Looking for fun, easy and affordable family activities in Hampstead? Whether you’re planning weekend adventures, after-school outings or trying to keep the kids entertained during the holidays, Hampstead and the surrounding North London area are packed with family-friendly things to do. From outdoor adventures on Hampstead Heath to creative rainy-day activities and relaxed family dining, there’s something for every age to enjoy – and O2 Centre makes the perfect base for your day out!
Take things outdoors
When it comes to outdoor activities in Hampstead, it’s hard to beat a day exploring the famous Hampstead Heath! One of London’s best-loved green spaces, Hampstead Heath offers families endless opportunities for fresh air, exercise and outdoor fun.
Families can enjoy pram-friendly walking routes, woodland trails and open green spaces perfect for games and picnics. Children will love spotting wildlife, exploring nature and visiting the ponds, while parents can enjoy some of the best views in London. There are also several playgrounds nearby, making it easy to turn a simple walk into a fun-filled family adventure.
If you’re searching for free family activities in London, Hampstead Heath is a great option all year round. Whether you’re visiting after school or making the most of a sunny weekend, it’s an easy way to spend quality time together outdoors. Don’t forget to stop by the O2 Centre – whether you’re grabbing coffees and snacks for the walk, picking up picnic essentials, or enjoying a relaxed family lunch after a busy morning exploring, the shopping centre has everything you need to make the most of your outdoor fun. Conveniently located close to Hampstead and Finchley Road, O2 Centre is the perfect addition to any family day out in North London.
Get creative
Need inspiration for rainy day activities for kids in London? Hampstead has lots of creative and educational activities that are perfect for curious young minds. Families can explore new reads at Waterstones, which also hosts regular storytelling sessions and events, including drawing workshops and author meet and greets for young readers to enjoy. Here in the O2 Centre, you'll also find our fantastic Community Piano, which fills the centre with music and can be played by all guests at any time – don’t be shy, come and have a go!
Hampstead is also home to kids' music, dance and drama classes, making it a fantastic destination for after school activities. Nearby cultural attractions, including Camden Art Centre, Keats House and the Freud Museum, also offer inspiring experiences for families, while larger London attractions such as the British Museum and London Zoo are easily accessible for educational day trips during weekends and school holidays.
O2 Centre is a great place to continue the creativity at home too. Stop by stores like Waterstones for inspiring children’s books, activity sets and educational games, or browse home and lifestyle stores like Flying Tiger, for arts, crafts and creative supplies. Whether you’re entertaining toddlers, primary school children or teenagers, there are plenty of ways to encourage imagination and learning. For families looking for educational activities for children in London, combining local cultural experiences with a visit to O2 Centre creates an easy and enjoyable day out.
Food and drink
No family day out is complete without somewhere convenient to stop for food, and Hampstead offers plenty of child-friendly cafes and casual dining options. Whether you need space for a pram, a quick lunch between activities or somewhere relaxed to recharge after a busy morning, O2 Centre has everything in one place and makes family outings far less stressful.
From quick bites and coffee stops at Starbucks to sit-down meals at Nando's, it’s easy to build food, shopping and entertainment into one simple trip. With Sainsbury's and Aldi both on-site and offering up fresh ingredients, family favourites and grab-and-go options too, you can ensure your family is happy and well fed, whether you're enjoying a family meal out or picking up produce to cook up a feast at home.
Affordable family days out in London don’t have to mean travelling across the city — and having shopping, dining and activities all in one place makes planning a day out that much easier.
Plan your visit to O2 Centre
Located a very short walk away from Finchley Road Underground Station and close to Hampstead Heath, O2 Centre is the perfect base for family days out in North London. With family-friendly restaurants and cafés, shopping, entertainment and convenient parking all in one place, it’s easy to plan a stress-free visit for everything from local exploring and weekend activities to school holiday entertainment.
