Latest news with #LondonEye
What's On
17 hours ago
- Entertainment
- What's On
Check out these Guinness World Records achieved in Dubai
Tallest building, deepest pool, biggest picture frame…Dubai doesn't do anything by halves. From massive attractions to quirky records, here are some of the coolest Guinness World Records the city proudly holds. Click through the gallery 3 of 12 The world's longest cantilevered building structure 100m high, this dramatic skybridge stretches 230m between two towers, with 67.3m extending outward into the open air. The world's deepest indoor pool Clocking in at a jaw dropping 60m and holding a whopping 14 million liters of water, this epic underwater attraction isn't just a pool, it's a full on adventure. playground for divers. Think sunken city vibes, underwater arcade rooms, and record breaking depths The world's largest and tallest observation wheel Anchored on Bluewaters Island, this record breaking wheel towers 250m into the sky, nearly twice the height of the London Eye. The world's tallest hotel Soaring 356m across 75 stories and home to 528 rooms, find this gleaming golden tower along Sheikh Zayed Road. The world's largest picture frame Located in Zabeel Park, this iconic structure stands 150 metres tall and 95 metres wide, perfectly framing views of Old Dubai to the north and New Dubai to the south. Visitors can walk across the glass floored Sky Deck too. The world's tallest building Standing at a staggering 828 metres, the Burj Khalifa holds multiple world records, including the tallest freestanding structure, the highest number of stories, the highest outdoor observation deck (at the top on level 148), and even the world's highest restaurant and lounge ( on level 133) It's the ultimate bucket list icon towering over Dubai’s skyline. The world's longest flower display. A life sized Emirates A380 covered in over 500,000 flowers and plants. Other record holders include an 18 metre Mickey Mouse floral topiary, the tallest of its kind, and a 1 km long flower wall, creating a dreamy, petal packed stroll through the garden. The world's highest infinity pool. Perched atop Palm Tower, this luxe sky pool offers 360 panoramic views of Dubai, from the iconic Palm Jumeirah to the majestic Burj Khalifa and glistening Arabian Gulf. The largest indoor mall aquarium. Located inside Dubai Mall, this aquatic wonder holds 10 million liters of water and you can walk through a 48 meter tunnel or book experiences like cage snorkelling and shark dives. Want to dine above the clouds? Here's your guide to the 16 highest restaurants in Dubai. Don't miss a thing , follow What's On on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok for the latest news, events and everything in between… Images: Unsplash and Website > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Metro
12-06-2025
- Metro
'The strangest place in the world': Your top UK attractions for a quirky day out
From the London Eye to Hadrian's Wall, there are some pretty classic UK tourist attractions we all try to tick off at one point or another. But there's more to a day trip here than the same old museums or walks — the British Isles is also famed for its eccentricity (we're home to the Cheese Rolling Championships, after all). So if you're looking for something a little different, we asked you, our readers, plus some of the staff here at Metro, to share the best places in the UK for a quirky day out. First up, Metro's Rosy Shearman recommends Margate Caves, a subterranean adventure that's been a tourist attraction since Victorian times. At just £5 for adults and £2.50 for kids, the caves are an affordable — and educational — way to spend an afternoon. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. While you're in Margate, Metro's Katie Boyden raves about the mysterious Shell Grotto. Discovered in 1835, there's 70ft of passages completely covered with 4.6 million shells. The weirdest part? We have no idea who built it, or why it's there. For Metro reader Wendi Nichols, it's all about the Horniman Museum in London. It began as a huge collection of objects and specimens that Frederick John Horniman amassed on his travels to far flung destinations including Egypt, Sri Lanka, Burma, China, Japan, Canada. His hoard of artifacts grew so big that wife, Rebekah, insisted they move to an adjoining house. Since then, the collection has grown tenfold. There's taxidermy animals, and the largest display of musical instruments in the UK. Speaking of unusual museums, Metro's Kristina Beanland says you can't go wrong with the Pencil Museum, in Keswick in the Lake District. The town is the birthplace of the first ever pencil, and you can learn all about the graphite mines it was made from – as well as see the largest colour pencil in the world. For Lancashire born Metro writer, Jess Hamilton, Pendle Hill is worth a trip. It might be one to save for Halloween, as the area is famous for its links to 1612 witch trials. Across the Pennines, Metro's Phil Haigh spotlights The Forbidden Corner, which calls itself the 'strangest place in the world.' For £18, get lost in a 'labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies and surprises created within a four-acre garden in the heart of Tupgill Park' in the Yorkshire Dales. A little further south in Matlock, Derbyshire, Metro reader John Mcdougall reccomends The National Tramway Museum. Visitors can ride vintage trams through mock period streets, and further out into the countryside. Back in London, Paul also says he has a big respect for the Crystal Palace Park dinosaurs, which were first unveiled in 1854. Apparently, the park has a history of hosting Formula 1 races too. Metro's Claie Wilson says the Kelvedon Hatch, a secret nuclear bunker, is a perfect weekend activity. As the biggest and deepest Cold War bunker open to the public in the southeast of England, it was designed for up to 600 military and civilian personnel, and possibly even the Prime Minister. Oh, and it's also casually hidden beneath someone's Essex bungalow. Entry for adults is £14. For kids between five and 16, it's £12. Rounding off her list of UK recommendations, Rosy says Bekonscot Model Village is worth a visit. As the oldest original model village in the UK (established in 1929), the finely detailed buildings perfectly capture rural English life in the 1930s. Ticket prices cost £14 for adults and £9 for children. However, if you book online at least 48 hours in advance, you can enjoy a 10% discount. You've got your selfie outside Buckingham Palace. You've marvelled at St. Paul's Cathedral. You've stuffed your face with pasties at London's oldest food market. You look up to Big Ben to check the clock, only to realise you've still got loads of time to kill in the Big Smoke. Tourist traps aside, alternative London is where it's at. The city is brimming with fun – and affordable – things to do, from game nights with friends to white water rafting. Yes, really. So, if you're looking to make the most of your time in London, but don't want to break the bank, Metro has rounded up 15 of the best alt activities the city has to offer. If you don't fancy something quirky, but you're still hankering for a UK staycation, we've got two standout suggestions for you. Metro reader, Jacob Evans loves Whitby in Yorkshire for its impressive architecture, charming beach, Gothic Abbey ruins and its connection to the Dracula novel. The iconic chippy, The Magpie, always makes it onto 'UK best fish and chip restaurant' lists, too. As for Metro's Kristina Beanland, a trip to Jersey converted her into a British holiday lover. She's not the only one hooked on the Channel Island charm, though. 'If you were to head 11 miles north of Liverpool or 16 miles west of Wigan, you'd stumble across a rather unassuming village that's home to around 8,300 people' writes Metro's Courtney Pochin. While those who've visited say it's a 'peaceful' and 'wonderful' little spot in reviews online, it's fair to say there's not exactly a lot to keep you occupied in Aughton, Lancashire. Despite this, people from all over Europe and even as far out as the USA, keep on flocking to the village each year and there's one very good reason why – the food. Read Courtney's culinary guide here. After a hearty meal at The Magpie, there's a lot to squeeze into a day in Whitby. If you can manage it, trek up the 199 steps to the historic Whitby Abbey. Sitting majestically on the hill overlooking the coastal town, the 7th-century Christian monastery is quite the spectacle. Especially at sunset. It's also a favourite visitor attraction during Whitby Goth Weekend, a twice-yearly alternative music festival and market that celebrates the Gothic culture. This year, the first event took place between April 24-27. The next one is October 30 to November 2. Other events include Whitby Folk Week, where traditional music, dance, and song of the British Isles are celebrated in venues and pubs all across the town. Enjoy a variety of activities, from Ceilidhs, dances, workshops, storytelling, and talks, many of which carry on into the night. Just six miles from Whitby is Robin Hood's Bay, a picturesque old fishing village that receives less attention than its more famous neighbour. Spend the day ambling along the beach, or hiking the steep and winding paths, before settling in for a pub dinner at one of the village's many cosy inns. Jersey is a unique place. While it might be part of the British Isles, it's positioned significantly closer to France than to England. This has led to the island being described as having a split personality. Kristina wrote that during her trip, she found Jersey to be 'British with its classic pubs and fish and chips.' But, 'with road names like Route de la Liberation, a Norman food market, and beaches with long stretches of white sand, you can hardly believe you aren't on the continent.' More Trending For the beach babies, two of Jersey's beaches are standouts. The first is St. Brelade's Bay, which boasts wide swathes of golden sands, turquoise waters, and the original Jersey Crab Shack. Make sure you try the oysters here. Six natural oysters served on ice with homemade shallot vinegar is £12.50. A Jersey whole crab (which you can pick yourself) is marked at market price. The second beach is Portelet. But beware: it's not the easiest to get to. You have to climb down steep steps before emerging into the sun-trapped cove. According to Kristina, if you don't want to venture down to the sand itself, the Portelet Inn is an olde worlde pub with panoramic views over the bay. History lovers, the Jersey War Tunnels are a must-see. As the island's most visited museum, it provides visitors with a glimpse of what life was like during the Second World War, when Nazi Germany occupied the island. Finally, to experience Jersey from the sea, book a RIB boat tour around the coastline. For £45.99, Jersey Seafaris take you around the Ecrehous, a cluster of isolated islands eight miles off the coast of France. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: Beloved coastal cat who had run-ins with police honoured in new statue MORE: We travelled 14,000km on Race Across the World — this is the one place everyone should visit MORE: New bus ticket connects London to 'truly beautiful' seaside spot for under £5
GMA Network
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- GMA Network
Team Kramer visit popular London spots
Team Kramer is on holiday in London, and they made sure to visit some popular tourist spots. As seen in Doug and Chesca's collaborative Instagram post, their family also composed of Kendra, Scarlett, and Gavin, got to visit the Big Ben and the London Eye. They also visited the Notting Hill Bookshop. The family also shared snaps of their time in London cafes and exploring the city. 'When in London,' the couple said in the caption. Before this, more of Team Kramer spent quality time in the US, Bali, and Paris, among many others. Doug and Chesca have been married since 2008. They often share fun family updates and even life lessons on social media. —Nika Roque/JCB, GMA Integrated News
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
New European Casinos Online 2025: Rolletto Picked As the Best New Online Casino for Europeans
Limassol, Cyprus, May 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ready to take a spin on Europe's freshest reels or double down on innovation from the comfort of your home? If you've ever thought about hopping on a virtual flight across the continent of online casinos, then you're in for a first-class experience. JOIN THE NEWEST EU ONLINE CASINO: ROLLETTO The landscape of new EU online casinos is bustling with action, filled with modern tech, creative bonuses, and thrilling gameplay – all wrapped up in a package as sleek as a Swiss bank vault. New European casinos are setting trends faster than a French fashion show. Whether you're looking to bluff your way through a poker night or watch the roulette wheel spin like the London Eye, new EU online casinos bring continental flair to your fingertips. What Makes Rolletto the Best New European Online Casino Rolletto may be a new kid on the block, but it sails ahead with confidence and charisma. Established recently with a license from Curaçao, Rolletto is tailored for European players hungry for quality, convenience, and – most importantly – big fun. Here's why Rolletto is topping the leaderboard of new EU online casinos: User-Friendly Experience: From the clean navigation to its mobile-optimized design, Rolletto offers a sleek, seamless experience across all devices. Whether you're spinning slots during your morning espresso or cashing out after a late-night blackjack session, the site performs like a pro. Multi-Language Support: Europe is a melting pot, and Rolletto respects that. The platform is localized for multiple EU regions, offering English, German, Spanish, French, and Italian language options – a true ode to European unity. Licensed & Secure: While new, Rolletto operates under strict compliance and modern encryption technologies, ensuring a secure experience across all interactions. Rapid Growth & Recognition: Rolletto is already generating buzz across iGaming forums, social media, and EU gaming communities. Its rising reputation is a testament to its robust offering and reliability. PLAY AT ROLLETTO NOW Exciting Bonuses Available at Rolletto Let's face it: one of the biggest draws to new European casinos online is the bonuses. And Rolletto doesn't just meet expectations—it raises the stakes. Welcome Bonus That Packs a Punch First-time players are treated to a €5,500 welcome bonus that includes: First deposit: 150% bonus up to €500 Second deposit: 50% bonus up to €2,000 Third deposit: 25% bonus up to €3,000 50 free spins Low wagering requirements compared to industry averages Depending on your deposit and currency, you could be unlocking hundreds of euros worth of playable funds. Cashback Deals Rolletto knows the thrill of the game sometimes comes with losses. That's why they offer a 5% cashback promo of up to €500 that returns a portion of your net losses each week – turning tough streaks into comeback stories. Weekly Reloads & Free Spins Every week, players can snag reload bonuses, free spins on fan-favorite slots, and leaderboard competitions with serious prize pools. These aren't just gimmicks; they're consistent opportunities to stretch your bankroll. What Are the Most Popular Games at Rolletto Rolletto's game library is stacked like a Vegas buffet. With hundreds of titles from top software providers like NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, Evolution, and Play'n GO, Rolletto offers something for every type of gambler. Slot Machines Galore From the classic fruit machines to narrative-rich video slots, Rolletto's slot section is its beating heart. Popular games include: Book of Dead Gates of Olympus Sweet Bonanza Big Bass Bonanza Starburst With features like multipliers, free spins, Megaways, and jackpots, these slots offer nonstop entertainment and big win potential. Live Casino Action The Live Casino section is a highlight. Powered by Evolution and other leading studios, you'll find immersive live streams of: Roulette (including Lightning and Auto versions) Blackjack Baccarat Poker variants Game shows like Crazy Time and Monopoly Live Each table comes with professional dealers, multiple camera angles, and interactive features. Table Games Prefer a solo strategy session? Rolletto's classic table game collection includes: European and American Roulette Blackjack Pro Casino Hold'em Baccarat These games are available in both low and high-stakes formats. Sportsbook & Virtual Sports Beyond casino offerings, Rolletto also provides a robust sportsbook with betting markets across football, basketball, tennis, and esports. Virtual sports simulations offer a constant stream of quick betting action. Why Play at New EU Online Casinos? While the EU is home to some long-established gaming giants, newer online casinos offer a different kind of thrill. Here's why players are making the switch: Innovation First New casinos like Rolletto are built on the latest technologies, making for smoother interfaces, quicker load times, and more powerful features like mobile-first gameplay, gamified loyalty systems, and real-time rewards. Bigger Bonuses Unlike older platforms that might skimp on promos, new EU casinos tend to go all-in on player acquisition, offering larger bonuses, more free spins, and frequent promotions to keep players hooked. Regulatory Awareness With stricter EU regulations coming into effect, newer casinos have the advantage of building compliance into their operations from day one. That means safer gameplay, clearer terms, and more player control tools. Fresh Game Libraries New casinos often feature latest-generation games and mechanics – think crash games or live shows with Twitch-style streaming. They're not stuck offering yesterday's content. Niche Experiences New casinos often cater to specific player profiles—poker enthusiasts, mobile-first players, esports bettors—offering tailored experiences that go deeper than the mainstream. Latest Innovations at New European Casinos Online Europe is known for pushing the envelope in the iGaming world. The newest batch of online casinos is embracing groundbreaking tech and player-centric models that redefine how we gamble. 1. Mobile-First Game Design With mobile usage dominating Europe's online habits, new casinos are designed with mobile optimization as the priority, not an afterthought. Instant play, gesture-based controls, and low-latency performance are standard. 2. Gamification and Challenges Modern casinos are adopting features like: Achievements and unlockable rewards Missions with progression paths Level-up systems that earn bonuses Seasonal events tied to new releases These make new European casinos online feel more like gaming platforms than betting sites. 3. AI-Powered Personalization From recommending games to managing responsible gaming limits, AI is personalizing the casino experience like never before. Smart alerts, flexible limits, and tailored offers are helping players stay safe while enjoying their favorite games. 4. Social Casino Elements The line between casino and social app is blurring. New EU sites are introducing: Player chat rooms Live tournaments with social leaderboards Twitch-style streams with influencer-hosted games It's all about enhancing engagement beyond the bet. Ready to Play at the Newest EU Online Casinos? From jaw-dropping bonuses and next-gen features to unforgettable gameplay and secure platforms, new European casinos online like Rolletto are proving that sometimes newer is better. Whether you're a seasoned slot spinner or a curious newcomer, these sites bring Europe's rich gaming culture directly to your device. So why settle for yesterday's interface when you can roll with the future? Dive into Rolletto and other top-tier new European casinos and discover a world of excitement, entertainment, and real-money opportunities – all wrapped in continental charm. Your next winning spin might just be one click away. Editorial NoteThis article is provided solely for informational and entertainment purposes. Nothing within should be interpreted as legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers should carry out their own research before participating in any gambling activities or signing up with any online casinos CautionOnline gambling comes with financial risks and may lead to addictive behavior or monetary loss. We urge all readers to gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, professional help is available. If you suffer from a gambling problem or suspect somebody you know does, then we strongly suggest that you call the National Gambling Helpline at 0808-8020-133 to talk with an advisor for help and to make gambling safer for you or your loved these free gambling addiction resources: only. It is up to each individual to verify whether online gambling is permitted under their local, state, or federal laws. Neither the publisher, the authors, nor any syndication partners condone or support unlawful gambling. Participation in online gambling is done at the reader's own discretion and risk. Affiliate Transparency This article may include affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase or register, a commission may be earned, at no extra cost to you. Syndication and Liability Disclaimer Any third-party publishers, media platforms, or syndication partners that republish this content do so understanding that it is meant for informational purposes only. These entities are not responsible for the legality, accuracy, or interpretation of the Rolletto Address: Poreias, 2 3011, Limassol, Cyprus Website: Email: support@ in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Times
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Times
16 of the best things to do in London with children
Few cities are as child-friendly as London. From interactive museums to soldiers on horseback,Harry Potter filming locations to open-top buses, the capital has plenty to keep young ones enthralled. Throw in age-appropriate restaurants, hotels with plenty of family appeal and a skyline straight from the films and London is an adventure for children of all ages. Here are some of the best things to do in the capital with children, whether they love animals, white-knuckle thrills or simply eating as much cake as possible. This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue Hold on tight for an adrenalin-pumping trip down the Thames that's guaranteed to appeal to thrill seekers of all ages. You'll be kitted out in life jackets to board a speedboat by the London Eye before cruising out towards Canary Wharf past the Houses of Parliament, St Paul's Cathedral, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, the Shard and Tower of London. An on-board comedian/guide means that bog-standard commentary as you sail is replaced by plenty of quirky stories and funny facts that kids will love. As the river widens, the boat's speed picks up and you'll race out to Docklands at up to 35mph, with the boat twisting and turning like you're escaping the villain in a James Bond film. • Discover our full guide to London History is way more interesting to kids if it's gory or spooky, so a trip to the Tower of London will fascinate them. This medieval castle and world heritage site was built by William the Conqueror and has served as a royal palace, a prison and the home of the Crown Jewels. Tickets include a tour with a Yeoman Warder — otherwise known as a Beefeater — which run every half an hour from the main entrance. Expect to hear tales of bloody executions, the exotic animals that once lived in the Tower and the ghosts said to haunt it to this day. You'll also see the room where Guy Fawkes was imprisoned, the famous ravens who live at the Tower and the priceless royal jewels watched by armed guards. • Best family hotels in London Great views can be hard to sell to kids, but a vista enjoyed from the top of a giant ferris wheel? Now you're talking. Situated on a stretch of the South Bank that also features Shrek's Adventure! and the London Aquarium, the London Eye's rotating pods provide a killer perspective on more stately attractions over the River Thames, including the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Wow your family with this fun fact: 'Big Ben' isn't the name of the structure — known as the Elizabeth Tower since the Queen's diamond jubilee — but of the bell itself. • Best luxury hotels in London The ceremonial handover of the King's Guard is British pomp and ceremony at its best. Children will love seeing the marching soldiers — all wearing their distinctive red tunics and bearskin hats, some on horseback — enacting this centuries-old ritual. Troops gather at St James's Palace and Wellington Barracks before marching along The Mall to the sounds of the military band. Many visitors to London make the mistake of setting up camp outside Buckingham Palace, but a pre-booked small-group tour can offer superior vantage points as well as insightful commentary to help everyone understand what on earth is going on. • Best affordable hotels in London under £200 London's theatres are host to a wealth of child-friendly musicals, from literary spin-offs such as Matilda and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child to reimagined Disney films including Frozen and The Lion King. The latter has been running for nearly 25 years with good reason; inventive sets and imaginative puppetry and costumes conjure a convincing savannah dreamworld in a corner of Covent Garden. Elton John and Tim Rice's impossibly catchy songs, including the show-stopping opener Circle of Life and the life-affirming Hakuna Matata, mean all-aged audiences invariably leave the Lyceum humming along. • Best hotels with a view in London London was a port long before it became England's capital, and there's no better way for children to learn about its seafaring history than with a visit to one of its vintage ships. Built for the China tea trade, Cutty Sark was state-of-the art when she set out on her maiden voyage in 1870 and still looks chipper today — kids will love exploring the cabins and steering their way through a virtual voyage. It's a 25-minute journey along the river from Tower Pier (serving the Tower of London and Tower Bridge) to Greenwich, and travelling by Thames Clipper is all part of the fun. • Best hotels in London with pools A Rembrandt self-portrait and Van Gogh's Sunflowers are among the highlights of one of the world's greatest collections of paintings, and cherry-picking from its 2,300 works will help visitors of all ages stave off cultural fatigue. A one-hour highlights tour of the National Gallery is the ideal timeframe and a Blue Badge guide will steer visitors through the crowds to study a handful of key pieces in more detail. Top tip: bring paper and pencils so children can sketch their own souvenirs, and make a game of spotting animals in the artworks, from the dog in Jan van Eyck's Arnolfini Portrait to George Stubbs' Whistlejacket. • The best serviced apartments in London London is home to many Harry Potter filming locations, from the Ministry of Magic (Great Scotland Yard) to Hogwarts' spiral staircase (St Paul's Cathedral). A walking tour is a great way to engage the attention of older kids who can handle two to three hours on their feet; guides tend to be genuine fans, who know their Mandrakes from their Muggles. The itinerary ends at Platform 9¾ in King's Cross station and from here there are trains out to Watford and the Harry Potter Studio Tour (be sure to book tickets for this several months in advance). Even the most hardened museum-phobes can't resist mummies, and Bloomsbury is home to the largest collection of Egyptian artefacts outside Cairo. The galleries put flesh on the bones of these ancient relics, presenting clues to the lives of people who died between 3,000 and 1,800 years ago. Check out the hieroglyphics on the Rosetta Stone, perhaps the world's most famous slab of rock, before time-travelling to see Anglo-Saxon treasure unearthed at Sutton Hoo and armour once worn by a Japanese samurai. In need of sustenance before going into battle? There's a family-friendly pizzeria on site. • The best dog-friendly hotels in London Any child who's ever watched a David Attenborough documentary will get a kick out of the Natural History Museum, a bewilderingly comprehensive institution that charts 4.6 billion years of planet Earth. Highlights include a skeleton of a mighty blue whale, an array of stuffed animals and birds, plus interactive exhibits such as the earthquake simulator and dinosaur gallery quiz. Admission to the museum is free, but one of the best ways to keep kids engaged is by booking onto a private tour with an experienced guide. The museum's occasional sleepovers sell out months in advance. • The best Airbnbs in London With central London's greenest fleet of hop-on hop-off buses, Tootbus also offers special kid-focused tours capped at 45 minutes which should wipe out those enquiries of the 'are we nearly there yet?' variety. Routes are packed with big-hitting stops, from historic Westminster Abbey to the neon lights of Piccadilly Circus, the prime minister's residence at Downing Street and the wax museum Madame Tussauds (home to an immersive Star Wars experience). Live commentary from guides helps bring landmarks to life, arming children with fun facts and trivia about the capital. ZSL London Zoo is the world's oldest scientific zoo and is set within the northern corner of Regent's Park. Its menagerie includes everything from tigers and gorillas to penguins and pygmy hippos, but perhaps most thrilling are the walkthrough attractions, such as Monkey Valley or Butterfly Paradise, where visitors share space with wildlife. Be sure to catch one of the timetabled feeding sessions and talks — witnessing birds in flight over the display lawn is a particular highlight — or book an overnight stay in one of the Zoo lodges in the Land of the Lions habitat, within roaring distance of the resident pride. Just around the corner from Royal Mail's Mount Pleasant sorting office in Clerkenwell is one of London's best small museums for children. Diverse displays bring to life the storied history of correspondence, including a collection of unread love letters recovered after a maritime disaster and a tall (but apparently true) tale about an escaped lioness. Kids will love learning about the Mail Rail while riding a miniature train through a century-old network of subterranean tunnels, and there's also a postal-themed play space. Here, children aged eight and under can role-play being a postie, having a go at moving the mail through a series of slides and chutes. Part-sculpture, part-helter-skelter, the ArcelorMittal Orbit is the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park's red steel equivalent to Paris's Eiffel Tower. Bonus: this piece of architecture also contains the world's longest tunnel slide. Kids must be eight years old and at least 1.3m to ride its 178m length; yodelling on the way down is highly recommended. Next, mosey on over to the nearby London Aquatics Centre for an Aqua Splash session: the inflatable obstacle course is ludicrously good fun and sits right alongside the Olympian Tom Daley's diving academy. From wizards to dinosaurs, David Hockney to Willy Wonka, London's top hotels have drawn on diverse inspiration to tempt junior guests in for afternoon teas. But this Mayfair establishment requires no introduction: tea at the Ritz is the stuff that stories are made of. From the tinkling piano music to the solicitous attentions of liveried staff, children will enjoy the atmosphere as much as the endless rounds of dainty treats — from cucumber sandwiches to freshly baked scones, via countless jewel-like pastries. The kitchen is happy to accommodate fussy eaters, and everyone gets a box of their favourites to take home. • Best places for afternoon tea in London For a family day out in London, you can't go wrong in one of its glorious patches of green: eight protected spaces, treasured by locals and visitors. Richmond Park is the biggest, and home to more than 630 red and fallow deer, while Hyde Park is perhaps the most varied, with swimming and boating on the Serpentine, plus the Diana Memorial Playground, where play equipment includes a huge wooden pirate ship. Regent's Park's Open Air Theatre is the place to see outdoor productions every summer, while Primrose Hill is ideal for rolling down (although parents may prefer the view from the top). • Best things to do in London• Best free things to do in London
