Things to do this October half term in London
Whether visiting London with young children or teenagers, explore The Rubens' top recommendations to keep the entire family entertained this half term
15 Aug 2023
As the October half-term lingers just around the corner, we are looking forward to welcoming guests of all ages back to The Rubens. As a passionately family-friendly hotel, we pride ourselves on our ability to curate excellent experiences for all of the family – supported by our central London location – whilst maintaining the luxury and comfort that characterises our 5-star hotel. In keeping with this feat, and to ensure that your trip to the capital is as relaxing and joyous as possible, we have collated a list of some of our most anticipated family friendly events and things to do in and around London Victoria this October. Included are ideas for the entire family, including young children and teenagers, as well as a spotlight on family-friendly activities offered right here at The Rubens.
Family things to do in Victoria
Experience the world of Harry Potter on a Warner Bros. studio tour
A family trip to London would be incomplete without a trip to the renowned and celebrated Harry Potter World. As you peruse the films’ iconic sets, including the Great Hall, Forbidden Forest, and Diagon Alley, the entire family will become immersed in the mesmerising magic of the wizarding world. This specially curated tour will enable you to explore the props, costumes, and array of objects used in the original films without any of the planning - simply turn up and enjoy!
With the pickup being at Victoria Coach Station – just moments from our hotel – families staying at The Rubens couldn’t be in a more perfect location.
Tour London and experience the changing of the guards
The famed moment of the changing of the guard only occurs at specific hours of the day. This specially curated London in One Day tour ensures that you capture this experience in all its glory and spectacle. As well as exploring the capital’s most iconic sights and attractions, all accompanied with the enthusiasm of an expert guide, your day will end with a scenic river cruise along the Thames.
The tour begins at Victoria Coach Station where you will be greeted by the Evan Evans friendly team, making it an easy trip for families staying with children.
Catch a show in London Victoria
Guests staying at The Rubens are in a privileged position to catch some of the most iconic shows in London. Both the Apollo Victoria Theatre and the Victoria Palace Theatre are mere footsteps away from our hotel, showcasing the renowned Wicked the Musical and famed Hamilton. For guests travelling with children these shows will be a sure delight for the entire family, particularly when matched with a delicious pre-theatre afternoon tea.
Family things to do near Victoria
Discovery Days in Hyde Park
During the school holidays, Hyde Park’s expert learning team lead a range of nature-inspired activities to get the little ones exploring and indulging in the natural world. These free and exciting adventures allow your children’s curiosity to roam free as they discover the underwater world of ponds, have a go at sweep netting in the meadow, or go bug hunting at their minibeast hotel.
Just a short walk from The Rubens, Hyde Park’s Discovery Days are a great way to get the entire family connecting with nature. They run from 11am to 3pm on Tuesdays, Wednesday, and Thursdays.
Discover the London Transport Museum
Narrating the story of London’s transport system over the last 200 years, a visit to the London Transport Museum offers an exciting and interactive day out for all the family. As you uncover the heritage of the city and its transport system, so too will you investigate the stories and voices of the people who have travelled and worked in the city, all whilst getting to partake in an array of enjoyable activities.
The museum is just a 30-minute walk from The Rubens, partly through St James’s Park to offer a delightful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle on route.
Be enthralled at the Science Museum
Let your imagination wander at this immersive museum, showcasing the awe-inspiring advances in science and technology. Their range of exhibitions and events allow for endless exploration as visitors can partake in different activities across the galleries. From exhibitions on Our Future Planet to adventures through the cosmos with the Science Fiction: voyage to the edge of imagination exhibitions, you can expect the entire family to become completely enthralled.
The Science Museum is a mere 30-minute walk from The Rubens across the charming borough of Kensington and Chelsea.
Traverse the Thames
A river cruise is a sure way to get the entire family excited, offering exceptional sightings along the River Thames such as the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Bridge, the iconic Tower Bridge, Lambeth Palace, Battersea Power Station, and much more. As you drift along the river you can absorb all the characterful and historic architecture that London has to offer whilst an expert guide draws your eye to key landmarks and features.
Whilst tour lengths vary, we recommend the Westminster to Kew trip which allows for an excellent day out across London coupled with the chance to visit to the crowd pleasing Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew and the many restaurants that surround it.
Family friendly activities at The Rubens
Here at The Rubens we understand that sometimes you want chance to relax and enjoy the beautiful setting of our hotel. It is for this reason that we offer an array of exceptional experiences both in and out of the hotel. For days when you want to take things a little slower this half term, explore our range of specially curated, in-house family-friendly activities.
Children's Afternoon Tea
Our Afternoon Tea is renowned as one of the best in London, and to celebrate the little princes and princesses that bless our hallways, we have created a unique Children's Afternoon Tea so that all may enjoy the delectable pleasure of this wonderful tradition. With bite-size sandwiches, exceptional pastries, and a delightful drink to accompany - a choice of milkshake, hot chocolate, tea, or soft drink - this is an experience sure to please your little people.
Children's Pastry Chef Experience
Children wanting to get active this half term will love our Children's Pastry Chef experience. with the chance to adorn a full chef uniform and visit our award winning kitchen to see our chefs at work, it is an unforgettable and unique experience. They will meet our esteemed pastry chef and learn how to decorate their own biscuits and cupcakes, celebrated with a 'Master Chef in the Art of Pastry' certificate, a personalised badge, and a polaroid picture of the experience upon completion.
Book now and enjoy a special offer
Book your stay at The Rubens for this October half term and enjoy a special Family Fun offer, including a memorable and exciting children’s experience.
Book now