Kids' half-term in London
October half-term 2026
Half-term is when London really turns it on for families. Museums lay on special trails and workshops, theatres programme shows aimed squarely at younger audiences, and parks and outdoor venues fill their calendars with things to make, watch and do — a lot of it free.
This page collects family-friendly events and activities timed to the current or upcoming UK half-term break, so you can plan the week without the last-minute scramble. We show ages where we can, the venue and its neighbourhood, and dates and booking, and we flag the events that tend to sell out first — because half-term slots go quickly.
From dinosaur galleries and science shows to storytelling, crafts and family theatre, browse what's on below and follow any listing for full details. For the longer breaks, see our school-holidays page.
Family activities · October half-term 2026
Beauty and Destruction: Wartime London in Art - FREE
20/03/2026 - 01/11/2026
Daily 10:00-18:00
Imperial War MuseumVoyage to the Deep – Underwater Adventures
01/06/2026 - 01/11/2026
10am – 5.30pm. Quiet Times: usually afternoons in term time.
Horniman Museum & Gardens
Frequently asked questions
What can families do in London during half-term?
The list above shows kid-friendly events and activities on around the half-term break — museum workshops, family theatre, trails and outdoor events — hand-picked and updated day by day.
When is the next school half-term in London?
This page is aware of the UK school calendar and shows activities timed to the nearest half-term break. Exact dates vary slightly between boroughs and schools, so check with your own school.
Are there free half-term activities?
Many, yes — London's national museums are free and run special half-term programmes. See our free things to do page for everything on with no ticket.
Should I book half-term activities in advance?
Where booking is needed it's wise to reserve early, as popular half-term sessions fill up fast. Each listing links through to its booking page.