Half-term is the perfect time to turn ordinary days into little adventures! Luckily, London’s packed with half-term activities, and travelling by river makes every outing special.
Keep reading to explore what’s on this October half-term and discover how you can make the most of your week.
Discover the calm of the Chelsea Physic Garden
Nearest Pier: Cadogan or Battersea Power Station
For a peaceful family day surrounded by nature, head to the Chelsea Physic Garden, where you’ll find a range of workshops and experiences to enjoy.
Young explorers can set off on The Hidden Wonders Hunt, a trail inspired by Chloe Savage’s The Search for Our Cosmic Neighbours, uncovering hidden treasures and completing a creative drawing challenge along the way.
Budding botanists can also join the Make Your Own Carnivorous Kokedama workshop to craft their own moss ball using carnivorous plants.
Step back in time with Jurassic World: The Experience
Nearest Pier: Battersea Power Station
Have your kids ever dreamt of meeting a T. rex? If so, Jurassic World: The Exhibition is the perfect half-term activity.
Across ten immersive zones, families can walk among gentle giants and fearsome predators in a world that feels straight out of the movies. Perfect for families and fans alike, this immersive adventure brings dinosaurs back to life in a spectacular way.
Experience the thrills and chills of The London Dungeon
Nearest Pier: London Eye (Waterloo)
If your family enjoys a thrill, The London Dungeon delivers the perfect mix of fun and horror. Step into London’s darker past and meet the city’s most infamous characters through live performances and atmospheric storytelling.
This Halloween, Dracula: A Victorian Nightmare joins the line-up, inviting brave visitors to descend into the Count’s eerie crypt, deep beneath the crumbling stones of Kingstead Cemetery.
Celebrate autumn with The Paddington Bear™ Experience
Nearest Pier: London Eye (Waterloo)
The Paddington Bear™ Experience transforms Windsor Gardens into an autumnal wonderland this October half-term.
Help Paddington and the Brown family prepare for the Marmalade Day Festival in this hands-on, child-friendly adventure inspired by the nation’s favourite bear. You can also opt for a Trick-or-Treat upgrade, where your little ones get a pumpkin bucket, tasty treats, and exclusive Paddington Bear ears to take home.
Slow down with Afternoon Tea on the Thames
Located on Embankment Pier.
Take a relaxing break from your half-term activities in London with a riverside treat at the Clipper Lounge EMB. Overlooking the River Thames, our cosy café bar offers a classic family-friendly afternoon tea, the perfect way to unwind between adventures.
Tuck into traditional sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and delicate pastries while watching the boats glide by.
Get creative at the Southbank Centre
Nearest Pier: Embankment or London Eye (Waterloo)
The Southbank Centre is always a go-to for creative things to do in London, and this October half-term is no exception. You can experience the charm of Mog the Forgetful Cat as Judith Kerr’s beloved story leaps from page to stage.
Meanwhile, Alphabet Soup turns The Clore Ballroom into a walk-in art installation, where you can join interactive workshops to create poems and stories inspired by the diverse language of food.
Immerse yourself in The Minecraft Experience
Nearest Pier: Greenland (Surrey Quays)
At The Minecraft Experience, the blocky world millions of kids love becomes something you can actually step inside. Move through seven themed zones and complete team challenges while taking in the incredible visuals.
Using cutting-edge technology, this experience bridges the gap between the digital and physical worlds, making it unforgettable for both first-time explorers and long-time players.
Climb aboard the legendary Cutty Sark
Nearest Pier: Greenwich
Step aboard the Cutty Sark and find out what life was like for sailors on one of the world’s most famous ships. Explore the restored decks and stand beneath the vast hull that once carried tea across the globe.
For those feeling daring, check out the mast climb. Suitable for children aged eight and up (with an accompanying adult), you’ll get unbeatable views across the Thames and a real sense of adventure to top off your half term day out.
Find something for everyone at The O2
Nearest Pier: North Greenwich
For a day packed with variety, The O2 is hard to beat. There are loads of activities and experiences to keep your family entertained, all in one place.
You can take on panoramic climbs across the roof, test your skills at interactive sports, or defy gravity with indoor skydiving. If you’re looking for something a little more laid back, you can roam around the outlet shops or catch the latest blockbuster at the cinema.
Exploring London the easy way
With so much to see and do, deciding how to get around can be the hardest part. Uber Boat by Thames Clippers offers frequent services connecting you to many of London’s top half-term activities along the Thames.
With spacious decks and buggy-friendly access, our state-of-the-art vessels offer a relaxing way to travel. Plus, the Family Hop-on Hop-off deal offers unlimited travel for 2 adults and up to 3 children aged 5–15 (children under 4 travel free), meaning you can make the most of your family day out.
Plan your half-term on the Thames
Half-term is short, but London’s adventures are endless. The easiest way to fit more into each day is to let the Thames lead the way. Start planning your journey today and make this October half-term one to remember.