Amazing Things to Do with Kids in Hackney

Posted on 21/10/2025

Looking for exciting activities and outings to enjoy with your children in East London? Look no further! Hackney is bursting with vibrant culture, sprawling green spaces, creative hubs, and enticing play zones, making it a fantastic family-friendly borough for parents and children alike. Discover an assortment of inspiring and accessible adventures to plan unforgettable days out with kids in Hackney. From outdoor pursuits and animals to educational hotspots and arty experiences, there is something for every age and interest!

Top Outdoor Spaces & Parks for Families in Hackney

Hackney's lush parks are a perfect retreat for families yearning for fresh air, space to roam, and a chance to play. Here are some of the most loved green spaces that offer much more than just picnicking:

1. London Fields

Vast Open Spaces: London Fields is ideal for kite-flying, impromptu football games, or even relaxing under mature trees.
Children's Playground: Features safe and imaginative play equipment suitable for toddlers to older children.
Heated Lido: The London Fields Lido is a 50-metre outdoor heated pool, open all year round and offering family swims.
Weekend markets: Pick up artisan treats, perfect for a picnic in the park.

2. Victoria Park

Adventure Playground: Slides, sandpits, swings and climbing frames to entertain children for hours.
Boating Lake: Enjoy pedalo rides or watch the swans glide by.
Children's Festivals: Seasonal events and fairs throughout the year make Victoria Park a hub of family activity.

3. Hackney Marshes & River Lea

Cycling & Scooting: Flat paths and scenic trails perfect for families.
Wildlife Spotting: Bring binoculars to search for herons, swans, and ducks along the river.
Enjoy the calm and tranquility, a world away from city bustle.

4. Clissold Park

Animal Enclosure: Meet goats, deer, and birds -- perfect for little animal lovers.
Butterfly House (seasonal): See exotic butterflies flitting by.
Fun Playground: Climbing structures, slides, water play and more.

London

Hackney's Best Indoor Activities for Children

If the weather isn't playing ball, Hackney still boasts a plethora of indoor adventures for children of all ages. These venues blend fun with learning and creativity, making them must-visit spots for an engaging family day out:

5. Hackney City Farm

Animal Encounters: Feed and meet donkeys, sheep, goats, and chickens.
Workshops: Animal care, gardening, and cooking experiences for kiddos.
Farm Cafe: Enjoy homemade cakes and rustic lunches, with plenty of choices for little eaters.

6. Discover Children's Story Centre

Imaginative Play Spaces: Indoor story trails, reading dens, creative installations, and interactive exhibitions.
Storytelling Sessions: Meet authors, listen to magical tales, and unleash creativity with writing and drawing classes.

7. Hackney Museum

Interactive Exhibits: Learn Hackney's history through treasure hunts and dressing-up corners.
Family Workshops: Themed craft sessions and activities for children, especially during school holidays.

8. The Castle Climbing Centre

Indoor Climbing: Courses and sessions for all ages, from complete beginners to young pros.
Family Classes: Perfect for an active and memorable bonding experience.

Creative & Educational Things to Do with Children in Hackney

Hackney is a hotbed for creative expression and learning. Whether your kids love art, science, or drama, these venues will spark curiosity and encourage imagination:

9. Arcola Theatre & Arcola Young Creatives

Youth Drama Workshops: Courses for all ages, with performances for family and friends.
Family Shows: Accessible theatre productions designed to captivate younger audiences.

10. Create Space London

Art Classes for Kids: Painting, sculpture, and craft sessions that let imaginations soar.
Special Holiday Clubs: Drop-ins and weekly clubs that explore different artistic mediums.

11. Hackney School of Food

Cooking Classes for All Ages: Fun, hands-on classes using fresh, local ingredients.
Family Workshops: A chance to cook - and eat - together in a colorful garden setting.

12. Shoreditch Adventure Playground

Adventure Play: Wooden structures, slides, swings, and creative free play supervised by trained playworkers.
Inclusive Activities: Designed for children of all abilities.

13. The Geffrye Museum (Museum of the Home)

Interactive Family Trails: Explore how families lived and played in the past.
Workshops and Events: Regular craft sessions and storytelling aimed at kids.

Unique Things to Do in Hackney with Kids

Looking for something different? Get off the beaten path with these unique Hackney attractions and hidden gems:

14. Hackney Downs Studios

Artisan Markets: Shop for handmade toys, crafts, and treats at creative markets.
Family-friendly Cafes: Trendy options with children's menus and play corners.
Workshops: Print-making, pottery, and more, many welcoming young participants.

15. Broadway Market

Street Food: Tuck into global bites perfect for all palates.
Children's Books & Toy Shops: Browse independent stores full of treasures.
Riverside Walk: Stroll along Regent's Canal, spotting narrowboats and wildlife.

16. Dalston Eastern Curve Garden

Natural Play: Explore gardens, build stick dens, and enjoy outdoor art installations.
Child-friendly Events: Seasonally themed workshops, pizza oven sessions, and storytime in a beautiful green oasis.

Best Places to Eat with Kids in Hackney

Family days out are truly special when rounded off with good food in a welcoming atmosphere. Hackney delivers with plenty of child-friendly cafes, bakeries, and restaurants:

Franze & Evans: Warm, sociable with a great brunch menu, plus healthy kid's options.
Fallen Angel Bakery: Indulge in whimsical cakes, rainbow bagels, and a cute play area for little ones.
Mother Works: Delicious plant-based food with a relaxed vibe and highchairs for babies.
Rosa's Thai Cafe: Flavour-packed Thai dishes with little portions and coloring sheets to keep children happy.

Seasonal and Special Events for Families in Hackney

Hackney's community calendar is packed with festivals, fairs, and events for all ages. Don't miss these recurring highlights for families:

Hackney Carnival (September): Parades, costumes, music, and street food - a dazzling extravaganza for all ages.
Hackney Playbus: A traveling play space that appears at parks and events across the borough.
Winterville at Victoria Park: Festive fun with ice skating, market stalls, and fairground rides.
Farmers' Markets: Child-friendly food tastings, face painting, and animal encounters at weekly markets in various parks.

Tips for Enjoying Family Days Out in Hackney

Check Opening Times: Some attractions have seasonal hours or require advance booking.
Plan for Changing Weather: Many options, both indoor and outdoor, ensure you can have fun rain or shine.
Combine Activities: Parks close to museums, galleries, or cafes mean you can easily mix and match adventures in one trip.

FAQs - Things to Do with Kids in Hackney

Are Hackney parks suitable for all ages?
Yes! Parks like Clissold and Victoria boast playgrounds for big and small kids, plus open space for sports and picnics.
Are there free activities for families in Hackney?
Absolutely. Parks, markets, museums (like Hackney Museum), and many seasonal events are free.
Is Hackney accessible with a buggy?
Most main parks and attractions are buggy-friendly, though some older buildings may have steps.
What's the best way to get around Hackney with kids?
Cycling, walking, Overground trains, and plenty of bus routes make Hackney well-connected and easy to explore as a family.

Plan Your Next Family Adventure in Hackney

With so many incredible attractions, green spaces, markets, and hidden gems, Hackney is an unbeatable borough for family fun! Pack a picnic, grab your little explorers, and set out to try these amazing things to do with your kids in Hackney. Whether you crave cultural excursions, artistic inspiration, nature-filled escapades, or tasty treats, Hackney's endless possibilities will make your family days out extraordinary every time.

Have you explored other family activities in Hackney that we've missed? Don't hesitate to share your tips and stories in the comments below or on our social channels. Happy exploring!