Things to Do in Easter Weekend (Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday)

The Easter weekend in 2025, from 18 April to 21 April, is a fantastic time to experience London during this four-day spring break, one of the most cherished UK bank holidays of the year. Spanning Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday, this holiday offers a variety of events and activities for families, friends, couples, and solo travellers. From traditional egg hunts in historic gardens to cultural performances in iconic venues, outdoor adventures in blooming parks, and indulgent treats at renowned chocolatiers, London has something for everyone. To explore the full calendar of UK bank holidays in 2025, including other long weekends perfect for city breaks, check out our detailed guide, “UK Bank Holidays 2025,” where you’ll find all the dates and ideas for planning your next getaway.

When Is Easter 2025?

Easter Sunday is set as the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox (20 March). In 2025, the dates are:

• Good Friday: 18 April (a UK public holiday)
• Easter Sunday: 20 April
• Easter Monday: 21 April (a public holiday in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland) These dates provide a perfect long weekend to enjoy London’s springtime charm, with blooming flowers and festive events across the city.

Why Spend the Easter Weekend in London?

Spring in London is a magical season, with parks like Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Kensington Gardens bursting into bloom with daffodils, tulips, and cherry blossoms. Average temperatures range between 9°C and 15°C (48°F to 59°F), offering mild weather for outdoor exploration, though occasional April showers are possible. The Easter weekend is an ideal time for a city break, as the capital hosts a mix of traditional and contemporary events, from church services to family-friendly festivals, ensuring a delightful experience for locals and visitors alike.

Top Easter Egg Hunts Across London

Easter egg hunts are a beloved tradition, and London offers some of the best experiences for families:

• Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt at Hampton Court Palace (29 March to 21 April): Explore the palace’s royal gardens to find iconic golden bunny statues and win Lindt chocolate treats. The historic setting, with its manicured lawns and blooming tulips, adds a magical touch.
• Zoonormous Egg Hunt at London Zoo: Spot colourful eggs hidden among enclosures housing lions, giraffes, and monkeys, with educational talks about springtime wildlife.
• Ham House Easter Trail, Richmond (5 to 21 April): Enjoy interactive stations, craft workshops, and garden walks in this 17th-century estate, perfect for a historical family outing.
• The Big Hunt (24 March to 27 April): Follow a trail of 100 artist-designed egg sculptures across iconic spots like Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden, supporting charitable causes.

Family Activities During Easter Bank Holiday 2025

London’s top attractions are brimming with family fun over the Easter bank holiday 2025:

• Tower of London: Experience medieval-themed events with costumed actors, storytelling, and kid-friendly tours exploring the fortress’s history, from the Crown Jewels to royal tales.
• Madame Tussauds and London Dungeon: Perfect for older children, with wax figures of celebrities at Madame Tussauds and thrilling historical shows at the London Dungeon.
• London Pass: Access over 95 attractions, including the above, for a stress-free holiday with plenty of options to keep the whole family entertained.

Outdoor Adventures for Families

Get outside and enjoy London’s springtime beauty with these family-friendly activities:

• Kew Gardens: Wander through vibrant floral displays of tulips and daffodils, with storytelling sessions and nature workshops for kids to learn about plants and wildlife.
• Go Ape at Battersea Park: Take on the Treetop Challenge, a high-ropes course with zip wires and obstacle courses, set against the park’s scenic surroundings.
• London Wetland Centre (5 April to 1 June): Explore an AR adventure trail, the Lloyd of the Flies Wetland Bug Hunt, where families can discover digital and real-life insects, followed by birdwatching in the wetlands.

South Bank: A Hub of Easter Excitement

The South Bank is a lively spot for Easter activities:

• SEA LIFE Aquarium: Join a green sea turtle event with hands-on exhibits and talks about marine conservation, perfect for budding environmentalists.
• Shrek’s Adventure: Enjoy special activity zones, character meet-and-greets, and immersive storytelling in a limited-time activity palace.
• London Eye: Take in stunning views of the city skyline, with springtime blooms adding colour to landmarks like Big Ben and the Shard.

Good Friday in London: Events and Reflection

Good Friday offers a mix of reflective and cultural events:

• The Passion of Jesus at Trafalgar Square (18 April): A free performance with 100 performers reenacting the Easter story, drawing crowds to this iconic location.
• Handel’s Messiah at Royal Albert Hall: Experience this classical masterpiece performed by a full orchestra and choir, a moving way to mark the day.
• Church Services: Attend a Good Friday service at St Martin-in-the-Fields or Southwark Cathedral, with organ music and readings for a serene experience.

Easter Sunday: Celebrate the Heart of the Holiday

Easter Sunday is a day of celebration in London:

• Church Services: Join Easter mass at Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral, or St Martin-in-the-Fields, with beautiful choral music and festive sermons.
• Spring Fair at Horniman Museum (19 April): Enjoy live music, food stalls with seasonal treats like hot cross buns, and family activities such as seed planting and animal walks.
• Sunday Roast & Brunch: Savour a roast at The Harwood Arms in Fulham, or opt for a riverside brunch at The Crabtree in Hammersmith, with views of the Thames.

Easter Monday Highlights

Easter Monday is perfect for leisurely outings:

• London Easter 10k in Regent’s Park (21 April): Join the family fun run, dress up in bunny costumes, and chase chocolate-themed prizes in a scenic park setting.
• Explore Covent Garden or Carnaby Street: Enjoy street performers, boutique shopping, and a festive atmosphere, with plenty of cafés to relax in.
• Visit a Spa: Unwind at a luxury hotel like The Corinthia, with a massage or sauna session to recharge after the long weekend.

Cultural & Pop Culture Experiences

Add a cultural twist to your Easter weekend:

• Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter: Discover Hogwarts with Easter-themed displays, including chocolate frog stations and springtime decorations.
• The FRIENDS Experience at ExCeL (2 to 21 April): Explore iconic sets like Central Perk, with Easter-themed props such as Ross’s bunny costume, and enjoy interactive photo ops.

Chocolate, Cakes & Afternoon Teas

Indulge in Easter treats across the city:

• Fortnum & Mason: Find premier Easter hampers, chocolate eggs, and luxury gifts, perfect for treating loved ones.
• Dark Sugars & Melange: Discover handcrafted truffles and eggs with unique flavours like sea salt caramel and raspberry ganache.
• Claridge’s Easter Egg: A monochrome masterpiece crafted from Valrhona chocolate, filled with miniature caramel eggs and wrapped in striking foil.

More Sweet Treats

For more sweet delights:

• Battersea Power Station’s Chocolate Station (24 March to 28 April): Enjoy eggs, truffles, and street food stalls like Made of Dough and Duck Shed.
• Cutter & Squidge and Lily Vanilli: Savor Easter-inspired cupcakes and pastries with playful designs like bunny ears and pastel icing.
• Charbonnel et Walker Afternoon Tea at May Fair Kitchen: Delight in pink champagne truffles and delicate pastries for a luxurious treat.

Easter Day Trips from London

Take a break from the city with these day trips:

• Windsor Castle: Explore the royal residence, just 30 minutes by train, with its State Apartments and St George’s Chapel.
• Stonehenge & Bath: Uncover the ancient mystery of Stonehenge, then explore Bath’s Georgian architecture and Roman Baths.
• Warwick Castle: Experience medieval England with birds of prey displays, dungeon tours, and sword-handling lessons for kids.

Outdoor Activities in London

Enjoy the spring weather with these outdoor ideas:

• City Farms: Visit Mudchute Park and Farm to see spring arrivals like lambs and chicks, a heartwarming experience for families.
• Nature Reserves: Stroll through Hampstead Heath for a peaceful escape, with rolling hills and panoramic views of the city.
• Adventure Parks: Try Gripped London’s aerial courses or climb Up at The O2 for stunning skyline views at sunset.

The Easter bank holiday 2025 in London is packed with unforgettable experiences—from egg hunts and cultural performances to riverside brunches and royal day trips. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering the capital, the city offers the perfect mix of tradition, excitement, and springtime charm. For more ideas on planning your year, check out our blog article, “UK Bank Holidays 2025,” where you can explore all the public holidays, including other long weekends like May bank holidays and Christmas, to make the most of your time off in the UK.

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