October Half Term in South London

October half term is one of my favourite school breaks of the year. It sits in that sweet spot between the back-to-school chaos of September and the run up to Christmas. The leaves are turning, the days are crisp (or soggy, depending on the weather gods), and suddenly you’re faced with a whole week, or quite possibly two, to keep the kids entertained. We’re in the borough of Bromley, so have 2 weeks to find things to do.

If you’re a South London parent or carer, you’ll know how lucky we are, as this corner of the capital is packed with parks, museums, quirky venues and family-friendly activities. Whether you want free adventures, rainy-day saviours, or something a little spookier to tie in with Halloween, South London’s is a pretty good place in the country to be (in my opinion)

Here’s a round-up of the best things to do with kids in South London during October half term, plus a few extra ideas that are worth perhaps hopping on the train for.

*This article is will be updated as-and-when more info comes out, as many attractions haven’t announced their activities just yet for 2025! The Prices correct at the time of writing, but click through to each venue to check up to date pricing and info. 

Outdoor Adventures (if the weather plays nice)

1. Crystal Palace Park Dinosaurs

Crystal Palace Park is legendary for its Victorian dinosaur sculptures. They might not be scientifically accurate anymore, but they’re still magical for children. October is a great time to wander the dinosaur trail, crunching through autumn leaves. There’s also a maze, a boating lake, and plenty of space to run wild. They’ve been recently renovating the dinosaur park, so definitely check before heading there what the current situation is with this. My Mother-in-Law took my littlest there last month (August 25) and they weren’t finished yet.

Top tip: Pack a thermos of hot chocolate and make a day of it. There’s a playground too, so you can warm your hands while the kids burn off energy.

2. Greenwich Park, Observatory & National Maritime Museum

Greenwich Park in autumn is gorgeous. Kids can climb the hill to the Royal Observatory, roll down (because why not), and then you can all enjoy the panoramic view of London. The playground is a big hit with younger children, and if you’ve got older ones, the National Maritime Museum (free entry!) is right next door. The Maritime museum has loads of activities this coming half term that are cheap or free – check out what they have on offer here.

Half-term highlight: The Royal Observatory often runs family workshops and planetarium shows during school holidays — check their listings in advance.

3. Battersea Park Zoo

Tucked away inside Battersea Park, the Battersea Park Zoo is perfect for younger kids, and it’s one we’ve always loved! Expect meerkats, otters, monkeys, and farm animals – nothing overwhelming, just smaller animal encounters that fit nicely into a half-day trip.

Why October? The zoo usually hosts special Halloween trails or activities during half term, adding an extra layer of fun.

4. Morden Hall Park

If you want something that feels more countryside than city, head to this National Trust gem in Morden. You’ve got riverside walks, stepping stones, ducks to feed, and plenty of nature to discover. The autumn colours here are dreamy, and there’s often a themed trail for kids. It’s free to enter (though you’ll have to pay for parking if you drive).

Rainy Day Lifesavers

Let’s be honest, October half term usually comes with at least one day of torrential rain! Luckily, South London has indoor options galore.

5. Horniman Museum & Gardens

A South London classic. The Horniman is quirky, friendly, and perfect for kids. The natural history gallery (with its famous overstuffed walrus) is always a winner, and the aquarium is great for little ones.

Half-term fun: They usually put on extra family events during school holidays. The gardens and animal walk are fab if you get a dry spell too.

6. Discover Children’s Story Centre (Stratford)

Okay, technically East London, but it’s just a quick hop on the Overground from South London, and if your kids love stories, it’s worth the journey. Interactive play spaces, immersive exhibitions, and workshops with authors often run in half term.

7. Science Gallery London (London Bridge)

This hidden gem near Guy’s Hospital is brilliant for older kids and teens, and one we’re looking to try this half term! It’s free, hands-on, and designed to spark curiosity with ever-changing exhibitions blending science and art.

8. Soft Play & Trampoline Parks

When the rain really won’t let up, sometimes you just need to let them bounce, climb, and slide it out of their system. South London has some solid options:

• Flip Out Wandsworth (trampolines galore)

• Oxygen Croydon (trampoline + ninja warrior style activities)

• Beckenham Soft Play at The Spa (perfect for younger kids)

Pack coffee. You’ll need it!

Halloween & Spooky Fun

Half term usually coincides with Halloween – and South London knows how to celebrate.

9. Morden Hall Park Pumpkin Carving

The National Trust loves a themed trail, and pumpkins + autumn leaves = the perfect half-term outing. Kids can carve pumpkins at Morden Hall this half term, and there’s no need to book! More info here.

10. Enchanted Halloween at Chessington World of Adventures

Chessington’s Enchanted Halloween transforms the park into a sparkling autumn wonderland, filled with glowing lights, playful ghosts, and costumed characters around every corner. Little ones can enjoy trick-or-treating trails and toddler-friendly stage shows, while the whole family can take part in the lively parade. Fancy dress is all part of the fun, think pirates, pumpkins, and witches galore. As dusk settles, a selection of rides stay open late, letting you soak up the magical theme park atmosphere under the evening sky.

Creative & Cultural Days Out

11. Southbank Centre

The Southbank Centre is buzzing during school holidays. Expect family shows, interactive art installations, and plenty of food stalls to keep tummies happy. Pop into the Hayward Gallery or the National Theatre’s family-friendly workshops too.

12. Polka Theatre, Wimbledon

A theatre made just for kids! Polka always has a brilliant line-up of shows during half term, from plays for toddlers to productions for older children. The theatre itself is super welcoming with a café and indoor play area.

13. The Albany, Deptford

This community arts centre often runs family shows, workshops, and interactive performances during half term. It’s smaller and more relaxed than central London venues, which can be a big plus.

14. Croydon’s Fairfield Halls

Keep an eye on their half-term schedule as there’s often a pantomime-style show, kids’ concerts, or comedy aimed at families.

Active Adventures

15. Clip ’n Climb Chelsea / Brixton

Indoor climbing walls with colourful, themed routes. Perfect for burning energy, and kids love the challenge. Brixton’s version (at Brixton Recreation Centre) is particularly handy for South Londoners.

16. Ice Skating at Streatham Ice and Leisure Centre

Get your skates on! Streatham’s rink is Olympic-sized, and they usually run family-friendly skating sessions during school holidays. Bonus: you can warm up with chips afterwards.

17. Cycling in Dulwich Park

If you don’t have bikes, don’t worry,  there’s a handy hire centre with child seats, tandems, and pedal carts. It’s a safe, traffic-free way to let kids zoom around. We really like it here and can easily spend several hours pootling about!

18. Tooting Bec Lido (cold water splash for the brave!)

If you’ve got hardy older kids (and a good supply of hot chocolate), a chilly dip in Tooting Bec Lido is an unforgettable October experience. Not for the faint-hearted, but some families swear by it! Another great place to go.

Free & Low-Cost Gems

Because half term doesn’t need to cost the earth! Here are my picks for free or cheap activities in South London this October half term.

19. Dulwich Picture Gallery

Children go free, and they often have half-term workshops tied to their exhibitions. Don’t miss the gardens outside for a run-around.

20. The Migration Museum, Lewisham

A fascinating, interactive space exploring the movement of people to and from Britain. Great for older kids who are curious about history and culture.

21. South London Libraries

Never underestimate the humble library. Many South London branches run free craft sessions, story times, or even coding clubs during half term. Look up:

• Croydon Central Library

• Bromley Central Library

• Southwark’s John Harvard Library

22. Street Art in Peckham & Brixton

Turn a walk into a treasure hunt by spotting murals and street art. Peckham Levels is a good base – grab pizza, then go mural hunting.

Foodie Fun

Because no family day out is complete without something tasty.

23. Mercato Metropolitano, Elephant & Castle

This food market has loads of choice – pizza, tacos, gelato – and space for kids to explore. It’s loud and lively, so you won’t feel self-conscious about noisy little ones.

24. Boxpark Croydon

Street food stalls, big tables, and family-friendly vibes during the day. Older kids will love the atmosphere, while younger ones can tuck into burgers, noodles, or doughnuts.

25. Brockley Market

On Saturdays, this food market is a treat for the whole family — fresh bread, cakes, street food, and space for kids to nibble samples.

Planning Tips for a Stress-Free Half Term

• Book ahead: Anything ticketed (theatre, zoo, workshops) will sell out fast.

• Layer up: October weather is unpredictable. Pack waterproofs and wellies just in case.

• Mix it up: Balance big outings with simpler days – a nature trail one day, a film and crafts at home the next.

• Factor in travel: South London is sprawling – check train strikes or bus routes before you promise a trip across town.

Saving Money this October Half Term

Half term fun doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a bit of planning you can keep the kids entertained without splashing out. Take advantage of free gems like South London’s parks, museums, and libraries, many of which run special holiday activities at no cost. Pack snacks and a picnic to dodge pricey café stops, and look out for family passes or 2-for-1 offers on attractions (especially if you travel by train, as National Rail often has deals). If you’ve got more than one child, consider group tickets for transport or memberships like the National Trust, which quickly pay for themselves. And don’t forget simple at-home fun – from movie nights with popcorn to baking together – which can be just as memorable as a big day out.

Enjoy October Half Term!

October half term in South London has a brilliant mix of potential activities to suit all needs and budgets. You can go from visiting animals in the zoo in the morning to watching a children’s theatre production in the afternoon, without ever needing to leave this side of the Thames!

Whether your kids are little adventurers who love muddy puddles, or teens who’d rather hang out in a buzzing food market, there’s something here to keep everyone happy (and hopefully ward off the dreaded “I’m bored” chorus)!

 

Like this post? Check out some of my other London adventures here

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