Schools are being urged to sign up for the British Nutrition Foundation’s Snack-tember initiative.
It wants to support schools to encourage young people to explore and make healthier choices at school and home and to create sustainable snack habits. Schools and organisations working with young people 5-16 can register for free resources at www.nutrition.org.uk/snack-tember-2025
The loooong holiday beckons… gasp! This break can be joyful and daunting. Showing up for the kids means trading personal space.
If I don’t get mine, I turn into the Grouch — no fun for anyone.
Dates:
In Person: Jul 19, Aug 9 & 16 Online: Jul 24, Aug 20 & 25 In Person: Jul 30, Aug 6, 19 & 28 Online: Jul 24, Aug 20 & 25
Location:
Location: The Latymer (Grammar) School Enfield N9 9TN
Enfield
Fee from £18.75 per paper
Location: Wren Academy North Finchley N12 9HD mocktestmasters.co.uk
Finchley
✔Accesstomocktestquestions&answers
The good news? Self-care doesn’t have to be a silent yoga retreat. It’s the small, consistent acts that matter. For me, it began with a few quiet moments of reading first thing… crucially, before the kid mayhem. Just me and the birdsong, fleetingly.
Not sure where to begin? Start with space. An unhurried cuppa. Noticing how your breath and body feel. Space cultivates clarity.
Lower the bar of expectation until you hit a target regularly. Routine creates rhythm. Rhythm breathes energy. That restoration is a gift to us and our families.
⏺Jed Mitchell is a therapist, formerly with Camden’s Parent and Carer Counselling Service. He now works in private practice where he can be found at www.mindmeanings.com
An investigation into baby food pouches by BBC Panorama has found some fail to meet nutritional needs of babies. Of the 18 products sent for laboratory testing, from Ella's Kitchen, Heinz, Piccolo, Little Freddie, Aldi and Lidl, many were low in essential nutrients such as iron and vitamin C, with some savoury pouches containing less than 5% of an infant's daily iron requirement. Additionally, some fruit pouches labelled “no added sugar” contained high levels of free sugars, exceeding the daily recommended amount for a oneyear-old.
More info: www.bbc.co.uk
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Built to withstand scuffs and scrapes
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Use QR code or apply at familiesmag.co.uk/go
At London Youth Games Community Sport Festival,
fun trying free sports taster sessions and activities in an exciting festival atmosphere! Expect DJs, stage entertainment, competitions and giveaways.
6 July 2025 at Copper Box Arena, E20 3HB. Don’t miss out - sign up today for free! https://LYG-community-sport-festival.eventbrite.co.uk
Follow us on social media and stay up to date, informed and entertained Find us on @familiesnorthlondon Tweet us
Editor: Amanda Greenley 07359 133954
✉ editor@familiesnorthlondon.co.uk
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The Summer holidays beckon and there's never been more on offer for kids. Check out our holiday camp round-up on p5, our fab What's On, or step into the past with our round-up of living history on p4. Want to boost your child's reading over the summer? Find just the questions to ask on p8. Whatever you choose, enjoy! Never miss an issue. Sign up at familiesmag.co.uk/go
Compiled by Tracy Doyle
Up and down the country this summer, families can watch re-enactors at Living History events as they cook, craft, entertain and bring the past to life –perfect for a family day out and no one will even notice they are learning history!
1940s Weekend at The Black Country Museum, Dudley 12-13 Jul. Walk the historic streets of shops, houses and industrial workplaces and experience them brought to life with reenactors, vintage vehicles, historic display, and fascinating stories. www.bclm.com/1940s-weekend
Summer Activities at Beamish Museum, Durham 19 Jul-1 Sep. This world famous open-air museum, tells the story of life in North East England during the 1820s, 1900s, 1940s and 1950s. Find engaging activities across the time periods, and reconstructed buildings. www.beamish.org.uk/whats-on
Steam Engines at Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ironbridge 26-27 Jul & 9-10 Aug. Steam engines will roam the streets of Blists Hill Victorian Town in Shropshire, with miniature steam in July. Larger engines operate at the Steam Gala in August. www.bit.ly/ironbridgelh
Ragged Victorians, Weald and Downland Museum, Sussex
What was life really like for working class folk on the edge of society (and sometimes tipping over)? www.wealddown.co.uk/events/victorian-life
AirHop Trampoline Park offers high-flying indoor fun with thrilling activities and experiences for all ages. Whether you're celebrating or just bouncing for fun, there are sessions for everyone! Toddler Takeover (1-6yrs) provides a safe and exciting bouncing experience, while Family Takeover lets the whole family (1+) jump together. Open Jump is perfect for age 4+. Plus Sunset Sessions at weekends feature disco lights and groovy tunes. Check out these fantastic Summer Offers: Summer Pass – AirHop's biggest offer this summer! Secure FIVE jumps at a super low price to use any time until 5 September. Jump into happy all summer long!
Classic Parties – save 20% on Classic Parties, valid any day of the week! Minimum booking of 12 people.
Midweek Parties – save 20% off midweek parties, making unforgettable celebrations more affordable while keeping all the perks of an AirHop party.
Book your AirHop adventure today! Also applies at Jump In. Book online for the best price and to secure your spot. www.airhop.co.uk
13th Century Battle, Evesham 1-3 Aug. This FREE event features a medieval festival and camp, cookery demos, weapons and medicine, dancing and music, falconry and a parade of mounted knights in armour on Saturday. www.battleofevesham.co.uk
Vikings at Stafford Castle, Stafford 2-3 Aug. Activities include "Have-a-go javelin", "Kiddie-Vike", Talks and demonstrations include large scale battles, weaving, weapons, cooking, games, birds of prey and a children’s workshop. www.bit.ly/staffordlh
Tudor Hands On Event at Kentwell Hall, Suffolk 9-21 Aug See Tudor England brought to life by over 200 living historians, and try some daily tasks: knead bread, learn a dance, churn butter and more. On 23-25 Aug, see over 2,000 years of history in a day, from the Stone Age to the 1970s. www.kentwell.co.uk/handsonhistory and www.kentwell.co.uk/thrutheages2
Living History Civil War Siege Weekend at Bolton Castle 23-25 Aug. Discover life at the castle after the execution of King Charles I, and its eventual surrender. Perfect for families, Living Historians will explain about daily life, arms and armour. Inc with castle entry. www.bit.ly/boltonlh
Kids Week runs from 21 July to 31 August, allowing children ages 17 and under to enjoy over 50 West End shows for free when accompanied by a full-paying adult. There are additional activities with some shows, and no booking fees. For more details, visit www.officiallondontheatre. com/kids-week
and Sunday Schools
Early Stages (4 - 6 yrs) and Main School (6 - 16yrs)
Venue: Henrietta Barnett School, NW11 7BN St Michael’s C of E School, Highgate N6 4BG stagecoach.co.uk/highgate 07956 436028 highgate@stagecoach.co.uk
YATI, the Young Actors Theatre Islington, is offering a fantastic selection of holiday courses this summer, for young people aged 6 to 18 who are passionate about the performing arts.
"All our courses are created to generate maximum fun while building a range of skills and supporting good mental health," said CEO Isobel Smith. "Whether your child is interested in acting, musical theatre, writing or film, we have a course perfect for them."
Courses run 10.30am-5pm Mon to Fri from Jul 21 to Aug 29. Concessions are available, as are free spaces through their StageDoor scheme. Call 020 7278 2101 to find out more. www.yati.org.uk/holiday-courses
Find four fun-filled days of dance, music, creativity, and performance at North London Stars’ Summer Showtime Camp.
It’s perfect for kids aged 4-11 who love to move, create, and shine! Children will learn dance routines, explore characters, make props, and rehearse for a joyful final-day show in costume for family and friends, at Hampstead Garden Suburb Free Church Hall, from August 11-14. No experience needed – just energy and enthusiasm. 50% sibling discount available. www.northlondonstars.com/dancecamp
Wac Arts proudly celebrates 25 inspiring years at The Old Town Hall, NW3, nurturing creativity and community through affordable access to the arts. This summer, join us for two exciting projects designed to ignite young talent. Our Performing & Creative Arts Summer School (July 28–August 15) welcomes children aged 4 to 11 to explore drama, dance, music, and visual arts through unique weekly themes that encourage creative expression around society and culture. Meanwhile, our Play In A Week project (July 28–August 1) offers 12 to 15-year-olds the chance to create and perform a full play in just five days with a professional director. Both projects end with live performances celebrating creativity, confidence, and community spirit. Bursaries available. wacarts.co.uk
Discover a fun-filled full activity summer programme with lots of different activities daily.
Outdoor space for den building, planting, games, and freedom to run. Indoor areas give space for activities like cooking classes, arts and crafts, 3D art and film-making.
Whatever your child is passionate about, or whatever the weather, Moss Hall Playcentre plans for a great summer.
See website for opening hours. Operating for over 25 years as a holiday childcare provider, the camp is registered with Ofsted, as Outstanding/Met and prides itself on its caring and inclusive approach.
For more about the centre in Finchley, great parent feedback and how to book go to www.mosshallplaycentre.co.uk
The Association of British Orchestras (ABO) is campaigning for "An Orchestra in Every School".
It is well-documented that music lowers anxiety and improves academic performance. However, fewer schools are offering Music GCSE and A-Level entries have fallen by 43%. The ABO wants the Government to ensure every child has two hours of weekly music-making until 16.
It envisions every school having access to or creating, an orchestra and highlights the critical role of music in education, culture and communities. More info: www.abo.org.uk
Stage Academy’s Summer of Success! is back — the ultimate performing arts holiday camp for children aged 4 to 16.
Packed with energy, creativity, and confidence-building fun, this week-long experience offers agespecific groups and new daily themes. From dance technique to drama games, puppetry to stage combat, your child will explore a world of imagination and expression. Held at Highgate Primary School from 9.30am to 3.30pm, from 28 Jul-1 Aug and 18–22 Aug, prices start at just £7 per hour when booking a full week. Book as many days as you like — from just one day to the full two weeks — with bigger savings the more you book. 25% sibling discount available. Let your young star shine this summer! stageacademy.co.uk/holiday
Looking for a thrilling, action-packed holiday activity for your child?
Nile Wilson Academy Gymnastics Camps are perfect for children aged 3½ to Year 8. From parkour and aerial circus tricks to juggling, cheerleading, and acrobatic dance, there’s something for every young adventurer. With expert-led sessions in all the above, plus rhythmic gymnastics, games, and even chill-out time, it's a dynamic mix of fun and skill-building. Camps in Muswell Hill and near Alexandra Palace, run 9.30am-4.30pm with flexible drop-off and pick-up times. Little ones under 5 can enjoy our specially tailored Mini Movers Camp, filled with ageappropriate activities and quiet time. It's the ultimate way to keep kids active, engaged, and smiling all summer long. nwga.co.uk
Young photographers are invited to enter Lauderdale House’s Young Photographer Competition. This year’s theme is “Action”. Anyone 25 and under can enter. Entry is free and entrants can submit only one photo, by email. The winning entries will go on display at the community arts and education centre from August 20 to September 19. The closing date is August 8. Find rules of entry here: www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk/whats-on/young-photo-comp
UCS Senior School Frognal, Hampstead NW3 6XH
Baby, Toddler and Early Years music Integrated Music Programme for ages 5-18 ‘Try an Instrument’ sessions
classes too!
This year's Big Butterfly Count spotters will play a crucial role in helping conservation. After last year's count, organiser Butterfly Conservation called on the Government to declare a butterfly emergency as numbers were so low. It wants people to spend just 15 minutes counting butterflies, and then record them. More info, and a downloadable ID Guide at www.bigbutterflycount.org
By Jemma Z Smith
Reading is one of the most valuable skills a child can develop but it’s not just about being able to sound out words or finish a book – it’s about understanding it.
Inference, a skill often spoken about by teachers, means being able to work out what a character is thinking, their reasoning behind decisions and what they might do next. To help children go beyond the basics, a creative approach encourages that allimportant understanding.
When meeting with parents I try to emphasise the benefit of going beyond asking: "Did you like the book?" What other questions encourage your child to reveal how much they have understood?
Firstly, timing is important. Don’t wait until you have finished reading the book to ask questions; make them part of your reading routine. Ask before you read: "what might the character do next?", then, in the middle: "why do you think the character made that choice?" and "what would you do in their shoes?" Then: "did the ending of this chapter surprise you?"
Secondly, encourage your child to ask you these questions too. While we might all long for our child to leave us in peace to actually just read the book to them, their questions provide the chance for you to model inference to them. If they are not asking, try
explaining the book to them, at their level, and say out loud what you hope might happen next.
Thirdly, you don’t have to restrict the questions to fiction books. If your child is reading a poster on the Tube ask them what it is about. Pretend to be too busy to read it and have your child summarise them or ask: "what new fact did you learn?" or "would you recommend this to someone interested in...?" These open-ended questions encourage children to think critically and reflect on what they’ve read.
The type of book matters too. Humorous stories are great for picking apart language and tone. Questions such as: "why is this funny?" or "can you draw this character?" can help children to see why an author has described a scene in a certain way. Adventure books are perfect for discussing cause, effect and characters’ motivations. By tailoring questions to the genre, you help children engage more deeply and develop more sophisticated reading skills. Comprehension is a lifelong skill and developing it doesn’t have to be a chore. By asking thoughtful questions and tailoring conversations to reading material, parents can turn comprehension into something meaningful, enjoyable and confidence-building.
Tech tools and books to support comprehension
The digital world isn’t the enemy of reading; it can support it. Sites like Bookopolis (www.bookopolis.com) allow young readers to log books, write reviews and discover titles based on what others like them are reading. These tools make reading more fun and encourage kids to reflect on what they've read.
Books can be great starting places for discussions around bullying, technology, motivation etc. Asking the right kind of questions can transform reading from a solo activity into a powerful discussion about values. Here are some examples. Fiction. What would you have done differently to solve the problem? Why did the character choose to do this? How would you feel if you were the character? Non-Fiction. Would this be a book that you would share with your friends? Would this book be useful for a school project? Why or why not? Can you explain what you read to someone who’s never heard of this topic?
Graphic Novels. How do the pictures help you understand the story? What emotions do the characters show through their expressions? Is the story told differently from a regular book?
These questions build, prediction, empathy and analysiskey parts of strong comprehension.
Toppsta (www.toppsta.com) is a great UK-based resource where children and parents can leave reviews and browse age-appropriate suggestions. For teens, Goodreads (www. goodreads.com) and #BookTok on TikTok are popular platforms where they can follow authors, create reading lists and even engage with online book clubs.
⏺Jemma Z Smith is Director of The Education Hotel. For further advice, visit www.educationhotel.co.uk
To have your event listed on these pages email editor@familiesnorthlondon.co.uk
Disclaimer: We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out.
SEND sessions Some venues run sessions for children with special needs. See our page at www.bit.ly/FNLsend
Guildhall Family Activities
2nd Sunday of the month and school hols 11am-4pm.
Guildhall Art Gallery and Roman Amphitheatre, EC2V 5AE. Free, best to book. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/events/ second-saturday
How Does It Feel To Be Loved?
Last Sunday 12.00-4.00pm Disco for children and grown-ups. The Phoenix, W1G 0PP. £6, child £6. www.howdoesitfeel.co.uk/hdifkidsdisco.html
Wonderful Wildlife Weekends
Every other Sunday
13 & 27 Jul, 10 & 24 Aug. 1pm-3pm. Camley Street Natural Park, N1C 4PW. 13 & 27 Jul, 10 & 24 Aug. 1pm-3pm. Woodberry Wetlands, N16 5HQ. 20 Jul, 3, 17 & 31 Aug. 1pm-3pm. Walthamstow Wetlands, N17 9NH. All ages. Drop in. Free, donations welcome www.wildlondon.org.uk
Coding Club
Tottenham Community Sports Centre, N17 8AD. See online for details. 8-15 Free. Adult volunteers needed. www.breadlinelondon.co.uk
Interactive Storytelling Tuesdays. Various times. The Woodman N6 5UA, 0-5. From £8.50 parent & child. www.littlesupernovas.com
Library Club
Tuesdays in term time
With reading corner and diverse book-pairing service. 0-13. 3.305.30pm. Hackney Showroom, N4 2BN. Free, drop-in. www.hackneyshowroom.com
Buggy Fit In The Park
Tuesdays
Meet, Broadwater’s Children’s Centre, N17 6HE, 10am for buggy walk around Lordship Rec supported by Tottenham Hotspur Foundation. For parents/carers children in buggies. Free https://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/ the-club/passionate-about-tottenham/our-work
Soft Play Disco
Wednesdays term-time
Hang-out for babies, toddlers and their adults, with soft play and music. Pre-walkers 10-10.45am. 1-2s on the move 11am-12pm. Book. Hackney Showroom, N4 2BN www.hackneyshowroom.com/ easy-rollerz
Storytelling and Music
Weds & Thurs 10am, 11am, 12pm
Check dates. 30 min sessions using musical instruments, 0-4. Royal Albert Hall, SW7 2AP. £6. £1 concs. www.royalalberthall.com
Planet Play
Fridays
Until July 26. Interactive, sensory show. 10am. 0-3. Chickenshed, N14 4P. Adults £10, toddlers/babies free www.chickenshed.org.uk
Angel’s Little Explorers
Fri until Jul 18 10am
Sensory sessions for 6-18ms, 10am, 1-2 ,11am with creativity and puppets. 45 mins. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1 2EH. Adult £15, child £13, Thurs & Fri 4.45pm £12 adult & child. www.littleangeltheatre.com
Basketball Session
Sat 12pm 17-25, 1pm 10-16
No experience necessary. With qualified coaches, at Waltham Cross Playing Fields Car Park, EN8 7LX. Book. Free www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/freebasketball-session-12pm-ages17-25-1pm-ages-10-16-tickets1279272170499?aff=ebdssbdestsearch
Play Saturdays Sat 1.30pm-3.30pm
With Play Champions. See online for ages/location. Young V&A, E2 9PA. www.vam.ac.uk/young
Ukelele Strum
Most Sats 5-6.30pm
Children must be accompanied. All stringed instruments welcome. Meadow Orchard Project, N8 5JD. Sign up online. Free, £5 donation accepted. https://meadoworchard.org/events
Kids Bike Ride and Repairs
Last Saturday 12-3pm
Our Yard Clitterhouse Farm, NW2 1AP. www.ouryard.org
Joy of Togetherness Weekends and Weds until 16 Jul 10.30am-6pm
Create art. with UNIQLO Tate Play: Make Studio. Last entry 5.15pm. (Check website for Family Tours.) Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1 9TG. Free www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern
Cutty Sark Family Fun Weekends and Fri-Mon in hols
Meet the cast of colourful characters from the ship’s past. Free family trail and musical storytelling sessions. Cutty Sark, SE10 9HT. www.rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark
Play Studio: Dream Worlds Weekends and holidays from 5 Jul 10am-5pm
Exploratory art space. Also check out Soft Studio, Mon-Fri in July. Family Tours: Jul 13, 23, 26 & 31 2.30pm3pm. Check for later dates. Tate Britain, Millbank, SW1P 4RG. Free tate.org.uk
Ted’s Space Adventure Weekends and holidays
u7s. 11.30am,
weekends and hols. Check website for The Sky Tonight 7+ Starstruck 7+, and other shows. See Earth From Space through a satellite lens, inc with ticket. Booking advised. Adult £12, child £6. Royal Observatory, SE10 8XJ www.rmg.co.uk
Junior Park Run 2km
Sundays
Fun family runs. Enfield Town Park, EN2 6TJ, Lordship Rec Ground, N17 6BQ, Priory Park N8 8LN, Caledonian Park N7, Highbury Fields N5, Friary Park N12 9PQ, London Fields, E8 3EU, Leyton Jubilee Park, E10 7BL, Paddington Rec W9 1PF, Queen’s Park NW 6SG, Furzefield Leisure Centre EN6 3BW, Cheshunt Park EN7 6QD. 9am. 4-14 Free, register. www.parkrun.org.uk
The Paper Dolls
Until 20 Jul Various times Show based on the book.. 3-8. 45 mins. Little Angel Theatre, Dagmar Passage N1 2DN. Adult £15, child £13, all tickets £10 at 4.45pm shows. www.littleangeltheatre.com
Krafty the Urban Fox: Tales from the Tower Block Until 27 Jul Various times Show. A night-time adventure. 2-5. 35 mins. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1 2EH. Adult £15, child £13, Thurs & Fri 4.45pm £10. www.littleangeltheatre.com
Overheard in a Tower Block Until 27 Jul Show. Coming of age drama. 7+. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1 2EH. Adult £15, child £13, Thurs & Fri
4.45pm £10. www.littleangeltheatre.com
Astronomy Photographer of the Year
Until 11 Aug
Exhibition. National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF. Currently free to book. www.rmg.co.uk
Summer Exhibition 2025
Until 17 Aug
Eclectic art show. Fab for introducing children to art. (Also 15 Jul-10 Aug
Young Artists Summer Show free.) Royal Academy of Arts, W1J 0BD. £23.50, u16 free www.royalacademy.org.uk
Earth Photo 2025
Until 20 Aug 10am-5pm
Selected winning images. Open MonFri. Royal Geographical Society, SW7 2AR. Drop-in. Free www.rgs.org
The Future of Money
Until Sep
Exhibition. Bank of England, museum entrance on Bartholomew Lane, EC2R 8AH. Open Mon-Fri. Often has holiday activities. Free www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum
Cats in Cartoons
Until 7 Sep
From Garfield to Bagpuss, the long line of cartoon cats is celebrated to explore what cats can tell us about life. The Cartoon Museum, W1A 3AE. £12, u18 free www.cartoonmuseum.org
Visions of Nature
Booking until 7 Sep
Mixed reality. See how our actions can make a better world for wildlife.
8+. Natural History Museum, SW7 5HD. £9.95. www.nhm.ac.uk/visit/exhibitions/ visions-of-nature.html
Do Ho Suh: Walk The House Until 19 Oct
Exhibition exploring the idea of “home”. Children will key into the large installations, walk-through work and thread drawings. Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1 9TG. £20, child £5, u12 free www.tate.org.uk
T Rex 3D (PG)
Booking until 24 Oct Various times 3D film revealing the real T Rex. Trailer looks amay-zing! Also showing: Antarctica 3D (U), A Beautiful Planet 3D (U), Ocean Odyssey 3D (U) and Under The Sea 3D (U). Science Museum, SW7 2DD. £12, child £10. Book free museum admission. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
Prehistoric Planet: Discovering Dinosaurs
Booking until 2 Nov
Immersive cinematic experience, exploring how dinosaurs have shaped our world. All ages. Dynamic pricing. Book early. From £25, child from £15. Families get discount. U3 free. Lightroom, N1C 4DY www.lightroom.uk
Power Up
Booking until 2 Nov
Play consoles and games from the past 5 decades. 5+. Must book. Science Museum, SW7 2DD. £12, Annual pass £18. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
Helen Oxenbury: Illustrating the Land of Childhood
Until 14 Dec
Exhibition of the children’s illustrator’s work. Weds-Fri & Sun. 10am-4pm. Burgh House, NW3 1LT. Free www.burghhouse.org.uk
Pirates
Until 4 Jan
Explore the myth, discover the truth. 7+. National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF. Adult £15, child £7.50. www.rmg.co.uk
Future of Food
Until Jan 4
Exhibition: How food must change to protect the planet. 7+. Science Museum, SW7 2DD. Free, book. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
World of Wasps
Until 24 Jan 1-5pm
Exhibition Experience the hidden world of wasps like never before. All ages. Museum open Tues-Fri 1pm5pm. Sat 11am-5pm. Grant Museum for Zoology, WC1E 6DE. Free, drop in. ucl.ac.uk/culture/grant-museum-zoology
Secrets of The Thames
Until 1 Mar
Exhibition: How mudlarking has uncovered London’s past. London Museum Docklands, E14 4AL. From £16, 12-18 £13.50, u12 free www.londonmuseum.org.uk/docklands
Day by day
July
Ella’s Big Chance: A Jazz Age Cinderella 4-6 July Various times Sadler’s Wells, EC1R 4TN. From £18. www.sadlerswells.com
East Barnet Festival
4-6 Jul
Music, funfair, stalls, food, dog show and more. Oak Hill Park, EN4. www.eastbarnetfestival.co.uk
The Singing Mermaid Story & Crafts
4, 5 & 7 Jul 10.30am & 2.30pm For 2-7. Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL. £5 redeemable against books in store on the day. www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk
Brain Fools Presents: Balance 5 Jul 5pm Show. Two circus artist, a stack barrels and a plank of wood. What could happen? (Also 4 Jul, 7pm.) Hoxton Hall, N1 6SH. £10. www.hoxtonhall.co.uk
How to Go To Space
5 Jul 2-3.15pm Action-packed science talk. U12 and their families. The Royal Institution, W1S 4BS. £16, child £10. www.rigb.org
Young V&A Summer Festival
5&6 Jul 11am-3pm Pop up performances, interactive installation, Imagination Playground and workshops. Young V&A, E2 9PA. Free www.vam.ac.uk/young
Family Workshop: Fantastic Fins
5 & 6 Jul 10.30am & 12pm Dolphin craft. 3-6. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1 2EH. £9.50. www.littleangeltheatre.com
Petit Pierre in Wonderland
5 &6, 12 & 13 Jul 11am, 3pm Laugh-out-loud kids’ puppet show –a new Wonderland adventure. 3-103 35mins. The Well Walk Theatre, NW3 1TS. From £15.90. www.thewellwalktheatre.com
Tales from the Shed
5 & 19 July 10am & 11.30am Vibrant, inclusive show. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. 0-6. Adults & children £7. Under 6m free www.chickenshed.org.uk
Joe Wicks Festival
6 Jul 9.30am-6pm Fun, fitness, feel-good and familyfriendly. Kew Gardens, TW9 3AE. £42, child £15, fam £103. www.kew.org
Alice Through the Looking Glass
6 Jul
Outdoor show, Stephens House and Gardens, N3 3QE. £16, u16 £12. www.stephenshouseandgardens.com
Hampstead Summer Festival Big Fair
6 Jul 12pm-5pm Funfair, Sport Zone and Circus School for children, plus stalls and live music. Heath Street, NW3. Free entry. www.hampsteadsummerfestival.com/ big-fair
The Cally Festival
6 Jul
Huge street party with music, creative workshops and street food. From Offord Road to Stanmore Street, N1. https://thecallyfestival.co.uk
Make a Terrarium
6 Jul 2.30-4.30pm
The conservatory, Broomfield Park, Aldermans Hill, N13 4HE. Drop in. Free, donations welcome. www.fobp.events
Barnet Football Club Community
Fun Day
6 Jul 8.30am-3pm
Giant inflatables, Meet The Champions, Beat the Goalie, Stadium Tours and more. The Hive, HA8 6AG. Free www.barnetfc.com
Rap it Out
6 Jul 11am & 1pm
Workshop. Craft your own compelling rhymes and rhythms. 7-12 and their adults. 90 mins. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. £12. www.jw3.org.uk
Myddleton Road Summer Festival
6 Jul 12-6pm Stalls, live music, rides and activities. Myddleton Road Market, N22 8NE. www.myddletonroadmarket.co.uk
The Beach
6 Jul-31 Aug
Weather-proof beach and paddling pool. All welcome. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. No book. (Check online for closure dates.) Free www.jw3.org.uk
Summer Live Programme
7 Jul-31 Aug 10.30am-4pm
Discover characters from the Tower’s history. Check session times. Tower of London, EC3N 4AB. Inc in admission. www.hrp.org.uk
Bring Your Own Baby Comedy
8 Jul 11.30am
Grown up comedy, babies welcome. Finsbury Park Picturehouse, N4 3FU. From £12.20. https://byobcomedy.com/area/finsbury-park
Rhythm!
12 Jul 11am-5pm
Dance festival inspired by the ocean and movement. National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF. Free www.rmg.co.uk
Dear Zoo Story & Crafts
11, 12 & 14 Jul 10.30am & 2.30pm 2-7. Pickled Pepper Books, N8 8PL. £5 redeemable in store on the day. www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk
Hetty Feather Day
12 Jul
Talk and book signing with author Dame Jacqueline Wilson. 7-13. Talk 11-11.45am. Book signing 12-1.30pm. Craft 12-3.30pm. Foundling Museum, WC1N 1AZ. £10, adult £8. www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk
Family Design Challenge: Designing with Nature
12 Jul 12-4pm
Create models with material properties found in nature. 3-14. 30mins. Young V&A, E2 9PA. Free, drop in. www.vam.ac.uk/young
Gladiators to Centurions Tour
12 Jul
Aimed at adults, but interested and well-supervised 8+ welcome. On two sites, including rarely accessible remains. Guildhall Art Gallery and Roman Amphitheatre, EC2V 5AE. £15. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/events
Whitecross Street Party 12-13 Jul 12-6pm Festival of street art and performance. All ages. Whitecross Street, EC1. www.wxstreetparty.co.uk
The Wish Thief 12-13 Jul
In a perfect town with perfect rules, what more could you wish for – and what would happen if those wishes came true? Opera in English, developed for younger audiences. All ages. Royal Ballet and Opera, WC2E
9DD. £10-£19
www.rbo.org.uk
Chickenshed Summer of Fun
Opera Blurgh
12 Jul and 2, 3 Aug 10am, 11.30am
Bold, beautiful musical adventure. Rec 2-6. £10.
Tales Big Day Out
26 Jul & 3 Aug 1.30pm-4pm
Multi-room adventure. Performance, play, themed workshops and pop-up surprises. 0-7. £12.50.
Sunshine Tales from the Shed 30 & 31 Jul, 1, 9 & 10 Aug 10am & 11.30am
Show full of music, silliness and Tales magic. 0-6. £7
The Scruffapillar
30 & 31 Jul, 2 Aug 1.30pm
The Tales team bring JD Okoro’s book to the stage. 2-6. £7.
Tales from the British Library
1 & 6 Aug 1.30pm
Expect to see Funky Monkey and Blurgh, on a joyful journey of discovery. 0-6 £5.
Spots and Stripes
6-8 Aug 10am & 11.30am
Show. Playful musical adventure exploring patterns, difference and discovery. 0-4. £5.
Totally Tales
7 & 8 Aug Times vary Show. The characters create a set story – and one made by you. 2-7. £5.
Tales Jukebox 8 Aug 4.30pm Show. All-singing, all dancing mash up of this summer's shows. 0-8. £7. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. U6m free www.chickenshed.org.uk
Pottery at the Beach 13 Jul 10am-1pm
Paint a pot. 5+ and all above. JW3 community centre, NW3 6ET. £15. www.jw3.org.uk
Somerstown Festival 13 Jul
Music festival. Fun fair. No details but last year's festival had Story Garden and Art Area. Chalton St, NW1 1HJ. Free www.somerstownfestival.co.uk
Community Orchard Picnic 13 Jul 1-5pm
Live music, refreshments and tug of war. The Orchard, Broomfield Park, Aldermans Hill, N13 4HE. www.fobp.events
Big Beat Playground 13 Jul 1pm-7pm
Family-oriented community festival. Circus performances and workshops, creative space, dance, Tropical Hangout and Wellbeing Hideaway. Our Yard at Clitterhouse Farm, NW2 1AP. £14.50, u17 £7.50, pre-walkers free www.bigbeatplayground.co.uk
CoComelon Sing-a-long LIVE 5 Jul-7 Sep
CoComelon Sing-a-Long LIVE is coming to the West End this summer! Join Ms. Appleberry, JJ, Cody, Nina and Cece for the vibrant, musical adventure that you do not want to miss. Book your tickets now from just £12. St Martin’s Theatre, WC2H 9NZ www.stmartinstheatre.co.uk
Object Handling
16 & 17, 22 & 23, 25, 30&31 Jul, 7, 14, 21, 28 Aug Times vary. 7+. Subjects vary. Science Museum, SW7 2DD. Free, drop in. Plus free Elio-inspired Summer Space Trail. Book free museum admission. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
The Secret Garden 18 Jul 6pm-8pm Outdoor show. Rec 6+. Keats House, NW3 2RR. £20, child £17, fam £70. www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/keatshouse-4777597709
Transport Explorers: A Live Show 19 Jul-Jan 4 Various times Selected dates. Family show. London Transport Museum. 7+. 60 mins. The Piazza, WC2E 7BB. £15, £12. www.ltmuseum.co.uk
The Montserrat Festival 19 Jul 12-8pm
Celebrating Caribbean culture. Chestnuts Park, N15 3AQ. £26.10, child £15.91, various concs. www.montserratfestivaluk.com
Big Bad Wolf
19 Jul 4pm
Outdoor show. Musical journey with literature’s most notorious villain. Rec 4+. Broomfield Park, Aldermans Hill, N13 4HE. £12, child £6, group £30. www.fobp.events
Family Fun Day: BIG Science 19 Jul 11am-4pm Activities, demos and shows. Rec 7-12, older/younger siblings welcome. The Royal Institution, W1S 4BS. Sells quickly. £16, child £10. www.rigb.org
Ready Steady Sail!
19 & 20 Jul 10.30am, 12pm, 1.45pm & 3.15pm Craft, storytelling and walkabout performance at the National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF. Free www.rmg.co.uk
The Big Dig
20 Jul-31 Aug Various times
Find out what it’s like to be a real archaeologist. 5+. 1hr. London Museum Docklands, E14 4AL. Best to book. From £4.50. Concs avail. www.londonmuseum.org.uk/docklands
Rough Magic
19 Jul-23 Aug Various times Theatre. Hilarious Macbeth-related family comedy. Indoors in the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, Shakespeare’s Globe, SE1 9DT. From £15. www.shakespearesglobe.com
Theatre on Kew: The Dream Fairies and Alice in Wonderland
19 Jul-31 Aug Various times Theatre. Selected dates. Kew Gardens, TW9 3AE. £22.90, child £17.90. www.kew.org
Family Dance Day
19 Jul 10am-5pm Events, workshops and activities for 2-10s and their families at Coram’s Fields, WC1N 1DN. Free www.theplace.org.uk
Alice Through the Looking Glass 20 Jul 3pm-4.30pm tbc Outdoor show for all the family. Bruce Castle Park, N17. Free for the local community. www.quantumtheatre.co.uk
Big Bad Wolf
20 Jul 11.30pm & 2.30pm As Jul 19. Stephens House and Gar-
dens, N3 3QE. £18.50, u16 £14.50. www.stephenshouseandgardens.com
The Tale of Jemima Puddleduck 20 Jul 3pm-4.30pm Outdoor show. Oakhill Golf, EN4 8JS. £12.50.
www.quantumtheatre.co.uk
Birdspotting at the Welsh Harp
20 Jul & Aug 24 10am-12pm Fun bird-spotting walk with an expert. 5+ welcome with their adult. Welsh Harp, NW9 7AB. £8.50, u18 £4.25 www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/things-todo/events/canal-events-canal-festivals/2025-08-24-bird-spotting-atthe-welsh-harp
Sunday Funday
20 Jul, 17 Aug 11am Workshops. Activities related to the history of the house. 4-10. Lauderdale House, N6 5HG. Free, drop in. www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk
Comedy Club 4 Kids
20 Jul, 24 Aug, 14 Sep 3pm Comedy without the rude bits. 6+. Park Theatre, N4 3JP. From £15 plus fee. www.parktheatre.co.uk
Alice Through the Looking Glass
22 Jul 4.30-6pm Outdoor show. All ages. Woodside Park, N22 8YX. Free for local community.
www.quantumtheatre.co.uk
Family Chocolate Making
22 & 31 Jul, 19, 21 & 28 Aug Various times
Learn how cacao beans grow and flavour your own chocolate treats. 5+. 2 hrs. Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS. £25, child £20. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk
Marching Orders: Admirable Art
23-25 Jul & 26-29 Aug
Family-friendly gallery tour. National Army Museum, SW3 4HT. Free www.nam.ac.uk
Summer of Fun N Flight
23 Jul-3 Aug RC Helicopter Time Trial & Scavenger Hunt, 4+, £5. RAF Hendon Lego Reconstruction, 4+, £5.
4-17 Aug Top Trumps Tournament, 6+, £5. Airfix Make & Take, 6+, £5. 18-24 Aug (selected dates) VR Workshops: Space Explorers, 4+, £7.50. Super Science Show, 4+, £7.50. 25-31 Aug In Time! RAF Mystery Games, 4+, £7.50. Crazy Comic Book Workshops, 4+, £7.50. www.rafmuseum.org.uk
Family Bees and Bugs Exploration
23 Jul & Aug 4 Various times
Discover insects and micro-habitats. 5+. Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS. £10, child £5. Includes entry to garden. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk
Family Pondlife Exploration
23 & 29 Jul, 4, 6, 18, 20 & 27 Aug Various times
5+. 1hr. Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS. £10, child £5. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk
As You Like It
23 & 24 Jul 7.30pm Fun family-friendly outdoor production of Shakespeare’s play. (Also Garland and Headband-making workshop 3+, from 6.45-7.15pm, £3.50.) Lauderdale House, N6 5HG. Play £15.50, concs £12.50, fam £46. www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk
Macbeth Family Workshop
23-26 & 29 Jul-2 Aug, 5-9 & 21-16 &
19-23 Aug Various times 9-11 and their families. (Also Family Sword-fighting Demonstration
£12.50, see dates.) Shakespeare’s Globe, SE1 9DT. £10. www.shakespearesglobe.com
Rail Adventures
23 Jul-Aug 31
Family activities to celebrate 200 years of railways. London Transport Museum, WC2E 7BB. Inc with entry. www.ltmuseum.co.uk
Mini Makers: Become your own Story Character
24 Jul-30 Aug
Craft something to transform yourself into a story character. (Also Storytelling 7, 14, 21 & Aug, traditional Caribbean folklore, woven with stories from the Voices of Resistance exhibition. The Postal Museum, WC1X 0DA. Inc with admission. www.postalmuseum.org
Space Night at the Museum 25 Jul 6.45pm-9.30pm
Chat to scientists about all things space, follow a trail and see the exhibition, Space: Could Life Exist Beyond Earth? 6+ and their families. Natural History Museum, SW7 5HD. £27. www.nhm.ac.uk
Groove Onto The Moon
26 Jul 11am & 2pm
Musical experience. Fun sci-fi music adventure. 3-7. Grand Junction, W2 5TF. Pay what you can. www.grandjunction.org.uk
The Floofs Reach for the Stars
26 Jul 2pm
Workshop with author-illustrator Penelope O’Neill. Learn how to make your own graphic novel. 7-9. The Cartoon Museum, W1A 3AE. From £12.58. www.cartoonmuseum.org
Play in the Park...
26 Jul 11am-3pm
Creative activities and events. Kensington Gardens, near Black Lion Gate. Drop in, free www.royalparks.org.uk/whats-on/ play-park
Mario the Maker Magician
26-27 Jul
Upbeat magic show. All ages 60mins. Underbelly Boulevard, W1F 0BT. From £16. www.underbellyboulevard.com
The “Bear” Child
26-27 Jul 2pm & 5pm Show. Wordless parent-child drama exploring laughter, rules, rebellion and affection. 3+. 1hr. artsdepot, N12 0GA. £25, concs £22.50. www.artsdepot.co.uk
Oaklore
26 Jul-31 Aug
An adventure of making, exploring and living out exciting stories with the Oak-Keepers. Kew Gardens, TW9 3AE. Included with entry. www.kew.org
Family Nature Discovery
28 Jul 1pm-3pm.
Children of all ages and carers. Camley Street Natural Park, N1C 4PW. Drop in. Free, donations welcome. www.wildlondon.org.uk
RI Holiday Workshops
8 Jul-1 Sep
Includes Cosmetic Chemistry, Extract Your Own DNA and many more science-related workshops, for various age ranges. The Royal Institu-
tion, W1S 4BS. Check times and prices online. www.rigb.org
Heroic Headwear
29 Jul-1 Aug
Hat-making workshop inspired by the Myths and Reality exhibition. National Army Museum, SW3 4HT. Free www.nam.ac.uk
Design and Make a Miniature Garden
29 Jul, 5 & 19 Aug 1.5hr workshop and full access to the gardens and mini zoo. Capel Manor Gardens, Enfield, EN1 4RQ. £13, supervising adult £9 www.capelmanorgardens.co.uk
Nature Discovery & Storytime
29 Jul
10.30-11.30am Nature Storytime Aimed at u6, but all welcome. 1-3pm. Nature Discovery. Children of all ages and carers. Walthamstow Wetlands, N17 9NH. Drop in. Free, donations welcome www.wildlondon.org.uk
Spot’s Birthday Party
29-31 Jul Various times Show. Integrated Makaton, songs, dancing and interactive games. 2+ 50mins. artsdepot, N12 0GA. From £14. www.artsdepot.co.uk
Great Fire of London Family Show
29 Jul-28 Aug
Show. Discover hidden stories and the tools that saved a city. 5+. 30 mins. London Museum Docklands, E14 4AL. Check cost online. www.londonmuseum.org.uk/docklands
Summer Nature Roadshow
30 Jul 11am-3pm
Activities for families, nature-lovers and budding environmentalists. Regent’s Park, NW1 4NP. Register, then drop-in. Free www.royalparks.org.uk/whats-on/ summer-roadshows
Family Cyanotype Making
30 Jul, 25 & 28 Aug Various times
Learn how plants thrive and make a cyanotype 5+. 1hr. Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS. £15, child £10. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk
Big Bad Wolf
31 Jul 4pm
As Jul 19 Rec 4+. Forty Hall, EN2 9HA. £15, child £8, conc £10, fam £39. www.fortyhallestate.co.uk
Summer Nature Roadshow
31 Jul 11am-3pm As 30 Jul. Green Park, W1J. Register, then drop-in. Free www.royalparks.org.uk/whats-on/ summer-roadshows
Nature Discovery & Storytime
31 Jul
10.30-11.30am Nature Storytime. Aimed at u6, but all welcome. 1pm-3pm. Nature Discovery. Children of all ages and carers. Woodberry Wetlands, N16 5HQ. Drop in. Free, donations welcome www.wildlondon.org.uk
August
We Were There: Family Day 1, 8, 15 & 22 Aug 11am-3pm Veterans share their important true stories of conflict. Plus, weekends and holidays, find the mischievous Morse Mice. HMS Belfast, SE1 2JH. www.iwm.org.uk
Ice Saturday
2 Aug Various times
Storytelling, a new ice trail, craft activity, ice cream scent challenge, and boat trip (book in advance), and more. London Canal Museum, N1 9RT. Check prices online. www.canalmuseum.org.uk
Family Workshops: Ice Screams!
2-3 Aug 10am & 11.30am Make ice cream and lolly puppets. 3-6. 1hr. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1 2EH. £9.50. www.littleangeltheatre.com
Family Soap Making
5 Aug 10am-12pm
Workshop to create your own botanical soap. 5+. 1hr. Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS. £25, child £20. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk
Family Fun Days
5, 12, 19 & 26 Aug
Craft activities and workshops, various themes. Includes boat trip. Museum open Tues-Sun and bank hols. London Canal Museum, N1 9RT. £10, child £5. Without trip £7.50/£3.75. www.canalmuseum.org.uk
Playday in the Garden
6 Aug 1.30-6.30pm
A festival of play, creativity, design and biodiversity, with workshops. 4-10 Design Museum, W8 6AG. £5. www.designmuseum.org
London Youth Games
6 Jul
Watch, or take part! See p3 for details. Copper Box Arena, E20 3HB. www.londonyouthgames.org
Coram’s Fields Playday 2025 6 Aug 12-4pm
Inflatable obstacle course, arts, sports and games, scavenger hunt, chicken encounter, live performances and more. Coram’s Fields, WC1N 1DN. Free, drop in. www.coramsfields.org
Playday at the Brunel Museum
6 Aug
A variety of STEAM-inspired activities such as crafting, building, interactive games and creative experiments. 5+ (Plus Summer of Sustainability Trail inc in admission.) Brunel Museum, SE16 4LF. Free, booking rec. www.thebrunelmuseum.com
Family Quiet Hour Plant Painting
6 Aug, 19 Aug Various times
Low sensory workshop. Mix your own paints and unlock the colours of plants. 5+. 1hr. Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS. £10, child £5. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk
Depot Family Tours
6, 8, 13, 20, 22 & 27 Aug Various times
Uncover the stories of some special vehicles. 5-11. 1hr. London Transport Museum. Acton Depot. W3 9BQ. £15, child £8. www.ltmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/family-events/depot-family-tours
Summer Cycle
7 Aug 5-9pm Family-friendly. Cycle in Kew Gardens, TW9 3AE. £19.50, child £10.50. www.kew.org
Summer Nature Roadshow
7 Aug 11am-3pm As Jul 30. Kensington Gardens. Register, then drop-in. Free www.royalparks.org.uk/whats-on/ summer-roadshows
The Dinosaur that Pooped a Rock
Show
7-10 Aug 11am & 2pm
Show. 3+. 65mins. Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY. £26.80, u16 £21.80. www.alexandrapalace.com
Ministry of Science
7-14 Aug 4.30pm
Science show. Expect liquid nitrogen clouds, exploding balloons and a selfbuilt hovercraft. 6-12. 1hr 30. Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY. £26.80, u16 £21.80. www.alexandrapalace.com
Family Festival of Caribbean Culture
8-9 Aug
Colourful crafts, food-themed workshops, dance workshops and party with live DJs. London Museum Docklands, E14 4AL. Free, book. www.londonmuseum.org.uk/docklands
Shoe Baby
8-10 Aug Various times
Sing-along puppet adventure based on the classic book. 2-5. 30 mins, and meet the puppets. Little Angel Theatre, Dagmar Passage N1 2DN. Adult £15, child £14. www.littleangeltheatre.com
Family Workshops: Bugs! 9-10 Aug 10am & 11.30am
Create a bug puppet to take home. 3-6. 1hr. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1 2EH. £9.50. www.littleangeltheatre.com
Tom Gates Epic Stage Show 11-12 Aug 11am & 2pm
Based on the best-selling books. 3+. 1hr. Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY. £26.80, u16 £21.80. www.alexandrapalace.com
Game On: Second World War 12-15 Aug
Giant board game challenge. National Army Museum, SW3 4HT. Free www.nam.ac.uk
Marching Orders: VJ Day Tour 13-15 Aug
Family-friendly gallery tour. National Army Museum, SW3 4HT. Free www.nam.ac.uk
The Wizard of Oz 13, 15 & 17 Aug Various times. Interactive show. Skip, hop and leap, as the performance moves through the gardens. All ages. 1hr. Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS. £25, child £18. Includes entry to the garden. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk
Fireman Sam – The Great Camping Adventure 13-14 Aug 11am & 2pm Theatre show. Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY. £26.80, u16 £21.80. www.alexandrapalace.com
Play in the Park... 14 Aug, 11am-3pm As 26 Jul. Gloucester Gate Playground, Regents Park. Drop in, free www.royalparks.org.uk/whats-on/ play-park
The Tortoise and the Firefly 15-17 Aug Various times
Show inspired by African folk tales. A tale of unexpected friendship and belonging. 3-8. 40mins. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1 2EH. Adult £15, child £13. www.littleangeltheatre.com
Natural History Museum: Dinosaurs Live 15-17 Aug 11am, 2pm, 4.30pm
Watch life-like dinos come alive on stage. Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY. £26.80, u16 £21.80. www.alexandrapalace.com
The Enormous Crocodile 15 Aug-7 Sep 10.30am & 2pm. Sat 10.15am
Musical show with a menagerie of puppets. 55mins. Not Thurs. 3+. Regents Park Open Air Theatre, through Queen Mary’s Garden, Regents Park. NW1 4NU. From £16.50. openairtheatre.com
Tales from the Lighthouse 15-17 Aug Various times
Musical show full of stories and songs from the sea. 5-11. 50 mins. Little Angel Theatre, Dagmar Passage N1 2DN. Adult £15, child £13. www.littleangeltheatre.com
Make you LOL 19-21 Aug Various times
Ridiculous, joyous and hilarious comedy from the Listies. 5-11. 60 mins. Little Angel Theatre, Dagmar Passage N1 2DN. Adult £15, child £13. www.littleangeltheatre.com
The Pigeon and the Peacock 19-21 Aug Various times Show. All the birds laugh at Pigeon’s poetry and love the Peacock’s flamboyant feathers. How will they learn that beauty is more than feather-deep? 5-11. 45mins plus short Q&A. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1 2EH. Adult £15, child £13. www.littleangeltheatre.com
Marvellous Victorian Medals 19-22 Aug
Family-friendly workshop. Create a medal from clay and other materials.. National Army Museum, SW3 4HT. Free www.nam.ac.uk
The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe 20 Aug-Sep 7
The West End production moves to Sadler’s Wells. Various times/matinees. 7+. Sadler’s Wells, EC1R 4TN. From £15 www.sadlerswells.com
Summer Nature Roadshow 21 Aug 11am-3pm As 30 Jul. St James’s Park. Register, then drop-in. Free www.royalparks.org.uk/whats-on/ summer-roadshows
Baby Broadway 21 Aug 10am & 11.15am Enjoy well-known musical numbers. 0-6. Chickenshed, N14 4PE. From £7. www.chickenshed.org.uk
Hickory Dickory Dock 22-24 Aug Various times Show. Slapstick glove puppet adventure. 3-8. 50mins plus meet the puppets. Little Angel Theatre, Dagmar Passage N1 2DN. Adult £15, child £13. www.littleangeltheatre.com
The Elves and the Shoemaker 23-25 Aug Various times Show of the classic tale with delightful puppet characters and magical surprises. 3-8. 45mins plus meet the puppets. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1 2EH. Adult £15, child £13. www.littleangeltheatre.com
Alice Through The Looking Glass 24 Aug 3pm-4.30pm Outdoor show. Myddelton House Gardens, Enfield, EN2 9HG. £16, child £11, fam £46. www.visitleevalley.org.uk
Steaming Days
25 Aug 10am-4pm Engine runs, 12.30pm-1.15pm and 2.30pm-3.15pm. (Full list of open days & activities online. Markfield Beam Engine and Museum, N15 5UL. Free www.mbeam.org
BBC Proms: CBeebies Prom - A Magical Bedtime Story 25 Aug 12.30pm & 3.30pm Concert at the Royal Albert Hall, SW7 2AP. Various prices. www.royalalberthall.com
Design Camps
26 Aug 10.15am-4.15pm Drawing and Storytelling, 11-14. 27 Aug 10am-4pm Drawing and Storytelling, 8-11. 10.15am-4.15pm Waterpark Architecture, 11-14. 28 Aug 10.15am-4.15pm Designing with Light and Shadow, 11-14. Design Museum, W8 6AG. £78, before Aug 4 £71. www.designmuseum.org
Marching Orders: Admirable Art 26-29 Aug
Family-friendly gallery tour. National Army Museum, SW3 4HT. Free www.nam.ac.uk
Bat Watch Walk
27 Aug & 3 Sep 7.30pm Guided walk. Sells quickly. Highgate Wood, Muswell Hill Rd, N10 3JN. £10. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/events
Zippos Circus: Bravo!
28 Aug-1 Sep Various times Clissold Park, N16 9HJ. Adult £14.99, u15 £11.99. u2 on laps, free www.zippos.co.uk
Escape from the Bubble Tub 30-31 Aug Various times
Engaging show featuring puppets and bubbles. 3-8. 45mins. Little Angel Studios, Sebbon St, N1 2EH. Adult £15, child £13. www.littleangeltheatre.com
Magic Bistro
30 Aug- 28 Sep times vary
A menu of wizardry, vanishing spoons, chaos and humour. 35 mins. The Well Walk Theatre, NW3 1TS. £15.90, u2 free www.thewellwalktheatre.com
Finchley Fire Station Open Day
31 Aug 12pm Meet the firefighters. N3 2RP. Free www.london-fire.gov.uk/community/ events-open-days
September
Garden Teddy Bear Hunt
2 Sep 11am-2pm Trail. Stephens House and Gardens, N3 3QE. £5. www.stephenshouseandgardens.com
The Listies: Make Some Noise Sep 7 11am & 2pm Comedy concert for ages 4-400 artsdepot, N12 0GA. From £13.75. www.artsdepot.co.uk
Palmers Green Festival
7 Sep 12pm-5pm
Funfair, donkey rides, dog show, family funzone and more. Broomfield Park, Aldermans Hill, N13 4HE. www.fobp.events
Community Heritage Day
7 Sep 11am-4pm
No details. Previous events included music, arts and crafts, dog show, bee keepers and heritage and conservation groups. On the field, Highgate Wood, N10 3JN. Free entry. www.highgatesociety.com
Team games, model making, den building, bake offs, park trips and more fun days at our high-quality, affordable camps for 4 to 11s. Flexible childcare where everyone is supported. In Moss Hall Infant School, N12 8PE. Tax-free/ Childcare Vouchers accepted. 07731669002 ✉enquiries@ mosshallplaycentre.co.uk www.mosshallplaycentre.co.uk
Nile Wilson Gymnastics Academy
Unlock your child's potential at Nile Wilson Gymnastics Academy! We offer exciting Rhythmic & Artistic Gymnastics, Parkour, Acrobatic Dance, and Cheerleading for kids 3½+. With locations across North and Central London, we also host actionpacked holiday camps featuring Gymnastics, Dance, and Circus Skills. Plus, enjoy private coaching and unforgettable birthday parties for up to 24 children. Fun, fitness, and skill-building start at Nile Wilson Gymnastics Academy! nwga.co.uk
Little House of Science
Fun classes and holiday camps where curious minds can learn and experiment.
Summer: 7 Jul to 29
Aug. Book individual days or whole weeks at UCS, NW3. Interactive hands-on experiments with expert instructors, take-home projects and outdoor breaks too, help children develop essential skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, teamwork & communication. 10 per cent sibling & friends discounts. 07843 346557 info@littlehouseofscience.com www.littlehouseofscience.com
At Stage Academy, kids learn to communicate, articulate, and connect, mastering moves, perfecting lines and hitting notes, building resilience and growing stronger – skills that last a lifetime. Let them learn to shine with Stage Academy this year! Classes in N1, N3, N6, N8, N12, NW6 & HA7 for 4-18s. 100% LAMDA pass rate. Book a free class trial today. Plus we can bring our Stage Academy magic to your party with innovative Stage Parties for all ages. stageacademy.co.uk Summer School in Highgate: stageacademy.co.uk/holiday
Stagecoach Highgate & Hampstead Heath
Highgate School
NEW School open in Hampstead, Sundays. We aim to bring out the best in your child and we’re not just talking about their newfound skills in dancing, singing and acting. Our students develop excellent communication skills, grow in self-esteem and enjoy the benefits of improved confidence! We welcome children of all abilities from 4 to 16 and offer 2-week class trials. No previous singing or acting needed, just a willingness to give it a go. 07956 436028. www.stagecoach.co.uk/highgate
"I saw you in Famili s magazin and "
Inspire your child with North London Stars! Fun dance and theatre classes for ages 2–16, boosting creativity, confidence, and curiosity from the very first plié. Little ones move and groove, older kids build strong technique. With weekly classes, exciting holiday camps, and chances to shine on stage, there’s always something to twirl about! 07726 931310 ✉ info@northlondonstars.com www.northlondonstars.com
Highgate is one of the UK’s leading co-educational independent schools for pupils aged 4 to 18 who come from a diverse range of backgrounds across North London and beyond. Families looking to apply to Highgate can find our Admissions information on our website, including how to apply and visiting an open day. We welcome applications from eligible families who are looking for financial help through our bursary scheme. Highgateschool.org.uk
Hyland House School
I’m Jed, a registered therapist experienced in supporting parents and carers through emotional and family-related challenges. I also work with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues and grief in a down-to-earth way, focused on what matters to you. Following placements with Mind and Camden’s Parent and Carer Counselling Service, I now work in private practice. ✉ mindmeanings@gmail.com www.mindmeanings.com
Specialist providers of information and resources for the 11+ entrance exam, to demystify and ease preparation for parents and children. 11+ events in Finchley, Barnet and Edmonton. Plus Holiday Learning Clubs, Mock Test Review Sessions, Pass Club – Saturday tuition and Weekly Practice Tests. www.mocktestmasters.com
Wac Arts provides a high-quality affordable Arts Programme for children and young people aged 4-30. Weekend and evening classes, Summer School for 4-15s, Play in a Week holiday project, and specialist workshops at our HQ in Belsize Park, Camden. Bursaries available. Our vision is for all young people to have access to the arts. www.wacarts.co.uk
Schools & Nurseries
For over a decade, our five multilingual nurseries in Angel, Crouch Hill, Paddington, Tufnell Park and West Hampstead, have provided exceptional childcare in a nurturing environment. In addition to our focus on French and English, our Mandarin programme introduces children to the beauty and richness of Mandarin Chinese. Our children enjoy a perfectlybalanced 4-course menu, organic wherever possible. www.lpe.uk
Childbase Nurseries
Our nurseries provide outstanding care and education for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years, with days packed full of activities designed in line with EYFS principles and implemented by highly-trained and knowledgeable staff. Children have daily access to outdoor space. Open 7.30am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday. Fully inclusive service. https://childbasepartnership.com
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Young Actors Theatre Islington Theatre made by and for young people. Booking now open for our Summer Holiday classes in acting, musical theatre, film, and dance. YATI offers over 60 hours per week of highquality, affordable performing arts training for 4s and up, at our home base – Barnsbury Road and our satellite spaces – Archway. We have a number of free spaces through our Stage Door scheme. Call us on 020 7278 2101 to find out more. Full schedule and how to book at www.youngactors.org.uk/classes
Nestled in the heart of Islington, T-House is more than a nursery— it’s a vibrant community where children and families grow together. Just 2 minutes from Caledonian Road station, we offer a warm, inclusive space focused on connection, creativity, and care. Open Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm, with weekend community events for all ages. 2 Cottage Road, London N7 8TP. 020 46198236. ✉ info@thouse.uk www.t-house.uk
Our happy, nurturing environment and forest school for children aged 2-4 is nestled on the south west tip of Hampstead Heath. Ofsted Outstanding for 8 years. Our dedicated team is passionate about early years education but don’t take our word for it, or Ofsted’s. See our testimonials and join our Open Mornings on Fridays. To book email amelia@pussinbootsnursery.co.uk 0207 267 2181 www.pussinbootsnursery.co.uk
www.TinyTalk.co.uk/zahrak
Kindergartens for a brilliant start and long-term success in music! Develop your child’s musical talent in Kodaly-based music kindergartens and instrumental programmes 6ms to 6yrs, and avoid waits for our NL Conservatoire instrumental programme for 5-19s. Muswell Hill, Highgate, Islington, Bounds Green, Hendon, Call 020 8444 9435 for a trial of 3 discounted lessons or email admin@nlcolourstrings.co.uk www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk
At our Saturday Centre we teach baby, toddler and early years music. We have an integrated music programme for 5-18s and teach adults too, all with an emphasis on creativity and enjoyment that inspires students to learn and play independently. All our teachers are inspired specialists, trained in the distinctive DaCapo approach that blends the influences of Kodaly and Eurythmics. Find our centre at Wren Academy, N12 9HB. 07595 367194. ✉ jam@dacapo.co.uk www.dacapo.co.uk
Robert Young – I am a fun, energetic pianist, keyboardist, violinist and singer based in Northwest London offering a range of interactive lessons. I teach the piano and violin and I offer the opportunity to master a popular instrument. There are face-to-face lessons available. 07950015269 to discuss. ✉robert@young1.org http://robert.young1.org
Wednesday Wander
2 Jul, 6 Aug
Guided walk to learn more about the diverse wildlife on the reserve. RSPB Rye Meads, SG12 8JS. £6. www.events.rspb.org.uk/ryemeads
Backstairs
Until 18 Jul 11.30am-3.45pm (Exc 12-13 Jul.) Staff must ready the palace for Queen Anne’s arrival. Various performances and times. (Also Historic Cookery, weekends until Nov 20.) Hampton Court Palace, KT8 9AU. Inc in admission. www.hrp.org.uk
Henry VIII’s Joust 12-13 & 19-29 Jul Knights battle it out. Hampton Court Palace, KT8 9AU. Inc in admission. www.hrp.org.uk
The Peter Rabbit Adventure
The Tale of Jemima Puddleduck
3 Aug 3pm-4.30pm
Outdoors. Waltham Abbey Gardens, EN9 1XQ. £16, child £11, fam £46. www.visitleevalley.org.uk/event-listings/jemima-puddle-duck
Dragonflies & Damselflies
16 Aug 1-3pm
Guided walk with an expert. RSPB Rye Meads, SG12 8JS. £12, child £6. www.events.rspb.org.uk/ryemeads
Up Close with Birds
23 Aug 8am
See bird-ringers in action. RSPB Rye Meads, SG12 8JS. Books up quickly. £20, child £9. www.events.rspb.org.uk/ryemeads
Big Wild Pyjama Party
29 Aug 5pm-9.30pm
Family-friendly evening in the great outdoors, experiencing the sights and sounds of nature. RSPB Rye Meads, SG12 8JS. £16, child £9. www.events.rspb.org.uk/ryemeads
Party in the Piazza Community
A family concert adventure. Kings Place, N1 9GE. £20, child £15. www.kingsplace.co.uk
New Scientist Live 18-20 Oct 10am-5pm
Inspirational and educational expo with interactive experiences, many aimed at children. Earlybird discounts available. www.live.newscientist.com
Steve Backshall’s Deadly Live! 27 Oct 2pm
For adventurers of all ages. At The O2, SE10 0DX. From £30. www.theo2.co.uk
Justin Live: Justin Time to Rock 2 Nov 11am, 2.30pm CBeebies’ Justin Fletcher’s first live tour since 2022. Alban Arena, Al1 3LD. £24. www.alban-arena.co.uk
Bright, fun design
Detachable safety rein
Room for toys, snacks and essentials
5 available
Worth £19.99
T&Cs apply
