Enjoy a safe and socially-distanced break in the capital this half term. Here are some activities we recommend which are suitable for all the family.
The Gruffalo Trail at Kew Gardens (17 October – 1 November)
*advance booking required*
A must-do for fans of the classic childrens book, you can be sure this activity will be brimmed with intrigue and adventure, just like the story!
When you arrive at Kew, you will be given a trail pack which contains clues for you to follow in order to find the Gruffalo. This wonderful family-friendly pursuit will teach your children about the secret world of plants and animals and how they interconnect. Look out for Gruffalo characters along the way!
Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross
Visit Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station – where pupils catch the Hogwarts Express! You will find a luggage trolley (loaded with cases) embedded in the wall, so it makes a wonderful photo opportunity for Harry Potter fans. This is a permanent feature at the station and is accessible every day.
Whilst you are here, do visit the Harry Potter Shop next door which is filled with the most wonderful merchandise.
Scenes in the Square, Leicester Square
In Leicester Square, London’s home of film, follow the interactive trail to find statues celebrating best-loved characters and film scenes.
The London Eye
*advance booking required*
View London’s landscape and spot its landmarks from above by taking a ride on The London Eye, a cantilevered observation wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames.
Apsley House
*advance booking required*
Just a short walk from Hertford Street you will find Apsley House, built in 1778 as the London townhouse for the Duke of Wellington. It is a spectacular example of Georgian architecture and houses one of the finest art collections in London.
Museums
*advance booking required*
Why not enjoy the museums in a quieter London this autumn? Many of our cultural attractions have reopened their doors and, with social distancing measures in place, these can now be enjoyed without the crowds.
Our family favourites include The Science Museum (where you can see Stephenson’s Rocket, Puffing Billy and the Apollo 10 command module) and the London Transport Museum (home to examples of trams, buses, trolleybuses and trains, including the first underground electric train which was introduced in 1890).
London’s Royal Parks
You will find eight royal parks in London which are all incredibly beautiful and dog-friendly. Our closest park is Hyde Park which is a fabulous space to enjoy with families and dogs. Within its 350 acres there are ornamental flower gardens, a boating lake, tennis courts, cafés and a very well-equipped playground. Dogs can be off-lead within most of the park and the cafés provide water bowls.
Photos: Apsley House (top left), Hyde Park (top right), London Transport Museum (bottom left), Scenes in the Square, Leicester Square (bottom right).