Check out these family-friendly activities for you and the kids to enjoy in London Bridge over the summer holidays, including immersive theatre, free museums and outdoor fun.
1. Meet Gnomus, Caretaker of the Earth
Come and meet Gnomus who will be checking every leaf and every flower in the London Bridge area to inspire a new generation of conservationists. This bumbling, gentle giant is kind and friendly engaging families in themes of extinction and conservation. Suitable for ages 6+
July 26th and 27th (FREE)
2. Climb aboard the HMS Belfast
Explore HMS Belfast and see what life was like aboard this floating city as you weave your way through the bowels of the ship and climb up and down ladders across all 9 decks. Kids will love taking the helm in the Captain’s chair, playing interactive games based on real-life exercises and keeping a lookout up on the flag deck.
Throughout summer
3. Explore the depths of the universe
Through a free exhibition and events programme, the Science Gallery London’s DARK MATTER combines art, physics and philosophy. The season highlights the critical role of artists, philosophers and storytellers in our understanding of the world around us and invites audiences to question their understanding of physics and even reality itself. Recommended for ages 6+
6 June – 26 August 2019 (FREE)
4. Become the next superstar fashion designer
The Fashion and Textile Museum’s summer holiday short courses are the ideal opportunity to nurture talent for drawing, design and digital skills, alongside other young people who share the same passions. The Museum Young Designers Summer School offers students aged 12-18 the opportunity to learn and practise their design skills to create a portfolio of work.
Various dates throughout summer
5. Get creative at the Unicorn Theatre
The Unicorn’s ever-popular series of drama, dance and set design workshops are led by professional theatre-makers and themed around current shows. Workshops range from a day or two days, through to a five-day ‘Play In A Week’ workshop. A great opportunity to have fun, learn new skills and make friends. Suitable for ages 7 – 16
Various dates throughout summer
6. Discover the history of London’s defining landmark
Uncover stories behind the engineering, the people, the architecture and the city that built Tower Bridge. Experience the glass walkway, witness the magic of the bridge-lift and take part in imaginative family-orientated learning activities.
Throughout summer
7. Catch a matinee at the Bridge Theatre
The Bridge Theatre becomes the forest in this immersive production of Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’. The seating is wrapped around the action while ‘pit’ tickets allow the story to be followed on foot as the story develops around you. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult in the pit at all times.
Until August 31st
8. Marvel at SEED; a sustainable circus
Seed is Circumference’s latest renewable spectacle for the whole family, a positive vision for a greener future featuring aerialists, acrobats and live music. Enjoy some outdoor circus fun at Potters Fields Park, bring a plant, a small disposable object or an item of clothing to incorporate into a growing installation, and plant a seed to take home.
August 7th and 8th (FREE)
9. Enjoy a picnic in Potters Fields Park
A stones-throw away from several family-friendly restaurants, Potters Fields Park stretches out alongside the Thames with unbeatable views of the iconic Tower Bridge. Head to One Tower Bridge to discover an eclectic mix of eateries including Temakinho, Vapiano and Gunpower, where takeaway options are available.
10. Experience the top of The Shard
With panoramic views stretching up to 40 miles across London, the top of The Shard offers the best views in the city. Don’t miss the Family Breakfast Fun Club on 24th August, with free face painting, balloon modelling and activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Throughout summer
11. Celebrate Summer by the River
London Bridge City’s annual summer festival returns, with a programme packed full of activities for all ages. Enjoy open-air cinema and theatre, big screen summer sports, live comedy and music performances, fun family workshops and more.
Throughout summer
12. Get a taste of Latin American culture
The biggest Latin American street food festival in London returns to London Bridge. Try flavours from across the continent, before shaking the calories off with some free dance classes, including salsa and Zumba. There’ll also be plenty of family-friendly activities, including face painting, storytelling and more.
10th – 11th August
13. Take a ride with MBNA Thames Clippers
Board at London Bridge City Pier and explore the city by boat. 5-15 year olds go free with a family ‘River Roamer’ ticket, which allows you to hop on and off between 17 piers. Get the kids involved in their journey with MBNA’s free activity books.
Throughout summer
14. Discover Europe’s Oldest Operating Theatre
Housed in the attic of the early eighteenth-century church of the old St Thomas’ Hospital, this atmospheric museum offers a unique insight into the history of medicine and surgery. Interactive talks and walks will provide inspiring and stimulating perspectives for young people. Recommended for ages 7+
Throughout summer
15. Uncover the dark secrets that lie beneath the world’s most haunted bridge
Located within the vaults of the original 1831 bridge, The London Bridge Experience and Tombs is a spooky immersive experience, tracing the 2000 year history of the world’s most famous and haunted bridge. Children up to 15 years must be accompanied by an adult.
Throughout summer
