Family days out this autumn and winter

Weekends of 10 to 11 and 17 to 18 October, then daily from 23 to 31 October. Every paying child picks a free pumpkin.

The spooky seasonal takeover runs right through half term. Book ahead for holiday dates.

The zoo’s Halloween programme usually runs through October half term, with pumpkin patches, spooky talks and crafts. Check this year’s dates before you book.

One of Hertfordshire’s hidden gems. Victorian galleries packed floor to ceiling with animals, and free to visit.

A new family day with an earlier 6pm display, smaller crowds and marshmallow toasting. Under-10s go free with Early Bird tickets. Saturday is the later, livelier night.

Fireworks with the cathedral as a backdrop, plus food and family fun. Opens from 6pm.

One of Hertfordshire’s biggest free displays. The 2026 date hasn’t been announced yet.

London’s prettiest ice rink, until 10 January. Children from £11, with a Kids’ Club for ages 6 to 10 and quieter Relaxed sessions.

The famous after-dark light trail, until 3 January. Children from £20, under 4s free. December dates sell out first.

The sets dressed for a snowy Christmas, until 17 January. One of the first festive days out to sell out.

A much-loved London family panto, running until 3 January.

A free light trail around the town, until 6 January. Perfect for an after-school wander.

Rides, ice skating and Santa Land, until 3 January. Pre-book a time slot and go on a weekday if you can.

The magical stage version of Raymond Briggs’ classic, until 3 January. A lovely first theatre trip. There’s a relaxed performance on 2 December at 2.30pm.

The city’s big free Christmas street party, from noon to 6pm, with around 100 market stalls, music stages and children’s crafts.

Usually runs from late November to Christmas Eve: a walk through a winter wonderland to Santa, who gives every child a key to his toyshop. Check this year’s dates and book early.

Watford’s panto tradition with a Dickens twist, until 3 January.

The West End’s big panto, until 10 January, with Julian Clary, and Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders reuniting as the Ugly Sisters.

Hertford’s family panto, until 3 January, packed with slapstick, songs and plenty of audience shouting. Tickets from £26.

Flat, buggy-friendly paths, lakes and plenty of wildlife. At its best in autumn with a flask and a bag for conkers.

A lake, ducks, a good playground and the remains of Roman walls to explore.

Both free to enter. Book a free timed slot in the holidays and arrive when they open.

A local favourite for soft play, when little legs need to burn off energy. Find it in the Cherubs directory.

Hands-on galleries that keep all ages busy for hours. Free entry, with some paid extras.

Most local libraries run free, friendly singing sessions for under-fives. A great way to meet other parents. Check your library for times.

A festive, baby-friendly gospel concert in one of London’s grandest venues.

Christmas show tunes for babies and toddlers, with room to wriggle and dance.

The furious fictional news reporter brings his new show to St Albans.

Stand-up from the comedian behind Lee Nelson, with a handy matinee show.

An evening with one of Britain’s best-loved comedy characters.

Evening skating with DJs, and a spritz rink-side. Book early, as these sell first.

A festive night of soul and R&B, hosted by Trevor Nelson.