Summer has arrived, and there’s no better time to discover everything Putney has to offer. Whether you’re planning a family day out, looking for creative activities to keep the children entertained, or simply want to make the most of our beautiful riverside, Putney has lots to do throughout August. From scenic walks and free family events to creative workshops, swimming lessons and delicious dining, here’s your guide to an unforgettable summer in Putney.
One of Putney’s greatest attractions is the River Thames, and a walk along the riverside is the perfect way to spend a sunny summer’s day. Before you set off, why not pick up some picky bits from one of Putney’s fantastic bakeries, cafés, delis or supermarkets and enjoy lunch by the river.
Start on Putney High Street before taking the short five-minute walk down to Putney Embankment. From there, follow the Thames Path towards Hammersmith Bridge, enjoying spectacular river views as rowers, paddleboarders and boats pass by. If you’re feeling adventurous, continue beyond Hammersmith Bridge to the peaceful Leg O’ Mutton Nature Reserve, before crossing Barnes Bridge and making your way back to Putney.
Stop off at St Mary’s Church Square for a game of table tennis on the outdoor table provided by Positively Putney.
Pop into Ground Coffee to borrow bats and balls, then enjoy a free game with family and friends in one of Putney’s favourite community spaces.
Treat yourself with lunch or dinner overlooking the Thames. This summer, Thai Square Putney Bridge is celebrating its 30th anniversary with The Endless Horizon: Infinite Thai Dining on the Thames, available every day until 30 September.
For £30 per adult and £15 per child (under 12), guests can enjoy 90 minutes of freshly prepared, made-to-order Thai cuisine served directly to the table. Inspired by the traditional Thai Samrap sharing experience, the menu includes unlimited starters, soups, salads and sides, followed by your choice of authentic Thai favourites such as Green Curry, Pad Thai, Beef Panang Curry and vegetarian classics. An unlimited drinks package is also available for £15 per person.
They also have a Kids Eat Free Promotion until 30th September for every Al le Carte order! Details here. With panoramic views across the Thames, it’s the perfect way to round off a summer’s day.
Looking for a creative way to keep little hands busy this summer? Studio Art Cafe is running its popular Summer Holiday Camps throughout August for children aged 5–10 years. Each day is packed with arts and crafts, giving children the opportunity to create exciting projects, make new friends and explore their imagination in a fun, welcoming environment. Camps run from 9am–4pm, with a maximum of just ten children each day, ensuring plenty of individual attention.
If a full-day camp isn’t for you, Studio Art Cafe also offers pottery painting, ceramic painting, jewellery making, canvas painting, Fluid Bear art, mirror decorating and much more for children, families and adults throughout the summer. Find out more: https://studioartcafe.co.uk/pages/holiday-camps
Whether your child loves drawing, painting or getting hands-on with clay, Putney School of Art & Design has a fantastic programme of creative courses running throughout August. Young people can choose from Art & Design, Photography, Printmaking, Kids Art Club, Kids Pottery Club and Family Learning sessions, while older students can develop their portfolios through specialist portrait and drawing workshops.
With half-day, full-day and multi-day courses available, there’s something for every budding artist. Explore the full programme and book: https://www.psad.org.uk/course-list/courses-for-young-people/
Looking for a relaxing family activity? Pitter Potter has extended its opening hours throughout the summer holidays, giving families even more opportunities to paint pottery together. Choose from mugs, plates, bowls, ornaments and keepsakes before adding your own creative touch. No experience is needed, making it the perfect rainy-day activity or a chance to unwind after a busy morning exploring Putney.
Book your visit: https://www.pitterpotter.co.uk/
Every Saturday throughout August, Putney Exchange is hosting its free Around the World summer programme, packed with family-friendly entertainment in the Summer Garden near the escalators. (Putney Exchange) Here’s what’s coming up:
Saturday 8 August | 11am–2pm
Passport Design Workshop with Gizem
Create your own travel passport ready for an imaginary journey around the world.
Saturday 15 August | 11am–3pm
Balloon Modeller
Watch incredible balloon creations come to life and take home your favourite design.
Saturday 22 August | 11am–2pm
Mini Suitcase Craft Workshop with Gizem
Decorate your very own miniature suitcase for your next make-believe adventure.
Saturday 29 August | 11am–4pm
Circus Skills Workshop
Learn juggling, plate spinning and other exciting circus tricks in this interactive workshop.
Find out more: Putney Exchange Around the World Events
Help your child build confidence in the water this summer with Get Set Swim’s intensive August crash courses. Each course includes five consecutive days of 30-minute lessons, with a choice of 4:1 group, 2:1 paired or 1:1 private lessons. Children are carefully matched by age and ability and taught by experienced swim coaches.
The courses are ideal for beginners, children preparing to move up a swimming stage, or those looking to improve specific skills such as breathing, floating or stroke technique.
Find your nearest course: https://www.getsetswim.co.uk/
Putney Library is bursting with free family activities this August as part of the Summer Reading Challenge: Read to the Beat, encouraging children to discover the joy of reading through music, creativity and storytelling. (summerreadingchallenge.org.uk)
Highlights include:
Wednesday 5 August – Wandsworth Music Workshop
- 12pm – Under 5s
- 12.40pm – Ages 5+
Booking required.
Wednesday 12 August | 11am – Mishappopotamus Storytime and Craft
Join local illustrator Katy Homden for a fun storytime followed by a creative craft session.
Thursday 13 August | 4pm – Musical Storytime
An immersive storytelling session using instruments and interactive objects to bring stories to life.
Saturday 15 August | 2pm–4pm – Saturday Crafternoon: Musical Instruments
Drop in and create your own musical instruments using recycled materials. No booking required.
Wednesday 27 August | 11am–12pm – Creative Composing Workshop
Children can explore music-making in this fun composition workshop. No musical experience is necessary, and participants are welcome to bring their own instrument. Booking required.
Thursday 27 August | 4pm – Musical Storytime
A second opportunity to enjoy this popular interactive storytelling experience.
Friday 28 August | 11.15am–12.15pm – ZooLab
Meet reptiles, amphibians and bugs in this exciting wildlife encounter. Booking required.
Alongside these special events, families can enjoy regular Rhymetime sessions, Storytime, Lego Club and Board Games throughout the school holidays.
Whether you’re exploring the riverside, getting creative, taking on a swimming challenge or discovering free family events, August is the perfect time to enjoy everything Putney has to offer.
Support local businesses, discover somewhere new and make this summer one to remember right here in Putney.