Six fun filled February half term activities

Lambeth Road, London SE1 6HZ

History is being brought to life at London’s Imperial War Museum – just a stone’s throw from Elephant & Castle. This free family event – Story Seekers – is a must-do for any school-age children currently studying the Second World War or the Cold War era. It’s also the perfect opportunity to see the impressive permanent collections, which include a Harrier jet and Second World War Spitfire.

Admission to the IWM London is free. To plan your day, visit www.iwm.org.uk/events/story-seekers-iwm-london-february-half-term-2020

2 Dugard Way, London SE11 4TH

Located in Kennington, just a stone’s throw from Elephant & Castle, this special museum has been celebrating all things cinema for the past 20 years. If you have a young film fan to entertain, they will be mesmerised by extensive displays of artefacts, memorabilia and equipment and they can learn about the history of the silver screen from the 1890s to the present day.

Visit www.cinemamuseum.org.uk.

Albany Road, London SE5 0AL

There may still be a nip in the air, but a trip to Burgess Park is well worth wrapping up warm for. At 56 acres, it’s one of the largest parks in South London and there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained all morning or afternoon. There are separate play areas for children over and under five, a BMX track and – if they still have energy to burn – a 5km jogging route around the park, which is marked with butterfly symbols. You’ll certainly see snowdrops on your visit and you can keep the February chill at bay with a hot drink from the Park Life café.

13A Iliffe Yard, London SE17 3QA

This is one for the teenagers who want to keep their minds active over the holiday. Escape Plan, which will test their problem-solving and teamwork skills, is located just a short walk from Elephant & Castle’s Walworth Road. The theme is ‘The Battle for Britain’ and players are transported back to 1940 where they must solve a series of clues against the clock to save their country. Groups of up to seven are welcome and must include at least one adult.

For more information and to book, visit www.escapeplanltd.com

2 St Gabriel Walk, Elephant & Castle, London SE1 6FG

For affordable fun everyone can enjoy, head to The Castle Centre for a dip (or a splash) in the 25-metre pool. The fitness centre has recently had a facelift in a £20m redevelopment, so there couldn’t be a better time to pay it a visit. There’s lane swimming for serious water babies and inflatable sessions at the weekend that are sure to please the little ones. There’s a small pool for novice swimmers and an onsite crèche, if you need to leave the very little ones in safe hands while you’re poolside.

Did you know that all Southwark residents have access to free swim and gym sessions through Southwark Council? See details about the offer here.
For more information and to check swimming sessions in advance, visit www.everyoneactive.com/centre/the-castle-centre/

165 Tyers Street, London SE11 5HS

A farm in the centre of the capital? Yes, it’s true! In fact, this popular farm in Vauxhall is one of the oldest in London with more than 100 animals to see, including horses, donkeys, alpacas, goats, sheep, pigs, cows and more. Situated in Elephant & Castle’s neighbouring borough of Lambeth, it’s a 15-minute tube journey between Elephant & Castle and Vauxhall underground stations, but it’s a fantastic day out for the family! 

www.vauxhallcityfarm.org