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Parks and activities for kids in London

Last reviewed October 30, 2026

School is only part of a child's week. When you're choosing a family home, it helps to think about where your kids will play, swim, skate and spend Saturday mornings. Here's an overview of what London offers families, and how to factor it into your home search.

Parks and the outdoors

• Springbank Park in the west end: London's largest park, with paths along the Thames and Storybook Gardens, a seasonal children's attraction that offers skating in winter.
• The Thames Valley Parkway: a long multi-use path along the river branches, great for family bike rides.
• Neighbourhood parks and splash pads across the city. Newer subdivisions usually include parks, and established areas have mature ones.
• Fanshawe Conservation Area and Westminster Ponds for trails and nature.
• Victoria Park downtown, with festivals in summer and outdoor skating in winter.

Recreation programs

The City of London runs community centres, pools, arenas and a wide range of programs: swimming lessons, skating, day camps, sports and arts. Registration opens on set dates, and popular programs fill quickly. Families new to London should get on the City's recreation mailing list early.

Libraries

The London Public Library has branches throughout the city, with free programs for babies, toddlers, children and teens: story times, homework help, coding clubs and summer reading programs. A branch within walking distance is a real perk for families.

Sports

London has active youth leagues in hockey, soccer, baseball, basketball, swimming and more. Hockey is especially popular, and the London Knights (OHL) are a big part of the city's sports culture. If your child plays competitive sports, think about drive times to the arenas and fields you'll visit several times a week.

Museums and attractions

• The London Children's Museum
• Fanshawe Pioneer Village
• Museum London, at the Forks of the Thames
• Western Fair District events, including the late-summer Western Fair

Day trips

Lake Huron beaches at Grand Bend and Pinery Provincial Park, Lake Erie at Port Stanley, and pick-your-own farms around London make easy family day trips.

What to look for near a home

• A playground or park within a few minutes' walk
• Safe walking and cycling routes to school
• A community centre, pool or arena nearby
• A library branch
• Quiet streets where kids can ride bikes

Newer vs established areas for kids

Newer subdivisions often have brand-new parks and lots of young families, so it's easy to find playmates. Established neighbourhoods often have mature parks, closer libraries and community centres, and more walkable routes. Visit both types on a weekend to see which feels right.

More about life in London

Winter fun

London winters bring plenty of snow, and with it tobogganing hills in city parks, outdoor rinks (some maintained by neighbourhood associations), and indoor skating at City arenas. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are possible on some trails. For many kids, a home near a good sledding hill is a real perk.

Neighbourhood associations

Many London neighbourhoods have active associations that run family events, maintain outdoor rinks and organize community clean-ups. They're a great way to meet other families when you move. Ask your agent, or search for the association for areas on your shortlist.