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 For all would-be Torvill and Deans |
Alexandra Palace Way Wood Green London, London N22 7AY United Kingdom +44 (0)20 8365 4386 http://www.alexandrapalace.com |
The "Ally Pally" ice rink in Alexandra Park still remains a firm favourite with north London residents. The ice rink has a total capacity of 1,250 people and skating instruction is available. Haringey Greyhounds Ice Hockey Club use the international-sized venue as their home ground. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Southampton Spitfire |
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For budding Picassos |
172 West End Lane London, London NW6 1SD United Kingdom +44 20-7794-0800 http://www.art4fun.com |
Whether artistic or not, child or adult, you'll love painting and decorating pre-made items at the Creative Cafe's workshop. You can choose to decorate any item, be it pottery, wood, glass or fabric. It can be a whole day of inspired artfulness or amusing experimentation with materials and items for decoration can be purchased. Kids parties and hen nights are well catered for (you can even take your own alcohol to the latter). Art 4 Fun can even come to your home if you want and all paints are water based, so you needn't worry about spillages. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Palatial Hindu Facility |
105-119 Brentfield Road Neasden London NW10 8LD United Kingdom +44 20 8965 2651 http://www.mandir.org |
Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, rising like a fairytale palace over London's outskirts, is a multipurpose facility devoted to Hinduism and Indian culture. First and foremost, it is a place of worship. For non-worshippers, a number of exhibits and displays offer glimpses into Hindu beliefs and the Indian experience in general. Furthermore, the architecture and interior design are wonders to behold in and of themselves. A series of religious and community-related events are held here throughout the year. See website for news updates, photo gallery and more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Wendy Grønnestad-Damur |
 Photo: Jim Unwin |
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 Photo: Ian Painter |
 Photo: nadeem_london |
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West Ham United Football Stomping Grounds |
Green Street Upton Park London E13 9AT United Kingdom +44 0870 112 2700 http://www.whufc.com |
Over 35,000 football fans make their way to Boleyn Ground for what's sure to be an intense battle between some of the UK's best football clubs. Fans of the home team cheer on the West Ham United Football Club. For a look back into the history of West Ham United, be sure to check out the West Ham United Museum open M-F 11a-3p and on matchdays from 9a-6p. Check website for museum details, ticket information, schedules and more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Kids' indoor playground |
136 Bramley Road London, London W10 6TJ United Kingdom +44 20 8960 1515 http://www.bramleysbig.co.uk/ |
There are parks everywhere in London, so when the kids are tearing the house up, it's easy to find a place to go. But the worst thing about London is the rainy, wet weather - there are only so many times you can go to the library or a puppet show with the little ones. Thank God for Bramley's Big Adventure, and indoor playground where kids can burn off their energy on the bars and swings. There are separate areas for older children, babies and under fives, and a further quiet area is sectioned off for the parents and nannies. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Friendly and colourful |
612 Fulham Road Fulham London SW6 5RP United Kingdom +44 20 7731 7633 |
Bravura is a friendly and colourful creative art studio where you can come and spend a few hours decorating ceramics, doing a bit of glass painting, making a mosaic or designing some jewellery. There is a set studio fee of £5 for adults and £3 for children. If you feel like daubing a bit of paint on some clay, there are about 60 different vessels to choose from. Bravura is hugely popular with kids and runs the Splat Club during the school holidays, specifically for 5-12-year olds who want to get messy. It hosts kids' parties, too, at a cost of £14 per child. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Kids go behind the scenes at Cats |
Drury Lane New London Theatre London WC2E 9LB United Kingdom +44 20 7405 0072 |
Budding young thespians are in for a real treat. For £10, on the first and third Saturday of every month they can get behind the scenes of the longest running musical in British theatre history, Andrew Lloyd Webbers theatrical extravaganza, Cats. Kids aged between eight and 15 taking part in the Cats Kids Club are given a backstage tour, before playing drama games, face painting and getting the opportunity to meet some of the cast. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Amusement park and zoo |
Leatherhead Road London KT9 2NE United Kingdom +44 1372 729 560 http://www.chessington.com |
A great - and exhausting - day out for all the family. The amusement park portion of Chessington World has great rides and attractions - from kiddie rides and carousels to scary rollercoasters like The Vampire. The park is divided into nine areas, featuring everything from Roger the Dodger's Dodgems in Beanoland to the Dragon Falls water ride in the Mystic East. The park also offers a zoo, complete with Safari Skyway, and shows dedicated to everything from Dennis the Menace to princely penguins. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Glimpse Into Sir Winston Churchill's Life |
King Charles Street King Charles St London, London SW1A 2AQ United Kingdom +44 20 7930 6961 http://cwr.iwm.org.uk |
Winston Churchill (1874-1965), the greatest British statesman of the 20th century and World War II Prime Minister, is presented in this unique and historical collection: the Churchill Museum. Within the Cabinet War Rooms, the Museum captures the public and private life and achievements of the British leader and icon. Divided into five chapters, take a glimpse at the young Winston Churchill and his wilderness years along with his life as a politician, statesman, war leader and Cold War statesman. The museum has over 150 original objects including Churchill's baby rattle and his trench periscope used on the Western Front. There are also numerous documents, photographs and audiovisual and interactive displays. Winston Churchill was both historian and a significant part of history himself. For anyone interested in the history of the 20th century, this exhibit is a must. Call or check website for admission prices and group rates. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Mimers, market and a mechanical museum |
The Market Covent Garden London, London WC2E 8RF United Kingdom +44 870 780 5002 http://www.coventgardenmarket.... |
This area was formerly home to London's fruit and vegetable market, which has now moved down to the New Covent Garden Market in Bermondsey. Today, it is a collection of stores that sell a variety of goods, from antiques and crafts to pictures and handmade clothing. There's also an open-air cobbled area where miming and juggling acts can occasionally be found. Musicians regularly play in the pretty courtyards around the market stalls. There are also a few places to eat lunch or grab an ice cream. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dhruba Bandopadhyay |
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Fans Gone Wild! |
Stevenage Rd Fulham London SW6 6HH United Kingdom +44 0870 850 1059 http://www.fulhamfc.com |
If mayhem, rowdiness and public displays of drunkeness are your idea of a good time, then you will certainly want to catch a sporting event at Craven Cottage. For years this venue has been making headlines as much for the action and antics in the stands and by the fans as for the sports on the field. Home of the Fulham Football Club since 1896, football fans from all over England make their way to Craven Cottage for regional, national and international games. Capacity is over 22,000. Guided tours are available of the historic grounds; check website for dates, times and prices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Big musicals behind the neo-classical facade |
Catherine Street London, London WC2B 5JF United Kingdom +44 20 7494 5000 http://www.londontheatre.co.uk... |
The Drury Lane Theatre Royal is famous for its long running musicals, including My Fair Lady and the now departed Miss Saigon. It's the world's largest working theatre and the auditorium seats 2,300 people, and has been in use since 1663. Tours of the theatre are available every day - costumed guides take you through its history and the people associated with it - the latter include playwright Richard Sheridan, actress (and mistress) Nell Gywnne, and the clown Grimaldi. There are seats reserved for wheelchairs. All wheelchair users must contact customer services when booking. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Follow the trail |
Norman Road London, London E6 - 6HN United Kingdom +44 20 8470 4525 http://www.newham.gov.uk/conte... |
East Ham Nature Reserve offers a multitude of opportunities for a family day out, or even if you just want a quiet stroll. The reserve is a haven for local creatures, and various trails lend themselves to insect and wildlife spotting, or you could just take a leisurely stroll along the trail that is accessible to prams and pushchairs. There are nature museums within the park - these arrange some activities during school holidays (phone for details). A trip here would be a great educational experience or fun day out for children, and the fact that the nature reserve used to be the largest churchyard in East London may add a little spookiness to the day. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: George Ornbo |
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London's Finest Attractions |
London United Kingdom +44 20 7950 1777 http://www.evanevans.co.uk/ |
By taking the Evan Evans Tours, you will be able to see all of London's must see attractions. On these sight-seeing excursions you will get to see Westminster Abbey, the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Crown Jewels, and have lunch at a London pub. Whether you want a full day tour, a half day tour, or an evening tour, Evan Evans has it all so that you may pick a time that best suits your needs. The tours vary between the seasons, so be sure to check the website for the particular tour schedule. Evan Evans even has a pick-up service for over 50 hotels for your convenience. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Victorian Greenery |
14 Blackstock Road London N4 2DW United Kingdom |
Spread out over 112 acres in North London, Finsbury Park was one of the first parks established during the Victorian era. Several sports facilities operate in the park, including baseball diamonds and an athletics stadium. For more nature-minded visitors, the park also has an arboretum with numerous unusual plants and trees. Finsbury Park is also often used to host large public events such as festivals and carnivals. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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30,000 Runners Take To The London Streets |
Starts on Blackheath, Greenwich Park Finishes on the Mall, Central London London, London SE3 United Kingdom +44 20 7902 0200 http://www.london-marathon.co.uk/ |
The London Marathon's reputation as world leader in big city marathons has grown immeasurably since the first event in 1981. Each year, an estimated 30,000 runners invade the streets of London to participate in this increasingly popular event, which is sponsored by margarine company Flora. Participants are of mixed ability and age (up to age 89), ranging from the world's elite athletes to those simply running for a personal challenge, and even celebrities raising money for charity. Entries for the Marathon open the August before the event. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Run free |
West Heath Avenue London, London NW11 7QP United Kingdom +44 20 8455 5183 |
Next to Anna Pavlova's house and attached to Hampstead Heath is this delightful park. The large expanse of gentle rolling verdure is one of those places where you just have to kick off your shoes and feel the grass between your toes. It's a great spot for picnics, but there is also a cafe near the park entrance. At the bottom of the park there are several tennis courts; perfect for if you want to do something a bit more energetic. Half way down the park is an animal enclosure with an aviary and a selection of goats, deer and wallabies - a sort of mini zoo that will delight children. Each section has a brief write-up of the animal and its origin. Flamingos perch around the pond, ducks dive in and geese fly overhead, and the beautiful flower garden behind it is well worth a detour. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tony Burbage |
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Wonderful Waterway |
Regents Park Westminster London, England NW1 United Kingdom |
The Grand Union Canal connects London and Birmingham; the two largest cities in England. The canal spans 220 km and has 166 locks. Throughout its route, the scenery, architecture, and wildlife change and present a microcosm of each district it meanders through. In London, it travels through Regents Park and the London Zoo and is quite popular with locals and travelers alike. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Gorgeous Gardens |
8 South Square London, England WC1R 5ET United Kingdom +44 207 458 7830 http://www.graysinnbanqueting.... |
A fantastic space for either weekend or evening events, these beautiful grounds are available for rent and the gardens provide. The inn and gardens are over 600 years old and have a calm and serene air to them. Check the website for booking details and various services provided. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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For the Love of Pudding |
Covent Garden (41 The Market) London WC2E 8RF United Kingdom +44 0207 121 6607 / +44 0870 780 5001 http://www.ukstudentlife.com/I... |
If you're in the mood for some farcical Christmas fun, head to Covent Garden for the annual Great Christmas Pudding Race, a staple of London's holiday festivities since 1980. Here you will see hundreds of runners bedecked in fancy holiday garb as they navigate through an obstacle course-- balancing a Christmas pudding as they go! Before and after the race, there is live music and entertainment to keep the energy level high, though at this event it is hard to be anything but full of celebratory cheer. Though the event itself is free to spectators, all proceeds from the race go to benefit the Cancer Research Fund. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Famous Street, Famous Places |
Greek Street Soho Square to Shaftesbury Avenue London United Kingdom |
Restaurants, historical sites and houses of different eras speckle the famous Greek Street in the SoHo district of London. Many businesses along the street are famous, or infamous, in their own right. The notorious pride of the landlord of The Coach and Horses pub attracts patrons to test his patience. Other notable attractions are Les Cousins (folk music club), Pillars of Hercules (pub dating back to 1733), and House of St Barnabas (inspiration and setting of the Dickens' classic, A Tale of Two Cities.) Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Historic Square |
Grosvenor Square (at Brook Street) London, England W1K United Kingdom |
Located in the exclusive Mayfair district, Grosvenor Square was established in 1721 and met with immediate popularity. Named for Sir Richard Grosvenor and referenced in several plays, movies, and songs, this square has always been the "in" place to live among the aristocracy. The square's most popular reference comes in "Street Fighting Man" by the Rolling Stones. Mick Jagger witnessed a rally and riot here at the American Embassy against the Vietnam War in 1968 and wrote the song shortly afterwards. Whether you're here for the bourgeois atmosphere, the embassy, the culture, or the Stones you are sure to enjoy your visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Farm life in Hackney |
1a Goldsmiths Row Hackney London, London E2 8QA United Kingdom +44 20 7729 6381 http://www.hackneycityfarm.co.uk/ |
Adjacent to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital for children is this two-acre animal farm. The emphasis is on giving people the chance to see a real working farm in the city centre, so dont expect a mini petting zoo. Animals on the farm include cows, pigs, rabbits, poultry and everything else youd expect to find on a domestic farm. You cant feed the animals, but little ones will love the chance to get up close to real live farmyard friends. There are also paddocks and gardens for adults to stroll through and admire. The farm also runs pottery and upholstery classes in addition to a summer play scheme. Call for information about adopting animals, volunteering, farm community projects and school visits. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Officially the Royal Botanic Gardens |
Kew Green Kew, Richmond London, London TW9 3AB United Kingdom +44 20 8332 5655 http://www.kew.org |
Started in 1759 by Princess Augusta, her hobby developed into one of the most famous collections of flowers the world has ever seen. Kew Gardens is now a sprawling 300-acre riverside site housing over 300,000 different varieties of plantlife. The main attractions at Kew are the world-renowned greenhouses, each one an architectural masterpiece - the Japanese Pagoda, Queen Charlotte's Cottage and finally the Palm House! There are also various magnificent themed gardens exhibited throughout the year. The closing hours vary by season. Glasshouses and galleries always close before the gardens. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fun with those popular bricks |
Winkfield Road London, Berkshire SL4 4AY United Kingdom +44 990 04 0404 http://www.legoland.co.uk/ |
An ideal daytrip, Legoland, in picturesque Windsor, is just 3/4 of an hour from Clapham Junction station. From Lego-brick versions of famous West European sites and attractions to the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace, theres something for everyone, including Lego pigeons on the rooftops. There are rides for the older kids, but plenty of gentle ones that smaller kids can enjoy, like the boat-rides which tell classic fairy tales using moving models made of Lego. Theres also a Duploland for very little ones, and Lego rooms in cases of bad weather. Plus, parents will be grateful to the designers of the Legoland complex for keeping the Lego-merchandise at a discreet distance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: James Shields |
 Photo: James Shields |
 Photo: James Shields |
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Ice-skating, arcades and bowling |
17 Queensway London, London W2 4QP United Kingdom +44 20 7229 0172 |
Whizz around with a group of friends or take private classes at this large indoor rink. Evening discos take place at the weekend, when a 70s glitterball and a music-hall organ take centre stage - the lights are low and the music pumping. Warm up and refuel at the rink-side cafe, which supplies frothy hot chocolate, cold drinks, chocolate bars and chips to wet-bottomed skaters. Spectators have their own special viewing gallery from where they can giggle at everyone's attempts. The smallest skates are junior size 8. Ten-pin bowling has now been added, and is open from 10am. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Specially for the kids |
14 Dagmar Passage London, London N1 2DN United Kingdom +44 (0)20 7226 1787 http://www.littleangeltheatre.com |
This venue is a fun zone for the kids. What's the attraction—puppetry! Located north of Islington, the theatre features shows by local as well as visiting artists. There are string puppets, glove puppets, rod puppets and more to entertain the children. Some performances are limited to specific age groups. While here, do check out the workshop to get a glimpse into the life of puppets. A coffee shop is also on site. So what are you waiting for? Come by with your kids to see puppetry in all its forms and you are bound to enjoy as much as them! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Underwater Wonders |
Westminster Bridge Road Westminster Bridge Road London, London SE1 7PB United Kingdom +44 20 7967 8000 http://www.londonaquarium.co.uk |
This ultra-modern aquarium is one of the largest in Europe, containing over one million litres of water. Three hundred and fifty species are displayed within the three large tanks - everything from brown sharks, sand tigers and piranhas to jellyfish and tropical fish that swim right before your eyes. A "touch pool", otherwise known as the Beach Pier, allows for the assisted handling of starfish, hermit crabs and friendly rays. But the main attraction is the Atlantic Tank, where you can view divers, protected from sharks and other scary creatures, during feeding times. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gina Cheng |
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A pleasant break from shopping |
St Martin-in-the-Fields Trafalgar Square London, London WC2N 4JJ United Kingdom +44 20 7930 9306 http://www2.stmartin-in-the-fi... |
Within the scary depths of St Martin-in-Fields, you can purchase your own brass rubbing kit, choose a pattern (copies of medieval plates) and rub to your heart's delight. Or you can choose a finished rubbing from St Martin's wide selection. It usually runs to about £2.90 for the materials A word of caution to overzealous adults - children must be over five-years old. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Medieval Horror in the Capital |
28-34 Tooley Street London SE1 9BD United Kingdom +44 20 7403 7221 http://www.thedungeons.com/ |
This is not so much a museum as a gruesome reproduction of all things that illustrate the darker side of European history. Located underneath London Bridge, in a basement location with ghastly sounds seeping through the front door, this is a sort of haunted house for adults. It has won the Best Unusual Venue tourism award several times in the past. Wander through rooms depicting royal executions, vicious murders, various torture and execution devices, and even the Great Fire of London. The addition of Hollywood-style sound effects and lighting is also a nice touch. The newest addition is the Labyrinth of the Lost - the world's largest and scariest mirror maze. It's all unbelievably tacky, yet good fun in a morbid sort of way be warned, however, that its probably not suitable for small children, and all children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Also check out Halloween Fest (Oct 8-31) and Satan's Grotto (Dec 10- Jan 3). Admission: adult £14.95, seniors & students £12.25; children £10.95 Review © 2007, Wcities |
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21st Century Landmark |
Westminster Bridge Road (Riverside Building County Hall) London SE1 9TA United Kingdom +44 870 500 0600 http://www.londoneye.com |
Known as both the London Eye and the Millennium Wheel, this huge 450-foot ferris wheel on the South Bank gives a fabulous bird's eye view of London, if your stomach is strong enough. Its inception in the beginning of 2000 honoured the Millenium; and the spectacular views stretch for 25 miles on a clear day to include views of Windsor and Tunbridge Wells. Up to 25 people can fit in each of the wheel's "capsules." The wheel turns surprisingly slowly-it takes thirty minutes to go round, so there's plenty of time to spot landmarks and take photos. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Techno-teens' favourite |
13 Coventry Street London, London W1D 7DH United Kingdom +44 09068 1100 http://www.troc.co.uk/ |
The Trocadero first started life as a tennis court in the 18th century. Since then, it can safely be said that things have changed somewhat. Today, it is London's most-visited entertainment complex, filled with shops, restaurants and high-tech attractions, including Funland - the world's leading indoor entertainment centre, incorporating rides, simulators, high-tech video games, dodgems and a ten-pin bowling alley. Other mass magnets are the Pepsi Max Drop Ride, Madame Tussaud's Rock Circus, an Internet Exchange and the UGC blockbuster cinema and Metro arthouse screen on Rupert Street. This mixed bag of shops, cafés, restaurants and entertainment is geared largely towards tourists and is a huge hit with British visitors from outside London, families, and above all hungry teen hordes. Shops include high street hotspots like the Body Shop and HMV, and fast food abounds with the likes of Ed's Easy Diner, Planet Hollywood and the Rainforest Café. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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One of the world's most famous zoos |
Outer Circle Regent's Park London, London NW1 4RY United Kingdom +44 20 7722 3333 http://www.zsl.org/london-zoo/ |
The London Zoo has occupied the northeastern corner of Regent's Park since 1828. One of the most famous zoos in the world, it is reputed to contain over 8,000 different species, and the aviary is a firm favorite. The Web of Life Exhibition, housed in the brand-new Millennium Conservation Center, illustrates the bio-diversity in ecosystems as well as species. Locusts, field crickets and sea horses are among the 65 species displayed. This fun education exhibit is aimed at all age groups. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Barry Caruth |
 Photo: Barry Caruth |
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Spookily lifelike wax effigies |
Marylebone Road London, London NW1 5LR United Kingdom +44 870 999 0046 http://www.madame-tussauds.co.uk/ |
The famous waxworks museum, started by Madame Tussaud in 1835, are one of the most popular tourist attractions in London, and usually have queues to match. Now they've introduced a fast-track booking system, so you should be able to bypass the queues by pre-booking a time slot for a £1 surcharge. Madame Tussaud learned her trade making death masks during the French Revolution, and those of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette are displayed beside the actual blade that beheaded them. There are wax models of the famous and the infamous from every walk of life, some of which are amazingly life-like. The Spirit of London exhibit is where memorabilia from London's past are on display. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: kaerast |
 Photo: Saima (www.saimasays.com) |
 Photo: Claire Stone |
 Photo: Werner Ramaekers |
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 Photo: TwoCrabs |
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Paint-it-yourself perfect |
106 Heath Street London, London NW3 1DR United Kingdom +44 20 7916 1882 |
Perhaps if Picasso had grown up in Hampstead, he would have made this small art studio/pottery design shop his refuge. Picasso's Place looks like the perfect spot for inspiration. Children gather around round tables to work, each doodling on various bowls and plates. Children have a bit of fun and their parents have a beautiful piece of artwork to keep for all eternity. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Red admirals and llamas |
Rutland Road (off Shrewsbury Road) Plashet Park London, London E7 8AJ United Kingdom +44 20 8503 5994 |
The Plashet Zoo, home to numerous animals including llamas, falcons, wallabies, ornamental ducks, rabbits and chipmunks, is located in Plashet Park. There's also a butterfly house (open May-Sept only) and an aviary. It's much smaller than a typical zoo, but still offers plenty to keep the kids amused for a few hours. Plashet Park itself has tennis courts, a playground and picnic tables, making this an ideal place for a day out. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Romper Room |
The Old Gymnasium Highbury Grove School London, London N5 2EG United Kingdom +44 20 7704 9424 |
There are parks everywhere in London, so when the kids are tearing the house up, it's easy to find a place to go. But the worst thing about London is the rainy, wet weather - there are only so many times you can go to the library or a puppet show with the little ones...thank God for the few indoor playgrounds in central London, where kids can burn off their energy on bars and in those boxes full of plastic balls! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Entertain your little ones |
240 The Broadway Wimbledon London, London SW19 1SB United Kingdom +44 20 8543 4888 / +44 20 8545 8320 http://www.polkatheatre.com/ |
This theatre is exclusively reserved for children's productions, showcasing in-house productions as well as hosting other national and foreign companies. Workshops, courses and exhibitions complement the schedule of plays, musicals, puppet shows and more. The Main Theatre seats 300 and the Adventure Theatre, intended for under-sixes, seats eighty, with a café, play area and shop on the premises. A wonderful way to introduce your children to the pleasures of the theatre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ragdolly Anna and Friends |
1 Scala Street London W1T 2HL United Kingdom +44 20 7636 3452 http://www.pollockstoymuseum.com |
Model railways, teddy bears, puppets, dolls' houses and dollies are all at home in the many rooms of the two four-storey 18th century houses that make up Pollocks Toy Museum. The museum is most famous for its collection of Victorian model theaters as its namesake, Benjamin Pollock, was one of the last publishers of toy theatre sheets. A trip here makes an educational and fun day out for adults with a soft spot for nostalgia. Not to mention, children will love seeing the weird and wonderful toys of the past that have now been replaced by Pokemon and playstations. Take a look at the ventriloquists' dolls, lead miniatures and puppets, then go and buy some at the toyshop next door. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Floating puppet show |
Opp 35-40 Blomfield Road Little Venice London, London W9 United Kingdom +44 20 7249 6876 http://www.puppetbarge.com/ |
Little kids will adore this floating theatre, which shows puppet productions on a barge on the Thames (hence the name). The Barge company have been putting on productions for 20 years, and the 50-seat theatre showcases marionette delights such as animated Aesops Fables. From November to June, the barge is moored at Little Venice, but from June to September it moves down the Thames to Kingston and Richmond. Call for details of show times and places. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dave Goodman |
 Photo: Dave Goodman |
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Strikes & Lutzes |
17 Queensway London W2 4QP United Kingdom +44 20 7229 0172 http://www.queensiceandbowl.co... |
In this increasingly fast-paced world of endless multitasking, what better way to spend an evening than by hitting a one-stop destination for bowling and ice skating? Thanks to Queens, never again will you have to traipse from venue to venue in order to quell your bowling-and-skating-in-one-day thirst. What's more, Queens is also home to a baffling collection of arcade games, a pizza parlor and a bar. One could easily spend a whole weekend here, making use of all the amenities. Skating lessons are available for all age ranges, and the facility is eminently capable of hosting parties of any stripe. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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History of East End |
46-50 Copperfield Road London, London E3 4RR United Kingdom +44 20 8980 6405 http://www.raggedschoolmuseum.... |
This unique museum, housed in an ex-warehouse (which Dr Barnardo transformed into a 'ragged school' for the underprivileged), is dedicated to the history of the East End. Since it opened in 1990 it has played host to loads of children and family activities, from Punch & Judy shows to Victorian lesson role-playing. There is even a re-created Victorian classroom to find out what schooling was really like in the 'old days'. Enquire about the History Club for adults interested in the history of the East End. Various exhibitions have looked at different areas of the Tower Hamlets borough. Entrance is free, but donations are appreciated. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: inspector_juve |
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Hands-On Experience |
Exhibition Road South Kensington London, London SW7 2DD United Kingdom +44 870 870 4868 http://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/ |
With seven floors this science museum allows one to explore the history of technology and glimpse into the future. Starting at the Launchpad, where you learn the laws of science, you can move through a vast array of interactive galleries which demand audience participation. From medical history to nuclear physics, it's all covered. Challenging the perception amongst many children that science is boring, the multitude of things to press, touch, watch and think about make this museum a firm favourite with the kids. A popular attraction is the IMAX cinema showing 2D and 3D films for an additional cost. Please call before visiting, as event schedules are subject to change. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pat Joyce |
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Secluded, Quiet, North London Park |
Springfield Mansion Springfield London E5 9EF United Kingdom http://www.hackney.gov.uk/cp-p... |
A wonderful, quiet, North London park with expanses of lawn for strolls, picnics, cricket and Frisbee. There are large duck ponds, magnificent trees, tennis courts and a steep hill for tobogganing when snowy. The park rolls down towards the river Lee, and Hackney Marshes beyond and is surrounded by a high substantial border of trees removing the city and giving a secluded private feel to this spacious park. The jewel in Springfield's crown is its splendid cafe – Sparks - housed in a grade-II listed manor house, serving wonderful breakfasts, good coffee and dishes with grilled vegetables and halloumi cheese. - Jen Wight Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Battles on the Football Field |
Fulham Rd London SW6 1HS United Kingdom +44 20 7915 2900 / +44 870 300 2322 http://www.chelseafc.com |
Officially opened in 1877, Stamford Bridge has been the home of the Chelsea Football Club since 1905. The stadium is located at the site of one of the most famous battles of King Harold's reign in 1066 against the Vikings. Now, the battles have moved to the football field for over 42,000 spectators to enjoy. Fans from around the world stop by Stamford Bridge to check out national competitions at one of the best and largest football stadiums in Europe. The stadium is located in the west of London approximately 5km from the city centre. Guided stadium tours are available; check website for more information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stewart Damonsing |
 Photo: jxl_in_london |
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Calm in the storm |
Streatham High Road London, London SW16 3BT United Kingdom |
Streatham Common is a treat in the summertime, and a great place for a walk throughout the year. London is famous for its commons and Streatham offers some beautiful formal gardens, a play area for children and fairground rides at specific times during the year. During April there's a Kite Day, and nearby there are swimming baths, a skating rink and go-karting. At this park, cricket facilities are chargeable. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Feeroz Syed |
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 Photo: SENSE Magazine |
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Make a splash |
Rope Street Greenland Dock, Rotherhithe London, London SE16 7SX United Kingdom +44 20 7237 5555 |
Just 10 miles outside the city centre you'll find watery delights of all kinds - from canoeing, windsurfing and sailing to the more advanced power boating and raft racing - lie in store for all age groups and abilities. For example, you can learn basic boat control and safe handling of a dinghy in a taster sailing session, or you can learn to be a proper sailor with just 12 hours training and practice at Level One. If you've never set foot on a windsurfing board, then try the simulator before heading for the water. Courses are Royal Yachting Association (RYA) or British Canoe Union (BCU) approved where applicable. Enquire about the full range of instruction and special features like the sailing holidays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Henman hopefuls |
Rose Hill Sutton London, London SM1 3HH United Kingdom +44 20 |