Discover the Best Family-Friendly Activities to Enjoy in Catford

Posted on 05/11/2025

Catford, located in the London Borough of Lewisham, is an ever-evolving neighbourhood filled with vibrant culture, lush green spaces, and a welcoming community perfect for families. Whether you're a local resident or planning a visit, this guide will help you discover the best family-friendly activities to enjoy in Catford. From charming parks to creative workshops, and cultural hotspots to delicious eats, Catford boasts a range of experiences suitable for families with children of all ages.

Why Choose Catford for Family Fun?

When it comes to family-friendly destinations in South London, Catford stands out with its unique blend of entertainment, education, and relaxation. The area is renowned for:

Spacious and safe parks ideal for picnics and play
An ever-growing 'foodie' scene with kid-friendly menus
Thriving arts and culture venues
A diverse calendar of family-focused community events
Easy access to public transport and ample parking

Let's take a deep dive into the best family-friendly activities Catford has to offer -- perfect for unforgettable weekends or school holiday fun!

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1. Explore the Lush Green Spaces of Catford

Mountsfield Park: A Local Favourite

Mountsfield Park is one of the largest parks in Catford and a true gem for families. Boasting sprawling lawns, state-of-the-art play areas, and scenic walking paths, it's perfect for those looking to connect with nature or simply let the kids run free.

Adventure Playground: The recently refurbished playground features safe, innovative equipment for children of all ages.
Cafe: Refuel with coffee and snacks while the kids play.
Sports Facilities: Enjoy tennis courts, football pitches, and a trim trail for older children and adults.
Events: Keep an eye out for the annual Mountsfield Park Festival with live music, food stalls, and more family fun.

Ladywell Fields: Riverside Fun & Wildlife

Just a short stroll from the heart of Catford, Ladywell Fields offers an expansive natural playground, bisected by the River Ravensbourne. This is one of the most loved outdoor family activities in Catford:

Picnic on open meadows
Explore adventure play zones with zip slides, climbing walls and sandpits
Walk or cycle along the scenic riverside trails
Spot birds, butterflies and even herons
Visit the on-site cafe for ice creams and treats

For a bonus, don't miss the wildflower gardens in spring and summer--a colourful, fragrant escape for the whole family.

2. Dive into Creativity with Art & Culture

Catford Mews: The Community's Cultural Hub

Catford Mews is a unique venue that has quickly become the epicentre of community life in Catford, ideal for family-friendly experiences all year round. Here, families can:

Catch a Family Film: With a three-screen cinema, Catford Mews features a curated selection of kids' films, weekend screenings, and special family events.
Arts & Craft Workshops: Regular creative classes and drop-in sessions for children to explore arts, crafts, and more.
Enjoy live performances, including theatre, music, and comedy acts suitable for children and teens.
Relish diverse cuisine--from pizzas to burgers and vegan bites--while you relax in the vibrant food court.

Local Libraries: Inspiring the Next Generation

The Catford Library is much more than a place for books! It hosts weekly rhyme time sessions, storytelling hours, and themed workshops that children love. Libraries in Catford also organise:

Seasonal reading challenges
Creative writing classes for kids
Interactive activities and games to foster early literacy skills

These engaging sessions encourage a lifelong love of reading in little ones and provide parents with a supportive, inclusive community.

3. Enjoy Sporting Activities and Fitness in Catford

Glass Mill Leisure Centre: Swim, Splash, and Stay Active

If you want to keep the whole family active, visit the Glass Mill Leisure Centre located nearby in Lewisham. Here's why it's one of the top family-focussed sports centres near Catford:

Swimming Pools: Family swim sessions, children's swimming lessons, and a dedicated aqua-play area for toddlers.
Modern Gym Facilities: For teens and parents looking to stay fit.
Fitness Classes: From family yoga to parent-and-child dance workshops.

Don't forget to check out their holiday clubs and special events, providing safe and enjoyable experiences during school breaks.

Catford Wanderers Sports Club

Located in Southend Lane, Catford Wanderers is a multi-sport club with a warm, community focus. Take your pick from tennis, cricket, football, and table tennis, plus family-friendly tournaments and open days throughout the year.

4. Try Unique Indoor Activities on Rainy Days

Let's Go Bonkers Soft Play

If the weather turns, Let's Go Bonkers on Rushey Green is the ultimate indoor escape for families in Catford. Here you'll find:

A safe, colourful soft play centre with slides, climbing frames, and ball pits
Dedicated toddler areas for little adventurers
A relaxing cafe for parents with free WiFi
Party facilities for birthdays and celebrations

This spot is especially popular with families seeking fun things to do in Catford with young children on rainy afternoons.

Mini Picassos: Art for All Ages

Mini Picassos offers inspiring art classes, workshops, and afterschool clubs for children. Parents and children can get creative together by:

Joining Saturday morning 'family art' sessions
Attending themed holiday workshops during half-terms
Booking birthday parties packed with painting and crafts

All skill levels are welcome, making it an inclusive, imaginative experience for everyone.

5. Discover Exciting Family Events and Markets in Catford

Catford Food Market: Tastes the Whole Family Will Love

The monthly Catford Food Market brings together a mouthwatering selection of global street food vendors, local bakers, artists, and crafters. Situated in the heart of Catford, this event offers:

Fresh international dishes, sweet treats, and snacks for all ages
Craft activities and face painting for kids
Live music and community performances

It's a fantastic way to introduce children to new flavours while supporting the local community.

The Broadway Theatre Catford

This iconic art deco theatre hosts a diverse programme of shows throughout the year, including children's theatre, festive pantomimes, and family-friendly musicals. Enjoy interactive performances and special workshops designed to spark a love of the arts in young people.

Seasonal Festivals and Community Events

Throughout the year, Catford's event calendar is packed with highlights such as:

Spring and summer fairs in local parks
Free outdoor movie nights
Christmas and Halloween events for families
Workshops in music, dance, and crafts for children

6. Discover Family-Friendly Food Spots in Catford

Finding delicious, kid-friendly eateries in Catford is easy! Some top choices include:

Riva Lounge: Offers a dedicated children's menu, relaxed atmosphere, and delicious Mediterranean dishes to suit every palate.
Bottle Bar and Shop: While crafted for adults, regular pop-up pizza and burger events are perfect for older kids and teens.
Catford Bridge Tavern: A welcoming pub with a garden, board games, and hearty meals for all ages.
Local Cafes: Take your pick from the many independent coffee shops serving homemade cakes and snacks, many with buggy-accessible space and high chairs.

Most restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan options, making it convenient for families with specific dietary needs.

7. Hidden Gems and Quirky Experiences

Catford Cat & Catford Broadway Theatre Ghost Tours

Did you know? Catford is famous for its giant fibreglass cat sculpture perched above the entrance to the Catford Shopping Centre. Kids will love snapping a selfie with the Catford Cat!

For families with older children, local history groups occasionally run spooky walking tours of the Broadway Theatre, where you can learn about the venue's theatrical heritage and possible ghostly visitors.

Catford's Street Art

Take a self-guided art walk around Catford to admire colourful murals and playful street art scattered across the neighbourhood. It's a fun, free way to get active while inspiring creativity in the kids.

Planning Your Visit: Tips for Stress-Free Family Days in Catford

Check opening times and booking details for workshops, events, and indoor activities, as some may require advance reservations.
Wear comfortable shoes for walks and bring a picnic blanket for impromptu park feasts.
Follow #CatfordFamily or look up local Facebook groups to stay updated on upcoming family-friendly events and specials.
Remember many venues and parks are dog-friendly, making it easy to bring along furry family members.

Conclusion: Why Catford is the Ultimate Family Day Out in South London

Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, creative play, community events, or delicious dining options, Catford is bursting with opportunities for family-friendly fun. The area's parks, cultural venues, and eateries are tailored to welcome children and parents alike, making it one of South London's best destinations for families.

Plan your perfect day out now with these top ideas for family-friendly activities in Catford, and create lasting memories with your loved ones -- there's always something new to discover!