Looking for the best things to do in London with kids this September and October 2026? Autumn is one of my favourite times of year in London with children. There are brilliant park days among the fallen leaves, pumpkin picking, and family-friendly festivals and spooky-themed happenings for Halloween plus plenty of things to do during October half term.
Keep your eyes peeled for some of the best dressed houses that go all out for Halloween in London. I love taking the kids for October half term activities especially the Halloween events in London – and London always delivers.
I’m a London mum of two boys (aged 7 and 3) and I’m constantly looking for family days out that are enjoyable for parents as well as children. I’ve personally visited lots of these places but I’ve also included new openings and seasonal events that I think are worth knowing about.
This guide brings together the best things to do with children in London in September and October 2026, including Halloween activities, October half term events, pumpkin picking, exhibitions, theatre, free days out and brilliant family activities just outside London.
If you’re looking for October half term event only, everything is listed here. Or if you If you’d rather have the whole week planned out for you, I’ve also put together a 3-day October half-term itinerary in London for primary-school children
My Top Family-Friendly Picks for Autumn 2026
Best Overall: Halloween at Kew
Best Pumpkin Patch: Willows Activity Farm
Best for Halloween: Tower of London
Best for pre-schoolers: Winnie-the-Pooh at London Zoo
Best for rainy days: The Paddington Experience
Best theatre or show: Smeds and the Smoos
Best free activity: Hyde Park Discover Days
Best trip outside of London: Hampton Court Palace
The Best Pumpkin Patches Near London for Families
Pumpkin picking didn’t always appeal to me but actually last year at Willow Farm was one of my favourite autumn activities. There are some brilliant pumpkin patches within easy reach of London and we have visited several over the years. I’ve included my top picks below but for more details visit my complete guide to the best pumpkin patches near London where you’ll find full information, dates, prices and booking information.
Willows Activity Farm, St Albans
Best For: A full family day out
The place that changed my mind about pumpkin picking! Willows is brilliant with younger children as pumpkin picking is only part of the experience. There’s a full programme of events as well as the pumpkin patch itself such as arts and crafts, a Halloween maze, Character Shows including Patch the Pumpkin, Halloween disco, tractor rides and the chance to meet Meet Peter Rabbit & Friends. You can make a whole day of it rather than just picking a pumpkin. They are also holding a weekday preschool event.
Crockford Bridge Farm, Surrey
Best For: A more traditional pumpkin picking experience
For a more traditional pumpkin-picking experience, Crockford Bridge Farm in Surrey welcomes you into the growing fields to choose your pumpkin directly from the crop. There’s a huge variety of homegrown pumpkins and squashes in different shapes, sizes and colours, alongside fun displays and photo opportunities.
It’s worth knowing that pumpkin picking and the Pumpkin Festival are two separate events here. Pumpkin picking opens on 4 October and finishes before the end of the month to protect the crop from frost. The immersive Pumpkin Festival then runs from 24–31 October, with actors, dancers, entertainers, pumpkin displays, fancy dress, fairground-style games and an outdoor pumpkin-carving area.
Bockett’s Farm, Leatherhead, Surrey
Best for toddlers and younger children
Bocketts Farm was the first pumpkin patch that I took Oscar to when he was 16 months old and it’s particularly good for younger children. For 2026 they have Witches and Wizards week with a pumpkin village, a Reptile Roadshow, Science and Slime Shows, crafts, a spooky disco plus all the usual farm activities making it an fun autumn day out.
Tulleys, Crawley, West Sussex
Best for: The perfect Insta shot
Europe’s Largest Pumpkin Festival with 1.5 million pumpkins. New for 2026, The Pumpkin Valley, filled with giant pumpkin sculptures and peaceful ponds making it the perfect Insta aesthetic. It’s best for a more traditional pumpkin experience than a children’s farm day.
The London Pumpkin Patch, Parsons Green
Best for: not leaving London
The event includes winding paths, photo moments and autumnal backdrops, with interactive characters to meet along the way and over 10,000 pumpkins to choose from. We’ve not been to this one, but it’s firmly on my list.
Hobbledown Heath (Located in Hounslow and Surrey)
Best for: Loads of activities
This popular, large family adventure park, zoo, and indoor soft play has a pick your perfect pumpkin for Halloween half term – with themed photo points, Pumpkin Nights, seasonal games, street food and lots more!
Also hosting Fright & Delight with bug-eating challenges, monster discos and creepy crawlies.
Check out my full guide to the best pumpkin patches near London
Events and Festivals
Blenheim Palace – Another event just outside London and this one sounds brilliant. Halloween at Blenheim Palace is set to return for 2026 with new characters, immersive installations, interactive photo moments.
This autumn, along the 1.3-kilometre after-dark trail set within the historic grounds of the Oxfordshire UNESCO World Heritage Site, among the biggest new arrivals will be an enormous Spider Puppet, energetic Monster Disco and neon coffin selfie installations.
Dates: 22nd October – 1st November
Best for: 6 + and brave little ones
Price: Peak: £25 per adult and £19.50 per child / Standard: £23 per adult and £17.50 per child / Off peak: £19 per adult and £13.50 per child
SilverSpoon Tip: Halloween activities in London are brilliant but can be very lifelike and scary so I recommend parental guidance.
Hamleys – Fun activities at London’s biggest toy shop.
Armorsaurs Ajax pilot Liam Roberts is coming to Hamleys for a special meet and greet. Come and say hello, take a photo and step into the world of Armorsaurs.
Dates: 28th October – Hamleys Regent Street
Best for: kids all ages
Price: Free (but be prepared to spend inside the store)
SilverSpoon Tip: Hamleys is so much more than a toy store, it’s an unmissable London experience for kids.
Southbank Centre London Literature Festival
Including:
The Children’s Bookshow with Katherine Rundell (21st October)
Join Joseph Coelho and friends for a morning packed with poetry (23rd October)
The Smeds and the Smoos (Wed 28 Oct – Sun 1 November)
Search for a Story (29 October–Sunday 1 November 2026)
I’ve rounded up all the best Halloween events for kids in London here.
Historic Attractions and London Icons
Many of London’s top historical attractions will be running special Halloween and half term events. Check back here for updates of the best things to do in London with children in September and October.
Tower of London – chilling tales and haunting history at the Tower of London this October half term for a Halloween adventure.
The Tower has served not only as a royal palace but also as a formidable fortress and notorious prison. This Halloween, there’s something spooky waiting around every corner. Expect ghostly residents in theatrical costumes, ghoulish make-up and atmospheric sound effects throughout parts of the Tower and there are spirited gatherings at 11.15, 12.45 and 14.45.
Dates: 24 October – 1 November 2026
Best for: Parental guidance. May scare some children.
Price: Included in admission
SilverSpoon London: The atmosphere of London’s famous prison is perfect for Halloween and this promises to be something very special!
Westminster Abbey – Family tour: Souls, saints and stories. Hear about the tales of surprising ends, unusual burials, kings, queens, a saint and the fascinating connections between the Church calendar and this most mysterious time of year.
Dates: 26th – 30th October 2026
Best for: 5+
Price: Free
SilverSpoon Tip: Westminster Abbey works surprisingly well with children.
Fright on the Thames
What to expect: A 60-minute Halloween river cruise with live actors telling spooky stories from London’s past. Hear tales of Captain Kidd, Jack the Ripper and haunted Old London Bridge as you sail past the city’s landmarks. Tickets include a hot chocolate or a glass of prosecco.
SilverSpoon Tip: Bear the 7pm start in mind with younger children, and arrive at least 15 minutes before departure.
Best for: Children aged 5+ who enjoy ghost stories.
Dates: 24 October–1 November 2026, daily at 7pm
Price: £24.50 per adult; £23.50 per child
Getting there: London Eye River Cruise, Boarding Point 2, South Bank
Booking: Book here. Tickets are for the cruise only and don’t include the London Eye.
For even more ideas, read my complete guide to the best things to do in London with kids.
Outdoor Attractions
London Zoo – Winnie the Pooh at London Zoo Celebrating 100 years of Winnie-the-Pooh alongside the 200th anniversary of London Zoo with a special storybook trail bringing to life a new story inspired by A.A. Milne and E.H. Shepard.
Dates: 2 October – 1 November
Best for: Little kids will love celebrating their favourite characters
Price: Included in zoo entry.
SilverSpoon Tip: Don’t forget to book ZooTown, London Zoo’s brilliant soft play.
There will also be a seasonal pumpkin patch at the zoo.
Battersea Children’s Zoo – There are mysterious animal encounters and family-friendly Halloween storytime at this little London zoo for half term.
Dates: October half term.
Best for: Toddlers and Preschoolers
Price: Approx adult £17.50 / child £13.95
SilverSpoon Tip: This smaller zoo is great for little kids and also contains several playgrounds to burn off energy!
Kew Gardens – Halloween at Kew is one of London’s most popular and sell-out events. The gardens will transform into a thrilling, illuminated trail packed with scary encounters, surprises and shocking moments for brave visitors of all ages.
Use the code ANGIESILVER10 for 10% off.
Dates: 16 October to 24 October 2026: 6pm to 10pm, 25 October to 1 November 2026: 4pm to 10pm
Best for: 6 + / confident younger children
Price: From £23 per adult / £17 per child
SilverSpoon Tip: While I’ve never been I’ve seen videos and parental guidance is a must as it does look scary.
Also at Kew Gardens Hey Duggee’s Squirrel Club is heading on an autumn adventure. An outdoor trail features interactive challenges that encourage fun, exploration and learning in nature.
Dates: 17 October to 1 November 2026 (times vary)
Best for: Varies from different events
Price: Included with entry to the Gardens. This autumn £10 entry to Kew Gardens every Tuesday.
SilverSpoon Tip: A brilliant way to explore London’s famous gardens with little kids.
Chelsea Physic Garden – Family Halloween activities include Slime-making, broomstick making, pumpkin carving and spooky sensory play.
Best for: Varies for different events
Dates: 19 – 27 October
Price: Approx. adult £15 / child £10
Getting there: Nearest tube station is Sloane Square
Booking: book here
SilverSpoon Tip: If you feel overwhelmed by London’s bigger gardens, I recommend Chelsea Physic Garden which is much smaller and more accessible.
London Wetland Centre – SUPER Natural family-friendly Halloween adventure. Explore the magical superpowers and folklore of the wetlands. There’s willow wand making, potion brewing and fungi hunting.
Dates: 24 October – 1 November
Best for: 3+
Price: Included with admission
SilverSpoon Tip: A great choice for a less scary Halloween day out, and a great chance for city kids to learn and understand nature.
Fulham Palace – Young Archaeologists’ Club Witchcraft and Spooky Superstitions Halloween special exploring ancient superstitions and the ways people tried to ward off evil spirits.
Dates: 24 October
Best for: This is for older kids age 8 – 16
Price: £16
Little Green Fingers explore the world of growing vegetables and flowers. For age 3 – 4
Dates: throughout September and October
Best for: This is Fulham Palace’s pre-school offering for ages 3 – 4.
Price: £20
Eltham Palace – This historic palace is hosting a Great Pumpkin Party for Halloween half term. Families can enjoy interactive storytelling, spooky games, a themed trail and seasonal photo opportunities.
Dates: 24 October – 1 November
Best for: Great for younger children.
Price: Included with admission. Free for English heritage members.
Indoor Attractions and Immersive Experiences
Paddington Bear Experience, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd – Step into Paddington’s world with an adventure through London and Peru! Explore interactive sets with live performances, and themed activities inspired by everyone’s favourite bear.
For Halloween it’s Trick or Treat at Windsor Gardens with autumnal decorations and an exclusive trick-or-treat package including: Paddington Bear Ears, a souvenir pumpkin sweet bucket and a selection of sweets. The experience lasts around 70 mins
Dates: Open daily from 10am. 17th October – 1st November for the Halloween special
Best for: Everyone will enjoy a day out with Paddington, even parents!
Price: From £39
SilverSpoon Tip: The experience ends with the Marmalade Day which gives the opportunity for free play and the chance to meet Paddington himself.
Shrek Adventure London , Riverside Building, County Hall Westminster Bridge Road – An interactive walk-through experience where visitors join a live fairy-tale journey with characters like Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and of course Shrek and Donkey. There’s storytelling, actors, and themed sets to create a full 4D experience and fun, immersive journey for kids.
Dates: ongoing
Best for: All ages under 2 are free. Recommended for age 6 plus as there are a few scary bits.
Price: From £24 for adults £18.50 for children
SilverSpoon Tip: This is a big favourite with my kids and an all round winner.
Lightroom – Larger Than Life: Starring Wallace & Gromit, Shaun and More takes visitors behind the scenes of some of the studio’s most famous films
Dates: From 14th October
Best for: All ages
Price: £25
Family Film Week at the Barbican
What to expect: Family Film Week brings family screenings, crafts and workshops to the Barbican this half term. Highlights include a 30th anniversary screening of Matilda with bookmark making, and a preview of Papaya with pre-film collaging. There are also short films, a draw-along and a quiz, plus books, games and toys in the Cinema Café.
Dates: October half term 2026; check the programme for individual dates
Best for: Film-loving families; age guidance varies by screening
Price: Check individual screenings
Location: Barbican, City of London
For more ideas check out my complete guide to London’s best immersive experiences
Museums and Galleries
Discover Children’s Story Centre – An exciting immersive experience inviting families to join Luna and friends for a very special trip to a very big city. There is also ‘spooky’ storytelling and crafts for Halloween at the centre.
Dates: Various special storytelling sessions throughout September and October
Best for: All ages, but 0 – 8 are the main audience. There are even shows suitable for tiny babies.
Price: £5.50
SilverSpoon Tip: There are two floors of storytelling fun to explore plus an outdoor playground. You can build your own adventure with the extra immersive experience, storytelling and shows. This is a great value day out.
British Museum – For the first time since it was made nearly 1,000 years ago, the Bayeux Tapestry is returning to England.
Dates: 10 September 2026 – 11 July 2027
Best for: Older children
Price: Free. Tickets are currently sold out but watch out for releases
SilverSpoon Tip: The British Museum is a London icon but, I warn you, it can be a little boring for younger children
The British Museum is marking the opening of The Bayeux Tapestry with a weekend of medieval-inspired workshops and drop-in activities for children and adults. The full programme is still to come.
It’s worth booking a free timed Museum entry ticket for priority entry during busy periods. The activities do not include admission to the Bayeux Tapestry exhibition; that needs a separate ticket.
Dates: Saturday 10–Sunday 11 October 2026
Best for: 6+
Price: Free. First come, first served
Natural History Museum – A new tribute to one of Britain’s best-loved animated characters, Shaun the Sheep, is now on display at the Natural History Museum. Inspired by the world-famous Bayeux Tapestry, the specially commissioned Baa-Ewe Tapestry brings Shaun’s latest big-screen adventure to life through an impressive piece of stitched textile art.
Dates: 9 September – 1 November
Best for: All ages
Price: Free
Maritime Museum – Unboxing the Universe is a multi-sensory live science show that turns big space questions into exciting moments of discovery and wonder.
Dates: 24 & 25 Oct
Best for: 7 +
Price: £8
The museum is running free family workshops and storytelling sessions themed around bugs and creepy crawlies. Activities include sensory spider storytelling, the interactive Great Big Bug Show, crafts and the chance to become a museum Bug Detective.
Dates: 24 October–1 November 2026
Best for: Younger children and primary-school-age families
Price: Free
SilverSpoon Tip: Kids will love the Ahoy! Soft Play and Cove Playground at the Maritime Museum, you can make a full day of a visit to Greenwich and visit the Cutty Sark and the Queen’s House.
Young V & A – One of London’s best museums for children is currently running a brilliant exhibition.‘ Inside Aardman: Wallace and Gromit and Friends‘ goes behind the scenes of the famous stop motion show casing how the classic characters are brought to life.
Dates: Until 15th November
Best for: One for all the generations
Price: From £11
SilverSpoon Tip: Grown-ups will love the nostalgia of the classic characters, little ones will love discovering them.
Also Sound Explorers for children aged 0-2, a free event where babies and toddlers can listen, play and make some noise with Young V&A’s Play Champions! 24 – 25 September 2026 and 1 – 2 October 2026.
Horniman Museum – ‘Voyage to the Deep – Underwater Adventures.’ Inspired by Jules Verne’s ‘20,000 Leagues Under the Seas’, families are invited to board the legendary ‘Nautilus’ submarine and set off on an underwater adventure. Includes an Octonauts adventure trail.
Dates: Until 1 November
Best for: Preschoolers
Price: Adult £9.80, £7 child (under 3s are free)
SilverSpoon Tip: The nature playground is now open (and is free!) brilliant for the autumn months.
Octonauts story time and coral reef craft at the Horniman – Listen to an Octonauts adventure set in the Great Reef City, then make a colourful 3D coral reef from recyclable materials. Children will also learn why reefs matter and what happens when coral bleaches. Adults need to stay and help with the craft.
Dates: 27–28 October 2026, at 10am, 11.15am, 1pm and 2.15pm
Best for: £8.50 per child, including one accompanying adult
Price: Best for ages 4–7
Science Museum – Created in a collaboration between Fever and the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, the experience takes visitors on a breathtaking journey through the cosmos. Check dates and availability. Use the code ANGIESILVER10 for 10% off.
Dates: Through September and October.
Best for: Recommended for 10+
Price: Adult £18 / Child £15
SilverSpoon Tip: Standard entry to the Science Museum is free. The popular exhibitions such as Wonderlab and Power Up are paid attractions. Preschoolers will love the Garden (closed on Mondays, bring a change of clothes for wet play) and the Pattern Pod.
Postal Museum – Jolly Postman exhibition – interactive exhibition celebrating 40 years of Janet and Allan Ahlberg’s famous children’s book.
Dates: Until Jan 2027
Best for: All ages will love the Postal Museum but the Jolly Postman exhibition is more for under 5s
Price: Included in museum ticket.
SilverSpoon Tip: Don’t forget to check out Mail Rail, the famous underground train and Sorted! The post office themed soft play for age 0 – 8.
RAF Museum – October half term is Jet and Space Week. From stepping inside a giant planetarium to battling it out in laser tag and helping Percy & Mr Fox solve a museum mystery.
Dates: 24 October – 1 November
Best for: 3 +
Price: From £5
SilverSpoon Tip: The RAF Museum is a great day out for families. There’s also the AIRPlay soft play and an RAF themed playground.
Florence Nightingale Museum – Magic Lantern Show: Victoria Halloween. Lanternists, Jeremy and Carolyn Brooker, as they present a bespoke show that captures the magic of a Victorian Halloween!
Combining original glass slides from the 19th and 20th century paired alongside modern slides of their own creations.
Dates: 26th October
Best for: All ages
Price: Children £7.50, adult £15
October Half Term at Twist Museum
What to expect: Twist Museum is getting a spooky makeover, with Halloween surprises alongside its 80+ interactive illusions. Children can follow a free UV Ghost Trail, collect a UV keychain and prizes, and enter the costume competition. There’s also Halloween candy for children and daily magic shows from 24 October–1 November.
Dates: 17 October–1 November 2026
Best for: Children who enjoy interactive exhibits, illusions and magic
Price: Halloween extras included with admission; check ticket prices when booking
Location: Twist Museum, Oxford Street
London Transport Museum – October half term – Along the Piccadilly Line. This half term take part in fun family activities celebrating this historic Underground line and the people and places it connects us to.
Dates: Check website for dates in October.
Best for: All ages
Price: Included in museum ticket.
SilverSpoon Tip: One of our favourite museums in London. Don’t forget to visit the cafe for pancakes!
Tate Modern – UNIQLO Tate Play: Holiday Make Studio. Children can use everyday objects to build a shared installation, then return another day to find the space transformed. It’s an open-ended, hands-on option for October half term, with no set outcome or right way to make something.
Dates: 24–31 October 2026, 10.30am–6pm
Best for: All ages
Price: Free
Dulwich Picture Gallery – Mini masterpieces. Sessions for under 5s with each session beginning in the Art Play Pavilion and then on to the Gallery to discover the different people, places and animals in the paintings. Also Artplay sessions (£16) and Creative Tales (£8).
Dates: Ongoing
Best for: Under 5s
Price: £16
SilverSpoon Tip: A gentle intro to art for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.
Theatre and Shows
Wicked at The Apollo Victoria Theatre – Halloween is a great chance to see one of London’s most ‘Popular’ musicals. I saw it again recently and it’s one of the best in London. It showcases the journey of Elphaba, the infamous green girl who rose to become the Wicked Witch of the West as well as her friendship with Glinda the good witch. Here’s the link to book Wicked and use my code ANGIESILVER10 for 10% off.
Dates: Ongoing
Best for: 6 +
Price: Varies
SilverSpoon Tip: One of my favourite musicals in London but it’s definitely not suitable for younger children.
Southbank Centre
The Smeds and the Smoos – On a far-off planet, Smeds and Smoos can’t be friends. So when a young Smed and Smoo fall in love and zoom off into space together, how will their families get them back? We love this book and adaptation.
Dates: 28th October – 1st November
Best for: 3 + (but fine for all ages)
Price: £22
SilverSpoon Tip: Curated by Tall Stories, this brilliant theatre company always creates an amazing production.
Little Angel Theatre
The Pied Piper: A Rat’s Tale – The tale of Horatio, the brave little rat behind the legend
Dates: 12 Sept – 7th Nov
Best for: 5+
Price: £16 Adult £14 Child (age 1-17)
Pip and Posy Live – Pip and Posy are best friends whose lives revolve around the world of play.
Dates: 19th Sept – 22nd Nov
Best for: 2 – 5
Price: £16 Adult £14 Child (age 1-17)
Polka Theatre
Toto – A new musical for donkeys, astronauts and dreamers, adapted from the beautifully illustrated children’s book by Ximo Abadia.
Dates: 10th October – 1st November
Best for: 3 – 8 years
Price: From £10
At Sea – Dive into a fantastical puppet adventure, brought to life with stunning projections and original music.
Dates: 28th October – 1st November
Best for: 6 – 12 years
Price: From £15
Unicorn Theatre
Home Song – Featuring puppetry, interactive soundscapes and beautiful a cappella singing for babies.
Dates: 2nd Oct – 8th Nov
Best for: 6 – 18 months
Price: From £18.50
Matilda in Concert – Celebrate the 30th anniversary of Matilda hosted and narrated live by Matilda director, producer and star Danny DeVito.
Dates: 20th October
Best for: Parental guidance due to length
Price: From £4.99
The Lyric Hammersmith
Mr Sleepy Bum’s Dream Machine – 3rd October
Snip Snap Rapunzel Retold – 10th October
The Misadventures of Thor – 17th October
Penguin – 24th October
Franky – This Halloween, join Prof Frankenstein and her lovable creation for a monstrously fun family adventure!
Dates: 27th – 31st October
Best for: Ages vary
Price: from £12
Puppet Theatre Barge – Little Venice
Anansi & The Lost Sun – a West African tale told through puppetry, spoken word and traditional West African music.
Dates: 17 – 18 October
Best for: 3 – 7
Price: Adult £15 / child £12
The Town Mouse & The Country Mouse
Dates: 24 October – 15 November
Best for: 3 – 7
Price: Adult £15 / child £12
SilverSpoon Tip: Kids will love the unique venue itself is only a 40-seat theatre inside a converted barge.
This is Your Trial, Kids’ Court – A live comedy show where you can accuse your friends and/or members of your family of ‘crimes’ and see them put on trial.
Dates: 29th October
Best for: 6 +
Price: £10
SilverSpoon Tip: JW3 is a Jewish community centre but you don’t have to be Jewish to attend their events, it’s a great place to discover new cultures.
The Globe
Ghosts & Ghouls Family Tour, a special family-friendly guided tour of the Globe Theatre which brings to life the ghosts, spirits and scary occurrences in Shakespeare’s most chilling plays.
Dates: Until 30th January
Best for: Age 8 +
Price: Adult £28, under 16, £21
As You Like It family workshops with separate versions for ages 5–8 and 9–11. These are one-hour practical workshops using games and activities to explore the characters, language and themes. October family workshops also include entry to the Globe’s exhibition.
Dates: 27 – 30 October
Best for: 5 – 8 and 9 – 11, culture vultures!
Price: £13
SilverSpoon Tip: Don’t miss the guided walking tour of The Globe too.
Royal Ballet and Opera House, Covent Garden
Family Sundays at the Royal Opera House fun, relaxed and creative sessions.
Dates: Ongoing
Best for: Families with children aged 3 to 10.
Price: £20
Restaurants and Dining
Fortnum & Mason Disney Winnie the Pooh Afternoon Tea
The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon on the 4th floor of Fortnum’s is serving two reimagined Afternoon Teas, one for kids and one for parents celebrating 100 years of Winnie the Pooh inspired by Piglet, Pooh and Tigger too. The tea is part of a wider collaboration with Disney Winnie the Pooh in store with special gifts, honey smackerels, hampers and the first ever jars of real ‘100 Aker Wood Hunny’, made by bees in Ashdown Forest.
Best for: 6 + but fine for well behaved toddlers
Price: TBC
SilverSpoon Tip: Oscar is in his Winnie the Pooh era and loved this tea. Don’t forget to check out Fortnum’s seasonal window displays.
The Queen of the afternoon tea bus, Brigit’s Bakery will be running a Spooky Halloween Afternoon Tea Sightseeing Bus Tour. Use the code SILVERSPOON for 10% off.
Dates: 19 Oct-1 Nov 2026
12:00, 14:30, 17:00
Best for: 5 + , under 5s are not allowed on the bus
Price: £45 adult / £37 child
There is also a Peppa Pig Halloween London Sightseeing Bus Tour from Brigit’s Bakery, a spooky afternoon tea experience through London’s most famous landmarks and Peppa-themed spooky treats. We’ve done the original Peppa Bus tour and it was a huge hit, the cakes are also genuinely tasty.
Once Upon a Villain Afternoon Tea
What to expect: The villains are taking over the Disney Princess afternoon tea at Park Corner Brasserie for Halloween. Expect treats inspired by Snow White’s apple, Dr. Facilier’s top hat and Maleficent’s hat, alongside a little role for children to play. As honorary Princess Consultants and official taste testers, they vote for their favourite creations using a royal voting card and take home a certificate.
SilverSpoon Tip: Oscar loved spotting the characters in the treats, and I loved that he had something to get involved in alongside eating them! Dress up as you favourite baddie for extra fun.
Dates: Available for a limited time; check when booking
Best for: Disney fans and children who enjoy a themed afternoon tea
Price: £70 per adult; £45 per child
Location: Park Corner Brasserie, London Hilton on Park Lane
Halloween Family Fiesta Brunch at Treehouse Hotel London
What to expect: Madera’s Family Fiesta Brunch is getting a Halloween makeover with Sharky + George (our fave entertainers). Children aged 4–10 can enjoy 90 minutes of games, giant bubbles, dancing and Halloween challenges in a dedicated entertainment space beside the restaurant, while parents settle in for brunch and views over London. Costumes are encouraged!
SilverSpoon Tip: There are two entertainment sessions, so book your brunch around the 12pm or 1.30pm slot.
Best for: Families with children aged 4–10.
Dates: Sunday 25 October 2026; entertainment at 12pm and 1.30pm
Price: To be confirmed
Getting there: Madera, 15th floor, Treehouse Hotel London, Marylebone
Booking: Find out more and book here.
I’ve tried some of the best child-friendly afternoon teas check out my full guide.
For more of the best child-friendly restaurants check out my full guide.
Free things to Do
Portrait Gallery – Little Explorers free monthly sessions for under 5s. Introduce little ones to the Gallery through stories, songs and fun activities.
Dates: 14th October
Best for: Under 5
Price: Free
National Gallery – Decoding Pictures Family Tour. Explore the paintings with Gallery Educators, who will share skills and invite you to become a detective, solving the mysteries. Inspired by the Renoir in Love exhibition
Dates: Tuesday, 27 October 2026, Wednesday, 28 October 2026, Thursday, 29 October 2026
Best for: Introducing little ones to art
Price: Free
National Gallery: October Half-term Playing with Colour. Step into the colourful world of Renoir and get creative in The Clore Art Studio!
Dates: Tuesday, 27 October 2026, Wednesday, 28 October 2026, Thursday, 29 October 2026
Best for: Arty kids of all ages
Price: Free
Tate Modern – Play Studio: Our Memories, Our Stories. Inspired by the process of filmmaking, you’re invited to bring memories alive through making and conversation, tell a story together, and create short films
Dates: Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday during term-time. Every day during school holidays
Best for: All ages
Price: Free
RAF Museum – Little Swifts fun and lively sessions for pre-school children (aged 2-5 years) including arts and crafts, games, stories and songs all linked to the museum’s collection.
Dates: Second Tuesday and last Thursday of each month.
Best for: pre-schoolers will love this
Price: Free
British Library – Free Family Workshops throughout September and October at the weekend. Age categories vary.
London Parks – The mild weather means a great time to visit London’s parks. St James’ Park is one of our favourites or check out the newly reopened Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground which has a brand new huge Galleon themed around Captain Hook’s ship in a sand pit.
Also Hyde Park Discovery days which will include Hair raising Halloween 29 – 31 October, 11am – 3:30pm.
Halloween Happenings on High Street Kensington – For a brilliant free Halloween activity in London, head to High Street Kensington. From 24th–31st October 2026, families can follow a Halloween trail around the neighbourhood, with spooky surprises, themed workshops and seasonal treats along the way. On 31st October, there’s a takeover at Holland Park and the free Playful Park of Peculiar, with spooky characters, immersive installations, interactive games and live entertainment.
Dates: 24 – 31 October
Best for: All ages
Price: Free
SilverSpoon Tip: This is a great option if you’re looking for something fun and Halloween-themed without the price tag of some of London’s bigger events.
Diwali on the Square – Free event in Trafalgar Square, with 200 dancers, music and performances from Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities, plus sari/turban tying, yoga, meditation, puppet shows, dance workshops and food stalls.
Dates: 25 October
Best for: All ages
Price: Free
Looking for more budget friendly days out? Read my complete guide to free things to do in London with kids
Activities Less than Two Hours From London
Legoland Windsor – Brick or Treat is Legoland’s ultimate Halloween event, it’s the perfect autumn day out for families. Expect fang-tastic surprises, live entertainment, and over 55 rides and attractions. Buy tickets here. Returning for 2026, Lord Vampyre’s House Party is a show that’ll have everyone dancing!
Dates: 10 – 11 Oct, 17 Oct – 1 Nov
Best for: There’s something for everyone at this popular attraction in Windsor.
Price: £37
SilverSpoon Tip: Read my full guide to LEGOLAND Windsor
Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour – Lots going on at the UK’s most popular attraction. Get ready for Hallowe’en with a visit to Warner Bros. Studio Tour London during the much-loved Dark Arts feature and explore the dark side of the wizarding world
Discover the Great Hall with over 100 floating pumpkins above a sweet feast. Look out for Death Eaters throughout the Studio Tour in authentic costumes with sinister choreography.
Dates: 16th September – 8th November
Best for: Older children
Price: From £58.50
SilverSpoon Tip: Book well in advance as this is one of London’s top attractions. Be aware it is in Watford just outside of London.
Chessington World Of Adventures: HOWL’O’WEEN! There’s spooktacular Halloween entertainment this October with new Halloween shows, Enchanted Hollow – Trick or Treat, theme park rides at dusk and more spooky fun! Book tickets here.
Dates: 3rd – 4th, 10th – 11th, 17th October – 1st November
Best for: All ages
Price: £34
SilverSpoon Tip: Chessington is surprisingly easy to get to from London.
Alton Towers: Scarefest is coming, an immersive world of spine-tingling Halloween attractions and sensational live entertainment. There’s scare mazes and rides to spooktacular family fun for all ages. Guests can experience terrifying rides and attractions in darkness – including the all new Nemesis Reborn, plus Wicker Man and The Smiler!
Hampton Court: Discover Henry VIII‘s notoriously haunted palace this Halloween and October half term with atmospheric projections, eerie sound effects and magical spells. Keep your eyes peeled for restless spirits, you may even spot William Shakespeare. There’s also an autumnal trail filled with pumpkins, scarecrows, and seasonal surprises plus Halloween treats in the cafe.
Dates: 24 October – 01 November 2026
Best for: Parental guidance
Price: Included with entry.
SilverSpoon Tip: Don’t forget to visit the brilliant Magic Garden (children’s playground) and the famous maze.
Hever Castle – Halloween Half Term Fun. This year the theme is Spooktacular Science: a Mad Scientists Halloween Trail, make-your-own scientist goggles and Dr Frankenstein’s Science Adventure Show, all included with admission. The Autumn Colour season runs 28 September – 1 November.
Dates: 17 October – 1 November
Best for: All ages
Price: Included in admission
More Things to Do in London with Kids this Autumn
These are the ongoing activities that I recommend:
The London Eye – One of London’s most iconic attractions! The world’s largest observation wheel at 135 metres high. It takes about thirty minutes and you can book various other experiences to enjoy including afternoon tea. Skip the queue by buying fast track tickets. Book tickets for the London Eye.
Price: Starting from £29
House of Dreamers – featuring 16 immersive dreamscapes: Journey through a series of whimsical, pastel installations designed to spark wonder and ignite imagination. We loved this experience! An exclusive DreamBand and AI-powered technology helps bring the experience to life. Book tickets for House of Dreamers. Use the code ANGIESILVER10 for 10% off.
Location: Immerse LDN, Excel Waterfront
Duration: 60 – 90 mins
Best for: all ages
Price: £21.90 Child £14.90
SilverSpoon Tip: The boys loved interacting with the spaces, discovering fun details, sparking creativity and imagination whereas I loved the way I could release my inhibitions, let my inner child run wild plus get some fun photos along the way!
Bubble Planet
What to expect: Bubble Planet takes families through a series of colourful rooms filled with bubbles, lights and playful illusions. It’s wonderfully surreal, but the huge ball pit was our favourite part. Allow around 60–90 minutes.
SilverSpoon Tip: Bring socks for the ball pit and use code ANGIESILVER10 for 10% off.
Best for: All ages; children aged 2 and under go free
Dates: Running through November 2026
Price: Varies by date; check the live ticket price before booking
Getting there: Unit 22 Fulton Road, Wembley; around eight minutes’ walk from Wembley Park Station
Booking: Book tickets
Babylon, 8 Castlehaven Road, Camden – A theme park that is entirely indoors with a fun space theme. There are alot of attractions such as an indoor roller coaster (thrill seeking Oscar loved this!), bumper cars, video games plus a soft play.
Use the code ANGIESILVER10 for 10% off.
Best for: All ages but some height restrictions.
Price: Park entry is free but you pay for the attractions.
SilverSpoon Tip: I knew the boys would love this but it’s a surprise hit for me too! There’s lots for toddlers too and Noah liked the carousel.
SEA LIFE – London’s Biggest Aquarium is always a great choice if the weather doesn’t go as planned! For Halloween, the brilliant sea sorcerers have arrived for a frighteningly fun time! They love looking after their ocean home and helping keep their fellow sea creatures safer.
Click here to check availability and pricing.
Dates: Halloween activities 17 October – 1 November
Best for: all ages
Price: From £36 per adult.
Autumn is one of my favourite times to explore London with children. September still means plenty of opportunities for outdoor days out, while October brings pumpkin patches, Halloween events and some of the best family activities of the year. I’ll keep updating this guide thoughout September and October 2026 as new events are announced.
See the following blog posts for London’s best activities:
Best Things to Do in London with Babies and Toddlers
Best child-friendly hotels in London
Planning ahead? Here are my picks for things to do in London with kids in November 2026.
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