12 best things to do in London with the kids this half-term

From mesmerising museums to animal encounters, we’ve selected some of the best things to do in London with children, whatever your budget. London is a city so packed with superlative attractions and activities that deciding what to do and where to go next can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Such feelings are amplified if you’re constricted by time, money or when travelling with children. While the UK capital is home to some of the world’s most respected museums, historical sights, award-winning shows and restaurants and all-round vibes, selecting something to keep children of all ages entertained is another matter.

Thankfully, we’ve done the work for you. Forget Madame Tussauds, we’ve selected some of London’s most weird, wonderful and awe-inspiring experiences to ensure both you and your little ones are entertained and inspired by everything this marvellous city has to offer, whatever your budget – and whatever the weather. Tickets from £14; a supervising adult is required for under 18s and there is a minimum height requirement of 1.3 metres.

Mostly free, but donations are encouraged to keep these important spaces operational. Read more: I travelled to Disneyland with an autistic child – this was my family’s experience. From £14. Read more: 8 of the best family adventure holidays in Europe that adults, teens and kids will love. Children under 4 go free; tickets for those aged 4-15 start from £6. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter tickets from £56; free to visit Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross station.

Read more: My American family couldn’t visit me in London, so we went to ‘London’ in Florida instead. Children under four go free, tickets for those aged 5-15 start from £13.60, including entrance to the palace, maze and Magic Garden. Tours from £30; Leake Street Arches free to visit. Read more: This budget family resort with access to the world’s largest ski area is the Alps’ best-kept secret.

One-way ticket costs £6. Read more: The truth about flying long-haul with a baby as a solo parent – it’s not as crazy as you think. From £6. London’s West End is home to some of the world’s slickest theatrical productions, plenty of which are devised with children in mind. Award-winning shows that are certain to enthrall include playwright Dennis Kelly and comedian and artist Tim Minchin’s musical of the classic Roald Dahl novel Matilda, the timeless spectacle of The Lion King, which continues to wow with dazzling sets and puppetry, and Wicked, the hit production that inspired the Tony award-winning film starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande.