As February half term 2026 approaches, parents across London may feel a familiar sense of dread. The weather is often chilly and damp, and without the festive cheer of Christmas or Easter, finding engaging, affordable activities can be a challenge. However, fear not, as the city's cultural institutions are stepping up with a wealth of free, family-friendly events designed to entertain, educate, and inspire children of all ages. From dancing dragons to hands-on art sessions, here are the top wallet-friendly ways to keep the little ones busy and happy during the school break.
1. Marvel at Dancing Dragons at a Free Lunar New Year Party
Kick off the half term with a vibrant celebration of Lunar New Year in Central London. Kids will be mesmerised by the sight of lucky red dragons and lion puppets parading through the bustling streets of Chinatown on Sunday, February 22. Head to Leicester Square for a dedicated family zone offering free craft activities and dressing-up opportunities, or visit Trafalgar Square to enjoy martial arts demonstrations and Chinese pop music on a big stage. For a more relaxed experience, smaller family-centric events are available at the Museum of the Home on February 17, the Maritime Museum on February 21, and the Museum of London Docklands on February 21-22. These venues provide free spots for activities like coil pot making and ribbon dancing, ensuring a cultural and creative day out.
2. Scribble on a Giant Chalkboard at Southbank Centre's Imagine Festival
The Southbank Centre's annual Imagine Festival is perfectly timed to brighten up the bleak February weather. From February 11 to 21, families can enjoy a host of free, wallet-friendly activities. A highlight is the giant chalkboard, where children can scribble, draw, or even clamber over it to their hearts' content. Complement your visit with special free events such as the dance session 'Wonder Gig' on February 12, the craft day 'Dream, Design, Do!' on February 17, or the comedy show 'Big Laughs For Little Bellies' on February 18. Located on Belvedere Road, SE18XX, this festival offers a spirit-lifting escape from the winter chill.
3. Take on a LEGO Building Challenge at the Natural History Museum
Venture to South Kensington's popular Natural History Museum during half term for a free, educational adventure. By booking a free spot, you can avoid long queues and dive into a galaxy of fun activities. LEGO-obsessed kids will love the big building challenge, inspired by the possibilities of extraterrestrial life. Additionally, science-minded children can enjoy sessions on asteroids and missions to Mars. The museum, located at Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD, from February 14 to 22, provides a perfect blend of learning and play.
4. Try Some Messy Textured Painting at the National Portrait Gallery
For a creative and hands-on experience, visit the National Portrait Gallery on February 17. Everyone aged three and over can try their hand at impasto painting, a messy, expressive technique inspired by artists like Lucian Freud. This drop-in family workshop provides paints, paper, and inspiration to depict family, friends, and pets in bold new styles. Located at St Martin's Place, WC2H 0HE, it's a free opportunity to unleash artistic talents in a supportive environment.
5. Make Something Beautiful at Tate Modern's Playful Art Sessions
The Tate Modern is always a great destination for families, with its open spaces and colourful exhibits. During half term, from February 14 to 22, the Holiday Make Studio adds an extra incentive with a theme of beauty. Drop in to The Tanks, SE1 9TG, for artist-led sessions that encourage experimentation and creativity. Kids can explore what makes something lovely to look at in an anything-goes space, making it a fun and free artistic adventure.
6. Craft Some Zany Headgear at the V&A
While the V&A is hosting a pricey exhibition on Marie Antoinette, families can opt for a free alternative from February 16 to 20. Designer Hannah Wild will help children aged five and up, along with their adults, create stunning headgear out of balloons. This sustainable adventure in wearable art, located at Cromwell Road, SW7 2RL, offers a creative and eco-friendly activity without the expense.
7. Try Your Hand at a Cool Job at the Science Museum's Technicians Gallery
Inspire future careers with a visit to the Science Museum's new, free Technicians gallery. Kids can try their hands at exciting tech-based jobs, such as working on a blockbuster Marvel film, a wind turbine, or in a pharmaceutical lab. This interactive experience, at Exhibition Road, W7 2DD, is perfect for sparking interest in science and technology, even encouraging teenagers to stay engaged with subjects like chemistry.
Kids Eat Free Deals at London Restaurants
Feeding the family can be one of the costliest parts of a day out, but many London restaurants offer kids-eat-free deals during the school holidays. Major chains like Bella Italia, Las Iguanas, and Frankie & Bennys provide decent options. For a more adventurous dining experience, try Cocotte in South Kensington, which offers a free petit poulet menu for under-12s, including a starter, main, side, and sauce. Alternatively, Banana Tree serves free kid-friendly dishes like katsu curry for under-11s with an adult meal purchase. For younger children with a taste for adventure, Inko Nito in Soho offers a free menu for under-sevens, featuring delights such as cucumber and avocado maki and ice cream. These deals help take the sting out of the bill while broadening culinary horizons.
With these free activities and dining options, February half term 2026 in London promises to be a fun-filled, budget-friendly break for families. Explore the city's cultural offerings and create lasting memories without breaking the bank.
