October Half Term In London 2026
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October half term is always one of our favourite school holidays. The start of the school year always takes some getting used to and so, by October half term, we’re all in need of a break. Plus, it’s autumn, the perfect time to snuggle up at home, make hot chocolate and play board games together.
But, it’s also lovely to get our and about, go for a walk and make some memories surrounded by all the signs of autumn. So I thought I’d put together some ideas of things to do across London this October half term.

When is October half term in London?
October half term in London runs from 26 October to 30 October 2026 for most schools however some have moved to a two week half term. Some schools will have an inset day or two attached to the start of end of the half term as well, making it a little longer too.
So here we have ideas of things to do this autumn half term. I hope it’s helpful and if there’s anything that I’ve missed please do get in touch and let me know.
Days Out in London
If you’re just looking for a day out to enjoy over October half term then we have a lot of inspiration for you and these posts should be helpful:
- Educational Days Out in London
- Things to Do on a Family Trip to London
- Things to do in London on a Rainy Day
- National Trust Days Out in London
If you’re happy to go a little further afield then these posts may be helpful too:
- Family Days Out in the South East
- Educational Days Out in the South East
- October Half Term in Hampshire
- October Half Term in Surrey
- October Half Term in Berkshire
Afternoon Tea in London
If you fancy going for afternoon tea as a half term treat there are plenty of places to choose from and these guides may help you find somewhere perfect!
- 13 Options for Halloween Afternoon Tea in London
- Where to have Afternoon Tea in London
- Afternoon Tea For Kids London
- Where to have Disney Afternoon Tea in London

Fireworks in London
Half term is when all the fireworks displays start to happen and there are so many across London this year. This post has all the information you need to add fireworks to your half term plans:

Half Term Activities in London
Wherever you are in London, there’s bound to be somewhere nearby with organised activities to keep your children entertained over the holidays. Here are a few suggestions of things to do in the October half term in London:
Go Ape – Battersea Park, Alexandra Palace,
Go Ape Sundown Adventures – Selected dates, 16th October to 1st November 2026 – £33.95 per person
When the sun goes down, the lights come up. It’s the Go Ape signature thrills taken up a level. Dusk adventures. Glowing lights. Once a year. The event of the season is back at Battersea Park for a limited time only.
Biscuiteers Notting Hill Icing Café – 194 Kensington Park Road, Notting Hill, London W11 2ES
DIY Haunted House Icing Class – 25th October 2026
Visit Biscuiteers for some Halloween fun with this DIY Haunted House icing class. This special two and a half hour long class will allow you to create your very own masterpiece this Halloween.
Kids Halloween Icing Class – Various dates
If you’ve a creative little one in the family or are looking for a fun and unique way to keep the little ones entertained over the holidays, we think this is the perfect solution!

JOIA Battersea – art’otel London Battersea Power Station, 15th Floor. 1 Electric Boulevard, London SW11 8BJ
JOIA Rooftop Halloween Movies – 29th to 31st October 2026
Gather friends and enjoy dinner in JOIA followed by watching your favourite Halloween movie accompanied with popcorn at our Halloween Movie Pop Up on the JOIA Rooftop.
Chelsea Physic Garden – 66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea, London SW3 4HS
The team at Chelsea Physic Garden have so many events on this half term – with activities for the kids, for grown ups or for the whole family.
- Family Halloween: Build a Beastly Bog Garden – 19th October 2026
- Family: Chocolate Making Workshop – 19th October 2026
- Family Halloween: Trick or Treat Sweet Making – 20th October 2026
- Family Halloween: Autumnal Soap Making Workshop – 20th October 2026
- Family Halloween: Cauldron Candle Making – 21st October 2026
- Family: Witch’s Knots and Braiding Spells – 21st October 2026
- Family Halloween: Spooky Sensory Play – 22nd October 2026
- Family Halloween: Pumpkin Carving – 22nd to 29th October 2026
- Make Your Own Carnivorous Kokedama! – 23rd October 2026
- 33 Ghosts: Book Talk – 23rd October 2026
- Twisted Roots: Gathering – 25th October 2026
- Witch’s Hat Making Workshop – 25th October 2026
- Family Halloween: Pumpkin Painting – 26th October 2026
- Halloween Tales from the Enchanted Garden – 26th to 30th October 2026
- Sip & Spell: A Tea Ritual for Intentions – 26th October 2026
- Family Halloween: Broomstick Making – 27th October 2026
- Hag Torches- Mullein Candle Making Workshop – 27th October 2026
- Family Halloween: Silly Slime Making – 28th October 2026
- Botanical Magic: Make a Witch Bottle – 28th October 2026
- Family Halloween: Potion Making – 29th October 2026
- Family Halloween: Trick or Treat Sweet Making – 30th October 2026
- Creepy Crafternoon: Pumpkin People – 30th October 2026
- Ghost Stories in the Garden – 30th October 2026
- Secret Ceremony – Season of the Witch II – 31st October 2026
Hyde Park – Hyde Park Learning Centre, Hyde Park, London W2 2UH
Discovery Days: Hair Raising Halloween – 27 to 29 October 2026
Visit Hyde Park and take part in a host of free creepy crawly Autumn and Halloween-themed activities including:
- Investigating ‘feely boxes’ in the Witches’ Den
- Exploring hair-raising nature trail, discovering fascinating facts along the way
- Learn about the bats in The Royal Parks
- Listen to a spooky story!

The Phoenix Garden – 21 Stacey St, London WC2H 8DG
Halloween Trick or Treat Trail – Saturday 31st October 2026 – £12 per child
Are you ready for some fun at Halloween HQ? This October half term, grab the kids and join London’s best known Halloween Trick or Treat Trail. Explore areas of Covent Garden and Seven Dials you may never have been to before, test your observation skills, and learn some fun facts before arriving back at Halloween HQ for party time!

Brompton Cemetery – Fulham Rd., London SW10 9UG
October Nature Roadshows – 29th October 2026
Visit Brompton Cemetery this October half term for free drop-in activities perfect for families, nature-lovers and budding environmentalists!
- Solve clues on the spooky nature detective trail.
- Take a closer look at nature specimens at the mini museum.
- Get creative with wild crafts and have fun with interactive nature-inspired games!

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre – 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London SE1 9DT
Ghosts & Ghouls Family Tour – Various dates 19 September 2026 to 30 January 2027 – Adult from £23 and child from £18
Visit the Globe for a Ghosts & Ghouls Family Tour, a special family-friendly spooky guided tour of the Globe Theatre which brings to life the ghosts, spirits and scary happenings of Shakespeare’s most chilling plays.
Arts Depot – 5 Nether Street, Tally Ho Corner, North Finchley, London N12 0GA
Book Buzz – Sun 25 Oct 2026
The annual BOOK‑tastic day celebrating books and reading returns! Visit Arts Depot for Book Buzz, a lively, free family festival. Enjoy book swaps, a local book stall and creative drop‑in activities bringing the whole building to life.

Days Out with Activities in London
National Maritime Museum – Romney Rd, London SE10 9NF
October half term at the National Maritime Museum – Saturday 24 October to Sunday 1 November 2026 – Included with museum admission
Journey down the river to Greenwich and take part in a range of myth and legend themed activities at the National Maritime Museum this October half term! Featuring craft workshops and storytelling sessions, there’s something different happening every day of half term. All activities are free and drop-in with no need to book in advance.

Sea Life London Aquarium – Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB
Tricks & Treats – 17th October to 1st November 2026 – Included with admission
Embark on a journey of amazing discovery and splash into SEA LIFE London Aquarium this half term! Join the terrifyingly brilliant Trick and Treats team for a frighteningly fun time! They love looking after their ocean home and helping keep their fellow sea creatures safe. They’ve conjured up some magical challenges to find those eager to join their army of ocean defenders.

The Golden Hinde – St Mary Overie’s Dock, Cathedral St, London SE1 9DE
Halloween Aboard The Golden Hinde – Saturday 24 October to Sunday 1 November 2026 – Included with general admission
This October half-term, step aboard The Golden Hinde and discover a darker side to life at sea. From witches and strange charms to ghostly legends, sailors’ superstitions and stories of Francis Drake beyond the grave, join us for a special Halloween experience exploring some of the beliefs, fears and folklore of the Tudor world.
London Eye River Cruise – London Eye River Cruise boarding point 2, London SE1 7PB
Fright on the Thames – 24 October to 1 November 2026 – £24.50 Adult and £23.50 Child
Embark on the London Eye River Cruise, taking a 60-minute journey along the River Thames, and learn of the horrifying history behind London’s ghostly past. Including stories of infamous serial killer Jack the Ripper, the prolific ghost of Captain Kidd and haunted cries of Old London Bridge, prepare for a spook-tacular experience… it truly will give you a Fright on the Thames.
Tower of London – London EC3N 4AB
Halloween at the Tower of London – 24 October to 1 November 2026 – Included with admission
Step into a world of chilling tales and haunting history at the Tower of London this October half term for a Halloween adventure like no other. This Halloween, the Tower’s legendary past creeps back to life, with stories and spirits emerging from the shadows. Will you discover the Haunted Forge, the Enchanted Wishing Well, or the Raven’s Observatory? There’s something spooky waiting around every corner, but only if you’re brave enough to find out.
Although not technically in London, you can also enjoy Halloween at Hampton Court Palace this October half term.
Kew Gardens – Kew Rd, Richmond, London TW9 3AE
Halloween at Kew – Selected dates, 16th October to 1st November 2026 – From £16.75 per person
As dusk falls, the Gardens transform into a thrilling, illuminated trail packed with eerie encounters, hidden surprises and spine-tingling moments for brave visitors of all ages.
Venture into the shadows and come face to face with legendary creatures and haunting scenes. Beware the presence of Dracula lurking in the darkness, watch mesmerising fire performers light up the night, and keep your wits about you as the famous Headless Horseman rides once more. Dare to explore a brand new cursed tomb, where secrets lie buried and not everything stays at rest. Around every twist and turn, something wicked awaits.

London Transport Museum – London WC2E 7BB
October half-term: along the Piccadilly line – 24th October to 1st November 2026 – Included with admission
Visit the Museum over the October half term and celebrate the 120 anniversary of London’s Piccadilly line. The Piccadilly line opened in 1906 and now stretches over 70km with 53 stations. In 1977, it became the first Tube line to reach Heathrow, connecting London to the whole world. This half term take part in fun family activities celebrating this historic Underground line and the people and places it connects us to.

Iconic silent disco: Halloween special – 31st October 2026 – £25 per adult
All aboard for a spine-tingling late-night party experience at the Museum! Dance through time surrounded by historic trains, vintage buses and iconic vehicles as the Museum transforms for a special Halloween night for over 18s only. Expect ghostly glamour, fang-tastic tunes and an unforgettable atmosphere in the heart of Covent Garden.

Natural History Museum – Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD
Halloween at the Museum – Saturday 31 October 2026 – From £65 per person
Visit the Natural History Museum for the most spooktacular night of the year! This Halloween they creak open our doors for an evening of beastly boogies and scary specimens.
Paddington Bear Experience – Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7PB
Trick or Treat in Windsor Gardens – 17th October until 1st November 2026 – £15 per child plus standard admission
This Halloween, The Paddington Bear™ Experience is glowing in shades of marmalade orange and autumnal magic! Windsor Gardens has been decked out with gorgeous autumnal decorations, and you can also add an exclusive trick-or-treat package to your visit allowing your child a sweeter, safer way to celebrate Halloween this October Half Term.

V&A Museum – Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL
October Half Term – From 26 October 2026 – Free
Visit the V&A for October falf-term activities and get hands-on with family activities inspired by invention and reimaging cities. There’s something for everyone with workshops and performances taking place throughout the museum.
Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit and Friends – Until 15th November 2026 – £12.50 per person, under 3s go free
Go behind the scenes of stop-motion animation and explore how Aardman’s iconic characters and worlds are brought to life. In Aardman’s 50th anniversary year, peek behind the scenes of your favourite stop-motion animations and find out how Aardman brings clay to life. Visit Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep and Morph as many times as you like with your exhibition pass.

London Dungeon – Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB
Halloween: Curse of the Mummy – 17 October to 1 November 2026 – Included with admission
At the height of Victorian Egyptomania, amateur archaeologist Thomas Douglas Murray drew lots with his friends for ownership of the mysteriously well-preserved mummy-board of a High Priestess of Amen-Ra. After bringing her back to display in London, it seems an unknown evil travelled with them. Everyone who came into her possession was sure to meet a terrible fate.
This Halloween, live and breathe the tales of those who paid a dark price for disturbing restless spirits, as you unwrap the story behind one of London’s most ominous and unsettling legends, the curse of the ‘Unlucky Mummy’.

London Wetland Centre – Queen Elizabeth Walk, Barnes, London, SW13 9WT
Autumn Adventures – 17 to 23 October 2026 – Included with admission
Explore the wetlands at your own pace, uncover fascinating fungi, discover the incredible superpowers of wetland wildlife and immerse yourself in the magic of the season. Pick up your SUPER Natural logbook on arrival and complete the activities as you journey through the reserve.
With beautiful autumn scenery, amazing wildlife and plenty to discover, it’s the perfect outdoor adventure for the whole family.
SUPER Natural October Half Term – 24 October to 1 November 2026 – Included with admission
For one week only, discover a world of natural wonder and mystery. Perfect for younger children, this magical experience offers a scare-free day out in nature. Explore the magical superpowers and folklore of the wetlands. With charming wildlife, seasonal creativity and plenty of outdoor fun and surprises, it’s an awesome experience that will leave nature lovers spellbound.

The Postal Museum – 15-20 Phoenix Place, London WC1X 0DA
The Jolly Postman – 14 February 2026 to January 2027 – Included with admission
Step into the story in an interactive exhibition celebrating 40 years of the much-loved children’s book by Janet and Allan Ahlberg. Meet the Jolly Postman – off on his rounds with letters for some very familiar faces, from Goldilocks to the Big Bad Wolf.

October Half Term – 26th October to 1st November 2026 – Included with Admission
Take a ride for your imagination at The Postal Museum this half term! You can:
- Ride on Mail Rail
- Follow a family trail through the hands-on permanent galleries
- Become a jolly postie in Sorted! The Postal Play Space (not included in museum ticket)
- Take part in arts and crafts activities delivered in partnership with Faber-Castell

Royal Air Force Museum London – Grahame Park Way
London NW9 5LL
October Half Term: Jet & Space Week – 24th October to 1st November 2026 – From £5 per person
Get ready for a week packed with space exploration, action-packed missions and family fun. From stepping inside a giant planetarium to battling it out in laser tag and helping Percy & Mr Fox solve a museum mystery, there’s something for every young explorer.

Florence Nightingale Museum – The Nightingale School, 2 Lambeth Palace Rd, London SE1 7EP
Meet Miss Nightingale – 2nd Saturday of every month – Included with admission
Listen as the ‘mother of modern nursing’ tells you her story in her own words. Find out how Miss Nightingale overcame societal pressures to become a nurse, why she went to the Crimea, how she earned the nickname ‘the Lady with the Lamp’, and how she improved the conditions for the soldiers and nurses.

Victorian Animation – Saturday 24th October to Sunday 1st November 2026 – Included with admission
Visit the Florence Nightingale Museum this October Half term where they will be exploring the very early forms of motion pictures. Before the television, even before the big screen the Victorians had their own inventions to capture their eyes and imaginations. Visit the museum and make your own Victorian Animation by designing a thaumatrope or add a image to our community flip book.
Magic Lantern Show: Victorian Halloween – Monday 26th October 2026 – From £15 per adult and £7.50 per child
The Florence Nightingale Museum is excited to host lanternists, Jeremy and Carolyn Brooker, as they present a bespoke show that captures the magic of a Victorian Halloween!

The Royal Mews – Buckingham Palace Rd, London SW1W 0QH
Crowns and Carriages Quest – 24th October to 1st November 2026 – Included with admission
Whilst visiting the Royal Mews this October half term, don’t forget to pick up your Crowns and Carriages Quest pack! Will you be able to find all the little details in the Mews in the I Spy challenge, or work out the cryptic carriage clues?

Eltham Palace and Gardens – Court Yard, Eltham, Greenwich, SE9 5NP
Halloween half-term – 24th October to 1st November 2026 – Included with admission
Gather your little monsters for a ghoulishly good day out at Eltham Palace and Gardens this October half-term. Join the Great Pumpkin Party as they celebrate the season with family activities and entertainment. There’ll be interactive storytelling and spooky games, as well as a themed trail and a seasonal selfie spot around the site.

Lewis of London Ice Cream Farm – Fold Farm, Galley Lane, Barnet, London EN5 4RA
Creepy Creatures – 24 to 31 October 2026 – Adult from £4.95 and child from £8.25
Visit Lewis of London, if you dare, for an unforgettable Halloween experience with Wild Fangs as you get to meet 5 spooktacular creatures this October half term.

For something a little different, and just a little north of London…
The Making of Harry Potter: Warner Bros Studios Tour London
Dark Arts – 16th September to 8th November 2026
Get ready for Hallowe’en with a visit to Warner Bros. Studio Tour London during the much-loved Dark Arts feature. Explore iconic sets, props and costumes from the Harry Potter film series whilst we dim the lights and discover the dark side of the wizarding world.
Nox – 29th to 31st October 2026
As darkness falls over Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, Nox returns for three unforgettable nights this Hallowe’en. Step into the shadows and delve into the dark arts during this spine-chilling, after-hours event. Whether you’re a devoted Harry Potter fan or searching for a unique Hallowe’en event, Nox offers a magical night of tricks and treats around every corner.
The National Gallery – Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN
October Half-term: Playing with Colour – 27th to 29th October 2026
Play with watercolour, experiment with blending and explore how colour and light can create lively Impressionist effects. With artists Daisy Luck and Kevin Christensen, families will have the chance to experiment, collaborate and make a unique umbrella inspired by Renoir’s world to take home.
Stories in the Gallery: A walk with Renoir – 27th and 29th October 2026
Visit the National Gallery for a family story with storyteller Fiona Alderton, inspired by the colourful world of artist Pierre-Auguste Renoir and the exhibition Renoir and Love.
Creative family tours – 28th October 2026
The National Gallery’s Articulation alumni will lead special creative family tours this half-term. The Articulation programme supports young people in presenting and bringing fresh perspectives and creative ideas to the Gallery..
British Museum – Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG
Bayeux Boppers – 20th October 2026
Join family-friendly dance company Wee Movers to weave your own story through movement in this interactive workshop inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry! Children and grown-ups are invited to bring the Tapestry’s scenes to life together through play and imagination. No previous dance experience is required and we recommend wearing comfortable clothes that you can easily move in.
National Maritime Museum – Romney Rd, London SE10 9NF
October half term at the National Maritime Museum – 24th October to 1st November 2026
Journey down the river to Greenwich and take part in a range of myth and legend themed activities at the National Maritime Museum this October half term! Featuring craft workshops and storytelling sessions, there’s something different happening every day of half term.
Unboxing the Universe – Various dates, 26th September to 13th December 2026
Blast off on an unforgettable journey through space in this exciting science theatre show, and answer some big questions about the Universe along the way
The Sky We Share: Star Stories From Around the World workshop – 30th October 2026
For thousands of years, civilisations have turned to the stars for guidance. From the Polynesians who travelled across oceans using only the stars to light their way, to ancient farmers who timed their harvests by celestial rhythms, and storytellers who filled the heavens with legends, our new book The Sky We Share explores incredible stories from each corner of the world.
Science Museum – Exhibition Road, South Kensington, London SW7 2DD
Pokémon Space Trail – Friday 2 October 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027
Welcome Trainer! Discover an exciting free trail with multiple stops around the museum celebrating the world of Pokémon and our ever-expanding knowledge of space.
Smithsonian Starstruck: An Immersive Experience – 23rd September to 31st October 2026
Take a quick detour to the Sun to witness solar flares 30 times larger than Earth. Hear the Sun’s vibrations. Feel the energy that powers all life on our planet, captured directly from NASA’s Parker Solar Probe, the satellite responsible for making the closest-ever pass to the Sun and still operational today.
Becoming America: How Science Shaped a Nation – 23 October 2026 to 25 April 2027
Marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Becoming America: How Science Shaped a Nation, supported by Griffin Catalyst will uncover the science that shaped and was shaped by land, peoples and power towards the emergence of the United States. Through remarkable maps, stunning paintings and extraordinary instruments and artefacts, this landmark exhibition reveals the scientific undercurrents running through a momentous period of history.
London Zoo – Outer Cir, London NW1 4RY
Winnie-the-Pooh – 2 October to 1 November 2026
Celebrating 100 years of Winnie-the-Pooh alongside the 200th anniversary of ZSL, this special storybook trail brings to life a new story inspired by A.A. Milne and E.H. Shepard. This tale found within ‘A Little Boy and His Bear’ follows Pooh and Eeyore on an unforgettable night-time adventure through London Zoo after the pair are accidentally left behind by Christopher Robin.
ZSL at 200: The Exhibition at London Zoo – 1 April to 31 December 2026
Delve deeper into the zoo’s rich heritage with an interactive exhibition in the heart of London Zoo.
Horniman Museum – 100 London Rd, London SE23 3PQ
Members Family Bat Walk – 23rd October 2026
Enjoy a family friendly after dark nature walk and discover the different kinds of bats that live and hunt in the Horniman Museum’s Gardens. An exclusive evening walk for Members and Patrons.
The Enchanted Cinema: The Music of Spirit Animals – 25 and 26 October 2026
Join The Enchanted Cinema for a seasonal celebration of Day of the Dead and Halloween – Enchanted Creatures: The Music of Spirit Animals! Help them create the sound effects to animations using instruments, hands and voices in a fun, interactive workshop.
Octonauts Storytelling and Craft – 27th and 28th October 2026
Enjoy a special tale about the Octonauts crew and their travels to the Great Reef City. Then, using recyclable paper-based materials, create your own colourful, 3D coral reef relief whilst learning about the amazing role they play in supporting marine life and the impact of coral bleaching.
Day of the Dead Family Festival – 31st October 2026
Experience the magic of Día de Muertos through the vibrant traditions of Mexico City, where ancient heritage meets contemporary creativity. Inspired by one of the world’s great cultural capitals, this year’s festival transforms the Horniman into an immersive celebration of remembrance, community and Mexican culture.
Day of the Dead Evening Fiesta – 31st October 2026
As night falls, the Horniman Museum transforms into an intimate Día de Muertos After Dark experience inspired by the atmosphere of Mexico City’s cantinas, plazas and cultural nightlife.
Octonauts: Adventure at the Horniman – Until 1st November 2026
Pick up a free trail and join the Octonauts crew on mini-missions throughout the Museum, and discover some fun Octofacts along the way. Then head outside to the Sound Garden for a bonus adventure
Battersea Power Station – Circus Rd W, Nine Elms, London SW11 8DD
Meet Charlie the Chimney – 26th October to 1st November 2026
The Chimney Lift’s much-loved character Charlie the Chimney will be stepping out in public, giving you the opportunity to meet him in person and pose for a photo before their ascent.
Halloween Crafts, Workshops and Activities in London
London Wetland Centre – Queen Elizabeth Walk, Barnes, London SW13 9WT
Stained Glass Workshop – Selected dates, 17 October to 13 December 2026
Discover the art of stained glass! Join our creative workshop and design a stunning decoration to brighten your home.
Treasure Trails
If you want to get outside but you don’t really know where, we love Treasure Trails. It’s an adventure that the whole family can get involved in. Solve a mystery, save the day or be a spy! It’s great fun and we always really enjoy it. Here are some of the London Treasure Trails – you can see the full list here.
- Covent Garden – Seven Dials & Church
- Greenwich – Maritime Borough
- St Katharine Docks – Tower of London
- Pudding Lane – London’s Square Mile
- Westminster – Palaces & Gardens
- Trafalgar Square – Admiralty Arch & The Mall
- Five Pubs – St James Park to Market
- Bankside – The Globe & Riverside
- Waterloo & South Bank – Leake Street Tunnel
- St Paul’s – Cathedral & Sights
- Westminster, St James’s Park & Buckingham Palace
You can read about one of our Treasure Trail adventures here.

Theatre Shows in London
Going to the theatre is a great activity that the whole family will enjoy and London has a lot of great theatres to really make the most of. Here are the family shows on during October half term:
Arts Depot – 5 Nether Street, Tally Ho Corner, North Finchley, London N12 0GA
- Surinderella – Sat 17 to Sun 18 Oct 2026
- Nick Cope Family Show – Sun 18 Oct 2026
- Dear Zoo – Fri 23 to Tue 27 Oct 2026
- Down to Chance – Sat 24 Oct 2026
- Club Origami – Sun 25 Oct 2026
- Kevin Quantum: Anti-Gravity – Tue 27 Oct 2026
- The Amazing Bubble Man – Thu 29 Oct 2026
- Protein presents Luca Silvestrini’s The Magic Flute – Sun 1 Nov 2026
Royal Naval College – London SE10 9NN
- Murder Mystery Halloween Edition – Saturday 31st October 2026
- Lost Worlds by Luxmuralis – 6th to 8th and 11th to 15th November 2026
OSO Arts Centre – Old Sorting Office, 49 Station Road, Barnes, London SW13 0LF
- On Your Bike Baffo – 23rd October 2026
Dominion Theatre – 268-269 Tottenham Ct Rd, London W1T 7AQ
- The Devil Wears Prada – Ongoing

Lyric Theatre London – 29 Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 7ES
- Hadestown – Ongoing

Lyric Theatre Hammersmith – Lyric Square, King St, London W6 0QL
- The Misadventures of Thor – 17 Oct 2026
- Penguin – 24 Oct 2026
- Franky – 27 – 31 Oct 2026
Eventim Apollo – 45 Queen Caroline St, London W6 9QH
- Sonic Live in Concert – Sept 30th to Dec 18th 2026
- Avatar: The Last Airbender In Concert – Saturday 17th October 2026
- Hocus Pocus in Concert – Sunday 25th October 2026
- Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: In Concert – Sunday 25th October 2026

Cambridge Theatre – Earlham St, London WC2H 9HU
- Matilda The Musical – Ongoing

Barbican Centre – Silk St, Barbican, London EC2Y 8DS
- Family Film Club – Various dates
South Bank Centre – Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX
- Quentin Blake: The Southbank Parade – Tue 15 Sep to Sun 8 Nov 2026
- The Children’s Bookshow with Katherine Rundell – Wed 21 Oct 2026
- The Smeds and the Smoos – Wed 28 Oct to Sun 1 Nov 2026
The Other Palace Theatre – 12 Palace Street, London, SW1E 5JA
- Monsters: A Killer New Musical Comedy – 23rd October 2026
Royal Ballet and Opera – Bow St, London WC2E 9DD
- Children’s Alice in Wonderland Adventure Tour – 24 October 2026
The London Palladium – 8 Argyll St, London W1F 7TF
- James Bond Themed Concert Spectacular – Sun 1 November 2026

Globe Theatre – 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London SE1 9DT
- As You Like It – 15 September to 25 October 2026

Royal Albert Hall – Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP
- World of Warcraft: 20 Years of Music – Sunday 25 October 2026
- Matilda in Concert – Friday 30 October 2026
Wilton’s Music Hall – 1 Graces Alley, London E1 8JB
- Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet – Thu 15 to Sat 17 October 2026

Richmond Theatre – 1 Little Green, Richmond TW9 1QJ
- Musical Theatre Workshops (Ages 8-12) – Mon 26 Oct 2026
- Musical Theatre Workshops (Ages 12-16) – Tue 27 Oct 2026
- Fantasy Writing Workshop with Ollie George Clark – Fri 30 Oct 2026

Churchill Theatre – High St, Bromley BR1 1HA
- The Hare and the Tortoise – Tue 20 and Wed 21 Oct 2026
- Christmas Carol Goes Wrong – Tue 27 to Sat 31 Oct 2026
- K-Pop Demon Hunters Dance Workshop – Wed 28 Oct 2026

Greenwich Theatre – Crooms Hill, London SE10 8ES
- Top Secret: The Magic of Science: High Voltage – 28 Oct 2026
- Macbeth – 2 to 5 Nov 2026
- K-Pop Princess: Pop Dream Tour – 7 Nov 2026

JW3 – 341-351 Finchley Rd, London NW3 6ET
- This is Your Trial: Kids Court – 29th October 2026
Rose Theatre Kingston – 24-26 High St, Kingston upon Thames KT1 1HL
- Room on the Broom – 27th October to 1st November 2026
- Miss Americana: A Tribute to Taylor Swift – 6th November 2026
- The Rock Anthems Show – 7th November 2026
Alexandra Palace Theatre – Alexandra Palace Way, London N22 7AY
- Wallace & Gromit with live brass band – 1st November 2026

Leicester Square Theatre – 6 Leicester Pl, London WC2H 7BX
- Kay’s Gruesome Games: with Adam Kay and Henry Paker – 24 and 25 October 2026
- Mom Can’t Cook! A DCOM Podcast Presents: Return to Halloweentown – 28 October 2026
- Knightmare Live – 31 October 2026
Theatre Royal Drury Lane – Catherine St, London WC2B 5JF
- Jesus Christ Superstar – Ongoing

Gillian Lynne Theatre – 166 Drury Ln, London WC2B 5PW
- My Neighbour Totoro – Ongoing

Garrick Theatre – 2 Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 0HH
- Cirque Berserk! – Wednesday 21 October to Saturday 31 October
The following theatres don’t have any specific half term listings as yet but I’ll update them as new shows are announced:
- King’s Head Theatre – 116p Upper St, N1 1QP
- The Old Vic – 103 The Cut, London SE1 8NB
- Apollo Theatre – Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 7EZ
- London Coliseum – St Martin’s Ln, London WC2N 4ES
- Charing Cross Theatre – The Arches, Villiers St, London WC2N 6NL
- Peacock Theatre – Portugal St, London WC2A 2HT
- Sadler’s Wells Theatre – 62 Rosebery Ave, London EC1R 4TN
- Hackney Empire – 291 Mare St, London E8 1EJ
- Theatre Royal Stratford East – Gerry Raffles Square, Theatre Square, London E15 1BN
- Broadway Theatre – Rushey Green, Catford, London SE6 4RU
- New Wimbledon Theatre – 93 The Broadway, London SW19 1QG
- Adelphi Theatre – 409-412 Strand, London WC2R 0NS
- Arts Theatre – Great Newport Street, London, WC2H 7JB
- Duchess Theatre – 3-5 Catherine St, London WC2B 5LA
- Aldwych Theatre – 49 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF
Indoor Activities London
If the weather isn’t great over half term then you may want to do something indoors that still gets you out of the house. Here are some ideas:
Leisure Centres in London
Leisure centres can be a fantastic place to spend time as a family and they’ve come far over recent times, now having so much more than just swimming pools. Many have climbing facilities, soft play centres and even trampoline parks within them! Here are some of the ones in London to choose from:
- Kensington Leisure Centre
- Britannia Leisure Centre
- London Aquatics Centre
- Waltham Forest Feel Good Centre
- Latchmere Leisure Centre
- Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre
- Pancras Square Leisure
- Ironmonger Row Baths
- Clissold Leisure Centre
- Archway Leisure Centre

Trampoline Parks in London
Trampolining is a fantastic activity that children love and it’s perfect for a wet weather day – which is often the case in October half term! Here are the trampoline parks in London – and many of the leisure centres above offer trampolining classes too. It’s great fun for all ages.
Soft Play and Indoor Play Centres in London
Soft play and other indoor play centres are fantastic for children and are great for bad weather days too. We have so many great indoor activity hubs in London from typical soft play centres to role play dressing up experiences.
- Gambado Chelsea Indoor Softplay – 7, Station Court, Townmead Rd, London SW6 2PY
- Flip Out Canary Wharf – Canary Wharf Shopping Centre, Cabot Square, Canary Wharf Estate, London E14 4QS
- Flip Out Brent Cross – Unit 7, Staples Corner Retail Park, Geron Way, Brent Cross, London NW2 6LW
- Flip Out London E6 – 281 Barking Rd, London E6 1LB
- Flip Out Croydon – Centrale Shopping Centre, Frith Rd, Croydon CR0 1TA
- Flip Out Hounslow – Units 3, 4 and 5, High Street Quarter, London TW3 1EH
- Topsy Turvy World – L1, 117 Prince Charles Dr, Hendon Way, Brent Cross, London NW4 3RW
- Jungle Monkeyz Adventure Softplay – 12 Kaduna Cl, Pinner HA5 2PZ
- Jungle Monkeyz Adventure Softplay – W12 Shopping Centre, Shepherd’s Bush Green, London W12 8PP
- Rainforest Soft Play Club – 297 Haggerston Rd, London E8 4EN
- Macaroni Penguin Royal Wharf – 28 Royal Crest Ave. London E16 2PG
- Macaroni Penguin Battersea Power Station – G-017B, Unit 043, The Power Station, GroundFloor,
- Macaroni Penguin Kidbrooke – 7a Henley Cross, London, SE3 9JU
- Macaroni Penguin Wembley – 3 Wellers Way, Wembley Park, London, HA9 0UH
- Kidzmania – 28 Powell Rd, Lower Clapton, London E5 8DJ
- Discovery Planet – Redriff Rd, London SE16 7LL
- Roam Cafe and Play Space – 64 Tyers St, London SE11 5AE
- Dreami Play Café – Oakwood House, 422 Hackney Rd, London E2 7SY
- Kidspace Croydon – The Colonnades, 619 Purley Way, Croydon CR0 4RQ
- Kidspace Romford – The Brewery, Waterloo Road, Romford RM1 1AU
- Little Dinosaurs – The Grove, Alexandra Palace Way, London N22 7BA
- Little Dinosaurs – Town Park Cafe, Enfield EN2 6LE
- Clowntown – Unit c, Coppetts Centre, N Circular Rd, London N12 0SH
- N20 KidsClub – 1st Floor, 1111 High Rd, London N20 0PT
- Millie & Maisie Play Café – 76-78, Rectory Grove, London SW4 0ED
- Waltham Forest Feel Good Centre Play Park – 170 Chingford Rd, London E17 5AA
- Snakes & Ladders – Brentford TW8 8JF
- Active Play at Sobell Leisure Centre – Tollington Rd, London N7 7NY

Shopping Centres in London
Shopping centres are a great place to spend time. You can wander round the shops, grab some lunch and there are often organised activities and events in to make the most of as well.
- Westfield London
- Westfield Stratford City
- Brent Cross Shopping Centre
- Victoria Place
- The Mall Wood Green
- Canary Wharf
- London Designer Outlet
- W12 Shopping
- Cardinal Place
Pottery Painting in London
Pottery painting is a fantastic activity for the whole family as well as being a calm and relaxed experience. Children of all ages will love it and it’s so nice to have something to take away with you afterwards – or pick up a few days later when it’s been fired! Here are our London pottery painting destinations.
- Social Pottery – Camden
- Bonbon Pottery Cafe – Notting Hill
- Pottery Cafe – Fulham – Battersea
- Bonbon Pottery Cafe – Royal Wharf
- Social Pottery – Kentish Town
- Mino Pottery Painting & Cafe – Herne Hill
- Art Play – Shoreditch – Liverpool St – Spitalfields
- Social Pottery White City
- Studio Pottery London – Westminster
- Potato Pottery – Marylebone
- Bonbon Pottery Cafe – Battersea Power Station
Bowling in London
Bowling is another great activity for the whole family and perfect when the weather isn’t great. Here are the London bowling alleys to choose from.
- Lane7 London Victoria
- QUEENS skate dine bowl
- All Star Lanes – White City
- Lane7 London Camden
- Crazy Boules
- All Star Lanes – Brick Lane
- Tenpin Acton
- Gravity MAX Wandsworth
- All Star Lanes – Stratford
Laser Tag in London
Laser Tag was such a new thing when I was a child but they’ve grown massively in popularity over recent years and now laser centres are everywhere. Here are both indoor and outdoor laser tag sites across London.
- Laser Quest Greenwich
- Laser Quest Brent Cross
- Adrenalin Rush Laser Combat
- Activate Oxford Street
- Laser Quest Wandsworth
- Laser Quest Enfield
Read more about laser tag in London here
Climbing Centres and Aerial Adventures in London
Climbing is another great family activity and we have so many centres across the county – plus those included in the leisure centres above. Here are some more indoor and outdoor centres to give you some climbing inspiration.
- RavensWall Climbing Centre
- The Castle Climbing Centre
- EustonWall Climbing Centre
- Bethwall Green Climbing Centre
- VauxWall East Climbing Centre
- CanaryWall Climbing Centre
- VauxWall West Climbing Centre
- Climbing Co Fulham
- White City Bouldering
- The Font Climbing – Wandsworth
- Substation Brixton
- The Reach Climbing Wall
- Aldgate City Bouldering

Cinemas in London
Most cinemas have reduced tickets at weekends and in school holidays, a great budget activity that the whole family can enjoy together
Vue – Piccadilly
At Vue’s Mini Mornings you can see the best kids and family films from only £2.49 each. Mini Mornings run every Saturday and Sunday morning from 10am plus every day in the school holidays.

Odeon – Leicester Square – Tottenham Court Rd – Swiss Cottage – West End – Haymarket – Acton – Greenwich – Holloway – Islington – Putney – Streatham
With special Odeon Kids screenings of the most spellbinding fairy tales and animated films, grown-ups pay kids’ ticket prices, making it a great value day out for the whole family.
Cineworld – West India Quay – Bexleyheath – Feltham – Enfield – Hounslow – Ilford – Leicester Square – The O2 – Wembley – Wandsworth – Wood Green
Cineworld offer £2 family films which are the perfect introduction to the world of cinema. The discounted screenings bring you a selection of family films for £2 per ticket – for kids and adults alike! Adults must be accompanied by children, so treat the little ones in your life to an exciting big screen adventure.
There are many other cinemas in London – BFI IMAX, Everyman, Empire and Harlequin to name a few, but they all seem to have the same ticket prices and offerings during school holidays.
I hope that’s given you some inspiration when it comes to organising your half term childcare, days out and activities. I’ll add more events as they’re announced and please do get in touch if I’ve missed your favourite event off the list.
If you’re looking for more things to do in London this October half term, these posts might help:
- Rooftop Restaurants in London
- Escape Rooms in London
- The Best Bottomless Afternoon Tea in London
- Where to play Crazy Golf in London
- Where to have Afternoon Tea in London
- Bottomless Brunch in London
- Where to go Wine Tasting in London
- 17 Pubs with Play Areas in London
- Free Rooftop Gardens in London
- Where to practice Archery in London

