Looking for ways to keep the little ones entertained without spending a fortune? From iconic museums and dinosaur adventures to beautiful parks and free summer entertainment, London is packed with brilliant things to do with kids — and you don’t need a big budget to enjoy them.
The summer holidays can be expensive, particularly when you’re entertaining children day after day. Thankfully, London is one of the best cities with an incredible choice of museums, galleries, parks, playgrounds and incredible experiences. Whether you have toddlers, primary-school-aged children or older kids to entertain, here are the best free things to do with kids in London this summer. Make this summer one to remember without breaking the bank.
1. Go Dinosaur Hunting at Crystal Palace Park
Take the kids on an adventure at Crystal Palace Park, home to London’s famous Victorian dinosaur sculptures. The 30 dinosaur sculptures have recently been restored as part of the park’s regeneration, making this a brilliant outdoor adventure for curious little explorers. Children can wander around the lakeside setting, discover the dinosaurs and enjoy the park’s playground. For younger children, it’s an easy way to combine a bit of history, fresh air and plenty of space to run around, all without spending a penny.
Address: Thicket Rd, London SE19 2GA | crystalpalacepark.org.uk
2. Spend the Day at the Natural History Museum
From enormous dinosaur skeletons and fascinating fossils to the spectacular Hintze Hall, there’s plenty to keep children entertained for hours. The museum also has family activities and seasonal experiences throughout the year. Entry to the museum is free, although some special exhibitions may require a ticket. This is worth checking with the kids if you’ve never been.
Address Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD | nhm.ac.uk
3. Let Them Discover Science at the Science Museum
If your kids love discovering how things work and asking a million questions a day, it’s time to visit Science Museum. The museum is packed with interactive galleries covering everything from space and technology to medicine and engineering. It’s educational without feeling like school — exactly what you want during the holidays. Entry is free, although certain experiences and exhibitions may require tickets.
Address: Exhibition Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 2DD | Website: www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
4. Spend the Afternoon at the Diana Memorial Playground
Let the kids’ imaginations run wild at the Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens. The much-loved playground features a huge wooden pirate ship, teepees, sensory trails and plenty of space for imaginative play. It’s particularly brilliant for younger children and makes a lovely addition to a picnic or walk around Kensington Gardens. Top tip: It can get busy during the school holidays, so arriving earlier can make for a more relaxed visit.
Address: Kensington Gardens, Broad Walk, London W2 4RU | Website: www.royalparks.org.uk
5. Have a Picnic in Regent’s Park
London’s parks are some of the easiest ways to enjoy a completely free family day out. Head to The Regent’s Park with a picnic, football, bubbles or a ball and let the children burn off some energy. You can explore the gardens, spot wildlife, enjoy the wide open spaces and make your own adventure around the park. Pack lunch from home and you’ve got yourself a very affordable summer day out.
6. Explore Southbank
Head towards the vibrant South Bank for a family-friendly wander along the River Thames. The Southbank Centre has a programme of free events and activities throughout summer 2026, including free performances, exhibitions and cultural experiences. Even when there isn’t a specific event taking place, the riverside itself makes a great outing. Watch the boats, take in the London skyline, spot street performers and let the children enjoy the atmosphere.
Address: Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX | Website: southbankcentre.co.uk
7. Get Lost in the Maze
For something a little different and adventurous, there are mazes all around the country and they are absolutely incredible. Some have been growing for decades, from the Castlewell Peace Maze in County Down to a farm estate in Cornwall, the whole family will love the adventure of a maze. Perfect for children to navigate their way through and find a way out. Some of them have playgrounds nearby, making it easy to turn the maze into a full afternoon of outdoor fun.
8.Visit London Museum Docklands
Take the family to Canary Wharf for a dose of history at London Museum Docklands. The museum explores London’s fascinating relationship with the River Thames, trade and the docks, with galleries that bring the capital’s history to life. The location also makes it easy to combine your museum visit with a walk around Canary Wharf. During summer 2026, there’s even a free pop-up minigolf course at Montgomery Square, running until 27 September.
9. Have an Adventure at the Young V&A
Designed specifically with young children in mind, the Young V&A in Bethnal Green is a brilliant option for a creative day out. Expect colourful displays, imaginative spaces, toys and objects from around the world, with plenty for children to explore and interact with. It’s particularly good for younger children who may not have the patience for a traditional museum.
Address: Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green, London, E2 9PA | www.vam.ac.uk
10. Visit the Horniman Museum & Gardens
For a family day out that combines culture, nature and plenty of things for children to discover, head south to the Horniman Museum and Gardens. The museum’s collections cover anthropology, natural history, musical instruments and more, while the surrounding gardens offer plenty of space to explore. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend several hours without needing to spend money on entertainment.
Location: 100 London Rd, London SE23 3PQ | Website: www.horniman.ac.uk
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