100 Things to Do with Dad in London in 2026

Are you on the hunt for brilliant gift experiences for Dad in London that go way beyond the usual? Well, you've come to the right place! Whether you're planning a birthday treat, celebrating Father's Day, organising a Christmas surprise or simply fancy spending some quality time together, we've rounded up 100 things to do with Dad in London in 2026.

From creative workshops and foodie adventures to fascinating museums, iconic London landmarks and outdoor escapes, there's something for every sort of dad. We've also included real customer recommendations to help you find experiences that have already made other dads smile! Let's dive in and find your perfect gift. 

Why Dad doesn't need to be creative to enjoy a creative class

Think your dad needs to be the next Da Vinci or a master craftsman to enjoy a hands-on workshop? Think again! At ClassBento, we firmly believe that creativity isn't a exclusive club – it’s just about having a go and having a brilliant time doing it. In fact, some of the best experiences are had by the dads who haven't picked up a paintbrush or a lump of clay since their school days!

There's no pressure to get anything perfect, and he'll benefit from expert help every step of the way. All he needs to do is show up, give it his best shot and he'll walk away with a cool keepsake to show off to anyone who asks! He might even find his new favourite hobby.

Creative and unique workshops

1. Go on a screen printing adventure in Hackney

For the dad with a creative streak or a love for unique design, this screen printing workshop in London is a fantastic choice for an arty experience. This dynamic workshop invites him to delve into the exciting world of screen printing, where he'll learn how to translate his own ideas (or pre-designed images!) onto fabric or paper. 

What he’ll love about screen printing:

• Expert guidance in top studios: A skilled instructor will lead him through a lively London studio, teaching him how to create stencils, mix vibrant inks, and master the printing press.

• A tactile digital detox: It’ll get him away from screens and fully immersed in a new craft – perfect if he's usually stuck in an office!

• Unique, cool keepsakes: He will leave with a completely custom creation, whether that’s a bespoke t-shirt, a stylish tote bag, or a brilliant piece of wall art to show off at home.

You told us:

"I got this as a gift for my dad and we had the best time! We did the screen printing process from start to finish - even showing us how to change images in photoshop to create a usable image for the screen. Our teachers were great, very enthusiastic & friendly. I would highly recommend it and would love to go back to do another workshop!" Tilly Elcock, Screen printing workshop, Hackney 

2. Craft pizza perfection in Canary Wharf

Does your dad love pizza, or perhaps he's always wanted to master the art of Italian cooking? Then a traditional pizza making workshop will definitely make his day – from pizzerias in Peckham to restaurants in Richmond, he can learn to toss that dough like a pro! 

What he’ll love about pizza making

• Master the art of the pizzaiolo: He'll get happily stuck into the heart of Italian cooking, learning the secrets to kneading perfect dough and creating crispy, chewy crusts.

• Expert culinary guidance: Guided by a professional Italian chef, he will learn how to craft amazing sauces and perfectly balance gourmet toppings.

• Pure, interactive indulgence: This isn't just a standard cooking class – it’s a flavour-filled journey that combines skill-building with fun.

• A delicious reward: The absolute best part of the experience is sitting down to eat his own mouth-watering creations fresh from the oven!

You told us:

"I got this for my dad as a Christmas present with my sister and we all absolutely loved it!" Michaela Savatteri, Dough it yourself pizza masterclass, Canary Wharf

3. Discover block printing in Battersea

For the dad who appreciates art, design, and the magic of creation, this printmaking class in the city makes for a genuinely engaging experience. This workshop invites him into the fascinating world of printmaking, where he can explore techniques like linocut, drypoint, or monoprinting. He'll learn how to transfer designs, prepare plates or blocks, and use presses to create unique artistic impressions. 

What he’ll love about block printing

• Lots to learn: He’ll uncover the secrets of transferring intricate designs, carving blocks, preparing plates, and operating traditional printing presses.

• Mindful focus and planning: The process perfectly combines careful, creative design work with hands-on crafting, making it a great way to switch off and unwind.

• Art that lasts a lifetime: He'll head home with a collection of lovely artwork that he can proudly frame and display on the wall at home.

You told us:

"I took my dad to this as his 70th birthday present as he’s always wanted to try lino printing, and we both absolutely loved it. The teacher was fantastic and gave really clear instructions, regularly checked in with everyone in the class, and let us experiment with multiple prints. It was a lovely environment and we were both really happy with our prints which we were able to take home. I’d definitely recommend this and thought it was excellent value for money and a really fun and unique way to spend an afternoon." Katie Scott-Marshall, Introductory printmaking class, Battersea 

4. Go on a watercolour escape in Putney

Is your dad a secret artist waiting to be discovered, or just someone who appreciates a little calm creativity? Then he’ll love this watercolour painting class! Watercolour is renowned for its tranquility and soothing nature, making it ideal for capturing light and soft colours. 

What he’ll love about watercolour painting

• No pressure for perfection: He'll learn essential techniques like mixing vibrant shades, creating lovely washes, and building delicate layers in a supportive, stress-free space.

• Mindful focus on the process: The workshop focuses purely on the joy of applying brush to paper, helping him gently unwind and quieten a busy mind.

• Ethereal artwork to take home: He'll finish the session with a lovely new skill and a beautiful, soft painting to take home.

You told us:

"Thoroughly enjoyed our introduction to watercolours. Anna was great at giving us the confidence to have a go at new techniques... and we came away with a painting we'll be proud to show to others. Highly recommended!" - James Edward Brook, Watercolour painting workshop, Putney. 

5. Explore the art of mending with gold in Aldgate

Looking for eco-friendly ways to treat Dad? If he's a zero-waste hero and fancies learning how to make something from nothing, this kintsugi pottery class is an absolute gem. This ancient Japanese art involves lovingly mending broken pottery with lacquer dusted or mixed with powdered gold, magically transforming imperfections into shimmering lines of breathtaking beauty. 

What he’ll love about kintsugi:

• A therapeutic process: The hands-on practice fosters patience and mindfulness, offering a relaxing space to slow down and find joy in the unexpected.

• An uplifting philosophy: He'll learn the profound meaning behind kintsugi – that breakages can make an object stronger and more beautiful – making it a truly inspiring experience.

• A unique, story-filled keepsake: He'll leave with a completely bespoke piece of repaired pottery to display proudly at home, loaded with personal meaning and creative history.

You told us:

"I brought my dad with me, who is a huge art and ceramics enthusiast – and he had the best time! This is my second class and I can truly say I enjoy each workshop more and more. I’m so thankful his class exists – wish there were more in west London too." Gabriella Caspi, Kintsugi pottery class for beginners, Aldgate

6. Create calm with candle making in Shoreditch

For a super sensory and calming experience, this candle making class is a brilliant choice if you’re looking for things to do with Dad in London. The process of crafting candles is incredibly soothing and utterly enjoyable, and involves choosing scents, melting wax, and lovingly pouring it into moulds or beautiful containers. 

What he’ll love about candle making

• Custom scent creation: Dad can experiment with a wide array of gorgeous fragrances and essential oils to create a unique profile that completely suits his taste – from refreshing citrus to warming cedarwood.

• A tactile digital detox: Measuring ingredients, setting wicks, and working with rich scents provides a brilliant mental break from screens and daily routines.

• A lasting, fragrant reminder: He’ll head home with a beautiful bespoke candle, ready to light up his space and bring a tranquil, comforting atmosphere to his evenings.

You told us:

"I’ve had such a good time with my dad. I think this was the chillest way to spend Father’s Day doing something we both enjoy." Mayowa, Candle making class, Shoreditch 

7. Have a go on the pottery wheel in Camden

If Dad likes learning by doing, a pottery wheel class is a great next step! At this pottery wheel throwing class, he'll get hands-on with clay and learn the basics of shaping his own unique project. 

What he'll love about pottery:

• Trying something new: Discover how to centre and shape clay on the wheel.

• Getting stuck in: It's a hands-on activity that doesn't require previous experience.

• A memorable shared activity: Have a laugh together while learning a skill.

You told us:

"Booked this for my dad for this birthday and we had such a lovely time!! It was super chill and our teacher Tanvi was great, she gave really good instructions and stepped into give a hand if we needed it. I think it was really good value and can’t wait to see our pieces fired and glazed." Mabel Peel Evans, Pottery wheel throwing class, Camden.

8. Build a miniature garden at a terrarium workshop in Haringey

For a dad who loves plants, nature or a spot of DIY, a terrarium workshop lets him build a tiny green world of his own. At this terrarium workshop in Finsbury Park, he'll learn how to create a miniature ecosystem to take home.

What he'll love about terrarium making:

• A bit of nature indoors: Create a living decoration for his home or desk.

• A creative challenge: Learn how the different layers work together.

• A lasting reminder: Take home a little garden he can look after.

You told us: 

"My dad and I had a brilliant time at this workshop! Great value for money and brilliant instruction. Would highly recommend." Hannah Greatrex, Terrarium workshop, Haringey. 

9. Learn to make fresh pasta in Canning Town

For the dad who loves a good meal, a pasta-making experience is a brilliant mix of cooking, learning and eating. At the ultimate pasta making experience, he can get hands-on with fresh pasta and enjoy the results of his work.

What he'll love about pasta making:

• Learning a useful skill: Discover techniques he can try again in his own kitchen.

• A proper foodie experience: Get involved in making the meal rather than just ordering it.

• Enjoying the results: Share a delicious experience together.

You told us:

"Davide's lesson was excellent fun. He taught us how to make two kinds of pasta with ease which we then enjoyed in his lovely home. The food was delicious and Davide was a wonderful teacher. Couldn't recommend enough - thank you." Matt Wilson, The ultimate pasta making experience, Canning Town.

10. Shake things up with a cocktail masterclass in Hackney

If Dad loves discovering new flavours or mixing a great drink, a cocktail masterclass is a fun alternative to the usual pub visit. At this premium cocktail-making masterclass, he can learn about mixing and balancing drinks in a guided session.

What he'll love about cocktail making:

• Learning the techniques: Get to grips with mixing, measuring and presentation.

• Trying new flavour combinations: Discover drinks he might not usually order.

• A sociable experience: Make it a shared treat for a birthday or special occasion.

You told us:

"Teacher was fantastic, was very charismatic and made the session very fun, passed on lots of knowledge. Highly recommend this class for anyone who enjoys cocktails." Ollie Brown, Premium cocktail-making masterclass, Hackney.

Foodie experiences: things to do with Dad in London

From hands-on cooking classes to iconic food markets, these ideas are ideal for dads who believe the way to a good day out is through their stomach!

11. Explore Borough Market and browse the independent food stalls together, picking out treats to share.

12. Take a food tour of Soho and discover the area's restaurants, bakeries and hidden culinary gems.

13. Book a sushi-making class in Archway and learn how to prepare Japanese favourites together.

14. Visit Maltby Street Market for a relaxed stroll through Bermondsey's popular food market.

15. Learn to make dumplings at a cooking workshop in Woolwich and discover techniques to recreate at home.

16. Try a cheese-tasting experience and compare British and international varieties.

17. Explore London's coffee scene with a coffee-tasting or barista workshop.

18. Book a chocolate-making class in Notting Hill and spend an afternoon learning how sweet treats are created.

19. Discover a new cuisine together, from Thai and Indian cooking to Italian regional dishes.

20. Plan a pub lunch with a twist by choosing a historic London pub you've never visited before.

Art, design and culture

For creative dads, curious minds and anyone who likes looking at the world a little differently, London's art scene offers plenty of inspiration.

21. Visit Tate Modern and explore contemporary art inside the former Bankside Power Station.

22. Spend an afternoon at the National Gallery discovering paintings by some of the world's best-known artists.

23. Explore the Design Museum in Kensington and discover how everyday objects, architecture and technology shape our lives.

24. Browse the V&A for design, fashion, photography and decorative arts.

25. Take a street-art walk through Shoreditch and spot colourful murals around East London.

26. Visit the Photographers' Gallery in Soho for exhibitions celebrating photography and visual culture.

27. Explore the Saatchi Gallery in Chelsea and discover contemporary art exhibitions.

28. Book a drawing class in Walworth if Dad fancies trying a creative activity with a difference!

29. Try a pottery painting workshop in Borough and personalise a mug, plate or decorative piece.

30. Explore the Royal Academy of Arts in Piccadilly for major exhibitions and historic collections.

Museums and fascinating places

Whether he's a history buff, a science enthusiast or someone who loves discovering how things work, these London museums make excellent days out.

31. Visit the Natural History Museum to explore everything from dinosaurs to the natural world.

32. Explore the Science Museum and get hands-on with fascinating inventions, engineering and technology.

33. Head to the British Museum to discover objects and stories from cultures around the world.

34. Visit the Imperial War Museum to explore the history and impact of modern conflict.

35. Discover the London Transport Museum in Covent Garden and trace the evolution of the city's transport network.

36. Explore the Museum of London Docklands to learn about the capital's maritime and trading history.

37. Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich and discover the history of astronomy and timekeeping.

38. Explore the National Maritime Museum and uncover stories of exploration, navigation and Britain's maritime past.

39. Book a tour of the Royal Albert Hall and discover the history behind one of London's most recognisable performance venues.

40. Take a guided tour of Shakespeare's Globe to learn about theatre, performance and the history of the famous playhouse.

Outdoor activities and green escapes

Need some fresh air? These outdoor activities are ideal for dads who enjoy a walk, a bit of adventure or a break from the city crowds.

41. Walk along the South Bank and enjoy riverside views, street performers and landmarks along the Thames.

42. Hire a pedalo in Hyde Park for a relaxed outdoor adventure when seasonal services are operating.

43. Explore Kew Gardens and spend a few hours discovering botanical collections and glasshouses.

44. Go deer-spotting in Richmond Park and enjoy one of London's best-known green spaces.

45. Walk up Primrose Hill for panoramic views across the city.

46. Explore Hampstead Heath and discover woodland paths, open meadows and viewpoints.

47. Cycle along the Thames Path for a different perspective on London's riverside neighbourhoods.

48. Book a guided nature walk and learn more about the wildlife and plants found around the capital.

49. Try a smartphone photography class and practice capturing London's architecture, parks and street scenes.

50. Spend an afternoon at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park exploring its open spaces and walking routes.

London's landmarks and iconic views

Sometimes the best things to do with Dad in London are the classics. These ideas are perfect for first-time visitors, lifelong Londoners and anyone who enjoys seeing the city from a new angle.

51. Take a ride on the London Eye for sweeping views across the capital.

52. Visit the Tower of London to explore its history, famous fortress and Crown Jewels.

53. Walk across Tower Bridge and admire one of London's most recognisable landmarks.

54. Book a Thames sightseeing cruise to see the city's riverside attractions from the water.

55. Explore Westminster and take in Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey from the surrounding streets.

56. Visit St Paul's Cathedral and admire its architecture and historic interior.

57. Head to the Sky Garden for elevated city views and indoor greenery, checking booking requirements before you go.

58. Explore the streets of Greenwich and then stand on the Prime Meridian line at the Royal Observatory.

59. Take a ride on the IFS Cloud Cable Car across the Thames for a different view of East London.

60. Book a guided walking tour focused on London's hidden history, architecture or famous residents.

Sport and active adventures

For dads who prefer doing something energetic to spending the day browsing, London has plenty of ways to get moving.

61. Take a stadium tour at Wembley and discover the history of one of England's most famous sporting venues.

62. Book a tour of Lord's Cricket Ground if Dad is a cricket enthusiast.

63. Visit the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum and explore the history of the sport.

64. Try indoor climbing at a London climbing centre and challenge yourselves on the walls.

65. Book a golf lesson and work on your swing together.

66. Try a padel session at a London court if Dad fancies discovering one of the fastest-growing racket sports.

67. Go bowling for a relaxed competition and a little friendly rivalry.

68. Book an escape room and work together to solve puzzles before time runs out.

69. Try an indoor go-karting session for a high-energy day out, checking age and height requirements first.

70. Take a beginner's dance class and learn a new routine together, whether it's salsa, swing or something completely unexpected.

Theatre, music and entertainment

If Dad loves a good show, live music or a night out, make an occasion of London's entertainment scene.

71. Book a West End musical and make an evening of dinner and theatre.

72. See a comedy show at a London comedy club for a night full of laughs.

73. Find live jazz in Soho and enjoy an evening of music in an intimate venue.

74. Explore the Southbank Centre's programme for concerts, talks, performances and cultural events.

75. Book a gig at the O2 Academy Brixton and catch an artist he loves, checking the current listings.

76. Visit Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club for an iconic London music experience.

77. See a play at the Old Vic and discover a new production together.

78. Book a film screening at BFI Southbank if Dad loves cinema beyond the latest blockbuster.

79. Explore independent cinemas in London and choose a classic film or an unusual new release.

80. Try a live storytelling or literary event if he'd rather spend an evening listening to fascinating stories.

Quirky London adventures

For the dad who has done the obvious tourist attractions already, these ideas offer a slightly different way to explore the capital.

81. Visit Leadenhall Market and admire its historic architecture while exploring the surrounding City streets.

82. Explore the colourful streets of Neal's Yard in Covent Garden for a quick wander and a few pictures.

83. Discover Little Venice and stroll along the canals around the waterways and moored boats.

84. Take a guided tour of Highgate Cemetery to discover its fascinating history and striking Victorian architecture.

85. Explore the hidden courtyards and passageways of the City of London on a self-guided history walk.

86. Visit Dennis Severs' House in Spitalfields for an immersive experience of life in a historic East London home.

87. Browse the stalls at Portobello Road Market and hunt for antiques, vintage finds and unusual collectibles.

88. Explore Columbia Road Flower Market on a Sunday morning and enjoy the colourful, bustling atmosphere.

89. Take a Jack the Ripper history walk through the East End if Dad enjoys historical mysteries.

90. Visit God's Own Junkyard in Walthamstow to see its striking collection of neon signs and illuminated artwork; check opening arrangements before travelling.

Relaxed days out and quality time

Not every memorable day needs a packed itinerary. Sometimes the best plan is simply to spend time together, catch up and enjoy a change of scene.

91. Plan a picnic in St James's Park and enjoy a relaxed lunch surrounded by greenery.

92. Take a leisurely walk around Battersea Park and explore its gardens and riverside paths.

93. Browse second-hand bookshops together and pick out a book for each other.

94. Plan a coffee crawl through neighbourhoods such as Hackney, Peckham or Bermondsey.

95. Explore a farmers' market and pick up ingredients for a meal you can cook together later.

96. Visit a traditional London pub and settle in for a long catch-up over lunch.

97. Take a short train trip to explore a new neighbourhood and discover independent shops, cafés and local sights.

98. Book a spa or sauna session for a restorative treat if Dad enjoys a little relaxation.

99. Create your own London photo challenge by choosing landmarks, street details and unusual signs to find together.

100. Let Dad choose the itinerary: give him a budget, a free day and the chance to pick three places he's always wanted to visit.

Find the perfect things to do with Dad in London

If Dad is…	Try…	Why it's a great match	Find a class
A design lover	Screen printing	A hands-on studio session that turns ideas into handmade prints.	Screen printing in Hackney with Print Club London - £75pp.
A foodie	Pizza making	Learn new cooking skills and enjoy the results together.	Pizza masterclass in Canary Wharf with Pizza Pilgrims - £60pp.
A craft enthusiast	Printmaking	Explore traditional techniques and create artwork to take home.	Printmaking in Battersea with Lavender Print School - £60pp.
A budding artist	Watercolour painting	A relaxed way to experiment with colour and brushwork.	Watercolour painting class in Putney with Anna Obert Illustration - £50pp.
A thoughtful maker	Kintsugi pottery	Discover a Japanese craft that celebrates imperfection.	Kintsugi pottery class in Aldgate with Kinboru - £62pp.
A homebody	Candle making	Blend scents and make a candle for his home.	Candle making in Shoreditch with Dai-KOR - £45pp.
Someone who loves a challenge	Pottery wheel throwing	Get hands-on with clay and learn a new skill.	Pottery wheel class in Camden with Social Pottery Studio 221 - £30pp.
A plant lover	Terrarium making	Build a miniature garden to take home.	Terrarium workshop in Finsbury Park with Green On The Lanes - £55pp.
A keen cook	Pasta making	Learn how to make fresh pasta from scratch.	Pasta-making experience in Canning Town with Foodievibes_ldn - £70pp.
A cocktail fan	Cocktail making	Explore flavours and learn the basics of mixing drinks.	Cocktail-making masterclass in Hackney with La Bibliotheque - £50pp.

The best day out is one that feels like him. Whether you're planning a special birthday, Father's Day surprise or just looking for things to do with Dad in London that give you a chance to spend quality time together, there's no shortage of ways to make it memorable. And if you'd like to give him something a little more hands-on, a creative workshop is a lovely way to learn something new side by side.

Give him the treat he deserves

These fun things for Dad to try, loved and recommended by people just like you, offer the loveliest way to celebrate the wonderful man in your life. Whether he's into art, food, or simply finding a moment of calm, there's a perfect workshop waiting for him in the capital. We hope this handy list of 100 activities will give you the inspiration you need. Go on, make his day wonderfully unique!