London on a Budget: 10 Things to Do with Kids this Spring

Thank you to Uju for the FAB guest post:

There’s so much to love about London on a budget at this time of year. From city farms to walks by the canal, the city truly comes into its own when the season turns.

But the Big Smoke can put a choke-hold on your wallet if you’re not careful.

London on a Budget: 10 Things to Do with Kids this Spring

We’ve handpicked 10 fun things for you to do with the family this Springtime around town
— and all for under a tenner!

1. Shop like Mad Men
Judy’s Vintage Fair in Old Spitalfields Market is a treasure trove for fans of all things retro. Entry fee’s only a fiver and you’re sure to bag a bargain, or at least enjoy the people-watching while you browse. They’re launching a Junior Vintage Fair for kids in autumn too. (next event May 4)

2. Eat Food off the Street
Street food is hot in London and the Street Feast night market is seriously smokin’. From Big Apple Hot Dogs
(disclosure: that’s my guy!) to the Rib Man and everything in between (crepes, pizzas, ice cream, vegetarian), average dishes range between £3-£7 and entry is FREE. Arrive early with the kids to enjoy the buzz but escape the queues. 5pm-midnight, every Friday until June

3. Stay up Late at a Museum
Every year, Museums at Night sees London’s top museums throw open their doors for after-hours explorers. Highlights include a family quest at National Army Museum and a chance to play in their brilliant Kids Zone. £5 per child, FREE for adults. (May 18)

4. Join a Movie Club for Kids
Going to the cinema can cost a small fortune but Kids Clubs offer screenings for young and old at pocket money prices. We love Framed Family Club at the Barbican Centre where the diverse roster has featured everything from The Muppet Movie to classic musical Singing in the Rain. Every Saturday, just £2 for adult or child ticket.

5. Go Raving with your Baby
London babes love to boogie, as shown by the growing number of baby discos popping up across the capital. Baby Rave in Camden offers DJs, chill-out zone and themed parties for ages 0 upwards. Adult £4-£6, child £3, FREE for non-walkers (next event May 19)

6. Bomb Trees with Yarn
Guerilla knitting is a surprise craze in Europe and it’s coming to Spitalfields City Farm, E1. Knit or crochet up a storm to ‘graffiti’ the trees with yarn. Or just take the kids along to check out the sheep, donkeys, goats and fab treehouse at this lovely city farm. FREE entry! (event May 22 & 24, farm open daily)

7. Unleash your Inner James Bond
Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Green is one of London’s best museums for young ‘uns and kids at heart. This half-term they’re hosting a Spy Kids extravaganza, complete with secret missions and I Spy trail.
Tuxedo optional, entry FREE. (May 27-31)

8. Tour Blooming Chelsea!
To coincide with the famous Chelsea Flower Show, the annual Chelsea in Bloom sees local retailers compete in displays of breathtaking floral artistry. You can join the tour at anytime between 10.30am-4.30pm and it’s totally FREE. (May 21-26)

9. Run around in a Batman Costume DJ/runner Charlie Dark and the Run Dem Crew are leading a Superhero Run at Southbank Centre. It’s your chance to dress up as your favourite legend and race around by the riverside like the loony you are. All ages invited, prizes to be won. And no, you don’t have to pay for this escapade! (June 1)

10. Spot Pelicans Getting Fishy
One of the city’s most picturesque settings, St James’ Park (FREE entry) is a haven for all types of birds. But our favourites are the pelicans and if you arrive at feeding time (around 2.30-3pm daily) you can watch them dining on fresh fish. Other attractions in and around the park include the famous Changing the Guard ceremony — also daily and entirely FREE.

Uju is the founder and Babe-in-chief of Babes about Town, a city guide and curator of all things cool for parents of 0-7. She loves exploring the town with her cheeky boys Ezra, 7 and Jed, 4.
Follow on Twitter @Babesabouttown or find us on Facebook at http://facebook.com/BabesaboutTown

Uju – Founder and Babe-in-chief
http://babesabouttown.com

London on a Budget: 10 Things to Do with Kids this Spring is a guest post you might also like my post on a hipsters guide to London