Exciting Things to Do in Haringey for Families with Kids of All Ages

Posted on 05/11/2025

Looking for a day out with your family in North London? Haringey boasts an amazing array of attractions, green spaces, and activities suitable for children of all ages. Whether your kids are adventurous toddlers or hard-to-please teens, this culturally vibrant London borough offers something special for everyone. In this article, we'll explore exciting things to do in Haringey for families and provide you with a comprehensive guide to plan your visit, ensuring fun, learning, and memorable family moments.

Why Choose Haringey for Your Next Family Adventure?

Easy access via public transport, with multiple Underground and Overground stations.
Diverse attractions spanning nature, history, culture, food, and entertainment.
Family-friendly facilities including playgrounds, museums, and dining options.
Colorful events calendar featuring festivals, workshops, and markets throughout the year.

Let's dive into the best family attractions in Haringey and discover why this area is perfect for your next family outing.

London

1. Explore the Magic of Alexandra Palace and Park

Alexandra Palace, affectionately known as "Ally Pally," is easily Haringey's most iconic family destination. Set atop a hill with panoramic views of London, Ally Pally and its vast parkland offer a wealth of experiences for families with kids of all ages.

Year-round Family Highlights at Alexandra Palace

Ice Skating Rink: Whether you're a beginner or budding figure skater, the ice rink is open all year and offers lessons for children.
Boating Lake: Enjoy pedalos and rowing boats during summer months--perfect for younger children and teens alike.
Adventure Playground: Let your kids burn off energy in the large adventure play area designed for different age ranges.
The Grove: This wooded section is ideal for a nature walk, spot local wildlife, and unwind amongst the trees.
Parkland Walk: A former railway line now a leafy nature trail, great for family strolls or cycling.

Don't forget to check out the frequent family-friendly events such as fireworks, funfairs, and street food festivals that add extra sparkle to your visit!

2. Discover Ancient Woodlands: Highgate Wood and Queen's Wood

If your family enjoys the great outdoors, head to Highgate Wood or Queen's Wood--two of London's ancient woodlands right in the heart of Haringey.

Top Things to Do With Kids in Haringey's Ancient Woods

Woodland Trails: Perfect for nature spotting, bug hunting, and picnics under the leafy canopy.
Playgrounds: Both woods have dedicated play areas where children can climb, swing, and slide.
Cafe and Facilities: Rejuvenate with snacks or lunch at the friendly cafes, offering plenty of kid-approved options.
Nature Workshops: Look out for special events that teach children about bees, birds, and woodland crafts.

These tranquil spaces make an excellent choice for a day out with the family in Haringey, allowing kids to connect with nature in a safe, vibrant environment.

3. Visit Bruce Castle Museum & Park

Enrich your family's day with a little history at Bruce Castle Museum. Housed in a stunning 16th-century manor, the museum brings local history to life with interactive exhibits that engage children and adults alike.

What Makes Bruce Castle a Top Family Attraction in Haringey?

Family Discovery Days: Fun, interactive workshops and craft sessions held regularly, often free of charge.
Dress-up zones: Young children can step into the past with themed costumes.
Historical Exhibits: Displays cover everything from the history of post to local inventors, with plenty of hands-on activities.
Museum Park: Enjoy the wide open parkland next to the castle, ideal for a picnic or playground break.

Tip: Admission to Bruce Castle Museum is free, making it an affordable and enriching stop for families looking for things to do in Haringey!

4. Family Fun at Finsbury Park

Finsbury Park, straddling the border of Haringey, is a popular green haven bustling with playgrounds and recreational activities. Well-maintained paths make it perfect for prams, scooters, and bikes.

Things to Do in Finsbury Park for Kids of All Ages

Inclusive Play Area: Extensive playground for toddlers right up to older children.
Skatepark: A favourite with adventurous older kids and teens.
Rowing Lake: Experience family boating or simply relax by the water.
Sports Pitches: Join local grassroots football matches or simply kick a ball about.
Parkrun and Junior Parkrun: Active families can participate in inclusive running events every weekend.

There are also several cafes and food stalls dotted around the park, offering healthy and kid-friendly treats to keep everyone refreshed.

5. Creative Play at Little Dinosaurs Play Centre

If you're seeking indoor activities for kids in Haringey, Little Dinosaurs Play Centre in Alexandra Palace is a must-visit. Specially designed for children under 9, this indoor centre is a lifesaver on rainy days or during school holidays.

Why Kids Love Little Dinosaurs

Soft play zones: Separate areas for toddlers and older children ensure age-appropriate fun.
Creative play: Dress-up, role play zones, and educational toys stimulate imagination and social skills.
Cafe for parents: Relax with a coffee while your little ones let off steam in a safe setting.
Birthday party packages available for memorable celebrations!

This play centre offers the perfect blend of fun and learning, making it an attractive indoor family option in Haringey.

6. Tottenham Marshes and Lee Valley Regional Park

For families that enjoy walking, cycling, or birdwatching, Tottenham Marshes and the adjacent Lee Valley Regional Park offer a breath of fresh air away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Ideas for a Family Day Out in Haringey's Wild Spaces

Walking and Cycling Trails: Take to the marshes and spot swans, ducks, butterflies, and sometimes even rabbits!
Pond Dipping: Educational fun for all ages--don't forget your wellies.
Nature-themed events: The Lee Valley team regularly organizes kid-friendly events, from bug hunts to story trails.
Picnic spots with stunning greenery and plenty of space to play ball games or fly kites.

Insider tip: Bring binoculars for the dedicated birding hides, and keep an eye on the Lee Valley's event schedule for extra family fun throughout the year!

7. Sporting Inspiration: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Tour

If your youngsters are football fans, the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Tour is an unforgettable experience. Go behind the scenes at this state-of-the-art stadium, the home of one of the Premier League's most famous clubs.

Stadium Tour Family Highlights

Interactive exhibits: Learn about the history of Spurs and Premier League football.
Stadium walk-through: Stand pitch-side and visit the players' changing rooms.
Photo opportunities: Sit in the dugout, pose with trophies, and even try your hand at the Virtual Goal!
Gift shop: The perfect place to pick up a souvenir for your young football enthusiast.

Book your stadium tour online to avoid disappointment, especially during school holidays when slots fill up quickly.

8. Library Adventures: Haringey's Welcoming Libraries

Inspire your children's love of reading and learning with a visit to Haringey's fantastic public libraries, including Hornsey Library and Wood Green Library. There's far more than books on offer!

Why Include a Library Visit on Your Haringey Family Itinerary?

Storytime sessions: Engaging readings for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.
Homework clubs and learning zones: Ideal for older children needing a quiet place to study or research.
Creative workshops: Arts, crafts, coding clubs, and themed activities during holidays.
Digital resources: Free access to ebooks, audiobooks, and online learning tools.

Top Tip: Register with your local library to take advantage of free events and borrowing privileges. Libraries are one of the most affordable family activities in Haringey!

9. Eating Out: Family-Friendly Cafes and Restaurants in Haringey

A great day out in Haringey isn't complete without sampling some local flavours. The borough is known for its diverse culinary scene, from Turkish and Cypriot bakeries to vegan and international street food.

Best Eateries for Kids in Haringey

Green Rooms Cafe (Wood Green): Relaxed, creative atmosphere and a kids' menu.
Carmelita's Bakery (West Green): Amazing cakes, pastries, and fresh bread for picky eaters.
Kiss the Hippo (Crouch End): Wholesome brunch, high-quality coffee, and child-friendly vibes.
Bun & Bar (Green Lanes): Gourmet burgers and relaxed music--kids eat half-price early evening Mondays!

Pro tip: Many restaurants and cafes in Haringey are pram-friendly and offer colouring books, toys, or kids' portions to keep little diners happy while you enjoy your meal.

10. Themed Events and Festivals for Families in Haringey

From summer carnivals and winter lights to multicultural food festivals, Haringey's events calendar ensures there's always something exciting for families to experience together.

Must-See Family Events in Haringey

Crouch End Festival: Music, art, and street performances for kids and grown-ups every June.
Tottenham Ploughman River Festival: Family workshops, wild crafts, and local food--great for all ages.
Ally Pally Fireworks: North London's biggest Bonfire Night celebration, with rides, markets, and family activities.
Wood Green Regeneration Festival: Hands-on arts, crafts, and games every summer with multicultural food stalls.
Christmas Markets in Muswell Hill: Festive shopping, carol singing, and Santa's Grotto for the little ones.

Keep an eye on Haringey Council's website or local community boards for up-to-date event listings.

Family Day Trip Tips: Making the Most of Your Visit to Haringey

Plan ahead: Some attractions are very popular during weekends or school holidays--pre-book when possible.
Pack for the weather: While Haringey offers great indoor activities, its parks and gardens are best enjoyed with weather-appropriate clothing and sun hats or wellies!
Travel sustainably: Use public transport where you can; many top attractions are close to bus or Tube stops.
Mix it up: Combine indoor and outdoor activities to keep kids interested and energized throughout the day.
Check for family discounts: Many attractions and cafes offer special deals or entry discounts for families.

Conclusion: Discover the Best Family Things to Do in Haringey

Haringey truly is a borough bursting with family fun. From the majestic grounds of Alexandra Palace to hands-on museum exhibits, magical woodlands, and community festivals, there's never a shortage of exciting things to do in Haringey for families with kids of all ages. Whether you're planning a day out, a weekend adventure, or looking for ideas to fill the school holidays, you'll find Haringey offers something to delight every member of the family.

Ready to explore? Start planning your visit to Haringey and create lasting memories with your loved ones--right here in one of North London's most vibrant and welcoming communities!