Now that the days are getting longer as we head towards summer, we know that families will be looking for cost-effective ways to have fun with their little ones over the half term holidays. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the most exciting free activities happening in London this May. 

Keep reading for our top five free events in London that are family-friendly and fun, regardless of the weather!

And if you're looking for affordable childcare for the school holidays, scroll to the bottom to read about TheStrings Club's May Holiday Camps , and the ways that you can save on your booking.

1. Wander through a tropical oasis at the Barbican Conservatory

Located a few minutes’ walk from Farringdon station, the Barbican Centre has a wide variety of facilities including a beautiful indoor conservatory. Discover over 2,000 species of plants and trees, and marvel at the large-scale sculptures by Indian artist Ranjani Shettar. Grown-ups and children are sure to be amazed!

Barbican Conservatory,11am-9:30pm, Fridays – Sundays

Barbican Centre, Silk Street,London, EC2Y 8DS

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2. Explore vibrant interactive art installations at the Southbank Centre

As part of their Spring FamilyFun series, Southbank Centre are hosting a free event for families to discoverfun and colourful art installations across the site with their Mish Mash FamilyTrail. If you visit on 1st June, adults and kids can also get involved with TheMughal Miniatures Dance Party; an exciting event filled with performances anddance workshops inspired by Indian and Persian culture. 

Mish Mash Family Trail, 10:30am –4pm, 29^th May to 2^nd June

The Mughal Miniatures DanceParty, 12pm – 5pm, 1^st June

Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road,London, SE1 8XX

3. Discover the wonders of science in this interactive space for children at theScience Museum

When the weather isn’t at its best, The Science Museum is a great choice for a fun-filled day out. In particular, families are sure to love The Garden, a space for little ones to explore and learn about science through play. Within the exhibit there is also an interactive water area so make sure to bring some waterproofs! 

The Garden, 10:00 – 16:00 (term time), 10:00 – 17:40 (holidays and weekends)

Science Museum, Exhibition Road,South Kensington, London, SW7 2DD

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4. Enjoy a slice of country life at Vauxhall City Farm

Wanting to make a trip somewhere within the city that is close to nature and animals? Look no further! Vauxhall City Farm is the perfect place to have a great day out and see lots of adorable farm animals. This May half term, the farm is hosting a Spring Fair filled with farmyard activities and sheep having their winter coats sheared ready for the warmer days ahead. 

Spring Fair at Vauxhall City Farm, 10:30am-4pm, 30^th May

Vauxhall City Farm, 165 Tyers Street, SE11 5HS

5. Get creative with this family drawing session at The British Museum  

Do your little ones love to draw? At the British Museum, families can join practising artists in taking part in this imaginative drawing workshop inspired by the works of Michelangelo. All of the drawing materials are provided, and at the end you can take your new pieces of art home or donate them towards a large group piece!

Make your mark! Family Drawing Workshops, 11:00 – 16:00, 30^th May

The British Museum, Great RussellStreet, London WC1B 3DG

May Half Term Childcare Near You

If you’re searching for fun, exciting things to do with your children this May, we hope our ideas above provide some inspiration. But if you’re looking for childcare in London during May half term, then we'd love to welcome your child to our Holiday Camps at 14 locations across the capital, offering the very best in childcare and music education from 28th – 31st May.

You can book from just one day to the full experience, and there are multiple ways to save on our Holiday Camps, including 10% off for first time bookers, childcare vouchers, tax-free childcare and a sibling discount.