When there are restless kids to entertain over the school holidays, or family and friends are coming to stay– just how are you going to keep everyone amused?
One simple idea is a boat trip along the Thames.
Here’s a few school hols entertainment tips for you:
Along the river there is something for all ages and tastes – history, nature walks, bike rides, eating, drinking, markets and retail therapy.
From tots to teens, aunties to grandparents, being along the river gets everybody in a good mood. It both relaxes and entertains.
And the day is made even more memorable when you add in a boat trip.
Here are a few ideas for you to consider:
Head to Hampton Court Palace
Hampton Court Palace has plenty to entertain the kids with its Maze Garden, and all the ghoulish bits of history kids tend to love!
2019 sees a Dragon theme with Hunt he Dragons! Explore the palace gardens to uncover the colourful dragons lurking among the trees and plants.
Turks run regular boat trips to Hampton Court Palace from Kingston & Richmond. As well as its rich repertoire of activities for kids, it has the splendid gardens where you can enjoy a picnic overlooking the lake.
Pack a picnic
To access the palace gardens you do have to purchase a palace ticket but Hampton Court riverside has plenty of areas where you can picnic for free.
Richmond and Kingston riversides both have spacious green areas where you can picnic, relax and the kids love to be entertained by the passing boats.
Terrace Gardens in Richmond has the wonderful Hollyhock cafe and the lovely grass area where kids can safely run around.
Canbury Gardens along Kingston riverside you have the Boaters Inn pub if needed! And plenty of lawned area to picnic and play ball games.
Bring the bike
The Thames towpaths between Richmond, Kingston and Hampton Court are great fun to explore and safe for children.
If you’re worried about the kids getting tired, then we carry bikes and scooters on board our boats so if they get worn out – you can cruise back!
Here are a few ideas for you to consider:
Thumbs up it’s Thursday
Check out Kingston First Thumbs Up Its Thursday where there are free activities for kids. Kids can travel for free on specified Kingston to Hampton Court round trips, on Thursday’s during the holidays.
Lazy lunches
You are spoilt for choice along this stretch of the river. Richmond and Kingston both boast cosmopolitan riversides with a rich mix of café bars and restaurants.
At Hampton Court just a 5 minute walk across the bridge to East Molesley there are many eateries where you can sit outside. Check out Where to eat along the Thames
All Turks piers are just a minute or two walk from the popular restaurants and bars.
Shopping!
In Richmond, explore the Lanes to find an eclectic mix of independent retailers. Or Kingston has an outstanding choice of High Street gems – on par with Westfield- as well as a fab food market.
East Molesley across Hampton Court bridge has some delightful independent shops to browse.
Take a seat on deck, sip a cold drink, enjoy the views – gorgeous! And perfect for tired legs when the kids are running the grandparents ragged!
There are toilets and a bar on board each boat, plus a helpful crew is always on hand to assist with pushchairs or people less able. Bikes and dogs (on a lead) are welcome too!
Tickets purchased on board
Here are a few ideas for you to consider:
Watch video of Richmond to Kingston boat trip.
Could there be a better day out? Look forward to seeing you on board soon!
Check out River trip timetable
