Things to do in London during the October half term: museums, theatre, afternoon tea and more

Ah, half of the October term. A week that comes to parents every year: the children have only been back at school for a few weeks, but it is already time to say goodbye to the school year routine that you dreamed about all summer holidays.

However, you don’t have to worry. This term comes at the perfect time: Halloween celebrations are already underway and there’s a whole host of activities in London for every family to get involved in. As you prepare to celebrate the end of the week in style (costumes with safety pins, clearing out pumpkin seeds and sticking blue plastic to the walls), we’ve put together a guide to some of the best activities in the capital to keep you — and the kids – busy, from Swan Lake at the cinema to spooky afternoon teas.

The Natural History Museum has long been a safe choice for birthdays, rainy Saturdays and holidays, and this South Kensington Halloween venue goes all out. The sixtieth exhibition of Wildlife Photographer of the Year has just arrived in the galleries (and runs until June) and promises to be a feast for the eyes for all ages. If your kids are into the more prehistoric side of things, you’re in luck, as there are several dino-themed activities taking place this term. Meet a lifelike Tyrannosaurus rex (and take a selfie during the meet & greet) during an immersive Teach Rex show, or meet their modern relatives (think spiders, lizards and snakes) at a special Jurassic Encounters Animal Show.