London is buzzing with excitement for Easter, and there’s something for everyone, from family fun to cultural delights. From Good Friday (29th March) to Easter Monday (1st April), the city’s vibrant atmosphere will make you feel like a kid again.
Plan Your Easter Getaway in London
With Easter weekend just around the corner, it’s time to start planning your adventures in London. The city’s famous landmarks and attractions will be open, but remember to check with individual venues for their specific opening hours as some may have altered schedules for public holidays like Good Friday and Easter Monday.
Public transport may be busier than usual, so it’s best to plan your journeys in advance. TfL, London’s transport authority, has all the information you need to navigate the city smoothly. Consider cycling or walking to explore the city at your own pace, and remember to enjoy the beautiful spring weather!
Unforgettable Easter Activities for Everyone
Easter weekend is the perfect time to experience London’s diverse cultural offerings. For a captivating performance, head to Trafalgar Square on Good Friday for a free theatrical production of The Passion of Jesus, featuring 100 performers and a powerful interpretation of the crucifixion. This event is appropriate for mature audiences due to the realistic portrayal.
If classical music is your passion, you can catch a traditional Good Friday performance of Handel’s Messiah at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall. Alternatively, get your adrenaline pumping with the London Easter 10k in Regent’s Park and join the fun run or children’s race, dressed up for the occasion.
Easter Egg Hunts and Springtime Delights
Get ready for an egg-cellent time at the Hampton Court Palace with the Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt! This popular activity will run from 23rd March to 14th April, where you can explore the palace grounds and find hidden golden bunnies, each with a unique story.
For a different kind of egg hunt, head to Golden Square near Piccadilly Circus for the BucketRace Easter Hunt and complete fun challenges. If you’re looking for an educational adventure, visit ZSL London Zoo and participate in the Zoonormous Egg Hunt, learning about egg-laying creatures along the way.
Maritime Adventures and Family Fun at Greenwich
Set sail for an unforgettable experience at Cutty Sark, the fastest tea clipper of its time. Explore the ship and discover the history of this iconic vessel. Participate in workshops, pick up a family trail, and admire the play boxes scattered around the ship.
Nearby, the National Maritime Museum offers a series of creative workshops designed to engage visitors in environmental awareness. Create flowers from recycled materials, join a collaborative art project depicting ocean creatures, or build your own mini ecosystem using egg boxes.
After your maritime adventures, enjoy a stroll through the beautiful Greenwich Park, climb the hill to the Royal Observatory, and stand on the Prime Meridian, with breathtaking views of the city. Reward yourself with a delicious meal and browse the stalls at the bustling Greenwich Market.
Natural Wonders and Dinosaur Encounters at the Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is a must-visit destination for families, with something to excite everyone. Marvel at the beauty of our planet through the captivating Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, showcasing the work of talented photographers from around the world.
For a hands-on experience, get up close and personal with modern-day relatives of dinosaurs at the Jurassic Encounters animal handling show. This interactive event allows you to meet these fascinating creatures and learn about their unique characteristics.
Explore the museum’s Dinosaurs gallery with the Out-of-Hours Dino Tours available on select dates throughout the Easter holidays. This exclusive tour, suitable for ages 11 and above, allows you to experience the gallery before it opens to the public and delve into the world of these prehistoric giants.
Magical Mischief at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
Journey into the magical world of Harry Potter at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. Step onto the iconic sets and explore the secrets behind the film magic. Magical Mischief, a celebration of the film’s special effects, will be returning for its third year.
Start your journey in the Great Hall, dressed for the O.W.L. examinations just like in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Discover how the Invisibility Cloak and Harry’s flying acceptance letters were brought to life, and try your hand at making an origami howler.
Medieval Mayhem and a Taste of London
Experience the history and grandeur of the Tower of London with the Medieval Mayhem event. This unique experience offers a glimpse into the lives of those who lived and worked within these ancient walls.
Traditionally, Easter Sunday is celebrated with a roast lamb or ham feast. Embrace the tradition and book a table 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, consider Blacklock or Hawksmoor, both with multiple locations across the city.
After a relaxing walk along the river, enjoy a delicious Sunday roast at the historic Trafalgar Tavern in Greenwich. This beloved landmark, once frequented by Charles Dickens, offers breathtaking views of the Thames and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
London’s Green Spaces: A Breath of Fresh Air
London is renowned for its abundance of green spaces, making it a perfect destination for a springtime escape. Explore the Royal Parks, including Regent’s Park, with its beautiful gardens, outdoor theatre, and the ZSL London Zoo.
Escape to the serenity of Kensington Gardens and neighboring Hyde Park, or visit St. James’s Park and admire the resident pelicans. Venture to Barnes and discover the WWT London Wetland Centre, where you can explore different habitats and encounter diverse wildlife.
For a unique family adventure, visit one of the city farms scattered across the capital, or take a trip to a National Trust estate, offering stunning landscapes and captivating history.
Art and Education at the National Gallery
The National Gallery presents a free digital trail, The Keeper of Paintings and the Palette of Perception, perfect for entertaining and educating children during the Easter holidays. This immersive adventure, suitable for ages 7-11, encourages young visitors to engage with masterpieces and learn about art through an augmented reality experience.
Plan Your Easter Adventure in London
From historical landmarks to vibrant green spaces, London has something to offer everyone. So plan your Easter adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime!