Thank you both for v. helpful advice - decided not to risk a one-hour wait with two teens and went for the Ed's Diner/Hobbit route. As you predicted NCTP they loved the Hobbit (and, have to confess, so did I. Was dreading three hours of sci-fi but it's actually brilliant, especially in 3D!)

Thanks again,

BNF

Science Museum and Natural History Museum usually a good bet, but be warned I have just come back from there today and we had to queue for an hour to get in the building and then an extra 45 mins to see the dinosaurs. Never seen it so busy

Would highly recommend the Science museum which is good for all ages, especially if they are into science - and is free to get in!

They will enjoy the Hobbit though and really they get so much eductaion at school it is equally v good for them to have a true break from it all in the holidays!

Why not give them a couple of choices and see what they prefer to do?

In a fit of Christmas goodwill invited my two nephews to have a day up in London without their Mum and Dad. But wtf do I do with them now?!! Need ideas for something that won't break the bank/result in their getting lost or abducted etc. Am thinking The Hobbit in Leicester Sq followed by a trip to Ed's Easy Diner, but feel I should be making more of an effort education-wise. They're 14 and 12 and one is a passionate space/Brian Cox/science fan. Any ideas v.v. gratefully received.