A London Half-Term to Remember

From medieval knights and deep-sea creatures to wartime exhibitions and high-flying acrobats, London has plenty to keep curious minds stimulated this October half-term. Whether your child is fascinated by history, enchanted by storytelling or simply looking for their next adventure, these five outings promise plenty of excitement and discovery.

Voyage to the Deep at the Horniman

All aboard the Nautilus. Inspired by Jules Verne’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, this immersive experience invites young adventurers to take the helm of a submarine, navigate underwater worlds and encounter a giant squid and other creatures of the deep. An Octonauts trail adds another layer of fun to the voyage.

Best for: Ages 2+ and little explorers.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 7 miles / 35-minute car ride.
Dates: Until 1 November 2026.
Find out more: horniman.ac.uk

The Jolly Postman at The Postal Museum

Step into the pages of one of the most beloved children’s books as The Jolly Postman makes his rounds in an interactive exhibition celebrating 40 years of the classic story. Follow his route through fairytale scenes, deliver letters to familiar characters and discover original artwork by Janet and Allan Ahlberg. Then climb aboard Mail Rail for a journey beneath the streets of London.

Best for: Ages 3–8 and little storytellers.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 2 miles / 15-minute car ride.
Dates: Until January 2027.
Find out more: postalmuseum.org

Cirque Berserk at the Garrick Theatre

More West End spectacular than musical, the exhilarating Cirque Berserk brings the big top to the Garrick this half-term, with acrobats, aerialists and daredevil performers delivering a high-octane display of gravity-defying feats. It’s the kind of show that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

Best for: Ages 3+ and junior thrill-seekers.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 0.5 mile / 5-minute car ride.
Dates: 21–31 October 2026.
Find out more: garricktheatre.com

Childhood in War at Imperial War Museum

Explore a different side of history through the eyes of those who lived through it. Childhood in War tells the stories of children growing up during conflict, from the First World War to the present day, through personal testimonies, interactive displays and immersive recreations. Step inside an evacuee train carriage, discover a Cold War-era kitchen and see how everyday childhood — from school to home life — has been shaped by war.

Best for: Ages 8+ and curious young historians.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 2.5 miles / 15-minute car ride.
Dates: Until 28 February 2027.
Find out more: iwm.org.uk

The Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum

See one of the world’s most extraordinary historical treasures in London for the first time in almost 1,000 years. At 70 metres long, the Bayeux Tapestry is more medieval graphic novel than conventional history lesson, bringing the Battle of Hastings to life through scenes of warfare, banquets, ships, horses and mythical creatures.

Best for: Ages 8+ and budding historians.
Distance from Hotel Café Royal: 1 mile / 7-minute car ride.
Dates: 10 September 2026–11 July 2027.
Find out more: britishmuseum.org