Unlock the Ultimate Guide: 43 FREE and FUN Things to Do in London with Kids This October

Check out this in-depth guide showcasing over 49 FREE and fun activities for kids in London this October, with options for the October half term included. Remember to share this valuable resource with your friends, family, school communities, and on Facebook groups.

If you receive specific benefits such as Universal Credit, you may want to explore our blog post. It provides information on accessing significantly discounted tickets for various attractions, including London Zoo and the London Transport Museum.

If you’re looking for places where kids eat FREE/£1 then check out this post.

1. Build a LEGO® Spider and Take It Home!

Join the fun and build your very own LEGO® Spider on 26th October from 10 AM to 12 PM or 27th October from 12 PM to 2 PM. Supplies are limited and available on a first come, first served basis—so don’t miss out! Perfect for kids aged 6 and up. One LEGO® Spider per person, while stocks last. Activity runs on 26/10 and 27/10 only

Find your nearest LEGO store here.

2. October Half Term: Play in the City

From Thursday, 31st October to Saturday, 2nd November, head to Young V&A between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM for hands-on activities that explore how we play in our city. Join the Play Champions team to transform the Community Room into a growing cityscape using cardboard, paper, and more. Build playful structures, explore sound, space, and enjoy even more creative fun! More info here.

Address: Cambridge Heath Rd, Bethnal Green, London E2 9PA – Bethnal Green is the nearest station.

3. Halloween Face Painting

Get into the Halloween spirit with complimentary face painting on the 3rd floor at John Lewis Stratford City! Both kids and adults are welcome to join the fun on 26th October from 2 PM to 4 PM. Ask in-store for more details!

Address: Montfichet Road, Olympic Park East London LONDON E20 1EJ

4.Uniqlo Tate Play Holiday Make Studio: The Joy of Not Knowing

From Saturday, 26th October to Sunday, 3rd November, the East Tank at Tate Modern will be transformed into a magical space where art and nature intertwine in delightful ways. This enchanting experience invites creativity, allowing children to build secret dens, leave their mark on dynamic projections of wild environments, and craft whimsical costumes from recycled materials. Find more info here.

Address: Bankside, London SE1 9TG

5. Woven Wonders – Museum of London Docklands

Unfortunately, one of the few Black History Month events for families this October is a special arts and crafts workshop celebrating this important occasion. Participants will draw inspiration from fashion pieces in the collection to weave their own artwork using raffia and personalize it with unique decorations. Led by artist-educator Anne Ogazi, this creative session encourages imaginative expression. This activity is suitable for children aged seven and older. Book here.

Address: No 1, West India Quay, Hertsmere Rd, London E14 4AL. Canary Wharf and West India Quay are nearby stations.

6. FREE bowling at BrewDog Waterloo for KIDS

From 28th October to 1st November, book your lanes via “EARLY PINS: HALF TERM” to take advantage of free bowling for kids aged 11 and under when you book before 12:00 PM. After 12:00 PM, enjoy 30 minutes of bowling, complete with a scavenger hunt and an ice cream token! Adults can bowl at off-peak prices but must pre-pay to secure their lanes. Don’t miss out on this fun half-term activity! Book here.

Address: Unit G, Waterloo Station, 01 The Sidings, London SE1 7BH

7. Visit the Apple Store

Discover free and entertaining activities for kids in London at Apple’s workshops, where you can create your own emoji, code your first app, or compose a theme song. While these workshops are entirely free, remember to secure your spot by booking in advance.

The diverse London locations, including Battersea Power Station, Regent Street, Brompton Road, White City, Brent Cross, Stratford City, Bromley, Regent Street, Bentalls Centre, and Covent Garden, offer convenient options. For more details and to book a session, check the provided link.

Address: multiple locations

8. Virgin Media Gamepad at The O2

Located at The O2 in London, Gamepad offers the finest in the gaming world. It’s open to everyone for free, but if you’re an O2/Virgin Media customer, you can secure a spot through the O2 Priority app. Additional details can be found here.

Address: Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX. The nearest station is North Greenwich.

9. Art In The Docks

Every Saturday morning, your children can join a free art class. It’s free to join, suitable for all ages, and all materials and equipment will be provided. Please note that there is a maximum capacity of 30 for this event, and it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The class runs from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and is ongoing. Find more information here.

Address: 25 Shackleton Way, London, E16 2XJ. Gallions Reach is the nearest station.

10. Biodiversity Family Festival

Visit the Natural History Museum from 26th October to 3rd November for family-friendly activities celebrating biodiversity! Enjoy LEGO® building workshops, engaging talks about the natural world, and opportunities to meet scientists. Explore the newly opened gardens, say hello to Fern the bronze Diplodocus, and join hands-on activities led by learning volunteers. It’s the perfect adventure for kids and families! More info here.

Address: Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD. The nearest station is South Kensington.

11. Little Swifts – RAF Museum

The RAF museum offers frequent, FREE engaging sessions tailored for preschoolers (ages 2-5), featuring arts and crafts, games, stories, and songs. Reserve your spot ahead of time here. Book here.

Address: Grahame Park Way, London NW9 5LL. The nearest station is Colindale.

12. Polka Theatre

The Polka Theatre not only presents fantastic paid shows throughout the year but also offers a café and both indoor and outdoor play areas that are open to everyone, free of charge. Find the opening times here.

Address: Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB. Wimbledon and South Wimbledon stations are both a short walk away.

13. FREE Paddlesport

Experience paddlesport for FREE! Designed for young Londoners aged 8 to 17, these sessions run every Sunday from February 4 to October 27, 2024, 2pm to 3.30pm, even during school holidays. Perfect for beginners, with a maximum of 16 spaces per session. Be sure to pre-book! Led by a skilled British Canoeing instructor team at The Pirate Castle, Gilbey’s Wharf, Oval Road, London. Contact info@thepiratecastle.org or call 020 7267 6605 for details and to reserve your spot.

14. Black History Month activities at the National Maritime Museum

During Black History Month, the National Maritime Museum offers a couple of engaging activities, including “Games Without Wires,” where you can enjoy a variety of board games hosted by the Caribbean Social Forum, and “Josephine’s Incredible Journey,” featuring puppet theatre performances, workshops, and drop-in sessions suitable for all ages. For more details on these events and other half-term activities, click here.

Address: Romney Rd, London SE10 9NF

15. Gabby’s Dollhouse Party Trail.

I know this isn’t in London, but it’s close by—and with Gabby’s Dollhouse being so popular, I had to include it! Head to Bluewater this October half term for the Gabby’s Dollhouse Join The Party Trail. This free, fun-filled character trail is based on the hit DreamWorks show and includes cute photo opportunities and a digital mobile game. Plus, on weekends, you can meet Gabby in person! The event runs from 26th October to 3rd November. Don’t miss out!

Address: Bluewater, Dartford, Greenhithe DA9 9ST

16. Bosch’s Mudslide at Mudchute Farm

Bosch is offering families a muddy adventure this half term with a free giant mudslide at Mudchute Farm. Kids aged 4 and up can enjoy the 9-metre-long slide, while families explore the farm’s 32 acres, meet animals, and learn about conservation—all without leaving the city. Mudproof overalls are available for both kids and adults, so everyone can join in the fun. Book here.

Address: Mudchute Park and Farm Pier Street London E14 3HP

17. Family studio: cut-out worlds

At this Family Studio, artist Eva Jonas will guide families in constructing familiar scenes inspired by the Architecture Window exhibition. Using cardboard, wooden dowels, and blocks, participants can create models of everyday views—whether from a bedroom, school, or bus window. Join the creative fun on 27th October 2024, with sessions running from 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm. No booking required—just drop in!

Address: 6 Burlington Gardens, London, W1S 3ET

18. Family Day: make your mark – National portrait Gallery

On 29th October 2024, from 11:00 to 16:00, the National Portrait Gallery invites families to get creative this half term by exploring stories of people who’ve shaped Britain. Through fun, playful mark-making activities, participants can share the impact they’d like to make on the world. BSL interpretation will be available for all activities. The event is free and drop-in, but spaces are limited, so it’s first come, first served. Find the full programme here.

Address: St. Martin’s Pl, London WC2H 0HE. Charing Cross station is a short walk away.

19. FREE IKEA events

Numerous free IKEA events are happening at various IKEA stores. Explore your local store’s offerings here.

20. Market Explorers Garden Borough Market

Head to Borough Market this October for some free Halloween fun for the kids! On Wednesday 30th and Thursday 31st October, children can enjoy spooky biscuit decorating, arts and crafts, face painting, and more. These exciting activities are designed to inspire primary-aged children to think about the food they eat. Held in a dedicated space within the Market, all activities are free, and no booking is needed. 

Address: Borough Market 8 Southwark Street, London, SE1 1TL

21. Storytime with the author and creator of Rastamouse

On Tuesday, 29th October, join the creator of Rastamouse for a special storytime event at John Lewis, Westfield London! Kids will love this exclusive opportunity to hear tales of their favourite reggae-loving, crime-fighting mouse, brought to life by series creator Michael. The 45-minute session will be filled with fun, music, and the introduction of a brand-new Mouseland character. Attendees can also get their purchases autographed by Michael on the day. Book here.

Address: John Lewis & Partners Ariel Way London W12 7FU

22. Relaxed Mondays – Cartoon Museum

Relaxed Monday events at The Cartoon Museum are tailored for children and young people with autism spectrum conditions or sensory processing differences. It is free, but it’s crucial to book in advance. Each participant requires their own ticket, and at least one member of your group should be between 5 and 25 years old with autism spectrum conditions or sensory processing differences. The drop-in workshops are geared towards ages 8-14, and refreshments will be provided during the events. Book here.

Address: 63 Wells St, London W1A 3AE

23. Halloween at Old Operating Theatre Museum

This October Half Term, the Old Operating Theatre Museum & Herb Garret will host a series of family workshops from the 28th to the 30th of October. On the 28th, workshops will be specifically tailored for SEN families, providing an inclusive and engaging experience. Book here. 

Address: Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret, St Thomas’ Church, 9a St Thomas Street,
London, SE1 9RY

24. Open the Disney Store

Unfortunately, there’s only one Disney store left in London. However, here’s something cool you can check out: did you know that every morning, the Disney store starts its day in a super magical way?

The lucky first person in line gets to use a giant key to open the store and even receives a smaller version of the key to keep! You can’t pre-book this experience. The store is open Monday to Saturday from 9 am and on Sundays from 12 pm. For more, check out my TikTok for a short but adorable glimpse of this experience.

Address: 350-352 Oxford St, London W1C 1JH

25. Halloween At The Farm

Get ready for a week of spooky family fun this October half term at The Farm! From 26th October to 3rd November (excluding Monday 28th), you can drop by anytime between 10:30am and 4pm—no need to pre-book. Entry is free, with a suggested donation on arrival. Find more info here.

Address:  Vauxhall Farm 165 Tyers Street London SE11 5HS

26. Kentish Town City Farm – Eat Your Pumpkin

On Tuesday, 29th October, from 4-6pm, Kentish Town City Farm will host a fun-filled pumpkin appreciation event. Celebrity chef Adrian Watters will demonstrate a delicious recipe using pumpkins straight from the farm’s own patch. Guests are invited to bring a Halloween pumpkin to carve or decorate, along with any carving tools and an ice cream scoop if available. To reserve a spot, email Miriam at miriam@ktcityfarm.org.uk.

Address: 1 Cressfield Cl, London NW5 4BN

27. FREE gaming at Samsung KX

Experience the ultimate gaming immersion at one of Samsung’s four gaming stations featuring cutting-edge technology that brings you closer to reality than ever before. Don’t miss the cool gaming bus, available for everyone to use for free. Be sure to check the website for more details.

Address: 1 Stable St, London N1C 4DQ

28. The King’s Cross monster family trail

This Halloween, join the free Monster Trail at King’s Cross, where monsters have invaded the neighbourhood! From 15th October to 3rd November, adventurers can help George the cat catch the creatures and send them home. Pick up a map at the Visitor Centre on 11 Stable Street and explore the area, spotting hidden monsters along the way!

Address: Kings Cross, London

29. Spooky Movie Afternoon -Frankenweenie

Kick off the spooky season in style at Merchant Square with an outdoor cinema screening of the classic Frankenweenie on Wednesday, 30th October at 3pm. Families are invited to dress up as their favourite characters or in Halloween-themed attire. Guests can enjoy blankets, hot chocolate, and street food while immersing themselves in the magical ambiance of Tim Burton’s film. Seating is first come, first served, so bring a picnic blanket if needed.

Address: Big Screen Merchant Square Paddington London W2 1JX

30. October half term: Creepy crafts – Bank Of England Museum 

From Monday, 28th October to Friday, 1st November, visitors to the Bank of England Museum can scare off any thieving hands by decorating their very own spooky and gruesome money box! Inspired by the hair-raising finds in the museum’s collection, this free, drop-in activity is suitable for ages 5 and up.

Address: Bank of England Threadneedle Street, London, EC2R 8AH

31. Haliborange Theatre of Dreams

Haliborange is hosting a FREE two-day workshop at the Noho Showrooms in Oxford Circus, London, aimed at nurturing children’s imagination and creativity through theatre. Book here. 

Address: Noho Showrooms 67 Great Titchfield Street London W1W 7PT

32. Discovery Days: Hair raising Halloween

Celebrate Halloween with fun, free activities from 11am to 3:30pm (last entry at 3pm)! Visitors can enjoy creepy crawly games, explore ‘feely boxes’ in the Witches’ Den, discover fascinating facts on the nature trail, learn about bats in The Royal Parks, and listen to a spooky story. Registration is required to join the festivities!

Address: Hyde Park Learning Centre 

33. Halloween at Benjamin Franklin House

Join the fun at Benjamin Franklin House for a spook-tacular afternoon exploring the history of Halloween! Participants will learn about the origins of this festive holiday and create their own Halloween-themed decorations to take home. Discover why we carve pumpkins and wear costumes while crafting some frightfully fun items to adorn coffins! Book here.

Address: Benjamin Franklin House 36 Craven St London WC2N 5NF

34. Spooky Kids T-shirt Printing Workshop

A free Spooky Halloween T-shirt Printing Workshop! Kids aged 5 and up can get creative by designing and transferring their own fun designs onto T-shirts, perfect for trick-or-treating. The workshop includes sketching, cutting shapes from coloured vinyl, and heat-pressing them onto shirts. All the info. 

Address: Arch 182 Shepherd’s Bush Market 182 Shepherd’s Bush Market London W12

35. The Microsoft Experience Centre

Immerse yourselves in the ultimate gaming experience at The Microsoft Experience Centre‘s Xbox Lounge. Add excitement to your Saturdays with the Minecraft Build Challenge for kids aged 8 and above, running from 1 pm to 2 pm! Your kids might even win a cool prize! While the Minecraft gaming challenge requires pre-booking on the website, feel free to walk in at any other time.

Address: 253-259 Regent St., London W1B 2ER

36. Halloween Pumpkin Painting Workshop for 10 to 15 years – Newham

A Halloween Pumpkin Painting Workshop, specially designed for kids aged 10 to 15 years living or studying in Newham! Join us for a fun and creative experience. Book your tickets here!

Address: 517-519 Barking Road London E13 8PT

37. Halloween at the Horniman Museum

Head to the Horniman Museum for a day of free Halloween fun! Join the Curiosity Tour at 11:30am and 1:30pm, meeting by the main entrance for ages 8 and up. From 12 to 1pm, enjoy “Bubbles on the Bandstand” on the Bandstand Terrace—weather permitting. Then, show off your fancy dress and dance moves during the Spooky Dance-Off from 2 to 2:30pm in Gallery Square, featuring a Halloween playlist and the chance to win prizes. No need to book—just drop in for a day filled with music, witch-themed tours, and more!

Address: 100 London Rd, London SE23 3PQ

38. Pip and Posy come to visit Waterstones, Westfield London!

Pip and Posy are coming to Waterstones, Westfield London on Wednesday, 30th October 2024! Starting at 11:00, step into their playful world with a magical meet and greet, as Pip and Posy make appearances throughout the day.

Address: Unit SU121 Westfield, Ariel Way, London W12 7GF

39. FREE Pet’s At Home workshops

Pets At Home typically offers FREE workshops for kids during the school holidays. Keep this link saved and regularly check it for updates.

40. The Emperor of Rock storytelling – The Museum of London Docklands

Immerse yourself in a storytelling adventure tailored for kids aged 5 and up. Follow Sadie, a seamstress from the Swinging Sixties East End, as she strives to design a dazzling costume for ‘The Emperor of Rock’. Find more info here. Also at The Museum of London Docklands your kids can take part in a fashion show, handle object from their fashion archives and even create their own clothes using an iPad. There’s lots of free fun happening this May.

Address: No 1, West India Quay, Hertsmere Rd, London E14 4AL

41. Build a LEGO® Rangoli and take it home with you!

Head to Westfield White City on Saturday, May 25th and Sunday, May 26th starting at 12pm for a chance to meet the Gruffalo! Calling all young explorers! Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to encounter the Gruffalo near Next at Level 0. After your meet-and-greet, dive into an adventure with our Nature Hunt Extravaganza! Kids, grab your Nature Hunt sheet and explore the reserve, marking off your discoveries along the way.

42. Halloween Half Term Hideaway

From 26th October to 3rd November, Westfield London and Stratford are hosting free Halloween fun for the family! Enjoy pumpkin decorating, storytelling, and more—no booking required. For details, check out the info for White City and Stratford.

Address: Westfield London and Stratford

43. The Big LEGO® Toy Event at Smyths

Join the fun at The Big LEGO® Toy Event at Smyths Toys Superstores on Saturday, 26th October from 9 AM! Enjoy in-store activities and grab a FREE LEGO® Mini giveaway while stocks last—perfect for kids aged 5 and up. First come, first served!

For more FREE events, make sure you’re following us on instagram and regularly check our stories and October highlight 🙂