Let the Kids Out in South London

It is a known fact that London is full of fun and exciting things to do and it is not just for adults. London is bursting with family-friendly sights, venues and restaurants and they are not restricted to the central or western parts of the city. You will find so much to do in South London from child-friendly cafés to children’s theatre, there are lots of places to visit.
‘I love taking the kids out’, says Angie, mum of two, ‘especially to the parks. There’s so much to do outdoors.’ So, if you are visiting London with your little ones, take a look at our guide for inspiration.

Crystal Palace Park, Bromley

For a breath of fresh air, start day one with a visit to the Crystal Palace Park It is one of the most famous parks in London and is just 26 minutes away from Victoria by train. The Grade II listed park was originally designed by Sir Joseph Paxton who wanted a new home for his Crystal Palace which housed the 1851 Great Exhibition in Hyde Park. Nowadays, it is famous for its National Sports Centre and dinosaurs. Yes, you read that right - dinosaurs.

Adults and children alike have been thrilled by the collection of over 30 prehistoric creatures since the 1850’s. The statues were created Benjamin Waterhouse and are listed as Grade I on Historic England’s National Register of Heritage Monuments. Children love finding and identifying the dinosaurs by the lake. Once they have discovered them all, you can find a cosy spot for a picnic or head over to the park café.

The Polka Theatre, Wimbledon (and afterwards The Polka Café)

Who says the theatre is only for adults? After you have explored Crystal Palace Park, why not take the train to Wimbledon and see a show at Polka Theatre ? The theatre has two performance spaces and is dedicated to shows and workshops for children aged 0-13. They have a range of shows from interactive performances to adaptations, so there is something to please everyone. Check out their website for current shows and performance times.
If you and your children fancy a snack during the interval or a bite to eat after the show, pop into the Polka Café. They offer a range of healthy and delicious sandwiches, meals, jacket potatoes and sweet treats such as cupcakes.

Andpasta

Alternatively, you can head down to one of the many family-friendly restaurants in Wimbledon. One of which is AndPasta where children can build their own pasta dishes. They can pick their own pasta, their own sauce and a ‘side’. You can find AndPasta on The Broadway.

Deen City Farm, Merton

Start day two with a visit to the Deen City Farm Park. Take the Northern line down to Colliers Wood and walk to Phipps Bridge Road. Deen City Farm is an educational petting farm that is home to a number of animals and birds. Children will love getting to know the horses, chickens, goats and other animals, and they will also learn where their food comes from. The farm also offers riding lessons all day at the weekends until 5pm, but these do need to be booked in advance.

Merton Abbey Mills, Merton

Just around the corner from Deen City Farm is the historic Merton Abbey Mills. Often referred to as an arts village, this picturesque spot on the River Wandle offers free live music, arts and crafts shops and a range of restaurants and eateries, so you and your family are spoilt for choice when it comes to food. They also have The Colour House Theatre here, which is dedicated to children’s shows.

Putt in the Park, Wandsworth

If you still have energy, catch a bus to Tooting Broadway and jump on the 270 bus to Wandsworth Park. Although it is a little bit pricey, you and your family can enjoy a spot of golf right in the heart of Wandsworth. Putt in the Park is a fun mini golf course specially designed for all ages and abilities so the whole family can play. The good news is that you do not need to book – you can just turn up. A family of four can play for £24.

With all these fun places and activities, there is no reason to leave your little ones at home. South London is full of children friendly places to uncover so just make sure that you get them included on your trip planner before you start your family adventure.