It’s time to fill your weekend with fun stuff, and these family-friendly events in and around the capital are all the inspiration you need 

Ascot Summer Mile Raceday

For a combination of both quality horse racing and family entertainment, Ascot’s Summer Mile racing weekend is a great way to kick off the summer holidays in style. Alongside a seven race card on the Saturday, visitors can kick back on the famous lawns with champagne and picnics, while the dedicated Family Area boasts everything from traditional fairground rides to a special Teddy Bears’ Picnic lawn. Young racegoers will be more than entertained all day, with furry friends Paddington Bear and Scotty the Ascot Mascot on hand to meet-and-greet, plus arts and crafts lead by Lloyd Warbey of Art Attack fame, balloon modelling, face painting, live music, jugglers, pony rides and an interactive story-telling of Michael Rosen’s We’re Going On A Bear Hunt.
When: Saturday 15 July, from 11am

Where: Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire SL5 7JX

How much: Adults, from £24; children go free

ascot.co.uk

Lambeth Country Show

Now in its 43rd year, this free family show organised by EventLambeth has all the attractions of a traditional country fair. Expect plenty of live music, as well as horticultural shows, lively sheep dog and owl displays, home-grown vegetables, numerous arts and crafts and food stalls, and an on-site farm zone with animals from Vauxhall City Farm. Little ones will love w...