Explore the best of London with the kids this half term

Whether your little ones want to embrace their inner zookeeper, break the rules of art at Somerset House, or explore London’s top attractions, you won’t be short of things to do in the capital this half term… and you don’t have to spend a fortune to do them either.

The list has been compiled as part of the Let’s Do London programme – launched by The Mayor of London, Visit London and the capital’s tourism and hospitality industry which looks to host visitors in the wonderful city of London in a safe manner.

Fun for all the family

SEA LIFE London Aquarium : Discover the depths of the ocean this half term at SEA LIFE London Aquarium, where you can come face to face with sharks, penguins, sting rays and more incredible creatures. You can even jump right into the water with the new VR experience. Tickets cost £30 per adult and £27 per child – under 3-year-olds go free.

The London Dungeon: Delve into our capital’s most haunting history at the London Dungeon. Experience live actors, thrilling rides and exciting special effects during this 90-minute experience. This walk-through experience recreates infamous scenes from London’s dark past, where you can meet Fleet Street barber Sweeney Todd, investigate the mysterious identity of Jack the Ripper, and discover the dreadful secrets of the torture chamber. Tickets cost £24 per person.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour: Step onto authentic sets of the Harry Potter film series and discover the magic behind spellbinding special effects, while exploring the behind-the-scenes secrets! Wander the iconic Hogwarts Great Hall and explore the Forbidden Forest…if you dare. Tickets cost £84 per child and £89 per adult.

Beano: The Art of Breaking the Rules, Somerset House: Beano and the gang have taken over Somerset House this autumn! As adults reminisce over their beloved childhood cartoon, and kids experience a museum exhibition bound to keep them engaged, it certainly proves that there really is no age limit on the art of breaking the rules. Make sure to catch this quirky exhibition during February half term before it ends on 6 March. Tickets from £5 per child and £16 per adult, under 5s go free

Go Ape at Alexandra Palace: Ever wanted to climb the treetops and see the sights of the capital? Go Ape at Alexandra Palace offers you a day of outdoor fun in its tree top playground. Swing from tree to tree to embrace your inner monkey. Tickets from £21 per child and £33 per adult.

ZSL London Zoo: Keen to explore the jungle without leaving the UK? Then make your way over to the ZSL London Zoo. You’ll even get a chance to meet the zoo’s newest family member - a baby Sumatran tiger cub born just over a month ago! From lions, tigers, and penguins, you can wander the colourful pathways and make new friends along the way. Tickets cost as little as £26 per adult for a ‘super saver’ and from £16 per child.

Immerse your kids in culture

Tate Modern on Bankside: Visitors of all ages can enjoy a taste of culture in the city by taking a walk through this grandly positioned museum on the banks of the Thames. Discover the work of renowned artists such as Cézanne, Bonnard, Matisse, Picasso, Rothko, DalÍ, Pollock, Warhol and Bourgeois. The gallery’s restaurants offer fabulous views across the city too, for a crisp winter Instagram shot.

The Natural History Museum in South Kensington: Delve into the history of planet Earth with galleries to explore and unique treasures from the museum’s collection of more than 80 million specimens spanning 4.5 billion years. The Natural History Museum also hosts late night events and activities, from yoga and silent discos to dinosaur-themed sleepovers, so you and the whole family can relive your ‘Night at the Museum’ movie fantasies.

Beatrix Potter: Drawn to Nature: Immerse yourself in the life and work of one of the best loved children’s authors with this family friendly exhibition at the V&A. Opening on 12^th February, visitors are taken on a journey through the author’s history, discovering how her background as a scientist and conservationist inspired some of today’s most beloved characters. Children up to the age of 11 go free, £14 per adult

Royal Albert Hall – Cirque de Soleil LUZIA: From 15 – 27 February, the Cirque du Soleil sun is rising! Reopening this year, come and experience its dazzling luminous spectacle at the Royal Albert Hall. LUZIA takes you to an imaginary Mexico where light quenches the spirit and rain soothes the soul. With viewings throughout the day and early evening, it’s one to add to your list this half term. Tickets cost £95 for a standard adult, and £84 for a child.

On a budget

Experience live theatre in the West End: Take advantage of every musical lover’s favourite time of the year with some of London’s most exciting shows available from as little as £10 in the New Year Sale. With dozens of shows to choose from, including Mary Poppins, The Lion King and Frozen, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy this half term.

Imagine Children’s Festival, Southbank Centre: Running from 9-20 February for its 20^th year, this festival is dedicated to bringing families together to experience all things art and culture. Over the 12-day festival there is a whole host of events for children of all ages, from interactive dancing shows, games, and crafting, to singing, talk shows and so much more! Prices start from free and depend on the show or activity.

M&M’s World in Leicester Square: Let your imagination run wild at M&M World in Soho where you can discover candy treats and merchandise spread over four colourful floors! The store boasts a huge chocolate wall with more than a hundred M&M selections to choose from and you can personalise your choice by printing your face on M&M’s milk chocolate candies. Whilst you’re there, check out The LEGO Flagship Store - located opposite M&M World, you can discover two floors of LEGO bricks and models, such as 6.53m replica of Big Ben and other city landmarks.

The London Eye on South Bank: Enjoy amazing 360-degree views over London this February from the London Eye as you rotate 135 metres (443 ft) over the River Thames. You can spot some of the capital's most iconic landmarks and top attractions, including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace! Tickets cost £22 for children and £24.50 per adult. Also check out the Merlin London Pass which is valid for 90 days, allowing plenty of sight-seeing in the city.

Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground: Already seen the ins and outs of Kensington Palace and its regal grounds? Here’s something next door the kids will love: the chance to become a captain for the day on the playground’s giant pirate ship. Surrounded by an expansive beach-like sandpit, the kids can let their imagination run wild while parents enjoy peaceful surroundings. Free entry