GOOD VENUE FOR A FRIENDS AND KIDS GET TOGETHER IN LONDON?

[Lozzer]

We live in Malaysia and are coming back to London for Christmas. We want to find a venue in central London where we can invite our friends (and kids) to meet up during the day on Sunday 14th December, and I wonder if anyone has any suggestions?
Normally, we come back to London in the summer and invite people to come and have a picnic in Hyde Park. That always works really well. The kids can play rounders etc. and the adults can chat and its all very relaxed.
But, in the winter? I thought about hiring a capsule on the London Eye, but that only lasts 30 mins or so. And I don't really want to book a restaurant and have to pay 40 quid a head, and have restless kids roaming around. (Kids range in age from toddlers through to 8 or 9.)
Any ideas?
Many thanks, Lorien

[twinklytoes]

not from london but the natural history museum had a winterwonderland thing last year with xmas markets and ice rink - would think there would be suitable seating for a longer visit?

[littleducks]

there is a 'winterwonderland' in hyde park

[Lozzer]

Many thanks, I just had a look at the Winter Wonderland. looks fun, but not really what I am am looking for. I want somewhere where kids can play and adults can (more or less) chill out and have a chat. A tall order, I know....
But any other leads most welcome
Lorien

[paow]

I know the place for you, more less.
The Foyer of the Royal festival hall, you can be in there for a while (has food/drink etc) kids can run around and usually they have some lunchtime music for free.
You can then pop out to the south bank and go on the carrousel, the London eye, etc. I really recommend it.

[bigTillyMint]

Paow's idea sounds good.

We have also met up with friends at the transport museum in Covent Garden - you can (probably best to as the cafe is upstairs and a bit poncy!) take packed lunch - there are tables, etc. We found it quite chilled, even with our 2, 4, 6 and 8 yearolds!

Then go out and watch street preformers and get a coffee and cake, or whatever. The kids love the street performers!