London Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in London
This weekend itinerary balances iconic London family attractions with delightful free activities, perfect for families living in the city who want memorable experiences without breaking the bank. It considers the energy levels of children aged 3-12, offering a mix of active play, educational exploration, and relaxed enjoyment, with practical transport and budget tips.
Friday Evening - Kids' Early Adventure
Friday, January 2Natural History Discovery
Explore the Natural History Museum, focusing on the Dinosaurs gallery (Hintze Hall for Hope the Blue Whale) and the Earth Galleries.
It's a fantastic free museum that captivates children with its enormous dinosaur skeletons and interactive exhibits.
Perfect for curious kids aged 3-12. The dinosaur exhibits are a huge hit, and the museum's architecture is impressive. Toilets and baby changing facilities are widely available. Stroller access is good throughout. Allow around 1.5-2 hours. Entry is free, but donations are welcome. Arriving later in the afternoon can mean fewer crowds.
Easily accessible by Tube to South Kensington station (District, Circle, Piccadilly lines). The station has step-free access to street level for some exits. Limited paid street parking nearby.
Family Pizza Night
Enjoy a relaxed early dinner at Pizza Express in South Kensington.
They are known for being family-friendly, offering a 'Piccolo' menu for children with smaller portions and activities to keep them entertained.
Kids will love choosing their own pizzas, and the Piccolo menu often includes a starter, main, dessert, and a drink. High chairs are available, and staff are accustomed to families. It’s a great way to wind down after museum exploring before heading home for early bedtimes.
A short walk from the Natural History Museum. South Kensington Tube station is nearby.
Saturday - Family Adventure Day
Saturday, January 3London Zoo Visit
Spend the morning at ZSL London Zoo, home to a wide array of animals from around the world.
Kids will love seeing lions, tigers, giraffes, gorillas, and the Penguin Beach. There are daily animal talks and feeding times to enhance the experience.
Ideal for all ages, especially 3-12. Lots of walking, so bring strollers for younger children. Numerous toilets, changing facilities, and cafes on-site. The Land of the Lions and Gorilla Kingdom are always popular. Allow 3-4 hours for a good visit.
Easily accessible via Camden Town or Regent's Park Tube stations (Northern and Bakerloo lines respectively), followed by a bus or short walk. Parking is available but can be expensive; consider booking in advance.
Regent's Park Picnic
Enjoy a budget-friendly picnic lunch in Regent's Park, one of London's beautiful Royal Parks.
There are plenty of open spaces and benches to settle down, plus playgrounds for kids to burn off energy.
A perfect way to save money on lunch and enjoy the outdoors after the zoo. Pack sandwiches, snacks, and drinks. There are several playgrounds in Regent's Park, including the popular Gloucester Gate playground, offering swings, slides, and climbing frames for different age groups. Toilets are available in the park.
The zoo is located within Regent's Park, so it's a short walk from the zoo exit to a picnic spot. Public transport links to the park are excellent.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Experience the festive magic of Hyde Park Winter Wonderland.
While some attractions are ticketed, simply walking through and soaking in the atmosphere, watching the ice skaters, and enjoying the free entertainment is a memorable (and free) activity. Kids will love the festive decorations and buzzing atmosphere.
Winter Wonderland typically runs until early January, so it should be open on this date. While rides and shows are ticketed, the entry to the event itself is often free during off-peak hours. It's a great place for an afternoon stroll, enjoying the lights and sights. Be prepared for crowds, especially on a Saturday. Toilets and food stalls are abundant. Note: Check the official Winter Wonderland website closer to the date for exact 2026 opening times and free entry windows.
Marble Arch, Green Park, Hyde Park Corner, and Victoria Tube stations are all within walking distance. These are on the Central, Jubilee, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines. Some stations offer step-free access.
Early Covent Garden Charm
Head to Covent Garden for an early evening stroll.
Kids will be entertained by the street performers in the Piazza and can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Grab an early dinner at a family-friendly spot or a special treat like gelato.
Covent Garden is lively and pedestrian-friendly. The street performers are a huge hit with children, providing free entertainment. Plenty of restaurants with kids' menus are available. It's a charming way to experience London's evening buzz without staying out too late. Toilets are available in the market building.
Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line, often busy, escalator only), Leicester Square (Piccadilly, Northern), or Embankment (District, Circle, Bakerloo, Northern) Tube stations are nearby. Walking is easy in the area.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Day
Sunday, January 4Greenwich Park Views
Start your Sunday with a visit to Greenwich Park.
Enjoy stunning views of the London skyline and the River Thames from the top of the hill. Kids can run around, explore the playground, and spot deer in the wilderness enclosure.
A fantastic free outdoor space. The playground is excellent for children of all ages, and the views from the Royal Observatory are iconic. It's a great place for kids to burn off energy. Toilets are available in the park. Consider a packed brunch to enjoy on a bench with a view.
Take the DLR to Cutty Sark or Greenwich stations, or a Southeastern train to Greenwich. The Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is also a scenic and fun way to get to Greenwich Pier, a short walk from the park. Parking is limited and paid.
National Maritime Fun
Visit the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, which offers several interactive galleries and exhibits specifically designed for children, including 'AHOY!
Children's Gallery' for younger kids and displays on seafaring and exploration that engage older children.
This museum is free and highly engaging for families. 'AHOY!' is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, while older kids will enjoy the stories of famous explorers and naval history. Stroller-friendly with lifts and accessible toilets. Allow 1.5-2 hours. Look out for free family workshops that might be running.
A short walk from Greenwich Park. Easily accessible by DLR to Cutty Sark or Greenwich stations.
Riverside Wind Down
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Greenwich riverside, perhaps catching a glimpse of the Cutty Sark clipper.
Find a cozy cafe for a hot chocolate and a pastry as a final treat before heading home.
A gentle way to conclude the weekend. Kids can enjoy watching the boats on the Thames and seeing the historic Cutty Sark (exterior view is free). Numerous cafes offer snacks and warm drinks. This low-key activity allows for some reflection on the weekend's adventures and prepares everyone for the week ahead.
Located directly next to the Cutty Sark DLR station and Greenwich Pier. Easy to access from the National Maritime Museum.
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