February half-term activities in London 2026

Looking for the best February half-term activities in London?  Whether you’re planning energetic days out, creative workshops, or relaxed family adventures, this guide is packed with family-friendly things to do in London during February half-term 2026.

From exciting indoor attractions and hands-on museum experiences to viewing platforms, farms, theme parks and theatre shows, we’ve rounded up a selection of fantastic February half-term activities in London for children of all ages.

*contains affiliate links

In London, February half-term 2026 runs from Monday 16^th February until Friday 20^th February, with many attractions offering special events across the surrounding weekends.

• Imagine Festival at the Southbank Centre – Enjoy London’s leading children’s arts festival, featuring music, storytelling, dance, crafts, and comedy throughout February half term
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter – Experience the Magical Mischief event and discover filmmaking secrets and iconic scenes from the Harry Potter films.
• Hidden London at the London Transport Museum – Explore secret sections of the London Underground, including closed stations, hidden corridors, and secret wartime shelters on a guided tour suitable for children aged over 10.

• Natural History Museum – See life-size dinosaurs and explore galleries with nature, fossils, and the natural world in one of London’s best free museums
• Science Museum – Enjoy interactive exhibitions, hands-on galleries, and inspiring stories of scientific achievements.
• Imperial War Museum – Explore fascinating exhibitions in this interactive gallery which covers years of modern history in an accessible way
• Tate Modern – Discover free exhibitions and family-friendly gallery spaces on the Southbank.
• National Maritime Museum – Take part in free storytelling sessions, singing workshops, and maritime-themed family activities this February half-term
• London Docklands Museum – Shape clay Roman pots, craft  Viking brooches and enjoy half-term family history sessions
• London Transport Museum – Join family tours and workshops uncovering the stories behind London’s transport system.
• Horniman Museum & Gardens – Go on a half term Octonauts adventure at the Horniman Museum, with this free trail starting on 13th February.
• National Gallery – Enjoy a variety of free family craft events, workshops and activities this February half term at the National Gallery

• The London Eye – Enjoy a panoramic views of the capital from one of London’s most popular attractions.
• Shrek’s Adventure! London – Step into the world of Shrek, with live actors, storytelling and interactive fun.
• The Paddington Bear™ Experience– Help Paddington prepare for his Marmalade Day Festival in this immersive experience for younger children.
• Frameless – Lose yourself in the UK’s largest multi-sensory immersive art experience, with works from Dali, Van Gogh, Kandinsky, Rembrandt and many more

Discover more fantastic immersive experiences in London.

• Sealife London – Learn all about turtles and how to protect them at the Turtle-y Terrific half-term event at London’s aquarium.
• London Wetland Centre – Grab your wellies and get stuck into Mudfest this February half-term.  Let your little ones get dirty in this full programme of hands-on muddy activities.
• London Zoo –  Join Vets in Action this February half-term, an immersive 40-minute experience introducing children to animal care and veterinary science.
• Vauxhall City Farm  – Meet friendly farm animals and enjoy all the sights and smells of the countryside in the heart of London.  Entrance is free, but donations are welcome.
• Go Ape – Tackle treetop courses and zip lines at Alexander Palace, whilst enjoying views across London.
• Royal Parks – Explore St James’ Park, Greenwich Park, Richmond Park, and Bushy Park for playgrounds, wildlife and space to roam.

Chessington World of Adventures – A great choice during February half-term for animal lovers.  In addition to close encounters with over 1,000 animals, animal talks and the Sea Life Centre, a small selection of rides are also open.

Legoland Windsor – Enjoy rides, characters, Lego building and shows at this fantastic theme park for younger children.

London Dungeon – A thrilling, interactive attraction with stories from London’s darker history. Suitable for older children and teens.

Discover more popular theme parks near London.

• Prison Island – Work as a team to complete physical and mental challenges in this new immersive adventure experience.
• BFI IMAX – Watch the latest films on the UK’s biggest screen for a fully immersive cinema experience.
• Leake Street Arches – Admire the cool graffiti and street art on London’s longest legal graffiti wall beneath Waterloo Station
• Paradox Museum – Explore mind-bending optical illusions and interactive exhibits.
• The Chimney Lift – Ascend 109 metres to the top of the north-west chimney at Battersea Power Station for an epic viewing experience over London.

More ideas for things to do in London with teenagers.

• Tower of London – Help Dennis the Menace and Friends find the pieces of their go-kart in the Beano Mischief event at London’s most famous tower.
• Hampton Court Palace – Step back in time to win over Queen Elizabeth I in this half-term event at Hampton Court.
• Tower Bridge –Climb up inside the towers, then venture across the glass bridge for amazing views over the Thames.
• Houses of Parliament – Take a 90-minute guided tour through Westminster Hall and the chambers of the Commons and Lords.

Read our 2-day itinerary to see how we visited many of the top historical attractions in London.

Taking kids out in London doesn’t have to be expensive.  Here are some places you can go for free at half-term.

• Sky Garden – Visit London’s highest garden and viewing platform
• Horizon 22 – Climb London’s highest free viewing platform for free.
• Covent Garden –  Head to Covent Garden for street performers and entertainment
• Camden Market – There’s always something going on.
• London’s Museums – Many of London’s museums and galleries are free to enter.

There is such a fantastic choice of family theatre and shows in London.  Here are a few of our top picks:

• Matilda the Musical – a family favourite based on the Roald Dahl book.
• Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – an award winning production set in two halves.  Ideal for older children and teenagers
• Hercules the Musical – Inspired by the Disney film, a story set in ancient Greece.
• The Lion King  – the story of Simba, the lion cub and his quest to claim his rightful place on the throne.
• Wicked the Musical – The untold story of the origin of the Witches of Oz and their friendship at university.
• Six – a pop musical about the 6 wives of King Henry VIII
• Who Let the Gods Out – a comedy based on Maz Evans’ popular children’s book, showing at Wimbledon Theatre

Here are some top tips to make your day trip to London with kids stress-free.

• Save money with a London Pass, which will give you discounted entry to over 100 top London attractions
• Book tickets early, especially for popular attractions like Warner Bros. Studio Tour and the London Eye
• Include lots of free activities, such as parks and museums in your itinerary
• Take a packed lunch and snacks to save money on food
• Get to the museums early to avoid the crowds
• Expect the weather to be cold and possibly wet, so dress accordingly and plan indoor activities too

Pin for later or share with a friend:  February half-term activities in London

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links – any purchases you make are unaffected but I may receive a small commission. (Read our full Disclosure Policy)