Free Kids Activities in London 2026
London is one of the best cities in the world for free family activities. From world-class museums to parks, outdoor playgrounds and community events — here's our guide to free things to do with kids in London.
London can feel expensive for families, but the good news is that the city has an extraordinary amount to offer completely free of charge. Some of the world's best museums are here, entry is free, and they're genuinely brilliant for children. Add in parks, playgrounds, free events and outdoor spaces, and you've got a city packed with ways to keep kids entertained without spending a penny.
Here's our guide to the best free kids activities in London in 2026.
Free Museums for Kids in London
London's museums are genuinely world-class and almost all of them are free. This is one of the greatest things about the city and something families should absolutely take advantage of.
Natural History Museum
A perennial favourite with children. The dinosaur skeletons alone make the trip worthwhile — the blue whale skeleton in the main hall is one of the most spectacular things you'll see in any museum anywhere. There are dedicated children's discovery zones and family trails throughout. Free entry, though some special exhibitions charge.
Science Museum
Right next to the Natural History Museum in South Kensington, the Science Museum is outstanding for curious children. Interactive exhibits on space, technology and engineering keep kids engaged for hours. The Wonder Lab on the first floor is brilliant (small charge) but the rest of the museum is completely free.
British Museum
For older children (roughly 7 and up), the British Museum is a window into every civilisation that has ever existed. The Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, Greek sculptures — it's all here and it's all free. Family trails and activity backpacks are available at weekends.
V&A Museum of Childhood (East London)
Located in Bethnal Green, this is one of the best museums specifically designed with children in mind. Toy collections, interactive displays, and a programme of free workshops and events throughout the year. Perfect for little ones.
Tate Modern
Modern art might not sound like obvious territory for kids, but Tate Modern on the South Bank consistently wins families over. The sheer scale of the Turbine Hall alone is worth the trip, and there are excellent family trails and free events throughout the year.
Free Parks and Outdoor Spaces
Royal Parks
All of London's Royal Parks are free to enter and offer huge amounts of space for children to run, explore and play. Hyde Park, Regent's Park, Greenwich Park, Richmond Park and Victoria Park are all excellent. Richmond Park in particular is magical — red and fallow deer roam freely and children are absolutely captivated by them.
Playgrounds
London has hundreds of excellent free playgrounds, many of them recently renovated with modern equipment. Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens (free, near Hyde Park) is one of the best in the country — themed around Peter Pan with a pirate ship, teepees and sand. Coram's Fields in Bloomsbury is another gem, adults only admitted with children.
Hampstead Heath
A wild, open space in North London that feels miles from the city. Kids love the hills, ponds and woodland. In summer, the ponds are open for swimming. Free to enter and explore.
Free Events and Activities
Libraries
London's public libraries offer free story times, reading groups and craft sessions for children throughout the year. Check your local library's programme — most run regular sessions for babies, toddlers and school-age children.
Borough Markets and Community Events
Many of London's markets and community spaces run free children's activities, particularly during school holidays. Check your local council's website for seasonal events.
South Bank
The South Bank area between Waterloo and London Bridge is one of the best free family destinations in the city. Street performers, pop-up play installations, and the river itself keep children entertained. In summer there's often free outdoor theatre and music.
Free Things to Do in London by Age
Under 2s: Natural History Museum (pick a quiet weekday), any Royal Park, local library story time, Tate Modern Turbine Hall.
2–5 years: Diana Memorial Playground, V&A Museum of Childhood, Coram's Fields, Science Museum (free floors), Hampstead Heath.
5–10 years: British Museum, Natural History Museum, Science Museum, Greenwich Park and the Royal Observatory (exterior), any Royal Park.
10–12 years: Tate Modern, British Museum, South Bank exploration, Hampstead Heath, Richmond Park deer spotting.
Tips for Free Days Out in London
Travel off-peak. If you have a 11-and-under Oyster card for your children, tube and bus travel is free during off-peak hours and weekends. This makes exploring much easier.
Book timed entry slots. The free museums are hugely popular. Many now require free timed entry booking for busy periods — always check online before you go.
Combine with a park. Most of the major museums are near parks. Combine the two for a full day out — museum in the morning, picnic and play in the afternoon.
Pack your own food. Museum cafés are expensive. Pack lunch and save significantly — most museums and all parks have picnic areas.
Finding More Free Activities Near You
The activities above are just a starting point. London has hundreds of community play sessions, free outdoor events and local activities happening every week.
Search all kids activities on Sparkzy and filter by your area to discover what's on near you — including free and low-cost options across every London borough.
Find kids activities near you
Browse hundreds of activities across London and the UK on Sparkzy.
Search Activities