Summer holidays have a habit of creeping up on us. One minute you're counting down to the end of term, the next you're wondering how to fill six weeks without hearing "I'm bored" before breakfast.

Whether you're planning a full day out, looking for a rainy-day activity or simply want an excuse to explore somewhere new, these are the London experiences worth booking now. From magical theatre and immersive exhibitions to outdoor performances and hidden Underground stations, there's something here for every age.

1. Dog Man: The Musical

Southbank Centre | Ages 5+

If your child has devoured every Dog Man book, they'll love seeing the characters brought to life on stage. The hit Off-Broadway production arrives in London this summer with plenty of humour, music and fast-paced fun. A brilliant first theatre trip for younger children. 29 Jul – 16 Aug | Book here

2. House Of Dreamers

Immerse LDN | All ages

One of this summer's hottest tickets, House of Dreamers combines oversized installations, immersive storytelling and interactive experiences across 16 imaginative worlds. Expect enchanted forests, giant ball pits, upside-down rooms and plenty of photo opportunities. Just as entertaining for adults as it is for children. From 27 June | Book here

3. Harry Potter And The Cursed Child

West End | Ages 10+

If you've been waiting for the right moment to book, this is it. This summer is your final chance to see the original two-part production before it closes in September. A spectacular experience for Harry Potter fans and one of London's most unforgettable theatre outings. 29 Jul – 20 Sept | Book here

4. Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit And Friends

Young V&A | All ages

Celebrating 50 years of Aardman, this joyful exhibition explores the creative world behind Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep and Chicken Run. Original models, sketches and interactive displays make it every bit as enjoyable for nostalgic parents as it is for children. Until 15 November | Book here

5. Outdoor Theatre At Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens | All ages

Pack a picnic and make a day of it. This summer, the Australian Shakespeare Company returns to Kew with family favourites including The Wind in the Willows and Jack and the Beanstalk, alongside evening performances of Twelfth Night. Tickets include entry to the gardens, making it one of London's loveliest summer outings. 18 Jul – 30 Aug | Book here

6. The Traitors: Live Experience

Covent Garden | Ages 12+

Families with older children can now experience the hit TV show together. Work out who to trust, complete challenges and uncover the traitors in this immersive game that brings all the tension of the series into real life. Family sessions available throughout summer | Book here

7. David Attenborough's Immersive Experience

Natural History Museum | All ages

Sir David Attenborough's immersive film explores our relationship with the natural world through breathtaking visuals and powerful storytelling. Thought-provoking, beautifully produced and guaranteed to spark plenty of conversation on the journey home. Until the end of August | Book here

8. Timewalk through history

Immerse LDN | Ages 8+

Travel through Ancient Egypt, Babylon, the Maya civilisation and beyond in London's newest immersive history experience. Combining technology, storytelling and spectacular sets, it's an unforgettable journey through thousands of years of civilisation. 23 Jul – 30 Sept | Book here

9. Hidden London: Aldwych Station Tour

London Transport Museum | Ages 10+

Ever wondered what London's abandoned Underground stations look like? This family-friendly version of the museum's hugely popular Hidden London tours takes visitors behind the scenes at Aldwych Station, with puzzles, stories and interactive challenges designed especially for older children. Summer dates available | Book here

10. MC Escher

Somerset House | Ages 8+

Impossible staircases, optical illusions and gravity-defying artwork make this one of the most fascinating exhibitions of the summer. Perfect for curious minds, the exhibition explores the extraordinary work of one of history's most influential artists and is guaranteed to leave the whole family questioning what they're seeing. Until 6 Sept | Book here

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