Clowning around at the Mayor's Thames Festival

Fireworks, circus performers and street art combine to entertain families at the 2008 Mayor’s Thames Festival. Boris Johnson’s first Mayor’s Thames Festival promises to be a real treat for families with circus performers, street art and music filling London for the weekend party.

The annual Great River Race (Saturday 13 September 2008) has over 300 crews from around the world competing in a 22 mile marathon from Richmond to the Docklands. Serious rowers mix with fancy dress charity teams, each vying for one of over 30 trophies.

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has teamed with CBBC to offer children a film-making masterclass and the opportunity to experience being a reporter or camera operator. The CBBC Me and My Movie activities are held in Jubilee Gardens from 12pm to 7pm throughout the weekend.

Sunday night’s finale to the Festival is expected to wow visitors with an explosive display of fireworks, launched from two barges positioned mid-stream on the River Thames between Waterloo and Blackfriars Bridges.

After enjoying the Festival, visitors to the Capital can return to the comfortable luxury of a studio suite at Park Plaza County Hall London, particularly ideal for families.

The spacious bedrooms at this four-star deluxe hotel comfortably accommodate two adults and two children (under 12). A self-contained kitchenette and separate living room with sofa bed allows families the flexibility to prepare their own meals and space to relax.

Park Plaza County Hall’s family package treats children like mini VIPS with complimentary slippers, a bath duck filled with soap, unlimited children’s movies, Park Plaza Money (£5 voucher per child to be used in the hotel for food and beverages) and free gift bags including a children’s map of the area, toys and pencils.

On Saturday afternoons, guests under 12 years are invited to an afternoon tea party (from 4-5pm) including games, costumes, soft drinks, hot chocolate and biscuits. Children can also make their own pizza, which can be eaten that evening in the hotel’s colourful Spectrum restaurant.

Park Plaza County Hall London is located on the South Bank of the River Thames, within walking distance of some of London’s top family attractions including The London Eye, London Aquarium and the Houses of Parliament.

Rooms are available from as little as £157 per room per night. Rates include one night accommodation in a studio suite for two adults and two children under 12 years, breakfast and VAT.

For reservations and further information about Park Plaza County Hall London’s family packages, visit Parkplazacountyhall.com.