The half-term holidays are here, and schoolchildren up and down the country are off for up to two weeks with some private schools off for longer. As wonderful as it is to spend special time with your kids, it can be hard to keep them entertained constantly.
If you're looking for some super fun ideas for days out, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a list of some of the best places to take your children and give them an October half-term they won't forget.
How we chose the best places to go with your kids over the holidays
- Kid-friendly: We've looked for the ultimate kid-friendly activities to do over the school holidays. Whether you're looking for a one-on-one day out with your child or a big family affair, we have the most exciting options kids will love.
- Easy transport: Travelling with kids needs to be hassle-free, all of the options below have parking/and or easy travel links.
- Fun for the grown-ups: All of the options below will be enjoyable for grown-ups or grandparents.
Things to do in London
FRAMELESS
© David ParryLondon has immersive experiences aplenty, but one that is well worth a visit and fun for both adults and children alike is FRAMELESS, located by Marble Arch. If you've not been before, the experience consists of four galleries where paintings by famous artists, from Monet to Van Gogh, are projected across the walls, floor, and ceiling while emotive music plays. Little ones will have the best time gazing up and around at the colourful displays and running around in the spacious rooms, which all makes for fun photo opportunities.
The Colour Monster experience is also on during selected times in the Blank Canvas gallery, bringing to life Anna Llenas' famous picture book that helps children understand, name, and manage their emotions through colour. In the four main galleries, there will also be a playful Easter Art Trail to spot hidden details within the artworks.
For more information and tickets, visit here
Ramses and the Pharaohs' Gold Exhibition at Battersea Power Station
The School holidays are the perfect time to get out of the house and learn something new at a museum, and this Easter, Neon at the Battersea Power Station is hosting an incredibly exciting exhibition where the ancient world of Ramses II is impressively presented.
Children will love the quest the exhibit holds: 180 jaw-dropping treasures waiting to be discovered. Mini-explorers will adore the 'Pharaoh's Quest', a state-of-the-art digital scavenger hunt with hidden clues alongside an interactive adventure through time.
Visitors will be able to devour recreations of moments in history, from the Tomb of Queen Nefertari to the monumental Abu Simbel temples. A wonder for adults too, the action-packed exhibition is brimming with artefacts that are on loan from Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities.
For more information and tickets, visit here.
Children's Afternoon Tea at The May Fair Hotel
There's just something about the art of afternoon tea - it's a true quintessential activity for all ages.
With that in mind, The May Fair Hotel is offering a fabulous take on the classic British tradition, inviting grown-ups and kids to enjoy an indulgent afternoon together. Served in the establishment's sumptuous May Fair Kitchen, the tea features child-friendly sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and mouth-watering cakes and chocolate treats; a family moment to cherish.
Easy to get to, it's a two-minute walk from Green Park station, with the leafy Hyde Park just a stone's throw away. Combining the thrills of the London skyline with decadent cake could just be the best combination for adults and children.
With helpful, friendly staff who are attentive and kind, it's a dreamy day out for all.
Available Thursday to Sunday from 12:30 pm to 4 pm. For more information and to book, visit here.
The Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace
© Sam MellishIf your kids love horses, pageantry, and all things royal, then the Royal Mews is the place to be! Here, you can see real working horses, step inside a royal carriage, and even try dressing up as a coachman. The highlight is the dazzling Gold State Coach. Families can also watch the staff care for the horses and learn how royal transport really works.
Don't forget - under-5s go free, and the family pass means you can come back all year long!
For more information and tickets, visit here
The Paddington Bear Experience
© Alex BrennerEveryone loves Paddington Bear, and this immersive experience, which is located along London's lively Southbank, is ideal if your little one is a big fan. The interactive tour takes you on a trail of all of Paddington's most famous haunts: Mrs Bird's kitchen, deepest, darkest Peru and, of course, Mr Gruber's shop.
Every lasting detail is remembered and celebrated; the décor is fantastic, there are lots of activities for the kids to enjoy, and you can even meet Paddington himself and have a picture with the Marmalade-loving bear. It ends with a stroll down a real-life Windsor Gardens, which is exactly like the film and majorly nostalgic.
For more information and tickets, visit here
An unforgettable trip to the West End
© Manuel HarlanThere are too many shows on the West End to count, but Matilda is easily one of every kid's favourites. It's fun, it's entertaining, it's magical… The 2-hour 35-minute run time flies by!
If you have children who love watching the film at home, then don't hesitate to take them to the West End. It is sure to be an unforgettable trip that will have them talking about it for weeks after.
For more information and tickets, visit here
Paradox Museum London
The Paradox Museum London contains a plethora of paradoxes, yet one aspect isn't paradoxical: if you take your kids there, it is completely logical that they will have a great time. Nestled in Knightsbridge between two high-rise buildings and opposite Harrods, the museum starts as it means to go on even before you get in, with an infinity-mirrored entrance hall allowing queue-ers to enjoy their reflections many times over.
Once inside, the exhibits range from the small to the spectacular. One favourite is the Underground paradox, which allows participants to be photographed as though upside down in a Tube station. Another crowd-pleaser is the kaleidoscope paradox, where you can insert your face into a kaleidoscopic image.
All in all, if you're in London this half-term and looking for a way to kill a couple of hours, then the Paradox Museum is well worth a visit.
For more information and tickets, visit here
Babylon Park
Located in Camden, Babylon Park is an indoor theme park with two floors of fun for all ages. From the thrilling drop tower to the gentle bumper cars, there's something for everyone. The indoor rollercoaster, a highlight for many, takes riders through a starry landscape full of twists, turns, chills, and chuckles. For those who prefer virtual reality, cutting-edge VR experiences offer otherworldly adventures that feel as real as they are fantastic.
Babylon Park is the perfect place for a school holiday outing. Kids can burn off energy in a safe and exhilarating environment, while adults can unleash their inner child.
For more information and tickets, visit here
The London Transport Museum
The London Transport Museum is a must-see for inquisitive young minds. Tucked away in Covent Garden, a stone's throw from the station, it is brimming with the most fascinating installations and takes you on a real deep dive into travel throughout the years, presented interestingly and engagingly.
There are huge double-decker buses to climb aboard, old-style tube carriages to experience, plus two dedicated play zones for the under-fives.
As with many other London museums and attractions, your ticket is instantly converted into an annual pass, meaning you can come back an unlimited number of times throughout the year.
For more information and tickets, visit here
ABBA Voyage
If you're looking for a concert with a difference, then ABBA Voyage is just the ticket. Fans of the Swedish band will love seeing the incredible lifelike avatars of Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad perform on stage in their very own purpose-built ABBA Arena at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London.
The pop group – famed for its hits including Dancing Queen and Mamma Mia – will have the whole family entertained and singing along. We recommend the dancefloor tickets for kids – there will be more flexibility and space to move around – while for grown-ups it may be as close to feeling like you're having a night out again.
Since it opened in 2022, over three million visitors have flocked to the East London venue, and it's easy to see why!
To book tickets, click here.
Family-Friendly hotel stays
'Bayeux Tapestry Stay Package' at The Londoner
The capital is captivated by the British Museum's latest exhibition showing the historic Bayeux Tapestry. The UK's first super-boutique hotel, The Londoner, has launched an exclusive package giving guests access to the sold-out showcase alongside an exquisite stay at the Leicester Square-based hotel.
In true historical fashion, this educational day out combined with the hotel's new 'Bayeux Tapestry Stay Package' is genius. Until 30 November, it includes two complimentary tickets to the exhibition, 15 per cent off the best available room rate and breakfast for two, plus access to The Retreat - a stunning wellness sanctuary that features a glorious swimming pool, surrounded by dreamy cabanas.
© Andrew Beasley PhotographyThe hotel's main restaurant, Whitcomb's, boasts a dedicated kids' menu alongside adult à la carte courses. A sumptuous mix of delicious Mediterranean dishes alongside meals such as fish and chips and homemade tomato pasta for choosy eaters, it's ideal for families. The activity and puzzle books supplied are a great, welcome addition loved by children (and parents who want a little rest bite).
For more information and to book, visit the website.
Pumpkin Patch Staycation at Down Hall Hotel
Just 45 minutes from central London, Down Hall is a stunning luxury establishment welcoming those looking to be fully immersed in all things spooky for half term.
The hotel's staycation is a dreamy occasion fit for all the family to enjoy. Brimming with autumnal goodness, guests can enjoy a magnificent experience whilst partaking in a plethora of seasonal activities.
Just round the corner from the hotel sits Cammas Hall. The family-friendly farm has an enormous variety of pumpkins and squash to choose from, and there are a whopping 30,000 pumpkins on display, artfully positioned for the most incredible photo opportunities. The staycation includes entry and one pumpkin per guest.
The Estate Family Room has impressive, built-in bunk beds and amenities that kids will be enthralled with - a Nintendo Switch, cosy robes and slippers, and amazing hot chocolate and Halloween-themed craft kits.
© Niall CluttonDown Hall has a picturesque, 110-acre estate that looks like an exuberant autumnal postcard. Sporty families will appreciate the tennis, badminton and padel courts, as well as the giant chess boards and a dedicated children’s playground.
The Pumpkin Patch Staycation is bookable between 21-31 October. To book, visit the website, here.
The 'Science Family Suite' at The Ampersand Hotel
Themed hotel rooms can have a certain gimmicky connotation surrounding them, often designed in bold, zany colours accompanied by a selection of jarring accessories. However, The Ampersand Hotel in South Kensington totally quashes this notion, housing the most fabulous child-friendly hotel room that's aimed at kids who are entranced with the wonderful world of Space.
© Amy MurrellThe 'Science Family Suite' is both stylish and enchanting. Sleeping up to four guests, this subtle, spacious room features a myriad of soothing etchings of planets on the walls, a pop-up galaxy-printed tent, a huge range of learning books and toys, as well as a roomy bunk bed in the shape of a rocket blasting into orbit. Hours of fun await, and the custom-made, interactive countdown game makes for an amazing sensory activity. This celestial haven features an adjoining master bedroom for adults, which is elegant but still in keeping with the astronautic vibe - children will love the miniature connecting door that's designed with kids in mind.
© Amy MurrellThere's a chic en suite bathroom featuring a bath-and-shower combination, stocked with Malin + Goetz amenities, and a delivery of hot chocolate for younger guests, complete with marshmallows and toppings that are out of this world.
A short walk from one of London's best-loved attractions, the Science Museum, it's the perfect accompanying day out.
For more information and to book, visit here.
Things to do near London
Audley End Enchanted Railway
A magical – yet spooky – offering from one of the UK's most wonderful mini locomotive railways, Audley End has launched its Halloween Special 2026, and it's a screaming delight.
Until 1 November 2026, the enchanted railway, situated in Saffron Walden, offers a myriad of pumpkins, woodland characters, and Halloween storytelling.
Expertly designed for families with younger children, kids will adore the Pumpkin Queen and her fabulous patch, which can be seen aboard a Halloween train ride through the mystical woodlands. Spot the witches and wizards before enjoying an all-new, interactive Halloween Stage Show.
A highlight is the huge adventure playground, a wonderful haven. With guests encouraged to dress up in all their Halloween finery, it would be rude not to stop by the Pumpkin Village, where pumpkin picking, marshmallow toasting, and mini golf are available as optional extras.
For more information and tickets, visit the website.
Chessington World of Adventures
© Chris Read-Jones PhotographyOne of the closest theme parks to London (a 35-minute direct train from London Waterloo to Chessington) is Chessington World of Adventures, which is the perfect day out for families with children of any age. While older kids will get the most out of a visit (cue: Vampire roller-coaster), there's enough to keep even the smallest of adventurers entertained with the classic water rides, spinning boats, and flying elephants. Pre-schoolers will particularly enjoy the Gruffalo River Ride Adventure (a gentle but mesmerising ride down the river meeting famous characters from the book), and the Room on The Broom - A Magical Journey walkthrough, interactive experience. The tiniest adventurers under 90cm tall go free, and there's still plenty for them to get stuck into, such as the Dragon's Playhouse soft play zone, or the Jungle Rangers safari ride where they'll feel like they're driving their own truck.
What makes Chessington stand out from any other theme park is the attached zoo, Wanyama Village and Reserve, and SEA LIFE aquarium. Gorillas, giraffes, monkeys, sea lions, reindeer, and zebras are just some of the animals you can encounter in the resort. Over the school holidays until 12 April, the Easter Bunny will also be popping up at the resort, promising fun photo opportunities for the family.
And if you're wanting to extend your stay, then consider a sleepover at the Safari or Azteca Resort Hotels on site. There are standard and themed rooms aplenty, such as the Gruffalo room or the Room on the Broom room. But the newest offering are the five incredible PAW Patrol rooms (pictured) which feature a PAW Patroller-themed bunkbed, a control panel in the style of the iconic Lookout Tower complete with a periscope, and pictures of the lovable pups all splashed around the room, even the bathroom. Included in your sleepover stay is a 2pm early check in, complimentary access to the Savannah Splash Pool which is great for little ones, plus cooked breakfast and early access to the theme park the following day (9 to 10am, a full hour before general admission starts). Note, you still have to buy tickets to the theme park as part of your booking, which start from £29 per person.
This spring, the resort is also opening its dedicated PAW Patrol zone, which will include four pup-tastic rides and special meet and greets with the characters, although the exact opening date has yet to be announced.
For more information and tickets, visit here
LEGOLAND Windsor Resort
© LegolandYou'd be hard-pressed to find a child who doesn't adore Lego - and what better place to visit than the legendary LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort? A relatively short drive from London, the theme park is easily accessible and is ready to welcome families with its vast car park.
This Easter, LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort is offering specially priced short-break stays starting from £122 per person, which includes entry to the theme park, an overnight stay, plus breakfast the following morning. Other benefits include early park access and a free gift in your room for each child.
Our writers have visited the main Resort Hotel as well as the Woodland Village, so check out their reviews before you book.
If you can't make it to LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, LEGO stores across the UK are hosting free activities from 27 March to 4 April, including Easter egg hunts on shop floors, and LEGO building sessions where little ones will be taught how to make an Easter egg.
For more information and tickets, visit here
Leeds Castle
An hour from London sits the glorious Leeds Castle. An iconic establishment, it houses a 12th-century Norman castle with a surrounding moat that last belonged to Lady Baillie in the early 20th century.
© CHRIS LACEYThere's so much for children to do, from playing for hours in the wooden adventure playground to exploring the stunning maze and having a round of crazy golf. Not to be missed is the enormous sandpit - it's one of the biggest we've seen.
For more information and tickets, visit here.
Mannington
Just under two hours from London is one of Norfolk's most undiscovered gems - Mannington. The 500-year-old estate sits in the heart of the English countryside and is deliciously picturesque.
© ManningtonChildren love to be outdoors, and this stunning location is an ideal break from screens. There's an abundance of wildlife to be discovered, with easy paths to lakes, meadows and boardwalks that invite children to immerse themselves and enjoy nature at their leisure. A highlight is its natural play structure - kids can climb and clamber to their hearts' content, as well as enjoy a spot of croquet, giant Jenga, and giant Connect Four on the vast lawns.
For more information, visit here.
