From enchanting theatre shows to charming afternoon teas, here’s our top pick of the things to do in the summer holidays in Mayfair, Belgravia and beyond
Words: Luciana Bellini
The summer holidays are now upon us, which means every parent across the land is frantically hunting for the best things to do in London with kids. Luckily, there’s plenty to keep little ones entertained, from theatre shows and afternoon teas to a double decker bus experience curated by one of the world’s most famous toy stores. Read on to discover our edit of the best things to do over the summer holidays in Mayfair, Belgravia, Chelsea and beyond.
Zog at Cadogan Hall
2 – 23 August
Those hunting for the best things to do in London with kids over the summer holidays should make a beeline for Cadogan Hall in Chelsea, which this August is hosting a stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson’s much-loved Zog book. The feel-good musical tells the tale of the accident-prone little dragon who’s on a mission to win a coveted gold star from his teacher, and is a delight for kids and adults alike.
Royal Afternoon Tea at The Rubens at the Palace
2 – 23 August
To coincide with Zog at Cadogan Hall, The Rubens at the Palace is running a special offer where families can enjoy 15% off their popular Royal Afternoon Tea. Served overlooking the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace, younger guests will love the Little Prince & Princess Afternoon Tea, which features freshly prepared sweet treats, a mini crown to wear at the table and a limited edition Zog-inspired macaroon. With the hotel just 15 minutes from Cadogan Hall, it’s the perfect way to follow up the performance.
Luminiscence at Westminster Cathedral
Until 27 September
Westminster Cathedral becomes the stage for one of the capital's most striking experiences this summer. Luminiscence combines spectacular project mapping, live performances by the Lux Aeterna choir and narration from Paddington and Downton Abbey star Hugh Bonneville. A celebration of London's history through a captivating visual display projected across the cathedral's neo-Byzantine architecture, kids will love the stunning projections – and might even learn something along the way.
Kensington Gardens Elfin Oak restoration
Ongoing
If you’re looking for the best free things to do in London with kids, a trip to Hyde Park is always a great option. That’s doubly true this summer, as one of Kensington Gardens’ most beloved hidden treasures has just been restored to its former glory. The Grade II-listed Elfin Oak, near the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground, has undergone specialist conservation work to preserve its collection of miniature fairies, elves, witches and woodland creatures. Twin it with a visit to the Diana Memorial Fountain for a splash around if the weather’s hot.
Moana Afternoon Tea at London Hilton on Park Lane
Until 24 September
She’s one of the best-loved Disney princesses, and with the new live-action Moana film in cinemas now, the adventurous Wayfinder has roared back into children’s hearts. This enchanting Moana-inspired afternoon tea is the perfect way to cap off a cinema trip over the summer holidays. Held at the hotel’s Park Corner Brasserie, the tea gives the classic Mayfair ritual a playful island twist, complete with a treasure chest of tropical creations and sweet treats.
Our Story with David Attenborough at the Natural History Museum
Until 30 August
This summer is your last chance to catch Our Story with David Attenborough at the Natural History Museum, a must for nature-loving kids. The immersive cinematic experience sees walls and floors burst into life to showcase the beauty and wonder of our planet. Blending footage of the natural world with cutting-edge animation and presented by Sir David Attenborough, it’s a truly breathtaking experience. Catch it while you can.
Be Like Blippi at the Arts at Marble Arch
3 – 30 August
Mayfair’s newest theatre – and the Arts Theatre's new temporary home – is hosting toddler favourite Blippi this summer. The Be Like Blippi tour sees the much-loved character come to London, bringing his unique brand of high-octane fun with him. The show offers a one-of-a-kind interactive adventure featuring fan-favourite songs like “The Excavator Song,” “Monster Truck,” “Dino Dance” and “Curious Like Me”. Little ones will be in heaven.
Hamleys Puppet Party Bus
First three weekends in August
This summer, hop aboard the Hamleys Puppet Party Bus, which sees the world-famous toy store take over a classic Routemaster bus. A partnership between Hamleys and The Puppet Company, the UK's leading puppet manufacturers and performance specialists, the 90-minute experience will tour some of the capital’s most famous landmarks before ending up at Hamleys’ famed Regent Street store. Along the way there’ll be plenty of live entertainment, puppetry and audience participation, as well as your very own puppet to take home.
Sticks & Cones in Marylebone
Ongoing
This new neighbourhood spot has quickly become a local favourite thanks to their made-from-scratch ice lollies and cones. Founded by Marylebone mum Petra Tanos after she was fed up of having to feed her kids prepackaged lollies from the corner shop, the store only uses premium ingredients sourced mainly from B Corp-certified suppliers – think fresh cream and milk from The Estate Dairy, chocolate from Original Beans and fresh fruit from Natoora. It’s the ideal place for a summer holiday pick-me-up.
