Half term and Halloween are just around the corner, so there’s no shortage of family fun in the capital this month. We’ve rounded up 20 things to do in October with kids, from spooky after-dark trails and Day of the Dead fiestas to baby-friendly theatre and a landmark Hokusai exhibition. So whether you’re planning a half-term day trip or a rainy-day museum visit, here’s our pick of the best family days out in London this October.
1
Home Song at the Unicorn Theatre
Home Song is a soothing musical experience made for you and your baby. In fact, it weaves together puppetry, interactive soundscapes and a cappella singing. As a result, it’s a gentle first trip to the theatre for the very youngest audiences.
Where: Unicorn Theatre, London Bridge
When: From 2 October
More information: unicorntheatre.com
2
Halloween films at Rooftop Cinema Club Peckham
Celebrate Halloween, Día de los Muertos or simply enjoy a family night at the movies. Rooftop Cinema Club in Peckham is screening family-friendly films that even the littlest ones will love. Also, the rooftop views across London are hard to beat.
Where: Rooftop Cinema Club, Peckham
When: From 3 October
More information: rooftopcinemaclub.com
3
Croydon Harvest featuring the Walnut Fair
This free harvest festival is inspired by the history of Croydon’s Walnut Fair. It celebrates the season by bringing local communities and global traditions together. In addition, it takes place across the town centre, so it’s easy to drop in for an hour or two.
Where: Various locations across Croydon town centre
When: 3 to 4 October
More information: culturecroydon.com
4
Halloween Weird Wonders at the Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions is getting a spooky makeover for its Weird Wonders experience. For example, expect mind-bending optical illusions and eerie decorations. Above all, there are plenty of chances to take some seriously spooky family photos.
Where: Museum of Illusions, London W1T 1BJ
When: 2 to 31 October
More information: moilondon.uk
5
Ravertots family rave at Boxpark Croydon
Go raving with the kids at this daytime family dance party. First of all, the DJs play the best in House, Garage, Drum and Bass and Old Skool club classics. Meanwhile, the little ones can dance just as hard as the grown-ups.
Where: Boxpark Croydon
When: 4 October
More information: ravertots.co.uk
6
Toto at Polka Theatre
Blast off to the moon with Toto, a young donkey with a carrot-filled rocket. This musical adventure is all about never giving up on your dreams. For this reason, it’s a heart-warming pick for young dreamers.
Where: Polka Theatre, Wimbledon
When: From 10 October
More information: polkatheatre.com
7
Jesus Christ Superstar at Theatre Royal Drury Lane
See the award-winning production of Jesus Christ Superstar in the West End. The musical tells the story of the final weeks of Jesus’s life through the eyes of Judas. In particular, it’s a great introduction to big-stage musicals for older children and teens.
Where: Theatre Royal Drury Lane
When: From 16 October
More information: jesuschristsuperstar.com
8
Halloween at Kew
Discover a thrilling after-dark trail full of hidden surprises at Halloween at Kew. It’s one of the most atmospheric ways to celebrate Halloween in London. So wrap up warm and get ready for a few frights along the way.
Where: Kew Gardens
When: From 16 October
More information: kew.org
9
Wallace & Gromit: Fantastic Fungi Trail at Wakehurst
Follow a fun-filled family trail through Wakehurst’s autumn landscape. Along the way, Wallace & Gromit help you discover the fascinating world of fungi. It’s well worth the day trip to Kew’s wild botanic garden in Sussex.
Where: Kew Wakehurst, West Sussex
When: From 17 October
More information: kew.org
10
Mad Scientists Trail: half term at Hever Castle
Embark on the Mad Scientists Trail at Hever Castle this half term. Wander through the grounds in search of wild experiments, curious creations and spellbinding clues. Afterwards, explore the castle itself for a full family day out.
Where: Hever Castle, Kent
When: From 17 October
More information: hevercastle.co.uk
Top tip: half term is the busiest time for family days out, so book ahead for the most popular of our 20 things to do in October.
11
Family Day at the Painted Hall
Mini history lovers can enjoy a family takeover of the Painted Hall. Activity stations invite the whole family to play, learn and create together. Also, the famous painted ceiling is a sight in itself.
Where: Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich
When: 18 October
More information: ornc.org
12
Hokusai: Thirty-Six Views of Mt. Fuji
Hokusai’s Thirty-Six Views of Mt. Fuji arrives in London for the first time. In fact, it’s one of the most anticipated exhibitions of the year. Because the series includes the famous Great Wave, it’s a brilliant way to introduce children to Japanese art.
Where: Dulwich Picture Gallery
When: From 20 October
More information: dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk
13
Halloween at Blenheim Palace
Blenheim Palace has a brand-new, after-dark Halloween trail. Head out on a daring journey where every twist reveals something spooktacular. As a result, it’s the perfect half-term treat for brave young explorers.
Where: Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire
When: From 22 October
More information: blenheimpalace.com
14
Disney Junior Cinema Club
Sing, dance, move and play along with your favourite Disney Junior characters. This interactive cinema club is screening at cinemas across the UK during half term. So little ones don’t need to sit still for this one!
Where: Cinemas across the UK
When: 24 to 31 October
More information: disney.co.uk
15
Day of the Dead at The Yards
Enjoy a vibrant Day of the Dead fiesta in Covent Garden. Similarly, free live entertainment and spooky activities are on the agenda. In addition, children can follow a Calavera Skull Trail through The Yards.
Where: The Yards, Covent Garden
When: From 24 October
More information: theyardscoventgarden.co.uk
16
Creepy Crawly Encounters at Fulham Pier
Meet scorpions, giant millipedes, tarantulas and other incredible creatures. Above all, these interactive Creepy Crawly Encounters are perfect for curious young naturalists. Of course, the bravest can get up close to the minibeasts!
Where: Fulham Pier
When: 27 October
More information: fulhampier.com
17
Day of the Dead Family Festival at the Horniman Museum
Celebrate Mexico’s most iconic cultural tradition at the Horniman Museum. The Day of the Dead Family Festival features live performances, craft activities, food and colourful displays. Finally, it’s a joyful way to round off Halloween.
Where: Horniman Museum, Forest Hill
When: 31 October
More information: horniman.ac.uk
18
The Magic Garden at Hampton Court Palace
Let your imagination run wild in the Magic Garden, a secret playground hidden in the palace grounds. Here, children come face to face with mysterious mythical beasts. Also, it’s open all month, so it’s a great standby for a free afternoon.
Where: Hampton Court Palace
When: All month
More information: hrp.org.uk
19
Music in the Museum at London Transport Museum
Hear live performances from young classical and jazz musicians at Music in the Museum. At the same time, you can explore the stories of London and its transport history. Overall, it’s a relaxed way to enjoy live music with children in tow.
Where: London Transport Museum, Covent Garden
When: 2, 9 and 16 October
More information: ltmuseum.co.uk
20
Peace Doves at the Old Royal Naval College
Head to a dove-making station at the Old Royal Naval College. Here, you can make a dove for a major new art installation by Peter Walker. As a result, the whole family can say they’ve been part of the artwork.
Where: Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich
When: All month
More information: ornc.org
That’s our round-up of 20 things to do in October in London. For even more family days out, browse our what’s on guide.
Details for all 20 things to do in October were correct at the time of writing. Always check dates, times and prices directly with venues before travelling.
