May half term is one of the best times for families to visit London, with longer days, plenty of seasonal activities and a great mix of parks, museums and attractions to enjoy together. In 2026, many schools are expected to break from Monday 25 May to Friday 29 May, with some events and family activities starting the weekend before.
If you are looking for a practical family base, both Central Park Hotel and Royal Eagle Hotel offer an ideal central location, close to Hyde Park, Paddington, South Kensington’s museums, the West End and other family-friendly attractions.
To help you plan ahead, we have put together this easy guide with free activities, museum ideas, rainy-day options and useful family dining spots across London.
Top 10 May Half-term Recommendations
1. Natural History Museum — dinosaurs and family favourites
One of London’s strongest half-term staples for families. Best for dinosaur fans and younger children. Free entry, but booking ahead is strongly recommended at busy times. South Kensington.
2. Science Museum — interactive rainy-day option
A reliable half-term pick with hands-on galleries, family-friendly science and paid add-ons like Wonderlab. Suits younger children and curious tweens. Free general admission; book ahead. South Kensington.
3. Young V&A — free museum made for children
A brilliant option for creative families, with galleries built around imagination, play and design. Best for younger children and primary-school ages. Free and no booking needed for general admission. Bethnal Green.
4. Hyde Park — outdoor family time close to the hotel
Ideal if you want a lower-cost half-term afternoon. Suits all ages. Free to visit, with gardens, open space, children’s facilities and boating on the Serpentine if the weather is good. Hyde Park.
5. Family-friendly West End shows — easy evening plan
A strong choice if you are staying overnight and want something special after a day of sightseeing. Best for families with older children. Paid, and booking ahead is recommended. West End.
6. Tower of London — royal history and big London sights
A classic paid attraction with strong family appeal, especially for school-age children interested in history, castles and the Crown Jewels. Booking ahead is recommended. Tower Hill.
7. London Transport Museum — younger-kids favourite
Great for transport-loving children and an easy Covent Garden day out. Paid for adults, with kids going free under the museum’s admissions setup. Booking ahead is sensible in half term. Covent Garden.
8. London Zoo — animal day out in Regent’s Park
A dependable family option with strong appeal for younger children. Paid entry, and it is best value online. Works well if you want an outdoor attraction rather than a museum. Regent’s Park.
9. Free museum day in South Kensington
If you want to save money, combine the Natural History Museum and Science Museum in one area. Best for families wanting a practical, high-value day out. Free, but timed booking is recommended. South Kensington.
10. Bill’s Baker Street — kids eat free during May half term
A really useful money-saving option for families, especially if you want an easy lunch or dinner between attractions. Best for parents looking to keep costs down during May half term. Up to two children can eat free all day from 25–29 May 2026 when one adult orders a main. Baker Street.
London May Half-term 2026 | Where to Stay
Make May half-term easier with two Central Park Collection hotels in well-connected London locations, close to Hyde Park, Bayswater, Paddington and family-friendly attractions.
Central Park Hotel
In peaceful Bayswater, Central Park Hotel offers a calm base close to Hyde Park and central London. It’s ideal for families planning museum days, park walks, shopping, sightseeing and easy Tube connections across the city.
Royal Eagle Hotel
Just five minutes from Paddington Station, Royal Eagle Hotel is a practical base for May half-term stays. With fast links across London, it works well for families visiting the museums, West End, Hyde Park and classic London attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is May half term 2026 in London?
Dates vary by school, but for many families May half term 2026 is expected to fall from Monday 25 May to Friday 29 May, with some activities starting the weekend before.
What are the best free things to do in London with kids this May half term?
The strongest free options are the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, Young V&A and Hyde Park. The museums are free, though the NHM and Science Museum advise booking ahead during busy times.
What are the best rainy-day half-term ideas in London?
The Science Museum, Natural History Museum, Young V&A, London Transport Museum and a family-friendly West End show are all strong rainy-day options.
Where should families stay in London for May half term?
A base near Hyde Park, Paddington, Bayswater and South Kensington works especially well, because it gives you easy access to museums, parks, transport and central attractions.
Do I need to book attractions in advance?
Usually yes for May half term. The Natural History Museum and Science Museum both recommend booking ahead at busy times, while paid attractions like the Tower of London, London Zoo and many West End shows are better booked before you travel.
