Has half-term crept up on you like it has us and just as we were getting settled into our back to school routines? It’s time to figure out some fun activities and outings for the holiday ahead. Enjoy our round up of half-term happenings around the city, we tried not to make it too Halloweeny…
Kite Studios Half Term Art Workshops
There is no better way to get into the Halloween mood that to participate in an expressive art class with a spooky twist at Kite Studios. Explore an array of themes through materials, in workshops running over four days. Choose between printing with gargoyles, inking and painting inspired by the famous ‘The Scream’ artwork and more.
When: 21 -25 October
Where: Kite Studios
Ages: 4-7/ 8+
Cost: £15-£30 (Book online)
More info: Website
Pumpkin Lantern Carving and Light-up Nights
As Halloween approaches the hidden oasis Dalston Curve Garden puts on quite a glow show. Stop in to carve a pumpkin during the weekend of the 19th and 20th, or come to admire all the carved creations in their illuminated glory the following week. Pumpkin Lantern Light Up Nights are held Monday – Sunday from 6pm to 9pm. Pizzas are served from the wood-fired oven on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings.
When: 19 -27 October
Where: Dalston Eastern Curve Garden
Ages: All
Cost: Free entry
More info: Website
Antony Gormley Inspired Family Workshop at the Royal Academy
Get inspired by Antony Gormley and use your body as an art tool in this free drop-in art making workshop for families, part of the Big Draw Festival 2019. In this free, drop-in workshop, draw around your body and create a freestanding sculpture, then add it to our collaborative installation as we fill the room with figures. Plus, try out our drawing challenges which will encourage you to turn your body into an art tool.
When: 27 October; 11am—3pm
Where: Royal Academy of Arts
Ages: all
Cost: free, drop-in
More info: Website
Free Drop-in Family Fun at the V&A
There are so many options for free family fun at the V&A this half-term. Check out the chill and play rug; imagination station; pop-up performances; design your own Diya sensory lamp to celebrate Diwali; or partake in the digital kids workshop where you can get creative with technology and design your own fantastical world.
When: All half-term, see website for specific workshop timings
Where: Victoria and Albert Museum
Ages: All
Cost: Free
More info: Website
Natural History Museum Ice Rink
Feel the magic of the cold: this half term marks the grand entrance of the Natural History Museum’s ice rink. An outdoor wonderland loved by all, skate with family and friends against the backdrop of the beautiful Waterhouse building.
When: 19 October-12 January
Where: The Natural History Museum
Ages: All
Cost: Children from £8.80; Adults from £12.65
More info: Website
Brick Wonders
If you haven’t visited Brick Wonders yet this half term is your last chance! Explore and be surrounded history, fantasy and creativity in the medium of LEGO.
READ OUR REVIEW OF BRICK WONDERS
When: Until 27 October; 10:00am-17:30pm
Where: Horniman Museum and Gardens
Ages: All
Cost: £4.50-£8.00
More info: Website
Boo at the Zoo
Dress up in your spookiest outfits and head over to Battersea Park Children’s Zoo for a whole array of activities. Enjoy some scary crafts, wear ghastly face painting, put your hands into scary surprise boxes and listen to some slightly scary story time. Whether you are a witch, pumpkin, werewolf, everyone is welcome!
When: 26 October; 11am-12.30pm/1.30-3:30pm
Where: Battersea Park Children’s Zoo
Ages: All
Cost: Crafts £1, Face painting £2.50, other activities included with entrance fee
More info: Website
Fairy Tales of the Turntable: Family Dance Workshop
Part of London Literature Festival: this is a drop-in workshop led by a dancer from the amazing dance troupe ZooNation: The Katie Prince Company. Learn new moves inspired by the dance company’s productions including Into the Hoods, The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party and Tales of the Turntable. The practice turns to perfect after the workshop, fill the floor and share the skills you’ve learnt grooving to a live DJ.
When: 21 October; 10:30am-11:30am
Where: Royal Festival Hall
Ages: 3+
Cost: Free
More info: Website
