Keeping children entertained during the October school holidays can become expensive, but London has plenty of ways to enjoy a memorable family day without paying for tickets. From dinosaur-filled museums and Halloween nature trails to creative art workshops and autumn walks, there are free things to do in London for children of different ages.
For many London schools, October half-term runs from Monday 26 October to Friday 30 October 2026, although dates vary by school.
This guide covers confirmed free seasonal activities, year-round attractions and outdoor ideas to help families plan an affordable holiday. Check booking requirements before travelling, as some free activities have limited places.
Table of Contents
Free Things to Do in London During October
1. Explore the Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum in South Kensington is an excellent choice for a free family day out. Its permanent galleries include dinosaur skeletons, fossils, wildlife displays and the famous blue whale model, Hope.
Children can explore the Dinosaurs Gallery, discover the story of our planet and learn about volcanoes, earthquakes and evolution. The museum’s gardens are also free to visit and offer an outdoor alternative when the weather is dry.
- Location: Cromwell Road, South Kensington, SW7 5BD
- Cost: Free general admission
- Best for: Children interested in dinosaurs, animals and science
The museum can become busy during school holidays. Book a free admission ticket in advance to help guarantee entry; some temporary exhibitions and special experiences cost extra.
2. Enjoy Free Halloween Activities in Hyde Park
Hyde Park offers more than a traditional autumn walk during half-term. The Royal Parks has scheduled Discovery Days: Hair Raising Halloween from 27–29 October 2026, between 11 am and 3.30 pm.
These free educational activities celebrate autumn and Halloween, with family-friendly experiences designed to combine nature, learning and seasonal fun. The Royal Parks also lists a free October Nature Roadshow at Brompton Cemetery on 29 October.
- Location: Hyde Park Learning Centre and Brompton Cemetery
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Families who enjoy nature, crafts and Halloween activities
Check the official Royal Parks event listings for registration details and any updates before visiting. Wear suitable shoes and bring waterproof clothing in case activities take place outdoors.
3. Visit London Museum Docklands for Free Half-Term Events
London Museum Docklands has a particularly useful programme for families looking for free activities during the school holidays. Its October half-term series runs from 24–31 October 2026, with activities inspired by London legends, spooky superstitions and storytelling.
Scheduled activities include:
- Clay charms: Make your own lucky charms from 26–30 October.
- Superstitious sailors: Discover Victorian sailors’ spooky beliefs from 26–29 October.
- Make a mythical creature: Create an imaginary river creature from 27–30 October.
- Spooky silent disco: Dance to seasonal music on 29 October.
- Beastly bookmarks: Make a bookmark inspired by spooky stories from 24 October to 1 November.
The museum’s free permanent galleries also explore London’s maritime history, trade and the people who shaped the city.
- Location: No. 1 Warehouse, West India Quay, London E14 4AL
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Creative children, history lovers and families seeking indoor activities
All activities in the programme are free, but some require booking. Check individual event listings before setting off.
4. Get Creative at the National Gallery
The National Gallery in Trafalgar Square is a good option for families who want to combine art with a free school-holiday activity.
For October half-term, the gallery has scheduled its Playing with Colour family workshop on 27, 28 and 29 October 2026. The sessions invite adults and children to experiment with watercolour, colour blending and Impressionist-inspired art.
The gallery is also offering free family tours, including creative tours on 28 October. These activities provide a way for children to explore paintings and develop their own ideas rather than simply walking through the galleries.
- Location: Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN
- Cost: Free for the listed activities
- Best for: Families with artistic children and those seeking rainy-day plans
Places for workshops are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Check the National Gallery’s official events page for session details and availability.
5. Discover Science at the Science Museum
The Science Museum, also in South Kensington, offers another indoor option for families. Its free permanent galleries cover space exploration, engineering, medicine, technology and scientific discoveries.
Younger visitors can explore interactive areas, while older children may enjoy exhibits about space, transport and inventions. You can combine a visit with the nearby Natural History Museum, although attempting both in full on one day may be tiring for younger children.
- Location: Exhibition Road, South Kensington, SW7 2DD
- Cost: Free general admission
- Best for: Curious children, budding scientists and families planning a rainy-day outing
Some special experiences, including certain interactive attractions, require paid tickets. Check the museum’s official website for current opening information and booking guidance before visiting.
6. Celebrate Diwali in Trafalgar Square
If your family can visit central London on Sunday 25 October, the annual Diwali on Trafalgar Square celebration is worth considering. The event is scheduled for the day before the main half-term week begins.
The free festival celebrates Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, with cultural performances, music, dance, workshops and family activities. It offers children an opportunity to experience a major cultural celebration in one of London’s best-known public squares.
- Date: Sunday 25 October 2026
- Location: Trafalgar Square, Westminster
- Cost: Free entry, subject to capacity
- Best for: Families interested in cultural celebrations and live performances
Because admission is subject to capacity, arrive early and check the official Diwali in London website for event information and any updates.
7. Take an Autumn Walk Through London’s Royal Parks
Not every half-term activity needs a timetable or a ticket. London’s Royal Parks provide space for children to walk, play and notice the changes of autumn.
Choose a park based on where you live and how much time you have:
- Hyde Park: Enjoy open lawns, lakeside paths and an autumn walk alongside the scheduled family activities.
- Regent’s Park: Explore its gardens and paths, with plenty of opportunities for a relaxed family stroll.
- Richmond Park: Look for wildlife and enjoy wide-open landscapes, while keeping a safe distance from deer.
- St James’s Park: Walk around the lake, watch the waterbirds and enjoy views of nearby landmarks.
Walk Through London’s Royal Parks
- Cost: Free entry to the parks
- Best for: Families who want fresh air, outdoor play and a flexible day out
October weather can change quickly, so bring waterproof jackets and comfortable footwear. Stay on permitted paths where required, supervise children around water and follow park notices.
8. Explore South Bank and London’s Famous Landmarks
A walk along the South Bank is a simple way to enjoy London without paying for an attraction. Start near Westminster Bridge, take in views of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, then walk towards the London Eye and along the riverside.
Continue towards the National Theatre, the outdoor spaces around the Southbank Centre and the area near Tate Modern. Street performers and public activity may add to the atmosphere, although individual performances and events are not guaranteed to be free.
- Cost: Free to explore on foot
- Best for: Families with older children, visitors and anyone who enjoys city walks
Plan a route that suits your children’s energy levels, and take breaks along the way. Attractions such as the London Eye and paid exhibitions are separate from the free riverside walk.
How to Plan a Free Half-Term Day in London
A little planning can help you avoid unnecessary travel and keep the day affordable.
- Choose one main activity. A museum or booked workshop can anchor the day.
- Add something nearby. Combine the Natural History Museum with a park walk, or the National Gallery with a stroll around Trafalgar Square.
- Book free sessions early. Free does not always mean walk-in; workshops may have limited places.
- Pack snacks and water. This can reduce spending during a long day out.
- Keep a rainy-day backup. Museums and galleries are useful alternatives when outdoor plans are disrupted.
- Check travel before leaving. Look for planned Tube, rail or bus disruptions and allow extra time during school holidays.
FAQs
When is October half-term in London in 2026?
For many London schools, half-term runs from 26 to 30 October 2026. Individual schools and boroughs may use different dates, so check your school’s calendar before making plans.
What can children do for free in London during October half-term?
Families can visit the Natural History Museum, explore the Science Museum’s free galleries, join selected activities at London Museum Docklands, take part in Royal Parks Halloween events and explore London’s public parks.
Do you need to book free London museums in advance?
Some museums recommend booking a free admission ticket to guarantee entry during busy periods. Special workshops and family events may have separate booking requirements, so check the venue’s official website.
What are the best free indoor activities for a rainy half-term day?
The Natural History Museum, Science Museum, National Gallery and London Museum Docklands are useful options. Check the dates and availability of any special half-term sessions before travelling.
Are there free Halloween events in London in October 2026?
Yes. The Royal Parks has scheduled free Halloween Discovery Days in Hyde Park from 27–29 October and a Nature Roadshow at Brompton Cemetery on 29 October. London Museum Docklands also has free seasonal family activities from 24–31 October. Check official listings for updates and booking requirements.
Final Thoughts
You do not need an expensive attraction ticket to make October half-term memorable. London’s free museums, family workshops, parks and riverside walks offer plenty of ways to fill the school holiday with learning and fun.
For a seasonal day out, consider Hyde Park’s Halloween activities or London Museum Docklands. For a flexible plan that works in almost any weather, combine a free museum visit with a nearby walk. Check dates and booking requirements before leaving home so your family can spend more time enjoying London and less time dealing with unexpected changes.
