What to do over half-term
We try to plan as many outdoor excursions as possible during the holidays. Usually this includes trips to the farms, zoos and museums. One of the great things about living with children in a city such as London is we have so many rich cultural and educational experiences on our doorsteps. Paradise Wildlife Park, in Broxbourne is a favourite haunt, although technically it isn’t in London, it takes under 30 minutes to drive to as it is just outside the M25. There are fewer crowds than London Zoo; it is slightly cheaper too, with great facilities for young children it generally makes for a stress free day out. Also because there is ample (and free!) parking, we don’t have to worry about tantrums on the Tube, which in my opinion, is always a massive bonus when planning a day out.
Cheap is great but free is even better, therefore we’ll be making use of the many parks, forests and marshes within easy reach for hours of fun and exploration. Clissold Park in Stoke Newington has a fantastic adventure playground for children, as well as a dog free picnic area, beautiful café and many gorgeous shops and cafes within spitting distance, along Stoke Newington Church Street. There is a butterfly enclosure, terrapins and deer, all within the park making this an ideal location to while away a lazy half term day. If it starts to rain, hole up in one of the cafes, they are super friendly and we have found The Fat Cat Café to be especially accommodating of young needs!
When the weather turns wet and windy, as it most likely will, museums are always a great option. There are so many child friendly, interactive museums throughout London. Our favourites at present are the Science Museum, Natural History Museum and the V&A Museum of Childhood. All three of these museums are suitable for toddlers upwards and are filled to the brim with child friendly features. What’s great about the museums, apart from them being indoors, protecting us from the wet and windy British climate, is that they offer a great and educational day out for everyone in the family, with each member being able to learn something new on each visit.
This Half-Term Break, we’re going to try and do something new, London is such an amazing city, even for us ‘mad’ enough to bring up our children here. I can’t wait to tell you about some of the things we get up to, don’t forget to share your stories and suggestions too!
