Spring in London

Head to Hackney where, on weekends, this hip eatery rustles up Mediterranean-style breakfasts. Served with spinach, chili butter, yoghurt and sage, the poached eggs deliver a wholesome spicy kick. There are plenty of kid-friendly options, too, such as granola with pomegranate and pistachio. Come early to avoid crowds: this is a beloved address of the brunch set.

A hop and a skip from Morito, this charming urban farm is a hit with young Londoners. Alongside pigs, horses and goats, pay your respects to Larry the donkey, a star of London’s Easter parades. Fellow farm residents also include several rabbits and laying hens; you can buy the latter’s eggs in the shop. Take a break afterwards in the café, whose locavore-themed menu spans juices, milkshakes and potent cappuccinos.   

For an easy Easter egg hunt in an unforgettable setting, head to this Victorian town hall in the East End. The listed building now houses an arts centre and Michelin-starred restaurant The Clove Club. Every year, thousands of chocolates are hidden away in the nooks and crannies of the impressive building. As they make their way around, kids will also be treated to games, performances and creative workshops.

After a stroll through Bloomsbury, head to Covent Garden to sample Rococo’s unique creations. Behind an old-school façade, the artisanal chocolatier offers high-end London-made confectionary. The milk chocolate and salted caramel “seagull eggs”, presented in an egg carton, are a hit with all ages. While you’re there, indulge in their rich, smooth hot chocolate.

This contemporary Clerkenwell gastropub specialises in Sunday roasts – an unmissable weekend ritual in London. The warm-yet-chic venue’s sublime Beef Wellington is its calling card, but the roast lamb is also popular, especially at Easter. Both come with hearty helpings of Yorkshire pudding, seasonal vegetables and perfect roast potatoes. It’s best to book in advance.

There’s no better way to end the day than a visit to Gelupo in Soho. This ice-cream parlour is a year-round favourite with sweet-toothed sophisticates thanks to its creative flavours, which change daily and reflect the seasons. At Easter, chef-patron Jacob Kenedy draws inspiration from the gourmet traditions of Italy and the UK. Last year, his take on a hot cross bun (featuring raisins, cinnamon and lemon) was a hit with regulars.