11 Free And Fun Winter Break Activities For Kids In London

Are you looking for fun and budget-friendly activities to get your kids out of the house this winter break? Look no further than London. Yes, that’s right, London! While it may be a city that is known for being pricey and perhaps not family-friendly at first glance, London is absolutely a place you can find not only fun things to do with your children, but free things as well. In fact, there’s almost always something going on for children of all ages in this city. Here are just a few free and fun winter break activities for kids in London:

Explore a Museum

Wondering “what can kids do for free in London?”. London is a city steeped in history, so it should come as no surprise that there are a plethora of world-class museums that you and your family can explore – many of them totally free. Some of the best free museums for families include:

• Natural History Museum – This museum brings wildlife and dinosaurs to life, you’re even greeted by one of these old world giants when you enter! There are many hands-on exhibits for children of all ages here, as well as activity packs that the whole family can enjoy. 
• Victoria and Albert Museum – Here you’ll find ancient and modern exhibits of jewellery, furniture and fashion from the far east, as well as plays and workshops that are sure to spark interest for the whole family.
• The British Museum – The most popular museum in the UK, the British Museum is where you’ll find everything from ancient Egyptian mummies to the Rosetta Stone. If you have any history buffs (or budding ones) in your family, then this museum is for you. 
• Science Museum – Who doesn’t love science? Especially when you can find everything you ever wanted to know about the environment, space and transportation all under one roof at London’s interactive Science Museum. It’s free to enter and has a host of hands-on exhibits for kids of all ages.

Visit Landmarks and Attractions

When it comes to what’s on in London for families, there’s always something to see and do. There are literally thousands of years of history to feast your eyes upon in the city, so take a walk and check out some of these historic landmarks and attractions – and don’t forget to bundle up in your new Protected Species winter parka when you explore:

• Buckingham Palace – While it does cost money to tour the actual palace, standing outside to witness the world-famous changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace is completely free. Just make sure to check the schedule over the winter before you go, as it takes place on alternative days in the winter months.
• London City Farms – A great choice for families with animal lovers, visiting one of London’s 12 city farms is a wonderful way to give your child a snapshot into what makes a farm work and understand where their food comes from. Just make sure you check each farm’s schedule before your visit to ensure they’re operating on the day you want to visit.
• Kensington Gardens – Right next to Hyde Park you can find Kensington Gardens. It’s home to Diana, Princess of Wales’ Memorial Playground, which is an impressive structure that features a pirate ship. Entry is free, so it’s one of the most popular free winter break activities for kids in London.
• Crystal Palace Park – If you’re looking for life-size dinosaurs, a lake complete with boats, or a giant tea maze, then Crystal Palace Park must be on your to-do list. This South London park is free for visitors and something you won’t want to miss.
• Coram’s Fields – This unique experience is exciting for kids and reassuring for adults, as it’s a seven-acre park and playground that only adults with children are permitted within. Plus, it’s staffed to ensure everyone’s secure and safe. It also happens to be close to the Foundling Museum, a free museum that has several activities the whole family is sure to enjoy.

Do a Spot of Shopping

In London, shopping takes on a whole new meaning as you’ll be able to visit stores that simply don’t exist anywhere else in the whole world. The best part is that you don’t actually have to buy anything as window shopping can be just as fun! Get ready to be impressed when you take a turn in these London landmarks:

• Hamleys – For kids, it doesn’t get much better than Hamleys. This world-famous toy store is one of the largest in the world. It has six whole floors of toys and games for your child to explore. Just make sure you make it clear that there will be no buying before you go!
• Selfridges – You may not be in the market for London high fashion, but if you go to Selfridges during the holidays, you’ll find fun workshops for the kids, family-friendly restaurants and even a spot of storytelling.

London is an amazing place to visit, especially for families on a budget! There’s literally something for everyone in this energetic city, so try out some of these fun winter break activities for kids in London this holiday season.

Featured image by Robert Bye on Unsplash