Looking for free things to do in London with kids this weekend?
After busy weeks and expensive holidays, many families are searching for simple, fun, and low-cost ways to spend time together. The good news is that London is one of the best cities in the world for free family activities, especially in spring.
This guide is designed for parents with children aged 5 to 10, with ideas you can use immediately — whether you live in London or you’re visiting for a few days.
Why Free Activities Work Best After Easter
After Easter holidays, many families:
- Want to reduce spending
- Prefer simple outdoor activities
- Need ideas that are easy to organise
- Look for flexible weekend plans
London is perfect for this. You can mix:
- Parks
- Museums
- Short adventures
- Easy walking routes
If you are planning a full trip, you can also explore our complete guide on Where to Go in London with Kids to structure your days.
🌳 1. Best Free Outdoor Activities in London for Kids
Diana Memorial Playground (Kensington Gardens)
One of the best playgrounds in London.
- 📍 Kensington Gardens
- 🚇 Nearest station: Queensway / High Street Kensington
- 💰 Free
- 🌐 https://www.royalparks.org.uk
Why kids love it:
- Pirate ship play area
- Sand and sensory zones
- Safe enclosed space
👉 Perfect for ages 4–10
Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens Walk
A classic and always effective option.
What to do:
- Rent a ball or play games
- Walk around the Serpentine
- Stop for a picnic
👉 Combine with playground for a full morning plan
Greenwich Park Adventure Day
A great open space with views and room to run.
- 📍 Greenwich
- 🚇 Cutty Sark / Greenwich DLR
- 💰 Free
Why it works:
- Hills and open grass
- Space to play
- Combine with riverside walk
🧠 2. Free Museums Kids Actually Enjoy
Natural History Museum
- 📍 South Kensington
- 🚇 South Kensington
- 💰 Free
- 🌐 https://www.nhm.ac.uk
Highlights:
- Dinosaur skeleton
- Interactive exhibits
👉 One of the best free activities in London for kids
Science Museum
- 📍 South Kensington
- 🚇 South Kensington
- 💰 Free
- 🌐 https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
Highlights:
- Hands-on zones
- Interactive learning
👉 Great for rainy backup
Young V&A (Bethnal Green)
- 📍 Bethnal Green
- 🚇 Bethnal Green
- 💰 Free
- 🌐 https://www.vam.ac.uk/young
Highlights:
- Creative play
- Design and discovery
👉 Ideal for ages 5–10
🚶 3. Easy 2–3 Hour Family Plans (Ready to Use)
Plan A (Central London Quick Day)
Morning:
- Natural History Museum
Lunch:
- Hyde Park picnic
Afternoon:
- Diana Playground
👉 Easy, balanced, no stress
Plan B (Relaxed Outdoor Day)
Morning:
- Greenwich Park
Midday:
- Riverside walk
Optional:
- Boat ride (paid if you want)
Plan C (Short Fun City Break)
- Covent Garden street performers
- Walk to Trafalgar Square
- Snack stop
👉 High engagement, low effort
🌟 4. Hidden Free Gems (Less Crowded)
Mudchute Farm
- 📍 Isle of Dogs
- 🚇 Mudchute DLR
- 💰 Free
- 🌐 https://www.mudchute.org
Highlights:
- Animals
- Farm experience
Granary Square Fountains (King’s Cross)
- 📍 King’s Cross
- 🚇 King’s Cross
- 💰 Free
Highlights:
- Interactive fountains
- Open space
👉 Great in spring weather
Little Venice Walk
- 📍 Warwick Avenue
- 🚇 Warwick Avenue
- 💰 Free
Highlights:
- Canal boats
- Quiet atmosphere
👉 Perfect calm family walk
🌧 5. Free Rainy Day Backup
London weather can change quickly — always have a backup.
Best options:
- Science Museum
- Young V&A
- British Museum
👉 All free and indoor
For more ideas, see our full guide on Spring Activities in London for Kids.
💡 Tips for a Perfect Free Family Weekend
✔ Start early (less crowded)
✔ Plan one main activity + one backup
✔ Always include a park stop
✔ Keep travel short
✔ Bring snacks
If you want more unique ideas, explore our guide to Best Areas in London for Kids.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy London with kids.
In fact, some of the best family memories come from:
- running in a park
- exploring a museum
- discovering a hidden place
- simply walking together
London makes this easy.
And that’s why it’s one of the best cities for families.
