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17 best things to do in London with the kids this summer

Simon Calder’s Travel

London has got to be one of the best places in the country to keep children entertained. Even if the summer holidays seem to stretch endlessly into the future, the city is bursting with new, family-friendly experiences.

Whether you are travelling to the UK capital for a day out, or live in the city and have a spare afternoon, London has something for tots to teens, no matter what their latest fixation is.

From dinosaur crafting sessions to immersive theatre, London’s attractions often host events, workshops and activities that are perfect for whiling away the hours.

Families can explore some of the world’s best museums, zoos and play areas, but narrowing down the right one is another matter.

Thankfully, we’ve done the work for you to ensure you have the best trip this summer. Forget Madame Tussauds: we’ve selected some of London’s most weird, wonderful and awe-inspiring experiences to ensure both you and your little ones are entertained and inspired by everything this marvellous city has to offer, whatever your budget – and whatever the weather.

Best things to do with kids in London this summer

1. Ride the world’s longest and tallest slide

The Slide at the ArcelorMittal Orbit – not for the faint-hearted

The Slide at the ArcelorMittal Orbit – not for the faint-hearted (ArcelorMittal Orbit/Zip World)

Whizz down The Slide at the ArcelorMittal Orbit, the world’s tallest (76 metres) and longest (178 metres) slide. Designed by artists Anish Kapoor and Carsten Höller, and architect Cecil Balmond, to mark the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics, this iconic landmark is located in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford, east London. Composed of 12 twists and turns, including a tight corkscrew known as the bettfeder (“bedspring” in German), it climaxes with a thrilling 50 metre straight run to the ground. Expect to reach speeds of up to 24km on a journey that takes 40 seconds from beginning to end. Visitors can either take the lift to the viewing platform or tackle the 455 steps. There’s also a glass floor to peer through, for those brave enough.

Tickets from £14; a supervising adult is required for under 18s, and there is a minimum height requirement of 1.3 metres

Read more: The best hotels in London, reviewed

2. Visit a city farm

City farms are a great way for urban families to engage with animals

City farms are a great way for urban families to engage with animals (Getty…

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