Family-Friendly Things to Do Near The Gate Aparthotel

Staying with kids at The Gate? You’re in luck. East London is bursting with creativity, colour, and history—and plenty of places that welcome families. Here’s our handpicked selection of local venues and activities that are fun for all ages.

Creative & Cultural Spaces

• Whitechapel Art Gallery
  This iconic gallery offers free exhibitions and often runs family workshops and creative activities during school holidays. Calm, spacious, and inspiring for curious minds.
  📍Whitechapel High Street | 3 min walk
  
  

• Rich Mix
  A diverse cultural venue hosting family film screenings, art shows, and creative workshops. Their weekend programme often includes events tailored for children.
  📍Bethnal Green Road | 10 min walk
  
  

• Toynbee Studios (Artsadmin)
  While performances here tend to be more adult-focused, the building and its community often host inclusive, accessible events and open spaces suitable for families interested in arts and experimentation.
  📍Commercial Street | 5 min walk
  
  

• Wilton’s Music Hall
  One of London’s oldest surviving music halls, this beautiful venue often puts on family-friendly shows, including storytelling, concerts, and holiday specials in a magical, historic setting.
  📍Graces Alley | 12 min walk
  
  

• Balloon Museum (pop-up)
  A sensory, immersive art exhibition celebrating all things inflatable. Brilliant for little ones and grown-ups alike. Keep an eye out for dates and availability.
  📍Spitalfields / rotating venues
  
  

Markets, Food & Open Spaces

• Old Spitalfields Market
  A vibrant covered market that’s stroller-friendly and perfect for wandering with kids. Browse independent food stalls, toy vendors, and sweet shops. There’s often street performance and live music on weekends.
  📍Brushfield Street | 8 min walk
  

• Devonshire Square
  A quiet, open-air square with tables and space to relax. Family-friendly cafes and occasional pop-up events or food trucks make it a peaceful break spot.
  📍Off Bishopsgate | 6 min walk
  

• Street Feast Dinerama (check age restrictions)
  A lively food market with global bites and casual seating. Best suited to families with older kids or teenagers. Some evening hours may be 18+—check listings.
  📍Great Eastern Street | 15 min walk

Iconic Attractions

• Tower of London
  An unbeatable day out for families. Explore the Crown Jewels, Yeoman Warders, medieval towers, and fascinating exhibitions. Great for all ages with plenty of interactive elements.
  📍Tower Hill | 12 min walk
  

• Tower of London Ice Rink (seasonal)
  If you're visiting during winter, this open-air rink in the moat of the Tower is a magical experience for kids and adults alike.
  📍Tower Hill | Seasonal
  

• Dixie Queen Paddle Steamer / Golden Flame Cruises
  Family river cruises that show off London from the Thames. Some sailings include afternoon tea or themed events suitable for children.
  📍Tower Millennium Pier | 10–15 min walk

Games & Entertainment

• All Star Lanes (Brick Lane)
  Retro bowling with kid-friendly food options, games, and music. They offer bumpers and lightweight balls for younger players. Book ahead for weekends!
  📍Brick Lane | 12 min walk
  

• Dabbers Social Bingo
  Not your average bingo hall! They host themed family matinees that are packed with colour, energy, and prizes suitable for all ages.
  📍Houndsditch | 7 min walk
  

Bonus Picks for Treats & Chill Time

• The Spitz / Luxe, Spitalfields
  Both are casual, stylish spots with space for buggies, friendly staff, and good kids' menus or sharable small plates.
  📍Spitalfields | 8–10 min walk
  

• Theatre Deli Broadgate
  A flexible arts space often running performances, workshops, or installations that are suitable for families. Check their site for family-friendly programming.
  📍Broadgate Circle | 12 min walk
  

• Stageworks Studios
  A performing arts space offering occasional public workshops or showcases for young performers—ideal if your child loves to dance or act.
  📍Shoreditch | By appointment