Mothering Sunday (March 15th, 2026) is fast approaching, and if you’re looking to move beyond the standard supermarket bouquet, London is pulling out all the stops. Whether your mum is a West End wanderer, a creative soul, or a fan of the traditional “fizz and finger sandwiches,” we’ve rounded up the best ways to celebrate in the capital.
The classic: afternoon tea with a twist
You can’t go wrong with tea, but 2026 is all about the “experience” tea.
- Japanese Tapas Style Afternoon Tea at La Bibliotheque is a creative twist on the traditional afternoon tea that offers a unique and indulgent blend of sweet and savoury bites inspired by Japanese and Mediterranean flavours.
- The Royal neighbourhoods walk with luxury afternoon tea brings together the best of London’s regal elegance: breathtaking sights, romantic tales from the palace and the finest scones, sandwiches and and pastries prepared by a talented chef.
- London Afternoon Tea Cruise: One of the best way to enjoy London’s breathtaking vistas whilst enjoying a nice conversation, unlimited tea or coffee and scrumptious sandwiches.
For the arty mum: the museum and gallery treat
In a city as culturally rich as London, museums and art galleries are elegant spaces that offer more than just exhibits; they provide a vibrant and contemplative sanctuary where you can wander through history or stand together to admire striking works of art. Whether you’re exploring the historic depiction of a beautiful part of London, like the Donald Towner homecoming at Burgh House or marvelling at Seurat’s pointillism technique, celebrating art in London with your mum is an experience that favours quality conversation over the rush of the everyday. Here are three art activities we think you may enjoy:
- London celebrates three contemporary British female artists this season: Rose Wylie, “the rebel painter” is showing at the Royal Academy, Tracy Emin shocks with her confessional landmark show at Tate Modern, and the homecoming of Cecily Brown at The Serpentine opens on 27 March. We took a peek.
- Gesture and Being at Saatchi Gallery is the free art show that brings together new work from six recent graduates of Royal College of Art.
- Magical Realms: Nature, Myth & Imagination and the UK Colour Pencil Society – Silver Exhibition at Mall Galleries are ending on 21 March. Come and have a look!
For the creative mum: workshops & crafting
If she prefers getting her hands dirty to sitting still, London’s workshop scene is thriving.
- Perfume and Posy making at Chelsea Physic Garden are always popular workshops. And in addition, they offer a good opportunity to spend the afternoon in London’s oldest botanical garden.
- Mother’s Day Eco-stone Workshop: Daisies Napkin Rings spend a relaxing hands-on session creating your own beautiful daisy napkin rings using eco-stone casting techniques.
- This Candle Making Workshop in Shoreditch is perfect for beginners.
Pro Tip: Mother’s Day is one of the busiest days of the year for London experiences. Whatever you plan to do, please check first and book in advance!
Take her to the stage
The West End is particularly sparkly this Mother’s Day, with several shows offering special Sunday matinees.
- ABBA Voyage is a classic favourite when it comes to getting together to enjoy a spectacular performance and great music. And, for a feel-good classic, Mamma Mia! at the Novello Theatre remains the undisputed queen of Mother’s Day outings.
- New for 2026: Look out for A Mirrored Monet at the Charing Cross Theatre, a stunning new musical about the life of the painter that’s perfect for art-loving mums.
- Spectacular Visuals: My Neighbour Totoro at the Gillian Lynne Theatre is a magical, breathtaking production that will delight both the mums and kids of all ages.
- For a story of honey and hope, check out The Beekeper of Aleppo, playing at Richmond Theatre for few days only between 10 to 14 March, then at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Guildford from 17 to 21 March 2026.
- And for a laugh, come and see the The League of Improv at The Phoenix Arts Club on 26 March for a high-energy, fast-paced joyfully unpredictable comedy sesh.
Make it extra special with a pre-show dinner at Colonel Saab. Our favourite luxurious Indian cuisine spot with hospitality that never disappoints.
The great outdoors (weather permitting!)
If the March sun decides to shine, take a stroll through one of the city’s green lungs.
- Kew Gardens: The spring blooms will be in full force. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy the cherry blossom and the gentle sounds of spring by visiting their most recent Sounds of Blossom event.
- Give her the gift of 120 gardens. Show your forward planning skills and get tickets for London Open Gardens weekend taking place on 6 and 7 June 2026. This is a great opportunity to enjoy a summer weekend by visiting London’s most beautiful gardens. From squares to allotments and community gardens and historic or roof top green spaces there is a lot to enjoy.
- If you and your mum love thew Thames as much as we do, then the Thames Rocket Speedboat Experience is the ideal adrenaline infusing experience you need.
Keep up to date with more family-friendly fun by following us on Instagram. For more ideas of things to do with the kids in London, visit our events and activities area which provides details of free and ticketed events and special offers from London’s finest venues.