London comes alive with springtime cheer during Easter weekend, offering a delightful blend of tradition and modern thrills for every visitor. With a calendar jam-packed with events, attractions, and activities, you’ll find plenty to keep the whole family entertained.
Plan Your Easter Escape: Public Holidays and Transportation
While most attractions remain open during Easter weekend, remember that Good Friday (29 March) and Easter Monday (1 April) are public holidays, so some venues might operate on a reduced schedule. Easter Sunday (31 March) may also see limited opening hours. Be sure to check the website of each venue in advance to avoid disappointment.
Public transportation services, including the London Underground, may also have reduced services between Good Friday and Easter Monday. Plan your journeys using the TfL website and consider cycling or walking wherever possible. You can easily find bike-sharing schemes like Lime Bikes and Santander Cycles scattered across the capital.
Easter Fun for Everyone: A Guide to Unforgettable Experiences
Embrace the Easter Spirit: Performances, Events, and Activities
Celebrate the Easter season with a touch of magic! Witness a spectacular free performance of The Passion of Jesus in Trafalgar Square on Good Friday (29 March), featuring 100 performers. This theatrical production offers a moving interpretation of the crucifixion, making it a heartfelt experience for all ages (parental guidance advised).
Delve into musical traditions with a traditional Good Friday performance of Handel’s Messiah at the Royal Albert Hall (29 March). Or, embrace the spirit of competition at the annual London Easter 10k in Regent’s Park, where you can dress up and race for Easter goodies in the Adult Fun Run and Children’s Race.
Easter Egg Hunts and More: Adventures for Every Age
Head out on an exciting Easter egg hunt! Hampton Court Palace welcomes the Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt (23 March – 14 April), sending you on a delightful adventure through its sprawling gardens.
For a fun-filled challenge, try the BucketRace Easter Hunt at Golden Square near Piccadilly Circus with its themed challenges. Unleash your inner explorer at ZSL London Zoo where you can learn about egg-laying creatures and join the Zoonormous Egg Hunt.
Experience a vibrant springtime fair at the Horniman Museum & Gardens (8 April). Enjoy live music, arts and crafts, tours, and a host of other family-friendly activities. Don’t miss the museum’s captivating collections, aquarium, and butterfly house.
Discover Historical Treasures: Unveiling London’s Past
Step back in time at Cutty Sark, the fastest tea clipper of its time. Join a family-friendly trail, uncover interactive play boxes, and watch shanty singers and costumed actors bring history to life. Explore the nearby National Maritime Museum, where you can participate in creative workshops focused on protecting our natural environment.
Experience the majesty of Greenwich Park, where you can climb the hill to the Royal Observatory, stand astride Prime Meridian, and enjoy breathtaking views of the city. After your climb, refuel and explore the vibrant stalls of Greenwich Market.
Explore Natural Wonders: From Wildlife to Gardens
The Natural History Museum offers a day filled with wonder for all ages. Immerse yourself in the beauty of our planet at the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition (open until 30 June). For a hands-on experience, meet the modern-day relatives of dinosaurs at Jurassic Encounters, the animal handling show (10 April; £8 per person).
Journey back in time with Out-of-Hours Dino Tours (9 am-10 am; adult £25, child £17; suitable for ages 11+). These exclusive tours offer a glimpse into the Dinosaurs gallery before it opens to the public.
Step into the World of Magic: Harry Potter Studio Tour
Return to the iconic Harry Potter film series at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. The Magical Mischief experience, returning for its third year, celebrates the film-making magic behind the magical pranks and mishaps you saw on-screen.
Start your journey in the Great Hall, dressed for O.W.L examinations under Professor Umbridge’s watchful eye, as seen in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Discover the secrets behind the Invisibility Cloak and Harry’s flying acceptance letters and try your hand at making an origami howler.
Savor Traditional Easter Delights: A Feast for the Senses
Experience the quintessential British Easter Sunday tradition with a delicious roast lamb or ham lunch. Make a reservation at one of London’s charming pubs, such as The Devonshire in Soho, The Holly Bush in Hampstead, or the Camberwell Arms. For a fine dining experience, choose from Blacklock or Hawksmoor, with restaurants across the capital.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the River Thames and end your day at the Trafalgar Tavern in Greenwich. This historic landmark, a favorite of Charles Dickens, overlooks the Thames and offers the perfect setting for a traditional Sunday roast.
Embrace London’s Green Spaces: From Royal Parks to Wetlands
London, the world’s first National Park City, boasts a treasure trove of green spaces and parkland. Explore the Royal Parks, including Regent’s Park, Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, and St James’s Park with its resident pelicans.
Venture to Barnes to visit the WWT London Wetland Centre, where you can encounter diverse habitats and wildlife. Little ones can learn about wetland nature with Bing and his friends on the kids’ trail. Enjoy other family-friendly excursions like city farms and National Trust estates.
Engage with Art and History: A Cultural Journey
The National Gallery offers a family-friendly trail, The Keeper of Paintings and the Palette of Perception. This free digital trail, perfect for children aged 7-11, encourages young visitors to analyze and ask questions about masterpieces through an immersive AR adventure.
Plan Your Perfect Easter Weekend in London
London’s Easter weekend promises a vibrant mix of tradition and innovation, offering something for everyone. From captivating performances and enchanting egg hunts to historical adventures and vibrant green spaces, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories. Don’t forget to check venue websites for opening hours and plan your transportation in advance. Have a wonderful Easter in London!
