Monday to
Saturday
8AM – 8PM
Sunday
9AM – 7PM
The Sidings,
Waterloo Station,
London SE1 7BH
Heading to London this half-term and wondering how to keep the kids entertained? The South Bank is full of family friendly attractions and activities come rain or shine, there’s something for everyone.
First off, prevent any ‘hangry’ episodes, (we’re looking at the kids when we say this) and grab morning refreshments from Costa at The Sidings, caffeine for you, croissants for the kids!
BrewDog Waterloo inside The Sidings has some spooky crafting for little ones age 4+ to take part in this Halloween (24th-28th October, 10-4pm), they craft and you drink craft beer – it’s a win win! Book your place here.
Once the kids are crafted out they can enjoy a ‘BrewDog Hoppy Meal’, giving them a choice of main, side and a drink for £7.25.
The fun doesn’t stop there, why not finish your visit with a hackney gelato ice cream from the nostalgic ice cream van located on the second floor and then slide your way out of BrewDog on their iconic slide – just make sure you finish your ice cream first!
It’s time to escape to a land far far away and visit Shrek in his swamp for a brilliantly bonkers day. You’ll become the hero of the story by helping Shrek save the day! This immersive and interactive experience is a magical adventure with all your favourite Shrek characters including Donkey, Puss in Boots and Princess Fiona, that the whole family will enjoy (grown-ups, we know you love Shrek). Starting off on a 3D bus experience and ending the story with a meet and greet with Shrek himself, this is an experience you won’t forget!
Located in SEA LIFE London Aquarium.
Now we want you to keep this one hush hush, because we’re about to reveal to you South Bank’s best kept secret…The Garden Museum! An exploration and celebration of British gardens and gardening, designed by OBE winner Dan Pearson.
Ok, you may be thinking that this is for adults only – but trust us this place is for everyone, even if you have no interest in gardening.
Visitors can explore the museum’s collections, exhibitions, and tranquil courtyard garden whilst seeing a permanent display of paintings, ephemera and historic artefacts.
The Garden museum is an excellent place for families; they have a range of children books and toys in the nave, interactive activities in the galleries upstairs and a museum trail activity sheet for children to complete as they adventure round.
Located next door to Lambeth Palace, looking across to Parliament.
If the rain holds off this is the perfect place to let the kids burn off some steam, plus it’s completely free!
The Jubilee Garden Adventure Playground has recently been refurbished at the start of 2022 and now has brand new installations, including a large play ship, sensory and accessible items such as talking tubes and a rocking plate, a bespoke pairs game, and icons associated with London and the South Bank. Designed to cater for all children, little ones as young as toddlers up to age 11 can play and there’s plenty of accessible opportunities for those with disabilities too, so they can join in and engage with other children.
Located at the foot of the London Eye.
Hidden away in the cool grungy graffiti tunnel of Waterloo, Leake Street Arches is home to House of Vans. The place where imagination lets loose over concrete bowls, art installations, workshops and live events inspiring every soul that rolls through its doors.
Little ones can learn from the very best, with their free one hour lessons every Friday afternoon, Saturday morning, and throughout half-term. Skate Skool gives access to House of Vans’ bowl, mini ramp and street course with kids from 5+ eligible to join.
Be sure to book in advance here.
Located in Leake Street Arches
Who’s brave enough to crawl closer to a world of creepy crawlies, curious critters and crocs this Halloween? Explore the rainforest with the forest ranger and help to crack myths around some of the rainforest’s creepiest creatures. Prepare yourself, as you’ll be less than stones throw away from the Chilean rose tarantula and race a colony of leafcutter ants to find the queen. If you’re still brave enough, you’ll finish by watching a feeding frenzy of the UK’s biggest collection of Piranhas!
Located in the SEA LIFE London Aquarium.
If you’re feeling hungry after a fun-packed day on the South Bank, see our recommendations for the best family restaurants nearby. Keep your eyes peeled on our social media, more new openings coming soon…
Instagram: @SidingsWaterloo
Twitter: @SidingsWaterloo
Facebook: @TheSidingsWaterloo
