Family-friendly art and culture activities in London
Back to ItineriesLondon’s West End is a treasure trove of art and culture, perfect for a fun-filled family day out to make the most of the last few days of the Summer Holidays.
Dive into a world of bold installations, theatre, and delicious dining with these family-friendly highlights ahead of the August bank holiday.
Start your day with Yinka Ilori’s Art
Head to Piccadilly Circus from 20 to 25 August 2024, to see the vibrant art installation ‘Good Things Come To Those Who Wait’ by Yinka Ilori MBE.
This eye-catching display features majestic 23-foot-tall Pegasus sculptures, inspired by Greek Mythology, against the backdrop the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain at Piccadilly Circus. Set on bright orange and yellow plinths, these figures are adorned with uplifting messages in Ilori’s vibrant style.
While you're there, pick up free colouring sheets available online and on-site, and meet Young Ambassadors from the Greater London Authority’s youth program, who will share fascinating local history and hidden gems.
Catch Hadestown at the Lyric Theatre
No trip to London would be complete without a trip to a West End theatre. Don’t miss ‘Hadestown’ the hit Broadway musical now at the Lyric Theatre. Created by Anaïs Mitchell and director Rachel Chavkin, this mesmerising show reimagines Greek myths with a spellbinding twist.
Join stars of Greek mythology, Orpheus and Eurydice, and see the powerful King Hades and his wife Persephone in a captivating journey to the underworld. This musical is full of emotion and hope, offering a magical experience you’ll never forget.
Get your tickets now and don’t forget—kids 17 and under can enjoy FREE tickets to select West End shows with a full-paying adult throughout August during Kids Week. Hadestown is recommended for children aged 8 and above.
Delicious Southern flavours at Americana
Experience a slice of Southern charm in the heart of London at Americana, where you can enjoy 20% off food and drinks every evening from 20 to 25 August.
Treat yourself to mouthwatering Southern delicacies in a cosy, inviting atmosphere. Watch as talented chefs prepare your favourite dishes in Americana’s theatre-style kitchen. From sizzling flame-grilled oysters and fluffy waffles to juicy grass-fed steaks and flavorful smoked wings, Americana offers something to satisfy every craving.
Plus, Kids Eat Free with a full paying adult meal. To get this tasty deal, book your table through the link below and mention ‘Yinka Ilori’.
© The National Gallery, London
The National Gallery
Visit The National Gallery to see the enchanting ‘The Judgement of Paris’ by Peter Paul Ruben.
This painting shows a key moment in Greek mythology. Paris, a prince raised as a shepherd, must choose the most beautiful goddess: Venus, Juno, or Minerva. He gives the golden apple to Venus after she promises him the love of Helen, the most beautiful woman in the world. This decision will eventually lead to the Trojan War. In the painting, Paris’s choice is celebrated by the god Mercury, with four cherubs descending to crown Venus.
Cast Corridor, RA Schools, 2024. Photo: © David Parry / Royal Academy of Arts © Justine Trickett, 2022
Royal Academy of Arts
Make your way to the Royal Academy of Arts and head to the Rausing Hall to discover the impressive Cast of the Farnese Hercules, c.1790. This striking statue, originally shipped from Rome, showcases the mythological hero Hercules resting on his club with the Nemean lion’s skin draped over it. This heroic figure represents the first of Hercules' legendary twelve labours.
While you're in the Rausing Hall, don’t miss the Venus de Milo, 19th century. This plaster cast is a replica of the famous classical statue found on the Greek island of Melos in 1820 and now housed in the Louvre. The Venus de Milo’s arrival in the Louvre followed the return of the Venus de’ Medici to Italy after being briefly displayed in France. The statue was widely celebrated and even featured prominently in exhibitions across Europe.
The Horses of Helios
At the corner of Piccadilly and Haymarket, close to 1 Jermyn Street and the Criterion Theatre, you’ll find the impressive ‘Horses of Helios’ sculpture. Created by Rudy Weller and unveiled in 1992, this bronze artwork depicts four powerful horses—Aethon, Eous, Phlegon, and Pyrois—bursting from a fountain. They represent the fiery steeds of Helios, the Greek sun god.
The sculpture includes three bronze pieces: a pair of horses weighing about 4 tons each and two individual figures. It’s a striking tribute to Helios and a great spot for a family photo!