Henry VIII: heads and hearts 

Hampton Court Palace is commemorating 500 years since Henry VIII's accession to the English throne with a very special exhibition and interactive re-enactment of his 6th wedding.

Visitors can be part of the celebrations of Henry's wedding to his sixth wife, Kateryn Parr, and find out more about Henry's wives and daughters at the fascinating, temporary exhibition 'Henry’s Women'. The children will love donning their robes and following the king. 

BR: Hampton Court (zone 6)
Address: Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU
Tel: 0870 751 5175 (visitors info)/0870 752 7777(bookings)

The new Sea Life London Aquarium opens 7th April and takes visitors on an exciting journey of underwater discovery to meet thousands of marine creatures from all over the world. There are plenty of hands-on activities to enjoy, like holding the crabs, stroking a starfish and helping to feed the rays. For the more adventurous, The Shark Walk promises to sort the tiddlers from the toughies – those who dare can walk over a floating glass platform above the huge Pacific shark tank where five different species of sharks hover just centimetres beneath their feet.

Totally new look London Aquarium – new species, new surroundings

·       Thousands of marine creatures in exciting themed settings

·       One of the world’s biggest collections of magical cownose rays

·       Stunning glass tunnel walkway encased in gigantic blue whale skeleton

·       Spectacular and nerve-testing Shark Walk finale

·       Completely family friendly -  interactive features and public participation feeding

Take your MUMMY to the British Museum!

Although I find the British museum a bit less family & child focussed than the other big museums there is still enough to get children excited (who could resist the odd Mummy or two?). There are some good family workshops running (see below).

This great central location means there is plenty of other stuff around to keep you occupied too. some of my favourites include the Model Zone (model/railway shop) near Holborn tube, Forbidden Planet (sci-fi and comics) on Shaftsbury Avenue and, if you like music, the ubber cool music shops of Denmark Street (complete with stroppy muso staff).       

If you are looking for a bite to eat you could grab a burger in the 1950s style Ed's Diner in Soho (near Shaftsbury theatre) or grab a sandwich and picnic in a great little hidden garden behind Charing Cross Road (corner of New Compton Street and Stacey Street). 

Check here for full listings and timings

When: Daily

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The science museum is probably the most child friendly museum in South Kensington, with lots of interactive displays, short talks, childrens play areas, an Imax and some great cafes! The latest exhibition feature two of our favourite Aardman animated characters.

A world of cracking ideas runs from now until the start of November, you can catch up with Wallace and Gromit and some whacky contraptions including Techno-trousers, the Telly-scope and the Shopper 13! Join the pair as they guide you through their world of inventions to discover how simple ideas can transform into life-changing devices.

In this fun family experience see some of the greatest objects ever invented, plus some of the first ever patented inventions from the Science Museum's collection. What device in your house could you not live without? Let Wallace's expertise inspire you to develop your own idea for the next big thing and take your children on an inspirational and sensory journey of discovery. Entry is timed, so that even in busy times it is not too crowded. although there is a charge for this exhibition my family gave it a big thumbs-up!

If you don't fancy this there is still plenty to do and see, and most of it is free!    

Click here for full listings.

Follow the intergalactic adventures of Jacob, a boy who dreams of flying. Jacob has just one night to save a distant world from darkness. It starts in his back garden and ends 5 billion light years away on a planet filled with wonderful creatures and eccentric characters.

To save the day, Jacob must face a wizard, a witch, four tricky traders and an oracle. Using his knowledge of
science and his brilliant imagination, he must overcome problems big and small to reach the greatest challenge of them all — the Sun Dragon.

Tickets: Adult £8, OAPs & Children £6 
Running time 50 mins
Ages 4+

A beautiful, moving story of friendship, power struggles and creative play. We meet two characters who play together - exploring a new space, new objects, dressing up and taking turns - but struggles arise when one of them wants to be the only captain of the ship! This gentle production directed by Andrew Manley and underscored with a specially commissioned soundtrack by Tayo Akinbode, captures children's imaginations and tells a meaningful story with just one little word!

SAVE MONEY!!! Become a Polka Family Friend, and you'll get substantial ticket discounts on all Main Theatre productions, plus priority booking, regular newsletters, and much more. CLICK HERE to find out more.

Dates: 07 April - 18 April
Ages: 3 - 6
Duration: 40 minutes
Tickets: Adults £7.50, Children £6.50
Phone: 020 8543 4888
Address: 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB
Website: www.polkatheatre.com

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Butterfly Jungle at the Natural History Museum (1 May to 27 September 2009)

Take a magical jungle journey this summer.

From the dark depths of the forest floor to the heady heights of the tree canopy, experience the magic and beauty of live butterflies and other rainforest creatures. The ticket price includes a small voluntary donation that allows the Museum to claim back the tax on the whole price of your ticket!

More info here.

Tip: Get in free Enjoy huge savings with a family membership that entitles you to visit all the Museum's exhibitions, including the Butterfly Jungle, for free as often as you like. Members also beat the queues with fast-track entry to exhibitions, and can attend exclusive talks and events. Members can save even more with discounts in the Museum restaurants and shops. Visit our membership pages for details of all the benefits available when you join.

Saturday 30th May 2009 - Sunday 31st May 2009 12.00PM

Saturday 30th May 2009 - Sunday 31st May 2009 3.00PM

Tune into the newest award-winning European music for kids from Muziektheater Transparant. Join musician Bert Bernaerts and comedian Rudi Galindo as they lead children through an interactive expedition into the universe of music using electronics and new technologies. Ordinary actions performed by some members of the audience - cycling, jumping, drawing - lead to unexpected results, one thing leads to another and soon the air is filled with an interactive, visual concert. Part of City Circ.

Buy tickets for Feedback and get HALF PRICE TICKETS to see Christian Lee at Jacksons Lane by calling the Jacksons Lane Box Office on 020 8341 4421 and quoting ‘artsdepot Offer' (subject to availability and not available on-line). You will be asked to present your Feedback tickets when collecting your tickets at Jacksons Lane.

Visitor info: 

Venue : artsdepot, 5 Nether Street, Tally Ho Corner, North Finchley, N12 0GA

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The Unicorn theatre, Summer 2009

I love the Unicorn Theatre! The shows are written for kids and offer the right balance of fun and challenge and are of an appropriate length. The studios are imtimate and allow children to really engage with some high quality performances. It is also in a brilliant location near Tower Bridge, the Mayor For London's HQ, HMS Belfast and the London Dungeon! And, no, I don't have shares by the way.  

Over the summer thirty young people from the Unicorn Youth Theatre take over the Weston Theatre to create a brand-new production. Working intensively over a two week period, the group creates drama that dazzles the audience with its fiery theatrical imagination and collective heart.

The Unicorn has a great programme of work lined up to kick off the new season in the autumn, ranging from productions for children as young as 3 up teenagers and young adults!

You can be book online at unicorntheatre.com or with the box office on 020 7645 0560. 
 

Click here for complete listings  

Unicorn Theatre Visitor Information:

West end Shows

London's famous West End attracts people from all over the world! Here is a list of shows that you can enjoy with your kids. However, remember that some of these are not suitable for the younger ones. Call or check websites for prices and specific age suitability before booking.

Billy Elliot

From an award winning film to an award winning musical with songs by Sir Elton John. A bit sweary and true to the original. Not suitable for younger children or those that find  bad language distasteful. Like a Gordon Ramsey programme, but with music, dance, miners and tutu's (alas no food).

Fame

A very energetic musical based around the 1980's TV show about students at a performance arts school in New York.

Les Miserables

Set in the 19^th century, this adaptation of Victor Hugo's novel is London's longest running and most successful musical.

The Lion King

Probably one of the best-suited musicals for kids, it will be familiar to children thanks to the Disney film classic.

Mamma Mia!

Great for children if they love Abba! Tribute to the legendary Swedish band, the kids will be singing their songs for many more days after!

Mary Poppins 

Admission: £15 - £59  

Stomp 

Sensational unorthodox show of music and dancing. Known for its unconventional, but effective, use pans, dustbins, kitchen sinks, etc. as percussion instruments this bring together an extraordinary musical performance!

Wicked

This spectacular Broadway musical tells the story of the legendary witches from Frank Baum's classic, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, before Dorothy arrived. Now Wicked brings to life the captivating, surprising tale of how a misunderstood, green girl named Elphaba became ‘wicked' but her unlikely friend, Glinda, became ‘good'. Based on Gregory Maguire's novel, the show takes audiences to a fantasyland of wizardry, witchcraft, sorcery and spells. Winner of 15 major awards in the US, this has got to be worth a visit! Best availability Mondays and Tuesdays 7.30pm and Wednesdays at 2.30pm and 7.30pm.

The Sound of Music

You voted for the new Maria now see her live!The last collaboration between Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, and one of the most successful Oscar-winning film musicals of all time. Based on the uplifting true story of the Von Trapp family, this much loved musical returns to the west end in a fantastic new production by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

In 1665 the plague had claimed 100,000 lives in London, almost a third of the city's population. The following year the Lord Mayor of London was notified of a fire in the City in the early hours of Sunday 2 September 1666. Distinctly unimpressed, he returned to his slumber. Five days later the great fire of London had left only a fifth of the City standing.

The Museum of London's new exhibition will run until winter 2009. Get a real human insight into what went on both during and after the fire; who was blamed, where the dispossessed made camp and got through the winter, how the city was rebuilt and what measures were put in place to prevent such a disaster happening again! As expected there is anecdotal evidence from Samuel Pepys (rescuing his bags of gold at 4am in his nightshirt and burying his cheese), but there is also a lot more from a range of people living through the whole experience.

To find out what events are happening over the coming months click "read more" below:

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Tate Britain offers a range of activities for children and adults to explore together. These include any-time activities for families with children, plus drop-in and ticketed special activities for weekends and school holidays. The Art Trolley is stacked with fresh ideas to help you and your children get the most out of looking at art in the Tate Collections.

The Horniman has a unique range of exhibitions, events and activities which illustrate the cultural and natural world. The collections of anthropology, natural history and musical instruments provide the inspiration for a programme of permanent and temporary exhibitions and events and activities.

A full range of events and activities take place for different audiences including storytelling and art and craft sessions for children, and courses and workshops for adults. There is also a nice little cafe with a wonderful seating area in the old hot house! 

Visitor Information:

There are great family days run during school breaks where you can enjoy live music, craft activities and storytelling (see below for more details). Saturday Specials - On the first Saturday of each month the museum offers workshops, quizzes and fun activities for family visitors.  Loads coming up for families and children, and don't forget the museum has a great restaurant!

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You can join trained volunteers to get hands-on with a range of unique objects from prehistory to the present day. Touch ancient Greek pottery and coins or try on a Roman ring.

Tip: Ford activity backpacks -At the British Museum you can choose from a range of children's backpacks to borrow free! Full of puzzles, games and activities to do in the galleries. Choose from Africa, Asian Faiths, Ancient, Near East, Egypt, Greece, Mexico and Roman Britain                                                                                                              

Ages: 5 – 12 + activity sheets for the under 5s.  Trails normally take around 45 minutes. Families can borrow backpacks and embark on an adventure across the V&A. The award-winning backpacks are full of brilliant hands-on activities and include jigsaws, stories, puzzles, construction games and things to handle. There is a range of activity sheets to suit all ages, so that the whole family can have fun together. Themes include: The Emperor's Party, Chinese Treasures, Metal Detector, The Antique Detective, Magic Glasses and Fancy Furnishings. The whole range is available every Saturday 10.30-17.00, and every day during school holidays. Time: 10.30am-5.30pm Admission: free (deposit required)

Activity Cart

Ages 3+. The Victoria and Albert Museum's Activity Cart for fantastic art fun such as making a Samurai helmet, designing a kimono and creating a Chinese dragon. The Activity Cart is in different parts of the Museum on different days, and the activities relate to whatever gallery it is in - including the Garden in the summer! The Activity Cart is free and does not need to be booked. Activities last 20-90 minutes depending on the type of activity. Time: 10.30am-5pm Every Sunday. Free

Tate Modern offers a range of activities for children and adults to explore together. These include any-time activities for families with children, plus drop-in and ticketed special activities for weekends and school holidays. You can book for any ticketed events by calling 020 7887 8888. They also do a great little pick and mix children's lunch box (5 items for £3.50).

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Explore some of the thousands of objects from around the world in the handling collection. Open a Discovery Box and be inspired by toys, musical instruments, puppets, masks, the natural world and much more. Enjoy the new boxes, inspired by the Amazon to Caribbean exhibition. Go to the `Hands On Base’ 

 

There are lots of free activities for little water spirits to enjoy. The early sessions are designed for babies and toddlers. Take a change of baby clothes as some sessions involve messy activities. I went along and had a go at making a bridge with my daugter (pink inevitably).  Collect your free ticket from the admissions desk. Click read more below or check their website for more details about events for June, July & August. 

Try and go by boat if possible, as it is a great way to travel and you get an excellent view of the Royal Naval College (above) as you arrive.

Fascinating for children and definitely the one to watch is the Atlantic pool fish feeding, with divers. Times are liable to change so it’s a good idea to call first.

Create! is a programme of workshops and events for 11 - 18 year olds linked to a particular theme, which run on Saturdays and during holiday times. Numbers are limited and tickets must be booked in advance. It is advisable to bring a pack lunch for the day sessions. For families, the Victoria and Albert Museum has lots of exciting events and activities every holiday and many weekends. Activities are free and most do not need to be booked, which means you can stay for as long or as short a time as you like.  Check their site or phone for details

Science Night is an all night extravaganza with a scientific twist! Providing education and fun for children and accompanying adults, through an evening of fantastic activities rounded off by camping in the Science Museum overnight. Take part in hands-on workshops, lively demonstrations and trails based on galleries and exhibitions. Explore scientific themes, get a new perspective on science, and see the Science Museum as it has never been seen before. You will need to take a sleeping bag, your wash bag and a packed evening snack - perhaps a pillow and your favourite cuddly toy! Science Nights are open to all children aged between 8 - 11 years. You'll need a group of at least 5 children and 1 adult to make a booking. 

Check their website or call for further info.

Engines in action. They are big, old and produce a lot of steam, great!

Engines run on special days and at the weekend. Check with the museum for exact dates and events. Click Read More below for details of upcoming events for 2008.   

Other Activities at the Museum:

• Free rides on the steam train (March 2 - November 30)
• Water For Life Gallery
• Giant beam and rotative engines in steam (weekends only)
• Museum cafe and shop (Cafe open weekends only)
• Partial wheelchair access and wheelchair accessible toilet
• Corporate hire - please ask for separate leaflet
• School trips - please ask for detail

Activities for under-fives using music, African drumming, puppets and lots of theatricality. This listing is based in Holland Park, but Whippersnappers do have sessions running across London, including Peckham, Dulwich, Charlton Bermondsey, Gypsy Hill and Brockwell lido. Check site or phone for more details.

This great old church, in the heart of London's west end, has recently ungone a bit of a make over. You can venture into the crypt for a for a quick bite in the cafe or do a bit of brass rubbing. Upstairs in the church itself you can listen to lunchtime concerts that appeal to the whole family or join in some collective worship. Check their website for full details.  

When: 4 July 2009
Cost: Adults £8, Children £6
Time: 4.30 - 5.30pm
Tube/BR: Charing Cross, Embankement, Leicester Square 
Address: St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 4JJ
Website here 

Location    Plan your journey     By Car

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You can visit the International Clowns Gallery & Museum - the UK's only museum dedicated to the history of clowns. The museum is only open once a month (on the first Friday of the month, from 12 noon to 5pm). It also opens especially for the Joseph Grimaldi service (read more below) and is a short walk from Holy Trinity Church!

The Museum of Childhood and the Geffrye Museum are also near by. Over this side of town you also get some great Sunday Morning markets including Columbia Road Flower Market, Brick Lane, Petticoat Lane and Old Spitalfields. They are all really busy, really cool and you can get a wide variety of world food! If you are over this way go for a look around my favourite art shop, Atlantis, where I bought some papyrus! 

Join members of the Serpentine Swimming Club (one of the oldest clubs in the country whose members have met in London's Hyde Park, winter and summer, since 1864) as they prepare, some decked out in Santa hats, for their traditional 100 yards annual Christmas day swim. Sir James Barrie, the novelist, immortalised the race by presenting the first "Peter Pan Cup" in 1904. For anyone foolish enough to plunge into the icy Serpentine waters the temperature is usually below 40 ^oF (4 ^oC) in the winter, without acclimatisation over several months, the shock could prove fatal!  The race takes place on the south bank of the lake close to the Serpentine Café (the old pavilion).  Spectators are most welcome, but are advised to wrap up warm.

Time: 9am

Date: 25^th December

Address: Serpentine, Hyde Park

Tube: Hyde Park Corner

Website:www.serpentineswimmingclub.com

The Christmas tree in the square provides a focal point for carol singing, which runs each evening from 5pm to 9pm. Last year saw over fifty different groups of carol singers from across the country taking part on stage and it looks set to be a great series of events again this year. The many different choirs taking part will be raising money for good causes and everyone is welcome to enjoy the carols. Visitors to the square can also visit the Café on the Square, which will be serving seasonal treats or pop in to one of my favourites the cafe in the crypt under st. Martin's.

Ages: all

Times: 5pm to 9pm

Address: Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 4JJ

Tube/BR: Charing Cross or Leicester Square (Zone 1)

LAPLAND UK hits Kent (12^th Nov - 24^th Dec)                                                            

Tickets £55 - £85

Reduce your Carbon footprint as Lapland comes to Kent! This Christmas you can visit the beautiful Bewl Water Estate as it transforms into a winter wonderland. Once booked each child receives a personalised invitation from Father Christmas by post asking them to help the Elves in his toy factory. From here the children start their magical journey along the elves' enchanted pathway to learn the secrets of the forest.

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Traffic-Free West End shopping 6-7 December                                                         

Last year this event attracted over 1 million shoppers, making it the biggest event of its type in the world. This year it is being extended to two days, with Sunday focused on Family Fun! The event dubbed Shop West End VIP Day (which stands for Very Important Pedestrians) will see both Oxford Street and Regent Street cleared of traffic. Over 100 stores will be involved in both in-store and on-street activity.

Timing:

West End VIP Saturday from 12 noon - 5pm (traffic stops from 10.30am until 8pm)

Family Day Sunday 12-6PM 

www.westendvip.com

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London's Christmas Markets                                                                                        

London comes alive at Christmas with the sights and sounds of Europe. There are a number of places where you will find flavours from across the continent with stalls selling traditional Swedish, German and Eastern European food and gifts. Below is a small selection of what is on offer that includes:

• The Swedish Church
• Tower Bridge Market
• Cologne (Kolne) fair at Southbank

Or try some long established open air London markets:

Brick Lane

Walthamstow

Camden

Portobello Road

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Winter Wonderland comes to Hyde Park for five weeks this Christmas and offers an experience the whole family can enjoy. The 24,000 sqm Winter Wonderland site will feature London's largest outdoor ice rink (see Ice Rinks), a toboggan slide, a traditional German Christmas market with over twenty-five separate wooden chalets, numerous cafes and bars, an incredible 50m giant observation wheel offering magnificent views over Hyde Park, a carousel, helter-skelter, carol concerts and a selection of amusement rides to entertain all ages.

Tip: Advanced booking for ice skating recommended (see ice skating section)!

Held every year outside the Tate Modern and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, London's largest winter festival is a celebration from times past when the Thames would freeze over and Londoners took to the ice. This year celebrates the 401st anniversary of Bankside's first great medieval Frost Fair of 1607. Last year it attracted well over 140,000 people. Be prepared to enjoy hugging a husky or a sled ride, sing-a-long to festive music from the choir, watch ice sculptors in action, enjoy music, performance poetry, dance, sport, street theatre, arts and crafts and much more! You will also be able to look for that perfect Christmas gift in the winter market and enjoy food and drink including chestnuts and mulled wine. There are also guided walks around the area that give an insight into the amazing, and often colourful,  local history. 

Times: Fri 4.30pm to 9pm, Sat 10am-9pm

Tip: Shakespeare's Globe also opens its doors for free as part of the Bankside Frost Fair and Check out the Thames Cutters' on Saturday 1^th!

I apollogise for the narative, but the clip isn't bad!' 

Great Christmas Pudding Race (6th December 2008)   FREE

Established in 1980, the race consists of celebrities and members of the public in fancy dress racing around an obstacle course while trying to balance a Christmas pudding on a plate! All proceeds go to Cancer Research.

Times: 11.30am

Easter fun at  Kew                                                                                      

Saturday 4 - Sunday 19 April
11am to 3pm (last entry 2.30pm)

Miller's Ark Animal Farm 

Sessions are at 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm & 2.30pm. Note that capacity is limited, so admission to handling sessions is on a first-come first-served basis. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Location: Near Brentford Gate.

There is also a land train, the Kew Explorer, that will take you around the park on a 40 minute trip.

Visitor Info

The Oxford & Cambridge Boat Race (29th March at 3.40pm)                     

The Oxford & Cambridge Boat Race is rowed on the Thames each year, from Putney (Bridge) to Mortlake (Chiswick Bridge) in west London. The race is great to watch, albeit a fleeting glimpse of the crews as they go by. Hear the roar of the crowds as they approach and the see the huge wash created by the flotilla of following craft. Bridges are closed to pedestrians for the Boat Race. Watch near the start or the finish or you can wander along the towpath for refreshments in one of the many pubs and boat clubs on the riverbank. The Civil Service Boathouse near Barnes Bridge is always a good place to stop.  

If you can't make it on the 29th March you can always go along and watch the Head of the River race (HORR) on Saturday 21st March at 11.15am. It take place over the same course as the boatrace, but it is the raced the other way around and there are almost 450 crews!

Tip: find somewhere along the route with TV to watch the start and then make your way to the river bank and watch it go by!  

Tube: Putney Bridge, Hammersmith, (Bus 209, 33, 419) BR: Putney, Barnes Bridge, Chiswick

Website: www.theboatrace.org  & www.horr.co.uk

When: 29th March 2009

Time: 3.40PM

Where: The Thames between Mortlake & Putney

Map     Journey Planner     Driving

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Head of the River Race 2009 (Saturday March 21st at 11:15am)

There are a number of rowing races that take place on the Thames each year. In the winter these tend to be processional (time trials) over longer distances, with male & female crews taking part. The size of boats can vary too and you will find scullers, pairs, fours, quads and eights all battling it out, often in icy & blustery conditions.

The Head of the River was founded by Steve Fairburn and first rowed in 1926 and is the most famous of these Head races. It usually takes place a week or so before the Oxford & Cambridge boat race. The 420 crews taking part (including internationals) race over the same four and a quarter mile course as the boat race except the other way around, with crews starting at Mortlake and finishing at Putney. 

The race provides an amazing spectacle, with so many crews on the river and a real mix of abilities from novice to international oarsmen.   

Good vantage points to watch the race from include the Bridges (my favourites being Barnes or Hammersmith). There are lots of pubs & boat clubs along the route that will sell hot and cold refreshments.

If you are going along to watch you could combine this with a trip to the Wetlands (Barnes). it is easily reached by foot from Putney Embankment with Children. If you are on the toe path look out for the mile post (a memorial to Steve Fairburn).     

Map     Journey Planner     Driving

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Christmas & beyond at London's Wetlands SW13

This award winning wildlife centre in South West London has plenty to keep children occupied even if birdwatching isn't their thing. There are activities, including lots of interactive displays, both inside and out, and a good playground. If it starts raining there are plenty of places you can shelter, although, be warned, you will incur the wrath of the twitchers if you let your kids go free range in the hides! There is a cafe on site with children's menu available.

Christmas Stuff

Christmas Fir trees for sale - 29 November

Help support WWT London Wetland Centre and purchase an eco friendly Christmas tree this festive season. For the sixth year running, Christmas Fir will sell Christmas trees from the centre car park from 29 November until 22 December, with £1 from every tree sale going to the WWT London Wetland Centre. Make your choice easy, with plenty of parking available and your selected tree loaded into the car for you. Various size trees are available, with wreaths, stands and decorations also available. Christmas Fir opening hours are 9am- 4.30pm. WWT London Wetland Centre opening hours are 9.30am- 5pm.

Winter Wonderland Weekend - 6 & 7 December

Join in the festive fun at the wetlands this weekend with plenty of seasonal activities.  Visit Santa in his cabin grotto and shop for unique and environmentally friendly Christmas gifts in our WWT shop, every purchase contributes to our conservation efforts. Visit Santa both days, 1pm- 4pm; cost is £5 per child.

Carols by Candlelight - 10 December  FREE

Join in the celebration of Christmas with the neighbours in a beautiful candlelit service with traditional carols, readings and prayers in the centre's courtyard.  Delicious hot food, mulled wine and mince pies on sale.  Remember to take warm clothing, as the service is outside.  Carol concert starts at 6.30 pm (free entry from 6 pm).

Christmas Pantomime - The Frog Who Hated Christmas - 19 - 22 December

London Wetland Centre continues its fun family panto tradition with an all new "wetlands" production: The Frog Who Hated Christmas.  Recommended for ages 5 and up.  Booking is essential, £4 per person/per child.  Price does not include admission into the centre.

Times: 12.30pm and 3pm on Friday 19 and Monday 22. 10am, 12.30pm and 3pm on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21.

Santa will be in his lodge on Saturday and Sunday. Visit him from 11am-4pm both days; cost is £5 per child.

Click read more below for more events

Tip: If you are planning on going more that once you may wish to consider becoming a member. £58 (2+2) for the year.  

WWT London Wetland Centre

Map     Journey planner    Driving

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Ice Skating: Download the latest PDF sheet and stick it on your fridge! 

Year on year the city's open-air ice rinks have grown in popularity. There are now lots to choose from around London at many of our favourite landmarks. Sessions last between 30 -60 minutes and slots get booked up quickly so remember to book in advance (online seems to be the best way).  Remember to arrive early to check bags in bags and coats.

Canary Wharf Ice Rink 

22nd November - 22nd February

Now in its fourth year, the ice rink is located in the heart of docklands (in Canada Square Park) and surrounded by Docklands' world famous towers, including Canary Wharf. You can jump on a fast boat down from the Embankment or hop on the DLR! Close by are Mudchute City Farm & the Museum in Docklands with its nice restaurant (see pages 18 & 19). Why not make a day of it?

Tip: The Riverline operates a fast & reliable boat service running from Embankment, Bankside, Tower pier & others down to Docklands. Visit: www.thamesclippers.com

Hyde Park Ice Rink 

22nd Novmber - 4^th January

This December the spectacular centrepiece of London's Christmas extravaganza Winter Wonderland will be the capital's largest open-air ice rink. Covering 1400 m² it can accommodate 400 skaters at any one time, the rink will be created with 130,000 litres of frozen water, weighing 130 tonnes and kept frozen by 13km of piping. Winter Wonderland tickets are sure to be a big hit with children and families this Christmas.

Natural History Museum Ice Rink 

6 November - 18th January

This wonderful 1000sqm ice rink is set in the museum gardens and includes a junior rink for younger, less confident skaters. Ice marshals are on hand to assist and there is a viewing gantry and café. Also, check out the Christmas fair situated alongside, with 38 chalets selling Christmas fayre and a food court!

Ages: all

Times: 10-10pm 

Somerset House Ice Rink

19th November - 25th January

This year there's a rich and varied programme, with plenty of new opportunities for everyone to get their skates on. There are special DJ nights in January, Children's Hour on Saturday mornings and flexible weekday sessions when you can drop in during your lunch break. That's in addition to the popular Late Skate and Student Skate sessions, and a programme of free skating for schools and community groups.

Tower of London Ice Rink

22nd November - 11^th January 2009

The Tower of London hosts an ice rink in the dry moat beneath the Outer Curtain Wall. The Café Ice is overlooking the ice rink and opens daily, serving warm drinks and snacks to all of those relaxing after a stint on the ice. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Ice skating session are 1 hour long, check online or call for slot detail. Peak: evening sessions from 5.15pm and weekends, Christmas Eve and New Years Eve. Price includes skate hire.

Kew Gardens Ice Rink

29th November 2008 - 4^th January  2009

Enjoy skating on this 1000sqm rink that can accommodate up to 250 people for an hourly session, situated directly in front of the majestic Temperate House at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew. The landscape will be transformed with Christmas lights and decorations, bell ringing at weekends and Kew's huge Christmas Tree - a 30 metre high heritage Cedar.  £1 entry fee for those spectating.

Greenwich Ice Rink at the Royal Naval College

8^th December 2008 - 13th January 2009

Now in its 4^th year, this has got to be one of the most scenic of London's ice-rinks, as it is placed within the Royal Naval College. I am definitely going to try this one out! There is a café, so you can enjoy hot chocolate, mulled wine and mince pies with family and friends. The on site box office open from 8th December 2007 (no booking fee). Nearby you also have Greenwich Market, the National Maritime Museum & Observatory and the Greenwich Theatre!

Hampton Court Ice Rink

29th November 2008 - 11^th January 2009

Grab a hat, gloves and scarf as ice skating returns. The real ice rink will be located on the banks of the River Thames with the splendid backdrop of Hampton Court Palace. The Ice rink café will be serving warming drinks and festive snacks for those wanting to take it easy and relax after their skate or whilst watching others take to the ice. To enhance your Christmas experience further over the festive season, buy a joint ticket allowing you to ice skate and visit the palace.

Tip:  Save 25% when you buy a joint palace and ice rink ticket

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Watch pelicans feeding daily at 3pm in St. James’ Park (near Horse guards parade). There are currently five Pelicans in the Park; four Eastern or Great White Pelicans and one Louisiana Brown Pelican. There have been pelicans in the park since 1664.

The original London Walks Company organizes over 300 great walking tours of the city based around various themes including Ghost of the Old City, Shakespeare’s London (including boat trip) and Jack the Ripper!  The tours are pretty laid back and most are just turn up and go. Although, advisable to phone first if a large group. The cost is pretty reasonable and what’s more those under 15 go free! This would probably suit slightly older children (10+).

Watch the bridge rise for large vessels passing underneath. It opens more regularly that you would think! Just call to find out when (automated message) or there is a timetable on the website. Tie this in with a boat trip or visit to the monument or the Tower of London.

Phone: (0)20 7940 3984

A whole fish in one gulp? Not a problem for these London Zoo favourites! See Black-footed and Rockhopper penguins get stuck in!

Changing of the guard takes place in front of Buckingham Palace and lasts about 45 minutes. From 1^st March and then every other day through March (odds) and April (evens). There is also the changing of the Queen’s Life Guard (mounted) that takes place at 11.am at Horseguards, Whitehall. You could watch one and walk through St. James’s Park to watch the other (about 10 minutes by foot) For details of these and other ceremonies visit the website below. Please note: there is no ceremony in very wet weather.

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