Kensington offers a splendid blend of family-friendly destinations. Whether you’re a local resident or just visiting, spending a day exploring Kensington with kids can be a delightful experience. With all the hustle and bustle of city life and managing a household, we know it can get complex coming up with new entertaining ideas. To help you out, here’s our curated list of destinations that promise both entertainment and education.

Bibliotheque Quentin Blake

If you’re seeking somewhere relaxed to engage the minds of your little ones look no further than this hidden gem. Named after the cherished patron Sir Quentin Blake, Bibliothèque Quentin Blake is a haven where children and families immerse themselves in the joy of reading, playing, learning and crafting stories together. This two-floor library, adorned with original artworks by illustrious illustrators, is a treasure trove for literary enthusiasts. It features a magnificent mural decoration handcrafted by the legendary Quentin Blake himself.

As you step into this literary wonderland, you’ll discover a multitude of informal and comfortable reading spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages exploration. The children’s library, a paradise for young minds up to 12 years old, houses an extensive collection of hundreds of books and materials. It’s a space designed to ignite the love for reading and storytelling, fostering a lifelong appreciation for the written word. The library’s commitment to providing a diverse range of materials ensures that children of all ages find something captivating to delve into.

So, whether you’re curled up in one of the cosy reading nooks or participating in the exciting events that frequently unfold, Bibliothèque Quentin Blake invites you to embark on a literary journey filled with magic and discovery. It’s a haven where stories come to life, and the love for reading is nurtured in the hearts of the youngest bibliophiles.

The Ampersand Hotel, Science Afternoon Tea

With the Science Museum just around the corner, The Ampersand Hotel has taken it as an inspiration to develop their menu to appeal to both parents and children, for education and fun. This is where gastronomy meets physics and chemistry for an out-of-this-world experience. The award-winning afternoon tea experiments with sounds and visuals to engage children in a new way to explore food, textures and taste. Their exciting and curious dishes range from chocolate spaceman, dinosaur shaped biscuits and petri dishes of jam, an ever changing selection. Prepared by their team of culinary experts, this is an unmissable experience.

If you’re seeking an opportunity to have an engaging experience around food with imaginative discussions about outer space and teaching moments, this is a special treat for everyone.

Royal College of Music, Sparks Events

Whether you’re introducing your little ones to the enchanting world of music or seeking inspiring ways to delve deeper into its nuances, the Royal College of Music’s Sparks Events has programs that can be tailored to exactly what you’re looking for. At RCM Sparks, you’re little one will be part of the unforgettable joy of live performances, engaging workshops and enriching courses.

They host events for children and families every term, offering a diverse range of experiences. Current and upcoming events are showcased on their website with tickets released towards the end of each term for the following term’s events. With their commitment to making the magic of music accessible to all they also offer free places and tickets for many of their events

From the family-friendly ambiance of Half Term Family Fun to the early curiosity sparked by Mini Music Makers and the comprehensive musical journey of the Explorers Course, each event contributes to a symphony of possibilities. The Family Workshop and Concert offer an interactive experience drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of the Royal College of Music Museum, while the RCM Young Bassoon Programme caters to young musicians aged 11–18. Join RCM Sparks on to engage the minds of the next generation of talented musicians!

Hyde Park Learning Center: Discovery Days

Hyde Park Learning Centre offers enchanting experiences with their recurring Discovery Days, providing families with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature. The upcoming “Brilliant Birds Extravaganza,” invites participants to a free and drop-in event. Nestled in a secure and fully enclosed site with essential facilities, the centre promises a comfortable environment for families to engage in bird-inspired activities, from following educational discovery trails to bird watching, dissecting owl pellets and crafting intricate bird nests. This ongoing series ensures that families can connect with nature and enjoy unique learning experiences throughout the changing seasons, fostering a love for the outdoors and creating lasting memories.

First Touch FC

For those looking for a place for their kids to let off some steam by learning some technical skills, First Touch FC is a great choice. The team at First Touch FC stands as a distinguished kids’ football club with a profound commitment to providing an exceptional football experience for children of all ages, genders and abilities. They operate with a simple mission: to deliver comprehensive football training that addresses each child’s individual needs and aspirations, recognising that football is not just a sport but a transformative journey instilling discipline, teamwork and self-confidence.

What sets them apart is their dedication to employing specialised training techniques, merging the best of British, Dutch, Spanish and Brazilian coaching styles. This ensures that your child receives the most well-rounded football training tailored to their unique strengths and developmental requirements. Success stories abound, with many participants progressing to train with esteemed Premier League teams like Q.P.R., Chelsea and Fulham, while football is central, prioritising creating an environment fostering fun, friendship and freedom of expression.

What will you choose to do in Kensington with Kids?

Kensington unfolds as a treasure trove of family-friendly destinations, each offering a unique blend of entertainment and education. The Bibliothèque Quentin Blake is a literary wonderland fostering a love for reading and storytelling, the enchanting Science Afternoon Tea at The Ampersand Hotel unveils a new way to engage with education. Kensington truly has something for every family’s taste. The Royal College of Music’s Sparks Events elevates the experience with an unforgettable journey into the world of music, while Hyde Park Learning Centre’s recurring Discovery Days provide an enchanting immersion in the wonders of nature. Lastly, for those seeking a balance of skill development and fun, First Touch FC stands out as a distinguished football club nurturing discipline, teamwork and self-confidence. In Kensington, each destination contributes to an unforgettable day filled with laughter, learning and the forging of lasting memories.