attraction

ONE attraction in the capital is about to get a number of new features – and they are all free to visit.

The Horniman Museum and Gardens in Forest Hill, London – which was named London‘s best family attraction in 2024 by – will be launching several new outdoor experiences on May 21.

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The new experiences will be in the Horniman’s 16-acre Gardens and are part of the attraction’s Nature + Love project which includes a number of new opportunities to learn about and play in nature.

New features include a nature-themed play area, family-friendly cafe, an improved Nature Trail, an AR trail, a new nursery glasshouse and a Community Garden.

In the new Kusuma Nature Play area, there will be a wooden jetty with a slide, climbing webs and lookout points.

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Visitors will also be able to learn about different species that are local to the Horniman, such as a robin-themed area with timber rocker, nest hedge, and robin eggs.

For slightly braver kids, there will be log steps, timber balance beams and a den building frame to climb through and build.

There will also be a collecting table where younger children can sit on leaf stools and have a go at a finger maze.

The play area will have a basket swing and multi-sensory planting as well.

Peronel Craddock, Director of Content at the Horniman Museum and Gardens, said: “This new play area starts with the idea of connecting children with nature through play, in particular, the wildlife in our local area.

“We hope it will encourage families to make the most of our 16 acres of beautiful Gardens, and also act as a gateway into the Museum for anyone who might not otherwise think a museum is fun, free, or for them.”

Another new addition to the attraction will be a family-friendly cafe and picnic area, ideal for post-play bites to eat.

The cafe will open just across from the new play area and will be run by a family-run cafe group, which operates the Horniman’s other cafes and kiosks.

Visitors will be able to choose from a range of food options including fresh sourdough pizzas.

Of course, you’ll also be able to pick up ice cream and coffee as well.

The cafe will feature both indoor and outdoor seating.

Another exciting new addition is an AR trail called Animals Everywhere.

The trail uses technology that enables guests to interact with the trail and see 3D animated creatures right in front of them.

As visitors head off on the trail they will encounter a number of challenges to complete and mini games to play.

On one part of the trail, for example, visitors will even get the chance to feed the famous Horniman walrus.

Visitors will need to use their phone to follow the trail – but they do not have to pay or download anything.

In addition to the new AR trail, the Nature Trail is being revamped with direct, ramped access from the play area.

Along the trail new panels with information about the local wildlife will be installed as well.

Stuart McLeod, Director of London and South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “Animals Everywhere! is a fantastic example of how technology can reduce barriers and inspire curiosity and engagement with our natural heritage.

“The Horniman offers a fantastic urban green space, and this, alongside the wider Nature + Love project, will transform how visitors connect with nature and the heritage on their doorstep.”

And there will be a Community Garden developed with input from people in the local area.

In the garden – which will focus on respite and reflection – adults and families will be able to participate in a programme of activities.

These will include planting, art, seed bomb creating and practical how-to-grow sessions.

The Garden Nursery area will also be transformed and include a new greenhouse, terrace and workshop space.

Across the garden, visitors can learn some top gardening tips as well as how to better connect with nature.

In addition to the new openings, next year the museum will also reopen its natural history gallery.

The gallery will have been entirely refurbished and redisplayed with returning and new objects, having been closed since spring 2024.

Inside, the focus of the gallery will be on the natural world and also how we impact it.

All of the new features included in the Nature + Love project will be launched at the start of the Horniman’s 125th anniversary celebrations.

If you are heading to the Horniman Museum and Gardens for the day, there are a number of other things to see and do.

In addition to exploring over 350,000 objects and specimens from around the globe, you can also head to the aquarium and butterfly house on site.

Though, both of these are paid-for parts of the attraction with a ticket to the butterfly house costing £9.90 per adult and £6.50 per child and a ticket to the aquarium costing £6.50 per adult and £3.50 per child.

Until November, you can also check out the ‘Voyage to the Deep – Underwater Adventures’ exhibition.

The exhibition is inspired by Jules Verne’s ‘20,000 Leagues Under the Sea’ and visitors will be able to ‘climb’ aboard the Nautilus submarine and head on an underwater adventure.

Tickets for the experience are also paid-for, with adult admission costing £9.80 and child admission costing £7.

If you want to just explore the free areas you can venture around the museum itself and the gardens too, where you will find an Animal Walk with goats, sheep, guinea pigs, rabbits, chickens and alpacas.

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A HUGE Eden Project attraction has finally confirmed a new opening date – and it will be the newest in 25 years.

Eden Project Morecambe will overlook Morecambe Bay in Lancaster, and will be the first new Eden Project since the one in Cornwall opened in 2001.

It has now confirmed it will open its first phase in early 2027, followed by a full opening in 2028.

It comes after the new attraction appointed contractor VINCI Building for the next stage of development and construction.

Overall, the North West-based Eden Project is set to cost £100million and the first phases, which will be 1.5 acres of landscaped gardens, will open early next year.

The public will be able to get a sneak peak at the free-to-enter Bring Me Sunshine Garden at the 2026 RHS Chelsea Flower Show, before it relocates to Morecambe permanently.

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By 2028, visitors will be able to explore two shell-inspired structures that will house “immersive ‘Realms’ exploring humanity’s relationship with the natural world”.

In the Realm of the Sun, visitors can expect “a bright, tropical landscape of the near future where humans have discovered how to heal and re-engage with the broken rhythms of the natural world around them”.

Details previously mentioned include hanging plants and mini gardens, a multi-sensory area, a cascading waterfall, a 20-metre Elder Tree sculpture and a ‘Town Square’.

The ‘Realm’ is also planned to adapt to both the hot and cold seasons.

Then inside the Realm of the Moon visitors can explore a darker space, with a “hyper-real rock pool” that has sped-up cycles of tides.

Between the two realms, there is expected to be an area called Metronome, where visitors will purchase entry tickets.

There will be a 750-capacity Tidal Theatre, a 300-capacity restaurant and a shop at the attraction as well.

Once the attraction is open, visitors will be able to interact with different exhibits as well as participate in a number of workshops.

Eight concerts or events are also planned for the attraction each summer, aiming to attract around 6,000 people.

Eden Project Morecambe will bring around £80million to the local area as well as hundreds of jobs.  

Changes to the project were announced back in February after both residents and councillors raised concerns over the impact it would have on some of the nearby landmarks such as the Midland Hotel and Winter Gardens venue.

From the updated plans, changes were also made to ensure there would be more outside areas with coastal plants, as well as links to animal and human life.

And to prevent flood damage to the attraction, there will be a sea defence area that will wrap around the site and feature raised walkways.

When plans were originally approved in 2022 the attraction was set to feature four domes and it was set to open in 2026 – though this has now been pushed back.

The attraction will sit on the site of the former Bubbles Leisure Complex.

John Pye, project director for Eden Project Morecambe, said: “VINCI Building’s appointment marks an exciting acceleration for Eden Project Morecambe.

“Their technical capability, deep roots in the North West and strong commitment to sustainability and social value make them a powerful partner as we move towards breaking ground later this year.

“This is a nationally significant project for Morecambe and for the region and this latest milestone brings us another step closer to realising that vision.”

Gary Hughes, regional director at VINCI Building, said: “Our team brings extensive experience in delivering complex cultural and environmental projects and we are committed to placing local people, local businesses and local supply chains at the heart of delivery.”

This isn’t the only new Eden Project site set to open in the UK – there are also plans to open an Eden Project in Dundee.

The project was first announced back in 2020 and is set to cost £130million.

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AN ABANDONED department store’s roof is being turned into a huge new attraction – after success in two other UK cities.

Freight Island will open at the abandoned Debenhams in Eldon Square Shopping Centre in Newcastle in June.

Costing £16million, the “island above the city centre” is set to become the largest food, drink, and entertainment venue in a UK city centre.

The venue itself will be on the top floor of the empty Debenhams store and span 5,574-square-metres.

Inside, the main hub called The Plant Room will boast communal areas for guests to dine under a retractable roof.

The Plant Room will feature 12 street food-style restaurants with specific brands including Meat: Stack, I Scream for Pizza, Miso, V.Goode Pies, Fab Bakery, Churros Kingdom, Fuku and Pita.

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When it comes to grabbing a drink, there will be four bars including a specialist Aperitivo cocktail bar with cocktails on tap and Two by Two Brewing beers.

For music lovers, there will also be a 1,200 person venue called the Music Box, where touring acts, theatre shows, festivals and DJ sets will take place.

Reportedly, there will even be raves for kids, as well as multiple screens showing live sporting events.

The venue will be inspired by New York‘s Coney Island and Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens.

When the new destination was announced last year, Co-founder and Managing Director of Freight Island, Dan Morris, said: “This venue has been designed with scale, prominence, and long-term investment in mind.

“We hope to replicate the huge success of Freight Island in Manchester, where it has already contributed over £30million to the local economy.

“This incredible venue in the heart of a very special city offers a truly exciting opportunity to create a cultural space that could become a focal point of Newcastle for years to come.”

Freight Island is already open in Manchester and, back in January, announced that it is opening a new site in the Trinity Leeds shopping centre.

Similar to the Newcastle venue, there will be street food-style stalls, bars and live entertainment.

There will also be an outdoor terrace looking over City Square.

Construction of the Leeds site is set to start in late spring.

And next month, Freight Island will open a venue in Brixton, south west London.

The rooftop destination will be able to host around 1,000 people and officially opens on May 7.

It is expected to be the capital’s largest rooftop venue with chef residencies, cocktail bars, live music, DJ sets, food festivals and major sports screenings, amongst other events.

For the upcoming World Cup, the rooftop will even have a dedicated World Cup Fanzone with screenings of the matches.

Other upcoming events include Reggae Brunch and Maggi Brunch.

There will be family-friendly daytime sessions in the summer too.

Similar to the Newcastle venue, Freight Island Brixton will have a number of speciality bars including the Casamigos ‘House of Friends’ and Hotel Milano – themed around much-loved Italian aperitivos.

Freight Island already has a destination in Manchester, located near Piccadilly Station.

It was the brand’s first venue, opening its doors back in July 2020.

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Plus, there’s a new £379million attraction dedicated to chocolate opening in Europe with rides and hotels.

WITH the UK’s unpredictable weather, summer always feels far away – but a new weather-proof attraction is soon opening in a popular seaside town.

A multi-activity indoor attraction is set to welcome people in a few months in Blackpool.

Tenpin will feature 24 bowling lanes which can be used for parties, groups and casual play.

But there will also be other activities in the venue, including two karaoke rooms.

For those wanting to burn some steps there will be a laser tag arena too.

And if you like a challenge, there will be three immersive escape rooms to have a go at.

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Families visiting with younger children can also use a soft play area and there will be an area for adult visitors as well, with interactive darts and pool tables.

To extend the fun, there will also be a fully equipped arcade.

While enjoying the different activities in the venue, visitors can enjoy a tipple from the cocktail bar and lounge area where live sport will be shown.

Laura Barlow, Regional Manager from Tenpin said: “This is a significant investment in Blackpool’s leisure offering and, most importantly, in its residents.

“We wanted to create a space that families, friends and local groups can use week in and week out.

“Blackpool deserves high-quality, modern entertainment that is accessible all year round, and this venue has been designed to deliver exactly that.”

Construction on the new venue has already started and the attraction will officially open on June 5.

Another new venue will be opening in Wakefield, also with 24 bowling lanes, two karaoke rooms, a laser tag arena, three escape rooms, an arcade area and pool tables.

Tenpin already has 58 sites across the UK.

A game of bowling usually costs around £9.95, when booked in advance, and often different venues have offers on, including ‘Tenpin Tuesdays’ where you can get 50 per cent off bowling and some drinks, and £10 Thursdays where you can get two games of bowling for a tenner.

If heading to Blackpool before June 5, there are plenty of other things you can do.

For example, you could head to Blackpool Pleasure Beach Resort, where from April 4 you can head to Twilight Thrills, where the park extends its opening hours until 9pm.

The Twilight Thrills evenings will also have live DJ sets, entertainment and roaming characters.

Between April 10 and 12, there will also be a three-day festival at the seaside attraction called Turn It Up Festival with music by Harry Styles and Sabrina Carpenter among others.

Tenpin isn’t the only project going on in Blackpool either.

The UK’s biggest indoor waterpark – Sandcastle Waterpark – has revealed it is getting a £500,000 renovation.

Inside there will be a new changing area, as well as the slides being repainted.

And the new look will be open in time for the Easter holidays.

In total, the waterpark features 18 slides, as well as wave pools and river rapids.

It is also the perfect place to escape the chilly sea breeze as the pool is heated to 30C year-round.

In other attraction news, here are all our experts’ favourite attractions in London that cost nothing.

Plus, the ‘secret’ attraction that lets you step into your favourite movies and TV shows is set for huge permanent venue in UK.

A HUGE new multi-million attraction based on chocolate is opening in Europe.

Maison Cailler, in Broc, Switzerland, is the home to Switzerland’s oldest chocolate brand as well as being a museum.

And it has has revealed plans for a whole load of new experiences to expand the land.

One of the largest additions are the Cocoa Bean Greenhouses, which will have real cocoa trees for guests to learn about the processes of making of chocolate.

A new tasting hall and shop will become the Emporium, while a flying theatre like ride will let guests go on virtual flights throughout Switzerland.

Original parts of the factory dating back to 1898 are also being restored, with plans to open to the public for the first time as “chocolate theatres”.

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And the current Atelier du Chocolate workshop is trippling in size to cope with the current demand.

Set to cost CHF400million (£379million), works could start this year with plans to open by 2030.

All of the new additions will turn the experience into a one-hour experience as long as six hours.

It hopes to more than double tourist numbers, from the current 500,000 to 1.2million a year.

Other plans include a new gondola connecting the attraction to the parking area, as well as new hotels.

President of the Gruyère-Chocolat Association behind the attraction, Olivier Quillet, emphasized that it wasn’t a theme park as they “wont have rollercoasters“.

Instead, he said: “We want to showcase the expertise, tradition, and heritage.

“From the moment they enter, visitors will be immersed in chocolate; they can taste it and watch it being crafted by master chocolatiers.”

Also in Switzerland is a Wonka-style chocolate attraction with a 30ft chocolate fountain.

In the mean time, here’s how to find the world’s oldest chocolate shop – and its easy to get to from the UK.

And of course there is the iconic Cadbury’s World, right in the UK.

HAVE you ever wanted to live out your favourite movie? Well, there actually is an attraction in the UK that lets you do this.

Secret Cinema is known for hosting immersive movie experiences in the UK’s capital.

Previous venues have included Battersea Park, Alexandra Palace and London Fields with shows including Grease, Stranger Things, Casino Royale, Guardians of the Galaxy, Dirty Dancing and even Bridgerton.

And now, Secret Cinema plans to create a permanent venue in Greenwich.

The purpose-built venue in North Greenwich, if approved, would open by the end of the year.

And the venue would be close to other popular destinations in Greenwich such as The O2 and the Troubadour Theatre, due to open in late 2026.

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Merritt Baer, Artistic Director & Producer of Secret Cinema said: “Greenwich Peninsula is the perfect location for Secret Cinema’s long-term flagship home.

“We are committed to bringing world-class immersive experiences to London audiences and are thrilled to work with local businesses and partners to make this happen…

“We are looking forward to breaking ground on this venue and continuing to bring entertainment’s most loved stories to life.”

Secret Cinema hopes that Greenwich will become its permanent home “for up to 10 years”.

In addition to the potential permanent site, Secret Cinema has also announced that it is bringing back last year’s hit, Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical.

The experience will return to Battersea Park from July 22 to September 13.

Travel reporter Cyann Fielding visited last year’s Grease experience and said: “Secret Cinema’s Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical had immediately transported me out of London in 2025 and landed me in the world of Sandy and Danny in the 1950s.

“It felt like a time machine had dropped me into the world of Sandy and Danny, more than 65 years in the past.

“Guests can purchase carnival tokens, just like at a real fair, to enjoy the attractions at the experience.

“There was a Ferris wheel, flying chairs, hook-a-duck and even the iconic fun house from Sandy’s unforgettable transformation scene.

“Inside, the school’s gymnasium dominated the room, serving as the central stage for the night’s performance.

“Around the edges, themed bars and seating areas were scattered – each also playing a role in the experience.

“Rows of vintage cars had been converted into tables, the auto shop was slick with oil and the bleachers were ready for Patty Simcox to screech about school spirit.

“The experience kicks off with the film itself, but as key scenes played out, actors took to the stage to bring them to life, all before cutting back to the movie.

“My only criticism would be that at times it felt a little overwhelming to the senses – I found myself on occasions unsure where to look or what to listen to as the sound from the film, orchestra and actors sometimes battle against each other.

“Yet, the entire time my feet tapped and I couldn’t help but sing along.

“Both the dancing and singing throughout the experience was breathtakingly flawless.”

Unlike the usual West End shows in London, the Secret Cinema experience allows guests to stand and move around freely.

As you move around, so do the actors and they interact with you too, chatting while in full character.

Cyann added: “One student dropped by our table to rant about being ‘left out of Frenchy’s sleepover’ – dragging us directly into the drama.

“For the finale, the audience was led back outside to the carnival.

“Sandy’s final transformation scene with song ‘You’re the One That I Want’ really did bring the house down complete with leather trousers and Shake Shack.”

In other attraction news, a free London attraction has been named the UK’s most popular for first time, so our experts have shared all of their faves that also cost nothing.

Plus, a historic tourist attraction with 250k visitors a year could start charging an entry fee for first time.

A UK tourist attraction may start charging visitors an entry fee for the first time.

The historic site has cited increasing financial pressures as the reason behind the potential move.

Worcester Cathedral has launched a consultation period to explore whether its annual 250,000 visitors could help with running costs.

The 1,300-year-old building, which is the resting place of historic figures such as King John and Prince Arthur Tudor, is the most visited attraction in Worcestershire.

According to the Worcester Cathedral website, the site is currently free to visit but there is a suggested donation of £7 for adult entry to the site.

Guided tours are also available, priced at around £8 per person, offering visitors additional information on the site’s history and architecture, as well as access to the tower.

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Despite these revenue streams and the site’s popularity, the cathedral confirmed that its “current financial position is not sustainable over time”.

Total expenditure for the cathedral was recorded as £4.06million for the 2024-2025 financial year, while the site’s gross income came to £3.08million, leaving a funding gap of roughly £1million.

To tackle this, the cathedral is currently considering a mandatory entry charge, which it said would contribute to costs such as energy bills and maintenance, as well as staffing.

Speaking on the potential fee, Dean Stephen Edwards emphasised the cathedral would always remain a place of worship first and foremost, reports the BBC.

He assured local church-goers that access for prayer, services, and pastoral support would not be affected under any potential changes.

“Through this consultation we explore how we can invite appropriately those who visit primarily for heritage and tourism to contribute fairly towards the cost of maintaining the cathedral and its activities,” he said.

He went on to explain that Worcester Cathedral, like “many historic institutions”, is experiencing a rise in running and maintenance costs.

“While careful financial management and support from our endowment have enabled us to balance budgets in recent years, this has reduced our reserves and increased our reliance on investment income.”

The Dean added that diversifying income streams would help the cathedral to “remain resilient and financially sustainable”.

Worcester Cathedral is currently asking for the public’s views on the proposed entry fee via an online survey, which will remain open until Friday, April 10.

The survey stated that “no decisions have been taken” and did not include a potential price for the entry fee.

Other tourist attractions, including Rome’s Trevi Fountain, have recently brought in entry fees for the first time.

ONE of the UK’s biggest free museums has been named the most popular attraction in the UK.

The Natural History Museum in London has knocked off the British Museum from the top spot of most guests, with the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA) revealing 7.1million people visited last year.

This marked the best year in terms of visitors for the free attraction, with a 13 per cent rise compared to the previous year.

The attraction happens to be one of Travel Reporter Alice Penwill’s favourite free attractions in London.

She said: “Having been to the Natural History Museum recently, I’m not surprised it’s the UK’s most popular tourist attraction.

“Other London attractions are impressive, but you won’t ever forget walking in to see the skeleton of an 82-foot Blue Whale in the entryway.

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“There’s something for everyone, whether you’re interested in fossils, reptiles and birds.

“My favourite part is The Vault where there are some of the most valuable treasures like diamonds, amethyst and gold crystals.

“There’s lots of green spaces outside too, and I saw lots of children enjoying the Evolution Garden with dinosaurs like a bronze Diplodocus that was installed a few years ago.”

Over the next couple of years, the Natural History Museum is also working on new openings.

A new Human Nature pop-up display will open in September 2026, inside a gallery that has been closed for 80 years.

Inside, visitors will be able to discover stories about human history and the natural world, with a number of specimens and historical objects on display that haven’t been seen before.

There will also be a prototype of one of the Crystal Palace dinosaurs, a monk seal called Jenny ‘the talking fish’ and a handaxe that was discovered alongside the remains of a woolly mammoth in 1859.

Later in 2027, there will be a new permanent gallery specifically for young children.

It will be designed for four to seven-year-olds with lots of hands-on interactive experiences about the natural world.

Doug Gurr, director of the Natural History Museum, said: “We are thrilled to be the UK’s most popular visitor attraction, smashing all previous records for the sector!”

London has a load of free attractions as well, including some right by the Natural History Museum.

One of Sun Travel’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey’s favourite free attractions in the city is just down the road.

She said: “Having started my career in fashion, it’s no surprise that the museum I’ve been to the most in London is the V&A.

“The museum itself is fantastic – not only for being free to visit, but because it’s the largest museum on arts and design in the world.

“Also the second largest in the UK (behind the British Museum), my favourite area is the Asian corridor, with insanely detailed artwork and sculptures.

“There’s loads of free events coming right now, including one on Women Printmakers and one on iconic American Photographs.

“Make sure to save time for the cafe too. It’s also the oldest of its kind in the world and is a stunner.”

And Sun Travel’s Head of Travel (digital) Caroline McGuire also loves the Science Museum nearby.

She said: “The Science Museum in South Kensington is perfect for kids of all ages, I’ve been taking my child there since he was a one-year-old, as
the interactive ‘Garden’ in the basement is perfect for toddlers and
pre-schoolers.

“There are plenty of excellent free exhibitions around the museum – one
of our favourites being the Space section – but the most popular (and
deservedly so) is the paying Wonderlab, an interactive gallery featuring numerous experiments that will fascinate children aged 3-14.

“Tickets cost from £15 for this area.”

Alternatively, you could visit an exciting attraction on Tottenham Court Road.

Caroline shared: “Until I visited the Outernet, I thought it was all hype.

“Now, my son and I will make a 25-minute detour to spend even 20 minutes there, when we’re in central London.

“The huge multi-screened space on Tottenham Court Road screens
artist-made short films throughout the day, and you can walk in from
the street and spend as little or as much time there as you want.

“With screens covering the sides and ceiling, you really do feel like
you are inside the films.”

And there’s also the Southbank Centre.

Caroline added: “If I got a quid for every time I raved about the Southbank Centre, I could probably afford a slap-up meal at Pizza Express.

“As a mum of a primary school-aged kid who lives in London, we visit
the venue on London’s Southbank almost every school holiday.

“They have a range of free activities that change monthly.

“We’ve done free kids raves, free doodling workshops, free crafts sessions and free DIY sessions where my six-year-old was given a hammer and saw and encouraged to help build a Moomin House overlooking the River Thames.

“Oh, and the free Jeppe Hein: Appearing Rooms fountains are one of the
best places to take a kid for a splash around during a summer
heatwave.”

Or you could head to a number of galleries including the Tate Modern, Tate Britain or National Portrait Gallery.

Alice said: “When I head to London, I make a beeline for the galleries.

“Getting to see walls upon walls lined with famous artwork for absolutely nothing is something we take for granted – and there are plenty to see in the city.

“There’s the Tate Modern and Tate Britain, The National Portrait Gallery, the National Gallery where you can see one of my favourite portraits, The Ugly Duchess.

“Not to mention lots of these venues have pretty cafes and even bars if you fancy taking a weight off your feet after exploring.”

Here are some other spots to visit across London that are free to visit.

MinaLima

Elsewhere in London, you could head to one of Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding’s favourite spots – MinaLima.

Found in Soho, MinaLima is a shop and attraction that features the graphic designs from the Harry Potter films.

Named after Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima, who are responsible for most of the designs you see in the films including the Daily Prophet, the Advanced Potion Making textbook and Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans, the destination features themed items for sale as well as prints of their designs.

Make sure to spend time exploring as there are also items from the films, and speak to the staff, who really know their stuff.

London parks

There are also a number of amazing outdoor places to visit in London including Kara’s favourite, the commons in south west London.

She said: “I spent the best part of a decade living in south London, with two years of that in and out of the Covid lockdowns.

“To stop myself from going insane, this meant lots of walking around my local parks.

“And from Balham you can easily walk three of the best in one day.

“I recommend starting at Clapham Common, one of the more open parks of the three with ponds and a Victorian bandstand that often has live concerts.

“Go down to Wandsworth Common, and you can walk along the train tracks or across the pond.

“Then nip through Balham (with a coffee at The Apple Blue Patisserie or Insta-famous Milk) and end in Tooting Bec Common, with a much more leafier and interesting park to explore.

“Need to cool down? Finish with a swim at Tooting Bec Lido as well, the biggest freshwater lido in the UK (£9.40 for adults or free for locals).”

Travel Reporter Jenna Steven’s favourite free spots also make good walks.

She said: “London has over 3,000 parks to explore, but St James’s Park is one of my favourites.

“This is mainly because I’m a big fan of the unique Duck Island, an aptly-named nature reserve on the east of St James’s Park Lake.

“The island has its own cottage, which is surrounded by vibrant greenery and blooming flowers in the springtime, looking like something out of a fairy-tale story book.

“Plus there’s scenic picnic spots by the bandstand, and several kiosks serving cold drinks and sandwiches to enjoy when the sun comes out – save those crusts for the birds!”

Or head to Lisa Minot’s favourite – Primrose Hill.

She said: “For fabulous FREE views across the whole of London, head to Primrose Hill in North London.

“First opened in 1842 as an open space for Londoners, it was originally part of Henry VIII’s hunting grounds.

“Today it offers fantastic panoramic views of the capital and is popular at sunrise and sunsets.

“It is one of six protected viewpoints in London, its highest point more than 63 metres above tree level.

“Trees are also kept low so as not to obscure the view.”

Covent Garden Piazza

If you fancy something a little more urban, venture to Covent Garden Piazza.

Jenna added: “There’s plenty of both branded and independent shops to browse, traditional cafes and bars, plus there’s always a pop-up giving away tasty treats of some kind.

“Head into the historic Market Building and Piazza for the best atmosphere in the area.

“Here you’ll hear live music rising from the lower level that makes your stroll through the building even more beautiful.”

Borough Market

Another favourite spot of Lisa’s is Borough Market.

She said: “From the viral strawberries in melted chocolate to endless street food options, traders have been operating from London’s Borough Market for more than 1,000 years.

“Today’s unique Victorian arcades, built in 1850, are home to stands offering premium quality speciality foods as well as plenty of grab-and-go options from oysters and paella to burgers and fish and chips.

“While you don’t have to pay to wander the busy pathways of Borough Market, the tempting foods on offer will mean you will not be able to resist parting with some of your cash!”

In other attraction news, there’s a new UK attraction which has been named among the best places to visit in the world – but it’s not for everyone.

Plus, one of Europe’s best beaches is in the UK – and its top attraction is returning this week.

LOOKING for a day out in the capital for less? Thanks to Sun Superdays, we are offering Sun readers up to £10 off tickets to London’s most iconic attractions.

Take your pick from four top attractions, including the London Eye, Madame Tussauds London, SEA LIFE London and The London Dungeon.

Join Sun Club for just £1.99 a month — don’t miss out.

If you fancy a spot of sightseeing, step inside the greatest view aboard the iconic London Eye. 

Enjoy unparalleled 360-degree views of the city as you rotate through the breathtaking skyline above South Bank.

See all your favourite landmarks from every elevated angle during a relaxing 30-minute rotation, spotting the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, and even Windsor Castle on a clear day.

For those who would rather rub shoulders with stars, step through the world-famous doors of Madame Tussauds London and immerse yourself into the world of superstars as you attend the ultimate fame experience. 

Get closer than ever to A-listers like John Boyega and Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, perform with Drake and Dua Lipa, or attend a private audience with Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

Alternatively, you can dive into an underwater adventure at SEA LIFE London. Come face to fin with your favourite creatures including sting rays, jelly fish, sharks, turtles and more. 

Journey through incredible themed zones such as Coral Kingdom and Open Oceans. Soak up fun facts about marine life and learn about conservation and SEA LIFE’S mission to protect the ocean and its creatures.

Or if you are feeling brave, the London Dungeon offers a uniquely thrilling journey into the city’s darkest history. 

Bringing together an amazing cast of theatrical actors, special effects, stages, scenes and thrilling rides. 

Each showcasing hysterically horrible history across a series of immersive shows, including the Torturer, sinister witch trials and many other spine-chilling shows. 

HOW TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS

There are two ways to unlock the savings and book your tickets:

Sun Club:

Join Sun Club for £1.99 per month or £12 for the year to claim this offer and many more.

Go to the Offers Hub and find the Sun Superdays page.

Follow the steps on this page to book your tickets from 11am on Monday, March 23.

Sun Savers:

1. Download the Sun Savers app or sign up at sunsavers.co.uk. Go to the Offers and click “Click Collecting” on the Sun Superdays page.
2. Pick up The Sun and collect TWO Sun Savers codes. We will print one code daily in the paper between Saturday, March 21 – Friday, March 27.
3. Go to the Offers section and find the Sun Superdays page and follow the steps on this page to book your tickets from 11am on Monday, March 23.

Join Sun Club for just £1.99 a month — don’t miss out.

18+ UK only (exc. IoM & CI). Sun Savers multiple code collect 21/03/26-27/03/26 or subscription to Sun Club or Digital Newspaper required.  Book by 22/04/26. Offer valid for ‘up to £10 off’ tickets at selected London Merlin UK attractions. Pricing varies, £10 off adult tickets and £7-£4 off child tickets. Exclusions may apply. Subject to availability. Non-transferable & non-refundable. Online access required. New customer offer: £1.99 per month or £12 per year unless you cancel at least seven days before your next billing date. Full T&Cs apply, see sunsavers.co.uk or club.thesun.co.uk/sun-club.

©The London Eye 2026 all rights reserved. Conceived and designed by Marks Barfield Architects. Any images shown of Madame Tussauds depicts wax figures created and owned by Madame Tussauds.

TOY stores can often be a place of pure happiness for children – and one of the most famous stores in the UK is making even more reasons to visit.

Hamleys in London is the world’s oldest toy shop, with its first site opening back in 1760 under the name Noah’s Ark.

Originally in High Holburn, the much-loved toy store is now on Regent Street, where it has stood since 1881.

Across seven floors there are thousands of toys to explore and each year the store welcomes around five million visitors.

And now there is even more of a reason to go as the giant toy store is launching lots of new events – and most of them are free.

Keane Herman, Business Head Hamleys UK, said: “As the finest and oldest toy shop in the world, Hamleys has been creating magical moments for
children and families for more than 266 years.

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“By keeping our eye on what’s current, trending and relevant, we continue to elevate the experiences we create in store.

“There is always something happening at our Regent Street flagship.

“From live toy demonstrations and interactive play experiences to dance parties and puppet shows, it is this sense of energy and theatre that makes Hamleys so special.

“We pay close attention to what resonates with children and parents, and to the trends shaping the world of play, so that we can continually offer fresh and memorable experiences.”

Last year, the store launched the Hamleys Bus and Lights Your at Christmas which proved to be such a success that the store is bringing it back for Easter this year.

And the store has already hosted a number of brand pop-ups including one with dessert brand Vnilla, who are well-known for creating banana pudding just like the famous Magnolia Bakery’s in New York.

Herman added: “These events and experiences are a natural extension of our daily in-store theatre, giving children the chance to be even more hands-on and to immerse themselves in the magic of play.

“Our heritage is incredibly important to us, but what keeps Hamleys thriving is our commitment to continually evolving.

“Families come to Hamleys not just to shop, but to make memories together, and that sense of wonder is something we are proud to deliver for every new generation.”

Coming up, there are lots of daily events at Hamleys to enjoy.

For example, every day at 10am (or 12pm on Sundays) when the store opens, there is an opening ceremony with Hamley Bear, who you can also meet at 1pm and 2:30pm each day.

At the weekends, the Hamleys Beary Grand Parade takes place at 4pm each day with dancing and singing.

This is followed by Mr Monkey’s Puppet Show at 4:30pm, where Mr Monkey is searching for his next big adventure.

And then at 5:30pm there is the Hamleys Dance Medley, where magical moments from the toy store’s history are brought back to life, including a princess’s first ball and a pirate’s first adventure.

Between March 28 and April 12 (the Easter school holidays), there are loads of events on as well.

For example, you could watch Chef Choco’s Chocolatiers Puppet Show, where you can learn about the secrets of sweet making and even become a sweet maker yourself.

The show will be on every day throughout the period, at 4:30pm.

On March 28, catch Midnight in the Toyshop come to life at Hamleys, with Ballerina and Rebel Racer giving a live performance.

Performances will be at 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm.

If your kids love slime, then make sure to head to the Hamleys Regent Street Basement from March 24 to April 12 for a Gootopia Experience Zone, where kids can create their own slime and take home a ‘gooey masterpiece’.

The experience will cost £15.99 per person.

Every day at 4pm between March 28 and April 12 there will also be a Hamleys Rainbow Ribbons Parade across every floor of the store.

Also, over the Easter school holidays there will be Hamleys Storytime, with tales of Peter Rabbit and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory every day at 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm.

Towards the end of the Easter holidays on April 6, families can meet the Playmobil Pirates at 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm.

And last but not least, each day at 1pm and 2:30pm there will be a Hamley and Hattie Easter meet and greet.

Officially launching on March 17, there will also be a new Pokémon destination on the Regent Street store’s fourth floor.

The new Pokémon area will feature interactive experiences such as character appearances, and on March 21, a launch event will be held with Pokémon-themed candy floss and activities for visitors.

Later in early April, a Tubbz zone will open inside the Regent Street store in the basement.

In the zone, visitors will be able to grab iconic pop culture characters that have been transformed into cosplaying ducks.

For more things to do with kids, these are London’s best free indoor attractions for families – perfect for rainy days.

Plus, the best UK family days out from £10 to completely free in the Easter holidays.

A HUGE new £1.1million attraction is set to transform one of the world’s trendiest neighbourhoods – which is in the UK.

Margate’s Cliftonville was named the coolest street in the UK by Time Out last year.

And an abandoned area on the seafront is set to be transformed into a free-to-use skatepark,

Set to cost around £1.1million, it is being designed by Betongpark Limited who are behind a number of skateparks in the UK, including the converted Victorian bathhouse Manor Place.

Opening on Ethelbert Crescent, it will be free for all skill levels, with plans for workshops and events as well.

Along with the skating area, there will be new seating areas, a kiosk with toilets.

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It had hoped to open by this summer, although this hasn’t been confirmed.

Daryl Nobbs, Director of Betongpark, said: “As a team of lifelong skaters, we’re pleased to be building the new park on the site of the former DIY skatepark, working closely alongside a strong local scene.

“Once built, the new concrete skatepark will be one of the UK’s best, set in a beautiful location overlooking the waterfront.

“The concept design includes a range of street and transition-focused elements across a vast site, to provide something for everyone.”

The project is part of the £22.2million Margate Town Deal.

Other plans include improving Walpole Bay, home to one of the UK’s biggest tidal pools.

A new cafe, shower and toilet block and community spaces are part of the improvement plans.

Both Theatre Royal Margate and the Winter Gardens also hope to reopen.

I lived in Cliftonville for a few years after leaving London, and saw how quickly it was changing for the better.

New locally run restaurants and bars were opening, including wine bar Sete as well as the new pub The Local Light.

Margate House is one of the coolest new hotels with its new Willy’s restaurant serving ‘comfort food dishes’.

It still has a way to go – there are ongoing problems with fly tipping in the area and some of the high street still has shops that have been boarded up for years.

But the community is what makes it, from the weekend farmers markets to the huge number of pop up events.

In the mean time, here is everything new coming to Folkestone this year as part of a £20million expansion.

And we’ve rounded up our favourite places in Kent.

ONE spot in the capital dubs itself ‘London’s quirkiest church’ because inside you’ll find a soft play – and a fully stocked bar for the parents.

Inside St James Church in West Hampstead, London, you will find the Sherriff Centre.

Rather unusually, the venue is a blend of different things including a post office, children’s soft play centre, cafe and even a stationery shop.

The soft play area – called Hullabaloo – spans one side of the church and features all you would expect of a soft play centre.

In the section for kids aged between two and 10-years-old, there are three levels featuring two slides, crawl tunnels and hidey holes.

The soft play also has separate sections for babies up to 23 months with a ball pit, puzzles and games and a sensory mirror.

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One person commented on social media: “Wow what a unique soft play!”

Another added: “What a fun idea and a great way to start the weekend.”

There are also SEN sessions available, and the venue is available for private party hire.

The Sanctuary Cafe and Bar serves cake, coffee and even wine.

Even though the venue doesn’t serve more than snacks, it has teamed up with Pizza Bun London in Hampstead for an exclusive offer for visitors heading to the soft play.

The soft play is open each day between 9am and 5pm, with the last booking at 4pm.

But there are Play Late sessions too, where kids can play as parents enjoy a glass of wine at the bar.

The next Play Late session is March 20, followed by April 10 and May 22.

Tickets cost £5.50 for babies or £7.50 for juniors and adults go free.

The centre also runs weekly baby and toddler classes such as Petite Performers, with ballet and dancing.

Sometimes there are Sofar Sounds live music events on at the church too.

Memberships are available for the soft play, with a babies membership costing £15 per month for four sessions.

A Bronze membership then costs £10 a month for two soft play sessions, Silver costs £20 a month for three sessions, a 10 per cent discount at the cafe and early access to book event tickets.

Finally, a Gold membership costing £40 per month, gets you six soft play sessions, a 10 per cent discount at the café, two Sofar Sounds tickets and early access to book event tickets.

The soft play is just a couple of minutes’ walking from West Hampstead underground and train stations.

It isn’t the only church to have something unusual inside…

In Redbridge, London, a swimming pool described as “magical” can be found in an old hospital church.

It is a Virgin Active gym now with a 24-metre pool as well as showers, hot tub and steam room.

For more places to take your kids, a travel expert shares the best free London attractions for kids.

Plus, the English counties with the most free family activities from pony sanctuaries and steam railways to soft plays.

TIME has named its Best Places to see and stay in 2026 this year, which included two spots in the UK.

I visited the V&A Storehouse in Stratford shortly after it opened last summer.

The London museum was the only other entry on the 100 places list that was in the UK, along with an afternoon tea experience The Maid of Somerset.

When it comes to the new V&A Storehouse – joining the likes of the original Victoria and Albert Museum and V&A Dundee – it isn’t your usual museum.

Right off the bat, it’s free, which is a huge bonus for trying to explore London on a budget.

Even better is that you don’t have to book ahead, and there are free lockers to use too.

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However, the museum itself is one for fans of the concept of museums, rather than any theme or designs.

For example, my favourite museum is the Kensington V&A, for its fashion exhibits while my mum-friends love taking their kids to the Science Museum.

But the V&A Museum feels more like an IKEA showroom, with a mix of collections rather than a set theme.

The website states: “There are curated mini displays across all three levels of Storehouse.

“Go behind the scenes and take your own path through the worlds of art, design, performance, fashion and more.”

Described as a “working museum,” it certainly has interesting elements.

One that has been praised is the Order an Object scheme which lets you ‘order’ on of the 1.25million objects across the V&A museums.

You then select a time and date appointment to come an see it up close.

But for standard museum goers, especially those with little kids, this museum might not be one for them.

It is three floors of metal walkways, so kids running around are likely to cause chaos.

And I found some of the items hard to understand, with some having limited descriptions.

It is certainly a fascinating and unique take on museums – but unless you are a fan of them as a concept, perhaps not one to go out of your way for.

It is now home to a David Bowie exhibit, a permanent archive of some of his most famous pieces.

And there are also a range of events, including the upcoming The Music is Black: A British Story this week.

Here is London’s weirdest free museum.

And we’ve rounded up the best free kids attractions in London.