Get ready for an egg-cellent Easter weekend in London! From historic landmarks to family-friendly activities, the city has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to making the most of Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday Bank Holiday.
Planning Your Easter Adventure
With most attractions open over the Easter weekend, your London adventure is ready to begin! Remember to double-check opening hours with individual venues as Good Friday and Easter Monday are public holidays, and some spots may not open on Easter Sunday. Public transportation might also be reduced between Good Friday and Easter Monday, so plan your journey on the TfL website. Cycling or walking is a great alternative, and you can easily find bikes at various locations across the city, like Lime Bikes and Santander Cycles.
A Whirlwind of Easter Activities
Looking for a stress-free Easter experience? The London Pass grants you access to over 90 of the city’s top attractions, including the Tower of London and ZSL London Zoo. This pass can save you up to 55% on sightseeing, making it a worthwhile investment.
Good Friday offers a plethora of events. Witness The Passion of Jesus, a free theatrical performance in Trafalgar Square featuring 100 performers. This realistic portrayal of the crucifixion may not be suitable for all ages, so parental guidance is advised. For a more traditional Good Friday experience, head to the Royal Albert Hall for a performance of Handel’s Messiah. Looking for something a little more active? Dress up and join the London Easter 10k in Regent’s Park, complete with an Adult Fun Run and Children’s Race. It’s a fantastic way to burn off those Easter eggs!
Exploring Hidden Gems
Easter trails are a fantastic way to explore London’s hidden gems while enjoying the holiday spirit. Head to Hampton Court Palace for the Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt, where you can uncover hidden gold bunnies and their stories throughout the palace gardens. For a more adventurous experience, take on the themed challenges of the BucketRace Easter Hunt in Golden Square. At London Zoo, families can learn about egg-laying creatures and participate in the Zoonormous Egg Hunt. And don’t miss the Spring Fair at the Horniman Museum & Gardens, where you can enjoy seasonal fun and games, live music, arts and crafts, and much more.
A Maritime Adventure
Step back in time at Cutty Sark, the fastest tea clipper of its time. Join in on workshops, follow a family trail, and discover play boxes hidden throughout the ship. Nearby, the National Maritime Museum offers a range of creative workshops that encourage visitors to learn about protecting our environment. Make flowers from recycled materials, create a large-scale ocean creature image, or craft your own mini ecosystem – there’s something for everyone! After exploring the maritime wonders, take a stroll through Greenwich Park, climb the hill to the Royal Observatory, and stand astride the Prime Meridian for breathtaking views of the city. Then, head down to the bustling Greenwich Market for a bite to eat and browse the unique stalls.
Dinosaur Encounters & Magical Mischief
The Natural History Museum is a must-visit for families. Marvel at the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, showcasing the beauty of our planet through captivating photography. For a hands-on experience, meet the modern-day relatives of dinosaurs at the Jurassic Encounters animal handling show. If you’re feeling adventurous, join an Out-of-Hours Dino Tour and explore the Dinosaurs gallery before the public arrives.
Prepare for a magical journey at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. The Magical Mischief event invites you to explore the film sets and uncover the secrets behind the special effects used to create the magical world of Harry Potter. Walk through the Great Hall, discover the secrets behind the Invisibility Cloak and flying acceptance letters, and even try your hand at making an origami howler.
Medieval Mayhem & Delicious Delights
Embark on a historical journey at the Tower of London, where you can explore the historic grounds and learn about the legends that surround this iconic landmark. Indulge in a traditional Easter Sunday lunch with a roast lamb or ham at a charming pub like The Devonshire, The Holly Bush, or the Camberwell Arms. Alternatively, book a table at Blacklock or Hawksmoor, which have restaurants across the capital. After a leisurely stroll along the river, enjoy a delicious meal at the Trafalgar Tavern in Greenwich, a local landmark favored by Charles Dickens. It’s the perfect spot to tuck into a traditional Sunday roast with stunning views of the Thames.
Explore London’s Green Spaces
London is a National Park City, bursting with green spaces and parkland. Make the most of the Easter weekend by exploring these tranquil havens. Enjoy the beautiful gardens, outdoor theatre, and ZSL London Zoo at Regent’s Park. Take a leisurely stroll through Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park, or relax by the pond in St. James’s Park with the resident pelicans. For a different kind of adventure, visit the WWT London Wetland Centre in Barnes, where you can encounter various habitats and wildlife. Little ones will love the Bing and his friends kids’ trail, which encourages them to learn about wetland nature. For more family fun, visit one of London’s many city farms or explore a National Trust estate.
Artistic Exploration
For a family-friendly artistic experience, visit the National Gallery and embark on The Keeper of Paintings and the Palette of Perception, a free digital trail designed for children aged 7-11. This immersive AR adventure encourages young visitors to analyze and ask questions about the masterpieces on display.
A Memorable Easter in London
With so many exciting attractions and activities to choose from, London offers an unforgettable Easter experience for the whole family. Enjoy delicious food, explore historic landmarks, engage in exciting workshops, and discover the beauty of the city’s green spaces. This Easter, make memories that will last a lifetime in London!
