Things to do for kids near Wimbledon
With the upcoming school holidays approaching, your mind turns to keeping the kids occupied and entertained. Allow us to help… for those living in South-West London, here’s a round up of some of the best half term activities, Wimbledon.
240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB
The Polka Theatre has been entertaining young audiences since the late 1970s and the programme for 2022 is not going to disappoint!
As well as weekly performances targeted to engage young minds with the theatre, Polka also runs a range of classes, workshops and groups that are great for letting kids of all ages, let off some steam.
Coming up over the next few months, is Plastic Fantastic, an interactive show for ages 7 and up; How to Hide a Lion, a musical adaptation of Helen Stephen’s beloved picture book for ages 3 – 6 years; The Emperor’s New Clothes for ages 3 – 8 years; and coming up in May – Snow White for ages 5+.
On top of these fantastic performances (that can also be enjoyed by adults), there are also ongoing morning story sessions for toddlers, taster choir sessions for all ages, acting classes, Youth Theatre sessions and so much more.
Church Road, Wimbledon, SW19 5AE
We couldn’t talk about half term activities in Wimbledon without mentioning the synonymous Tennis Club. And if you’re living in the nearby area, what a way to introduce your family to the history of where they live.
The Lawn Tennis Museum is home to over 40,000 objects related to the sport, and more specifically, the London based competition.
For families, there is plenty for you to do when visiting for an afternoon. New interactive exhibitions gives you the chance to invent your own sport, create a signature Wimbledon ice cream or mow the Centre Court grass. There’s a family activity trail and even a treasure hunt!
The Wingfield Café is open from 10am – 5.30pm most days, with hot food available from 11am – 3pm, so you can relax with a refreshment after a busy day of learning!
Richmond Park, London, SW15 3RS
When considering half term activities in Wimbledon, it’s important to make use of the abundant outdoor space – especially in the warmer months.
Stag Lodge Stables offer riding lessons in Richmond Park, for all levels, including complete beginners. From putting your 3 year old on a Shetland, to the 16 year old who wants to explore more advanced horse-riding, there really is something to suit all ages.
For ages 3 – 6 years who have acknowledged an interest in horses but have never really been near an animal, the Pony Park Lessons are perfect. This is a 30-minute lead-rein lesson in Richmond Park with a few other children and their parents – so it’s also a good way to make new friends with similar interests.
After this first session has been completed, your little one can move through guided one-on-one sessions with an instructor, through a programme of classes that will build their confidence.
During half terms and school holidays you can enrol your child in “Pony Week Courses”, suitable for ages 5 years +, which is a weeklong programme of introducing your child to horse-riding.
If you’re fortunate enough to have some time to yourself this half-term, have a read at our adult guide for a day well spent in South West London.