the home of science, arts and inspiration

Some things to do today

Hyde Park

Daily
Hyde Park
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One of the greatest city parks in the world covering 142 hectares with over 4,000 trees, a large lake, a meadow and further ornamental flower gardens, all here in the home of London’s arts and science district.

Kensington Gardens

Daily
Open from 6am
Kensington Gardens
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Formal avenues, magnificent trees, ornamental flower beds, and wildflower meadows outside Kensington Palace make this a stunning end to our trail as well as home to the Princess Diana Playground, the Italian Water Gardens and the Albert Memorial.

John Madejski Garden & Café

Daily
10am - 5.45pm
V&A South Kensington
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Recharge and cool down in the heart of the V&A. A place for kids to paddle in the courtyard shallow pool or grab a drink while surrounded by summer planting and stunning Victorian architecture.

Royal Albert Hall Café

Daily
9 am - 8 pm (varies)
Royal Albert Hall
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Pop into our Café Bar for freshly brewed coffee, sandwiches, pastries and light bites. A selection of cold drinks, barista-made coffees and specialty teas are available throughout the day, served alongside a range of wine, beer, cider and Champagne in the evening.

Book Your Free Entrance Ticket to the Natural History Museum

Daily
10 am – 5.50 pm
Natural History Museum
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Book your free timed entry ticket to the Natural History Museum and explore the nation’s finest collection of natural history specimens.

Astronights

Dates & times vary
Science Museum
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If your child has ever wanted to explore the museum after dark, they’ll love Astronights, a sleepover at the Museum!

Antarctica 3D (U)

Dates & times vary
Science Museum
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With never-before-seen footage and the latest underwater filming techniques, this documentary transports you to the farthest reaches of this majestic land and reveals that what happens there affects every single one of us.

Book your free entrance ticket to the Science Museum

Daily
10 am - 6 pm
Science Museum
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Head to the Science Museum website to book your free admission tickets and explore their incredible galleries and exhibitions this summer.

The Earthshot Prize

Online
Ismaili Centre
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The most prestigious global environment prize in history has been launched by Prince William with the Aga Khan Development Network as a Founding Partner. The Earthshot Prize aims to encourage large-scale change over the next 10 years — a critical decade for the Earth.

NHM's Urban Nature Gardens

Natural History Museum
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The Natural History Museum is set to transform five-acres of London gardens into the country’s urban nature ‘epicentre’ as national biodiversity programme is announced. Sir David Attenborough says the Urban Nature Project will allow young people to “fall in love with the nature on their doorsteps.”

V&A trail: Explore as a family

Daily
Mon - Sun: 10 am - 5.45 pm; Fri: 10 am – 10 pm
V&A South Kensington
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This trail explores V&A South Kensington galleries, revealing centuries-old objects, hidden meanings in art, and museum wonders - from emperors’ thrones and dragons to plaster casts and wigs.

Get active: New cycle route and walking tour

Online
Footways
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Footways London map highlights quiet and characterful walking routes so you can explore Kensington at a different pace. The paper maps are available at some Central Network Rail stations or plan your quiet route via the new interactive map with geolocation

Image credit: © 3s Architects & Designers

A Taste of Germany

Daily
12 pm - 9 pm last food orders
Stein's Berlin
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Combine a German film, language lesson or a visit to the library at the Goethe-Institut London with a visit to Stein’s Berlin restaurant. The restaurant offers a journey through all of Germany's kitchen in a well-designed contemporary and cosy atmosphere.

Ciné Lumière for under 25's

Institut français
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If you love cinema, and you’re 25 years old or under, Ciné Lumière For A Fiver is for you! Whether you want to see the latest releases or discover French classics, attend special Q&As or explore world cinema, enjoy discounted tickets with no booking fees.

Can you design a colour-changing object?

Online
Design Museum
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Emma-Jayne Parkes uses her design skills and a special type of ‘smart’ material to change the perception of a grey, rainy day. Discover more about her Squid London’s colour changing umbrella!

Image credit: Getty images

Tailor-Made German Courses at the Goethe-Institut

Various
Online & Onsite
Goethe-Institut
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Study German at the Goethe-Institut London with their tailor-made courses. Whether online in their virtual classrooms at your own pace or onsite in South Ken, choose your level from beginner to intermediate to advanced.

Medicine: The Wellcome Galleries

Daily
10 am - 6 pm
Science Museum
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Showcasing extraordinary medical artefacts including the world’s first MRI scanner, Fleming’s penicillin mould, a professional pianist’s prosthetic arm and even robotic surgery equipment.

The Milestone

Daily
The Milestone
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Discover old world charm, beautiful rich furnishings, exquisite original arts, outstanding cuisine and an experienced and passionate team. This elegant historic hotel is perfectly located opposite Kensington Palace and Gardens, and close to the Royal Albert Hall. Enjoy Stable’s Bar and the signature ‘Smoking Old Fashioned’, Afternoon Tea in the Park Lounge or dine in Cheneston’s or The Oratory, the stunning original chapel.

The Egerton House Hotel

Daily
The Egerton Hotel
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In the heart of Knightsbridge, on a quiet street overlooking private gardens, discover this enchanting boutique townhouse. Moments from Harrods and the V&A Museum, a passionate team welcomes each guest like family. With a unique character and beautiful traditional style, enjoy a delicious breakfast, Afternoon Tea by the fire or sip on one of London’s most famous martinis.

Energy Hall

Daily
10am-6pm (last entry 5:15pm)
Science Museum
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Trace the remarkable story of steam and how it shaped the world we live in today. Steam has been the driving force behind British industry for 300 years. Without it, the Industrial Revolution could never have happened. Even now, steam provides 75% of the electricity we use every day.

Hyde Park Self Guided Walks

All Year Round
Hyde Park
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Discover the magic of Hyde Park on a self-guided walk, exploring its history, wildlife, and horticulture along the way.

Victoria: A Royal Childhood

Daily
10am-6pm
Kensington Palace
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Discover the story of Princess Victoria, the young girl destined to be queen, in the rooms where she was born and raised at Kensington Palace. Explore how an indulged young princess blossomed into the independent and iconic monarch we remember.

The K Bar

Daily
3 pm - 11 pm / 12 am
The Kensington
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From artisan spirits and fine wines to innovative hand-crafted signature cocktails, The K Bar delivers an exceptional drinking experience, where every sip is a testament to the art of mixology and quality flavours

The Kensington: Town House

Daily
7 am - 9 pm
The Kensington
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Town House at The Kensington blends modern luxury with heritage and tradition to deliver a contemporary take on English cuisine. A home away from home, it’s the perfect space for breakfast, brunch, dinner or to while away an afternoon over a decadent afternoon tea.