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Looking for the best summer camps in London for your child? Whether they are interested in sports, performing arts, coding, or outdoor adventures, London offers a variety of camps designed to educate, entertain, and inspire.
Summer camps provide children with a structured environment where they can make new friends, develop essential life skills, and explore their passions. With so many options available, finding the right camp can be overwhelming.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the top 12 best summer camps in London, along with everything you need to know about choosing the perfect camp for your child.
How to Prepare Your Child for Their First Summer Camp?
Easing Separation Anxiety
Talk to your child about what to expect at camp and highlight the fun activities they’ll enjoy. Introduce them to other campers if possible, and reassure them that missing home is normal but temporary.
Building Independence
Encourage your child to make simple decisions and involve them in packing their own bag. Teaching them to follow a daily routine will help them adjust to the camp schedule more easily.
What Are the Benefits of Summer Camps in London?
Enhancing Personal Growth and Social Skills
Summer camps help children develop confidence, independence, and teamwork skills. They encourage kids to step out of their comfort zones and engage in new experiences.
Promoting Physical and Mental Well-being
Many camps incorporate outdoor activities, sports, and mindfulness sessions, helping children stay active while also improving their emotional well-being.
Encouraging Creativity and Learning
Whether it’s through coding workshops, drama performances, or science experiments, summer camps allow children to explore new interests beyond the traditional classroom setting.
Why Is London a Great Place for Summer Camps?
A City with World-Class Educational and Recreational Facilities
London has some of the best educational institutions, theatres, sports centres, and museums that provide an excellent setting for summer camps.
Diverse Cultural Experiences
Being one of the most multicultural cities in the world, London offers a chance for children to interact with peers from different backgrounds, fostering inclusivity and global awareness.
Safe and Well-Regulated Camp Programmes
Most summer camps in London are licensed, well-staffed, and follow strict safety protocols, ensuring a secure environment for kids.
How to Choose the Right Summer Camp in London?
Consider Your Child’s Interests
Does your child love sports, science, or performing arts? Identifying their passion will help you select a camp where they will thrive.
Decide Between Residential and Day Camps
Residential camps offer overnight stays, providing a more immersive experience, while day camps allow children to return home each evening.
Check the Camp’s Reputation and Staff Qualifications
Look at reviews, safety policies, and staff credentials to ensure the camp is well-managed and provides a high-quality experience.
What Are the Different Types of Summer Camps in London?
Sports Camps
For children who love football, tennis, swimming, or multi-sport training, sports camps focus on building physical fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
STEM and Coding Camps
These camps offer hands-on learning in robotics, programming, science experiments, and problem-solving skills, perfect for young tech enthusiasts.
Performing Arts Camps
From acting and dance to music and filmmaking, performing arts camps help children express their creativity and build confidence on stage.
Outdoor Adventure Camps
Designed for kids who love hiking, camping, and nature exploration, these camps teach survival skills and environmental awareness.
Academic and Language Camps
For children who enjoy learning, academic camps focus on maths, writing, leadership, and foreign languages, preparing them for future success.
Which Are the Top 12 Best Summer Camps in London?
London offers a diverse range of summer camps that cater to children with different interests, including sports, performing arts, STEM, and outdoor adventures.
These camps provide a well-structured environment where children can develop new skills, build friendships, and gain confidence. Whether your child enjoys football, drama, robotics, or exploring nature, there is a summer camp tailored to their needs.
Below is a list of the top 12 summer camps in London, with detailed descriptions to help you choose the best one.
1. Camp Horizons
Camp Horizons is a multi-activity summer camp designed for children aged 6-14. It offers a variety of activities, including sports, drama, arts and crafts, dance, and team-building games. The camp focuses on helping children develop confidence, creativity, and social skills in a fun and engaging environment. Located at Chobham Academy in East Village, London, the camp provides excellent indoor and outdoor facilities. Their experienced instructors ensure a safe and supportive setting for all children, making it an excellent choice for parents looking for a well-rounded summer camp experience.
Website: camphorizons.co.uk
Email: enquiries@camphorizons.co.uk
Phone: 07394130678
Address: Chobham Academy, 40 Cheering Ln, East Village, London E20 1BD
2. Young Explorers Kids Camp
Young Explorers Kids Camp is perfect for children who love adventure and outdoor exploration. The camp provides a mix of nature activities, team challenges, and science-based discovery games.
Children learn survival skills, environmental awareness, and teamwork, making it a great option for parents who want their kids to spend time outside while learning valuable life skills.
Located in Alexandra Gate, the camp offers spacious outdoor areas and engaging activities that keep children active throughout the summer.
Website: youngexplorerskids.com
Email: youngexplorerskidscamp@gmail.com
Phone: +44 (0) 7483814060
Address: Alexandra Gate, Exhibition Rd, London W2 2UH
3. Kids EDEN Camp
Kids EDEN Camp focuses on creative arts, drama, and team-building activities, making it an excellent choice for children who love performing and artistic expression.
The camp provides a range of music, dance, and acting workshops, encouraging kids to develop their confidence and storytelling abilities. With experienced instructors guiding them, children can enhance their communication skills while having fun.
Located in Battersea Rise, the camp is ideal for those who want a stimulating and interactive experience that nurtures their creativity.
Website: kidsedencamp.com
Email: info@kidsedencamp.com
Phone: 079 3246 6300
Address: Fresh Ground, 68 Battersea Rise, London SW11 1EQ
4. The French Camp
The French Camp is a language immersion summer programme for children interested in learning French through interactive activities.
This camp blends language lessons with outdoor adventures, cultural games, and storytelling, ensuring a dynamic learning environment. The goal is to help children develop fluency and confidence in speaking French while having fun.
Set in Battersea Park, London, the camp provides a stimulating atmosphere where children can improve their language skills naturally.
Website: thefrenchcamp.co.uk
Email: thefrenchcamplondon@gmail.com
Phone: 07809 759907
Address: Battersea Park, London SW11 4NJ
5. On the Ball Holiday Camp
On the Ball Holiday Camp is designed for children who love sports and physical activities. The camp provides football training, multi-sports coaching, and fitness exercises, ensuring kids stay active and engaged.
Children learn teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship while developing their athletic abilities. The camp welcomes beginners and advanced players alike, making it an ideal choice for aspiring young athletes.
Website: ontheballsports.net
Email: info@ontheballsports.net
Phone: 07786274477
Address: Newington Green Primary School, Matthias Rd, London N16 8NP
6. Camp Fantastic
Camp Fantastic offers a mix of music, theatre, arts, and storytelling workshops. Designed for children with a passion for creativity, the camp encourages kids to develop their artistic skills through interactive performances and hands-on projects. Located in Lime Grove, the camp provides a vibrant space where young performers can express themselves freely and build confidence in their abilities.
Website: campfantastic.co.uk
Email: admin@campfantastic.co.uk
Phone: 07782 217453
Address: 6 Lime Grove, London W12 8EA
7. Kidwise After School Club
Kidwise After School Club offers a mix of STEM activities, creative play, and social skills development. Children engage in interactive learning experiences that help them develop problem-solving and analytical thinking skills.
Located in South Quay Plaza, London, this camp is an excellent option for kids who enjoy educational challenges combined with fun activities.
Website: kidwisecamp.co.uk
Email: info@kidwisecamp.co.uk
Phone: 0208 158 3986
Address: Unit 1, South Quay Plaza, 185 Marsh Wall, South Quay, London, E14 9SH
8. The Breezy Club
The Breezy Club specialises in performing arts, theatre, and dance, allowing children to explore their creativity through engaging workshops and live performances. This camp is perfect for kids who love acting and performing in front of an audience.
Website: thebreezyclub.co.uk
Email: theteam@thebreezyclub.co.uk
Phone: 07858 867188
Address: Alexandra Park Secondary School, Bidwell Gardens, London N11 2AZ
9. Global Camps
Global Camps focuses on outdoor adventure, sports, and leadership training, helping children build confidence through hands-on experiences in team-based challenges and outdoor sports.
Website: globalcamps.co.uk
Email: info@globalcamps.co.uk
Phone: +44 333 006 7413
Address: Primary School, Kelvin Grove, London SE26 6BB
10. Planet Youth
Planet Youth is a STEM-focused summer camp designed to introduce children to science, technology, engineering, and maths through hands-on experiments and creative learning.
The camp provides robotics workshops, coding sessions, and problem-solving challenges, helping children develop essential 21st-century skills.
With interactive projects and expert instructors, this camp fosters curiosity and innovation. Located in Sydney Road, London, it is an excellent choice for young learners interested in STEM subjects and scientific exploration.
Website: planetyouth.classforkids.io
Email: planetyouth@hotmail.com
Phone: 07869 213606
Address: Sydney Rd, London N10 2NL
11. Active Day Camps
Active Day Camps is a multi-sport summer programme offering children the chance to engage in a variety of physical activities, including football, gymnastics, athletics, and fitness training.
The camp’s goal is to encourage healthy habits, teamwork, and confidence-building through structured sports sessions.
Whether a child is new to sports or looking to enhance their athletic skills, this camp provides expert coaching and a fun, inclusive atmosphere. Located in Coleridge Gardens, London, it is ideal for kids who love staying active.
Website: activedaycamps.com
Email: enquiries@activedaycamps.com
Phone: 020 7846 0253
Address: 2-3 Coleridge Gardens, London NW6 3QH
12. Mad Science London
Mad Science London is a STEM-based camp designed to spark curiosity in children through engaging experiments, robotics projects, and hands-on scientific activities.
This camp provides a fun and interactive learning environment where children can explore topics such as chemistry, physics, and engineering.
With experienced instructors guiding them, kids develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Located in Denison Road, London, this camp is ideal for those who love science and innovation and want to learn through exciting experiments.
Website: nwlondon.madscience.org
Email: admin@madsciencenwlondon.co.uk
Phone: 07552 831104
Address: 15 Denison Rd, London W5 1NU
What Activities Do Summer Camps in London Offer?
Physical and Sports Activities
Football, basketball, swimming, and multi-sports programmes are designed to keep children active and engaged.
Creative Arts and Music
Children can explore painting, drama, filmmaking, and music composition, allowing their artistic side to flourish.
STEM and Technology Workshops
With the rise of coding, robotics, and AI, tech-focused camps help children develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Outdoor Exploration and Adventure
From hiking and camping to survival skills training, adventure camps provide thrilling and educational outdoor experiences.
When Should You Book a Summer Camp in London?
Early Booking for Discounts
It’s recommended to book a summer camp at least 3-4 months in advance to secure a spot and take advantage of early-bird discounts.
Many camps offer reduced rates for early registration, which can help you save on costs. Additionally, booking early gives you a wider selection of camps, locations, and dates to choose from, ensuring a better fit for your child’s interests.
Ensuring Availability
Popular summer camps in London fill up quickly, especially those with unique programs or limited spaces. By booking early, you increase the chances of securing a spot in your preferred camp. This is particularly important if your child wants to attend with friends or if you have specific scheduling needs.
Planning for Special Requirements
If your child has any special requirements, such as dietary needs, medical considerations, or specific activity preferences, booking early allows the camp to make necessary arrangements. This ensures a safe and comfortable experience for your child.
Flexibility with Last-Minute Enrolment
While early booking is recommended, some camps accept last-minute applications if spots are still available. This can be a good option for families with flexible schedules or for those making spontaneous plans.
However, availability is often limited, and you might have fewer options for activities or dates.
Waiting Lists and Cancellations
If you miss the early booking window and the camp is fully booked, consider joining a waiting list. Cancellations do occur, and camps may contact waitlisted families when spots open up. It’s worth checking with the camp about their waiting list policies and procedures.
What Should Your Child Pack for a Summer Camp in London?
Essential Items
Comfortable clothing, sports shoes, and a backpack with water, sunscreen, and snacks are a must.
Activity-Specific Equipment
Depending on the camp, children may need sports gear, musical instruments, or laptops for coding classes.
What Safety Measures Do Summer Camps in London Follow?
Qualified Staff and Child Supervision
All reputable camps have certified instructors, first aid responders, and background-checked personnel to ensure child safety.
Emergency Protocols
Camps have plans in place for medical emergencies, weather conditions, and security concerns.
Conclusion
London offers a diverse selection of summer camps designed to cater to different interests, age groups, and learning styles. Whether your child is passionate about sports, performing arts, STEM, or adventure activities, there is a camp that will make their summer both fun and educational.
Booking early ensures the best options, so explore these fantastic camps and give your child an unforgettable experience this summer!
FAQs About Summer Camp in London England
What is the ideal age for summer camps in London?
Most summer camps in London cater to children aged 4 to 17 years. Some camps are designed specifically for younger kids (4-7 years), while others focus on teenagers (12-17 years) with advanced skill development activities.
Do summer camps in London offer overnight stays?
Yes, some camps offer residential programmes, especially those focusing on adventure, leadership, or academic enrichment. However, many summer camps in London are day camps, where children return home in the evening.
Are summer camps in London safe for children?
Yes, most camps follow strict safety protocols, including background-checked staff, first aid facilities, and emergency response plans. Always check a camp’s credentials, reviews, and staff qualifications before enrolling.
Can children with special needs attend summer camps in London?
Many camps provide inclusive programmes catering to children with special needs, offering trained staff and tailored activities. It’s best to contact the camp directly to discuss specific requirements.
Are meals provided at summer camps?
Some camps include lunch and snacks, while others require children to bring packed meals. Always check with the camp about dietary options, especially if your child has allergies or specific food preferences.
How do I register my child for a summer camp in London?
Most camps allow online registration through their official websites. Some may require paperwork, health forms, or deposit payments before confirming a spot. Early registration is recommended due to limited availability.
What if my child doesn’t enjoy the camp?
Many camps offer trial days or flexible cancellation policies. If your child isn’t comfortable, you can discuss alternatives with the camp staff, switch to another activity, or explore refund options.
Are there free or affordable summer camps in London?
Yes, some charities, community centres, and local councils offer free or low-cost summer camps for children from low-income families. Look for government-supported programmes or school holiday clubs in your area.
Do summer camps offer transportation services?
Some camps provide pick-up and drop-off services, especially those located outside central London. Check with the camp about transport options and additional costs.
Can international students join summer camps in London?
Yes, many camps welcome international students and even offer English immersion programmes. However, parents should check visa requirements and accommodation options if travelling from abroad.