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Visitors enjoying gardening activities in the kitchen garden at Osterley Park and House, London
Visitors enjoying gardening activities in the kitchen garden at Osterley Park and House, London | © National Trust Images/Rob Stothard

Family-friendly places to visit in London

Discover the top places to visit in and around London with your family. Make memories to treasure as you get active, tackle trails and connect with nature together in the great outdoors, or enjoy immersing yourself in the history of famous historic houses.

Planning ahead: Summer in London

Two onlookers are thrown into silhouette as they gaze at Helios

Luke Jerrram's Helios at Osterley Park and House 

Come and see Luke Jerram’s 7-metre spherical sculpture of the Sun, Helios, centre-stage at the top of Osterley House's beautiful 18th century portico from 6 - 9 June and 11-14 July. Revel in the sun's dramatic beauty and power up close.

Pond dipping in the River Wandle at Morden Hall Park, London

Park Explorers for under 5s term time on Mondays at Morden Hall Park 

Our Park Explorers group is for children aged 2-5 years old and their parents/carers. Together we learn about the natural world around us, with a different outdoor theme each week.

Young people working with National Trust rangers at Ilam Park, Peak District

Rainham Hall - Young Rangers 

First Saturday of the month. Suitable for ages 6 to 12 years. Learn new skills and meet new friends whilst taking part in gardening and nature based craft activities.

Illustration of a lady from Horrible Histories' Gorgeous Georgians, dressed in a pink dress and a towering white wig decorated with flowers.

Gorgeous Georgians at Osterley Park and House 

Step back in time on this family-friendly interactive trail, inspired by the bestselling Horrible Histories® book. Discover the quirks and scandals of Georgian life with ten fun-filled activities from Wacky Wigs and Outrageous Outlaws to Posh Potties and Marvellous Make-Up. Runs until 31 August 2025.

Mum and two small children walking toward large willow sculptures in meadow at Runnymede

Runnymede Magna Carta Weekend: 14-15 June 

Join us to celebrate the anniversary of the Magna Carta with a two-day family event at the site where this historic charter was sealed over 800 years ago.

Children collecting sticks at Morden Hall Park, London

Morden Hall Park - Busy Bumblebees Trail Sat 24 May - Sun 31 August 

Follow this free, self-led trail through the rose garden to learn about Britain’s bees. With flaps to lift, facts to find, and bonus bee challenges, it’s a brilliant way for families to explore nature together.

Children looking through binoculars outside

Morden Hall Park - Great Big Green Week: Bird Watching Sat 7 June 

Join us for Great Big Green Week. Put on your walking boots, grab your binoculars and sharpen your hearing in a search for birds that hang around our park. 11am-12:30pm. Booking essential.

Plan your family day out

A family walking through the vegetable garden at Ham House
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Ham House and Garden 

Head to the Outer Courtyard where little people will love getting stuck into the Mud Kitchen, using imaginative play to create culinary masterpieces. The Wilderness is a wonderful place to explore too, with over a mile of Hornbeam hedges arranged in a maze-like pattern.

A family playing frisbee in the grounds of Osterley Park and House London
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Osterley Park and House 

From bike rides to den building, discover the full range of family-friendly activities and events taking place at Osterley Park.

A family on the bridge at Morden Hall Park, London
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Morden Hall Park 

Explore the natural play area, spot wildlife from the boardwalk and enjoy a family walk at Morden Hall Park, with pushchair friendly routes available. Wander into the second hand book shop for a treasure trove of stories.

A smiling boy rides a red bicycle on a parkland trail

Outdoor activities in London 

There are plenty of ways to get active with all the outdoor activities available at National Trust places in London.

A family walking in the grounds at Osterley Park and House, London

Walking in London 

From acres of parkland at Osterley Park to the meadows, wetlands and woodlands of Ham House, discover where to go for the best walks in London.

Family members sat outside the café at Osterley Park and House, London

Places to eat in London 

Discover some favourite tea-rooms and cafés in London and plan where to stop for a tasty treat on your next adventure

Summer crafts and activities

Making seed bombs at Houghton Mill and Waterclose Meadows, Cambridgeshire
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How to make wildflower seed balls 

Discover how to make your own wildflower seed balls to add some colour to the garden with this step-by-step guide.

Honey and apple scone with jar of honey and two apple fizz drinks on the side
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Honey and apple scones 

Try this fruity twist on a simple scone recipe. Full of grated apple and sweetened only with honey, they're perfect for an indulgent afternoon treat with butter or clotted cream.

Children sit with nets at the rock pools at Giant's Causeway, County Antrim
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Top ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ activities to do in spring 

Spring is the perfect time to get started on our list of ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’. Here are some of the best activities to try, from stargazing to snail racing.

Exterior view of Fenton House and Garden, London. The gardens include an orchard, kitchen garden, rose garden and formal terraces and lawns.

Discover more in London

From thriving wetlands to sprawling estates, intimate spaces and modernist masterpieces, London has it all, if you know where to look.