Get ready to ignite your family’s February half-term with an exhilarating adventure in London! As the city comes alive with excitement, we’ve curated a list of 25 must-do activities that promise fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories. From thrilling outdoor escapades to captivating cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Join us as we uncover the best of London’s half-term offerings from 12-18 February 2024, ensuring a week packed with excitement and exploration for all ages!
Money-saving tip: Get a Merlin five-in-one London attractions pass and save up to 58% on admission to top attractions, such as the London Eye, Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE, The London Dungeon and Shrek’s Adventure! London. You can choose to visit two, three, four or five attractions within 90 days from your first visit.
Recommended Half Term Activities February 2024:
Turn It Up: The Power of Music (Science Museum)
Looking for an engaging musical activity to take the kids to over February half term in London? Following its immensely successful stint at the Science + Industry Museum in Manchester, Turn It Up: The Power of Music has now arrived at the Science Museum in London.
In this engaging and family-friendly exhibition, visitors have the opportunity to listen to, interact with, and even produce their own music. Through a series of unique interactive displays, attendees can delve into the scientific intricacies and mysteries surrounding music’s profound impact on human beings.
Step into a newly designed musical playground where you can experiment with rhythm, melody, and harmony. Can you discern between compositions crafted by humans and those generated by machines? Test your musical acumen with a Turing test. Encounter Haile, the musical robot capable of playing and improvising alongside human musicians. Witness the groundbreaking MiMU Gloves, developed by Imogen Heap and utilized by artists such as Ariana Grande to manipulate music-making software live on stage. Uncover peculiar and fascinating instruments like the Pyrophone, an organ powered by flames.
From investigating how technological advancements enhance music accessibility for all to exploring how music unlocks emotions and memories, Turn It Up offers an unforgettable, hands-on experience where visitors can experience, reminisce, and contemplate the significance of music in their lives.
Go Ape Half Term Adventures
Prepare for an unforgettable February half term adventure with Go Ape, where outdoor fun and excitement await! Across the UK, Go Ape’s thrilling activities offer the perfect opportunity for families to embrace the great outdoors and create lasting memories. As winter draws to a close, it’s time to let the kids unleash their energy and embark on a day filled with high-flying tree-top escapades and bouncing adventures. Join us as we journey through the treetops and bounce to new heights this half term! Here’s what you can expect:
- Tree-top Adventures: Suitable for kids over 1m tall, featuring tree-to-tree crossings and exhilarating zip wires.
- Treetop Adventure Plus: A step up for children over 1.2m tall and 6 years old, with increased height and speed for added excitement.
- Treetop Challenge: For thrill-seekers over 1.4m tall and 10 years old, offering daring crossings, Tarzan Swings, and epic zip wires across multiple sites.
- Nets Adventure: Perfect for bouncing enthusiasts of all ages, with massive suspended nets and fun games like dodgeball.
Half Term Festival at Natural History Museum
Embark on an exciting adventure with your family this February half term at the Natural History Museum in London! Immerse yourselves in a world of discovery and exploration with a diverse range of activities catering to all ages. Delve into the wonders of nature, uncover the secrets of the museum’s collections, and participate in hands-on experiences that will ignite your curiosity and imagination. Below are the main highlights:
- Family Discovery Zone: Explore different habitats and their inhabitants through creative activities and science shows. Available daily from February 10th to 18th, 11:00-16:00, free entry.
- Spirit Collection Tour: Go behind the scenes to view zoology specimens preserved in spirit. Available on select dates, tickets required.
- Museum Highlights Tour: Discover iconic specimens, including fossils and gorillas. Available on select dates, tickets required.
- Secrets of the Natural History Museum Tour: Explore the museum’s architecture and history. Available on select dates, tickets required.
- LEGO® Build the Change: Build a nature-friendly neighbourhood with LEGO bricks. Available from February 12th to 16th, free entry.
- Jurassic Encounters: Experience an animal handling show featuring modern-day relatives of dinosaurs. Available on February 14th, tickets required.
- T. Rex Show with Teach Rex: Join an interactive journey into the world of T. Rex. Available on February 15th and 16th, tickets required.
- Science of the Natural History Museum Tour: Learn about the museum’s conservation efforts and research. Available on February 17th and 18th, tickets required.
The Big Hide Out at WWT London
If you have ever dreamed of escaping to a tropical rainforest, you will love The Big Hide Out at WWT London. This immersive experience will transport you and your kids to a lush indoor forest, where you can spot colourful birds, butterflies and reptiles, listen to the sounds of nature and learn about the importance of conserving these habitats.
You can also take part in interactive games, crafts and storytelling sessions, or join a guided tour with a wildlife expert. The Big Hide Out is open from 10am to 4pm every day during the half term, and is included in the admission price to WWT London. Don’t miss this chance to explore one of the largest indoor forests in Europe!
Discovery Days in Hyde Park
If you prefer to stay outdoors, why not head to Hyde Park for some Discovery Days? These are free drop-in sessions that run from 11am to 3pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the half term, and are suitable for children aged 3 to 12.
You can join the friendly staff from the Hyde Park Education Centre and learn about the wildlife that lives in the park, from birds and bats to insects and plants. You can also take part in fun activities such as pond dipping, bug hunting, bird watching and nature crafts. Discovery Days are a great way to enjoy some fresh air and get closer to nature in the heart of London.
Orchids at Kew Gardens
If you are looking for a splash of colour and fragrance, you will be delighted by Orchids at Kew Gardens. This annual festival celebrates the beauty and diversity of orchids, with thousands of them on display in the Princess of Wales Conservatory. You can admire stunning floral arrangements inspired by different regions of the world, such as Asia, Africa and South America, and learn about how orchids are adapted to different environments and climates.
You can also join guided tours, talks and workshops, or browse the gift shop for orchid-themed souvenirs. Orchids at Kew Gardens runs from 10am to 5pm every day during the half term and is included in the admission price to Kew Gardens.
LGBTQ+ History Month at the National Maritime Museum
If you are interested in learning more about LGBTQ+ history and culture, you will enjoy the events organised by the National Maritime Museum for LGBTQ+ History Month. You can explore the museum’s collections and exhibitions through a queer lens, and discover stories of LGBTQ+ people who have contributed to maritime history, such as sailors, explorers, pirates and activists.
You can also join family-friendly workshops, performances and tours that celebrate LGBTQ+ diversity and creativity. LGBTQ+ History Month at the National Maritime Museum runs from 10am to 5pm every day during the half term, and is free with a valid museum ticket.
Make History at Eltham Palace
If you love history and architecture, you’ll love Eltham Palace, a stunning medieval palace that was transformed into a glamorous Art Deco mansion in the 1930s. You can explore the lavish rooms, gardens and grounds, and learn about the fascinating lives of the Courtauld family who lived there.
During the half term, you can also join in some special activities, such as dressing up as a medieval knight or a 1930s socialite, making your own coat of arms or Art Deco jewellery, or taking part in a historical treasure hunt.
Half-term at the Horniman Museum
The Horniman Museum is always a great place to visit with kids, but this half term, they have some extra special attractions to offer. Don’t miss the Brick Dinos exhibition, where you can see amazing models of dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures made from LEGO® bricks. You can also explore the colourful world of Elmer and friends, a retrospective of David McKee’s illustrations featuring his famous patchwork elephant. And of course, you can enjoy the museum’s permanent collections of natural history, anthropology, musical instruments and more.
Design workshops at the V&A & Young V&A
If you have a budding designer or artist in your family, why not take them to one of the design workshops at the V&A or Young V&A? The V&A is the world’s leading museum of art and design, and they offer a range of workshops for different ages and interests. You can learn about fashion, textiles, ceramics, jewellery, architecture and more. The Young V&A is a dedicated space for children and young people aged 5-17, where they can discover their creative potential and have fun with hands-on activities.
Sky’s the Limit at the Royal Air Force Museum
For an action-packed day out, head to the Royal Air Force Museum and join their Sky’s the Limit event. You can experience what it’s like to fly a plane or helicopter in their flight simulators, watch spectacular aerial displays by professional pilots, learn about the history and technology of aviation, and even meet some real RAF personnel. The museum also has an impressive collection of aircrafts from different eras and countries, as well as interactive exhibits and games.
Water Warriors at the London Museum of Water & Steam
If you love water and steam, you’ll love the London Museum of Water & Steam. This museum tells the story of how London got its water supply, from ancient times to modern days. You can see working steam engines, pumps and turbines, as well as explore the underground tunnels and wells that were used to transport water. You can also take part in their Water Warriors event, where you can learn about water conservation, make your own water wheel, and have a splash in their water playground.
Dressed to Deliver at the Postal Museum
The Postal Museum is a great place to discover the history and stories behind one of the world’s oldest postal services. You can see rare stamps, letters and artefacts, ride on the Mail Rail underground train, and play in the interactive Sorted! gallery.
For the half term, you can also enjoy a special exhibition called Dressed to Deliver, which showcases the uniforms and costumes worn by postal workers throughout history. You can see how fashion and function have changed over time, from Victorian postmen to modern delivery drivers. You can also try on some of the outfits and accessories, and take part in a postal-themed catwalk show.
Meet the characters at the Cutty Sark in Greenwich
The Cutty Sark is a historic sailing ship and the fastest of its time. Now an award-winning visitor attraction in Greenwich, you can discover its history, features and stories at the Royal Museums Greenwich. But that’s not all! You can also meet some of the colourful characters from the ship’s past and hear astonishing stories about life at sea in the age of sail. From the captain to the cook, from the stowaway to the tea merchant, you’ll get to interact with them and learn about their roles and adventures on board the Cutty Sark. This is a great opportunity to bring history to life for your kids and have some fun along the way!
The Cutty Sark character sessions run on weekends and Fri-Mon in school holidays, at 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm. They are included with the entry ticket to the ship, which costs £18 for adults and £9 for children. You can also buy a Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass and get access to both Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory Greenwich for £25 for adults and £12.50 for children.
Children’s Theatre at Finchley Arts Depot
If you’re looking for some quality entertainment for your kids, why not check out the children’s theatre programme at Finchley Arts Depot? This is a multi-purpose cultural centre located in North Finchley, which offers a variety of shows for all ages and interests. Whether you’re into comedy, drama, musicals or puppetry, you’ll find something to suit your taste and budget at Finchley Arts Depot.
Some of the highlights for the February half term in 2024 are:
- Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book: A delightful adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s best-selling book, which takes you on a journey through different stories with Charlie Cook and his favourite characters. Suitable for ages 3+.
- Rachel Creeger: Ultimate Jewish Mother: A hilarious stand-up show by Rachel Creeger, who shares her experiences of being a Jewish mother in modern Britain. Suitable for ages 12+.
- Swingin’ Strings – J.A.M String Collective: A musical extravaganza by J.A.M String Collective, who perform a range of genres from classical to jazz to pop on their violins, violas and cellos. Suitable for all ages.
The tickets for these shows range from £8 to £15, depending on the show and seating. You can also enjoy a bite to eat at the cafe or browse the gallery before or after the show. For more information and booking, visit https://www.artsdepot.co.uk/.
Fashion City & Lunar New Year at the Museum of London Docklands
The Museum of London Docklands is a fantastic place to learn about the history and culture of London’s docks and river. You can see how trade and migration have shaped the city, from Roman times to the present day. You can also enjoy some special events and exhibitions for the half term, such as Fashion City, which explores how London became a global fashion capital.
You can see iconic outfits from different eras, from Georgian gowns to punk jackets, and learn about the designers and influencers who made them. You can also join in some creative workshops, such as making your own fashion magazine or designing your own clothes.
Another highlight at the museum is the Lunar New Year celebration, which marks the start of the Year of the Dragon in 2024. You can join in some festive activities, such as watching lion dances, listening to stories, making lanterns and origami dragons, and learning about Chinese traditions and customs.
Solar-powered fun at Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see for any visitor. You can walk across the high-level walkways, enjoy stunning views of the city, and visit the Victorian engine rooms where you can see how the bridge was powered in the past. For the half term, you can also learn about how Tower Bridge is now powered by solar energy, thanks to a recent installation of solar panels on its roof.
You can find out how solar power works, how it benefits the environment, and how it helps keep Tower Bridge running. You can also take part in some solar-themed activities, such as making your own solar-powered car or windmill or playing with solar toys and gadgets.
Imagine Children’s Festival at Southbank Centre
If you have creative kids who love books, music, theatre and art, then you won’t want to miss the Imagine Children’s Festival at Southbank Centre. This annual festival celebrates the best of children’s culture and offers a range of workshops, performances, exhibitions and activities for all ages.
You can join your favourite authors and illustrators for storytelling sessions, learn new skills like puppetry or animation, enjoy live music and comedy shows, or explore interactive installations and games. The festival runs from 10 to 24 February 2024 and is free to enter, but some events may require booking in advance.
Seahorse Saviours at Sea Life London
If you’re fascinated by the underwater world and want to learn more about its amazing creatures, then head to Sea Life London for their Seahorse Saviours event. This special event is part of their mission to help seahorses continue to live safely in our oceans.
You can meet their adorable gentoo penguins, see their impressive collection of seahorses and pipefish, and take part in challenges and quizzes to find out how you can protect these endangered animals. You can also book a VIP penguin experience to get closer than ever to these cute birds. The event runs from 10 to 24 February 2024 and is included in your ticket price. You can book your tickets online and save up to 20%.
Colonel Blood & the Theft of the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London
If you’re looking for some historical drama and adventure, then don’t miss the chance to witness one of the most daring heists in British history at the Tower of London. In 1671, Colonel Thomas Blood, a notorious Irish adventurer, attempted to steal the Crown Jewels from the Tower with his gang of accomplices.
Disguised as a clergyman, he managed to get close to the jewels but was caught as he tried to escape with them. In this fun, family-friendly costumed event, you can find out what he was planning, how he was caught, and what happened to him afterwards. You can also see the Crown Jewels themselves in their secure vault and learn more about their history and significance. The event runs from 10 to 18 February 2024 and is free with your admission ticket. You can book your tickets online and save up to £6 per person.
Chinese Astronomy: Lunar New Year Special at the Royal Observatory Greenwich
If you’re interested in the stars and space exploration, then you’ll love this live planetarium show at the Royal Observatory Greenwich. This show explores topics in ancient and modern Chinese astronomy, including the Sun, Moon, stars and space exploration. A Royal Observatory astronomer will guide you through the show and answer your questions.
You’ll also get a chance to see the Great Equatorial Telescope, the largest of its kind in the world when it was built in 1893. The show runs on selected dates throughout the year, including 3 February 2024 for Lunar New Year. The show lasts 45 minutes and costs £10 for adults and £5 for children. You can book your tickets online or on site.
Women at Work at the London Transport Museum
Celebrate the achievements of women in transport and engineering at the London Transport Museum‘s Women at Work exhibition. Discover the stories of pioneering women who broke barriers and challenged stereotypes in the male-dominated fields of transport and engineering.
See objects, photographs and artworks that showcase their contributions to London’s transport network, from driving buses and trains to designing bridges and tunnels. You can also take part in interactive activities, such as building a bridge, designing a poster or dressing up as a transport worker. The exhibition is suitable for all ages and is free for kids under 18 .
The Queen’s spy mission at Hampton Court Palace
Step into the shoes of a Tudor spy and help Queen Elizabeth I uncover a plot against her at Hampton Court Palace. Follow clues, crack codes and meet characters from the past as you explore the palace and its gardens.
You’ll need to use your wits and skills to complete your mission and save the queen from danger. The Queen’s spy mission is a fun and immersive way to learn about Tudor history and enjoy the beauty of Hampton Court Palace. The activity is included in the palace admission ticket and is suitable for ages 5-11 .
Explore, Build, and Play at the National Gallery
Let your imagination run wild at the National Gallery‘s Explore, Build, and Play event. Inspired by the gallery’s collection of paintings, you can create your own artworks using LEGO bricks, cardboard, paper and other materials.
You can also play games, listen to stories and watch performances that bring the paintings to life. Explore, Build, and Play is a free drop-in event that takes place in the Sainsbury Wing of the gallery. It is suitable for all ages and abilities.
Shakespeare’s Globe Family Workshops
Discover the magic of Shakespeare’s plays at the Globe Theatre‘s family workshops. Led by professional actors and directors, these workshops will introduce you to Shakespeare’s language, characters and stories in a fun and interactive way.
You’ll get to try out some acting techniques, learn some famous lines and even perform on the Globe stage. The workshops are designed for different age groups, from 5 to 15 years old, and cover different plays, such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Macbeth and Romeo and Juliet. The workshops cost £20 per person and need to be booked in advance.
These are just some of the amazing offers you can find online for London attractions during half term. Don’t miss this opportunity to have a memorable family holiday in one of the most exciting cities in the world.
Have a wonderful February half-term in London!
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