Travelling with an older teen to London this summer? Here's how to occupy them...
If you're travelling to London with older teens or young adults this summer, you'll know that keeping them gainfully occupied can be a full-time endeavour. Here, we reveal ways to harness all that energy with our pick of 21 fun things to do in the city.
1. Tomb Raider Live, Camden
Inspired by the famous Tomb Raider video game franchise, this immersive experience invites you to become the hero as you solve puzzles and outsmart enemies to collect precious relics.
Find out more
2. The Crystal Maze Live Experience
Test your problem-solving skills and face mental and physical challenges during a 75 minute excape-room experience based on the popular 90s TV show.
Find out more
3. Speedboat down the Thames
Thrill-seeking teens can see the sights of London at high speed on Thames Rockets RIP experience. Tours last 50 or 80 minutes.
Find out more
4. Al Fresco film evening (Peckham or Stratford)
Make the most of summer in the city with an outdoor cinema screening at one of two cool venues. Check website for times and film choices.
Find out more - Peckham / Stratford
5. Behind the scenes tours of Lord’s Cricket Ground
Glimpse behind the scenes at the 'The Home of Cricket' at Lord's Cricket Ground and see the famous Ashes Urn.
Find out more
6. Go Ape! Alexandra Palace
Adrenaline junkies will love the 2-3 hour Treetop Challenge at Go Ape in Alexandra Palace Park. Panoramic views of the city are just reward.
Find out more
7. See a real-life trial at the Old Bailey
One for aspiring lawyers or those fascinated by true-crime dramas, watching a trial in the public gallery at the iconic Old Bailey is a unique experience you'll never forget. Entry is free, but be prepared to queue.
Find out more
8. London Ghost Bus Tour
This tongue-in-cheek tour is hosted by professional actors on board a gothic-themed 1960s Routemaster bus. Daily tours last 1 hour 15 minutes.
Find out more
9. Tunnel walk at the Postal Museum
See what lies beneath the streets of London on a fascinating guided walking tour through 100-year-old Mail Rail tunnels, 70ft down, at the Postal Museum.
Find out more
10. Experience fun installation art at Lightroom
Indulge your creative side at a fun exhibition from veteran artist David Hockney. The immersive installations feature works created by Hockney using an iPad
Find out more
11. Theatre shows for less at National Theatre (12-25yo)
Teens and young adults can see theatre shows at specially reduced prices at the Olivier, Lyttleton, and Dorfman theatres. Discounts on some courses are also included.
Find out more
12. Climb the rigging at Cutty Sark
Step back in time on a Cutty Sark Rig Climb experience in historic Greenwich.
Find out more
13. Up at the O2, Climb the O2 venue Docklands
See this famous attraction from a different perspective on a climb over the iconic domed roof.
Find out more
14. White water rafting at Lee Valley White Water Centre
Not for the faint of heart, the Olympic-standard white water course at Lee Valley is just the ticket for adventurous teens. Canoeing, kayaking, hydrospeeding and paddle boarding are also available.
Find out more
15. Musical jam session at We Jam Camden
This immersive Rockstar Experience is perfect for older teens who enjoy playing and/or listening to music. Sessions can even be recorded.
Find out more
16. Experience Archery, north London
Complete beginners as well as those who want to hone their stills are welcome at Experience Archery. Engage in some casual target practice or take a course.
Find out more
17. Learn to play Polo, Ham nr Richmond
Add an impressive new skill to your bow with Polo lessons at Ham Polo Club. Individual lessons or courses can be arranged and the horse and equipment is provided in the cost.
Find out more
18. Watch a polo match at Guards Polo Club, Windsor Great Park
If watching rather than playing is more your thing, a Polo match at the illustrious Guards Polo Club is a great day out. Check website for match schedule.
Find out more
19. Indoor crazy golf - West End
Modelled on a quintessential 1920s British seaside town, Swingers West End a great way for a group of friends to while away a few hours.
Find out more
20. Virtual clay target shooting experience - Moorgate
Work on your target practice and compete with friends at this interactive clay target experience on huge screens in the heart of the City of London.
Find out more
21. Flippers roller skate disco, Shepherd's Bush
If you hadn't noticed, roller skating is having a moment and the return of the 80s roller disco is a joy to behold! Skate round to the music, or cling for dear life to the sides - either way, enormous fun will be had trying.
Find out more
