Night Safari, WWT London Wetland Centre

Now that the days are longer and hotter than ever, there are plenty of reasons to get out after sunset. WWT London Wetland Centre has got summer evenings covered for your kids with their intrepid Night Safaris.

Everybody knows that outdoor pursuits are more exciting in the dark: den building becomes a cosy stargazing enterprise, and there will be a whole new collection of animals to observe their nocturnal routines. You might not find lions, tigers or bears, but this safari does promise bats, owls and hedgehogs - which are way more authentic to the area anyway. On clear nights there will be a constellation masterclass, and lessons in the art of making bonfires will carry on regardless of the weather.

WWT's oasis of wildlife is located a convenient 10 minutes from Hammersmith, for the ultimate country experience within the city limits. There can be no better way to round off a summer evening than a campfire storytelling session, with marshmallows very much provided. With any luck, your kids will be enjoying themselves too much to notice that they’re getting fresh air, exercise and education - all in one fell swoop.