Half-term is the perfect time to slow down, get outside and rediscover what’s right on our doorstep. Whether you’re after nature, good food or a cosy café stop — here are five local ideas to keep everyone happy (and well-fed).
1️⃣ Beckenham Place Park — Nature Trails & Fresh Air
Beckenham Place Park is one of SE London’s gems — huge open space, ancient woodland, wildflower meadows and a lake.
- Try one of the self-guided nature trails (downloadable via the link above).
- Bring scooters, wellies or bikes — it’s great for exploring.
- Pack a picnic or pick up pastries, drinks and even homemade pizzas from the Homestead Cafe.
Perfect for a slow, no-plans morning that turns into a full day out.
2️⃣ Abbotshall Healthy Lifestyle Centre — Play, Move & Refuel
Right in Catford, Abbotshall Healthy Lifestyle Centre is a community hub offering everything from children’s sports to family yoga and fitness classes.
- Check their half-term timetable for kids’ sessions and open play hours.
- There’s also a lovely café on site with healthy snacks and coffee — ideal for parents to recharge while the kids burn off energy.
- Bring friends and make it a group outing.
3️⃣ Horniman Museum & Market — Culture Meets Community
The Horniman Museum & Gardens in Forest Hill is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Inside: their Robot Zoo exhibition, aquarium, and musical instrument gallery.
- Outside: gardens, animal walk, playground and panoramic city views.
- On Sundays, there’s the Horniman Market — local produce, hot food, and crafts.
Pick up something delicious for lunch, or just browse with a coffee in hand.
4️⃣ Crystal Palace Park — Dinosaurs, Playgrounds & Brown & Green Café
A short hop from Sydenham, Crystal Palace Park is packed with kid-friendly fun.
- Hunt for the Victorian dinosaurs dotted around the lake.
- Let the kids loose in the playground or the maze.
- Check out the goats, pigs and chickens at the small City Farm in the park
- Afterwards, head to Brown & Green Café (at the station or by the park) for brunch, pancakes, or excellent coffee.
It’s one of those all-day places where everyone leaves happy and muddy.
5️⃣ Good Food Adventure — Create Your Own Mini Food Tour
Half-term’s also a great time to get the kids curious about food and where it comes from.
Pop into your favourite local food shops or delis — and pick up something new to try each day.
At Good Food Stores we believe great food is about connection: knowing your growers, makers, and neighbours.
Try letting the kids choose one new ingredient or snack, then cook or taste it together at home.
✨ Local Half-Term Checklist
☑ Nature trail adventure
☑ Market morning treat
☑ Family café brunch
☑ Indoor museum day
☑ New food discovery