A Guide to Entertaining the Whole Family in Barnet

Posted on 21/10/2025

A Comprehensive Guide to Entertaining the Whole Family in Barnet

Barnet, nestled in North London, is an exciting borough packed with activities, attractions, and experiences that cater to all ages. Whether you're a local or planning a visit, exploring Barnet with your family presents a tapestry of adventure waiting to unfold. In this guide to entertaining the whole family in Barnet, you'll find suggestions for parks, museums, entertainment centres, family-friendly eateries, and hidden gems that guarantee memorable moments for everyone.

London

Why Choose Barnet for Family Fun?

Barnet's unique blend of urban conveniences and green, tranquil spaces makes it an ideal destination for family entertainment. From outdoor spaces where kids can run free to engaging indoor activities on rainy days, Barnet offers a versatile palette for all preferences.

Vast parks and recreational grounds
Historical attractions and cultural hotspots
A thriving culinary scene with plenty of family-friendly options
Accessible public transport links from central London

Outdoor Adventures: Enjoying Nature in Barnet

1. Escape to Trent Park

One of Barnet's largest open spaces, Trent Park is ideal for families seeking to connect with nature. Sprawling over 413 acres, it offers woodland trails, lakes, and a charming cafe. Keep an eye out for:

Adventure playgrounds for younger children
A Go Ape treetop adventure for the more daring family members
Wildlife watching - look out for deer and waterfowl!
Picnic areas for those long, sunny afternoons

2. Parks and Playgrounds for All Ages

Barnet excels in green spaces offering playgrounds, sports courts, and relaxing paths for strolls or bike rides. Some top picks include:

Oak Hill Park: Features excellent play areas, tennis courts, and walking paths
Friary Park: Known for its beautiful rose gardens and historic bandstand
Barnet Playing Fields: Offers sports pitches and ample room for family games and picnics

Rainy Day Entertainment: Indoor Activities in Barnet

3. Discover Barnet Museum

Step back in time at Barnet Museum, a hidden gem set within a charming Georgian building. This museum brings the borough's rich heritage to life with fascinating displays. Families can enjoy:

Hands-on exhibits detailing local history
Costumes and dressing-up corners for children
Special workshops and family events throughout the year

4. Family Fun Centres and Indoor Playgrounds

If you need to burn off some energy, try one of Barnet's popular indoor play or leisure centres:

Little Rascals Barnet: A bright, engaging soft play hub perfect for younger children
Flip Out Brent Cross: A vast trampoline park just on the border of the borough, ideal for children and parents alike
Hollywood Bowl Finchley: Classic ten-pin bowling and arcade games for the whole family

These centres often offer dedicated toddler sessions, family deals, and birthday party packages - be sure to check online for the latest offers!

Culture, Learning, and Creativity

5. Explore Artsdepot

The award-winning Artsdepot in North Finchley stands at the heart of the borough's cultural life. It's one of the best places for entertaining families in Barnet thanks to:

Theatre performances - from classic children's tales to modern comedies and musicals
Art workshops and family-friendly creative classes
On-site cafe perfect for relaxing between shows

6. Barnet Libraries: More Than Just Books

Don't overlook the joys of a good local library! Barnet's libraries are buzzing community hubs offering:

Interactive storytimes for babies and toddlers
Craft sessions and coding clubs for older kids
A fantastic selection of books, comics, and digital resources

Many libraries in the borough, such as Chipping Barnet Library and North Finchley Library, run regularly scheduled activities specially designed for families.

Sports, Fitness, and Active Family Fun

7. Swimming Pools and Leisure Centres

If you're searching for active fun, Barnet is home to several excellent leisure centres, which offer:

Heated swimming pools with dedicated family swim times
Indoor gyms, basketball courts, and squash courts for older kids and adults
Children's activity clubs and holiday camps

Popular centres include Finchley Lido Leisure Centre and Barnet Copthall Leisure Centre.

8. Adventure Golf and Tennis

Enjoy some friendly competition with a round of adventure golf at Crazy Golf at Dinosaur Safari Adventure Golf in nearby Borehamwood or at clubs within Barnet itself. Several parks and tennis clubs also offer affordable family sessions and lessons for youngsters and novices alike.

Family-Friendly Eateries and Sweet Treats

Exploring all of Barnet's attractions can work up an appetite! Fortunately, Barnet features an array of cafes, restaurants, and bakeries ready to cater for every taste and budget.

9. Cafes and Bistros with a Family Atmosphere

Daisy's in the Park (Totteridge and Trent Park) - Casual brunches, healthy kid's menus, and cakes galore
Huddle Cafe (East Barnet) - Spacious seating, play corners, and hearty homemade fare
Patisserie Joie de Vie (East Finchley) - Authentic French pastries and sandwiches, loved by locals

10. Global Flavours for Adventurous Appetites

Laza Food & Wine: Persian and Mediterranean-inspired feasts
Il Funghetto: Family-friendly Italian classics with welcoming staff
B&K Salt Beef Bar: A Barnet institution famous for delicious, traditional sandwiches

11. Sweet Shops and Ice Cream Parlours

Yogopink: Indulgent frozen yoghurt and toppings
Miel's Gelateria: Homemade gelato in a rainbow of flavours
The Sweet Spot: Pick-n-mix heaven for children (and adults!)

Hidden Gems: Unique Ways to Entertain in Barnet

12. Barnet's Secret Cultural Spots

Stephens House and Gardens: Discover Victorian history, beautiful grounds, and regular family workshops
Finchley Nurseries: Great for an afternoon tea or just wandering the garden centre and play garden
Hadley Green: An atmospheric historic common, perfect for gentle walks and kite flying

13. Seasonal Festivals and Community Events

Throughout the year, Barnet is home to a variety of seasonal festivals, fairs, and open days designed for families:

Summer outdoor cinemas in local parks
Winter Christmas markets and ice rinks
Children's theatre and live music at local community halls

Be sure to check Barnet Council's website or local community boards for up-to-date listings and family deals.

Practical Tips for Family Visitors in Barnet

Transport: Barnet is well-served by tube (Northern Line), rail, and bus services. Many attractions are within walking or cycling distance of each other.
Parking: Most parks have car parks, but they can get busy on weekends - consider public transport if you can.
Accessibility: Many venues cater well to families with buggies or prams, and most public play areas have inclusive designs.
Events: Look for seasonal offers, especially during school holidays, where many attractions run free or discounted family events.

Top Tips for Entertaining the Whole Family in Barnet

Mix It Up: Combine a park day with a cultural or creative experience for a well-rounded outing.
Plan Ahead: Check venues for advance booking or capacity restrictions, particularly for popular attractions or rainy days.
Pack Snacks and Essentials: While there are plenty of cafes, having your own snacks helps keep energy levels high - especially for little ones.
Stay Flexible: Part of the magic is spontaneous discoveries, so leave space in your itinerary for unexpected fun!

Frequently Asked Questions: Family Fun in Barnet

Is Barnet safe for families? Yes, Barnet is known for being one of the safer London boroughs, with family-centric communities and plentiful green spaces.
Are there free things to do with kids in Barnet? Absolutely! Parks, playgrounds, libraries, and many museums are free or low cost for families.
What's the best time of year to visit Barnet with family? Spring to autumn offers gorgeous weather for outdoor activities, but winter brings festive markets and indoor fun as well.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Family Day Out in Barnet Awaits

With its wonderful array of parks, cultural treasures, play centres, and family-friendly restaurants, Barnet has something to offer for every family. Whether you're seeking outdoor action, creative workshops, culinary delights, or simply a great playground for little adventurers, Barnet never disappoints. Use this guide to entertaining the whole family in Barnet to create joyful outings, lasting memories, and a new appreciation for this vibrant corner of North London. The next unforgettable family adventure is just around the corner!