10 Things to Do in London With Kids This October Half Term 2026
Half term doesn’t need a packed itinerary. A few lovely days out, somewhere to escape the rain and a little Halloween magic can be more than enough.
From Paddington and afternoon tea to free creative workshops, here are ten London activities to have on your radar this October.
1. Step into Paddington’s world
Our pick for: A special treat for little Paddington fans
Where: County Hall, South Bank
The Paddington Bear Experience takes families through immersive sets and live performances, helping Paddington and the Brown family prepare for the Marmalade Day Festival. Allow around 70 minutes for the experience.
A useful detail for parents: buggies stay in the buggy park rather than coming through the attraction. If you are taking a baby we highly recommend taking a carrier.
2. Take afternoon tea aboard the Peppa Pig bus
Our pick for: Peppa fans who enjoy a special occasion
Where: Central London; check the departure point when booking
Afternoon tea, sightseeing and Peppa entertainment, all aboard a London bus. We tried this with our children aged two, five and seven, and each enjoyed something different — from the cakes and characters to spotting London landmarks.
Allow around 90 minutes and bear in mind that younger children need to stay seated while the bus is moving. The minimum age is two.
3. Explore SEA LIFE London
Our pick for: An indoor family outing
Where: County Hall, South Bank
If the weather turns, SEA LIFE gives you an underwater world to explore without leaving central London. Choose an entry time that works around meals and naps, and check the ticket inclusions before booking.
4. Discover London Transport Museum
Our pick for: Children fascinated by buses, trains and the Tube
Where: Covent Garden
Historic vehicles and interactive exhibits tell the story of how London moves. It’s a useful indoor option for curious children, with Covent Garden on the doorstep for lunch afterwards.
Check the admission conditions for every member of your family before buying.
5. Enjoy gentle Halloween fun at Battersea Park Children’s Zoo
Our pick for: Younger children who prefer their Halloween less frightening
Dates: 24 October–1 November
The zoo’s half-term programme includes minibeast encounters, seasonal crafts and games, and “not so spooky” storytelling. It’s aimed at primary-school children and younger.
Zoo admission applies, with additional charges for some activities.
6. Get creative at the V&A
Our pick for: A free creative outing
Where: South Kensington
Dates: 26–30 October
The V&A’s half-term programme explores invention and imaginary cities through hands-on activities and performances. There are options for different ages, including Design Baby for the youngest visitors.
Cost: Free activities; check individual session details.
7. Follow London legends at London Museum Docklands
Our pick for: Stories, imagination and free family activities
Where: Canary Wharf
Dates: Selected days over October half term
Discover spooky superstitions, meet superstitious sailors and make clay lucky charms. The programme brings London’s legends to life through storytelling and creative activities.
Cost: Free family activities; check age guidance and booking requirements for each session.
8. Discover creepy crawlies in Greenwich
Our pick for: A free museum day with outdoor play
Where: National Maritime Museum
Dates: 24 October–1 November
The museum’s half-term programme includes bug-themed crafts and storytelling, with different activities across the week. Add a visit to The Cove outdoor playground to give little ones space to run around.
Cost: Free family activities; many are drop-in.
9. Join Jet & Space Week at the RAF Museum
Our pick for: Young explorers and space enthusiasts
Where: Hendon
Dates: 24 October–1 November
The RAF Museum’s programme includes a museum mystery, planetarium shows and laser tag. Choose carefully for your child’s age: the planetarium is listed for ages six and over, and laser tag for seven and over.
Activities run on different dates and are individually ticketed.
10. Experience Halloween at Kew
Our pick for: Children who enjoy spooky surprises
Where: Kew Gardens
Dates: 16 October–1 November
After dark, Kew becomes an illuminated Halloween trail with haunting scenes, live performers and eerie encounters. We’d choose this for children who actively enjoy a fright, bearing their individual sensitivity in mind.
This is a separately ticketed event, rather than standard daytime garden admission.
Before you head out
Check your school’s holiday dates, individual activity schedules and ticket availability before making plans. For seasonal extras, make sure the ticket you choose includes the experience you want.
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