Summer in South Ken

This summer there is lots to do in South Kensington if you are looking for a great day out - from boating on the Serpentine, visiting some of South Ken's brand new exhibitions, enjoying a big-screen experience at the Science Museum's IMAX cinema and so much more...


IMAX: The Ronson Theatre

Experience this fully immersive IMAX on one of the UK’s largest screens, featuring IMAX Laser 4K and 70mm projection. Enjoy scientific documentaries and the latest blockbusters.

Princess Diana Memorial walk

The Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk takes visitors through four of the most beautiful parks in the world, including Hyde Park and Kensington Palace.

Family Trails at the Science Museum

Go on a journey of discovery and exploration around the Science Museum.

Giants of Today Trail

From hefty herbivores to jungle jumbos, discover who's topping the charts when it comes to being the biggest, the tallest and the heaviest of them all. Follow the trail to meet some of world's biggest animals and to find out all about the highs and lows that come with being so big.

Medicine: The Wellcome Galleries

Showcasing extraordinary medical artefacts including the world’s first MRI scanner, Fleming’s penicillin mould, a professional pianist’s prosthetic arm and even robotic surgery equipment.

The Italian Gardens

The Italian Gardens is a 150-year-old ornamental water garden located on the north side of Kensington Gardens near Lancaster Gate. It is believed to have been created as a gift from Prince Albert to his beloved Queen Victoria.

The Garden

The Garden is an exciting interactive space, created especially for children aged 3–6 and their parents and carers in the basement of the Museum.

Mon - Sun

10 am - 5.30 pm

Science Museum

Map

Visit Website for The Garden at Science Museum

The Orangery Restaurant

After major conservation work, the 18th-century Orangery at Kensington Palace has reopened its doors. Visit the iconic restaurant in a stunning setting for an elegant lunch or an indulgent afternoon tea.

John Madejski Garden & Café

Recharge and cool down in the heart of the V&A. A place for kids to paddle in the courtyard shallow pool or grab a drink while surrounded by summer planting and stunning Victorian architecture.

American Photographs

Their collection of photography from the United States – one of the largest outside North America – reveals the breadth of the country's photographic traditions and the central role of image-making in American life.

Until 16th May 2027

Mon-Sun: 10 am - 5.45 pm; Fri: 10 am - 10 pm

V&A South Kensington

Map

Visit Website for American Photographs at V&A South Kensington

The Natural History Museum Gardens

Meet a full-size Diplodocus, encounter early mammals, and follow our ancestors’ footsteps. Explore grassland, wetland, and woodland habitats, and see how nature thrives in cities. No booking needed.

Hyde Park Self Guided Walks

Discover the magic of Hyde Park on a self-guided walk, exploring its history, wildlife, and horticulture along the way.

Serpentine Lido

The Serpentine Lido is, arguably, London's most iconic 'open water' swimming location. The Lido is open for public swimming on weekends from mid-May, and every day between June and Mid-September.

Mid-May to mid-Sept

10am-6pm

The Royal Parks

Map

Visit Website for Serpentine Lido at The Royal Parks

Our Story with David Attenborough

Last chance to see Our Story with David Attenborough, which delves into the saga of our species from our earliest beginnings. Sir David draws on a nearly century-long career as he shares his hopes for people and planet.

Until 30th Aug 2026

10 am - 5.50 pm

Natural History Museum

Map

Visit Website for Our Story with David Attenborough at Natural History Museum

Ciné Lumière

Ciné Lumière screens new releases, UK premieres, classics, documentaries, family films, and curated series or festivals, often accompanied by on-stage discussions with directors, actors, and critics.

Earth Photo 2026

Earth Photo addresses prescient issues affecting our planet, aiming to stimulate conversations about our environment and the impact of climate change.

Until 24th July 2026

10 am - 5 pm

Royal Geographical Society

Map

Visit Website for Earth Photo 2026 at Royal Geographical Society

Design Camp for ages 7 to 10: Create in Clay

A day of hands-on exploration for children to experiment with clay, from creating pinch pots to wheel throwing and turning, to crafting tools. They will be introduced to the tactile material of clay and its many properties.

Turn Plastic into Fabric, ages 7–10

In this hands-on workshop, children will learn how to transform everyday plastic bags into fusible eco-friendly fabric that can be used for all kinds of creative projects.

Designing with Light and Shadow, ages 11–14

Using plants from the museum's garden, this workshop will introduce young people to cyanotype, a beautiful technique that uses photosensitive dye and sunlight to create blue prints on paper or fabric.

Places to Eat

If you are planning a day out in South Kensington, there are lots of delicious places to eat or enjoy a drink both inside and outside depending on the weather. From cafes, bars, afternoon tea to indoor picnic areas - there is plenty of choice!

Smithsonian Starstruck: An Immersive Experience

Smithsonian Starstruck: An Immersive Experience is a first-of-its-kind virtual reality adventure that doesn't just show you the universe — it places you inside it.

Day Promming at the BBC Proms

Experience the unique tradition of 'Promming' with Day Promming tickets from just £8. Tickets are released at 9.30 am on the day of most concerts via the relevant Prom event page, where the red 'Day Promming' button will appear when they're available. If you miss out online, a limited number of tickets may also be available in person at Door 12, subject to availability.

17th Jul - 12th Sept 2026

Times vary

Royal Albert Hall

Map

Visit Website for Day Promming at the BBC Proms at Royal Albert Hall

Family Festival: Make

A vibrant two day summer celebration where all ages can dive into creativity, share stories, and explore inspiring sustainable worlds from across the globe.

25th - 26th July 2026

11 am - 4 pm

V&A South Kensington

Map

Visit Website for Family Festival: Make at V&A South Kensington

Park Nights 2026

Park Nights return for 2026 offering you a unique way to experience architecture and performance. On selected evenings from July to October the Serpentine Pavilion 2026: a serpentine becomes the stage for a series of interdisciplinary artistic interventions.