What’s on this half term in London: 27 May – 4 June
Half term is fast approaching, so we’ve rounded up the top ten things to do in the capital. There’ll be no time for boredom!
1. Star Wars Identities
Explore the best-loved characters of Star Wars in this unique interactive exhibition. The collection includes 200 props, models, costumes and artwork from the films, an interactive identity quest and insightful scientific content. Kids can explore their own identity and discover their inner Star Wars hero.
When: Until 4 September, 10am – 6pm
How much: Adult, £25; child, £15
Where: The o2, Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX
theo2.co.uk
2. Art of Make Believe: Staging children’s stories
This playful exhibition explores how classic stories have been transformed into theatre. Curious kids will have the chance to operate theatre lighting and sound effects, and play with props and costumes.
When: Monday to Saturday, 9.30am
How much: Free!
Where: National Theatre, Upper Ground, South Bank, London SE1 9PX
nationaltheatre.org.uk
3. Tunnel: the archaeology of Crossrail
This exhibition charts a journey beneath London following the Elizabeth line, uncovering the archaeological discoveries found beneath the city streets. The objects on display explore 8,000 years of history and reveal the stories of Londoners from Roman Londinium to the Great Plague of 1665.
When: Until Sunday 3 September, 10am to 6pm
How much: Free!
Where: Museum of London Docklands, No.1 Warehouse, West India Quay, London E14 4AL
museumoflondon.org.uk
4. Go Ape! at Alexandra Palace
Big kids of all ages will be able to unleash their inner Tarzan at the brand new Go Ape in Ally Pally. It features a Tree Top Junior course, where little monkeys can scramble around a challenging series of wobbly crossings. The finale is a 50m zip-wire.
When: Daily, 10am to 4pm
How much: Adults, £33; children, from £18
Where: Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, London N22 7AY
goape.co.uk
5. Make the Future Live
Make the Future Live is a free festival of innovation, featuring the Shell Eco-Marathon Europe, which challenges students to design and build ultra energy efficient cars, then drive them on a purpose-built track. Other attractions include live performances and immersive experiences.
When: Thursday 25 to Sunday 28 May
How much: Free!
Where: Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Stratford, London E20 3HB
queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk
6. Airjump trampoline park
Airjump is the brand new 14,000 square foot trampoline park opening in Orpington this spring. It features a Battle Beam to knock your opponent off, slam-dunk basketball hoops, a giant air bag to throw yourself onto from a tower, a Cardio Wall, as well as a soft-play area for children under five. Classes will be available, including parent and toddler sessions.
When: Open daily, from 10am
How much: £11.95 an hour; 5’s and under, £5 an hour
Where: 5a Lagoon Road, Orpington, Kent BR5 3QX
airjumptrampolinepark.co.uk
7. Footgolf
Make your way around the 18-hole course using a football in groups of four. The object of the game is to get the ball into the hole using only your feet in the fewest number of shots possible. Combine power and precision to score a goal in one! It’s outdoor fun for the whole family.
When: Daily, 12pm to 1.45pm
How much: Adults, £12; children, £6
Where: Lee Valley Golf Course, Meridian Way, Edmonton N9 0AR
0208 803 3611
visitleevalley.org.uk
8. Sheep Week
May half term is a very exciting time at Lee Valley Park Farms – it’s Sheep Week! Expect all the usual fun and frolics, but with a woolly theme, including sheep shearing demos, lamb racing and a chance to bottle feed this spring’s fluffy new arrivals.
When: Saturday 27 May to Friday 2 June, 10am to 5pm
How much: £9 each; under-twos go free
Where: Lee Valley Park Farms, Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 2EF
visitleevalley.org.uk
9. Ocean Invaders: Enter the World of Jellyfish
Immerse yourself in this new sensory experience that will enlighten you to the fascinating and beautiful species of the jellyfish. Explore their life cycle and incredible survival skills, then create a digital swarm and be surrounded by an invasion!
When: Daily, from 10am
How much: Adults, from £25.50; children, from £20.40; under-threes go free
Where: Sea Life London Aquarium, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7PB
sealife.co.uk/london
10. Sensational Butterflies
Experience the magic of one of nature’s most fascinating cycles in this outdoor exhibition. Get up close with species such as the Swallowtail, Blue Morpho, Moon Moth and more, with live specimens, games and displays.
When: Until Sunday 17 September, from 10am
How much: £6.50 each; family ticket, £22; under-fours go free
Where: Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD
0207 942 5000
nhm.ac.uk