Family Events in London
London offers a plethora of family-friendly events that cater to all ages and interests. From interactive play zones to educational museum visits, there’s something for every family to enjoy. Key family events this weekend include Peppa Pig World of Play and The Gruffalo Adventure, both of which provide immersive and engaging experiences for young children. Additionally, the Natural History Museum offers a free and educational day out, allowing families to discover the wonders of the natural world together.
1. Peppa Pig World of Play
- Venue: O2 Arena
- Date: Saturday, August 5 – Sunday, August 6
- Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tickets: £20 for adults, £15 for children
- Ticket Booking URL: Peppa Pig World of Play
Peppa Pig World of Play is an indoor play attraction designed for preschool children and their families. Kids can step into the world of Peppa Pig and explore 14 themed areas, including Peppa’s house, George’s Dinosaur Den, and the Muddy Puddles area. The venue provides a safe and engaging environment for children to enjoy imaginative play and interact with their favorite characters from the show.
2. The Gruffalo Adventure
- Venue: Chessington World of Adventures Resort
- Date: Saturday, August 5 – Sunday, August 6
- Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tickets: £35 for adults, £30 for children
- Ticket Booking URL: The Gruffalo Adventure
Join the beloved characters from Julia Donaldson’s classic story, “The Gruffalo,” at Chessington World of Adventures. Families can embark on a river ride through the deep dark wood, where they will encounter the Gruffalo and other familiar faces. The adventure combines a gentle boat ride with interactive storytelling, making it a perfect outing for young children and their parents.
Festivals Events in London
Festivals in London are vibrant and diverse, celebrating everything from music and art to culture and food. Notting Hill Carnival stands out as one of the most anticipated events, offering a colorful and lively celebration of Caribbean culture. The Southbank Centre’s Summer Festival also provides a rich program of events, including live performances, workshops, and art installations. These festivals not only showcase the city’s cultural diversity but also bring communities together in celebration.
1. Notting Hill Carnival
- Venue: Notting Hill, West London
- Date: Saturday, August 5 – Sunday, August 6
- Time: All day
- Tickets: Free entry
- Ticket Booking URL: Not required for general entry
Notting Hill Carnival is one of the largest street festivals in Europe, celebrating Caribbean culture and heritage. The event features vibrant parades, live music, dance performances, and delicious Caribbean cuisine. The carnival atmosphere is electric, with thousands of revelers taking to the streets in colorful costumes. The main parade takes place on Sunday, but the festivities continue throughout the weekend with family-friendly activities, food stalls, and live entertainment.
2. Southbank Centre’s Summer Festival
- Venue: Southbank Centre
- Date: Saturday, August 5 – Sunday, August 6
- Time: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tickets: Various events, some free and some ticketed
- Ticket Booking URL: Southbank Centre’s Summer Festival
The Southbank Centre’s Summer Festival offers a diverse program of events, including music, dance, theater, and visual arts. This weekend, visitors can enjoy outdoor concerts, family workshops, art installations, and food markets. The festival aims to celebrate creativity and community, providing something for everyone to enjoy. Highlights include a live performance by a renowned jazz band, a family-friendly circus show, and a pop-up street food market featuring international cuisines.
Fun Events in London
For those looking to have some fun, London’s entertainment scene has plenty to offer. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is a must-visit for fans of the wizarding world, providing an in-depth look at the making of the films. Meanwhile, Comedy Carnival offers a night of laughter with performances from top stand-up comedians. These events promise memorable experiences filled with joy and entertainment.
1. Harry Potter Studio Tour
- Venue: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
- Date: Saturday, August 5 – Sunday, August 6
- Time: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tickets: £49 for adults, £39 for children
- Ticket Booking URL: Harry Potter Studio Tour
Step into the magical world of Harry Potter at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Fans of the series can explore the authentic sets, props, and costumes used in the films. Highlights include the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and the Forbidden Forest. The tour also offers interactive experiences, such as riding a broomstick, learning wand combat, and discovering the secrets of special effects. It’s a must-visit for Potterheads of all ages.
2. Comedy Carnival
- Venue: Bar Rumba, 36 Shaftesbury Avenue, London W1D 7EP
- Date: Saturday, August 5
- Time: 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Tickets: £15
- Ticket Booking URL: Comedy Carnival
Laugh the night away at the Comedy Carnival, featuring a lineup of top stand-up comedians from the UK and beyond. The event promises an evening of hilarious performances, witty one-liners, and side-splitting humor. Bar Rumba provides an intimate setting for comedy fans to enjoy the show while sipping on their favorite drinks. It’s the perfect way to unwind and have a great time with friends.
Outdoor Events in London
London’s parks and open spaces provide the perfect setting for outdoor events. Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre offers a unique theatrical experience under the stars, while the Kew Gardens Summer Festival allows visitors to explore beautiful gardens and participate in various activities. These outdoor events encourage people to enjoy the natural beauty of the city while engaging in cultural and recreational activities.
1. Open-Air Theatre at Regent’s Park
- Venue: Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
- Date: Saturday, August 5 – Sunday, August 6
- Time: 7:45 PM – 10:00 PM
- Tickets: £25 – £55
- Ticket Booking URL: Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre
Enjoy a magical night under the stars at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. This weekend’s production is Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” a classic tale of love, magic, and mischief. The open-air setting provides a unique and enchanting atmosphere, making it a memorable experience for theatergoers. Bring a blanket, and some snacks, and get ready to be transported to a world of fantasy and romance.
2. Kew Gardens Summer Festival
- Venue: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
- Date: Saturday, August 5 – Sunday, August 6
- Time: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Tickets: £18 for adults, £5 for children
- Ticket Booking URL: Kew Gardens Summer Festival
The Kew Gardens Summer Festival offers a delightful mix of horticulture, art, and entertainment. Visitors can explore the stunning gardens, participate in guided tours, and enjoy live music performances. This weekend’s highlights include a floral art exhibition, a family-friendly treasure hunt, and outdoor yoga sessions. Kew Gardens provides a beautiful and relaxing environment for a day out with family and friends.
Free Events in London
For those on a budget, London has plenty of free events that offer enriching experiences without the cost. The Changing the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace is a must-see, showcasing British tradition and military precision. The Natural History Museum also offers free entry to its permanent exhibits, making it an accessible and educational outing for all. These free events provide great opportunities to explore the city and enjoy its cultural offerings.
1. Changing the Guard
- Venue: Buckingham Palace
- Date: Saturday, August 5
- Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Tickets: Free
- Ticket Booking URL: Not required
Witness the iconic Changing the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, a quintessentially British experience. The event features the precision and pageantry of the Queen’s Guard as they hand over responsibility for protecting the palace. The ceremony includes a military band performance and a march along The Mall. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
2. Natural History Museum
- Venue: Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD
- Date: Saturday, August 5 – Sunday, August 6
- Time: 10:00 AM – 5:50 PM
- Tickets: Free (some temporary exhibitions may have an entry fee)
- Ticket Booking URL: Natural History Museum
Explore the wonders of the natural world at the Natural History Museum. The museum houses a vast collection of specimens, including dinosaur skeletons, rare minerals, and ancient fossils. This weekend, visitors can enjoy free entry to the museum’s permanent exhibits, as well as special family-friendly activities and interactive displays. It’s a fantastic educational outing for children and adults alike.