Free things to do in London this summer
Day tripping to London can be a great alternative to the Staycation. With lots of fun for children of all ages it can be difficult to manage the wants and needs of your whole family but we have a few ideas up our sleeves that will cater for EVERYONE. We also know that the best things in life are FREE so we have put together this list of 5 free places to go this summer with your children! Perfect for those on a budget and spacing out their spending this summer.
THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
First up we have the national history museum. This exciting museum is a crowd pleaser for adults and children alike. We can’t wait to check out the Museum of the Moon which is on throughout the summer.
From an outdoor gallery to becoming a nature champion, The museum has so much on offer. The kids will love exploring Space and Nature displays and of course the life size models of roaring dinos!
The site is based on a colour scheme map of free galleries with lots of things to do in each. There are cafes and food on site but there are lots of places to sit and eat your own picnic food too.
The museum is open every day and opening times are 10am- 5-50pm
THE SCIENCE MUSEUM
Just around the corner from the Natural History Museum is the Science Museum. An exciting and interactive place filled with family fun. Geek out on interactive exhibits, conversation starting objects and exhibits and even a life-sized model of Boaty McBoatface.
The museum has tailor made areas for different age groups with a garden that is a specifically made interactive space for 3/6 years where your children can explore water, light, construction and sound.
Pattern pod is a multi sensory area for up to 8 year olds where the kids can follow robot trails and play with water without getting wet (phew!).
The Science Museum is open daily from 10am- 6.30pm during the school holidays.
TATE GALLERY
London is jam packed with spectacular art and architecture and some of the best art galleries in the world with the Tate galleries at the forefront.
The Tate galleries are located in the north and south of the river Thames. Tate modern is home to a exciting collection of modern art and features permanent collections from Marcel du Champ, David Hockney and Paula Rego.
Tate Britain features British art both historic and modern. Both galleries offer art trillions, which encourage children to get creative and explore with activities. Both have fascinating art for all the-family to enjoy.
Entry is free and both galleries open daily from 10-6pm and till 10pm on Friday and Saturday.
THE HORNIMAN MUSEUM
The Horniman Museum is based in forest hill in South London. The museum, garden and café are all free entry and host a large array of collections of anthropology, natural history and musical instruments and is extremely family friendly.
The museum hosts exhibitions, events , workshops , shows and festivals. It has recently opened their beautiful garden which has animal walks and a butterfly house .
The museum has so much to offer including a new aquarium and giant stuffed walrus!
Entry is free and the museum is open daily from 10 am – 5.30 and closed only on 24-26th December.
The gardens open Monday – Saturday 7.15am till sunset Sunday’s and bank holidays 8am – sunset.
THE NATIONAL THEATRE
The National Theatre is located on the South Bank, just minutes away from Covent Garden, the West End and Waterloo.
The theatre holds workshops throughout the summer holidays, with behind the scene tours, costuming designing. You can learn about the skills needed by actors and actresses as well as even having a go at musical composing!
The behind the scenes are free and family friendly and the theatre is open Monday – Saturday 9.30 am – 11pm.
As a side note it is worth your time planning your travel in advance to save a few more extra pennies. Kids travel free on London Underground services and if you book your train travel ticket in advance you could be looking at saving even more money!
Author: Helen Loder
Co-Director of Sevenoaks Mums