Things to do in London with Children this September

Regent’s Park on an autumn day

Whether you live in London or are visiting for a family holiday, there are plenty of things to do and see with children this September. While many kids will be back at school already, others may not return until the end of the month, and it’s the perfect time to get them out and about exploring what the city has to offer. From captivating museums to peaceful parks to intriguing exhibitions, your children will have heaps of things to keep them occupied over the next few weeks. Read on for my top 8 picks for things to do in London with children this September.

1. London Parks

Embrace the pleasant September weather by spending a day at one of London’s many parks and open spaces. Enjoy a picnic in one of the Royal Parks – such as Hyde Park, Regent’s Park and Greenwich – and let your kids burn off some energy. Or perhaps you might prefer somewhere a little less touristy, like Clissold Park, Coram’s Fields and Queen’s Park.

If it’s a sunny day, why not spend some time at an outdoor pool? Kids of all ages can splash around in London Fields Lido, Tooting Bec Lido or Parliament Hill Fields Lido.  

2. Hobbledown Heath

For endless entertainment, take your children to Hobbledown Heath this September. Located just east of Heathrow Airport, Hobbledown Heath is a sprawling adventure park that opened last summer, and comprises of indoor and outdoor playgrounds. Children can also get an up-close experience with a range of animals, such as meerkats, capybaras, lemurs and birds of prey. They won’t want to leave!

Apollo 10 command module at Science museum

3. Science Museum

If it’s raining – or you’re looking for something that’s both fun and educational – you can’t go wrong with the Science Museum. Both little ones and older kids will love the interactive exhibits, such as The Garden and Wonderlab. These hands-on galleries will delight curious minds as they discover science and question the world around them. Admission to the main part of the museum is free, although you may have to pay for special exhibitions.

4. Twist Museum

Another good rainy day activity in London for kids this September is Twist Museum. Opened earlier this year, Twist Museum can be found along Oxford Street, and is a unique experience that takes visitors through a series of illusions and exhibits. Expect a ‘Life Without Colour Room’, ‘Kaleidoscope Room’ and ‘Sound Lab’. The aim of the museum is to explore “the power of your mind in experiencing the world around you”. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

Tower of London

5. Tower of London

If you’re visiting London with kids, don’t miss the iconic Tower of London. Step back in time as you wander around one of the oldest castles in the country and take a journey through different periods of history, from Medieval times to the Tudors to its modern form as a tourist destination.

During your trip to the Tower of London, spot the Crown Jewels, keep an eye out for the infamous ravens, walk along the battlements, and brave climbing up the bloody tower. Still have time? Don’t miss the moat in bloom.

6. Madame Tussauds

When thinking of child-friendly places in London, Madame Tussauds is an obvious choice. This attraction provides hours of entertainment for all the family, with over 150 life-like wax figures of famous people and characters. Take a selfie with your favourite singer (such as Harry Styles, Ariana Grande, Amy Winehouse and Bob Marley), or an actor you admire (like Zendaya, Tom Hardy and Eddie Redmayne). You’ll also find sections dedicated to the Royal Family, Super Heroes and Star Wars.

Changing of the Guard outside Buckingham Palace

7. Changing of the Guard

Changing of the Guard is an absolute must for any tourist visiting London, and it’s a fuss-free activity for when you’ve got kids in tow. People come from all over the world to witness this royal tradition, which takes place outside Buckingham Palace at 11am on various days. In September, you can watch the Old Guard change with the New Guard on the following dates: 1st, 3rd, 4th, 6th, 8th, 10th, 11th, 13th, 15th, 17th, 18th, 20th, 22nd, 25th, 27th and 29th. Head down early to secure a good view.

8. Battersea Park Children’s Zoo

As a change from London Zoo, schedule a family day out at Battersea Park Children’s Zoo this September. Designed specifically for children, Battersea Park Zoo is compact so your little ones won’t complain about their feet getting tired from too much walking. Kids can say hello to the Asian Short-Clawed Otter, White Nosed Coati, Ring-tailed Lemur, Laughing Kookaburra and donkeys.

While in Battersea Park, you can also check out the iconic Peace Pagoda, wander around the Old English Garden, hire a bike, or spot birds by the boating lake.

So those are 8 ideas for things to do in London with children this September! Do you have any other recommendations? Let me know in the comments!

Serena