November in the City of London brings an array of festive activities, cultural experiences, and seasonal events. From historic shows to sparkling light displays, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
With Half Term fast approaching, no doubt every parent is scouting out the most fun and engaging events for their children.
We’ve listed eight of the best activities to do in the City of London this February Half Term that are perfect for a day out with the kids (and two more as a bonus, just outside the City).
1. Discover the City of London
There’s nothing better than getting out and about in the fresh air. Explore iconic landmarks and outdoor art trails in the City of London where every statue, street, and experience is a treasure waiting to be discovered. Stop by the City Information Centre, located beside St Pauls Cathedral, to collect a map to guide you on your explorations!
City of London Children's Trail: Embark on the City of London Children’s Trail, a captivating adventure that takes you on a journey through the ages. From medieval buildings to towering skyscrapers, iconic landmarks to hidden curiosities, the trail promises excitement at every turn. Grab a free Children's Trail Map & stickers from the City Information Centre near St Paul’s Cathedral for an interactive experience.
Wild about Babies outdoor exhibition: Witness the magic of larger-than-life animal statues by artists Gillie and Marc at Paternoster Square. Discover gorillas, hippos, elephants, Bengal tigers and more.
Sculpture in the City: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Sculpture in the City's 18 outdoor artworks. Embark on a special Family trail around the eastern side of the City, where each sculpture tells a unique story.
FREE Activity. Various TFL stations. Various opening hours.
2. Unleash your creative side
Guildhall Art Gallery: This February half-term, love will be in the air at Guildhall Art Gallery who will be offering free fun family activities as part of their revolving Second Saturday programme. Join the Second Saturday event from 11 am to 3 pm, where Victorian-style card-making awaits your artistic touch.
Free event, booking advised. Saturday 10 February, 11am – 3pm. Nearest TFL stations: St Paul's, Moorgate or Bank.
London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE: Make your own mythical creature this half-term, inspired by the London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE’s temporary art installation DREAM-BRIDGE-OMNIGLYPH by artist Leo Robinson which re-imagines petroglyphs from the Caribbean island of St Vincent and Grenadines. Using a rag-rag weaving technique, colourful recycled fabric and felt, families are invited to create their own mythical creatures.
Free event, booking advised. Wednesday 14 February, 10.30am – 3pm. Nearest TFL stations: Bank or Mansion House.
3. Delve into delicious food
After all of your exploring, you'll be ready for some good grub and we’ve rounded up some of the best places in the City to bring your little ones.
- Nando's: Treat yourself to their legendary Portuguese flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken in a vibrant atmosphere at their restaurant in One New Change.
- Zizzi: Dive into pizza, pasta and all things Italian-inspired while watching your food get prepared in an open kitchen with wood-stone ovens. Also located in One New Change.
- Street Burger: Gordon Ramsay’s Street Burger serves up signature burgers, shakes, and more in One New Change.
- Boom Bap Burger: Serving up mouth-watering burgers in the iconic Leadenhall Market.
- Pizza Express: Pizza and doughballs in the incredible location that is Leadenhall Market makes for a memorable half-term meal out.
- Afternoon Tea at Pan Pacific: Little explorers can enjoy Children’s Afternoon Tea at Pan Pacific, complete with an activity pack and a colour-in postcard sent to a loved one.
Opening hours vary; please check with specific restaurants. Various TFL stations.
4. Join interactive storytelling at the Bank of England Museum
Immerse your family in the fascinating world of the Bank of England with free interactive storytelling sessions. Crafted for children aged 7 to 11, these sessions combine storytelling, drama, and role-play to unveil the mysteries of the Bank’s history. A captivating tale of a gold vault break-in awaits your family's imagination this February half-term.
Free entry. Booking required for storytelling sessions on 13, 14 and 15 February at 11.30am, 1.30pm, and 2.30pm. Nearest TFL station: Bank.
5. Family Film club at the Barbican
Create lasting memories at the Barbican's Family Film Club, featuring "Sirocco and the Kingdom of the Winds" on Sat 10 February, and a relaxed screening of "Song of the Sea" on Thursday 15 February. Enjoy a drawing demo with Rikin Parekh before “Song of the Sea”, making it an engaging experience for the entire family.
Various times. Nearest TFL stations: Moorgate or Barbican.
6. Play a colourful game of indoor crazy golf at Puttshack
Enjoy time together and experience the next-generation of crazy golf at Puttshack. The epic seamless tech-infused elements will have you and the kids truly blown away. Play a 9-hole course, themed on retro gaming, and discover new and exciting features, such as supertubes, bunkers, hazards and more. Perfect for ages 7+.
Mon-Fri 12pm – 7pm for under 18s, Sat+Sun 11am-7pm for under 18s. Nearest TFL station: Bank/Monument.
7. Drive an F1 race car at F1 Arcade
Ignite your family's sense of adventure with the thrilling F1 Arcade. Experience the glamour and excitement of Formula 1® with bespoke full-motion racing simulators, delicious food, and an electric atmosphere. The perfect venue for a family gaming experience until 6 pm, with an 18+ age policy after.
Monday - Friday 12pm – 6pm for under 18s, Saturday 9am-6pm for under 18s, Sunday 10am – 6pm for under 18s. Nearest TFL station: St Paul's.
8. A Family Fairy Tale with BonPoint
Indulge in the magic of Pan Pacific's spa menu with the Bonpoint Beauty Experience—a luxury wellbeing experience designed for children aged 6-16 years. A first in the UK and a unique opportunity for the whole family to experience together.
Monday - Friday, 6.30am - 9pm. Nearest TFL station: Liverpool Street.
Bonus: two more activities just outside the City of London's boundary
- Half-term activities at Tower Bridge
Find out how Tower Bridge is powered by renewable energy sources then harness the beauty and power of the sun by making a sun catcher to put in your window at home. Family activities are drop-in sessions so no need to book. Family activities at Tower Bridge are free with the price of an entrance ticket to go inside.
10 and 17 February, 10am - 4pm. Nearest TFL stations: Tower Hill, Tower Gateway (DLR).
- Discover the story of Colonel Blood and the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London
Step back in time with your family to 1671 and witness the drama unfold at the Tower of London. Colonel Blood and his audacious gang are up to no good, creating a fun, family-friendly costumed event that will intrigue parents and captivate kids alike.
10-18 February, 10.30am - 4.30pm. Nearest TFL stations: Tower Hill, Tower Gateway (DLR).
Plan your journey with Transport for London's Journey Planner.
