There are lots of fun activities on this weekend for both children and adults – why not learn about science, make your own ice cream or see some stunning press photography?
Icy Activity Day at the London Canal Museum
Cool down with this fun day of children’s activities at the London Canal Museum, which brings the story of the Victorian ice trade to life. Between 10am and 4pm kids can learn how ice forms, help create an ice-based artwork, and make – and sample! – authentic ice-cream with the help of Victorian cook Agnes Marshall. Entry to the museum is £4 for adults or £2 for children. 10 Aug
Treasures from a Hidden Garden at the Chelsea Physic Garden
In the 18th century, celebrated botanical artists such as Georg Dionysius Ehret worked in the Chelsea Physic Garden to study, sketch and paint the plants within. This tradition is still alive today, and members of the Chelsea Physic Garden Florilegium Society meet every month. This exhibition provides a rare chance to see their wonderful paintings and drawings – don’t miss out! Entry is £9 for adults. Until 30 Aug
Free Theatre Performances at The Scoop, More London
Part of the More London Free Festival, these back-to-back theatrical perfomances provide a perfect evening of free entertainment by the Thames. Every Wednesday to Saturday in August you can see a family performances of The Prince of Thebes at 6pm, followed by Oedipus and Antigone for older audiences from 8pm to 10pm. To see these two great Thebes-based plays, simply turn up and bag a seat; you’re also welcome to bring your own food and drink, as long as it’s not in glass containers. Until 1 Sep
Day of the Mind Fete, Mile End
The Shuffle Film Festival, curated by Danny Boyle, runs between 8 and 18 August and features the London Olympic opening ceremony director’s films as well as local shorts, dance and music. One of its highlights will be the Day of the Mind fete, run in conjunction with the Wellcome Collection. The free event takes place from 11am to 11pm on Sunday and includes talks, workshops and science-based fun for both children and adults. 11 Aug
The Press Photographer’s Year Exhibition at the National Theatre
Relive the events of 2012 at this consistently stunning exhibition, which showcases the best press photographs used in the UK media. More than 12,000 photographs were entered for consideration, and the competition’s judges have selected the best 150 for recognition and public display. You’ll see incredible shots in categories such as news, royalty, entertainment and the Olympics, which can’t fail to inspire you to make the most of your own camera. Entry to the exhibition is free. Until 30 Aug
