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Weekend in London

Oct 31 - Nov 2

This weekend itinerary for London families focuses on balancing free, interactive experiences with special, worthwhile ticketed attractions for children aged 3-12. We've prioritized real events happening this Halloween weekend and included practical tips for transport, dining, and making the most of your budget, ensuring a truly memorable and stress-free adventure for everyone.

London view
1

Friday Evening - Spooky Halloween Fun

Friday, October 31
1.1
4:30 PM
GBP 0 for whole family

Halloween Park Parade

Step into the 'Playful Park of Peculiar' at Holland Park for a free, non-ticketed Halloween extravaganza.

This theatrical world will feature dancing skeletons, talking frogs, glow-in-the-dark madness, and a Day of the Dead inspired Skeleton Serenade parade. Families are encouraged to come in costume and join the spooky fun. It's a fantastic way to celebrate Halloween with imaginative entertainment.

Perfect for all ages, especially 3-12. Kids will adore the costumes, characters, and parade. There are public restrooms available within Holland Park. The event is outdoors, so dress appropriately for the weather. Stroller accessible paths are generally available in the park. The event lasts approximately 2-3 hours.

Holland Park Gate, Holland Park, London W8 6LU

Easily accessible via tube to High Street Kensington (District & Circle lines) or Holland Park (Central line), followed by a short walk. Limited paid parking may be available in the surrounding streets, but public transport is highly recommended due to high demand on Halloween.

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1.2
6:30 PM
GBP 50-70 for whole family

Family Halloween Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly early dinner.

Consider a chain restaurant like Preto, known for its 'kids eat free' deals, offering a Brazilian Rodizio experience. This allows for a filling meal in a vibrant atmosphere before heading home for early bedtimes after the Halloween festivities.

Great for winding down after an exciting evening. Preto offers a buffet-style experience where kids can try various grilled meats and sides. Check their website for current 'kids eat free' promotions and terms. Good for kids who enjoy a variety of food and a lively atmosphere. High chairs usually available.

Preto Soho, 75-77 Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 6HT (or other London locations)

Soho is well-served by numerous tube stations, including Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo & Piccadilly lines) or Leicester Square (Northern & Piccadilly lines). Public transport is best. Parking in Central London is extremely limited and expensive.

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2

Saturday - Wild Wonders & West End Magic

Saturday, November 1
2.1
10:00 AM
GBP 81 for whole family

Zoo Halloween Fun

Dive into 'Boo at the Zoo' at ZSL London Zoo, offering special Halloween-themed activities including spooky animal talks, crafting sessions to make flapping bats, and exploring a fun pumpkin patch.

Don't miss the new 'ZooTown' role-play centre, perfect for kids aged 3-8 to try out being mini-zookeepers.

London Zoo is fantastic for all ages, with plenty of walking and interactive exhibits. The Halloween activities are specifically designed for young families. Public restrooms are readily available, and the zoo is stroller-friendly with accessible paths. The £10 child ticket offer for October half-term (Oct 25 - Nov 2, 2025) makes this a great value. Allow 3-4 hours for a good visit.

ZSL London Zoo, Outer Cir, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY

The nearest tube station is Camden Town (Northern line), followed by a 15-minute walk. Alternatively, take the 269 bus from Regent's Park station. Limited paid parking is available on site. Consider the National Rail 2FOR1 offer if traveling by train for adult tickets.

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2.2
1:30 PM
GBP 20-40 for family lunch

Regent's Park Picnic & Play

After a morning with the animals, head to a nearby section of Regent's Park for a relaxed picnic lunch.

The park offers vast open spaces for children to run around, as well as several well-equipped playgrounds. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the crisp autumn air and let the kids burn off some energy in a beautiful setting.

Bring your own picnic for a budget-friendly lunch, or grab sandwiches from a local shop near the zoo. The park has multiple playgrounds suitable for different age groups. Restrooms and cafes are located throughout the park. This is a great opportunity for active play and relaxation. Allow 1.5-2 hours.

Regent's Park, London, NW1 4NR (various entrances)

Easily accessible by foot from ZSL London Zoo. Various tube stations border the park, including Regent's Park (Bakerloo Line) and Great Portland Street (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan lines).

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2.3
4:30 PM
GBP 150-250+ for whole family

Paddington Musical

Treat the family to an enchanting West End performance of 'Paddington The Musical,' making its eagerly awaited debut in November 2025.

Based on Michael Bond's beloved bear from deepest darkest Peru, this promises a charming and memorable experience for all ages with vibrant storytelling and music.

Ideal for children aged 4+. The show's duration typically includes an interval, perfect for a short leg-stretch. Book tickets in advance to secure seats and potentially better prices. The Savoy Theatre has family-friendly facilities, but it's always good to check specific accessibility for strollers if needed. This is a special, higher-budget experience.

Savoy Theatre, Strand, London WC2R 0ET

The Savoy Theatre is centrally located. Nearest tube stations are Temple (District & Circle lines) or Charing Cross (Bakerloo & Northern lines, National Rail), both within walking distance. Taxis or ride-sharing services are also readily available.

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2.4
7:00 PM
GBP 40-60 for whole family

Soho Treats & Stroll

After the musical, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the lively streets of Soho.

Grab an early, casual dinner or perhaps an ice cream treat to cap off the day's adventures. Soho offers a variety of quick, kid-friendly dining options and vibrant street atmosphere.

A relaxed end to a busy day. Many casual eateries in Soho offer quick and delicious options suitable for children. The atmosphere is bustling but generally safe for families in the early evening. Restrooms available in many restaurants and public facilities (e.g., shopping centres).

Soho, London W1F

Soho is a short walk from the Savoy Theatre. Continue to use public transport via nearby tube stations like Piccadilly Circus or Leicester Square for onward travel.

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3

Sunday - Discovery & Ocean Wonders

Sunday, November 2
3.1
10:30 AM
GBP 0 for whole family

Museum Dino Discovery

Spend the morning at the Natural History Museum, renowned for its magnificent dinosaur exhibits, including the impressive T-Rex.

The museum is hosting its free 'October Family Festival' throughout the half-term period (Oct 25 – Nov 2, 2025), offering various family-friendly activities. It's a perfect indoor option for learning and wonder.

Entry is free, making it incredibly budget-friendly. Kids aged 3-12 will be captivated by the dinosaur gallery, mammals, and Earth galleries. Check the museum's website for specific festival activities and timings upon arrival. Restrooms and baby changing facilities are available. The museum is large and stroller-friendly. Allow 2-3 hours.

Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD

The nearest tube station is South Kensington (District, Circle, Piccadilly lines), which has a pedestrian tunnel directly to the museum. This is the most convenient way to arrive. Limited street parking is available but difficult to find.

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3.2
1:30 PM
GBP 100-120 for whole family

Ocean Tunnel Adventure

Explore the wonders of the underwater world at SEA LIFE London Aquarium.

Witness sharks, rays, penguins, and a diverse range of marine life across 14 themed zones. Walking through the Ocean Tunnel is a particular highlight, offering an immersive experience that kids will adore.

This is a captivating experience for all ages, especially 3-12. Allow 2-2.5 hours for your visit. The aquarium is fully accessible for strollers and has restrooms. Booking online in advance is highly recommended as it offers significant savings compared to on-the-day tickets. Multi-attraction tickets are also available if you plan to visit other Merlin attractions.

SEA LIFE London Aquarium, Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB

Located on the South Bank, directly next to the London Eye. Nearest tube stations are Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, Waterloo & City lines) and Westminster (Jubilee, District & Circle lines). Both are well-connected and stroller-friendly. Public transport is the easiest option; parking is very limited and expensive.

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3.3
4:00 PM
GBP 0 for whole family

Riverside Playground Fun

Conclude your weekend with some free play at a riverside playground near the South Bank, such as the Jubilee Gardens playground.

It offers climbing frames, swings, and plenty of space for kids to run around with views of the London Eye and River Thames. It's a perfect spot for one last burst of energy before heading home.

Ideal for releasing any remaining energy before dinner and winding down for the school week. The playground is suitable for a wide age range. Benches are available for parents. Public restrooms are located nearby. This is a great free activity that combines fresh air with iconic London views.

Jubilee Gardens, Belvedere Rd, London SE1 7PG

Jubilee Gardens is right next to SEA LIFE London Aquarium, making it an easy transition. Continue to use public transport from Waterloo or Westminster stations for your journey home.

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This weekend itinerary for London can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.