Something for the littl'uns

They may be small but there are big things planned for the youngsters this weekend. Give them a treat at The Firebird, take them on a tour of Parliament, nose through the archives and get into the Harvest Festival spirit.

THE FIREBIRD This new interpretation of the classic Russian fable tells the tale of Prince Ivan and his brothers, who set off in search of the legendary firebird. Two actors bring a host of characters to life, transforming everyday objects into wonderful creatures with the help of a little imagination. Pure theatrical magic. Jacksons Lane Theatre, Archway Road, N6 (020-8341 4421). Sat 20 Sep, 11am & 2pm, £4.50. Watermans, High Street, Brentford (020-8232 1010) Sun 21 Sep, 3pm, £6, child £4.

HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT TOUR Parliament reopens to visitors this Friday for a behind-thescenes tour. Visitors can gain access to the Queen's Robing Room, the Royal Gallery, the House Of Commons and the House Of Lords and more. There are tours every few minutes and there's a cafe at the end of it all to help you recharge your batteries. Houses Of Parliament, SW1, (bookings 0870 906 3773), until Sat 4 Oct, Mon, Fri, Sat 9.15am-4.30pm, Tue, Wed, Thur 1.15pm -4.30pm, £7, child £5, family ticket £22.

NATIONAL ARCHIVES OPEN DAY The world of spies and espionage is laid bare this Sunday when the National Archives at Kew flings open its doors for an Open Day. Children can try their hands at some special activities including faking their own passport and code-busting. They'll also be able to shake hands with some infamous spies from history including medieval impostor Perkin Warbeck. The National Archives, Ruskin Avenue, Kew (020-8392 5202), Sat 20 Sep, 10am-4pm, free.

HARVEST DAY Fields of corn may be a rarity in the capital - and harvest happened earlier than ever this year - but this interactive day gives young urbanites the chance to experience seasonal country rituals past and present on the Kenwood estate. Kenwood House Hampstead Lane, NW3 (020-8348 1286). Sun 21 Sep, 11am-1pm, accompanied child £2.