Keeping the kids entertained over the holidays can be a challenge – and costly – but there’s plenty happening in the Village this summer to help keep them active, engaged and off screens, including a number of fun FREE activities. Here are some of our top picks…
1. Butterfly & Dragonfly Walk
See and learn all about some of the Commons’ many butterflies and dragonflies on a FREE 2 hour walk led by two local expert volunteers.
Where & When: Meet at the Ranger’s Office ready for a 2pm start on Saturday August 1st. The walk will last around 2 hours.
Tickets/Booking: FREE but donations are gratefully accepted: Make a Donation. Booking is essential. Book on Eventbrite
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2. Workshop: Where Does Our Water Go?
This FREE hands-on, science and engineering model-making workshop, designed for 7-14 year olds, aims to show enquiring minds where our water goes after it has gone down the drain! After the workshop, why not try out the Museum’s ‘sensory trail’ which offers a unique, hands-on way to learn and connect with the museum’s collection using all your senses.
Where & When: Wimbledon Museum on Saturday 1st August. Workshop Session 1: 10.30 am to 12.30 pm. Workshop Session 2: 2 – 4 pm.
Tickets/Booking: FREE, but booking is essential: https://www.trybooking.com/uk/events/landing/117370 NB: Adults don’t need a ticket for the workshop but each child requires their own ticket. Children (maximum 3 per group) MUST be accompanied by an adult. Entry to the Wimbledon Museum is FREE. No booking required.
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3. Art Below Summer Show 2026
Artwork by Ursula Brandehof
Have older children or budding artists in the family? Visit the latest exhibition at local gallery Ad Lib, featuring works by artists currently showcased on billboard posters at Pimlico and Hyde Park Corner Tube stations as part of Art Below, alongside pieces by some of the gallery’s favourite artists. All pieces are for sale.
Where & When: Ad Lib Gallery, until 2nd August 2026. Monday – Sunday: 10am – 5:30pm
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4. Watch the Windmill in Action!
Watch the iconic Wimbledon Windmill in action when one of the Commons’ Rangers heads to the roof and releases the brake, allowing the sails to turn for 30-45 mins max, to make sure everything is still working and that nothing has seized up. While you’re there, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Wimbledon Windmill Museum. It has exhibits for both young and old, covering windmills and milling as well as local history and the Scouting movement.
Where & When: Wimbledon Windmill is on Windmill Road, SW19 5NR. Sails are turned every five weeks on both Saturday and Sunday @ 2pm. Next turning: 7/8th August 2026. The museum is open 2 – 5 pm on Saturdays and 11 am – 5 pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays.
Cost: FREE ENTRY to the Museum but donations are gratefully received.
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5. Wimbledon Village Stables Open Day
Explore the Stables yard, meet the horses, and see how everything runs behind the scenes. It’s a great opportunity to learn about membership options, and see the Equicise horse simulator, designed for all ages and abilities. Children will love meeting Mr Fudge, the friendly Shetland pony!
Where & When: Wimbledon Village Stables on the second Saturday of every month, from 2 – 3 pm. Next Open Day: Saturday 8th August
Booking: Free. No booking required – just turn up and enjoy a relaxed, informative afternoon.
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6. Classic Car Meet – Southside Hustle
Photo Credit: @paolojgibelli
A great one for car enthusiasts, Southside Hustle is an informal gathering of classic car owners that takes place once a month alongside Wimbledon Common. You’re sure to spot a stunning and eclectic array of cars, some incredibly rare, making it a perfect morning out with family and friends. Then why not head into the Village for a coffee or a spot of lunch?
Where & When: Southside (Village end, near the Farmer’s Market), from 8am to around 11am on the first Sunday of each month. The next meets are on August 2nd and 6th September.
Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/p/C7UXrPXiWF-/?hl=en&img_index=1
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7. Wimbledon Common Park Run
This free, fun and friendly weekly 5k community event is open to everyone. You can even bring your dog! It’s not a race, so you can just take it at your own pace, whether you want to walk, jog, run – or just spectate! At the end join other participants and enjoy a well-earned treat at the Windmill Café.
Where & When: Meet near the Wimbledon Windmill to register. Every Saturday at 9am come rain or shine!
Tickets/Booking: Free. Register @ https://www.parkrun.org.uk/wimbledon/
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8. Den-Building @ Wimbledon Common Nature Club
Let your child discover their inner Bear Grylls at this den-building activity at the Wimbledon Common Nature Club. The event is part of a regular programme of monthly, themed sessions all suitable for 6 – 14 year olds.
Where & When: Information Centre, Windmill Road, Wimbledon Common on Sunday 6th September from 10 am – 12 pm.
Tickets/Booking: FREE but donations to cover costs welcomed. Booking not required but please arrive early to register if it’s your first time at the Club.
More details: https://wimbledoncommonnatureclub.carrd.co
