It’s officially spring in London and the city bursts into life with blooming gardens, vibrant festivals, and LOADS of outdoor activities perfect for families. From world-renowned flower shows to interactive nature challenges, there’s no shortage of events to keep Londoners entertained this spring 2025. Here’s some of our top picks.
🌸 Kew Gardens: The Power of Trees
The Power of Trees exhibition at Kew Gardens is a must-visit for families this spring. Running from 12 April to 14 September 2025 at the Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Art, this immersive experience celebrates the profound beauty and significance of trees through art, science, and storytelling.
Kew Gardens is unveiling a captivating new exhibition this May: Of the Oak, an immersive digital installation by the acclaimed art collective Marshmallow Laser Feast. Running from 3 May to 28 September 2025, this groundbreaking outdoor exhibit invites visitors to explore the hidden life of Kew’s majestic Lucombe oak.
🌷 Chelsea Flower Show & Surrounding Blooms
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show returns from 20th to 24th May 2025, showcasing cutting-edge garden designs and horticultural excellence. While tickets are required for the main event, the surrounding areas come alive with free floral displays:
- Chelsea in Bloom: Local businesses adorn their storefronts with creative floral installations, turning the streets into an open-air gallery. This yeear’s theme is Flower in Fashion so get your best floral outfit on and head on down to Chelsea to celebrate with lots of special offers, family-friendly events and plenty of Insta-worthy moments.
- Belgravia in Bloom: This neighborhood hosts its own floral festival, featuring themed displays and family-friendly activities.
🌿 Canary Wharf: Whale on the Wharf & FREE minigolf
East London’s only free-to-play minigolf makes its eagerly anticipated return to Canary Wharf this spring, opening daily from Friday 4 April on Montgomery Square. The vibrant 9-hole course, designed by artists Craig Redman and Karl Maier, offers the perfect family challenge with friendly event stewards providing clubs and balls for spontaneous tournaments. For those seeking even more active fun, the popular neighbouring ping pong tables remain available for quick-fire matches between shopping and dining.
Penguin Books have partnered with Canary Wharf to curate a bespoke collection of book passages that explore nature, the environment and humanity. Packed inside this machine are extracts from some of the world leaders in visionary thinking, honouring our planet and investigating the impact humanity has had on Earth. Whilst visiting the area you can also check out Whale on the Wharf – the newest addition to Canary Wharf’s permanent art collection can be found leaping from the dock at Water Street in Wood Wharf! Comprised of 5 tonnes of plastic waste pulled out of the ocean, Whale on the Wharf stands as a reminder of the millions of tonnes of plastic waste still swimming in our oceans…
🌳 City Nature Challenge at Regent’s Park
Join the global City Nature Challenge on 25th and 26th April 2025 at The Regent’s Park. Participate in a nature recording walk using the iNaturalist app to document local wildlife, or bring the whole family on Saturday for drop-in activities like scavenger hunts, nature crafts, and interactive games. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature and contribute to science efforts.
🌸 Garden Museum: Earth Day & Spring Plant Fair
The Garden Museum hosts Earth Day for Families on 29 April 2025, offering hands-on activities and workshops. Additionally, the Spring Plant Fair on 27 April 2025 features talks and a variety of plants for sale, perfect for gardening enthusiasts.
🌼 Tulip Festival at Hampton Court Palace
From 11th April to 5th May 2025, Hampton Court Palace hosts its annual Tulip Festival, featuring over 100,000 tulip bulbs in bloom. Explore the vibrant displays in the formal gardens and historic courtyards, and enjoy the ‘floating’ tulip bowls in the Great Fountain. It’s a visual feast for all ages
Chelsea Physic Garden Plant Festival
On Saturday 3 May 2025, Chelsea Physic Garden hosts its Plant Festival, a celebration of spring that’s perfect for families. Enjoy free entry to explore the historic garden, browse a plant and gift market, and attend gardening demonstrations throughout the day. It’s an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and discover the joys of gardening
🏃♂️ Regent’s Park 5K & 10K Runs
For active families, the Regent’s Park 5K and 10K runs are scheduled for 12th April and 24th May 2025. These events offer a scenic route through one of London’s most beautiful parks, with views of the zoo and plenty of post-race goodies. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a beginner, it’s a fun way to get moving together.
🌿 Spring into Community at Wakehurst
Kew’s wild botanic garden in Sussex, Wakehurst, invites families to “Spring into Community” on 24th, 25th April, and 3rd May 2025. This year’s theme, ‘Seeds,’ offers activities like botanical screen printing, sensory garden tours, and pollinator safaris. It’s an educational and immersive experience celebrating biodiversity and conservation.
🎭 Open-Air Theatre in Regent’s Park
Experience the magic of live performances under the stars at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. The 2025 season kicks off in May with a lineup of family-friendly shows set against the backdrop of nature. It’s a unique cultural outing that combines the arts with the great outdoors.
🌸 Dulwich Festival
From 9th to 18th May 2025, the Dulwich Festival celebrates local art and culture. Families can enjoy open house weekends, street fairs, and various performances throughout the neighborhood. It’s a wonderful way to engage with the community and explore the area’s creative spirit.
🌿 The Green Meet at Fulham Palace – Sunday 11 May 2025
Fulham Palace’s annual Green Meet returns on Sunday 11 May 2025, offering a day filled with workshops, games, and activities for all ages. This family-friendly festival celebrates gardens, biodiversity, and the wonders of the natural world. Join in educational walks and talks on topics like birdwatching, pollinators, and sustainable gardening. Explore the green market, participate in creative crafts, and enjoy a fun-filled day at the historic Palace.
Embrace the Season
Spring 2025 in London offers a rich tapestry of outdoor experiences perfect for families. Whether you’re exploring world-class gardens, participating in community science projects, or enjoying cultural festivals, there’s something to inspire and delight everyone. So pack a picnic, grab your walking shoes, and make the most of the season’s offerings.
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