theatre district.

Disney's The Lion King remains one of the city's most spectacular productions, using breathtaking puppetry, vibrant costumes and unforgettable music to bring the African savannah to life on stage. Families with older children may enjoy Wicked, which tells the untold story of the witches of Oz through powerful performances, dazzling effects and some of musical theatre's most iconic songs.

For younger audiences, Matilda The Musical continues to delight generations with its witty storytelling, energetic choreography and memorable score. Whichever show you choose, there's something special about stepping into a historic West End theatre and experiencing a live performance together as a family.

Best for: Families visiting London’s West End for the first time.
Good to know: Popular summer performances can sell out weeks in advance, particularly during school holidays. If you have your heart set on a specific show, it's worth booking tickets before your trip. 

Go beyond the beloved books and films at Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. The story picks up 19 years after Harry, Ron and Hermione saved the wizarding world, following Harry and his son Albus Severus Potter as they navigate family expectations, friendship and a new magical adventure.

What makes this production truly special is its spectacular stagecraft. Expect astonishing illusions, jaw-dropping special effects and magical moments that leave audiences wondering how they were achieved.

Summer 2026 is also the last chance to see the production in its current two-part format before it evolves into a new single-show version from October 2026.

Best for: Harry Potter fans and families with older children.
Good to know: Performances often include moments beyond the stage, so keep an eye on the entire auditorium. Before the show, head to nearby Covent Garden or Seven Dials for a bite to eat. 

Theatregoers can enjoy a truly unique experience at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, from incredible productions to exciting festivals.

Throughout the summer, visitors can enjoy a number of family-friendly events, each featuring a unique programme with dedicated days for entertainment, dance and comedy. Look out for Family Takeover Days, where you can choose a morning or afternoon session and enjoy events such as Harp in the Park and Bach to Baby family concerts.

There's something rather magical about enjoying live performances surrounded by the greenery of Regent's Park, making it a great addition to a summer day out in London. We'd suggest taking little ones to see Anansi the Spider, where classic folk tales are brought to life through music, storytelling and puppetry.

Best for: Families and fans of theatre.
Good to know: Tickets for family events are separate to theatre show tickets. Under 4s are welcome, but everyone aged two and over requires their own ticket, and events go ahead rain or shine.

Be charmed by the magic and mayhem of Judith Kerr's much-loved tale, The Tiger Who Came to Tea, as the Olivier Award-nominated production returns to the West End this summer.

Follow the adventures of Sophie and her unexpected house guest – a curious tiger who arrives unannounced for tea and quickly causes chaos. The stage adaptation brings the classic children's story to life with colourful sets, memorable songs and plenty of audience interaction.

You can bet that the lively musical numbers and playful storytelling will have little ones captivated from start to finish.

Best for: Younger children and families introducing little ones to theatre.
Good to know: Babies in arms under 18 months can attend without a ticket when seated on an adult's lap. Buggies can be left in the theatre cloakroom from 30 minutes before the performance, subject to available space.

Get a history lesson you won't forget in a hurry at Horrible Histories Live: Barmy Britain. This memorable show is packed with gruesome facts, chaotic characters from Britain's past and all the weird and wonderful moments you definitely didn't learn about in school.

From Queen Victoria and Guy Fawkes to William the Conqueror, audiences will encounter some of the larger-than-life figures behind the country's most shocking and surprising moments.

Expect lots of twists and turns, catchy songs and laugh-out-loud moments throughout. Quick costume changes, clever storytelling and multi-role performances are what make this show such a hit with families.

Best for: History lovers and families looking for an educational day out with a fun twist.
Good to know: Even reluctant history fans tend to get swept up in the silliness. The fast-paced format and 70-minute running time make it a great option for younger audiences – the show is recommended for ages five and above.

Impress your teens with a thrilling climb at Up at The O2 in Greenwich. Scale the famous entertainment venue while donning the attraction's iconic blue climbing suits (optional), before enjoying sweeping views of the city from the summit.

With three different climb options available, you can easily fit the experience into your day out. Daytime climbs are a fantastic way to spot London's landmarks, with views stretching up to 15 miles on a clear day. For something a little more atmospheric, opt for a sunset climb and watch the skyline transform into shades of orange and pink as the sun dips below the horizon.

We think you'll earn some serious cool parent points on a sunset tour – and it's the perfect opportunity for a memorable family selfie.

Best for: Active families, adventurous teens and special occasions.
Good to know: Check the clothing requirements before your visit, as a full-body harness is worn throughout the climb. Family tickets are available for groups consisting of either one adult and three children or two adults and two children. 

Feel the need for speed at F1 Drive London, an electric go-karting experience inspired by the world of Formula 1. The 500m circuit features 17 technical turns, two DRS zones and a long start-finish straight, giving drivers plenty of opportunities to overtake friends and family.

Located beneath Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the experience combines fast-paced racing with F1-inspired technology and live race statistics. Whether you're chasing the fastest lap or battling it out for bragging rights, it's a great way to add some friendly competition to your day out.

There's plenty more to do while you're here too. Football fans can book a stadium tour, while thrill-seekers can take on the Dare Skywalk for incredible views across north London.

Best for: Competitive teens, Formula 1 fans and families who love a challenge.
Good to know: Drivers must meet minimum height requirements, so check ahead before booking. The live timing system tracks every lap, making it easy to see who's really earned the right to brag on the journey home.

What better way to explore London's food scene than on a treasure hunt that introduces you to some delicious hidden gems?

On a day out with Gourmaze, teens will enjoy cracking clues and solving puzzles before unlocking their next stop. Each answer gets them one step closer to their prize – more food. It's a fun way to explore the city while adding a bit of team bonding along the way.

If you're visiting London and want to try classic British dishes, we'd recommend Shadows of the Crown, which uncovers hidden stories and secrets along the Thames. We also love Talisman Treats, taking you from Soho's tucked-away corners to some of the area's liveliest streets. Without giving away any spoilers, you'll leave feeling both accomplished and very well fed.

Best for: Food-loving families, older children and teens who enjoy puzzles.
Good to know: Selected dishes are included in the ticket price and dietary requirements should be shared when booking. You're welcome to purchase extra food and drink along the way, but keep an eye on the clock as some treasure hunts are time-limited. 

Set directly beneath Waterloo Station, Leake Street Arches is a living gallery that combines street art, restaurants, activity bars and cultural events. Teens will have fun spotting the ever-changing artwork, and very often you'll see artists creating new pieces in real time.

One of our favourite activities here is the Graffiti Workshop, available on select dates throughout the year. Under the guidance of a professional artist, you'll learn spray-painting techniques before leaving your own mark on one of London's most famous street art locations.

The atmosphere is what makes Leake Street so special. No two visits are ever quite the same, with new artwork appearing regularly and plenty of places nearby to stop for food or a drink afterwards.

Best for: Creative minds, aspiring artists and families looking for something a little different.
Good to know: The artwork changes constantly, so every visit offers something new. Wear clothes you don't mind getting a little paint on if you're taking part in a workshop. 

The Natural History Museum is one of London's most iconic family attractions, and for good reason. Popular during the school holidays, the museum combines fascinating permanent galleries with seasonal workshops, trails and family activities that keep children of all ages entertained.

From towering dinosaurs and giant mammals to sparkling gemstones and volcanic displays, there's plenty to capture young imaginations. This summer, don't miss Visions of Nature, a mixed-reality experience that transports visitors a century into the future to explore what lies ahead for our planet.

On warmer days, we'd recommend taking a break in the museum's gardens, where families can enjoy lunch while exploring nature trails and spotting wildlife-inspired sculptures.

Best for: Curious kids, budding nature lovers and families with children of all ages.
Good to know: The museum is busiest during school holidays, so consider visiting earlier in the day. Entry is free, but some special exhibitions and experiences require a separate ticket.

Kids who love to experiment, explore and get creative will love London's Science Museum. A space for discovery, the museum is packed with interactive exhibits and fascinating objects that bring science, technology and innovation to life.

Many of the exhibitions are out of this world – no, truly. The SPACE gallery is home to impressive spacecraft, rockets and other exciting objects that tell the story of humanity's journey beyond Earth.

Unleash your inner scientist in Wonderlab, where explosive live science demonstrations and more than 50 hands-on exhibits will have kids feeling like real scientists.

Power Up is another brilliant attraction, immersing visitors in a gaming experience featuring some of the best games and consoles from the last 50 years. This experience is paid, but it can easily keep older children and teenagers entertained for hours.

Best for: Budding scientists, gamers and curious kids who love hands-on learning.
Good to know: Entry to the museum is free, but Wonderlab and Power Up require a separate ticket. We'd recommend booking these in advance during school holidays.

One of our favourite places to spend time with kids during the summer holidays, the London Transport Museum is one of London's most unique attractions and will have them entertained from the moment they step inside.

Kids can come face to face with full-size buses and trains, hopping aboard and grabbing the wheel to become the driver for the day. The interactive displays throughout the museum do a brilliant job of bringing London's transport history to life.

All Aboard is particularly good for younger children, with soft play areas, mini vehicles and hands-on activities. Bigger kids will enjoy exploring the historic vehicles, photography opportunities and colourful poster exhibitions that showcase how London has changed through the years.

Best for: Train enthusiasts, transport-loving kids and families looking for a rainy-day activity.
Good to know: Children visit free with a paying adult. The museum is located in the heart of Covent Garden, making it easy to combine with street performers, shops and family-friendly restaurants nearby. The gift shop is one of London’s best – be sure to pick up a souvenir here.

Covent Garden is a hub of shopping, dining and entertainment, making it a fantastic place to spend a few hours with the family. From street performers and seasonal pop-ups to attractions such as Covent Garden Market, Bat & Ball and SPYGAMES, there's always something going on.

This summer, the iconic Piazza will host screenings of some of the city's biggest events, from Wimbledon and West End Live to select World Cup matches shown at participating bars and restaurants.

During the summer holidays, the Piazza transforms into a giant playground with a packed programme of family-friendly events and experiences running throughout the day and into the evening.

Best for: Families looking for entertainment, food and activities all in one place.
Good to know: The famous street performers usually gather in the Piazza and are often a highlight for younger visitors. Arrive early if you'd like a good viewing spot during busy summer weekends.

Wembley Park is packed with exciting green spaces and family-friendly events, making it a great destination for a free day out.

The neighbourhood offers plenty to explore, from the seven-acre Union Park to the Wembley Park Art Trail, featuring works by more than 28 artists. It's an easy area to wander, with public art, open spaces and activities around almost every corner.

Head to Summer Rocks 2026 for a free season of music, art, food, sport and family fun all in one place. Expect live music, pop-up events, outdoor activities and plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat. It's the perfect excuse to turn a trip to Wembley Park into a full day out.

Best for: Families looking for free events, outdoor spaces and seasonal entertainment.
Good to know: Keep an eye on the Wembley Park events calendar before your visit, as many of the free activities and performances change throughout the summer. 

Tick off two of England's most famous destinations in one day on a Stonehenge and Bath tour. Travelling through the beautiful English countryside, you'll begin the day in the city of Bath, known for its elegant Georgian architecture and fascinating Roman heritage. After an insightful walking tour, take in landmarks including Bath Abbey and the iconic Pulteney Bridge.

The Roman Baths are a particular highlight, especially for families. The excellent audio guide brings the site to life with fascinating facts and plenty of humour, helping younger visitors imagine what life was like when Romans walked these streets almost 2,000 years ago.

Next up is Stonehenge, the world-famous prehistoric monument that has puzzled historians for centuries. As well as seeing the impressive stone circle up close, families can explore the recreated Neolithic village and discover how people may have lived when Stonehenge was first built.

Best for: Families who enjoy history, archaeology and discovering some of England's most famous landmarks.
Good to know: This is a long but rewarding day out, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Entry tickets can be added as an option.

Budding Knights and history buffs assemble at the magnificent Warwick Castle! More than 1,000 years of heritage awaits at this impressive site, where medieval England comes alive through interactive attractions, live entertainment and spectacular surroundings.

With plenty to do for kids, families can get lost in the Horrible Histories Maze, discover the castle's fascinating interiors, explore the grounds and watch impressive live bird displays soaring overhead. Don't miss The Kingmaker, a walk-through experience that takes you through Earl of Warwick Richard Neville’s fascinating process of preparing for battle.

Zog, the castle's resident dragon, is also on hand to entertain younger visitors with live shows, music and storytelling. It's one of the many family-friendly experiences that help bring the castle to life throughout the year.

Best for: Families who love history, castles and immersive adventures.
Good to know: There's far more to see than just the castle itself, so we'd recommend allowing a full day to explore the grounds, attractions and live shows.

Swap the city for the sweeping coastline of Sussex in Brighton. One of England's most popular seaside resorts, it's a hub of creativity and culture and is within easy reach of London for a summer day by the water.

Grab a seat on Volk's Electric Railway and take in the views before heading to Brighton Palace Pier for arcade games, fairground rides and hot sugary doughnuts. It's a classic British seaside experience that never gets old.

We also love exploring The Lanes, a maze of characterful alleyways packed with independent shops, quirky cafés and historic pubs. It's the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs, alongside traditional seaside favourites such as sticks of rock.

Best for: Families looking for a classic British seaside day out.
Good to know: The beach is made up of pebbles rather than sand, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Brighton's seafront can get particularly busy on sunny weekends, so an early start is worth it.

Boasting some of the UK's most beautiful architecture, Oxford is well worth a day trip from London. Wander through the historic grounds of the University of Oxford, admire the famous colleges or climb Oxford Castle and Prison for fantastic views across the city's rooftops and dreaming spires.

There are plenty of family-friendly attractions to enjoy too. Explore the fascinating Pitt Rivers Museum, discover the Oxford University Museum of Natural History or spend a sunny afternoon at the Oxford Botanic Garden and Arboretum.

For a quintessential Oxford experience, take to the river and try your hand at punting or hop aboard a sightseeing cruise. It's one of the most relaxing ways to see the city and a great way to round off a day of exploring.

Best for: Families who enjoy history, culture and exploring at a slower pace.
Good to know: Many of Oxford's colleges charge a small admission fee and some have seasonal opening hours, so it's worth checking ahead if there's a particular one you'd like to visit.

A day trip to York promises ancient treasures, quaint streets and fascinating history around every corner. From the moment you arrive, it's easy to see why this beautiful city is one of England's most popular historic destinations.

If you've ever wanted a window into England's past, wandering the city will transport you there in minutes. Iconic landmarks such as the magnificent York Minster and the elegant Fairfax House offer a glimpse into centuries of history, while the cobbled streets of The Shambles feel straight out of a storybook.

Some of the world's most formidable warriors once called York home, and families can discover their story at the JORVIK Viking Centre. Here you'll journey through reconstructed Viking-age streets and uncover thousands of fascinating artefacts. Kids will also love the Ghost Bus Tour and perhaps even more, York's Chocolate Story, where there's plenty to satisfy a sweet tooth.

Best for: Families who love history, Vikings and hands-on museums.
Good to know: York is very walkable, with many of the main attractions located within the historic city walls. We'd recommend comfortable shoes if you're planning to explore the city on foot.