While London is awash with fun activities for young kids, it can seem options for tweens and teens get neglected in parenting guides. Here are some ideas for activities that older kids might find appealing (and not “So boring!”) in London. Many of these options are suitable for a range of ages so the whole family can go together (“Ugh how embarrassing!). If you have an older kid we’d love to hear from you about their favourite places to have fun in London. Enjoy our guide of things to do in London with teenagers.
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Ravenswall / Croywall / Harrowall / Vauxwest / Vauxeast
RavensWall, VauxWall, HarroWall and CroyWall are part of a small chain of bright, fun climbing centres – welcoming teens to face the thrill and challenge of bouldering, new or experienced. This is the place to test the mind and find the potential of your arms and legs in difficult situations.
Locations in Hammersmith, Croydon, Harrow and Vauxhall
More info: website
House of Vans London
Vans presents a space of creative expression with skateboarding, BMX biking, street culture, art and fashion. Enjoy the live music venue, cinema, and café, along with many events that are filled with learning and fun.
More info: website
Bloomsbury Bowling
Bloomsbury bowling doesn’t only consist of 8 bowling lanes, but also a karaoke room with over 8000 songs. With an American diner for before and after bowling, this is a place to celebrate or just to hang out.
Bedford Way, WC1H 9EU (underneath Tavistock Hotel)
More info: website
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Camden Market
If you want to shop, eat, dance or all of the above – head over to Camden. With over a thousand stalls, your teens will never stop discovering- especially notable for fun vintage shops, vinyl shops, and everything handcrafted.
Camden Lock Place, NW1 8AF
More info: website
Puttshack
For the group of friends looking for a bit of competitive fun. This is what modern mini-golf is about: space age tech, automatic scoring, crazy interactive courses, and a cheeky meal for afterwards.
More info: website
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Barbican
Every form of art, every form of learning, every form of discovery: the Barbican centre has it all. Art exhibitions, cinema screenings, theatre, talks and workshops are all there – you will never leave disappointed or uninspired.
Silk Street, EC2Y 8DS
More info: website
Box Park
These unique pop-up malls emit an energetic atmosphere, offering food, drink, art, and fun. Boxpark is known for its quirky and creative environment, bringing out the best of modern interests with a welcoming nature.
Wembley, Croydon, Shoreditch
More info: website
Baysixty6
Not an ordinary skate park. It is a vibrant space of learning no matter what stage your teen is at. Spacious, challenging, and welcoming: join in on Skate Camps, Skateboard nights, or beginner’s sessions.
Bay 66, Acklam Road, North Kensington, W10 5YU
More info: website
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Go Ape
Explore, and push through the treetops of London. Whether with friends and family, feel the heights and exhilaration of challenges on high ropes as you put your determination to the test. Not only is it a fun family activity, but also it’s a great laugh with the friends, amongst lovely nature.
Cockfosters, Alexandra Palace, Battersea
More info: website
Serpentine Gallery
In the midst of Hyde park- there is always something to astonish you at the Serpentine. There is something for everyone throughout the year, art, inspiring talks, and architecture nearby. Join workshops, exploring and finding your form of creativity!
Hyde Park
More info: website
Escape Entertainment
An escape room- a chilling atmosphere of pressure designed by psychologists, mathematicians and game designers. Select a theme, walk in, then witness the mental whirlpool of analysing, decoding, and a 60 minute countdown to get out.
5 George Yard, EC3V 9DH
More info: website
Star Command Laser Tag
Star Command laser tag is the definition of immersive gameplay. Techno music, ultraviolet light, and a spaceship setting, it is spirited, tactical enjoyment for even the big kids and their friends or family.
East Village, 31-34 Victory Parade, Stratford, E20 1FS
More info: website
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Oxygen Freejumping
Feel the liberty in the air through a range of different trampolines, participate in dodge ball, climb high ropes, and even join the school of trampolining. Oxygen celebrates everything above the ground while embracing social activity.
Acton, Croydon, Greenwich
More info: website
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Slide
The space of former Olympic and Paralympic venues is full of excitement. If swimming in the pools of the gold medallists, riding The Slide at the ArcelorMittal Orbit, or just unwinding in the parklands would make you smile, this is the place.
Olympic Park
More info: website
