trip to london with toddler

The ultimate 3-day itinerary for visiting London with kids

Ever since my 5-year-old son caught a glimpse of Big Ben in one of his books, he's been utterly fascinated by London' s iconic clock tower. His curiosity soon spread to everything London-related, and he would ask question after question about the British capital.

When it came time to plan our next family vacation, the decision was obvious. We were going to London, and what's more, we let him take the reins in planning the itinerary.

The result? Three days of kid-filled fun (that I thoroughly enjoyed too). From the grandeur of the changing of the guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace to the whimsical Peppa Pig bus tour, our trip hit the highlights from a kid's perspective.

So, whether you have a little one obsessed with Big Ben or are simply looking for a family-friendly destination, London offers many attractions to delight children and adults alike. Here's my three-day guide to help you make the most of your family vacation in this vibrant city.

Day 1: Iconic landmarks and 360-degree views

A ride on the london underground.

If there's one thing I've learned from traveling with a little one, it's to keep the days manageable, especially the first one. So, after landing in the morning, we made our way to the hotel — Hotel Cafe Royal — on the Underground (an activity my son loved) to drop off our bags and have lunch. I'd recommend eating at the hotel or very close by to limit the amount of transit time after what was already a big day of travel.

Once we fueled up, we made our way to the London Eye, where we had 3 p.m. tickets. Buying the fast pass (which we did) allows you to skip the long line (and avoid a meltdown) and get on the famous Ferris wheel quickly. Once on, it's a 30-minute ride where you can see many of the city's highlights. It's a great way to start the trip with a literal overview of London and doesn't require any physical effort.

After taking in the London skyline, we took a five-minute walk across Westminster Bridge to fulfill my son's dream of seeing Big Ben. And his desire couldn't have come at a better time since the famous clock only recently opened after several years of restoration. Although going inside is only available to U.K. residents, we timed our stroll at the base of the clock at 4 p.m. to hear the famous bell ring (it goes off every hour).

Dinner at The Dorchester

We finished up the day with dinner at The Dorchester. The luxury landmark recently underwent a massive renovation, including The Promenade restaurant perched in the center of the hotel. Each seating area was outfitted with a cozy couch, making it the perfect spot to unwind for the day. They had an incredible kids menu with plenty of options, even for the pickiest eaters.

Then it was back to the hotel for an early bedtime and a good night's rest to prep for the action-filled next day.

Day 2: Trains, tea, toys and tradition

Postal museum.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel (I often recommend booking a hotel package that includes breakfast to make it easy), we set out for our first activity of the day. Along with loving Big Ben, my son is also a train fanatic. So, we got 10 a.m. tickets for a lesser-known attraction: the Mail Rail exhibit at the Postal Museum.

This off-the-beaten-path museum dives into London's fascinating postal history with an interactive exhibit that includes a ride on an actual underground train. We wove through the old tunnels, making stops along the way where we learned about the old underground railway system that once moved the city's mail. Although slightly claustrophobic at times (the train is very tiny), it was very entertaining for both kids and adults. A postal-themed play space for kids under 8 features a small-scale village with roads, structures, trams and tunnels.

Changing of the guard

Then it was off to witness the changing of the guard around 11 a.m. We opted to take a taxi to cut down on travel time and made it to the iconic ceremony outside Buckingham Palace. While we couldn't get up close to the gates, plenty of British pomp and pageantry along the Mall entertained my son for a little while.

We kept watching as we made our way to St. James's Park playground, which was just a few minutes' walk from the palace. My son loved climbing on the rocks, walking across the mini bridge and digging in the sandbox. We could see more of the changing of the guard parade from the playground.

Afternoon tea

As you can imagine, we were hungry at this point, and my son requested afternoon tea while in London. We chose The Guardsman as it was just a few minutes' walk and was supposed to be one of the top spots for the quintessentially British experience. We chowed down on sandwiches and pastries, and they gave my son a stuffed bear dressed as a beefeater (a perfect souvenir for what we had just witnessed).

With some renewed energy, we had one last outing for the day. Of course, my son also requested we visit a toy store in town. And there's no better one than Hamleys. It's one of the world's largest and oldest toy stores, with seven floors of gadgets and gizmos. It can be overwhelming as people are dancing, clowns are blowing bubbles and drones are zipping around, but my son had a blast looking at everything. He settled on a small truck as his toy before we returned to the hotel.

Dinner at Cake & Bubbles

With such a busy morning, we decided to spend the afternoon and evening at the hotel. We made it back for the children's hours (4-6 p.m.) at the pool and took a little late-afternoon dip before an early dinner at Cake & Bubbles (attached to the hotel). While the family-friendly restaurant is known for its desserts (the cheesecake is a must), it also has a delicious savory menu of small bites. We enjoyed burgers, pasta, salad and some dessert for a sweet ending to a fun-filled day.

Day 3: Playgrounds and Peppa Pig

The diana memorial playground.

My son always wants to check out the playground scene no matter what city we visit. And one in London is a must-see: the Diana Memorial Playground. After our hotel breakfast and a morning swim (we wanted to keep the morning low-key), we hopped on a local double-decker bus (another request of my son) and made our way to the far edge of Kensington Gardens.

Next to the late Princess Diana's former Kensington Palace home, the Diana Memorial Playground is inspired by the story of Peter Pan. The centerpiece is a large wooden pirate ship surrounded by a sandy beach and "buried treasure." Other features include sensory trails, various toys and play sculptures, all set within a carefully landscaped area. My son loved climbing into the crow's nest and zipping down the hidden slides.

Peppa Pig bus tour

After some playtime, it was time for one final kid-approved activity: the Peppa Pig bus tour. Since my son requested afternoon tea and a double-decker bus ride on the trip and is a fan of the "Peppa Pig" cartoon, I was elated when I learned an option included all three.

The whimsical tour involved driving around the city in a historic double-decker-bus-turned-restaurant seeing the major sites (including Big Ben again) while nibbling on mini pizzas and scones. The kids were served hot chocolate in cups with lids, while the adults had a choice of teas. Individual screens played "Peppa Pig" clips that described the historic sites we drove past. And an onboard emcee played games and sang songs with the kids whenever we were stuck in traffic.

Dinner at the Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane

After the tour, we had some downtime at the hotel before making our way to the final dinner of the trip. Since everything else had been kid-focused, my husband and I opted for a nicer dinner at Pavyllon in the Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane.

Although geared toward adults, the staff was incredibly accommodating and had a kids menu available. They even brought my son's food out first, so he didn't have to wait. And they rushed our dishes, too, so we could have a speedier meal that aligned better with a 5-year-old's patience. We brought a deck of cards and played War throughout dinner, which entertained my son thoroughly.

After dinner, we returned to the hotel for our final night before taking a flight out the following day.

Where to stay

When planning a family stay in London, a plethora of options cater to the needs of both adults and children. For families, areas like South Kensington, Covent Garden and Westminster are ideal due to their proximity to major attractions like the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum and the London Eye.

Hotel Cafe Royal

We opted for Hotel Cafe Royal (part of the Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection ) in Piccadilly Circus. It is near multiple modes of transportation to reach anywhere in the city and within walking distance of numerous attractions, including the Hamleys toy store. What's more, it's incredibly family-friendly. The rooms are spacious, and the property even worked with a former royal nanny to curate the family programming. So, we had a tent with toys set up in the room, and there was a white-noise machine ready to help us all get a good night's sleep. Plus, if you book through the Chase travel portal , you get daily breakfast, a complimentary upgrade and a $100 property credit.

Other properties to consider

But there are plenty of other family-friendly options too. The Hilton London Bankside (available for around $267 or 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night) has a host of family offerings like connecting rooms and an indoor pool. Kids eat free at Holiday Inn London — Oxford Circus, with rooms available for around $328 or 39,000 IHG rewards points a night.

Planning a trip to London? Check out some of our other stories and planning tips:

• 27 of the best free things to do in London
• The complete guide to flying to London on points and miles
• 7 London hotels used by actual royalty
• The best hotels in London
• Chic but a bit cramped: A review of The London Edition

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The 26 best things to do in London with toddlers and preschoolers

It’s easy to think you should put off a family holiday in London until your kids are a bit older – but the city is full of kids, and with so many things to do in London with toddlers and preschoolers, there’s no reason to wait.

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I’ve been exploring London with my daughter since she was a baby – she was a toddler when we first visited some of the major museums and braved the tube with a buggy, so the key is planning carefully and choosing your attractions wisely.

While all these ideas are targeted at kids aged five and under, as any parent knows, there’s a big variation between an 18-month-old toddler, and a four-year-old preschooler, quite apart from accounting for their own likes and dislikes – but with ideas for 26 things to do in London with young kids, all recommended based on my own experience, you’ll have plenty of inspiration for a great day out.

Contents - click to jump to a section

With more than 750 different species and thousands of animals to discover at the zoo – the world’s third oldest after Vienna and Paris – this makes a fantastic day out in London with toddlers.

Sprawling across 15 hectares, you do need to allow at least half a day to make the most of it. There are three colour-coded routes, so if your kids have a few favourites they want to see, it’s easy to focus first on the furred and feathered inhabitants they’ll love most.

There are special areas for different habitats, from rainforest to penguin beach, as well as the land of the lions, gorilla kingdom, the chance to walk with lemurs plus reptiles and insects… too many to count really. There are a couple of walkthrough enclosures which are especially fun for little ones (unless you’re worried about little grabby hands near the animals).

Tickets cost from £27 for adults, from £18.90 for children aged 3-15. Under threes go free, and you can also prebook flexi tickets, plus there are discounted options for those on Universal Credit (and some other benefits).

Check out my tips on visiting London Zoo with kids including tips on finding discounts

Battersea Park Children’s Zoo

This little children’s zoo is great for younger kids – less overwhelming than the main London zoo, less far to walk around and still plenty of animals to delight, especially if you’re short of time (a couple of hours is plenty) or visiting London on a budget.

Because while London Zoo is a fantastic day out with kids, there’s no question that it’s a pricy one – and for younger toddlers, they’re often as excited by a rabbit as something rare and exotic.

You won’t find bigger creatures but there are monkeys and lemurs, wallabies, farm animals, birds, reptiles and assorted small furry things. There’s also an adventure playground to entertain – as well as plenty of space in the park around the zoo.

Tickets cost £12.50 for adults, £10.50 for kids aged over two, under twos are free. Family tickets are also available. Online tickets are valid for 30 days from purchase.

You can also explore more of London’s smaller zoos , including a little free zoo in north London – check out this post for more , as well as our day out at Battersea Park Children’s Zoo

Sea Life London aquarium

A lovely alternative to the city’s zoos for animal lovers, London’s aquarium is a great place to visit with younger kids – the  Sea Life London Aquarium  near the London Eye can get busy at peak times and on rainy days though.

One of the biggest collections in Europe, the aquarium houses over 500 species, 14 themed zones and more than 2 million litres of water with some unusual creatures, as well as some favourites including penguins and clownfish.

Tickets cost from £28 for adults, from £25 for kids if you book online, and kids under two go free.

Go to a city farm

If you’re visiting London with kids who love animals, add one of the many city farms to your list – there are half a dozen sites dotted around the capital which are free to visit.

For example Freightliners City Farm  (between Caledonian Road tube and Highbury & Islington) has some rare breeds, as does  Spitalfields City Farm .

At  Vauxhall City Farm , you’ll find alpacas alongside farmyard animals and even a couple of cats, while there are llamas at  Mudchute .  Hackney City Farm  has some smaller fluffy inhabitants including rabbits and guinea pigs as well as larger creatures too.

For more ideas of free things to do in London with kids , check out this post

Open-top bus tour

London isn’t a small city, and walking for miles isn’t going to go down well with younger kids – rather than wearing out your own legs, or heading underground to catch the tube, it’s easy to combine getting around with some sightseeing on an open-top bus tour.

London has various  open-top bus sightseeing tours  to choose from so there are plenty of different options, depending which routes and times you want – check out my comparison of the best bus tours in London with kids here.

Tootbus  (formerly The Original Tour company) has a special 45-minute London Kids tour which is fun for short attention spans, as well as the classic hop-on hop-off tour around the city.

Or the London  Big Bus Tours  has its own hop-on hop-off routes, with 24 and 48-hour tickets available. Kids under five go free, although if you want to guarantee a seat, it can be wise to book in busy holiday periods – having a toddler on your knee is one thing, having a four-year-old sitting there is less fun!

Hop on a boat

Another fun way to sightsee is by taking to the Thames – in my experience, this is better with preschoolers than toddlers, who tend to get bored on a longer journey down the river.

If you’re wary about paying for a sightseeing cruise that your kids might not love, or from being stuck on a boat for ages, it’s easy to get a little taste and hop aboard Uber Boat by Thames Clippers which runs regular routes along the river, and you can pay as you go.

Check out more of the different boat tours of London with kids for more ideas

It’s not necessarily the fastest way to get around, but you could cruise a couple of stops from around Westminster, Waterloo or Embankment down to the Tower of London, for example (or the opposite direction).

City Cruises  also has various sightseeing cruises which let you hop on and off, including ones with afternoon tea so you can enjoy the sights over some scones to help entertain your kids.

Get 20% off all City Cruises sightseeing tours using code CC20 until the end of 2024 – click here to get the discount and 50% off adult and child 24-hour river pass tickets if you book before May 24 using the code welcome50

Find Paddington

For little fans of Paddington Bear (and who isn’t?), you can spot Paddington in several places around London.

Start with a visit to Paddington Station, where the furry hero of the books was first found by the Browns and received his name.

The lifesize bronze statue with the label asking people to look after this bear is back in its usual home by Platform 1, after a brief stint near the Praed Street entrance. Keep an eye out for a plaque marking his appearances on the page and on screen too.

You’ll also find the Paddington bench in the station, where kids can pose for photos next to him.

You could even l et Paddington be your guide to London too – one of my picks for the best kids’ books about London – or check out the best places to find Paddington in London

The station is also the starting point for the Pawprint Trail – three trails, in fact, each with one of the Paddington statues from the 2014 collection dotted around the city.

For a less well-known statue of Paddington, head to St Mary’s Churchyard at nearby Paddington Green, where you’ll find him commemorated with his creator Michael Bond, one of the Sustrans portrait benches dotted around the country. Or he also pops up with a marmalade sandwich in Leicester Square.

For more things to do around Leicester Square with kids , check out my top picks

Natural History Museum

One of the best museums in London with a toddler – although older kids will also love it here too – there’s the chance to see Andy’s clock if they’re fans of CBeebies shows Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures and Andy’s Prehistoric Adventures, plus the famous dinosaurs and blue whale skeleton in the entrance hall.

That’s all just the start of what you can see at the  Natural History Museum . Braver preschoolers will love the earth sciences section, including a simulated earthquake, after being whisked upstairs by an escalator rising towards dramatic rumbles and red light.

My daughter couldn’t even be persuaded on the escalator as a toddler but younger ones will enjoy the mammals section and you can even have a little break in the Wildlife Garden as well.

It’s unsurprisingly popular, so the free tickets for weekends and school holidays do get snapped up fast – don’t leave it too late to book.

For my tips on visiting the  Natural History Museum with young kids , click here

Science Museum

A short walk from the Natural History Museum, the  Science Museum is another of my favourite places to visit with younger kids and apart from the interactive exhibits of Wonderlab, which does have a booking fee, there’s no charge to visit.

Toddlers and younger kids will love the hands-on area called The Garden, including a water play area, making music, sensory displays, puppets and giant blocks.

For more things to do in South Kensington with kids , check out my pick of the best

The Pattern Pod is another great one for preschoolers – you may need to put your name down on a list at busier times as numbers are limited, so it’s worth checking as soon as you arrive.

Not forgetting the fabulous gallery filled with vehicles, as well as the space gallery and displays on communications – effectively an overview of 250 years of scientific and technological advances which have transformed our everyday life.

Prebooking is recommended during holidays and at weekends and you’re advised to allow at least two hours for a visit. 

For my tips on visiting the  Science Museum with kids , click here.

Victoria & Albert Museum

The third big South Kensington museum, the  Victoria & Albert Museum  (or V&A) is one which often gets overlooked by families – but there’s more to see and do here than you might expect, if you’re visiting London with toddlers.

The world’s largest museum of decorative and applied arts has some fantastic family activities to try, even for the youngest visitors, which are great for bringing the collection to life.

See the costumes from the Lion King, eye-catchingly dramatic court dresses, and a very unexpected automaton of a tiger eating a man, as well as statues, sculptures and more, it’s a fabulous treasure trove to explore with kids.

Prebooking is recommended during the holidays, although the V&A tends to be the quieter of the South Kensington museums. There are also free family events during school holidays and some weekends, as well as digital and physical trails to follow (the family backpacks are currently unavailable).

For my tips on  visiting the V&A with kids , click here

Young V&A

The sister museum to the V&A in South Kensington, the former London Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Green reopened in summer 2023 with a new look and a new name – the  Young V&A .

With its displays of toys and games, it has been a family favourite for years (not least for the nostalgia value), and the much-loved highlights are also back – look out for one of the original Paddington Bear toys.

However while the building is the same grand hall, kids have been involved in coming up with the redesigned look, now themed around three galleries: Play, Imagine and Design.

Best of all there are plenty of chances to get hands on, whether that’s creating your own board game, listening to storytelling, or hitting the sandpit, as well as new items going on display, with a total of 2,000 items to enjoy.

Free to enter, it does get very busy at weekends, so arrive early if you can.

British Museum

You definitely don’t need to be school age to enjoy the British Museum , but this is one place that I would recommend for older preschoolers rather than toddlers, with some fun trails designed for those aged three and up.

They’re a great way to introduce younger visitors to some of the 80,000+ items on display ( check out my visit to the British Museum with a three-year-old ), with trails themed around numbers and colours, as an easy to way to bring some of the artefacts to life.

Otherwise, the mummies and the Ancient Egypt galleries are among the most popular (and usually the busiest) but are never less than fascinating. But you can discover Anglo Saxon treasure, games which date back thousands of years, gods, jewels, everyday items and unique finds, not to mention Romans, Greeks, Vikings and a huge amount more.

Only the special exhibitions have a charge – prebooking free tickets is recommended at busy times and you can download trails in advance (limited paper copies available).

For my tips on visiting the  British Museum with kids , click here.

The Horniman Museum

The only drawback to this lovely museum is that it’s outside central London, because with a little bit of everything, it’s particularly fun with younger kids – ideal if your toddlers feel overwhelmed by the city too.

With galleries on different themes, the  Horniman  is good for little attention spans as you can wander from the famous walrus in natural history to world music and culture, to see butterflies and wander the grounds outside, where you’ll find more animals.

The Nature Base gives kids a chance to get hands on, including stroking a stuffed fox and badger, while older ones can learn more about conservation too.

There’s also a little aquarium, which has a small charge – as do the temporary exhibitions – but otherwise it’s free. The museum can be reached by train from London Bridge station.

Read more about my visit to the  Horniman museum with kids  here.

Postal Museum

The Postal Museum might not be the city’s best-known museum, but there are a couple of reasons why it’s a great one if you’re looking for things to do in London with toddlers and preschoolers.

First of all, you can hop on board the  Mail Rail – underneath the museum are the original tunnels and station platforms of London’s 100-year-old postal railway, which once delivered mail across the city. 

It stopped being used back in 2003 which means that visitors can now travel through those same tunnels on a miniature train.

It’s also home to Sorted! The Postal Play Space – a play area that’s designed as a mini town, with streets and buildings, plus lots to push, pull, slide down and more. Sessions last 45 minutes and must be prebooked.

For more tips on visiting London’s museums with toddlers and preschoolers , check out this post

London Transport Museum

There are few toddlers who aren’t fascinated by vehicles – which makes this museum small child heaven, complete with vintage buses, old tube trains you can climb inside, and various other interactive elements.

Preschoolers will love the London Transport museum too (as will any older siblings), as you go on a journey through London’s transport history, from sedan chairs, carriages and river transport through to the first omnibus and later taxis, doubledecker buses and the underground.

With lots of quirky facts, including the eye-watering amount of dung scooped off London’s streets during the days of horse-drawn vehicles, and lots of displays where you can get hands on, there’s lots to entertain kids.

For younger visitors aged under seven, there’s also the All Aboard play area, with a fleet of mini vehicles and dressing up (riverboat captain or bus driver? Hmmm), plus the Baby DLR area if there are even younger siblings to entertain.

Tickets cost £24 for adults, including unlimited return visits for a year, and is free for kids – you can get a discount if you book via tiqets using my code, MUMMYTRAVELS6 .

Check out my review of a visit to the London Transport Museum with kids and the museum’s Acton depot

Discover Children’s Story Centre

You don’t have to be able to read to get lost in stories at Discover: Children’s Story Centre  in London’s Stratford, aimed at kids aged from 0 to 11.

This fantastic multi-sensory play space in east London is perfect for young children, complete with two floors of magical Story Worlds and a Story Garden, featuring everything from a pirate ship to a spacecraft and plenty of other fun imaginary lands for kids to explore.

There are various timed activities and you can build your own session, including any special exhibitions and storytelling, plus the play spaces across the two main floors.

Tickets cost £9 for adults and children aged over two, £3 for one-year-olds, and under ones go free. There are also family tickets, while exhibitions and some activities have an added charge of around £2-£4

One of my top unusual things to do in London with kids – you can check out the rest here

There’s something very fun about sailing around above London in an updated ferris wheel that’s going to appeal to a lot of younger kids, especially if they can pick out some London landmarks from on high.

However, tickets to the London Eye aren’t cheap, so it’s another attraction that I’d recommend for preschoolers rather than toddlers, especially those who are likely to get bored fast or want to run around. Too little, and they just won’t appreciate the experience.

Once you think your kids are going to enjoy soaring above the city, it’s worth checking out fast track tickets – there are always timed slots for your ‘flight’ but that still involves a reasonable amount of queuing, so the fast track option lets you to skip the queue.

You can choose between two options, where you get priority boarding at a specific time, or more expensive open tickets, where you turn up whenever you want and get priority boarding. You can also find combined tickets with other Merlin attractions on the South Bank , including the aquarium.

Explore the Sky Garden

For a garden that’s rather different from your average park, head to the  Sky Garden , London’s highest public garden.

Sitting at the top of the skyscraper Londoners know as the Walkie Talkie building (if you’re struggling with directions, it helps to know what to spot), the garden is free to visit, although you do need to book in advance to soak up the views and to have ID to enter.

With a covered terrace, you can get some amazing views across to the Shard (which has its own impressive views !), St Paul’s, Tower Bridge and along the Thames during your hour slot.

Not far from Monument station, you can also stroll past the famous Monument itself on the way (whether you fancy singing London’s Burning together is up to you!)

For more of the best viewpoints in London with kids , check out my top picks including some more free options

Visit a park

London is a much greener city than you might expect, with parks galore across the city – each has its own attractions, so they’re destinations in their own right, but also great to combine with an indoor attraction.

Coram’s Fields is walking distance from the British Museum, for example, so a great way to burn off some energy after looking at the exhibits. Or Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens are a good option if you’ve been to the nearby museums and are looking for more things to do in South Kensington with kids .

Kensington Gardens is also home to the impressive Diana Princess of Wales playground ( click here for more ideas of the best playgrounds in London ) , while Hyde Park has the Diana Memorial fountains, or you could spot pelicans at St James’s Park, across the river from the London Eye.

A little further west, there are peacocks in Holland Park while Regent’s Park surrounds the zoo.

Or if you’re heading out of the centre, you can’t miss the dinosaurs at Crystal Palace Park.

Check out my post on the best free things to do in London with kids for more details on London’s parks

Check out a playground

Sometimes all you need is a bit of time playing to boost flagging energy levels – and you’ll find play areas both in London’s parks and dotted around the city for when toddlers and preschoolers need a break from exploring.

A stone’s throw from the London Eye, Jubilee Park & Garden has its own playground for example.

For playgrounds that are almost destinations in their own right, the Diana Memorial Playground is one of the best known, in the north-western corner of Kensington Gardens, with a huge wooden pirate ship as its centrepiece, plus a sensory trail, play sculptures and plenty more.

There’s a toddler playground in Holland Park, as well as its adventure playground for more adventurous preschoolers, while if you’re out by the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Tumbling Bay playground has sand, wobbly bridges, pools and more to play in.

Or in Greenwich, this new play area by the National Maritime Museum puts other playgrounds in the shade.  The Cove  is all set around a ship with sea creatures, designed to bring children’s imaginations to life as well as letting them climb, clamber and play to their heart’s content.

And for somewhere really special, head to Paddington Recreation Ground playground, aka Paddington Rec near Maida Vale tube – designed for all ages and abilities, it’s intended to encourage creative play… you’ll find a steamliner, train, tunnel, musical instruments, a forest play area among the trees, plus the highlight, pastel coloured playhouses which look like terraced houses.

Click here for more ideas of the best playgrounds in London

Splash in the fountains

This is one to save for a sunny day, but when the city basks in a heatwave, the best thing to do in London with young kids is to splash in one of the fountains which have started popping up in recent years.

Some of the best are at Granary Square near Kings Cross. Made up of 1,080 separate jets, they dance in patterns, as kids splash excitedly among them.

You can also find more fountains in the courtyard of Somerset House off the Strand, as well as The Riverside at More London near Tower Bridge, 200 jets arranged in lines which spring up to catch the unwary.

Or check out the Appearing Rooms on the South Bank, an art installation created from the fountains here which spring into life, vanish and reappear again. Do come prepared with spare clothes, and kids need to wear a top in this particular splash zone!

For more things to do on the South Bank with kids , check out my tips

Enjoy some street theatre

One of the great joys of London is simply wandering around, seeing what’s on and discovering something new – although if you’re visiting London with toddlers and preschoolers, a specific goal is often better than an aimless wander to see what you see.

So head for Covent Garden and the South Bank , where there’s almost always something to entertain. At Covent Garden, the street performers audition for the coveted slots here, so you might spot anything from magic tricks to music.

At the South Bank, you could stumble across anything from a festival to a temporary beach – but even if there’s nothing particular taking place, the pedestrianised bankside is lovely for a walk (with high walls so you’re not going to lose toddlers into the Thames), the little playground of Jubilee gardens and the Golden carousel just beyond.

Kew Gardens

With 300 acres to explore, it quite simply takes years to see all of Kew Gardens – my daughter’s first visit came at a few weeks old, and I’ve lost track of how many times we’ve been back since… but we still regularly discover something new in this corner of west London.

The children’s playground here is fantastic: inspired by themes like light and earth, there’s everything from water play to climbing and mini trampolines that’s huge fun, and fits well with your surroundings.

You’ll also find regular family trails and child-friendly activities during school holidays; previous ones have included a Beano-themed event and another themed around Shaun the Sheep .

Add in endless space to run around, other unexpected highlights like the dragons on the pagoda and a carved statue of a bear, the humming Hive installation, plus some very good ice cream, and it’s a lovely day out at any time of year.

Tickets cost from £12 for adults off-peak, £4 for children aged four to 16. Under fours enter free. If you’re visiting at busy times, it’s worth prebooking tickets including entry to the children’s garden playground , as there are limited numbers and timed slots, but at quiet times you should be able to get them on the day..

Read my tips for visiting Kew Gardens with kids

London Wetland Centre

Just across the river from Hammersmith, the lovely London Wetland Centre at Barnes is another fun day out with preschoolers and toddlers in London.

As well as paths through the wetlands, you’ll find regular family events here too – for example giant Lego sculptures have appeared on several occasions – as well as toddler friendly activities like pond dipping, plus a very fun playground with tunnels to scramble through and more water play (so spare clothes are a good plan).

It’s also home to a pair of short-clawed Asian otters: often hard to spot outside feeding time, you’ll see them scampering around when food appears, playfully pestering staff with an affectionate nibble on their wellies if they’re being slow with the fish, and darting and frolicking in the water.

Tickets cost from £17 for adults, from £11 for children aged four and up. Under fours go free and there are family tickets available.

One of the first things you see as you step off the boat at Greenwich pier or out of Cutty Sark DLR, a visit to the  historic clipper ship  makes a really unusual day out with a preschooler.

It’s another option that’s better with slightly older kids than toddlers, not least because of the journey to Greenwich (unless you happen to be staying there), although it’s perfect to combine with a boat trip along the Thames.

If you do fancy making a day of it in Greenwich , head to the National Maritime Museum as well – it’s free to enter, and kids can play with the interactive great map , while preschoolers will enjoy the Sea Things gallery

There are children’s trails to follow around the Cutty Sark but you can also wander through the ship peeking inside cabins, discovering the cargo she carried, plus various interactive displays including a chance to try sailing a virtual ship (harder than it looks!)

Best of all, you can explore right from the copper-bottomed hull to the deck (watch out for the carved monkey). Get discounted tickets via tiqets using my code MUMMYTRAVELS6  

Read what we thought of a visit to the  Cutty Sark with a preschooler .

Go to the theatre

The West End is rightfully famous for its theatre, but there’s plenty for younger visitors to enjoy as well, with great toddler-friendly shows and some amazing children’s theatres.

The Little Angel Theatre in Islington has some fabulous puppet and marionette shows, which even the youngest kids will be mesmerised by, while the Unicorn Theatre near London Bridge has shows aimed at mini theatregoers aged six months and up.

In south-west London, the Rose Theatre in Kingston often has adaptations of Julia Donaldson books, while the Polka Theatre in Wimbledon is also hugely child-friendly.

But you’ll find performances in central London as well: at the Theatre Royal Haymarket , the Tiger Who Came To Tea has been a regular summer option. Watch out for Kids Week too (which actually lasts for a month in August) with free child seats, or shows based on Julia Donaldson books.

And most excitingly for older preschoolers, Frozen the Musical is on at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane until September 2024 – minimum age is 4+ and it’s recommended for 6+ though.

Tips for visiting London with toddlers and preschoolers

• Don’t pack too much in – with younger kids, you can easily fill a day with one attraction and a chance to play in the parks or playgrounds, or some low-key sightseeing like an open-top bus tour.
• Limit your travelling – London is a big city, so you could easily find yourself needing to criss-cross back and forth on the tube to pack everything in, which is tiring for littler ones. If you can spend the day in one area or within walking distance, it’s a lot easier.
• Bus or tube? If you have a buggy, be prepared to carry it down stairs in a lot of tube stations, as there are limited lifts – check out my tips for using the London Underground with toddlers . Buses can be more straightforward but you might have to fold your buggy and there’s a limit to how many are allowed on.
• Stay somewhere central – if you’re visiting London with toddlers, it can help to choose a more central location to stay in. First, it avoids long travel times in and back at the start and end of the day, and if your kids need a bit of time to chill out after a busy day exploring, it’s possible to head back for some down time, even a nap, then venture out later.
• Download the Flush app , which tells you the locations of the nearest public toilets – very handy when you have to find somewhere urgently.

*First published 2021, last updated 2024*

PIN FOR LATER: THINGS TO DO IN LONDON WITH TODDLERS AND PRESCHOOLERS

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Main image/London Zoo/Paddington bench/Natural History Museum/British Museum/Horniman/London Transport Museum/London Eye/South Bank fountains/Kew Children’s playground/London Wetland Centre/Cutty Sark copyright MummyTravels; City Cruises boat courtesy of City Cruises; rabbit/Diana Memorial playground courtesy of Depositphotos

Award-winning family travel blogger and mum to the mini traveller, aka Minnie. Together we've visited Europe, America, the Caribbean, Africa and Asia, tried a cruise and a road trip, and survived countless long-haul trips. London (UK) based. Serious beach habit.

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23 (Not Stressful) Best Things to Do with Toddlers in London

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If you’re the parent of a toddler, you’ll know that 99% of the time, taking them around a major city is basically your worst nightmare, and you’re probably searching for the best things to do in London with toddlers while muttering something like, “so help me God.”

Navigating London can be a real commitment for anyone, much less someone dragging around a small child who has just learned to walk without crashing their face into the pavement.

But, parents, fear not!

⭐️Editor’s choice!⭐️

The best thing to do in London with toddlers is KidZania , a child-sized “city” full of educational fun, dress-up, and interactive experiences.

>> Click here to book in advance

London is super toddler friendly, and I’ve put together a list of the most toddler-friendly things to do in London so that you can focus on enjoying your time together.

You can also check out the best things to do in London with kids if you have older ones too, as well as this London packing list for families to make sure you have the right gear.

At the end, I’ll also talk about the best ways to get around London with a toddler so that you can decide your best course of action when it comes to cabs, the tube, walking and more.

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The Absolute Must-Knows (from a Londoner)

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Best Parks and Playgrounds for Toddlers in London

While I was never a toddler in London, I have actually babysat many toddlers in London and these are my go-to parks for when I need them to burn off some energy while I get some fresh air and a break from watching 18 episodes of Peppa Pig.

In fact, if you’re visiting London in August or London in September when you have a good chance of having good weather, I would take the green spaces into account when you decide how many days to spend in London as you don’t want to have to miss these.

🛎 Still looking for somewhere to stay in London?

My favorite hotel in London for all visitors is the Strand Palace ( click here to check prices ). ⭐⭐⭐⭐

1. Hyde Park Pirate Ship

While this park is actually called the “Diana Memorial Playground,” many people just refer it to is as the “pirate ship” because that is the main attraction in one of the best playgrounds for toddlers in London ever.

I purposefully go out of my way to take them there because I think it’s just the coolest thing ever.

Right near Kensington Palace, this playground has loads of playing equipment including wooden climbing structures, a massive pirate ship surrounded by sand with lots of nooks and crannies, tree carvings and a sensory trail – not to mention it’s in Hyde Park where you’ve also got Serpentine Lake and lots of other toddler-friendly things to see.

The park was inspired by the stories of Peter Pan and encouraging children to follow their imaginations, and it’s one of the most popular playgrounds in all of London.

You will be on your toes with this one, as the large nature of it means you’ll need to follow around your toddler and keep a close eye on them.

Only kids up to the age of 12 are allowed in to make sure that the environment is safe for all and you don’t have teenagers stepping on your toddler as he or she tries to play.

Make sure to get in line early for this one on a sunny day as there is a queue to enter the playground that is based off of the “1 in and 1 out” rule, and it can get very busy.

IMPORTANT: are you coming to the UK from abroad?

In case you’re reading this from outside the UK and will be a foreign visitor here, you need to know these 2 things to stay safe and save money.

• Travel insurance – you need it when going overseas! I use this site to get the best quotes and purchase my packages from. Do not skip this – having medical coverage abroad as well as other coverage in case of missed flights, lost luggage, etc is essential. As I said, I have never gone wrong using this site .
• International debit cards without fees – do not get stuck paying extortionate foreign fees when using your card abroad (and the UK is almost all card these days). I use the Wise debit and travel card which you can apply and learn more about here .

2. Holland Park

Holland Park has two great places for toddlers in London depending on what kind of activity you want to do with them.

If you want to chill out and just have them watch the fish in a pond, check out the Japanese gardens in Holland Park for a really serene landscape with lots of fish and a peacock wandering around.

If you want them to get active so they’ll sleep at night, try the adventure playground which has an enclosed play area for toddlers so you don’t have to worry about them running off or getting lost.

Holland Park is free to enter and in a beautiful part of London, right near High Street Kensington Station.

3. Regent’s Park, Primrose Hill

While Primrose Hill isn’t a playground as such, Regent’s Park (and specifically Primrose Hill) is a wonderful place to just spread out a picnic blanket and look at the London skyline.

With a toddler in tow, it’s important to bring some bubbles or other things to keep them occupied, but there is plenty of space for them to run around.

This is also one of the best things to do in London with toddlers if your toddler just happens to be worn out and you want a peaceful place to sit and let them snooze while you feel like you’re “doing something” in London.

4. Coram’s Fields

Situated in Bloomsbury, Coram’s Fields is one of the best places for toddlers in London because of the seven acres of play space and the “no adults without a child” rule that keeps this a kid-friendly spot.

Toddlers can of course enjoy the regular playground equipment and the city farm, including the wandering goats, but they can also take advantage of drop-in sessions for children under 5 that are run by a knowledgeable preschool teacher who guides kids and parents in both physical and creative activities.

From making shakers and rattles to singing favorite songs to “tummy time,” toddlers and parents alike will get a lot of a trip to Coram’s Fields.

5. St. James Park and Playground

For an iconic experience, bring your toddler to St. James Park where you can see Buckingham Palace just at the edge of it and enjoy the blooming flowers and bustling atmosphere that makes you truly feel like you’re in the heart of London without all of the stress.

St. James Park also has a playground and climbing structure that you can accompany your toddler on.

There are older children allowed in this playground, so just ensure that you’re out of the way enough to keep your toddler safe and play away!

Best Museums for Toddlers in London

You wouldn’t always think of a museum being the best thing to do for a toddler in London.

After all, what 2 year old wants to look at ancient artifacts?

Basically none of them, and if yours does then consider yourself….lucky?

Anyway, London museums know that your little ones may be in tow when you check out some of the city’s most popular educational attractions, so they’ve made sure that toddlers also have things to do!

Check out the top toddler friendly museums in London to see where to start your adventures.

6. Science Museum

Of all the museums in London, my top pick for toddlers is the Science Museum.

Head down to the basement area where you’ll find the “Garden,” a wonderful play place with water play, soft toys and building blocks so your toddler can immerse themselves in the world of science at their own pace.

If you have an older toddler, they might also enjoy the play place geared at 4 to 8 year olds which has sound effects and electronic projections.

7. Natural History Museum

One of the things to look for in London museums for toddlers is one with interactive exhibits and not just rows and rows of glass cases.

The Natural History Museum is one such museum!

From dinosaur roars to the chance to journey into the center of the Earth, the Natural History Museum has worked had to not just be a standstill museum full of fossils, but also a living and breathing museum with lots of colourful and fascinating exhibits for kids.

There’s also a cool gift shop to keep them occupied for a few minutes while they look at dinosaur eggs and other stuffed animals.

You can also spend time wandering around the neighborhood of South Kensington before or after your visit, which is one of the safest places in London and gorgeous to look at.

8. Horniman Museum

The Horniman Museum really excels in its child-friendly nature with 16 acres of child-friendly places to play.

Toddlers will fall in love with its outdoor areas that includes a nature trail and hands-on object touching exhibits.

There’s also an aquarium which will keep them mesmerized as well as a nature base with interactive ways to explore the natural world.

The Horniman Museum is located in Forest Hill, so you’ll need to travel a bit out of Central London to get there, but it’s well worth the trip.

9. Museum of Childhood

Funnily enough, the Museum of Childhood is actually first and foremost geared towards adults who want to relive their own childhoods, but don’t worry – they’ve planned ahead and know that many adults will be bringing their own children.

For toddlers, there are interactive exhibits featuring toys and games at the Museum of Childhood, as well as drop-in activities including crafting and storytelling to get your toddler involved in some educational play.

10. National Maritime Museum

Head to Greenwich for a beautiful part of area of London to explore with toddlers as well as adults.

One of the best toddler friendly things to do in Greenwich is the National Maritime Museum , which, as the name suggests, is all about the history of seafaring and other sea and ship-related exhibits!

The best part for toddlers is the AHOY section, which features an interactive playplace where they can, climb, play, pretend to be on a ship and learn through age-appropriate exhibits.

11. London Transport Museum

One of my favorite museums in all of London, the London Transport Museum has fantastic things to do for families with toddlers including a playzone where they can pretend to fly a plane, drive a bus or be a tube engineer.

This is in addition to the numerous family-friendly play options available in the rest of the museum, including interactive exhibits and a family stamper trail where you have to collect all 13 stamps to win the game.

Little ones, with your help, can also climb aboard the lifesize London transport relics and sit in the driver’s seat for a view from above.

12. National Army Museum

You might not think of the National Army Museum as the first place to bring a toddler in London, but with its recent refurbishment, it’s become one of the top places for toddlers in London.

In addition to interactive play zones, there’s also a softplay area specifically for the younger crowd and themed activities and obstacle courses that the kids can run through and burn some energy on while you learn about the history of the Army and how it’s developed over the years.

Best Attractions for Toddlers in London

A trip to London wouldn’t be complete without some sightseeing.

You can still sightsee in London with toddlers, it just takes a bit of planning and you’ve got to know ahead of time that perhaps a one hour tour of Westminster Abbey won’t be for them.

But there are plenty of toddler friendly things in London to enjoy, listed below!

13. London Aquarium

Situated in London’s Southbank, the London Aquarium is a fantastic place for toddlers with its many fish and sea life exhibits and the chance to get face to face with some adorable creatures.

Like many aquariums, they also hold talks and activities throughout the day to keep the children engaged.

As it’s so close to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, it’s a great place to bring a toddler if other members of your party do want to go on a more educational walking tour of the area while you keep the kids entertained.

This is on my list of things not to do in London , but that applies to anyone not trying to entertain a toddler.

14. London Eye

The whole family, including toddlers, will love the London Eye.

I’ve written before about whether or not the London Eye is worth it, and for toddlers, I would conclude that absolutely it is!

While they may not appreciate exactly what they’re seeing out the pod, it enables you to get a bird’s eye view of London while also not worrying that they’re going to fall out or get lost, as there’s no escaping once you’re in your pod for the next 30 minutes as you rotate around the Eye and get to see lots of London landmarks.

You can also walk them to different parts of the pod as it rotates to give them something new to look at, and they’ll be enchanted by the automatic picture that’s taken at the end with a voice over the loudspeaker encouraging you to smile!

15. KidZania London

When you need an indoor entertainment facility that recreates some of London’s landmarks and lets your toddlers engage in some age-appropriate play, try KidZania London .

It’s the premier child-friendly playplace in London that basically allows them to pretend they’re in all kinds of different situations.

They can be a shopkeeper, a policeman, a bus driver, and more.

Let them play dress up, get to know other kids, and generally explore this indoor city.

16. Musical on the West End – The Lion King

If you want to see some theatre while in London with your toddler, you should choose something that is going to keep them entertained.

A musical is just the trick!

I would recommend the Lion King for a show that has lots of moving parts, colorful costumes and constantly changing scenery, but just make sure your toddler can handle the loud noises and general atmosphere of a musical before booking.

If you want to try it out, you can book on somewhere like Last Minute to get the cheapest seats possible in case you find it necessary to leave halfway through or your toddler isn’t able to handle it.

17. River Cruise

You don’t need to be a certain age to enjoy a River Cruise down the Thames!

Enjoy a slow-moving boat ride with the whole family as you see various landmarks while floating past and letting your toddler feel the wind and mist in their hair.

There are lots of river cruise operators, but I would recommend one with a more basic sightseeing experience like this one , not a RIB boat that’s going to rip through the Thames at too many miles per hour for your little one to enjoy!

Start slow and then, if they take well to the boat experience, build up to more immersive and longer experiences.

18. London Zoo

The London Zoo is a fantastic place for toddlers, as it’s centrally located in Regent’s Park so it’s easy to get to and the number of animals who live here is astounding for a city zoo.

Get up close to the giraffes, watch the meerkats run back and forth, head into the sloth exhibit or visit the tigers.

There are child-friendly activities held at the zoo on a daily basis, and particularly when schools are out, you can always find something to do at the London Zoo with a small child.

Zookeepers and staff are well-versed in working with children, so your toddler can feel comfortable asking questions or just generally making friends in their own language with the keepers.

Other Things to Do in London with Toddlers

I’ve compiled a few more options of things to do in London with toddlers if you want some more ideas, including gardens, places to eat, and where to walk around in London with a toddler.

19. Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens are absolutely massive and have everything from a little railroad ride to climbing apparatuses to places to just sit and chill while having a picnic.

While the emphasis is on gardening, greenhouses and general “green thumb” type activities, Kew Gardens is also well-suited to toddlers with the amount of space there is to run and play.

Check out the interactive children’s gardens with exhibits just for them, as well as the kid-friendly menus at the cafes and restaurants.

20. Children’s Zoo at Battersea Park

If you don’t feel up to the grand scale of the London Zoo, try the Children’s Zoo at Battersea Park which is more of a small petting zoo that lets kids learn more about farm animals in a safe environment.

The zoo was designed specifically for children, so you can rest assured that there are play places and not too many areas to lose them in – it’s small, quaint, and perfect sized for a toddler!

21. Take them Out to Eat at a Kid-Friendly Restaurant

You’ve got to eat when in London!

Sure, you can pack your picnics and bring food from the local grocery store that you know they’ll eat, but sometimes you want to treat yourselves and bring your toddler to a restaurant with you.

Not all restaurants in London are toddler friendly, but the following ones are (and they’re chains, so you’ll find them in multiple locations across the city).

Giraffe has an amazing kids menu that keeps their tastes and interests in mind (ie, nothing fancy).

It’s also inexpensive, as they know your toddler isn’t going to eat the world probably.

Options for mains including things like pasta and tomato sauce, chicken burgers, sausage and beans, and fish fingers and fries.

For dessert, they can keep it simple with ice cream, a chocolate brownie, or some churros if they’re feeling adventurous!

Ask Italian

In the mood for Italian food?

Ask Italian caters to toddlers with their easy-to-read child’s menu that features basic pasta and pizza options.

They’ve also got plenty of “make your own” options, which encourages kids to choose exactly what they want on their pizza or pasta, right down to the pasta type, so they feel in control of their meal and get exactly what they’ll eat.

If hamburgers and milkshakes are your thing, take the kids to Byron where they can enjoy the mini menu featuring things like macaroni and cheese, chicken nuggets and hamburgers.

They can even get a mini milkshake to finish off their meal to stop them from indulging in yours!

22. Wander Around Borough Market

If you’re not quite sure what you want to eat, take your toddlers in London to Borough Market where you can wander around the bustling stalls and try some samples or pick out your ready-to-eat food there.

This is a great atmosphere because it’s busy enough that your toddler isn’t going to cause any problems if they get a bit louder than you’d want, but there is also enough space to spread out and corners to duck into if any real meltdowns occur.

Oh, and it’s delicious and one of the best markets in the city, toddler or not.

23. Walk the Thames Path

If you need a bit of a walk in the fresh air, the Thames walking path runs alongside the river Thames and is a great way to take your toddler for a bit of a stroll.

You can just walk certain chunks of it, or even walk for a few minutes and then find a bench to feed them lunch on, but it will make you feel as if you’re really seeing London instead of just doing things to cater to your toddler.

How To Get Around London with a Toddler

While you’re planning your trip to London with a toddler and figuring out all of the best things to do in London with a toddler, don’t forget to think about your mode of transportation.

London is a big city, and you don’t want to plan to get from Tower Bridge to the Houses of Parliament in 10 minutes on foot and then left realizing it actually takes an hour and nobody wants to be doing that with a toddler.

Most people get around by tube or bus, which you can definitely do with a toddler as they go free.

Check out more information on how to use the tube in London , as well as getting around London and using Oyster cards .

Just try to avoid rush hours in the morning and evening, as you may find yourself uncomfortably crammed in with nowhere to sit down and this can be distressing for your child.

Another option is to take an Uber or black cab when you feel your child won’t cope with public transportation, though this will be more expensive.

And finally, plan your route ahead of time if bringing a stroller into London, as not all tube stations are accessible and you may find yourself really struggling with it if it’s too big for you to fold up and carry by yourself while also making sure your toddler doesn’t run out into traffic or fall down a flight of stairs or what have you.

What else should I not miss in London?

If you’re visiting London soon, here’s a very brief rundown of a few of my other favorites to make sure you don’t miss anything!

• Hidden London Walking Tour – this tour is the absolute best if you want to see London in a different light and uncover hidden nooks, crannies, and histories that you won’t get on your normal, run-of-the-mill London walking tour. Click here to check prices and book.
• Historical Westminster Walking Tour with Churchill War Rooms – if you’re a history buff or even mildly interested in all of the insane things that have happened in London, particular during the wars, you have to book this tour which is an absolute bargain for the tour + entry to the Churchill War Rooms (basically two must-dos in one). Click here to check prices and book .
• Cutest London Afternoon Tea on a Bus – want to see the sights and enjoy afternoon tea at the same time on the upper deck? Yes, absolutely you do. This afternoon tea is a real delight and helps you get out and about while also putting your pinkies up. Click here to check prices and book.

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

1 thought on “23 (Not Stressful) Best Things to Do with Toddlers in London”

Thanks for the tips- will try and check out the playground at Holland Park with my little one this weekend hopefully

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8 totally awesome things to do in london with toddlers.

Believe it or not, but toddlers are people (which I personally struggle with, as my own toddler sometimes seems to be more of an alien from another Galaxy). And being people, they are as susceptible to the charm of the coolest city in the world – London.

If you are planning to visit London with a toddler in your party if you are looking for places to take toddlers in London, here is my list of the best things to do in London with toddlers. Trust me, you can actually enjoy your trip to London if you are willing to drop some sights and prepare to open your mind to some toddler activities London has.

I have a general tip: in my experience, there is a way to trick a toddler into liking something – you must like it yourself. But not just like quietly, but love it passionately and outspokenly, half measures won’t do. Nor will the acting, so prepare to put all your heart into it and start sharing your enthusiasm on taking a tube during the rush hour at Oxford street. It’s best if the rest of the family joins in.

Table of Contents

• 1 So, what are the best things to do in London with toddlers?
• 2.1 Here is the list of especially awesome playgrounds in Central London:
• 3 2. Food Shopping in London
• 4.1 Here are some restaurants, which are particularly good for toddlers (and pretty awesome for their parents too):
• 5.1 Best museums for toddlers London:
• 6 5. Shopping in London
• 7 6. Animals in London
• 8.1 Best parks in London for toddlers:
• 9 8. Sightseeing in London with Toddlers
• 10.0.1 Using a buggy in London:
• 10.0.2 Backpack for your toddler:
• 10.0.3 Toddler-friendly guided tours in London:
• 10.0.4 Toddler-friendly accommodation in London:
• 10.1 Liked this post? Pin it!

So, what are the best things to do in London with toddlers?

Here is my little guide to London for toddlers and their parents.

1. Best Playgrounds in London

If the weather is good, you can actually just read this part and skip the rest of the post. Because after all the activity toddlers need is free play, and the playgrounds of London can offer that. At the same time the high health and safety standards ensure that your little one will not kill himself, while you blink for a second – as it might be an issue in my home Eastern Europe (our playgrounds are Darwin’s partner in natural selection). So when I thought of things to do in London with a 2-year-old, playgrounds was one of the first things to come to my mind.

One of the things I liked most about toddler playgrounds in London is how democratic they are. You can go to the ones which are considered “the best toddler playgrounds in London” and will be the first to appear in Google search, for example, the one in St James’ Park or Coram’s Fields. But wherever you are staying, you will find one nearby, and it can turn out even better.

Remember what I said about the toddler being more of an alien? This is why I keep saying that – because the logic of my son is completely different from my own. In my experience, Mark loved the one right next to our accommodation the most. It was a very simple one with two swings, one slide and a little hanging bridge. But because of its size, it was very manageable for him, so he could play without any help – and if you are a parent, you will know the feeling when you have to lift your child on a slide 152 times in one half of an hour.

Here is the list of especially awesome playgrounds in Central London:

As I said, just make sure you explore what is local and convenient for you. Remember also that the central ones tend to get extremely crowded on sunny weekends and Bank Holidays.

Hyde Park Pirate Ship – the most awesome kids’ playground London has, with a huge pirate ship, little water stream, sand, benches and picnic area. Oh, they serve good coffee right next to it, so it’s a win-win! St James’ Park – heard some great reviews of it, but did not like it. Almost impossible for the toddler to fully use it without the help of an adult. Plus there are zones, where you can’t see your little one from the bench. Holland Park – Playground with sand surface, pretty good slides and swings and the best of all: a little digger, which a child can operate on his or her own. I think this actually was Mark’s favourite one.

2. Food Shopping in London

Yes, there are so many talks about English food being the worst. But I find that this is not true for the supermarkets. The selection of organic food, fruits and vegetables is one of the best I have encountered, and the prices for some products are even lower than in my home Eastern Europe (which is supposed to be cheap).

Usually, you will have a good choice of berries and exotic fruits and vegetables of decent quality even off-season. If you find eating in the restaurants with a toddler too pricey or too much hassle, then I’m sure that you will find pretty much anything in most of the London supermarkets. When I lived in London, I was rather poor, so here is a tip I learnt: at the end of the day you can find a lot of good quality food reduced up to 90%. And if not, there is Whole Foods – the healthy+tasty eating paradise, although a rather expensive one.

You can use your time to introduce your toddler to the new tastes and senses, making it one of the most fun activities in London during your stay. It was there Mark has tasted ripe mangoes, coconut flour cake and litchi. Until we go somewhere, where those things grow naturally, this is our best place to get them in Europe.

There is one more food-related idea. If you come from a place, where ice-cream cars do not exist, remember that they do very much exist in London. When Mark first saw one passing, he thought it was an ambulance. When I explained the concept, his eyes widened: a car and an ice-cream (two best things!) in one? You should have seen him paying the ice-cream seller and getting his classic Flake99 – it was the happiest toddler in the whole world. And I could tick it off as a cultural experience.

3. Kid-Friendly Restaurants London

On our family hike in Northern Italy, we enjoyed some amazing pizza and pasta. In Crete Mark tasted fresh juicy oranges and yoghurt. In Israel, he loved hummus and falafel. But London has it all! And in addition to “it all”, London also has great restaurants, where your toddler is not frown at, but treated with respect as a full-righted customer.

Just choose the style of food you like and check, if there is any place available, which serves kids menu. Toddlers can be very picky eaters, but being served a menu to chose from, and then being brought the food to them by the waiter can be pretty exciting for a little one. And importantly, it might give you a chance to enjoy your own meal in peace.

On one of my visits we went out to an Italian restaurant and I was alone with Mark. I was dreading a table covered in pasta, turned chairs and angry customers, plus staying hungry myself. But Mark was enjoying himself, occupied by his starter of olives, nibbling on the second, and dipping his nose in his own (finally!) babyccino.

On other days we also tasted some perfect Greek yoghurt, falafels, curry and kebabs. And there is such thing as gastronomic tourism, after all. Or just one of those fun activities to do in London.

Here are some restaurants, which are particularly good for toddlers (and pretty awesome for their parents too):

Giraffe – Kids-friendly world food experience. Nando’s – Comfort food, tortillas, fried chicken and other guilty pleasures. Ask Italian – Well, Italian. Pizza and pasta, great ice-creams and coffee. Special baby three-course menu. What more do you need? Leon – I needed to add it. It’s my favourite restaurant of all times and just pure awesomeness. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian home-style food and amazing cakes.

4. Museums for Toddlers

On a rainy day in London (which are in abundance) try one of the so many museums. Most of the biggest museums in London are amazing and most of them are free. And many of those museums can be very interesting for both toddlers and grown-ups, making it probably the best of the indoor activities London has to offer.

If your child is into space rockets and other means of transport you don’t know much about yourself (that’s my case!) try the Science Museum. In addition to the permanent exhibition, in the Science Museum London toddlers will also find special “scientific” play areas with magnets, space games and other activities, IMAX cinema and many more. The museum also has special apps to help your little one (and you!) to explore.

Are there any toddlers who are not into the dinosaurs? If there are, I haven’t met any. The Natural History Museum has a special Dinosaur Trail, as well as butterflies section, educational garden with live flowers, earthquake and volcanoes tour and Creepy Crawlies gallery with insects, bugs and spiders – ok, the last one does not sound appealing at all.

Other than that, there are amazing art galleries and history museums, which also offer interactive activities to do with toddlers, so you can actually catch some glimpses of the expositions you would like to see yourself. For me, visiting museums is one of the best things to do in London with toddlers.

Best museums for toddlers London:

Science Museum – One of the best places to visit in London with toddlers Natural History Museum – Another idea to add to your list of indoor activities for toddlers in London National Gallery – Your toddler can try painting, playing quizzes and other fun art-oriented activities. British Museum – Visit their website for the list of activities and downloadable materials.

I’m leaving out the Imperial War Museum and Army Museum on purpose because I think there is nothing more stupid and absurd than children (or adults) playing with or admiring guns.

5. Shopping in London

For many people, London is the capital of shopping. Should you stop with this after you had a baby? Or after your baby turned into an always-run-in-the-opposite-direction toddler? I think there are ways to make sure both parents and kids stay happy. And also this can be another of those London indoor activities for toddlers to use on a rainy day.

Of course, I cannot take my toddler to my favourite small local ceramics, unless he is asleep in his buggy. But Mark actually likes choosing his clothes, so I can continue taking him to shops like Uniqlo, Matalan, Gap and others, as long as it’s not Saturday afternoon on Oxford Street.

Many shops in London are actually very child-friendly and would have some play zones and toilets. And if you are into shopping for some unique designs or vintage, try visiting Spitafields Market, Portobello Market or Covent Garden.

6. Animals in London

Funnily enough, Mark saw more animals in Central London, than in the village-like district of Vilnius, where we live. Around our house, we have ducks in the pond, and once in a while, a hedgehog strolls by. In London, we felt surrounded by animals.

In almost any park you will meet some brave squirrels, who do not mind crawling on your arm as long as you offer them some nuts. In any park with a little pond (which again is practically any park in London), you will find geese, ducks and swans. If you are willing to go further to a bigger park-like Richmond or Hampstead Heath, then you can watch the deer grazing right in front of you. And if you happen to walk by a trash container at night, there is a chance to see some dumpster-diving foxes.

In addition to all of these, you have also numerous city farms, petting zoos and bigger zoos.

Here is just a little list of them to give you some ideas.

London Zoo – probably the most known of the London attractions for toddlers Battersea Park Children’s Zoo – although pricey, but one of the best family activities London can offer. Hackney City Farm – one of the fun things for toddlers to do in London.

7. Parks for Toddlers in London

London is the only city, where I kept Mark on the leash (like this  Little Life Disney Mickey Mouse Backpack – Red ) on many of our tours, as creepy as it may look. And I actually thanked the inventor almost every minute, because London traffic (and I’m speaking of both human and transport) can be much busy and unpredictable. But with so many parks there is plenty of opportunities for your toddler to run wild (which they love doing).

London parks provide perfect locations for using a scooter, a bike or just running around. If you are there on a sunny day, then you can also consider having a picnic. Either bring your own food and a picnic blanket, or pop into the nearest store, which will have a choice of salads, sandwiches and pre-cut vegetables and dips, and rent a deck chair in the park to picnic in style.

I especially love London parks in spring , but they can be beautiful at any season.

Best parks in London for toddlers:

Hyde Park Holland Park St James’ Park Regent’s Park (a little note: this is one of the most beautiful parks, but unfortunately it doesn’t have any playground for toddlers)

8. Sightseeing in London with Toddlers

Unbelievable as it may sound, you can actually squeeze some sightseeing into your trip. The cheat strategy is to do the main part, while your toddler is asleep after all the running and exploring, but there are also things which can be interesting for toddlers. In Mark’s case these are fountains, tractors and bell towers.

You know your toddler best, so plan the trip accordingly. I could do some two-hours tour with Mark, making sure we see a fountain or a bell tower in equal (and rather short intervals) of time. We both pretty much enjoyed it, and it made me think that sightseeing can actually be another idea of where to take toddlers in London. If you dare to try, here is a good example of an itinerary for 3 days in London .

I will not be able to help you with a list here, as the list of sights in London is endless. Some of the most toddler-friendly ones are for sure T he London Eye , Sea Life or Tower of London . Alternatively, there is always an option to jump on a Hop On Hop Off bus and enjoy the view.

I’m sure by the end of this post you are already full of knowledge and courage, and will for sure know how to make your trip to London with a toddler a blast! And I also hope that although you came to this guide to the toddler-friendly London with a question: “What to do with toddlers in London?”, you left with some ideas of some fun things you can do there too.

General Tips:

Using a buggy in london:.

London is a rather buggy-friendly city. You have ramps in most locations. Despite this, you will want to keep your buggy light, especially if you want to use the tube, as on many stations there are no lifts. If you are looking for a good travel buggy for your child, have a look at my guide here .

Backpack for your toddler:

And of course, remember to get a backpack for your toddler (with or without the leash!).

Toddler-friendly guided tours in London:

What about a boat trip? While toddlers are not the best walkers, most of them would really have fun on a boat. And in the meantime, you get to relax AND see some more of the city. Win-win!

Toddler-friendly accommodation in London:

If you are looking for a place to stay in London, here are some tips on getting the best deals from Booking.com .

Budget: Royal London Hotel By Saba offers great facilities and relatively good location in Hammersmith for a decent price. Check out the room prices on Booking.com .

Mid-range: The Ampersand Hotel has a play-room, library and a full-size ping-pong table! What more can kids (and their parents) want?

High-end: Because after running around all the city of London catching your toddler, you deserve a good rest. Check out the prices for The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences (voted the best child-friendly hotel in London) here on Booking.com .

Or check some other deals here:

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merrygoroundslowly

Heya, I'm Ana, the writer of this blog. I live in Brussels and  I travel mostly around Europe with my husband and our two kids. As the blog name suggest, I travel quite slowly with many stops for food, relaxing and noticing small details.

13 thoughts on “ 8 Totally Awesome Things to Do in London with Toddlers ”

My kids are 6 and 9 (so not toddlers) but this list is perfect for them as well! They reallly want to go to London – I think some of the youtubers they like are from there ?

Oh this new generation! :)))

These are great tips – even for grown ups like me. I’m with you on leaving out the military museum for kids ? Thanks for sharing!

Oh, I’m happy there are more like-minded people here.

Ana, loved your article, especially that part about museums and parks! Our family loves spending time outdoors and learning new things. I’ll bookmark your post to get back to it later when we are on our way to London, what may happen later this year! ?

I’m glad it was useful! Wish you a good trip to London!

I bet travelling with toddlers isn’t easy, but I love that you’re still encouraging it – especially in places like London! So many people think that once you have children travel just has to stop, but that’s so not the case. Good on you XX

I would be so sad to stop travelling once I’ve had Mark. Luckily, it feels that I actually have even more freedom to travel, as I switched to freelance work and have more days off to do it with him.

Hi Ana, Your post made me miss London so much. You are right, London is well designed and has a lot of ramps for a buggy which must be great for parents. I’m excited to see you guys saw a red squirrel. We’ve been missing those ❤

Yes, red squirrels are so rare these days, especially in the UK. I also love the ramps and how buggy-friendly the city is – that is until you have to use the tube, and then it’s suddenly hostile to buggies 🙂

I have plans of visiting UK soon and your post is God sent ? So well written and organised. Thanks ?

I’m glad it was useful!

I’ve never been to the Army museum so I can’t comment about that specifically but suggesting visiting the Imperial War Museum inevitably exposes children to the fetishisation of guns either exposes the fact you’ve never actually been or an inability to comprehend that the museum is about the history, conduct and experience of war both to its protagonists and victims and is hence – overwhelmingly – sensitive to the brutality of armed conflict. Anyone who has been round the Holocaust section or the WW1 exhibition would be struggling with any concept that a toddler would somehow be exposed to the glamour of guns. It’s not a helpful – or accurate – comment about the museum. If your child *happens* to think a fighter aircraft or V1 rocket or tank is exciting it’s entirely up to the parent to put it into context.

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The ultimate guide to visiting London with kids

Mar 15, 2024 • 9 min read

Make the most of your family holiday with this guide to travel in London with kids © Ahmani Vidal / Getty Images

London is an expensive city to visit and one that’s large and sometimes difficult to navigate. But, it's also packed with fascinating historic sights, bags of culture, world-class museums, parks and wide-open spaces with excellent playgrounds, and plenty of things to occupy children of all ages.

The permanent collections at many museums and art galleries are free to enter (donations welcome) and they generally offer some kind of audio guide or experience aimed specifically at families. For older children, London’s Harry Potter connections tend to be popular, and with so many different exhibitions and theater performances, there is something to align with the passions of every tween and teen. 

Here's everything you need to know about visiting the English capital with tots in tow.

Is London good for kids?

In a word, yes! Londoners may not seem particularly kid-friendly at first, but if you need a hand carrying a stroller up an unexpected flight of stairs, someone will almost always stop to lend a hand. 

While central London can feel hectic during peak hour, with workers rushing to and from work (or in the height of summer's peak visitor season when popular attractions will be crowded) London does have plenty of pockets of serenity. There are parks and gardens throughout the city to take a break with kids. Get to popular sights early in the day (the earlier the better) to avoid queues, and note that some sight require pre-booking even if they're free. If you're looking for somewhere to eat, loads of major chain restaurants (and pubs) offer good-value children's menus with a drink and dessert included.

Where is best in London for kids

London’s South Bank  offers endless family entertainment. In the summer months bring a change of clothes, as your kids are likely to make a beeline for  Southbank Centre 's fountains. The London Eye provides high-up views over the river to Big Ben and beyond, and the  Sea Life London Aquarium , with a shark tunnel and penguin area, is particularly popular with younger kids. Shrek’s Adventure is a 90-minute theme park experience centered around the fairy tales in the Shrek movies. If you have teens who enjoy being scared, they will get a kick out of the creative presentation of gory historical events at the London Dungeon .

Heading further east, learn about the role HMS Belfast played in WWII while climbing down below the river’s water level and shuffling along tiny corridors (not easily done with toddlers or babies in prams). When you get hungry, head to  Borough Market  to discover a wealth of food options from kid-friendly fish 'n' chips and ice cream to paella and oysters. 

Greenwich in southeast London is a small area with good options for kids of all ages. It can be reached by train or the DLR, but it’s much more fun to take the Thames Clipper from central London to Greenwich Pier. Younger kids are likely to love the massive adventure playground in Greenwich Park, with sand, water play, and plenty to climb on.

Learn what life was like on board a 19th-century tea clipper at the Cutty Sark . For even more naval experiences, head to the National Maritime Museum (there’s a great gallery aimed at children aged seven and under called Ahoy!). The Royal Observatory on the hill offers a chance for older kids to explore space and time. Grab lunch at a stall in the food market , or head for one of the many chain restaurants.

Best things to do in London with babies and toddlers

Tour london's top parks and playgrounds.

London is a surprisingly green city, with a lot of large open spaces . Regent’s Park is the biggest and most elaborate of central London’s many Royal Parks. Among its many attractions are London Zoo, Regent’s Canal , an ornamental lake, and grass pitches where locals meet to play sports. Rent a pedal boat  on the Serpentine in Hyde Park , and run free in one of London’s best playgrounds , Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground, in nearby Kensington Gardens .

Here kids will be delighted by the large pirate ship, waterplay, and sandpits. A wander through St James’s Park  is worthwhile for its lovely gardens and great views of London icons, such as the London Eye and Buckingham Palace .

Come face-to-face with a dino at the Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum  is a colossal and magnificent building housing 80 million specimens from the natural world, with displays on everything from the human body to rare fossils and gems. Hintze Hall, at the center of the museum, is home to an awe-inspiring blue whale skeleton that hangs from the ceiling. This is also where pre-schoolers seek out Andy's Clock, the magical time-traveling device from CBeebies TV show  Andy's Prehistoric Adventures .

The Dinosaur Gallery is packed with info and skeletons of many different dinosaurs and is a big hit with kids. The absolute highlight here is the animatronic T-rex that swings its colossal tail and flexes its jaws while roaring at the gathered crowd (beware: it can be genuinely frightening for little people). The museum is also home to the ever-popular Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibit, showcasing the fragile natural beauty of our planet through 100 photos.

Learn about conservation at London Zoo

Regent’s Park is home to the oldest zoo in the world , dating from 1828. The emphasis nowadays is firmly on conservation, breeding and education, with fewer animals and bigger enclosures. Highlights include Land of the Lions, Gorilla Kingdom, Night Life, Penguin Beach and the walk-through In with the Lemurs. There are regular feeding sessions and talks, various experiences are available, such as Keeper for a Day, and you can even spend the night in one of nine Gir Lion Lodge cabins.

Best things to do in London with kids

Have a hands-on experience in the science museum's best galleries.

The Science Museum  in Kensington  brings themes such as space, flight and climate change to life with a series of hands-on exhibits and virtual displays. Get close to a space module, track the history of aviation, and learn about the importance of ice in the Antarctic. For younger children aged three to six, head to  The Garden  in the basement. This free interactive gallery allows for construction with blocks and cranes, and sensory exploration with sound, touch, and water play.

Those aged six and above will be enthralled by the liquids, magnets, smoke and light that they can play with in the different zones of  Wonderlab on the top floor. Science Museum "Explainers" will merrily chat with youngsters about anything from how a bubble is formed to how planets move around in the solar system, as well as running live demos and experiments showing science in action.

Go to family-friendly theater shows

Big productions aimed at families include Matilda the Musical at Cambridge Theatre, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at Palace Theatre, and Disney’s The Lion King at Lyceum Theatre. Tickets need to be booked well in advance, especially if you're on a budget .

It’s often easier to get tickets to smaller productions at theaters away from the West End. Consider Unicorn Theatre near the South Bank or Little Angel Theatre in Islington, where all performances are aimed at youngsters. The Southbank Centre also runs family performances, particularly during local school holidays.

See wax creations of your fave celebs at Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds , packed with waxwork likenesses of all kinds of famous people – from royals to sports personalities – may be kitschy and pricey, but it makes for a fun-filled day. Music-loving teens can grab photo ops with top current singers, including Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, Rihanna, and One Direction, and even legends such as Bob Marley and Freddie Mercury. Young movie fans may want to visit the heroes and villains of Star Wars , stand with Katniss Everdeen, or see E.T. up close. Book online in advance for the best rates, and then look out for your favorite celebrity. 

The V&A Museum of Childhood is a toy-filled wonderland

Housed in a purpose-built Victorian-era building, this branch of the Victoria & Albert Museum is aimed at both kids (with play areas, interactive exhibits and dressing-up boxes) and nostalgic grown-ups who come to admire the antique toys. From teddies, doll’s houses and dolls to Meccano, Lego and computer games, it’s a wonderful toy-cupboard trip down memory lane. It's free to enter and has recently undergone a major refurbishment to make it an even more exciting location that's focused entirely on fun for young adventurers.

Best things to do in London with tweens and teenagers

Follow a trail to see the treasures of the british museum.

The displays at the  British Museum spark the imaginations of visitors of all ages, with displays of Egyptian mummies, buried treasures from Anglo-Saxon times, and Samurai armor. There are various worksheets, activities and trails designed specifically for younger visitors covering different themes within the museum. You can follow the " Twelve objects to see with children" trail  with tweenagers for a whistle-stop tour of the highlights of the museum, or perhaps the "One hour at the museum" trail before self-declared teenage "boredom" sets in. 

Take a boat ride along the Thames

At some point it's really worth taking a cruise along the Thames to spot some of London’s icons. If your kids love a thrill, Thames Rockets  has rigid inflatable boats that zip along the river and back from the London Eye Pier (go prepared to get wet). For a more leisurely approach to sightseeing, take the Uber Boat by Thames Clipper , a riverboat commuter service stopping at piers throughout the city from Woolwich down to Putney.

Admire the Houses of Parliament , speed under the Millennium Bridge (destroyed by Death Eaters in the opening scenes of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince ) and catch a glimpse of St Paul’s Cathedral . As you pass the  Tower of London , look for the Traitors’ Gate at river level where prisoners entered the Tower, before whizzing underneath the impressive Victorian  Tower Bridge .

Planning tips

As with any large city, dragging small kids around in London can be exhausting for everyone. Staying realistic about how much you can see in a day and being flexible with your schedule is the key to keeping everyone happy.

Unfortunately, London is not particularly easy to navigate with a stroller or for anyone with accessibility needs. Even Tube stations with step-free access often have a big gap between the train and the platform, and you can end up walking a long way through the underground network before reaching the platform you need.

Buses are often a better options for getting around central London  at least. Better still, divide your visit into neighborhoods and walk between sites to minimize your time fighting the often frustrating transport system.

Note: children under 11 travel for free with a fare-paying adult. You can get a discounted Visitor Oyster cards for children aged 12 to 16 by asking a staff member to add a "Young Visitor" discount to your Oyster card at a London tube or train station. Over the age of 16, your child will be paying the adult rate. 

This article was first published March 2015 and updated March 2024

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20 Things To Do In London With A Toddler (For Under £10)

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We know there are many factors to consider when thinking about a visit to London with toddlers .

Taking young children out can be stressful so we’ve put together a tried-and-tested guide on the best ways to spend a day in London with a toddler.

There are numerous things for toddlers to do in London, such as visiting the Science Museum or exploring the Diana Memorial Playground in Hyde Park.

Children get to an age where they seem to need a lot more entertainment or stimulation and it can be difficult to keep finding fun, age-appropriate activities to do with them.

Sometimes the choice is so great we don’t know where to start, and other times we find ourselves in the rut of going to the same old places over and over again.

We love this here city so have put together the best things to do in London with toddlers (for under £10):

How to Travel Around London With a Toddler

The great thing about exploring the capital with a toddler is that children under five years old go free on all London transport.

There is also a ‘Step Free’ Tube map to help navigate the underground with a wheelchair, buggy or pram.

If you don’t fancy braving the city alone, Big Bus Tour s offers a range of tours that will suit even the youngest visitor.

Free toddler activities in London

There is nothing like a free day out, especially when children cost us enough already!

These activities are completely free to children under five years old, whether it’s a full day of sensory activities or a day at the park there’s something for everyone whatever the weather forecast.

London Museums

1. Natural History Museum

The perfect free day out for you and the children, there are great sensory and interactive things to do with toddlers that keep everyone occupied and interested throughout the day.

Besides, who doesn’t love dinosaurs?

In addition to their standard offerings they also run free or low-cost additional activities every day, especially during school holidays.

2. London Transport Museum

Situated off the buzzing piazza of Covent Garden, kids go free at this award-winning attraction although you do have to pay for any adults.

You can discover the history of London Transport whilst children enjoy many interactive points throughout the museum.

There is also a play zone for children aged 0-7 as well as dedicated events throughout the year specifically for children aged under 5.

3. Science Museum

Everyone goes free at the Science Museum, and there is so much to see and do.

There are some brilliant interactive points for small children including experiments with floating and sinking in the Garden and a flight simulator with Fly Kids – both open daily.

The museum also offers Experitots play sessions specifically for children aged 18 months to 3 years but check their website for times and dates available.

4. AHOY! Gallery at National Maritime Museum

If you’re looking for places to take toddlers in London, the AHOY Gallery was specially designed for the under-sevens and is free during term time.

Located in the Royal Borough of Greenwich , life on the seas is brought to life in a series of playful and immersive spaces.

Best Play Areas in London For Toddlers

5. Diana Memorial Playground , Hyde Park

This lovely park is located next to Princess Diana’s Kensington home, with a large wooden pirate ship at its centre the park offers many opportunities for fun and adventure.

There is a sensory trail, teepees, a sandy beach around the pirate ship and other toys and sculptures to enjoy.

6. Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

There is plenty on offer for families at the Olympic Park, with wetlands, climbing walls, gardens and play areas you can fill your whole day with fun outdoor activities.

There is also the favoured waterworks fountain which will bring refreshing relief on summer days whilst the children navigate the snaking pathways of fountains and lights.

7. Coram’s Fields

Coram Fields is located in Central London and has lots on offer for adventure seeking toddlers and older children alike.

There is a mixture of play equipment and a large open green space for children to play.

They also have a city farm and wildlife garden, meaning the children can learn and play all in one space.

Best Indoor Activities For Toddlers under £10

With such unpredictable weather here in the UK it’s good to have an indoor activity to turn to that still gets you out of the house and beats that cabin fever.

Here are some good indoor activities to take toddlers to that are either under £10 or completely free!

8. Discovery Planet

Located in Surrey Quays, this is a popular indoor soft play centre that won’t cost the earth to enjoy.

With Free Wi-Fi and free parking, they have catered for parents too to keep costs down and help you to relax whilst your children have lots of fun.

9. National Gallery

An iconic London attraction the National Gallery has a lot to offer for families looking for a bit of culture.

They also offer a free storytelling session every Sunday morning for under 5’s, it’s a fun interactive experience that is led by professional storytellers with a special musical edition once a month.

‘Welcome Wednesday’ sessions are aimed at children from 18 months to 5 years and offer arts and crafts, music, movement and story-based activities for only £5.

10. Hamleys Toy Shop

As well as an abundance of toys to try out and discover, Hamleys often have in-store events to entertain visiting children.

If you think you can survive a visit without spending a fortune, it’s one of our favourite things to do in London for toddlers that don’t require any money.

Events include meeting favourite superheroes, chances to win prizes or why not take a break and let the staff read to your children during daily storytime.

Theatre and the Arts

11. The Barbican Centre

For the more theatrical loving little ones, the Barbican has some wonderful activities on offer for families.

There is a free play area at the ‘Squish Space’ for under 5’s which is full of objects especially to encourage parents and children to explore through play.

At the Conservatory, which is the second biggest in London, you can explore the tropical oasis for free – perfect for families.

If you fancy treating yourself to a nice lunch then you’re in luck as kids under 12 eat free for every adult ordering a main meal.

12. Southbank Centre

A great place to visit during the summer months the Southbank Centre offers the pretty Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden and the cooling spray of the Jeppe Hein water fountains.

There are activities throughout the year for children and many are free of charge.

During the summer they run Disco Loco, a free family party that offers an afternoon of DJing and performance to entertain the whole family.

Other Noteworthy Toddler Attractions in London

There are of course many other places to take a toddler in London but they may incur an entry fee over £10, for some this will only be for adults as many places are free for children under 3 years.

We think these spots are well worth a mention:

The Unicorn Theatre , situated near London Bridge has many shows and events for young children and costs from as little as £20 for a combined adult and child entry.

There are also show themed workshops on offer for children between the ages of 3 and 7.

The British Museum is one of our favourite London attractions for toddlers.

They have activity trails, gallery backpacks which include free activities and art materials that can be borrowed to keep little ones occupied.

There are free family events throughout the year which include activities such as mini explorers, archaeology sensory experiences and looking at ancient civilisations.

London is home to some fabulous afternoon tea spots for children.

They’re short and sweet and designed for children so even if your toddler is noisy, no one will mind.

Read our full guide to the best afternoon tea for children in London .

Toddler Friendly Attractions

The London Eye is an iconic London attraction and children love to see the sights from this oversized Ferris wheel.

There are often great deals which can include entry to another top attraction for a much lower cost.

Perfect if you are looking to tick off some of the big names off your list of things to see.

London Zoo is another top spot for many families, it can be pretty pricey for a whole family, although children under 3 do get free entry.

There’s lots to enjoy including amazing animals, feeding time and daily events to entertain adults and children alike.

London Aquarium offers a fascinating insight into underwater life, you can get up close with sharks in the shark walk, discover the world’s first whale sanctuary or have a rainforest and polar adventure.

With the pretty fish and illuminated underwater menagerie, it is a real sensory experience for little ones.

What To Do In London With Toddlers

Although London is a large bustling city, there are havens that cater for small children, and sleep deprived adults searching for pockets of peace amongst the hustle and bustle.

Armed with knowledge of the most welcoming places and the aforementioned step free tube map, parents and guardians can plan a completely toddler friendly day in the capital with little to no stress at all.

If you’re happy to pay the adult fare, all of these places are free for toddlers:

• All Merlin attractions (under 3 years old)
• Historic Royal Palaces sites (under 5 years old)
• Battersea Park Zoo (under 2 years old)
• English Heritage sites (under 5 years old)
• National Trust sites (under 5 years old)

So, pack a picnic and discover adventure without spending a fortune.

We also like:

• Riding the river/Uber boat
• The Disney Shop
• St James’s Park (for the swans and pelicans)

We hope this guide has helped you discover the best activities for toddlers in London.

From interactive museums like the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum to fun-filled outdoor attractions such as the London Zoo and the Diana Memorial Playground, there are plenty of entertaining options to keep your little ones engaged and happy during your visit to the vibrant city of London.

Would you like a free guide on ten things to do with toddlers in London?

We’ve put together a printable itinerary on the ten best toddler activities in London. Download your printable below!

What are your favourite toddler days out in London?

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25+ Fun Things To Do In London With A Toddler

Looking for the best things to do in London with a toddler? We have all the bases covered for our pint sized little ones.

Whether you are living locally, or visiting London with a toddler, there is plenty to discover. From the incredibly toddler friendly Discovery Centre in Stratford, to museums in Central London, not to mention the open green parks to run around.

Having lived in the city with my kids for most of their lives, we have been lucky enough to check out what every corner of London has to offer! We’ve hand selected the best places for you to check out with a tot.

In case you are a tourist in the city, you can check out family friendly hotel recommendations in London here . We also have a specific post for kids , Halloween and Christmas .

Things to do in London for Toddlers

1. the discovery centre.

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If you are visiting London with a toddler The Discovery Centre is my top pick of places to visit. It is a little out of town in the East End of London’s Stratford area.

You will find the Westfield Mall in the area which is one of the cities biggest malls. Also in Stratford is the Queen Elizabeth Park and Stratford Wetlands which are great spaces for a walk after.

The Discover Centre is a super stimulating venue where different well-known stories come to life with characters and surroundings.

The story changes throughout the year and also has a spacecraft as well as an outdoor story garden. With two floors of immersive spaces, offering some super fun things to do in London with a Toddler.

2. Shrek’s Adventure London

Shrek’s Adventure London is where little ones can see the beloved charactes of the franchise.

Step into the mythical kingdom filled with surprises, and interactive storytelling that captivates tots!

From meeting Shrek himself to encountering familiar faces like Donkey and Princess Fiona, this enchanting day out on Londons Southbank is perfect for the entire family.

Check out Shrek’s Adventure London.

3. Sea Life London Aquarium

The Sea Life London Aquarium is a great place for toddlers on London’s Southbank. It has many fish species and marine life exhibits, not to mention the chance to get up close to some adorable creatures.

In addition to presentations and activities throughout the day, they also have a number of interactive exhibits for children. Aquariums are always a hit with the kids especially if you are looking for things to do in London with a Toddler.

Dive into the wonders of the ocean at SEA LIFE London.

4. The London Eye

The London Eye takes around 30 minutes to go around. It rotates and displays some of the city’s most iconic landmarks such as, The Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey.

Whilst you can take your stroller onto the London Eye, it needs to remain folded. The pod is completely safe to walk around for your toddler to explore.

The pace is very sedate, and you can hardly tell you’re moving; yet suddenly, they were soaring high above the trees!

There have previously been events with story telling specifically for children under 5 on board the London Eye so it is worth checking if this is happening when you visit. You can enjoy taking in the sites whilst your little one is entertained.

Children under the age of three go free at the London Eye so you may as well make the most of it!

5. Natural History Museum and Science Museum

Two of Londons most popular museums are completely toddler friendly! South Kensington’s Natural History Museum and Science Museum provide toddlers with a fun filled day, not to mention they are free!

The Natural History Museum’s exhibits are not just standstill museums full of fossils! It’s vibrant and fascinating for toddlers with dinosaurs that roar and journeys into the centre of the planet.

Across the street at the Science Museum, the biggest hit with toddlers is in the basement where you’ll find the garden & water play area. Don’t forget to bring a change of clothes for this as our tot definitely got wet.

Imagine dams, water fountains, rivers and boats. Little ones will gain an understanding of how water makes things work!

It gets busy on the weekend so mid-week mornings is a fantastic time to visit. You will have the chance to make the most of it without too many people around.

Also in The Science Museum is a paid experiment section. We have been a few times with our toddler and it is definitely worth it.

There are both experiment demonstrations and little ones can do their own experiments too. Kids love the big slide in this paid part of the museum.

if you are on a budget , it is not a necessity to visit this area but it is a lovely addition! Neither the Natural History Museum nor the Science Museum charge admission.

However, the admission fee and pre-booked tickets may be required for some temporary exhibitions and events. They do ask for a donation, however this is not mandatory.

If you are specifically interested in free activities in London check out this post .

Location: Natural History Museum: Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD, United Kingdom

Location: Science Museum: Exhibition Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 2DD, United Kingdom

6. London Transport Museum

Out of all of the museums in the capital, The London Transport Museum is one of the top things to do in London with a Toddler. It offers activities to do for families with toddlers and older children.

Based in Covent Garden, it is in a great location to explore the area before or after your visit. The museum has a play zone where they can pretend to fly a plane , drive a bus, or operate a tube. 

This museum is not just for kids . Adults find it fascinating to follow along 200 years of history to understand how London transportation has changed over time.

Kids will especially love the huge collection of over 80 historic vehicles, most of which are open to try out!

With your help, they can climb aboard the life-sized London transport relics and sit in the driver’s seat to enjoy the view.

There is a dedicated kids ‘All Aboard Area’ with themed play stations for the under-7’s. The area also has soft play for toddlers.

Tickets for the museum are available online for savings on adult admission. Children under 18 are free! See what special programs are being offered during school breaks by checking the London Transport Museum’s calendar.  

If you live in London, it’s quite cost effective to buy an annual pass.

Book tickets to the London Transport Museum here.

Location: The Piazza, London WC2E 7BB, United Kingdom

7. The Horniman Museum

The Horniman Museum is located in the South East of London, only a short walk from Forest Hill station.

With its outdoor areas stretching over 16 acres, The Horniman Museum is a great place for children and toddlers. It includes a nature trail as well as interactive exhibits to keep toddlers occupied.

The most unique and noteworthy feature of this museum is its butterfly garden. It’s very warm inside and has some fantastic species of butterflies from Central and South America.

I’m really amazed at how magical it is inside and how much kids and toddlers can learn about the lifecycle of a butterfly. From the larvae hatching to the fluorescent blue butterflies swooshing by, they can see each stage of the process!

Besides being an educational experience, visiting the Horniman Museum is high in the list of fun things to do with toddlers in London.

There is also a free farm and an aquarium for children to enjoy. The outdoor gardens have always been a hit with our little ones.

Location: 100 London Rd, London SE23 3PQ, United Kingdom

8. The National Maritime Museum

One of the best toddler-friendly things to do in Greenwich is to visit the National Maritime Museum.

As its name implies, it houses exhibits related to sea history and other sea-related exhibits. The historical building forms part of a world heritage site and is completely free to enter. 

AHOY is the best part of the museum for toddlers, offering an interactive play area where they can climb, play, pretend to be sailors and learn about the world around them through toddler-friendly exhibits.

The play area is free during the week and it’s just a matter of turning up. Weekends, however, require you to make a reservation and pay.

I recommend visiting this museum during the week if you are planning to spend a few days in London.

The museum has something for everyone, including plenty of sensory fun for babies and toddlers.

If you fancy a scenic walk after the Maritime Museum, you can head to the Royal Observatory Deck where you will get some stunning panoramic views of London.

Location: Romney Rd, London SE10 9NF, United Kingdom

9. The Tate Modern

The Tate Modern is an essential stop on any London trip. With its fantastic FREE display of modern art, the Tate Modern is a great place for families with toddlers to visit.

Based on the South Bank of the River Thames, it’s easily accessible and lots of fun! There are lots of events geared specifically towards families, with interactive artworks and workshops for kids of all ages.

You will be sure to keep your toddlers entertained for a few hours with doodle drawing bars, funky displays, and more.

Check out The Tates free events .

Location: SE1 9TG, London, United Kingdom

10. The National Army Museum

Another one of the great days out for toddlers in London is The National Army Museum .

It might not be the first place you think of to bring a toddler to in London. However, after its recent renovation it’s become a fantastic place to visit.

The facility includes interactive playground zones, soft play areas are designed for children under the age of six.

It also has themed activities and obstacle courses for toddlers to run through and burn off some energy while learning about the Army’s history.

Location: Royal Hospital Rd, London SW3 4HT, United Kingdom

11. The Planetarium

The Planetarium in Greenwich Park has a specific show for toddlers. It is just a short showing so is ideal for smaller children with shorter attention spans.

Ted and his friend Plant take kids through the solar system in a fun way suitable for younger ones. With 360 degree dome views, it is most certainly a fantastic sensory experience.

The show is educational and will ignite a love for all things space in kids. The Planetarium is very close to The National Maritime Museum so is ideal to combine the two with also enjoying Greenwich Park.

Head into Greenwich Town after for a stroll around town and pick up some lunch in the food markets.

12. Thames Clipper Boat

If you need to head back west after visiting Greenwich take the Thames Clippers all the way back to Waterloo.

Along the way you will see the skyline of Londons iconic sites such as Canary Wharf, The Shard, The London Eye and Big Ben. You will also sail underneath Tower Bridge.

It is an affordable alternative to a boat tour of the Thames and another nice option when looking for things to do in London with a toddler.

13. Kensington Gardens

Kensington Gardens Playground is actually called the “Diana Memorial Playground”. This playground takes its inspiration from Peter Pan!

A tribute to Princess Diana who loved the innocence of childhood, the centre piece is a Pirate Ship where kids can play and explore. It is one of the best toddler playgrounds in London.

The park is only open to kids up to 12 years old to make sure everyone stays safe.

Among the equipment of the playground are wooden climbing structures, a massive pirate ship surrounded by sand, tree carvings and a sensory trail. Not to mention the Serpentine Lake and many other toddler-friendly attractions.

14. Hyde Park

Hyde Park is certainly one of the more centrally located parks in London. Just off the West End of Oxford Street sits this vast open green space with lakes, cafes, and sprawling green fields.

There are many trees to shade the winding pathways on a hot day. The South Carriage Drive Playground is a great place for kids to burn off some energy.

In the centre of the park you can rent pedal boats on a nice day. There is plenty to do and as always, I highly recommend bringing a picnic!

Location: GR4M+WP London, United Kingdom

15. Holland Park

Holland Park is a fantastic park in Kensington, not far from all the museums. It sits on the grounds of Cope Castle, which is now home to the Ecology Centre.

If you want to unwind and just chill check out the fish pond and Kyoto gardens. The landscape is very serene with shoals of fish swimming and wildlife roaming around.

You could head to play in the adventure playground for toddlers. It has an enclosed area so its is perfect for running around.

Despite its size, the park is quite large and each area has something unique to discover, including a tortoise sundial.

In summer, there are often performances on the lawn. Make sure to check ahead on their website if there is anything fun happening when you visit.

There is also a lovely cafe where you can grab a bite to eat. Located near High Street Kensington Station, Holland Park is free to enter and in a beautiful part of London.

Location: Ilchester Pl, London W8 6LU, United Kingdom

16. Battersea Park

Since I live south of the river, Battersea Park has been one of the most frequent parks we have visited. While it’s not as centrally located as Hyde Park, Victoria is only a short stroll away.

Battersea Park offers a variety of activities, including a Go Ape treetop experience , a small zoo, bike rentals with carousels for kids and beautiful gardens.

One of the more adventurous things to do in London with kids is the Go Ape. It is a tree top rope adventure. We have previously taken our 3 year old to do this so will really depend on if your little one would like it or not.

Battersea has some perfect paved walkways, ideal for scooting, biking or pushing your stroller around the park. If you like Cherry Blossoms, Battersea Park is a stunning place to snap some shots in spring.

There are two playgrounds in Battersea Park. The one on the east side of the park close to the lake is better for toddlers. The playground on the other side has some huge slides and more climbing required so best suited to older kids.

Location: London SW11 4NJ, United Kingdom

17. St. James Park

St. James Park is an iconic experience for toddlers, where you can see Buckingham Palace just outside the northern end. Marvel at the blooming flowers and bustling atmosphere.

This park also has a great playground with mounds, slides and climbing frames ideal for toddlers. It does get busy during school holidays and weekends so best to visit mid-week.

If you visit St James Park, make sure to check out the Pelicans. They were gifted hundreds of years ago by the Russian Ambassador. They are quite unique in London so are a must see!

Location: 121 Hartington Rd, London E17 8AS, United Kingdom

18. Regents Park

Regents Park is situated on Baker St, surrounded by lavish houses of international ambassadors. It certainly is an area of wealth and grandeur.

Regents Park has plenty to offer, including a large playground for toddlers, peddle boats in the summer for the family and open air theatre shows.

Most of the park is perfectly manicured and pristinely maintained with landscaped gardens. It has to be one of London’s prettiest parks, with rows of colourful flowers and tree-lined paths.

Location: GRJV+G6 London, United Kingdom

19. Kew Gardens

London’s Kew Garden , located in West London, has long been recommended in many travel guides. There is a lot to see so allow an entire day to visit.

Kew Gardens has a Children’s Sensory Garden. This garden is especially designed for children from 2 to 12 years old. It is the perfect place to hang out on a summers day. You may need a change of clothes for your little ones since there is some water.

The space is beautifully designed with themes such as sun, air and as mentioned water features. I find the space to be so tranquil and it is a wonderful addition to the gardens.

It’s worth noting you must purchase tickets separately to access the children’s garden. Go early and enjoy all the natural sensory play on offer.

To book a ticket to Kew Gardens click here.

Location: FPH3+FQ Richmond, United Kingdom

If you are in the Richmond Area, head for a walk along the Thames River in the town after.

20. Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park is an incredible place to visit with an array of activities. From the Royal Observatory Deck, to the Maritime Museum, Cutty Sark and the Planetarium. There is lots going on in and around the area.

I’m sure you’ve heard of Greenwich Mean Time which is essentially the solar time at the Royal Observatory Deck.

For this reason Greenwich does tend to attract lots tourists. This is a beautiful green space that includes both wild areas and manicured spaces.

With easy climbing frames and play areas targeted towards toddlers and pre-school children, Greenwich Park Playground is best suited for kids 1 – 7 years of age.

Location: London SE10 8QY, United Kingdom

Right next to The London Eye is a huge playground which is perfect for smaller children. You can also walk along the South Bank where there is always buskers and entertainment throughout the week.

Throughout the year, the area around The London Eye transforms. With Christmas Markets in the Winter and Summer festivities throughout the warmer months. It is most certainly an area to visit even if you don’t ride on the Eye!

Location: GV3J+74 London, United Kingdom

21. The Emirates Airline Cable Car

The Emirates Cable Car spans from Greenwich across the River Thames to the Docklands!

Providing sweeping views of the Millennium Dome, Canary Wharf, and parts of central London, it’s definitely a mode of transport worth checking out. Little ones under 5 go free with a paying adult!

Prior to boarding, strollers must be collapsed and your toddler must be secured in a front-facing baby harness.

The epic gondola trip at sunset is highly recommended if you can push through the witching hour! It really is such a beautiful tranquil trip when the sun is setting.

Location: 27 Western Gateway, London E16 1FA, United Kingdom

22. Interactive Concert With London Symphony Orchestra Musicians

Situated on St Lukes Old Street in East London is the Symphony Orchestra. The resident musicians at The London Symphony Orchestra put on interactive shows for under 5s and it is such a hit with local families & tourists!

Kids get to meet angry trolls, greedy crocodiles and singing bears throughout the even. There is lots of singings and dancing brining stories to life.

Tickets for adults cost £7 whilst kids over the age of 1 cost £5 for some events. There are other regular events like family concert and Monday morning early year workshops.

It’s such a great way to introduce little ones to instruments and different sounds!

Check out The London Symphony Orchestra family events here.

23. The Museum Of London

The Museum of London is another East End activity. They have lots of free things for kids and toddlers including an activity backpack they can use to explore the museum which they are loaned on arrival.

The venue also features tail trails, activity sheets and games. There are areas to picnic on site as well as cafes and restaurants. If you are in the East End of London, you could also check out The Barbican Conservatory.

24. The Barbican

The Barbican Conservatory is an incredible indoor garden to wander around in the East End of London. It’s a leafy sanctuary with birds, fish and tropical plants to discover. It is the prefect place to have a stroll around for an hour if you are planning to visit the area.

Also in Barbican, kids under 12 eat free with a paying adult. Not to mention the family film club held on a Saturday morning. You will come across drop-in family exhibits and sessions regularly. Barbican is a great place to visit!

With classical music events, art & design, cinema, a library and so much more, there is something for everyone at The Barbican.

25. Toddler Rave

There are a number of companies which run raves for families! I know that sounds totally crazy but they are fantastic events. They are mostly on weekends, especially over festive holiday periods .

With lots of acitvites and play areas, bubbles, streamers, balloons and some oldie tunes for parents, they are really enjoyed by the whole family.

Check out the Rave Tots or The Big Fish Little Fish website for events happening during your visit.

26. Go Boat London

Go Boat London are self-drive electric boats which start at Paddington and can be taken along the canals all the way to Camden Town.

It is such a tranquil way of seeing some unseen parts of the city. There are parts you will need to duck down low as you pass through some very long old tunnels! You will also pass through London Zoo where you will see monkeys swinging in the trees above.

You are given a specific map to follow and it is fairly easy to navigate. The boat has a table in the centre so ideal for bringing a picnic. There is Marks and Spencers right near the start so you can pick up some British favourites before you set off. This is one of our top things to do in London with a toddler.

They give everyone a life jacket and kids a sailor hat. Go Boat also quite often have events such as pumpkin hunting just before halloween. This is usually the last event of the season before it gets too cold!

It is one of those activities that is most certainly worth booking ahead to avoid disappointment. They also have another route out west in Kingston which is a beautiful historical town in Greater London.

Check out Go Boat here.

27. Afternoon Tea With A Toddler

Taking a toddler to afternoon tea doesn’t sound like something that would be that enjoyable. However there are a number of places which specifically tailor high tea to small children around the city.

Quite often, it is based around a well known book or character. Take for example The Tiger Who Came To Tea at The Savoy or Science Experiment themed tea at The Ampersand Hotel.

At The Ampersand, small planet cakes, tiny sandwiches, not to mention ‘potions’ in test tubes with mini explosions are served. The afternoon tea was such a hit with our two young kids!

Parents can enjoy a glass of bubbly or a nice caffeine fix ( we all need one right) whilst also enjoying some of the great food.

if you visit The Ampersand, it is very close to The Science Museum, so it could be the perfect lunch after a morning exploring.

Seasonal Activities For Toddlers In London

Both Summer and Winter are great times to visit London. Although in winter you will need lots of layers and pit stops for warm drinks if you intend to be outside a lot.

That being said, there are plenty of indoor activities in London like the museums.

If you are visiting London in summer, there are a tonne of fun water fountains around the city. You will find some at:

• Queen Elizabeth Park, Stratford
• Diana Memorial Fountain, Hyde Park
• Outside the Southbank Centre
• Granary Square, Kings Cross
• Next to Tower Bridge on the south side of the river
• Somerset House

The summer can get quite hot in London so it is worth bringing some swimmers or a change of clothes to cool off. There are also several outdoor lidos around the city if you are looking for things to do in London with a toddler in summer.

• Tooting Bec Lido
• Brixton Lido
• Parliament Hill Lido
• Charlotte Lido

Winter In London With A Toddler

London is a winter wonderland in the lead up to Christmas. We have a specific post about Christmas in London with little ones which is worth checking out. From the stunning festive lights which illuminate the city to the decorations, it is incredible!

In Hyde Park you will find Winter Wonderland where there are lots of festive rides and shows throughout December. We have previously seen a Paddington On Ice Show with our toddler and she loved it!

The shows and performances change year on year so just check their site to see what’s on.

Also in the city, Covent Garden and Leicester Square gets incredibly festive with buskers, markets and so much more. It is usually possible to see Santa in one of these two locations.

If you can manage to venture to the outskirts of London, you can pick up a festive Christmas Train Ride . They are usually lit up with festive lights and there are plenty of festivities on board with Santa making guest appearances.

Eating Out With Toddlers in London

The cost of eating out in London can be high, however there are some really good chains and independent restaurants catering to families.

It’s always nice to have a little variety catering to kids, not to mention a menu that is affordable.

A lot of restaurants offer a free kids meal per paying adult during school breaks. You may also come across this kind of deal at some airport restaurants too.  

We also appreciate restaurants that go the extra mile to keep kids entertained. The last thing you want is to gobble down your meal because your little one is getting restless.

Reserving on Open Table is highly recommended to save you the worry of finding a table, especially during the peak hours at tourist hot spots.

Not all restaurants in London are toddler friendly, however here are few we have found great with kids over the years!

Giraffe’s kid’s menu is designed to keep the kids’ tastes and interests in mind. It is quite affordable since they know your toddler isn’t going to eat a large portion. They have a good selection of mains and deserts for kids too!

Location: Multiple locations across London

The Inamo restaurant is a unique pan Asian eatery with several locations around the city. There are tons of healthy vegan options at Inamo, as well as really lovely noodle dishes that both my kids enjoy.

One of the best things about Inamo is the kids sit still during the entire meal! The table surface is actually an interactive screen where they can play games and watch chef cam!

Yes, you can watch your food being cooked right at your table! I know, it sounds bizarre, but it is such a unique experience.

They can also draw pictures, graffiti the table and discover the local neighbourhood, Inamo is a true favourite of ours.

Location: Multiple locations across London.

Jungle Cave

The Jungle Cave family restaurant is an immersive rainforest experience. With all sorts of life-like animals surrounding your table, it is an experience not be missed by animal-loving kids.

Although the food is not up my alley, with predominantly pastas, burgers and grilled meats, they do offer some vegan options. There’s no doubt that it’s all about the experience, and if you like the foods mentioned above, you’ll love it.

Location: 20-24 Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 7EU, United Kingdom

Pizza Express

I highly recommend Pizza Express if you are looking for an all-around family-friendly chain restaurant. It may not be a high-end restaurant but it has a really great kids’ menu for a very reasonable price.

Its usually our go-to restaurant when we are out looking for things to do in London with a toddler.

Kids meals cost just £7.50 for three courses, and we are always happy to find vegan options!

The pizzas and salads for adults are always delicious. It’s an all-around affordable family meal. Further discounts are also available on Voucher UK.

Using a fun activity booklet, colouring pens and a paper chef’s hat, kids are well and truly entertained while Mom and Dad finish their food!

The London Pass

As you may know London can be quite an expensive city to visit. Whilst there are lot of of free things to do in the city , you can make a tonne of savings on some of the best things to do in London with a toddler by getting a London Pass .

There are plenty of London toddler attractions on the pass. Everything from the Tower of London, to the many museums.

Using the pass on your phone is super easy by downloading their app. You can make use of the ‘add ons’ such as citywide travel to avoid having to tap in and out with your debit card every time you use transport.

The London Pass operates on consecutive days rather than a 24 hour window, hence, I would suggest starting your day early to make the most of it. The only thing you have to do is choose the number of consecutive days you want.

Choosing a longer pass duration will save you additional money. They come in 1,2,3,6 and 10 consecutive day options. It is a great value for money and a lot of people we know have used them when visiting and looking for things to do in London with a Toddler.   

Click here to learn more about the London Pass.

Renting Equipment and Toys for Toddlers

No travelling family wants to bring lots of luggage. However there may be times you need a few hours of down time in your accommodation. There are rental companies where you can hire everything from a stroller to a box of toys.

I recommend renting a box of toys if you are staying in London for a few days and need a little entertainment to keep the kids occupied in the hotel room.

You may not want to carry toddler car seats and strollers all the way, so this is a great way to make your journey easier while still having your home comforts with you.

Get in touch with London equipment hire.

In Summary…..

The city of London is a multi-cultural melting pot with diverse experiences for all ages. Every member of the family will leave with fond memories of the city, whether they are toddlers, teens, or tweens.

Whether your kids are looking for adrenaline-pumping activities, culture, or science experiments, London is such a fun place to visit.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article. I hope it has been helpful to you. We love hearing from you, so please leave a comment and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

Were there any things we missed in this article that you think would make a good list of the best things to do in London with a toddler?

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First Timer’s Guide to London with Kids (+ 17 Things to Do for Families)

By: Author Leslie Harvey

Posted on Published: October 31, 2022

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After a long break from international travel, our family recently hopped across the pond for the kids’ first trip to Europe. We spent a full week of a two week vacation exploring London, England. We were in town just weeks before Queen Elizabeth passed away, so were able to experience some of the final days of her Jubilee Celebration as well as the many offerings the city always has to offer.

My sister lived just outside London with her family the last couple of years so we had a bit of the inside scoop in planning our own trip thanks to her experience (and also thanks to a neighbor of ours who lives part-time in London). But even without the help of locals, we found the city supremely easy to navigate with kids. We found London had a wealth of family-friendly activities as well.

As with all cities, there’s a learning curve. My husband and I had both been to London several times before, but we were seeing the city anew this trip visiting it with kids for the first time. Here are all the basics that other first time visitors to London with kids need to know, from transportation tips to the very best things to do in London with kids.

(Trips With Tykes uses affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through links in this post. See our full disclosure policy linked in the menu at the bottom of this site.)

Getting to London with Kids: Airports & Trains

First things first – if you are a first timer to London, what are the best options for getting there?

Many Americans arrive by air, as London has multiple airport choices and is often used as a gateway city for travelers ultimately planning to visit multiple places in Europe. There are 6 total airports in the London area but the two that North American travelers are most likely to arrive into are:

• London Heathrow (LHR) : The largest international airport in London, Heathrow has non-stop flights to and from nearly every major city all around the world. The airport is served by nearly all major airlines.
• London Gatwick (LGW) : Located south of the city, London’s second largest airport has non-stop flights to several larger North American cities, mostly on JetBlue and British Airways, as well as lots of low cost carriers offering intra-Europe flights.

Related : Tips for Flying EasyJet

If you are coming from elsewhere in Europe, your family may be arriving by train instead of by plane. Most trains from more distant destinations arrive into San Pancras Station (we took the Eurostar out of Saint Pancras station ourselves leaving London to head to Paris next). But trains from many destinations within the United Kingdom come into a number of different stations in the central part of the city.

No matter what station you arrive into, it’s usually a pretty easy connection on the London Tube at that station to get where you need to go (more on local transportation below). The most important thing to note for train arrivals if you are coming from outside the United Kingdom is that Brexit has complicated train travel a bit. You’ll have to clear international borders and likely will need to plan for more time at your departing station than ever before.

Where to Stay in London with Kids

We did an enormous amount of research on where to stay in London with kids, trying to find a perfect combination of location and amenities at the right price ( Related : find out how much a trip to London costs ). The choices in a city so large are likely to be pretty overwhelming to other first time travelers as well.

London is of course quite expensive and many Americans should expect some sticker shock. We live in San Francisco so are pretty accustomed to high hotel prices. We were actually pleasantly surprised to find prices not entirely out of the stratosphere. Even in the high summer season, finding 4+ star accommodations for a family of four in the city center is entirely possible for under $500 a night.

Of course, prices fluctuate quite a bit with the changing exchange rate. Prices have gotten even better for Americans since our visit, as the British pound has reached rough parity with the American dollar as of the date this post is published.

Like elsewhere in Europe, hotel rooms are smaller than might be customary in the United States, and the slate of amenities and furnishings aren’t going to be quite the same. We found that these features were the ones most important to scrutinize in comparing London hotels and lodging:

• Bed types : Many rooms that sleep 4 in London have just two double beds. Can you and your partner share a double? If you have more than one child, can your kids? Look out for family suites or deals for families to get 2 rooms with the second at a discount rate if you need more beds (see, for example, Marriott’s 50% off a 2nd room offer for select London hotels ).
• Air conditioning : England is usually pretty chilly, but if you are visiting during peak summer months like many tourists, you may experience some pretty hot and humid days. Not all hotels and accommodations have AC, so if you need that to be comfortable, check carefully.
• Elevators : Some historic buildings in London do not have “lifts.” We found that some apartment style accommodations would mean dragging suitcases up several flights of stairs. This might not be a great choices for families with younger kids – especially travelers with kids of stroller age.
• Breakfast : A lot of London hotels have excellent breakfasts as an optional add on to your room rate – often at a very reasonable price. Price compare carefully!

We ultimately ended up staying in a one bedroom flat in Mayfair at 9 Hertford Street , which ended up being ideal for our family of four for a week. It had some of the amenities of a hotel, including top notch warm and personable service, with a lot of the conveniences of a larger vacation rental. We ordered grocery delivery from Sainsbury’s to fill our fridge with breakfast foods and snacks and made much use of the washing machine in the flat as well. The property is located within a 7 minute walk of the Green Park tube station. The location was exceptionally convenient, putting us on three Tube lines (Jubilee, Piccadilly, and Victoria).

Other hotels and flats we seriously considered and researched extensively:

• Clermont Hotel, Charing Cross : Located near Charing Cross station, this hotel is also very centrally located. We initially booked and held a Deluxe Family Room, but a Studio Suite would have fit our family as well. Be sure to become a member on the site which entitles you to 10% discounts right away.
• The Cavendish Hotel, London : Idea for families of 3, this hotel makes sofa beds available in its larger rooms to accommodate a third person and also has cribs available. The hotel is close to Mayfair and Piccadilly. Breakfast for kids under 12 is free with a paying adult.
• St. James Hotel & Club : This luxury hotel specializes in interconnecting rooms for families, offering discounts on the second room. We found the Deluxe suite with living area and king bed that interconnected to a superior room with queen size bed was the best fit for our family of 4.
• 10 Curzon Street by Mansley : these serviced apartments are similar to the ones we ultimately chose at 9 Hertford Street. The two bedroom apartments sleep up to four people, but note that the building does not have an elevator.
• Athenaeum London : The priciest option we considered, this luxury hotel in Mayfair has residence style rooms ideal for families (including a California king bed and pop up bunk beds) as well as a children’s concierge.

Getting Around in London with Kids

London has one of the best public transit systems in the world and that’s a major reason it’s an ideal destination for family travelers. Tourists really can easily get anywhere they need to go with minimal time at a cheap fare.

Figuring out the rules and fares is a little tricky (my husband did the deep dive and found this post amazingly helpful). Kids under age 11 travel for free with a paying adult. There are discounts available for older kids and teens as well.

We found that a Travelcard that covered all public transit in Zones 1-2 (£38 for 7 days) covered us for every destination we wanted to visit except Heathrow Airport and a Premier League game in a stadium located outside of the city center. Load the Travelcard as well as additional funds for pay-as-you-go fares onto an Oyster card and the computers apply the best fare for you. We bought a pay-as-you-go Oyster card for my 13 year old daughter, because the Young Person’s discount for ages 11-15 was the cheaper option for her even if we used public transit extensively.

London Underground (the Tube)

London has a massive and extensive subway system (referred to as the Tube) that reaches almost everywhere in the city that tourists are likely to want to go. Trains come every few minutes and are comfortable and safe, albeit crowded during commute hours, as you might expect.

If you are using the Tube with a child 10 and under who travels for free, enter and exit via the handicapped turnstiles which open slowly enough for two people to walk through together. Like a number of places in older cities of Europe, some of the Tube isn’t entirely accessible. If you have babies and toddlers in strollers (especially more than 1), it’s going to be harder to navigate. But I did notice how kind and helpful Londoners were when they saw a parent struggling with a little one on the Tube – multiple people stepped up to assist which was unlike anything I’ve ever seen in a major US city.

London’s famed double decker buses are another easy and convenient public transportation option all over the city. We were blown away by how frequently they ran. We used them mostly as more direct routes between some places when traveling on the Tube would have involved a change to another line or a little bit of a walk to a station. My kids loved going up to the second deck and sitting in the very front row where the windows above the driver give great views of the city streets below. Oyster cards and Travelcards can be used to pay fares on buses just like the Tube – scan is upon entry only.

Hop on, Hop off Bus

Many tourists opt to take a different kind of bus to travel around London – a hop on, hop off. While touristy and not official public transportation, definitely don’t dismiss this as a potential form of transportation. These buses hit a lot of the city’s highlights and offer multiple routes, plus they offer audio commentary to help you learn about the city and get your bearings. Bus companies to consider include Big Bus Tours, City Sightseeing London, and the Tootbus.

Cabs in London aren’t as ubiquitous as they used to be, but there are still plenty of taxis to be had if you prefer a private ride around town. All London black cabs now offer contactless payment options in addition to accepting cash, so they are more flexible than ever.

Uber & Ridesharing

Ridesharing is alive and well in London. There are a couple of companies that Americans may not be familiar with that some locals use, but Uber is truly everywhere as well. We used Uber on several occasions (especially when transporting luggage) and were able to get cars of varying sizes and had fast response times even at off hours.

Best Times to Visit & How Long to Stay in London with Kids

When should you go to London and how long should you stay with kids? The right answer of course first depends on your family’s schedule.

Summer is peak season for family travelers as that is when most kids have substantial time off of school. Of course that means larger crowds and higher prices. But the warm weather is more pleasant than much of the rest of the year, when London can be pretty cold and dreary.

If your family has a more flexible schedule, shoulder season in May and September often has the the right combination of good weather and lower crowds. Spring break is another solid possibility for American visitors. But it can still be quite chilly in March and April, so pack accordingly!

We visited during the first week of August (when English schools are on a break between terms). The weather can be very hot and humid in August some days, which is a down side to this time of year. Because of the school break, however, traffic in the city was more reasonable and most activities were open 7 days a week so it was easy to schedule all the things we wanted to do. Plus, because a lot of US schools go back for the year in early to mid-August, we also found the crush of American tourists had dropped off a lot by the time we visited, which helped with crowds at tourist attractions.

As for how long you need in London, the longer the better! I’d recommend a bare minimum of 3 days in London with kids, but a visit of 5-7 days or more is ideal. Even with our full week in town going pretty much non-stop, we just scratched the surface.

Top 17 Things to Do in London with Kids

So now that the logistics are out of the way, let’s get to the good part. What should you plan to DO while in London with kids?

Few cities in the world have as many iconic attractions and must-dos as London. And so many of these things to do are family-friendly, so you are going to have a hard time picking and choosing.

Start by gathering the family and making a list of everything that interests you. Your list is likely going to be very long. We put all of our family’s choices into Trip Advisor so we could easily see on the map which ones were close to one another and possible to do together in a single day.

Here are 17 of the best things to do in London with kids (with a map to all of them to assist in your navigation and planning).

Some of course will be better for younger kids and some will be better for older kids and teens, so I’ve indicated age recommendations for many of them. Whenever available, I’ve also linked below to standalone articles from bloggers I personally know and trust for more details on each of these attractions if you want to do a deeper dive.

Tower of London

Both of my kids named the Tower of London as one of their favorite stops in London. Built by William the Conquerer over 1000 years ago, the Tower has played a central part in many major events in English history. Must-sees include the Crown Jewels, the Yeoman Warders (elite guards responsible for the Tower’s safekeeping who give engaging must-do tours too!), the ravens, and the Royal Armouries. History comes alive here in engaging ways for kids with tales of battles, torture, and execution among the ancient buildings.

The Tower of London is a very popular attraction that gets crowded, so I highly recommend getting tickets for the earliest entry time to beat the crowds. Plan for a visit of at least 2-3 hours with kids to be able to see the highlights. More details in this family-friendly guide to the Tower of London .

Westminster Abbey

As the site of the coronation of many monarchs and the final resting place for many of them as well, Westminster Abbey plays an important role in both the religious and political history of England and Great Britain. Entry into the church includes an audio guide, and there is a version available for children that explains the stories in a more accessible format in about an hour – just the right length for younger attention spans. (More tips for families in this article from my friend Allison about what to expect at Westminster Abbey .)

While most visitors explore the church only, we went a little out of the way to sit in the College Garden as well, which is a lovely and peaceful green space for toddlers and younger kids to explore with amazing views of the Palace of Westminster for parents. Westminster Abbey is within easy walking distance of both Parliament and the Churchill War Rooms (both listed below), so it’s possible to do two or even three of these attractions in a single day if you plan the timing carefully, which is what we did.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s is the famed cathedral featured in the “Feed the Birds” scene of Mary Poppins that is also the site where Princess Diana and Prince Charles were wed. It is the people’s church in London and turned out to be even more popular with my kids than Westminster Abbey. Take one of the shorter free guided tours to learn a little of the history (or use the included audio guide). And definitely make time to climb to the top of the dome for magnificent views of the city on clear days – not for the faint of heart but well worth it!

Churchill War Rooms (Imperial War Museum)

Kids can learn about one of Great Britain’s most famous prime ministers as well as a lot about World War II history in a visit to the Churchill War Rooms. This museum is located in the underground bunkers where Churchill and his cabinet rode out the bombings of London during the Blitz, ultimately directing the Allies on to victory. An audio guide (including a “family” setting with descriptions more understandable for kids) is included in the price of admission.

I was worried that the Churchill War Rooms would be too much boring history for my younger child (who was 8 years old and about to enter 3rd grade at the time of our trip). Its underground location, the walk-through layout of the museum, and its many multimedia exhibits turned out to be surprisingly engaging. My son especially enjoyed the interactive screen where visitors can listen to Churchill’s most famous quotes and quips. Plan on at least 2 hours to visit – more with teens who may be more deeply in to the history.

Parliament (Palace of Westminster)

The Palace of Westminster is home to Great Britain’s House of Commons and House of Lords, and it may come as a surprise that tours are offered here! Tours with a live guide as well as self-guided audio tours (both about 90 minutes) are available. We opted for the guided tour, which was a little more expensive but worthwhile to mix things up, as many London tourist attractions have audio guides.

Parliament was one of the favorite stops for my 13 year old. Seeing the room she had previously viewed only on TV and YouTube while watching the famous Prime Minister’s questions was especially meaningful to her. But the tour was probably a little too dry or at least too long for my 8 year old, so this is one attraction I might save for older kids who have a deeper understanding and appreciation of government and politics.

London Bike Tour

I have never thought of London as much of a biking city, but the government has installed a massive amount of biking infrastructure in recent years which has drastically changed the landscape. And that means that it’s incredibly easy to explore a number of city highlights on two wheels.

We took a private family tour with BrakeAway Bike Tours to get our bearings on the first morning of our stay in London. Our tour guide was knowledgable and upbeat while also giving us practical tips along the way and taking all the necessary measures to keep us safe. Everyone in the family ranked it one of our absolute favorite activities.

There are multiple quality bike tour companies (we investigated them all!), including Tally Ho! , the London Bicycle Tour Company , and Fat Tire Tours London . Many of the tour guides are actors and entertainers and have the skills to keep kids engaged. Most tour companies offer trail-along bikes and even trailer attachments so it’s possible for families even with toddlers and younger kids to enjoy this activity. Families with younger kids (under 10 or 12 years old) usually are required to book a private tour.

For amazing views of London, head to the city’s most visited attraction: the London Eye. This giant ferris wheel towers over the southern banks of the Thames River, rotating slowly one revolution each half hour so riders can take in the views. Because of its popularity, it’s essential to book tickets well in advance. This is one of the most expensive attractions in London and queues can be brutal. If you plan to do it, especially with impatient younger kids or if you are on a tight schedule, I’d highly recommend paying even more for the Fast Track tickets to skip the queue.

The same company that owns the London Eye also operates nearby Sea Life Aquarium, Madam Tussauds, the London Dungeon, and Shrek’s Adventure. As several of these attractions are replicated in a lot of cities around the world and are pretty touristy, we skipped them, but many families enjoy them. Combination tickets can save you some money if you plan to do more than one.

Afternoon Tea

Many of the luxury hotels in London offer decadent afternoon teas, and we highly recommend partaking in at least one during a family vacation. Most of these teas welcome children with special theming and kid-friendly food selections, so it’s very hard to pick among the many excellent choices.

We decided to go with a classic experience at the Savoy Hotel’s Thames Foyer for our family of four (my husband and I also took tea at the Ritz London as an adults-only date night). Also recommended for families is tea at St. Ermin’s , the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea at One Aldwych , and the Original Sweetshop Afternoon Tea at The Chesterfield Mayfair . (See more family-friendly London tea recommendations.)

Sunday Roast

While we are on the subject of food, one other must-do meal is a traditional Sunday Roast. Compared to many European countries, England isn’t exactly known for its amazing cuisine, but we had heard from friends and family that the Sunday meal is one worth experiencing. They were so right.

Sunday roast consists of a hearty plate with a roasted meat (usually chicken, beef, or lamb) covered in gravy with side items like potatoes, vegetables, and a Yorkshire pudding. Any local pub will likely do the job in spades. We ate our Sunday Roast at the Chesterfield Arms in Mayfair near our hotel and the meal was one of the very best of our trip. Some pubs serve this dish all weekend long, so you may have more than one night a week to get your fill.

Borough Market

Borough Market is one of the largest public markets in London with a history of over 1000 years. Today, it is full of sights and smells that capture kids’ attentions. There are a number of food stalls to grab a quick meal or snack on the go or table service restaurants surrounding the market itself for a more leisurely meal.

Hamleys Toy Shop

Hamleys Toy Shop is a child’s dream come to life – seven floors of every toy from around the globe at its main location on Regent Street. There are play stations throughout the shop where kids can see some of the toys in action and even play with a few themselves.

You’ll find a wide selection of toys that may not be available back home, including lots of Peppa Pig, Paddington, and Harry Potter as well as Hamleys’ own label of toys that includes an iconic red London bus and a teddy bear (with a new design each year). There’s even a Build-a-Bear station that includes outfits unique to London like a Beefeater costume. It was hard getting my kids to leave, so consider yourself warned!

London is full of beautiful parks to explore with kids, but Hyde Park is one of the largest with multiple offerings that families will enjoy. On the east side, families can rent paddleboats on the Serpentine Lake or hire a lawn chair to sit and people watch or enjoy an ice cream.

On the west side, the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground is one of the top things to do with younger kids. The play structure is shaped like a pirate ship. Kensington Palace is also located adjacent to the park. This Royal Palace is open to the public, with viewings of the King’s and Queen’s State Apartments as well as Kensington Gardens. It’s one of the most popular attractions for visitors wanting to explore Britain’s royal history.

Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard

Speaking of palaces, Buckingham Palace nearby is another must-see with kids. The famous Changing of the Guard there usually happens daily in June and July, but only 4 days a week the rest of the year (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays), so plan carefully and prepare for large crowds.

For limited periods (usually in late summer and early fall), the palace opens to the public for tours. The tours are quite expensive and not necessarily a must-do on shorter trips (particularly if you plan to visit other royal sites), but worth considering. The children’s audio guide is hosted by Rex the Corgi – a cute touch.

British Museum

The British Museum has one of the largest and most magnificent collections from historical sites around the world, from Egyptian mummies to the Rosetta Stone to the Parthenon’s Elgin marbles. It is an engaging place to introduce kids to history and archeology. You can really customize your experience and the time you spend there to match the ages an interests of your children, so it is one of the best things to do in London for all ages. And it’s free!

The enormous size of the museum is pretty overwhelming so I’d recommend looking at the offerings in advance and having a plan to navigate it. Check out this guide to the British Museum with kids for the top things to see.

All Things Harry Potter

Harry Potter fans will find a wealth of activities to do all over London. For the superfans with plenty of time to spare, the Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio Tour is an experience farther outside of the city center (more like a day trip) that requires something approaching a full day to see. There are also plenty of walking tours and bus tours of the sights of the Harry Potter films as well. More casual fans should at least consider popping by Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station for a photo opp and to visit the gift shop selling Potter merchandise.

See more offerings in this post with 9 Harry Potter things to do in London .

Premier League Match

Thanks to Ted Lasso, English Premier League football is hotter than ever among Americans right now. Attending a Premier League match is an amazing opportunity to have a much more local experience in London… if you can get tickets. We had to join the club for Tottenham Hotspur to even have the right to purchase tickets direct. Then we had get up in the middle of the night twice and refresh the website frantically to get the seats we did. But it was well worth it! Premier League matches run roughly from August to May.

One mistake we made when attending that other families of young kids should know about – Premier League games are loud – louder than any other sporting event I’ve ever attended. Consider bringing ear protection for younger and more sensitive kids if you do manage to score seats.

West End Show

London has a thriving theater district on the West End that rivals New York’s Broadway for the number and quality of shows it offers. There are always a number of kid-friend shows available. Some have age minimums or recommendations, so check carefully to make sure the show you choose is suitable for everyone in the family.

We watched Back to the Future: The Musical on our visit, which debuted in London and will soon also be showing in New York. It was a massive hit with everyone in the family, but most especially my husband who has surely watched the movie a few hundred times. Other family-friendly shows running in 2022 include: The Lion King, Matilda, Disney’s Newsies, Frozen, Mary Poppins, and Wicked.

Tips for Booking & Saving Money on Attractions in London with Kids

While it’s hard enough to narrow down what you want to see in London, figuring out how best to book tickets and not spend too much money can be even trickier. A few London travel tips to consider when it comes to the logistics of booking and visiting attractions (plus see even more in this list of helpful European travel tips ):

• Book Direct! : If you just want tickets to most attractions, book direct, unless you are booking a combination ticket that bundles multiple attractions at a discount. A number of travel websites and blogs will direct you to ticket middlemen like Viator and Get Your Guide for tickets (I won’t do that just to get an affiliate commission). While these sites do offer a number of in-depth tours worth considering, many listings on these sites are merely glorified marked-up admission tickets.
• Book in Advance : While there are some attractions in London where you can walk up and purchase tickets, everything is much more planned in advance these days. To avoid long lines or being shut out of an attraction entirely during peak tourist season, purchase tickets in advance (timed entry is required at many places).
• Check for Closure Days : A lot of London attractions are open 7 days a week (more than any other city in Europe we experienced), especially in peak summer months. But not all of them. Be sure to keep track of any days that activities are closed when planning out your travel itinerary so you don’t miss out.

Here are a few ways we discovered families can get a discount on multiple attractions in London:

• Family Ticket Bundles : A number of London attractions offer family tickets directly on their website that can help you save money on admission (most often these for adult/child combinations of 3-5 people). Be sure to read all the ticket options offered to find which one adds up to be the best deal for your family. Look for “concession” rates for discounts – this is a term that Americans may not immediately know the meaning of!
• National Rail 2-for-1 Discounts : If you are traveling to London by rail, you are eligible with your train ticket for a number of 2-for-1 discounts for many activities. Details on how to book and claim are on the National Rail website .
• London Pass by Go City: The London Pass by Go City is a discount pass that allows you to bundle multiple attractions and save. It includes Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London, a hop on hop off bus tour, and many others. If you plan to do 2-3 attractions per day that are offered under its umbrella, you’ll likely come out ahead, but you have to do the math.

Final Thoughts on London with Kids

Our family had an amazing time in London. It is just the right place to start European travels with kids . The city is so easy to navigate without wasting any time, and London has a wealth of family-friendly things to do. Even though it’s an enormous city, the neighborhoods feel compact, welcoming and friendly. It’s a city we can see ourselves returning to many times, so we highly recommend other families give it a visit as well!

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Visit London With Kids: 30 Best Things To Do In London With Kids

When it comes to travel bucket lists, the city of London in the United Kingdom tops many people’s lists. And for families, a great option for family vacations is to visit London with kids.

We’ve traveled to many amazing cities around the world, such as New York City , Paris , Mexico City, Delhi, Hanoi , and Jakarta . But London holds a very special place in our hearts. It’s not just that it’s a fascinating place to visit (which it is), but as a family, we also have a personal connection to this city.

Being part of a multi-racial family, my husband has some family roots in the United Kingdom. And on my side of the family, London was where my adoptive father and brothers lived many years ago, and where my sister interned after college. So visiting this part of the world is our way to honor our family’s legacy. 

But beyond the family connection, we’ve always wondered what it would be like to visit London with kids. And fortunately, our trip did not disappoint. The city teems with history, beauty, and culture! There are just so many things to do in London with kids.

I’m excited to share with you all the kids London activities we did, but I know that my perspective isn’t enough to fully show all the best family experiences London has to offer. That's why I’ve invited folks who have a family travel blog, as well as other bloggers, to share their favorite London things to do.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means I may receive a small commission if you click on the link and purchase something. But don't worry, this will not result in any extra costs to you.

Table of Contents

What to know when you visit London with kids

The city of London is the largest city in England and the UK, and also serves as its capital. Originally established as a Roman city in the year 47, it has since grown to a city of over 8 million people.

Tourism plays a major role in London’s economy, and the city sees over 65 million visitors a year. What this means is that it’s a great city to visit for families. But before you pack your bags and hop on a plane, there are a few helpful things to know before you visit London with kids.

If this is your first time traveling to London , make sure to spend some time getting to know how things work in England, where things are located, how to get around, and general British cultural etiquette.

How to choose things to do in London with kids

As you’re planning your trip to visit London with kids, keep in mind that you may not have time to do everything on your list. London is a big city, with a lot of things to do.

Even if you spend a month or more in London, you’ll likely still not be able to see everything.

To avoid exhausting yourself or disappointing yourself during your trip, prioritize your top three to five attractions and activities, depending on how long you have to spend in London. Accept that it’s okay not to see everything and do everything. And focus on building family bonding time to your trip, rather than checking this off your list.

London is such a unique and interesting city. Even walking through its ancient streets will be an adventure!

How to get around London with kids

For being a bustling metropolis, the city of London is surprisingly easy to get around, even when you visit London with kids. From its extensive network of rail lines, and an even bigger network of bus lines, it’s not too hard to get from one part of London to another (though it may take some time since the city is pretty big) and experience the city like a local Londoner.

The rail system in London is called the London Underground , also known as the Tube. It was established in the 1860s and has 11 lines which transport more than 200 million passengers each year. For above ground transport, travelers in London can take advantage of the city’s extensive bus lines, which include the iconic red double decker buses that London is known for. 

There are a couple options for paying for bus and Tube fares . You can purchase an Oyster card, which allows you to top up with funds or purchase a season ticket. Children under the age of 5 are free. And for older children, you’ll be able to purchase discounted fares on special child-designated Oyster cards. 

If your phone has the ability to do contactless payment, that’s also an option for paying fares. Contactless payment allows you to pay as you go. However, they don’t offer discounts for kids. Nonetheless, it makes getting to all the things to do in London with kids much more convenient.

The best time to visit London with kids 

In my opinion, the best time to visit London with kids is from April to June and in early September. This is when the skies are generally the clearest, precipitation is at its lowest, and the climate is not too muggy. 

If you can, avoid coming to London during the months of July and August. This is when the temperatures are at their highest. These months are also when London receives the most tourists, and when London kids take their summer holidays. So if you happen to be in London during this time of year, be prepared for larger than normal crowds, and plan accordingly.

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What to bring along on your trip to London

As you prepare for your London trip, be sure that you pack all the things you need to make your trip fun and memorable. Basic supplies include comfortable walking shoes, as well as comfortable clothes. But depending on the time of year, you might also consider bringing a waterproof jacket. 

Taking along a packable tote bag might also come in handy when you visit London with kids, especially to carry random souvenirs, snacks, and water bottles. And speaking of water bottles, we never travel anywhere without our Grayl water bottle. It’s one of favorite eco friendly travel products !

Here are some of the things we took with us for our trip to London:

• Osprey bag to pack our things
• Keen sandals for walking
• Adidas shoes, also for walking  
• Waterproof jacket 
• Packable tote bag  
• Grayl water bottle

Read here for our picks for best backpacks for travel with kids .

Our top 30 things to do in London with kids

As I was putting together this post of things to do in London with kids, I wanted to make sure I shared as many sights and activities as I could for families to see and do when they visit London with kids. So I enlisted the help of other bloggers to share their top attractions and activities in London.

The following is a list of our favorite family friendly things to do in London. I’ve grouped them by landmarks, museums, parks or public walks, public markets, tours, and other activities. Feel free to skip ahead to the section that interests you the most.

Must-see landmarks in London

London is an iconic city to visit. And for families who plan to visit London with kids, a visit of the city’s many landmarks is a must. 

Some of the most popular landmarks and London attractions for kids include Buckingham Palace, Big Ben (located at the Palace of Westminster, where Parliament meets), and Tower Bridge. Each one is packed with history and interesting facts that are perfect for worldschooling families to soak up. 

Since our time in London was so short, we only got to see a few famous landmarks in passing. However, take a read through what other bloggers have to say about London’s landmarks.

1. Buckingham Palace

Contributed by Dymphe from Dymabroad

One of the best things to do in London with kids is going to Buckingham Palace. This is the official residence of The Queen, and it is one of the most well-known sights in the city. It is a very large building with beautiful and impressive architecture. 

At the front of Buckingham Palace, you can see the Changing the Guard ceremony, which is a very interesting thing to see. This ceremony takes place at 11:00 AM on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Besides that, in summer, this takes place every day of the week. 

Also, you can do a Buckingham Palace Garden Guided Tour. During this tour, you can see beautiful flowers and plants in the garden. Also, you can learn a lot about the use of the garden by The Queen and about the history of the garden. This tour takes place from March 5 until May 1. The entrance fee for adults is £24.50 and £13.40 for children. 

Another tour that you can do when you visit London with kids is one of the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace. This is a tour that you can do between March 25 and April 24. The entrance fee for this is £65 per person. During this tour, you can see many rooms of the building from the inside. For example, you can see the Throne Room and the Grand Staircase. All the rooms have beautiful decorations, which is amazing to see.

2. Tower of London 

Contributed by Becky from Planes, Trains, and Buggies

The Tower of London is one of London's most recognised sites and an interesting option for things to do in London with kids. It’s home to not only the 1000-year-old White Tower, but the Crown Jewels and an infamous Prison as well as a lot more. 

Situated in an iconic location on the banks of the River Thames, the Tower is easy to reach by Underground, car or by boat. 

Kids will love the gory history of the Tower including seeing where Henry VIII’s Wife Anne Boleyn was beheaded or finding out more about Guy Fawkes who was imprisoned at the Tower after his famous failed gunpowder plot. 

If you want to see the more glamorous side of the Tower, the Crown Jewels are not to be missed. Under constant armed guard and hidden behind thick steel walls you can marvel at the Coronation Regalia from Kings and Queens spanning over 600 years. Considered the most visited attraction in the UK, if not the world, they are a sight to behold. 

If you’re planning to visit the Tower of London when you visit London with kids, know that it is open daily from 9am to 5:30 pm. On Mondays and Sundays, the Tower of London opens at 10am. Ticket prices are £29.90 for adults, and £14.90 for kids aged 5-15. You can add an additional donation if you want. Children under 5 are free.

3. Westminster Abbey

Contributed by Sophie from We Dream of Travel

As one of the most iconic landmarks in London , you can’t visit London with kids without visiting Westminster Abbey.  With over 1000 years of history, this UNESCO building has been the place of many important events over the years.

Regardless of religious beliefs, Westminster Abbey is a great place to visit with kids, helping them understand more about London’s history in a fun way.

Throughout the year Westminster Abbey puts on a variety of family events, particularly during the school holidays. These include arts and crafts, storytelling, and performances. So it’s a good option for educational things to do in London with kids.

If you plan to visit Westminster Abbey, it’s always worth checking online before you visit to see what new programs are available.  

However, if you’re visiting on a day without family events, don’t be discouraged!  You can pick up a Family Trail guide for free when you arrive to help you explore and discover the Abbey with kids.  At the end, children who use the trail can collect a free badge!

While there, take time to spot the main carved animals throughout the church. It makes for a great eye-spy game or treasure hunt!

Tickets for visiting Westminster Abbey are £25 for adults and £11 for children aged 6-17 years.  Children under 6 go free. Many of the combined tickets, such as London Pass, include access to Westminster Abbey. Also, during some school holidays children go free, so keep an eye out for any current offers!  

Opening hours vary so check online prior to visiting.

4. Globe Theatre

Contributed by Julianna from London x London

London is blessed with so many theaters, but few are as unique as the Globe Theatre. A trip to see a play at The Globe is one of the best things to do in London with kids not only because it immerses them in history but also brings the liveliness and fun of Shakespeare's plays to life.

The  original Globe Theatre was built in 1599 by William Shakespeare and his theater company, the Lord Chamberlain’s Men - that version was destroyed by fire in 1613 and provided the original for the modern Globe Theatre you visit today.

Seeing a play at the Globe when you visit London with kids is a brilliant experience for kids and adults alike. The immersive and intimate setting provides a unique way to experience one of Shakespeare’s classic works.

The cheapest £5 groundling tickets probably won't be the best choice for smaller children. Opt for one of the more expensive tickets in the surrounding seats so they can see the stage.

There's also a lovely little exhibition on the first floor which takes you through the history of the Globe, from its inception to how it was rebuilt in the 1990s. It's a great place for kids to learn about theater and Shakespeare in a fun and interactive way.

5. Trafalgar Square

If you're planning to visit London with kids, Trafalgar Square is a must-see! Trafalgar Square was built in 1822 and named after the Battle of Trafalgar, which took place in 1805. The square is an important public space in London and features a number of monuments and statues. We loved visiting there in the late afternoon and enjoying a calm moment by the fountains. 

The most famous monument in Trafalgar Square is the Nelson's Column, which commemorates Admiral Horatio Nelson, who died during the Battle of Trafalgar. The column is over 170 feet tall and features four bronze lions at its base. 

Trafalgar Square is also a popular spot for events and protests. Every year, around Christmas Day, a large Christmas tree is erected in the square. Trafalgar Square is accessible via the London Underground at the Charing Cross and Embankment stations.

For families looking for a few minutes to relax between all the things to do in London with children, Trafalgar Square is a great option. 

6. Millennium Bridge

Contributed by Dave from Silver Backpacker

If you have seen the spectacular scenes from the film, Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince, where the London Millennium Bridge is attacked by the Death Eaters, swinging from side to side and eventually collapsing, then you may think twice before taking your kids across when you visit London with kids.

In actual fact when the Millennium Bridge, the first new bridge to be built over the Thames in 100 years, first opened in the year 2000, it did tend to swing a bit and was known as “The Wobbly Bridge”. 

Some alterations were made to the suspension which rectified the syndrome and is now perfectly safe to cross.

Things to look out for on the bridge, which links St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tate Modern, include over 400 miniature paintings by Ben Wilson, a street artist known as the “Chewing Gum Man”. The minute paintings use discarded chewing gum as the canvas. 

See how many of them your kids can find while crossing the bridge.

There are great views of the London Skyline too. Show your kids how to identify landmarks such as the Shard, Tower Bridge, and other nearby bridges.

There is no entrance fee to the bridge which is open 24 hours and also has wheelchair access. The nearest underground stations are Blackfriars (4minutes), Southwark (10 minutes), St. Paul's (10 minutes), and Cannon Street (8 minutes away).

Traveling beyond the UK? Check out our other destinations in Europe .

Get a 5-day itinerary for London from our friends at Wanderlust Crew !

Museums to go to when you visit London with kids 

Museums can be a great way to learn about history and other cultures. They can also be a lot of fun for kids! They can learn about different subjects like history, science, and art by visiting museums.

When you visit London with kids, you should definitely make time to visit some of the city's best museums. There are a handful of world-class museums to visit, including the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the British Museum.

7. British Museum

If you're looking for fun and educational things to do in London with kids, look no further than the British Museum ! This world-renowned museum is home to a vast array of exhibits spanning across many different cultures and time periods. 

There are three floors of exhibits at the British Museum. Kids will love getting to explore everything the British Museum has to offer, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to European art to Chinese porcelain. We didn't get to see every exhibit while we were there, so we each picked our top area to see: Ancient Egypt, Medieval Europe, Feudal Japan, and Africa.

The British Museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm. On Fridays, the museum is open until 8:30pm. Admission to the British Museum is free. However, the museum does limit their entry to make sure that the museum doesn't get too crowded. So it's helpful to book your tickets in advance via the website if you plan to see the British Museum when you visit London with kids.

8. Science Museum

For another fun and educational activity to do when you visit London with kids, head to the

Science Museum . For science lovers like our family, this is the perfect museum to visit. There are interactive exhibits on topics such as mathematics, flight, engineering, medicine, and other science related topics.

Much like the British Museum, we knew we couldn't fit all the exhibits in one day. So we each picked our top sections to visit. Even so, there were just so many things to see and do!

The Science Museum is open Wednesdays through Sundays from 10am to 6pm. During school holidays, the Science Museum is open on Mondays and Tuesdays as well. Admission to the Science Museum is free. However, you will need to pre-book your tickets, as the museum is limiting entrance.

9. Natural History Museum

Contributed by Martina from Places of Juma

The Natural History Museum in London is a perfect choice for things to do in London with kids! Whether you're young or old, you'll be enthralled by the huge exhibition in one of the best museums in the city! There are countless exciting, interactive exhibits to marvel at here, which, by the way, are displayed in one of London's most beautiful buildings.  And it's all free of charge, because you don't pay an entrance fee for the Natural History Museum.

One of the most interesting exhibits, which also fascinates children, are the huge dinosaur skeletons exhibit, which holds the first found T. rex skeleton. And not only that, there are more highlights! The earthquake simulator, where you can feel the forces of a quake, is exciting. Kids also love the mammal section with the giant model of a blue whale in the spectacular central hall. Another must-see is the "Cocoon," an 8-story building made of a silk cocoon.

Then, if hunger strikes, you'll also find several cafés in the museum where you can enjoy a leisurely drink and meal with your families. In the Central Café you will find a wide selection of sandwiches and healthy salads, but also delicious cakes, pastries and fruit.

Of course, a visit to the pretty museum store is not to be missed. There are numerous stuffed animals as well as dinosaur and other nature-inspired gifts for sale. It’s a great way to top off your museum experience when you visit London with kids!

10. National Maritime Museum

Contributed by Annabel from Smudged Postcard

The National Maritime Museum, along with the Cutty Sark, the Queen’s House, and the Royal Observatory, is part of the Royal Museums Greenwich.

Visiting the National Maritime Museum with kids is great fun when you visit London with kids. Little ones will love exploring the interactive Ahoy! Children’s Gallery (a word of warning, if you want to see anything else at the museum, don’t go to the children’s gallery first as the children will never want to leave!). It’s a brilliant area for kids to let their imaginations run wild with a ship to captain, a fish shop to man and a dock to work in.

Older children should head to the All Hands Children’s Gallery which also offers plenty of hands-on activities – the crane is particularly popular.

There are plenty of highlights within the museum itself which children will find interesting – including artifacts from Lord Nelson’s final moments aboard HMS Victory. Joining a family-friendly guided tour of the museum is a great way to engage children with some of the areas which they might not otherwise choose to visit.

For refreshments, head to the café where you’ll find a giant map of the world which children can run around on.

There is no charge to enter the National Maritime Museum but please note the other museums at Greenwich do carry a charge. The museum is open daily from 10am until 5pm.

11. Tower Bridge Experience

Contributed by Sinead from York Made Memories

The Tower Bridge Experience is a chance to learn the history of this iconic English landmark and to see its inner workings. It’s truly a unique experience for when you visit London with kids! 

Visitors enter by the North Tower to explore a self-guided exhibition charting the history of the bridge including how, when, and why it was built. The exhibit includes original footage of the bridge’s construction. Kids who love math and engineering will find it fascinating. 

In the South Tower, you learn about the various people and their roles who keep Tower Bridge working today. The visit ends in the old Victorian engine room where you will discover how the bridge was raised in the past and, in contrast, how it’s raised today. 

The highlight of the experience is walking along Tower Bridge's upper walkways on the stomach-churning glass floor. This floor is suspended 42 meters above the bridge road. There are fantastic views of London and the River Thames from both sides of the walkway including The Tower of London, Canary Wharf and St. Paul’s. Kids will love looking down to see red double decker buses, black cabs and pedestrians on the bridge below as well as boats on the River Thames. 

The Tower Bridge Experience is open from 10am to 6pm daily, with last admission at 5pm. Tickets cost £10.60 for adults and £5.30 for children.

12. London Transport Museum

Contributed by Keri from Bon Voyage With Kids

One of the very best things to do in London with kids is the London Transport Museum in Covent Garden. Over 200 years of history of London’s iconic transportation system are on display at this awe-inspiring museum. And with its interactive displays, fun stamper trail for kids, and play space for kids under age 7, this is a must-see for when you visit London with kids.  

London's transportation is iconic, and something kids love.  But at the London Transportation Museum, kids can get up close and personal to historical and modern transportation from London!  

With full-size and interactive buses, tube cars, taxis, horse and buggies, and more, this museum is fascinating for all ages. Kids can sit in driver’s seats, touch buttons and wheels, pretend to drive or be passengers in the large selection of transport.  The museum is also very thoughtfully planned out with an interactive Stamper Trail, so kids can follow the path of the museum and receive a stamp at various stops. This ensures that they don’t miss a thing. 

There is also an interactive Family Play Zone for kids ages 0 to 7 years old, an onsite café, and a shop. Best of all kids ages 17 and under get FREE admission all year long.  Located right in Covent Garden, it is an ideal spot for an educational and fun day out for families.

13. Other museums to visit when you visit London with kids

We really wished we could have visited every museum while we were in London, but we were limited by time. There are just so many things to do in London with kids, and so little time!

If you have ample time available when you visit London with kids, be sure to visit these additional museums:

Victoria and Albert Museum - The Victoria and Albert Museum is a museum of art and design, and has exhibits on fashion, textiles, furniture, sculpture, metalwork, and ceramics. There's also a large collection of paintings on display.

Museum of London - The Museum of London features exhibits all about the city’s history. Families can learn about London throughout the ages, from Roman times to modern times. They can also learn about all the pivotal moments of London’s history. 

Postal Museum - The Postal Museum gives visitors a chance to learn about the history of mail in the UK. A highlight of the museum is a ride on the Mail Rail, an underground railway that transports mail all across the city.

Dive into worldschooling with these learning r e sources for travel .

Parks and public walks to visit in London

When you visit London with kids, be sure to build in some down time. For our family, the best place to spend down time is at a public park. And it's a great option for free things to do in London with children!

Fortunately, London has no shortage of public parks. For parks outside of the city, you can visit Crystal Palace Park and Richmond Park. However, if you're looking for parks much closer to Central London, here are a few of our favorite parks to visit while we’re in London.

14. Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of the most visited parks in London. It's a beautiful park to spend a morning or afternoon when you visit London with kids. Built by Henry VIII in the 1500s, it was opened to the public in 1637. Hyde Park is free to visit and is open year-round.

The park is located adjacent to the grounds of Buckingham Palace, connected via the Wellington Arch. Other sights to see at Hyde Park include the Speaker's Corner, where demonstrations have occurred since the 1800s, Hyde Park Bandstand, Hyde Park Playground, and Serpentine Lake. There's also the Princess Diana Memorial located there.

If you're visiting Hyde Park with kids, be sure to give yourself plenty of time to walk around the grounds. There are small cafes and restaurants around the park. And you can also rent boats to go around Serpentine Lake.

Underground stations located around Hyde Park include the Marble Arch station on the Central line and the Hyde Park Corner and Knightsbridge stations on the Piccadilly line.

15. Kensington Gardens

Kensington Gardens is connected to Hyde Park, separated by Carriage Drive which runs between the two parks. Like Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens is a great place to spend a day when you visit London with kids.

Queen Caroline first established the gardens in 1728, and during much of the 18th century, Kensington Gardens was private property. Kensington Gardens was eventually opened to the public. In the beginning, Kensington Gardens were only open to the “respectably dressed”, but over time the rules around entry loosened to allow everyone to enter.

The main highlight of Kensington Gardens is Kensington Palace, a historical palace where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (also known as Prince William and Princess Kate) live. Families can take tours of Kensington Palace for £35 for one adult and up to three kids over 5 years old, or £55 for two adults and up to three kids over 5 years old. Additional adult tickets are £20 and additional kid tickets are £10 for kids between 5-15 years old. Teens aged 16-17 are £16. 

Other highlights of Kensington Gardens include Serpentine Lake (which it shares with Hyde Park) and the Princess Diana Memorial Playground, which has a Peter Pan theme. Kensington Gardens is open every day and is free to enter. So if you’re looking for down time in between some of the more active things to do in London with kids, Kensington Gardens is a perfect option.

16. Kew Gardens

Contributed by Joanna from The World In My Pocket

Kew Garden is a fantastic place to go when you visit London with kids. The Royal Botanical Garden Kew is located in Richmond and offers an oasis of peace, away from the busy day to day life in London. 

There are many different things that can not only keep the children entertained, but also teach them a few things. One of the most fascinating places inside Kew Gardens is the Hive, a gigantic sculpture meant to resemble a honeybee's hive. Inside of the hive there are thousands of LED lights that glow, accompanied by music played in the C key – the same one as the bees buzz in.

Another great place for children who visit Kew Gardens with their parents is the treetop walkway, which rises 18 meters above the ground. The idea of the walkaway is to allow visitors to observe the life going on at heights, above the tree’s canopy.

Kew Gardens has a special program for children between 2 and 12 years old. It’s a garden dedicated to them where they can learn about the nature we live in, how plants grow and how to take care of them.

There is always a good time to visit Kew Gardens , as every season the garden changes. There are also seasonal events organized, such as the light trail in winter, the botanical classes, or the wellbeing sessions. 

17. The Jubilee Walkway

For families looking for free and active travel things to do when they visit London with kids, look no further than the Jubilee Walkway. This lovely walking trail winds its way through some of London's most famous sights, including Buckingham Palace, St. James' Park, and the London Eye near the city's South Bank neighborhood.

Opened in 1977 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee, the Jubilee Walkway is a series of walking loops that total 15 miles of trail through the streets of London. It's a great way to see some of London's most iconic landmarks. 

The Jubilee Walkway is divided into five loops: The Western Loop, the Eastern Loop, the City Loop, the Camden Loop, and the Jubilee Loop. Each loop has several landmarks that families can see during their walk. 

The longest loop is the Western loop, which is six miles and goes by Parliament Square, Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, and Covent Garden. The Eastern loop, which is three to four miles, includes the Globe Theatre, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London. The other three loops are between two to four miles.

People who complete a walk can download a certificate of completion on the Transport for London Jubilee Walkway website.

18. Sky Garden

Contributed by Bridget from The Flashpacker

Families will adore the views of London from the Sky Garden when they visit London with kids. Located at the top of the so-called Walkie Talkie building, The Sky Garden offers a 360-degree panorama of London’s iconic skyline. Stepping out of the lift on the 35th floor has that real wow factor.

The Shard is across the river in all of its splintered splendor. North of the Sky Garden are the city of London’s most recognizable skyscrapers: The Gherkin, the Cheesegrater and NatWest Tower. But some of the best views are to the east where the Tower of London and Tower Bridge look like Lego models.

But there is more to the Sky Garden than just viewpoints. It is also a lush leafy sanctuary, featuring palm fronds, African lilies, birds of paradise (the non-feathered variety) and fragrant herbs.

Best of all, visiting London’s Sky Garden is completely free. However, you need to book tickets in advance on the official website, which are released three weeks in advance. To guarantee a decent slot, book as early as possible. Limited walk-in tickets may be available but it’s a gamble.  

The Sky Garden is open daily from 10 am until 6 pm on weekdays, 11 am to 9 pm at weekends. There are bars and pricey restaurants onsite.

Read here for more outdoor activity ideas for travel .

Public markets you don't want to miss

For a family, especially a family with multiple kids, eating meals at a sit down restaurant takes a lot of effort. And it can get pretty painful on the budget as well! That’s why we like going to public markets to find food options.

Besides visiting markets for our meals, we like walking through public markets for the vibrant and lively atmosphere. London is full of amazing markets, some of them dating back centuries! Here are our favorite markets to experience when we visit London with kids.

19. Camden Market

Camden Market is one of the most popular tourist destinations in London, and it's no wonder why. With its vibrant atmosphere, excellent selection of stores and restaurants, and convenient location, Camden Market is a fun option for things to do in London with kids.

Camden Market is located in Camden Town, just north of the city center. The market has been around since 1974. But before that, in the 19th century, the area was known for its distilleries and warehouses for gin. Camden was a prime location because of the canal running through the area, making trade easy and convenient.

Today, tourists are unaware of the area's gin history. However, they can still catch a glimpse of the importance of canal trade by taking a canal boat ride along the Regent's Canal. This is a great way to sneak in some relaxation time when you visit London with kids.  

The London Waterbus Company offers canal boat tours that start at Camden Market and end in Little Venice, southwest of Camden Town. It goes along the back side of the London Zoo and through Regents Park. One way fares cost £13 for adults and £9 for kids. Each ride is about 45 minutes. After your canal boat tour, be sure to head back towards Regent's Park to visit the nearby Sherlock Holmes Museum!

20. Borough Market

For another market experience when you visit London with kids, head to Borough Market. This market is located near the river Thames, a few blocks away from the historic London Bridge, and is a great place to buy fresh produce or grab a bite to eat.

Established in 1756, Borough Market still brings in over 100 traders who come to sell their produce, food, and products. Borough Market is a popular lunch spot for Londoners, as there is a wide variety of food stalls to choose from, with cuisine representing all kinds of cultures and styles.

For Harry Potter fans, Borough Market is also a filming location for the third installment of the Harry Potter franchise, The Prisoner of Azkaban. Borough Market is where the Night Bus takes Harry when he runs away from home.

Regardless of whether you visit Borough Market for the produce, the food, or the Harry Potter filming locations, it's a market not to be missed on any trip to London.

21. Other public markets to see when you visit London with kids

London is full of other public markets to visit and experience. Here are a few other markets to consider going to when you visit London with kids.

Covent Garden - In the West End of London is Covent Garden, which is known for its luxury stores and restaurants. Covent Garden is also a great place to experience afternoon tea, a quintessential British experience. Be sure to make reservations in advance for your afternoon high tea!

Spitalfields Market - Located in the East End of London, Spitalfields Market is a great artisan market to visit. There are also artisan food stalls where you can buy food. Spitalfields Market is located near the iconic Brick Lane, where you can find a variety of colorful street art.

Leadenhall Market - Dating back to 1321, Leadenhall Market is a historic market full of unique boutiques shops and restaurants. The market occupies the site of central Roman London, back when the city was called Londinium. Leadenhall Market was also a filming location for Harry Potter, when Harry was first introduced to the Leaky Cauldron in the first movie.

Start talking to your kids about travel privilege with these posts.

Tours to do when you visit London with kids

An easy option for things to do in London with kids is to take a tour. This is a genius way to pack in a lot of things into one day, and also get some local insight.

Here are a few tours you can consider doing when you visit London with kids.

22. Hop-on Hop-off London Bus Tour

One of our favorite ways to orient ourselves in a new city is to do a hop-on hop-off bus tour. We love doing these types of tours because we can pack in all the sights (and learn about them too!) in one day and essentially experience a city at a relaxed pace. 

We loved doing the hop-on hop-off Rome tour when we were in Italy. And we enjoyed doing a similar hop-on hop-off tour during our Paris 3 day itinerary. 

Families who visit London with kids have several options for a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Here are some bus tours to book during your visit:

Big Bus London Tour

Tootbus London Tour

City Sightseeing London Bus Tour

Golden Tours London Bus Tour

23. Walking Tour of London

Another fun way to get to know London on a deeper level is to take a walking tour. Families have a large selection of tours they can choose from, whether it’s food tours or historical tours, or Harry Potter filming location tours. There’s a tour for practically every kind of interest.

Here are a few tours you can book when you visit London with kids:

Traditional English Food Tasting and Walking Tour - We love experiencing a city through its food, whether it's sampling Mexican food in San Miguel de Allende or filling up on street food in Hanoi! For foodies, this London food tour takes travelers to different neighborhoods of London, where they can sample English dishes like scotch eggs, scones, and local cheeses, and visit some London pubs. 

Harry Potter London Walking Tour - This tour is geared specifically for Harry Potter fans and fans of the Harry Potter movies. The two hour walking tour takes you to several filming locations throughout London.

London Beatles Tour - For music fans, this London Beatles tour takes travelers to several spots in London that were significant to the Beatles. Included in the tour is a visit to Abbey Road and the site of the last Beatles public performance.

Working Women of the East End Walking Tour - One of the ways that families can practice responsible travel is to learn about the people’s history of a destination. This tour focuses on women’s history of London.

Palaces, Parliament & Power: A Walking Tour of London's Royal City - This is another historical walking tour that families can take to learn about the history of London. This tour focuses on the powerful and influential places of the city.

24. Street Art Tour of Brick Lane

Located in the eastern part of London, Brick Lane is famous for its street art. It’s traditionally been a haven for immigrants, starting with French, Irish, and Jewish immigrants. Today, Brick Lane is home to a large Bangladeshi community.

Brick Lane is also a popular place for art and fashion. Its vibrant street art draws crowds on a daily basis. And famous street artists like Banksy have used the walls of Brick Lane as their canvas.

If you’re a fan of street art, book this street art tour offered by Alternative London for when you visit London with kids:

The Original London Street Art Tour

25. Warner Bros Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter

For all the fans of the Harry Potter films, a visit to the Warner Bros Studio in Leavesden is a must. The Warner Bros The Making of Harry Potter Studio Tour allows visitors to see actual sets of the movie, get up close and personal to the props and special effects, and learn all about the making of Harry Potter movies.

This is a whole day experience, and is a great way to incorporate worldschooling into your travel experiences . Kids gain behind the scenes information of what goes into making a feature film. And for those who enjoy watching the Harry Potter films, they can see how some of their favorite scenes were made.

The Warner Bros Harry Potter studios is located about 21 miles away from Central London. Families can take a 20 minute train from the London Euston station to Watford Junction. From there, a free shuttle is available to take families to the Warner Bros Studio.

Alternatively, you can book the bus transfer and studio admission offered by Golden Tours. The bus is climate-controlled, and you’ll get to watch a Harry Potter movie during the ride! 

Book your Harry Potter studio tour for when you visit London with kids here:

Warner Bros Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter with Transportation

26. Ghost Bus Tour

For travelers and families looking for unique evening things to do in London with kids during their England itinerary , the Ghost Bus Tour of London is the perfect option. It's a horror-comedy bus tour taking visitors through the streets of London on an old double-decker bus. We've done a similar Ghost Bus Tour during our Edinburgh itinerary , and we loved it there too!

Throughout the tour, the tour guide provides humorous commentary on the sites, as well as ghost stories that are sure to entertain. The Ghost Bus Tour lasts around 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on the traffic.

While most bus tours of London provide useful, though dry, information about the sites of London, the Ghost Bus Tour takes a different approach. Its focus is on fun and humor, rather than education. This is not a tour where you'll learn a lot about London. But it is a tour that's sure to be entertaining, perfect for when you visit London with kids!

Tickets to the Ghost Bus Tour costs £24 for adults, and £16 for children between the ages of 5-15 years. Students and seniors are £18. And there’s also a special family rate for 2 adults and 2 children that is £61. 

Tours leave at 7:30 pm and 9:00 pm every day. On Saturdays, there are also tours that depart at 6:00 pm.

Book your Ghost Bus Tour of London here:

Ghost Bus Tour of London

Want to travel deeper? Read these posts to see slow travel is the way to go.

Other ideas for things to do in London with kids

Besides famous landmarks, museums, parks, and neighborhoods, there are plenty of other things to do when you visit London with kids. London is teeming with so many unique things to do for families.

Here’s a collection of additional ideas of things to do in London with kids. From role-playing to watching shows, there’s an option for every age of kid to enjoy.

27. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Contributed by Ashleigh from Ashleigh’s Atlas

If you’re looking for the best things to do in London with kids, make sure you go to the Harry Potter play, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

Harry Potter fans will love it, but it’s also worth going to even if you’re not into Harry Potter.

The play is very long so it will be better for older kids. It is split into two parts – and each part is two and a half hours long. Most people see it consecutively i.e. all in one day with a break in between and go out for dinner. If you have kids you may wish to see it over two days so it’s not such a long time for them to sit still.

You would think it would be boring if it’s so long, but I was hooked the whole time even though I don’t even like Harry Potter. I didn’t think it was too long or there were any parts they should have cut.

If you’re planning to catch the Harry Potter play when you visit London with kids, be sure to check the show times. It’s on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays (Part 1 at 2pm and Part 2 at 7pm) and Sundays (Part 1 at 1pm and Part 2 at 6pm). The Sunday performance may be better for kids since it finishes earlier.

Tickets book out months in advance so make sure to book them early. The prices vary depending on what seats you get but are roughly 100 pounds a ticket.

28. Sea Life London Aquarium

Contributed by Paulina from UK Everyday

Sea Life London Aquarium is set in a very convenient location which makes it a good family activity option when you visit London with kids. It is just a few minutes walk from Waterloo Station by the River Thames. In this area of London you will find plenty of landmarks such as the London Eye or Big Ben, so make sure to get a ticket that includes a few other attractions in its price.

There are different zones in Sea Life London Aquarium to explore such as Ocean Invaders, Rainforest Adventure, and Coral Kingdom. During a visit, kids will be impressed with a variety of species from different parts of the world. It takes less than 2 hours to explore the Sea Life London Aquarium so it is a perfect idea for a few hours out in London with your kid.

Some of the species to admire include clown fish, yellow tang, or jellyfish. Kids will be also fascinated with huge sharks such as sand tiger sharks or nurse sharks. When they enter the world of intriguing creatures they will fall in love with this place.

Visiting London can be a great adventure to explore tropical fishes with your kid. There is no better place to see a crocodile in the capital than Sea Life London Aquarium. Also, admiring jellyfishes will stay in your kid's memories forever. Those colorful creatures look really incredible so if you want to explore London with a kid, look no further than Sea Life London Aquarium.

29. Kidzania London

For a fun and hands-on learning experience, be sure to visit Kidzania. It’s an interactive indoor amusement park where kids can role play in various jobs and careers. We’ve visited Kidzania in Mexico City, Delhi, and Jakarta, and our kids love trying out all the different types of Kidzania activities that are offered.

The London Kidzania is located in the Westfield London shopping mall in Shepherd’s Bush. Nearby stations include Shepherd’s Bush (servicing the Central line) and Shepherd’s Bush Market (the Circle line and the Hammersmith and City line). Several double decker bus lines also travel there.

If you’re planning to do Kidzania while you visit London with kids, you can buy tickets at the door. Alternatively, you can purchase your tickets online ahead of time here:

KidZania London Entrance Ticket

30. London’s West End

Contributed by Kelly from Girl with the Passport

If you’re looking to enjoy your time when you visit London with kids, then head over to the West End and experience all that this amazing part of the city has to offer. 

Not only can you attend a wide variety of kid friendly shows like Lion King , Frozen , and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child , but you can also visit vibrant shopping areas along Oxford Street and pick-up kid friendly souvenirs at the Disney Store. 

In particular, Primark is a great budget shopping spot in London where you can purchase a wide array of Harry Potter inspired souvenirs. 

Afterward, walk to Leicester Square to explore M&Ms World before stepping inside the largest  LEGO Store in the world. 

Next, grab a selfie with the family at Piccadilly Circus before visiting top art exhibits at The National Gallery or The Royal Academy of Arts.

If you’re looking for some more adrenaline-fueled fun things to do in London with kids, then try out the Crystal Maze Live Experience. 

It consists of fun mental and physical challenges that you need to complete to earn crystals. Each crystal earned will get you more time in the final challenge - time that you can use to catch as many tokens as possible. 

Then when you’re feeling a bit hungry, take the kids to a family-friendly restaurant like the Rainforest Cafe. Otherwise, grab some authentic street food at Berwick Street Market. 

It’s not only one of London’s oldest markets but it’s a great place to try delicious, fresh pastries from local hot spots like Continental Bread.

Need travel planning tips? Read my post on planning a family vacation . 

Making the moments count as you visit London with kids

Hopefully, this extensive list has given you plenty of ideas to make your trip to London memorable and enjoyable. We loved our time in London, and can’t wait for the next time we will visit London with kids.

As you plan for your upcoming trip, remember to plan it the way that feels most comfortable for you. Don’t feel obliged to do everything on this list. And if you find things to do in London with kids that aren't on this list, please do share them with me. I’m always looking for new ideas for future trips.

Have you had a chance to visit London with kids? Share what you did in the comments below!

Are you visiting London as part of a bigger family travel adventure? Use my ebook,  Hey Kids, Let’s Go Travel!  as a resource for tools, advice, and action steps for planning your trip.

Need help thinking through how to budget for a family trip? My  Travel Budget Worksheet  is just the tool you need! Click  here  to receive your free copy by signing up for my newsletter.

Want to connect with me on social media? Find me on Facebook , Instagram , Pinterest , and Twitter. And for those of you who are dedicated to traveling more responsibly, sustainably, and ethically, join over 200 like-minded families on my Facebook group, Responsible Family Travel .

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London with Kids: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Attractions, Activities & more

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: June 23, 2023

If you’re planning to visit London with kids – congratulations on your great taste! There are so many things to do with kids in London, no matter what their age. Even teens will be impressed by the array of sights and shopping on offer, while younger children should prepare to be amazed by London’s array of attractions and activities.

This guide to London for children is here to give you ideas for things to do in London with the family. Covered are all the top kids’ attractions in London, as well as a selection of the best kids’ activities in London. Some are even completely free.

Whether you’re wondering about entertainment for kids in London, family attractions in London or are trying to plan an actual London itinerary with kids, this article will help you find your way. From activities in London for kids to great family entertainment in London, this is the ultimate London-with-kids guide. Let’s go!

Visiting London with teens? Read our guide to the best things to do for teens in London .

The London Eye

Hop-on, hop-off london sightseeing bus, london parks , madame tussauds, london toy shops, harry potter experiences, a london musical , the tower of london, visit a london museum – natural history museum and/or wonderland at the science museum, the changing of the guard, afternoon tea, top tips for doing london with kids, stay central, prepare for rain, is london good to visit with kids, what can i do with my toddler in london, are there any free family fun activities in london, what will you do in london with kids, london travel guide & itinerary planner (+ 4 bonus ebooks), 11 top things to do in london with kids.

The London Eye is among our all-time favourite attractions for kids in London (as well as for adults who travel unencumbered)! No one can fail to be impressed by those jaw-dropping views over the city and the River Thames. 

It’s a stunning sight whether you take a day or night ‘flight’, and as such is the UK’s number one paid visitor attraction. This means you really do need to book your tickets as early as you can. For fully refundable tickets with a fast track option, we recommend Get Your Guide . Their options include tickets at the same prices you’d pay when booking direct.  

We also have an article all about the London Eye, which you can access via the link below. In this, we’ve also detailed other options, such as combined tickets that may save you money and all you need to know before you climb aboard. 

Book your London Eye tickets here

Click here to read our complete guide to the London Eye, including tickets, tips & tours

Kids just love those big red London buses, so they’ll be thrilled to board one with their very own ticket to ride. You can buy passes for a single day, or ones that last for several days in the city. 

For days out in London with the kids they’re ideal, as there is lots to see and you can all jump off for a break or to explore whenever you like. 

You can take in whichever sights you choose, including popular spots like Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster, Hyde Park, the London Eye, the River Thames, Tower Bridge and Leicester Square. 

Booking tickets in advance is a no-brainer as you can cancel up to 24 hours before travel to receive a full refund. It also saves you so much time.

You can do that right here .

If you prefer a dedicated bus tour which was developed specifically for kids we recommend this London bus tour (its not hop on hop off) – London bus tour for kids .

London has an amazing amount of green space, and what better way for kids to stretch their legs in the city than by visiting one or more of the city parks?

There’s a great kids’ playground right by the London Eye on the South Bank called Jubilee Gardens . This has lots of climbing equipment to keep kids busy. 

Otherwise head to one of the bigger, more traditional parks. Green Park is close to the Westminster area, while Hyde Park lies between the Knightsbridge and Oxford Street areas. Regent’s Park, meanwhile, is further north, close to London Zoo . 

Even most British kids will have visited Madame Tussauds at some point – it’s that iconic kind of place. Nowadays it’s far from the dry, dusty hall of still wax figures you might imagine. There are plenty of things for kids to get involved in and they can also spot everyone from a football hero to a world leader or Hollywood actor. 

One of the more recent additions to draw the crowds is the Royal Balcony, where you can get up close to members of the Royal Family as they look out over London. Kids will enjoy walking along the red carpet too, just as their favourite celebrities do. This is also a great place to be when it’s raining outside!

At Madame Tussauds in London, you can also take a black cab ride, explore the Star Wars experience or even discover the 4D Marvel Universe. Again it’s advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment and skip the line. Take a look at ticket options here.

London has some of the best toy shops in the world and they make great attractions in London for kids. Visiting them is free, too, although we obviously cannot guarantee that you won’t end up spending any money!

The best option is Hamleys on Regent Street, which proudly (and boldly) calls itself ‘the finest toys shop in the world’. If Grandad or an Aunt gave the kids some spending money for their trip, now’s the time to flex it!

Other great stores to visit include Harrods in Knightsbridge, near Hyde Park, and the Lego Store on Leicester Square, close to where all the film premieres are held at the famous cinemas there. You can also find an M&M’s merchandise store on the square. 

For fans of the wizarding world, having some sort of Harry Potter encounter in London is a must! There are various options, including sights within the city itself as well as the Harry Potter studios north of the capital.

The best way to choose what to do is to take a look at one of our in-depth Harry Potter guides, as follows:

• See the complete Harry Potter studios guide here
• Read all about Harry Potter film locations in London here
• Find the best Harry Potter walking & bus tours here

Taking them to see a West End show is one of the top activities for kids in London – as well as the adults they’re with! The whole experience is thrilling – from entering the theatre district that’s buzzing with energy to sitting through a spectacular show. 

To find out what’s showing check on the London Theatre Direct website or ask anyone you know who’s been to the capital recently.

New shows appear all the time, so even if you’ve been before there will be something you haven’t seen yet!

Our top recommendations for 2022 are:

• The Lion King
• Mary Poppins
• Frozen: The Musical

The Tower of London is also one of those family attractions in London to delight people of all ages. Would-be princesses will gawp in amazement at the sparkling Crown Jewels, while the tower’s more torrid tales are guaranteed to enthral those who can’t resist a bit of horror.

Then there are the famous uniformed Beefeaters and the ravens, who apparently act as guardians of the tower.

Booking in advance is advisable and again Get Your Guide offer a full refund if you cancel 24 hours or more before. You can purchase Tower of London tickets through them here . 

Click here to read our complete guide to visiting the Tower of London

The Natural History Museum is a must for many children in London – who could fail to be awed by whichever massive skeleton is on display in the grand lobby? 

This top pick among kids attractions in London is also free to enter. Booking in advance is wise, however, and you can do that here or book a fast track ticket here.

There is so much to do at the museum that it could even occupy an entire day – and it’s certainly a far more affordable option than many of the other fun things to do with kids in London. 

🦖 Good to know – There is also an excellent tour available especially for families called the London Natural History Museum Dinosaur Discovery Family Tour . This private, family-friendly tour of London’s Natural History Museum makes history fun and teaches your children more about the rise and fall of the dinosaur.

The Science Museum is another popular choice and buddy scientists will love WonderLab . WonderLab is an unmissable interactive experience and has been described as the most exciting science playground in the world. You will need to book tickets for Wonderlab which you can do here .

The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is an experience not to be missed by any visitor if at all possible. It’s so very British – and it’s free to watch. You don’t have to wait around for too long, either. 

Normally the Changing of the Guard takes place at 11 am every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. We’ve written a complete guide to this too, which you can access via the link below to find out all you need to know. 

• Click here for the best guide to the Changing of the Guard

There are so many wonderful and creative afternoon teas available in London (as well as the traditional afternoon teas at the Ritz and Fortnum and Mason of course) so it will come as no surprise that there are afternoon teas especially themed for children!

These are available at the time of writing but do check (March 2022)

• Peter Pan Afternoon Tea at the Aqua Shard
• Charlie and the Chocolate Afternoon Tea at One Aldwych
• Kid’s Sci-Fi Tea at the Ampersand
• The Tiger Who Came to Tea at the Savoy
• Jungle Book Afternoon Tea at Browns Hotel
• Wizard Themed Afternoon Tea at the Potion room
• Peppa Pig Themed Afternoon Tea on Brigit’s Bakery Bus
• Betty Blythe Vintage 1920’s and 30’s themed Afternoon Tea

This is our number one piece of advice for people visiting London, and it particularly applies to those visiting with kids. A long bus or tube journey to get to the attraction is not the best start to days out in London for kids, and will only result in many repetitions of ‘are we there yet?’ 

For the best area to stay in London with kids plus our recommended accommodation options – Click to check out our post on the best London hotels for families

We really recommend booking your London attraction tickets ahead of time. When you do this with Get Your Guide you have absolutely nothing to lose, as you can cancel 24 hours beforehand for a full refund. It saves so much time and potentially a lot of money too. 

The UK does have a reputation for being a rainy country – and it’s true. It really can be! So don’t go to London without at least a lightweight, packable jacket or umbrella, and wear shoes that will also be suitable when it’s wet underfoot. Find more about what to pack for your London trip in our UK packing guide for all seasons.

Of course, you don’t imagine you and your child becoming separated, but it can and does happen. Make sure you give them the hotel’s business card or the address on a piece of paper, as well as your mobile phone number. 

Also, keep an eye on your valuables or important items – like any city, London sadly has its share of chancers who will gladly relieve you of the contents of your bag if they’re given the opportunity. We recommend using a theft-proof travel bag like this one by Travelon .

London with kids – FAQs

London is amazing to visit with children. There are so many family activities in London to get involved in, whether it’s free stuff like spending time at the park, exploring a top museum or wandering around the world’s finest toy stores. 

Lots of paid London attractions for kids also exist, so you’ll never be bored as long as you have a little cash and some time to spare!

Toddlers love to gaze at the world around them, taking it all in. So give them plenty to look at and you’ll be sorted. Whether it’s a museum in South Kensington, the play park by the London Eye or a look around one of the world’s best toy shops, there’s plenty to keep little ones entertained. Just make sure you pack plenty of snacks and drinks!

We’re not going to lie – London can be a very expensive city. However, it also has far more than its fair share of free places to visit. 

There are incredible parks to picnic in, world-class museums and galleries to explore, street entertainers to watch on the South Bank and in Covent Garden and of course many mind-blowing shops. 

You can also take a self-guided tour of Harry Potter filming locations . The only limit on family things to do in London is your own imagination.

We hope this guide has helped you plan your days out in London with kids. The city has so many attractions to keep people of all ages happy, and as in life, some of the best things in London really are free !

• London Travel Guide – links to everything you need to know to plan your trip
• Looking for accommodation? Read our guide to where to stay in London
• First time visitors? Read our top tips for visiting London for the first time
• How to get around London? Read our guide to using public transport in London and our guide to London’s manin trains stations.
• What to see and do – Complete London bucket list with guide to all the top sights and attractions & Guide to the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
• How to purchase tickets for London attractions – Guide to purchasing tickets for the lost popular London attractions & Best London bus tours reviewed
• Boat trips and cruises – Comparison guide to the best boat trips and cruises on the Thames
• Visiting on a budget? Read out budget guide to London with tips to save money when visiting
• Free things to do in London – Discover 32 free things to see and do in London
• Best day trips? Read our guide to the best day trips by train and ou r guide to the best tours from London
• Love castles? Our guide to the most popular castles to visit from London
• More London tours? Read our comprehensive guide to the best London tours
• More for kids – 10 Best UK theme parks

The 2024 guide to the best of London with kids (+map)

London is an amazing city for families. From world-famous museums with hands-on interactive exhibits (many of them free ) and beautiful parks and playgrounds to fantastic food markets, amazing toy stores, brilliant book shops and so much more.

But where should you start?

Putting together a list of the best things to do in London for kids is nigh on impossible given just how many sights, activities and attractions there are to enjoy – you could spend a lifetime in London and still never see all that there is to see. But whether it’s your first London vacation or you live here and are looking for inspiration then this guide should help you make the most of the city.

This list of activities in London shows the many things that I’ve enjoyed with my three children (aged 14, 12 and 7) as well as recommendations from other family travel experts, and includes things to do for kids of all ages (from toddlers to teens !).

I’ve divided this list into thing that you really can’t miss in London with additional suggestions for if you have enough time. If you’re wondering how to organise your days then make sure to look at our itinerary suggestions.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I have been or could be if you click on a link in this post compensated via a cash payment, gift or something else of value for writing this post. See our full disclosure policy  for more details.

Where to find the best things to do in London with kid s

Table of Contents

Key to using the map:

• Orange: The best museums for kids
• Purple: Can’t miss London sights
• Green: Fun London parks for kids
• Burgundy: London theatres and shows for the family
• Yellow: Fun London shops for kids
• Turquoise: Food markets in London for kids
• Brown: Other things to do in London with kids

Don’t miss these London museums for kids

London is home to some of the oldest – and best – museums in the world. Many of them are free and all of them are a great option on a rainy day . The following are some of our favourites.

The London Transport Museum

The London Transport Museum in Covent Garden , central London, is one of my favourite museums in the world for kids.

As you enter you take an elevator ride back in time to the beginnings of public transport in London. From there you can learn about the hackney carriages, the makings of the tube and bus systems. Kids will love all the buses and trains you can sit on and there is even a great hands on area for little explorers.

This is a particularly fun museum for young kids with lots of activities to do. The London by Design gallery has moving pictures on the floor that kids are encouraged to jump on, there is the All Aboard play zone for children aged 0 to 7 years, kids can drive a bus…and more! 

Adults will love learning more about design classics and wider effects that London transport has had in the world. An added bonus is that twice a year the London Transport Museum holds an open day at their storage facility in Acton where you can see some of the gems of the collection that aren’t on display.

Cost: Adults £21, tickets valid for a year.

Closest Tube: Covent Garden and Leicester Square

London Transport Museum website

The British Museum

The British Museum is a treasure trove of artifacts from around the world. Among its treasures, you’ve got bits of the Greek Acropolis , the Rosetta Stone, a burial helmet from Sutton Hoo and an Easter Island statute .

There is so much to see among the permanent collections but there are also excellent temporary exhibits . Thanks to its free admission you won’t feel the need to insist on an extended visit if your children get exhausted with such an enormous museum.

The British Museum is easy to visit – open every day and late on Friday evenings. Unlike other celebrated museums, there is no long line to get into the museum. As such, it is an easy museum to dip in and out of, taking in a small part of it at a time. My daughter even had a sleepover at the British Museum with her friends as a 10th birthday party.

Shoba, Just Go Places

Cost: Free. Exhibitions require an additional ticket (charged). 

Closest Tube: Tottenham Court Road

The British Museum website

The Science Museum 

The Science Museum is filled with fascinating scientific discoveries from across the ages, all presented in a way that’s accessible to all ages. Most of the museum is free to enter but you may want to consider paying the entrance fee for Wonderlab . Here, kids can get hands on with science experiments and watch interactive presentations. These lively demonstrations teach visitors about fire, electricity, rockets and more.

All in all it is a great way to spend a day (or night if you take part in one of their sleepovers !) in London with kids.

Chris, More Life in Your Days

Cost: Free, Wonderlab requires an additional ticket (charged)

Closest tube: South Kensington

The Science Museum website

The V&A Museum

The Victoria & Albert museum is home to fantastic exhibitions throughout the year and many of them are brilliant for kids (we loved their Alice in Wonderland exhibition as well as their Frida Kahlo exhibit).

The museum offers visiting children a free backpack to carry as they explore the museum; themes change regularly and are an excellent way for children aged 5-12 to explore the V&A. For under 5s, there are  Agent Animal bags  that take them on a mission to find animals.

The V&A also runs creative workshops for children during the school holidays that are usually free .

Cost:  Free. Exhibitions require an additional ticket (charged). 

Closest Tube:  South Kensington

V&A Museum website

The Natural History Museum

London’s Natural History Museum is hands down one of the best London attractions for kids (and not just because it was a significant setting in the first Paddington movie !).

The Dinosaur Gallery is perennially popular, home to an enormous animatronic Tyrannosaurs Rex . Other highlights include Andy’s clock from the CBeebies shows Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures, the earthquake simulator , Hope the blue whale (you’ll find her hanging in the Hintze Hall) and the most intact Stegosaurus fossil ever found. 

The Dinosnores sleepover is a other popular event, make sure to book well in advance. There are four restaurants and cafes at the museum and lots of good places to eat nearby.

Recommended by Catherine D’Cruz, We Go With Kids

Cost: Free. Some exhibitions require an additional ticket (charged). 

Closest Tube: South Kensington

Natural History Museum website

The Postal Museum

A tunnel system exists in London that few people know about, the Mail Rail . The Postal Museum in London highlights the mail transport system that was used to transport mail from different stations across the city for nearly seventy five years.

Learn what it was like to work in the tunnels, see the equipment used by the driver-less trains and then take a ride on the original mail rail tracks . As letters were replaced by phone calls then texts then video and now emoji’s, the need for and the efficiency of the mail rail diminished.

There’s also Sorted! a fun indoor play space for young children to play at working in the postal system.

Suzanne, Phila Travel Girl

Cost: Adults £16 (online), Young person (16 – 24) £11, Children £9. These prices are if tickets are booked online

Closest Tube: Farringdon, Russell Square, King’s Cross St Pancras

The Postal Museum website

Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds is always popular with kids. Founded by sculptor Marie Tussaud in 1835, the museum is filled with celebrities from around the world who are all made out of wax. The wax sculptures are incredibly realistic, which is perhaps not surprising when you learn that tit takes over 800 hours to mould, measure, paint and sculpture just one waxwork figure. 

Madame Tussauds London is home to more than 400 waxwork celebrities separated into different categories. You can meet the Royal Family , have your photo snapped next to James Bond , catch a glimpse of Guy Fawkes and even spot The Beatles. 

It’s a hugely popular London attraction with over 2.5 million visitors every year – make sure to book in advance . If you plan to see other London tourist attractions such as the London Eye and SEA LIFE London , then it’s worth buying a combined ticket, which will save you money. 

Cost: Book online and save 10%. Tickets from £33.50 per adult if booked online .

Closest Tube: Baker Street

Madame Tussauds website

Other London museums we love with kids

The following museums might not be as well known as those listed above but they are all well worth visiting:

• The Horniman Museum
• The V&A Museum of Childhood (temporarily closed)
• The Museum of Brands
• The Museum of the Home
• The Cartoon Museum
• The Sherlock Holmes Museum
• The Museum of London
• National Gallery
• National Portrait Gallery

The can’t miss London sights with kids

The following are some of our favourite London sights and attractions that are fun for the whole family.

Buckingham Palace

Without doubt one of London’s most popular and iconic sights is Buckingham Palace , which has served as the official London residence of the UK’s sovereigns since 1837. Although it’s closed to visitors for much of the year, if you time your family vacation for the summer months you can take a tour of the State Rooms .

These audio guided tours are a wonderful way to get a sneak peek of life behind the wrought iron gates surrounding the royal palace. These opulent rooms are all impressive but it’s the White Drawing Room that steals the show.

Also part of the tour are the Ballroom and Throne Room , all filled with glittering objects and artworks. After your visit you can explore the gardens on your way out. Stop off in the kids’ pavilion to let the children play before you leave.

If you can’t visit the Palace for the summer opening then you can still visit the Royal Mews , which is where the Queen’s carriages and horses are kept. This is a hands-on, kid friendly experience with dressing up and crafts along the way. Next door, the Queen’s Gallery is suitable for kids too, as they supply an activity backpack to hold the kids’ interest while you admire the treasures on display.

The State Rooms open for 10 weeks during the summer . Tickets must be pre booked online. The Royal Mews is closed during December and January – check their website for details.

Cost: The State Rooms tickets from £30 per adult and £16.50 per child

Closest Tube: Green Park Station

Buckingham Palace Website

Horse Guards Parade

Lots of visitors to London go to see the Changing of the Guard outside Buckingham Palace but there are often large crowds. One alternative, particularly for children who love horses, is to head for Horse Guards Parade where the Queen’s Life Guard change at 11am Monday – Saturday and 10am on a Sunday.

There are smaller crowds and no railings between visitors and the guards taking place, and the whole event takes about 30 minutes.

Combine this with a visit to the Household Cavalry Museum where you can see the horses being looked after in their stables through a glass partition.

Jo, Kiddie Holidays

Cost: It’s free to watch the changing of the Queen’s Life Guard, but there is an entry cost for the Household Cavalry Museum (Adults £9.50, children £7.50, Under 5s free).

Closest Tube: Westminster, Charing Cross and Embankment

Household Cavalry Museum website

St. Paul’s Cathedral

There are so many wonderful things to do in London with kids but one of our absolute favourites is visiting St. Pauls Cathedral and climbing up the dome.

St. Paul’s Cathedral is an iconic feature of the London skyline, with its world famous dome that was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1708. The first 259 steps take you to the Whispering Gallery, which runs around the interior of the dome.

Continuing upward you reach the Golden Gallery, from which there are fantastic views across London . In total 528 steps climbed. Aside from climbing the dome, St. Pauls has an excellent family multimedia guide which takes you around the cathedral, with quizzes, activities and interactive games.

Nicky, Go Live Young

Cost: Free to attend the Cathedral for services. To visit the dome you will need a sightseeing ticket. Tickets are priced from £18 per adult and £7.70 per child.

Closest Tube: St. Paul’s

St. Paul’s Cathedral website

The Tower of London

The Tower of London is such a great place to visit with kids if they’re into learning about the history of London, castles and stories of kings and queens – including a bit of blood and gore!

Kids will be enthralled by the stories of the famous tower ravens , Henry the VIII and his many wives, the Guy Fawkes plot, the yeoman warders and Beefeaters with their pomp and ceremony.

Save the best until last, the spectacular Crown Jewels including dazzling crowns and jewellery that are still in use today. Our kids were in awe of the huge Cullinan I diamond, the largest white cut diamond in the world.

There’s a lot to cover so it’s a good idea to pay a little extra for the audio tour that includes a family-friendly guided tour and commentary around the tower, pointing out the highlights that will capture your children’s imaginations.

Kylie, Our Overseas Adventures

Cost: Adult £29.90, child £14.90

Closest Tube: Tower Hill, Monument and London Bridge

Tower of London website

The London Eye

Ok, so the London Eye is not cheap but it really does offer visitors some of the best views of the city . The giant ferris wheel, the tallest in Europe , sits on the banks of the River Thames and the pods – or capsules – move leisurely around. Each rotation takes about 30 minutes. 

A 4D movie is included with tickets and is usually a big hit with kids.

The London Eye (official called lastminute.com London Eye) is always popular so make sure to book tickets in advance . If visiting during school holidays then I would recommend splashing out on the fast track tickets , which will save you having to queue. 

A good way to save money is to opt for a London attraction pass from Merlin’s Entertainment. You can choose from 2, 3, 4 or 5 attractions and save up to £84 (the pass is valid for 90 days). The pass can include the London Eye , Madame Tussauds London , SEA LIFE London Aquarium , the London Dungeon and Shrek’s Adventure! London . 

Cost: From £32.50

Closest tube: Waterloo

London Eye website

Greenwich and the Cutty Sark 

Built in 1869 for the Jock Willis Shipping Line, Cutty Sark is the iconic British clipper ship turned museum in Greenwich, London. It was one of the last tea clippers to be built and one of the fastest, before sailing ships gave way to steamships domination. It’s a great family day out, with lively characters and crew members telling the many stories of the ship from the past.

If you have time, book afternoon tea beneath Cutty Sark’s original copper-plated hull . The Cutty Sark now also welcomes visitors to climb the rigging with its Rig Climb experience .

While you’re in Greenwich it’s well worth seeing what else the neighbourhood has to offer. Greenwich Market is a good place to pick up goodies for a picnic before finding a spot close to the Trinity Laban Conservatoire for a free lunch concert.

Afterwards visit the National Maritime Museum which has lots of fun displays and things to see and do for kids. Or, hike up to the Royal Observatory to see the Meridian Line (Greenwich Mean Time).

Lotte, Phenomenal Globe Travel Blog  

Cost: £16 per adult, £8 per child

Getting there: Getting to Cutty Sark is easy with the Cutty Sark station on the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) a short walk away. Alternatively you can arrive by boat at Greenwich Pier next to the ship.

Cutty Sark website

Located in Regent’s Park is ZSL London Zoo , the world’s oldest scientific zoo. It opened in 1828, the brainchild of Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, who was also the founder of Singapore.

It’s one of the most popular things to do with kids in London , home to plenty of cool creatures. It’s big so you’d be well placed to organise your day well, particularly if you’re visiting with little kids. Some of our favourites include the sunbathing lemurs, the bug house filled with all manner of creepy crawlies, the magnificent Asiatic lions and the cute penguins. We’re also very fond of the otters.

London Zoo is also home to some historically significant buildings including a Grade I listed traditional telephone box at Penguin Beach. There’s also the giraffe house, which is the oldest zoo building in the world still used for its original purpose.

Other popular London sights and attractions:

• Hampton Court Palace
• Kensington Palace and Kensington Gardens
• Westminster Abbey
• Houses of Parliament
• Tower Bridge
• HMS Belfast
• Monument to the Great Fire of London
• London Dungeon

Fun London Parks for kids

For such a big city London is incredibly green filled with parks and playgrounds . The most well known are the Royal Parks including Hyde Park, Richmond Park and Regents Park but there are many more to discover.

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

London is filled with amazing parks, but one of the best for all ages is the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park . This park was created during the revitalization of this area for the 2012 Olympics and is full of water play areas and challenging climbing walls as well as a treehouse fort. Everyone will find a unique area to explore.

Our favorite area is the Tumbling Bay Play area that has rock pools, sand pits, elaborate pulley systems, tall tree houses connected by wobbly bridges, as well as slides, swings and plenty of space to run around in the bushes. There is also a cute cafe here.

Continuing on through the park is the Pleasure Gardens area that features a massive climbing wall left from the building of the Olympic areas as well as swings and a massive sand pit.

The park is also home to the ArcelorMittal Orbit , the UK’s tallest sculpture (it’s 114.5-metres high) and the world’s longest tunnel slide . This epic slide is made up of 12 twists and turns including the ‘bettfeder’, a tight corkscrew that translates as the ‘bedspring’. This is a great thing to do with older kids and teens .

Karilyn, No Back Home

Cost: The park is free. ArcelorMittal Orbit slide Adults from £16.75, children from £10.75

Nearest Tube: Stratford station and Stratford International station

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park website

Primrose Hill 

One of the best things to do in London for kids is to take a stroll around Primrose Hill . Located north of the city centre, Primrose Hill is easy to reach by Tube and a nice and relaxed alternative to the typical tourist hotspots in London.

The park is perfect for an afternoon stroll and from the top of the hill you have a great views of the London skyline . The best part about it? Compared to some other viewpoints, this one is completely for free !

The neighbourhood around Primrose Hill is filled with nice cafés and restaurants . I’d also recommend combining your visit at Primrose Hill with Camden, which is known for its alternative markets and great food stalls.

Recommended by Patrick, German Backpacker

Closest tube: Camden Town and Chalk Farm

The Princess Diana Memorial Playground

When in London, the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground is easily one of the best things to do in London with kids.

Located next to Kensington Palace, the playground is in a central location and is easy to get to by the Tube. Peter Pan was the inspiration for the design and a large wooden pirate ship sits centre stage.

There’s also a sensory trail, play sculptures and teepees. The playground is set among beautiful trees with seating and grassy areas for adults to relax while their kids play. There is a café on site that sells hot food and healthy and vegetarian options and has kids food too.

Get to the park early, especially during the summer when there can be long queues. The park opens at 10am each day (closed on Christmas Day). The park is supervised and adults can only enter if with a child.

Closest tube : Lancaster Gate

Diana Memorial Playground website

Kew Gardens

Amazing Kew Gardens in the southwest neighbourhood of Kew is one of London’s most picturesque parks ; 132 hectares of gardens and botanical glasshouses that that house the world’s most diverse collection of living plants .

Kew Gardens was founded in 1840 and is today London’s largest UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with beautiful glasshouses , including the iconic Palm House and its exotic rainforest. There’s a magical children’s garden , the fantastic Treetop Walkway that soars into the tree canopy at a height of 18 metres, and Kew Palace, the former summer residence of King George III.

One of our favourite things to do at Kew Gardens, however, is to visit The Hive . an incredible multi-sensory experience designed to highlight the extraordinary life of bees.

Cost: From £11 per adult (off peak, booked in advance) and £4 per child.

Closest tube: Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens website

The Sky Garden

High above the River Thames floats the magical Sky Garden . A lush oasis from the chaotic pace of London, it will captivate children and adults alike. Spectacular 360-degree views , exotic plants and an array of dining choices await you, and admission is free!

Your visit begins with an online ticket reservation . , to be sure of obtaining your place. Another way is to reserve a table at one of the Garden’s restaurants. Some tickets may also be available on the day.

It’s best to arrive at the ‘Walkie-Talkie’ building (40 Fenchurch Street) at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time, to clear the airport-style security. You’ll then queue for a speedy elevator ride to the 35th floor, where you enter a vast lobby with breathtaking views. The area has a calm vibe as you explore the stepped Garden levels and stunning outdoor terrace overlooking the Thames. Reasonably-priced snacks and drinks are available, as well as restrooms with baby-care facilities.

Kathleen, Fast Net Travel

Cost: Free, be sure to book at least three weeks in advance

Closest tube: Monument

Sky Garden website

London theatre shows for the family

London is well known for its theatre and there lots of very good plays and musicals for families to enjoy.

The Globe Theatre

There’s no better place to begin your child’s theatre education, than with a visit to Shakespeare’s Globe in London. Originally constructed as an open air theatre in the late 16th century, the theatre was destroyed by a fire in 1613. It was rebuilt and in 1614 and then demolished in 1644. The modern Globe Theatre opened in 1997 and is based on the original 1599 and 1614 buildings.

If this story alone doesn’t entice your kids, they will definitely enjoy the guided tours that retell the rich history of the building and its famous characters. The company does a wonderful job of introducing theater to children of all ages . Their workshops bring Shakespeare to life for a younger generation by creating stories in terms they can understand like good versus evil.

Children ages 5 to 12 can try acting sessions where each child is given a role and learns about theatre terminology. Older children may be interested in one of the Shakespeare performances . Whatever you choose, know that the Shakespeare’s Globe is one of the best places in London to introduce children to Shakespeare and the theatre.

Kirsten Maxwell, Kids Are A Trip

Cost: Check website for performance and workshop costs

Closest Tube: London Bridge, Blackfriars, Mansion House, Southwark and St. Paul’s

Shakespeare’s Globe website

See a West End Show

London is my favourite city in the world. One thing I do on every visit to London is see a show (or two or three!) in the West End . Live theatre is amazing for all ages, but is especially fun thing to do in London with kids.

London’s West End is famous for its variety of live theatre plays and musicals. For kids, I would definitely recommend an eye-catching and engaging musical. There are many kid-friendly shows, such as Matilda , Wicked or The Lion King , that cater to young audiences. Your kids may already be familiar with the characters or songs and will love seeing them come to life on stage.

Luckily, live theatre in London is also affordable. You can visit any of the discount ticket booths around Leicester Square for cheap theatre tickets. Show up on the same day as you’d like to see the show, and you’ll be able to get decent seats starting from £20 per ticket. Which explains why I often fit more than one show into my London itineraries!

Riana, Teaspoon of Adventure

Some of the best West End shows to see with kids in London:

The following are some of the most popular West End shows to enjoy on a family trip to London:

• The Lion King
• Back to the Future
• Harry Potter & The Cursed Child
• The Play that Goes Wrong

Fun shops in London for kids

If you are visiting London with teens and really want to go shopping then take a look at these recommendations . For young children, the following are good options.

Hamleys Toy Store

Hamleys, one of the most famous toy stores in the world , has enthralled kids since 1760 and it is easy to see why even before entering. We spent most of the day in the store with our kids when visiting London and it is one of the best experiences they had.

The opening each morning is a spectacle in itself when the mascot bears , Hamley and Hattie, count down to opening time. From the moment we stepped inside the entertainment did not cease. Shop staff were ‘playing’ all the time… flying mini-drones, blowing giant bubbles and enticing kids to join in (and parents to buy).

We did get lured into buying a few items that we really did not need, but they made excellent gifts for friends as we travelled around the UK and Europe.

Recommended by: Jane, Fun Things to do in Melbourne

Closest Tube: Oxford Circus

Hamleys website

Visit Harrods

One could say that Harrods is merely a department store, but that would be a horrible disservice to a legendary retail establishment that has both history and beauty on its side.

Yes, the toy department is greatly altered from just a few years ago and is no longer a fairyland of books and toys. However, the entire store is actually like an enormous toy jewel box , with treasures to be found on every floor.

The escalators (fun fact: Harrods had the world’s first escalator, installed in 1898) move past intricately carved stonework with Egyptian motifs and beautiful displays of housewares, fashion and souvenirs of the shop and London. There are interesting things to admire everywhere you look.

If it’s a fine weather day, shop the Fresh Market Hall on the ground floor for some delicious picnic supplies, and head to nearby Hyde Park for a memorable al fresco lunch.

Recommended by Claudia, Claudia’s Travels

Closest Tube: Knightsbridge

Harrods website

Other fun shops to visit in London with kids:

• The Lego Store
• The M&M Store

Southbank Centre Food Market

London’s South Bank has seen an explosion of development in the past decade that goes well beyond the London Eye . While the Eye is still the biggest attraction drawing families across the Thames, restaurants and a vibrant waterfront are keeping them there all afternoon.

Even better, the Southbank Centre Food Market , located behind Southbank Centre , is introducing local and visiting families to cuisines from across the globe. Bites on display include Duck Fat fries, a variety of curries, Ethiopian dishes, Greek salads and Gyros, as well as traditional English fair. Picnic tables are set up throughout the market.

Recommend by Keryn, Twist Travel Mag

Closest Tube: Waterloo and Embankment

Borough Market

Borough Market is the oldest food market in the capital with a history dating back some 1,000 years. Located at London Bridge , today the market is foodie heaven welcoming some 4.5 million visitors every year.

There are over 100 different stalls selling everything from oysters and sausage sandwiches to Thai street food and giant, steaming vats of paella. It’s a great place to come for fruit and veggies as well as freshly caught seafood, cheeses, breads and more.

Borough Market is also a reliable option for otherwise hard-to-come-by ingredients. It still operates as a wholesale market , opening at 2am to trade, and welcomes the public from 10am. Note that it gets very busy at weekends.

Closest Tube: London Bridge

Other things to do in London with kids

If you have more time in London then the following are some of our favourite things to do.

Explore Covent Garden

Covent Garden is the perfect place to visit in London with children. The list of things to do is endless from street performers and toy shops to interesting child-friendly museums .

The best free things to do is watch the street entertainers that can be found performing outside of St Paul’s Church, inside the Apple Tree Market and along James street. There are many kid-friendly shops to visit including Benjamin Pollocks Toyshop , the Tin Tin shop, the Moomin shop and Pylones, which is filled with crazy objects and gifts.

You could also visit the London Transport Museum for a fabulous insight in to the world of London’s transport. Covent Garden is also the heart of theatre land with plenty of family-friendly performances.

Recommended by Donna, Like Love Do

The Hop On Hop Off Bus

There is so much to see and do in London, which can mean a lot of walking for little legs. On our first day in London we did a hop-on hop-off bus tour of the city , which was the perfect way to tick off a lot of the popular sights without tiring the kids out.

There are numerous bus companies to choose from, all running similar routes and itineraries. Options include Big Bus Tours , City Sightseeing , Golden Tours and Tootbus . Our favourite were the tour buses with guides providing live commentary. Best of all, we could hop-off whenever something caught our eye that we wanted to explore deeper.

Our bus tour also included a river cruise on the Thames , which was a great bonus activity.

Recommended by Dawn, 5 Lost Together

B Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

What kid doesn’t want to ride a bus and experience an afternoon tea when in London? Tackle two items on your list with this 90-minute afternoon tea bus tour that brings you by some of London’s most famous sights including Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, St James’s Park and Buckingham Palace.

You’ll munch on tiny sandwiches, scones , cakes and pastries , all while you see the most iconic sights ion a double-decker bus. This is a great place to meet other traveling families, and introduce your kids to the fine art of drinking tea.

B Afternoon Tea Bus Tour website

Enjoy Afternoon Tea

There are few things more British than afternoon tea and fortunately London has a lot of great places where you can eat your fill of cakes. Even better, there are lots of venues that offer child-friendly afternoon tea experiences .

These magical experiences include the Charlie & The Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea at One Aldwych, inspired by the stories of Roald Dahl and a Jungle Book-themed tea at Brown’s Hotel to a tea inspired by Alice in Wonderland at the Taj 51 and a fashion-forward Prêt-à-Portea at The Berkeley.

Take a Harry Potter Tour 

If one of your little ones is a fan of Harry Potter , you need to take them to some of the Harry Potter related sites in London .

Start out at King’s Cross Station where you can take a photo at Platform 9 ¾ . In the Leicester Square area, you will find the inspirations for Diagon Alley and Knockturn Alley. The kids will love the Harry Potter inspired treats at Hardy’s Candy Shop . You can also visit the shop of MinaLima who did all the graphic design work for the films.

Close to Covent Garden , you will find Gringotts Wizarding Bank , known as Australia House to muggles. In Westminster, you can visit spots where they filmed outside the Ministry of Magic . These are only a few of the Harry Potter sites in London.

Don’t miss a trip to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour just outside of London to see the Making of Harry Potter.

Recommended by Anisa, Two Traveling Texans

Mudchute Farm

You hear London and you think think: Museums, Hyde Park, the Queen and crazy shopping . London has everything. And as we learned recently, it has everything include several farms , yes farms! We visited one of them – the Mudchute Farm on the Isle of Dogs within walking distance of Greenwich and Canary Wharf .

Mudchute Farm has horses, cows, sheep, pigs, hens, geese and all the animals you would expect to see on a farm. You can touch most of them and feed some, either with grass or seeds which are on sale at the entrance.

We spent around two hours there, walking around, petting animals and feeding them. If you love nature and are looking for some alternative way to spend family time in London I think Mudchute is great option. Mudchute is open everyday from 9am to 5pm and entry is free.

Recommended by Ania, The Travelling Twins  

Closest DLR Stations: Mudchute, Crossharbour & Island Gardens.

Mudchute Farm website

Climb the O2

Fancy conquering one of London’s icons? Climbing the O2 is an easy, fun outdoor challenge without the need for ice axe or crampons.

The action takes place on a bouncy walkway at the 02 dome in Greenwich. You clip and unclip yourself all the way up so there’s lots to keep the children entertained. After a short video giving you the safety stuff, you venture up in small groups with your own climbing guide but you can take things at your own pace. (If you don’t mind holding up the person behind you.)

It will be a bit of a challenge if you’ve never done anything like it but afterwards you will boast of being a mountaineer. And as you go upwards to 52m above ground level you’ll get the best views of London .

Book ahead for your chosen slot, especially at busy times. I recommend a dusk adventure, where the changing light is most atmospheric. Or book an after dark tour to see the skyscrapers twinkle.

You can also book an experience where you enjoy a glass of champagne at the top. And look out for offers where you can bag a free hot chocolate. In winter you will need it – it’s chilly up there!

Recommended by Kirstie, The Family Adventure Project

Closest Tube: North Greenwich

The London IFS Cloud Cable Car

Our two nieces, 7 and 9, absolutely loved their surprise highlight to our London day out, a ‘flight’ on the IFS Cloud cable car . As the MBNA Thames Clipper rounded the river bend the suspense was lifted as the tall towers and suspended cable car ‘cabins’ popped into view.

With an IFS Cloud cabin all to ourselves the girls shrieked with excitement as we ‘took off’ climbing steeply upwards from the ground station near the O2 Arena. The ‘flight’ lasted 10 minutes, one way, giving us fantastic 360 degree views from 90m above the docks.

After delicious ice-cream cones at the far end, we caught the return flight back to the Greenwich Peninsula.

Recommended by: Darrin, What The Saints Did Next

Take a Thames River Cruise

The perfect way to get amazing views of London is on board a Thames River cruise . There are plenty of different operators along the river and different stops you can make along the way. Most typically run from the big tourist highlights of Embankment and Westminster, past the London Eye, Tate Modern, HMS Belfast and the Tower of London then under Tower Bridge (if you are lucky you may see the draw bridge in action!).

Next, cruise around to the more modern parts of East London to Canary Wharf and terminate your cruise at Greenwich , taking in a wonderful walk to the Royal Observatory.

Alternatively, opt for a longer cruise past the O2 Arena and as far as Woolwich to see the famous Thames Barriers , London’s flood defence system – a beautiful, fascinating and little known-gem of London.

Recommended by Keri, Little City Trips

Take a journey to Far Away Land s ays the slogan for London ’s attraction based at Country Hall by the River Thames. Shrek’s Adventure London is a walk and ride experience for family travellers beginning with a 4D bus ride, followed by DreamWorks animation , story-telling and audience participation.

If you love the bright green ogre and all his friends, as well as other Dreamworks animations such as How To Train Your Dragon , then this is a brilliant experience right in the heart of London and close to plenty of other attractions.

All tickets are allocated a time slot which allows for small groups to enter the attraction at different intervals – which is a great way to avoid the crowds. Expect lots of noise, flashing lights and humour.

Recommended by: Ting, My Travel Monkey

Closest Tube: Waterloo

Shrek’s Adventure Website

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About the author.

Katja Gaskell

9 thoughts on “the 2024 guide to the best of london with kids (+map)”.

I am a big fan of London, and wow! I had no idea there were so many things (including off-the-beaten-path) to do in London with kids!

Yes, there really is so much to do in London. You’ll have to try some of these suggestions out when you come back 🙂

that is an incredible list! WOW! Makes me want to take the kids right to London (They have been asking!)

Oooh! The Hive at Kew Gardens sounds intriguing!

It’s really amazing!

Woah such a great compilation. This has given me lots of ideas for our next trip to London.

Thanks! When are you next going to be in London?

Such a comprehensive guide Katja! One for the moment for sure!

Thanks Carrie!

Comments are closed.

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The Perfect 5 or 7 day London itinerary with kids

By: Author Wandermust Mummy

London is one of the greatest cities in the world to visit if you are traveling with kids in tow. I am a firm believer that cities can be a good holiday with children, if you plan for it correctly. As a London mum of a toddler I am lucky to have explored this city extensively and know the best things to do with kids in tow , while also understanding the need for good pacing when tackling a city the size of London. This 5 or 7 day London itinerary with kids shows the best that each area of London has to offer as well as offering insights into London hidden gems that should be on your bucket list  and best places to stay.

Note:  This itinerary is designed to be done in any order. The days are merely an indicator so feel free to mix this up as suits you best. This itinerary also does not allow for travel from Heathrow airport to London.  This London itinerary with family covers

• Best things to do in Central London (Covent Garden, Southbank etc)
• Best London Museums for Kids and exploring South Kensington
• Best London Boroughs to visit with families (i.e. Greenwich, Richmond etc)\
• Best London Attractions With kids to visit (London Eye, Tower of London, Buckingham Palace etc)
• Best Day Trips from London with kids to take and 
• Best way to travel around London  with kids. 

Table of Contents

Day one of your 7 day London itinerary with kids (or without)

Note : I have put this as Day One as the Changing of the Guard is not on every day. As a must on any London bucket list , you will not want to miss this. So if you only can do  London in a day with kids I would pick this one but dependent on your interests all of these could work.

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or try one of our favorite places for Breakfast in the city including:

• The Cereal Killer Cafe
• The Breakfast Club

Changing of the Guard

Watching the Changing of the Guard on your Ultimate London Itinerary with Kids

Today’s first stop is The Changing of the Guard. This ceremonial parade is a must do for any London visitor.

You can read more about the changing of the guard with kids here  – and this will give you all the best information about best places to watch the parade, arrival times and all other essential information.

Once the Changing of the Guard has finished, you may want to consider letting your littles go run off some steam at the Playground opposite Wellington Barracks (the starting point of the parade) There is also a cafe here should your little ones need a snack and is also a good place for a caffeine stop.

Buckingham Palace

Now Buckingham Palace is on everyone’s list for London. You can get some good pictures from the outside but depending on your interest and the time of year you are visiting you may want to book to look inside.  The Palace Staterooms are open over the summer (July-September) and then in December (occasional) – if you want a Winter itinerary for London check out this post. 

 The tour is definitely worthwhile doing especially for fans of royal history ! And for those traveling with small children, you don’t need to worry that this isn’t family friendly. The tour ends in the Garden and there is a lovely soft play area to let your smalls loose in.

As this is only open for such a limited time it is absolutely essential to book your tickets in advance – YOU CAN BOOK YOUR TICKETS ONLINE HERE

Buckingham Palace on your London 5 day itinerary family will enjoy

If time allows, we also recommend visiting the Royal Mews where you can visit the State Carriages and also meet the Queen’s Horses, a sure fire hit with kids.  There are also some great hands on activities for children here which including a dressing up box and a craft table.

You can book your royal mews tickets in advance HERE 

St James Park 

Once you have finished at the Palace it is worth heading back through St James Park to head towards Westminster which is where you will be spending your afternoon.  In the park, you will definitely want to stop and see the pelicans who are residents in the park.

For the budget conscious, you could consider having a picnic lunch in the park otherwise you can head towards Trafalgar Square for a quick cafe lunch.

Also, if time permits, you will want to make a quick stop at Horse Guards.

Churchill War Rooms 

This afternoon we recommend making your first stop the Churchill War Rooms (this is more suitable for older children and adults than those traveling with small children). This is really the best place in the country to learn about Britain during WW2. The Churchill War Rooms are right opposite St James Park and in there you will learn about Winston Churchill and the operational work that happened in this bunker.

You will find advance booking essential, especially as you get a better rate by booking in advance.

Parliament Square and the Houses of Parliament

london with kids itinerary – Houses of Parliament

Parliament Square and the Houses of Parliament is just a short walk from the Churchill War Rooms. It isn’t looking its best at the moment as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are currently being renovated. Be warned the renovations on Big Ben mean that barring New Year’s Eve you will not hear the bells chime until 2021. However it is still worth a visit on your trip.

Tours are available and are definitely worthwhile for adults visiting. There is a family friendly audio guide but this is aimed at minimum age 7, so if you are traveling with smaller children, I would recommend just admiring from outside.

Across the road is the beautiful

Westminster Abbey

Opening times for the Abbey vary so you will want to check opening times and tweak this order to make sure you allocate enough time.  The queues can get long here so get your tickets in advance HERE!

After all that exploring head to your final area of the day: Trafalgar Square.

Trafalgar Square

The fourth plinth means that there is always something new to see in the square and if time allows you could nip inside the National Gallery.

Enjoy a dinner in the area and if you are inclined to see a show, then you are in the right area for the theatres. Our favorite theatre shows for traveling with small children are Matilda, Aladdin and the Lion King.

For those traveling with older kids or without children we recommend visiting the longest running play,  The Mousetrap,  by Agatha Christie, a gripping whodunnit which is typically British.

To check out London Theatre Tickets and to make your reservations CLICK HERE

Day 2 of your London with kids itinerary – East London

For Day 2 of your London with kids itinerary we are celebrating all things East London. If you fancy a posh breakfast, a great place in the vicinity of today’s attraction is the lovely Duck and Waffle restaurant with it’s signature dish – Duck and Waffle.

After Breakfast you will head to your first stop of the day:

Tower of London

The Tower of London has so much on offer and it is hard to put a time on how long you will spend there. It is the place to learn about London’s more grizzly history including the beheading of two of Henry VIII’s wives (Anne Boleyn and Katherine of Howard) and about the mysterious disappearance and murder of the Princes in the Tower to name but a few.

It is definitely worth taking the tour (included in the ticket price), with one of the Yeoman Warder who can reveal fascinating insights on the Tower and its history. These tours last an hour and leave every 30 minutes. Be warned however that these can get busy so we recommend doing this as soon as you arrive to avoid the crowds.

Other worthwhile stops on your tour of the Tower of London include the armory, the chapel and of course visiting the Crown Jewels Exhibition.

Advance booking is essential. You can buy your tickets in advance , including Crown Jewel exhibition here.

After a quick lunch we recommend heading over to

Tower Bridge

This iconic bridge is an engineering triumph and has a fascinating exhibition at the top.  If you are lucky you may get to see the bridge open while you are there.

Advance booking is essential. You can buy your tickets online HERE

After your trip to Tower Bridge your next stop is the beautiful

This is a free attraction but advance booking of tickets is essential. The Sky Garden offers great views across London, and rivals the Shard for views and is even better being free.

Click here to book online for free! 

If you have time a bonus stop today is

The Monument

The Monument was resurrected in memory of the Great Fire of London of 1666. The walk to the top of the Monument is not for the faint hearted as it is 311 steps to the top.  Suitable only for adults and older children, this also offers great views of the city without the Shard price tag.

For dinner tonight, we recommend heading to Brick Lane for a curry. Our personal favorite on Brick Lane is Aladdin’s but there is plenty of choice and you can’t leave the UK without trying a curry.

For adventurous eaters head to brick lane for a curry

Day 3 of your London family vacation itinerary (or without) – Day Trip Day

Today in your London family vacations itinerary is allocated as your day trip day. While there is loads to see in London, so much that even me as long time resident still haven’t seen everything, I still think it is worthwhile to head outside the city for at least a day.

If you a traveling with a Harry Potter fan then the Harry Potter Studio Tour is really the only day trip you should be considering doing. This books up months in advance. It is imperative to book these tickets in advance with plenty of notice! 

If you don’t manage to book these tickets in advance then I recommend consoling your Harry Potter fan with a day trip to Oxford.  You can visit the Oxford Colleges which is very interesting in itself but Harry Potter fans will recognize it as Hogwarts filming locations.

Either way you should start your day at Kings Cross to take the iconic platform 9 and 3/4 photograph. The queue for this can get crazy busy so you will want to be there early.

Our other favourite day trips from London with or without kids are:

• Hampton Court Palace – the royal residence of Henry VII which is overflowing with fun attractions for all the family – read our full review here. 
• Windsor – another must for royal fans! You can read our Windsor Essential Guide here.
• Harry Potter Studio Tour

or if you are looking for beach access then

• Brighton is the day trip for you.

Other day trip options from London include Bath and Stonehenge and the Cotswolds.

If you want to know which d ay trips are best in Winter click here.

Day 4 itinerary for London with kids – The Southbank

Day 4 of your itinerary for London with kids is all about Central London in particular the Southbank area. One of my favourite areas in the city. 

london itinerary with toddler

Note: The walk along the Southbank takes in many attractions so depending on what interests you will depend on how many stops you take.

If you are traveling with small children, I definitely recommend taking your stroller today.

Start by having breakfast at Borough Market. This is a London foodie gem. Film buffs will recognize this as the location of Bridget Jone’s flat. Borough Market has existed in some form or another since the 13 th   Century and even the fussiest eater will find something they love with over 100 stalls setting up shop there. Going early is essential as the crowds, especially at lunchtime can get big.

After you have fueled up, head out of the market and walk West. The walk along the Thames is beautiful and you can stop at:

The Golden Hinde Replica

This is a reconstruction of the ship that belonged to Sir Francis Drake. It is great that you can climb aboard and for London it isn’t too busy an attraction.

Nearby is also the famous  Clink Prison.  You can’t fail to notice the Clink as outside there is a large skeleton hanging in a cage. Not a museum in the most traditional sense and a bit gruesome (so not one for those traveling with small children). The museum offers a gruesome insight into some of the prisoners who had been held there.

The next impressive stop on your walk is  Shakespeare’s Globe.  The Globe is a reconstruction of Shakespeare’s open air theatre and offers daily performances of Shakespeare. I recommend coming back here tonight with older children to see a show as you really get a feel for what Tudor theatre was like as you stand to watch the show. If you don’t want to watch a full play however you can always take one of the guided tours instead. In school holidays you will find there are dedicated family tours so it is worth checking availability in advance.

The next big icon on your walk will be the Tate Modern.  This industrial building is hard to miss on the London skyline.

The infamous Millennium Bridge is just outside the Tate and is worth a quick walk. The view from either side of the Bridge is breathtaking and I recommend making time in your Day to do it. If you want to dart across to St Paul’s if time allows this is the time to do so.

The Tate Museum has free entry so if you have enough time and inclination then it is worth jumping into the museum. The museum is the modern art museum of London and has some of the world’s best known modern artists on display and the Turbine Hall has a temporary exhibition space which has some of the most interesting and sometimes controversial exhibits. There are family trails and at weekends and school holidays plenty of family friendly activities.

Even if art isn’t your thing it is worth heading to the Chimney Viewing Deck. This offers great views of the City of London including St Paul’s Cathedral and best of all it is free.

The next stop is the Southbank Centre. You can’t miss it because it is hideous. A brutalist building which however is home to a stretch of family friendly restaurants. This is a great place to come for lunch or dinner. Our favourites include Giraffe and Wahaca

From there you head to the busiest stretch of the South Bank. The busiest place on this section is of course

The London Eye

London itinerary for families – London Eye

Originally only a temporary structure made for the Millennium, the structure proved so popular that is still stands today. Not the highest view in London but the eye offers great views across the city including some of the best views of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. For small children, the 45 minute revolution might be a little boring but older children will enjoy picking out the landmarks and it is a must for any adult visitor to the city.

Pre booking tickets is a must to try and avoid the queue!

For those traveling with children, there is a lovely playground  which is a great place to blow off steam.

Also of interest for those traveling with children will be the stretch of Merlin attractions along the Southbank:

Top Tip:      If you are planning to visit several London attractions from Merlin Entertainments group  these include: Shrek’s Adventure! London, Madame Tussaud’s London, Sea life London Aquarium, The Coca-Cola London Eye and The London Dungeon it will save you a TON of money to buy the group ticket – you can buy the Merlin Magical London ticket here!

Depending on your children and your tastes I would recommend finishing your day by doing one of the above.

5 days in London with kids – Museums Galore

If you are planning to do a London 5 day itinerary family will enjoy then you can pick any of the days it notes have to be day one to day 5. 

Note : Today is the celebration of all things cultural as you head to South Kensington as no 5 days in London with kids would be completed without hitting one of the capital’s famous museums. The below are the best picks for those traveling with children but if you aren’t traveling with children or with older kids I would recommend spending the morning or afternoon at British Museum, Sir John Soanes Museum which are in different locations or adding the V&A to the below list.

This day is also perfect if you are due to have a rainy day in London!  

If you are traveling with small children the two museums in South Kensington I recommend are the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum. Both of them have brilliant hands on areas and depending on your interests depends how long you will spend in each.

Note: if you are in London in December then the natural history museum ice rink has to make it into your Christmas itinerary.

the museums are also excellent for the older traveller especially the dinosaur and geology exhibits as the Natural History Museum and the Making Modern World galleries at the Science Museum.

Looking for books for children visiting the London museums? Check our this post! 

For lunch I recommend heading to the Lebanese restaurant, Comptoir Lebanese near the Tube Station or heading into the Mews House Streets and to the beautiful pub the Queens Arms – my favorite pub in London.

After lunch, head to Kensington Palace. Adults will love viewing the exhibits on show at the Palace, the current home of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. For those traveling with younger children, the Diana Memorial Playground is an absolute must and you will struggle to drag them away.

For tonight’s dinner we recommend heading to Covent Garden where there are plenty of child friendly restaurants and kids will love watching the street performers in the piazza.

Day 6 of 7 days in London family itinerary (or without) – West London

Today on your London Family Itinerary you are heading out west on the District Line, to my end of London and my favorite place

Kew Gardens

London family itinerary – Kew Gardens

This beautiful botanic garden offers acres of floral splendor. A favorite is a walk in the iconic glass houses including the tropical Palm House while children will love taking the train round the grounds and walking the Treetop Walkway.

In holidays and weekends there are plenty of family friendly activities. A recent favorite of ours has been watching aromatic performances in the glass house.

For those that want to spend the day in the garden, you can also go into Kew Palace, a royal historic palace in the grounds of the gardens.

For a complete guide on things to do in Kew Gardens with kids check out this guide! 

You can have a picnic in the garden on a nice day or head to one of the eateries inside the ground otherwise you can head into the nearby Richmond (walk or bus) where there are lots of restaurants.

You can spend the rest of the day walking around this historic town and why not hire a boat and have a jaunt on the river.

Day 7 of your 7 day London itinerary with kids (or without) – Maritime Greenwich

The last day of your 7 day London itinerary. Today we are heading to Maritime Greenwich in East London.

The best way to get to Greenwich is to hop on one of the boats and head down the river. Otherwise you can hop on the tube.

Start your day exploring the restored  Cutty Sark.  This historic tea clipper is a must for any Greenwich visit. Being able to climb aboard and see under this ship is a visit not to be missed.

For lunch head to the covered markets of Greenwich.  And do a final bit of souvenir shopping.

After lunch head to the National Maritime Museum.  Kids will love the giant map in the foyer while adults will enjoy learning about Britain’s maritime history.

Another must while you are in Greenwich is to head to and then jump the Greenwich Meridian line.  Striding the Greenwich Meridian line means that you can be in both the Eastern and Western hemispheres at the same time. A really unique thing to end your trip to London on

Where to Stay in for this London itinerary for families

If you are looking for the best places to stay to complete this London itinerary for families then we have put some suggestions in each price bracket to help you make your choice.

Luxury Hotels

Our favorite luxury hotels that are both couple and family friendly are:

Conrad St James

My favorite hotel breakfast in the world. It is a great location and very family friendly

You can book online here!  

Aldwych one

I love this hotel especially its pool with the underwater music.  It also has a great Charlie and the chocolate factory themed afternoon tea.

You can book online here! 

Shangri La at the Shard

If you want to stay in a bucket list worthy hotel in London then this is the one for you.

You can check availability and prices here

You can compare prices here

Mid-Range Hotel Options 

Premier Inn

This chain hotel offers comfortable rooms in an ideal setting for exploration. For more information on the best premier inn to stay in London check out this post.

you can compare prices here! 

MidRange:  Hilton London Tower Bridge

This mid range hotel is situated perfectly to explore some of London’s greatest icons.

Kensington Marriott

Kensington is a great pace for those traveling with children.

You can check availability and prices here! 

For a more complete guide to the best London neighbourhoods and hotels to stay in click here. 

How to get around London with kids or without

London underground.

The Underground is one of the busiest underground systems in the world and dates back over 150 years. As such not all of the stations and lines are accessible and can be difficult to navigate with a stroller.We recommend picking up a London Underground map and looking for the disability symbol at the station as this shows which stations are accessible with strollers. Also be sure to check the TFL website before traveling to look for any train closures or delays. No visit to London is complete without riding the underground. To pay on the Underground you can use contactless card or pick up an Oyster card.

If you want more information about London with a baby then check out this post!

DO YOU NEED A CAR SEAT IN A UK TAXI? 

UK law  states that when travelling in taxis children under three may travel without a car seat. However I never travel without a car seat so we never take a taxi with our little one. If you know that you can store a car seat at your destination or perhaps have a convertible car seat stroller then this may be something you decide to do.

You could try booking a car in advance however with a company that provides car seats but this will obviously mean you have to keep to a tighter schedule.

LONDON BUSES 

Depending on the age of the bus will depend how accessible they are with a stroller. Modern buses have stroller parking but if busy you will have to fold it. London buses are a great way to get around the city while still seeing the sights.

TFL FERRIES

Ferries can be used with your Oyster card and are a great way to see many of the London sights in relative comfort.

LONDON HOP ON HOP OFF BUSES

We have always loved a Hop On Hop Off bus. They are a great way to see the main sights of a city but can be difficult to use especially in the summer. Be sure to have a compact stroller or a carrier if you are planning on using.

Looking for things to make baby travel easier? Then check out this post!

TAXIS AND UBER

Taxis in London can be expensive especially the Black cabs and in London traffic. London Black Cabs are exempt from car seat laws and are the only taxis in London that can be hailed.

Uber is currently still available in London but doesn’t’ provide car seats. If you want some recommendations for car seats for toddlers when travelling check out this post.

FAQs about this London with kids itinerary 

Does this work as a london itinerary with toddler.

This itinerary will absolutely work as a London itinerary with toddler in tow. In fact we lived in London with a toddler and did all of these things. However if you want some more information about visiting London with babies or toddlers check out this post for some specifically designed toddler activities. 

Tell us have you spent 7 days in London? What was your family trip to london itinerary? What were your highlights?

Further Reading: 

• 50 + things to do in London with kids 
• 4 Day London Itinerary 
• London Bucket List 
• UK Bucket List
• 50 Things to do on a Rainy Day in London
• Hampton Court Day Trip 
• Guide to Visiting London with a Baby or Toddler 
• Children’s Books set in London

Monday 1st of July 2019

London is one of my favourite cities anywhere. A number of great itineraries here which take you all over this fabulous city..

Deborah Patterson

Wednesday 26th of June 2019

That's the essentials covered! I'm a Londoner (though don't live there now) and still haven't seen everything there is to see. With little kids one area and museum I'd definitely add is Covent Garden to watch the shows and go to the London Transport Museum. I also always recommend the playground in Kensington Gardens after a trip to the Science or Natural History Museums for a picnic and for the kids to let off steam.

We'll certainly be spending some time in the city this summer...we've not done the Tower of London with our kids yet, so I think that's going on the list. #fearlessfamtrav

the Curious Pixie

Such a fab and comprehensive itinerary. So handy for families! #fearlessfamtrav

Tuesday 25th of June 2019

It always the way isn’t it, I’ve not been to half these places despite living close to London! #Fearlessfamtrav

This is a great itinerary! We have not taken the kids to London yet but it is high on our bucket list. I will definitely be referencing this when we plan our trip. And I'm definitely with you- I'm not comfortable not having our kids in carseats so we don't really travel by taxi. #fearlessfamtrav

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101 best things to do in London with kids

Get set for family fun with our round-up of exciting events, activities and other things to do for children in London

There's a pretty much limitless array of fun to be had in London, whatever age you are. But this city is extra good for young 'uns, whether you're after theatre shows to blow their minds, free kid-friendly museums to get them learning without realising it, or leftfield activities that they'll be raving about for weeks afterwards, or just a really, really top-notch playground. Everyone from hyperactive toddlers to cynical teens will find something to get excited about.

If you’ve got a bit of cash to spend then you can enjoy a glorious day out at the world-famous likes of London Zoo or the London Aquarium. But if you’re on a budget there’s plenty to do that’s free. London is full of   outdoor  options, from high-concept adventure playgrounds to gorgeous open parks, as well as other  family-friendly spots that are free to visit, stretching your budget further for those must-do attractions that aren’t. 

RECOMMENDED: Let the kids loose on these incredible adventure playgrounds

An email you’ll actually love

Best things to do in London with kids

1.  Catch up on the Secret Life of Reptiles and Amphibians at ZSL

• Zoos and aquariums
• Regent’s Park

London Zoo is always refreshing itself: a couple of years after the opening of the massive walkthrough Monkey Valley enclosure – still highly recommended – its big new exhibit for 2024 is The Secret Life of Reptiles and Amphibians, a massive upgrade to the old Reptile House designed to offer its cold-blooded denizens the most perfect habitats possible.

2.  Journey through the history of childhood at Young V&A

• Bethnal Green

Following a £13m refurbishment, the former V&A Museum of Childhood reopened its doors in 2023, and it really is a dream. The beautifully designed building heaves with thoughtfully laid out displays of centuries of toys and childhood objects, there are state-of-the-art interactive displays galore, plus a banging cafe. An essential visit for pretty much anyone under the age of 14.

3.  Explore the complete history of video games

• Things to do
• Games and hobbies
• South Kensington Until 27 Nov 2027

If your kids have any interest whatsoever in computer games then the ‘Power Up’ exhibition at the Science Museum is less a nice idea than a London essential. Formerly a visiting exhibition but now permanent, it comprises over 160 computers and consoles – from a ‘Pong’ machine to PCs – that nominally take you on a history of gaming from the ’70s to the present. In practice, it’s a glorious morning, afternoon or whole day playing games. You have to pay, but an annual pass is a steal at £15.

4.  Stroke a starfish at the London Aquarium

In the grand County Hall on the South Bank, a vast aquarium of sharks, turtles, sea dragons and penguins are waiting to be gawped at. Part of the Sea Life chain, it’s a smoothly run, busy operation with several themed zones devoted to all kinds of aquatic environments, including a Thames walk. One of the highlights has to be the ‘ocean invaders’ section, which includes the largest jellyfish experience in Britain. There’s also the opportunity to ‘pet’ various rockpool creatures including seas anemones and starfish.

5.  Explore Paddington’s London

• South Bank 31 May 2024 30 Mar 2025

This permanent interactive Paddington Bear experience will open at the end of May 2024 and not before time. Journey through the polite young bear’s London and enjoy a marmalade party at the Browns.

6.  Play a giant game of Monopoly

‘Lifesized Monopoly’ is exactly what the title suggests, with you playing human-sized pieces traversing the board and undertaking challenges as you land on various ‘squares’. There are multiple different boards with multiple different sets of rules – some very much aimed at adults – but families will be eyeing up the Classic Board, suitable for anyone aged over nine.

7.  Escape Execution at the London Dungeons

Since it opened in 1974 the London Dungeons has managed to stay at the absolute cutting edge of shameless luridity via a series of rides and rooms based around the more macabre elements of our city’s history. Always moving with the times, the current iteration includes an escape room: in ‘Escape Execution’ you have just one hour to bust out of the Tower of London before your head is lopped off. 

For over-12s only.

8.  Ride shotgun in the Millennium Falcon with Chewie

The Star Wars gallery at Madame Tussauds is one of the last things you see on an extensive tour through history and popular culture and what a finale. Working with Lucas Films, Tussauds have recreated scenes from them in key scenes from various Star Wars films and populated them with wax models of the heroes and villains. Meet Yoda in a musty-smelling swamp, take a selfie sitting alongside Han Solo in the canteen, and get up close to Darth Vader and Luke as they go to battle. Star Wars obsession will be delighted to know the attention to detail is spot on. 

9.  Take in a toddler-friendly mini theme park

• Theme parks
• Camden Town

Did you know there’s a sci-fi theme park under Camden Market? Having opened in late 2022, the Babylon Park is part of a small international chain of mini-amusement parks that packs in a number of kiddie-friendly rides – rollercoaster, ferris wheel, bumper cars – and supplements them with games stalls, VR simulators, a couple of scarier rides for the teens, and some toddler-friendly rides for the pre-schoolers. 

10.  Play shops in the fish market section of the National Maritime Museum’s Ahoy!

• Military and maritime

The NMM’s gallery especially for babies and young children is all about fun. Ahoy! features many different play zones including a beach and a ship deck, plus a game firing cannons and another that is a bit like air hockey. The fish shop is ace –rows of pretend fish, cash tills and shopping baskets. There’s also the All Hands exploration gallery for ages 6-12.

Free, but check if open as closed by the pandemic, though due to reopen some time after July 19 2021. 

11.  Watch a girl swung around by her pigtails at Matilda

In the RSC’s hugely successful adaptation of Roald Dahl’s fantasy, a fine cast of young actors bring Tim Minchin’s smart, funny songs to life, as a little girl with supernatural powers shows us how bright children can survive stupid adults. Dahl’s gruesome humour is reflected in cartoon violence that is here magically recreated in a dynamic and colourful style. Happily, without harm to a single real pigtail…

Ages six and above

12.  Defeat the Crystal Maze

These days many parents will probably only dimly remember the original ‘The Crystal Maze’ from their own childhoods. But though he makes a taped appearance in ‘The Crystal Maze Live’, you don’t need to be nostalgic for the Richard O’Brien era to enjoy this version of the classic game show in which you and your team forage for crystals in a number of timed, themed challenges. It’s open to children aged nine or over, though they must be accompanied by adults.

13.  Quaff butterbeer at Hogwarts

Seven books, eight films and one play down the line, the world has lost none of its appetite for all things Harry Potter-related. Which is why Warner Bros are keeping the Hogwarts magic alive with their special exhibition, ‘The Making of Harry Potter.’ The props, sets and costumes have been lovingly maintained and fans will be in heaven here. Step into the iconic locations: the Great Hall at Hogwarts, Diagon Alley and, of course, Platform 9¾. You can also get your chops around a flagon of butterbeer (don’t worry, it’s kid-friendly), and if you fancy taking a souvenir home, you can purchase a wand.

14.  Learn to swordfight at Shakespeare's Globe

• Shakespeare

During the school holidays the iconic Globe boasts a wealth of tours, workshops and other family activities, but let’s be honest, none sound quite so fun as the family sword fighting demonstration, wherein the theatre’s fight team talks you through the world of Elizabethan weaponry and give you a close-up demo of how it was wielded. You’re absolutely not going to be allowed to have an actual fight, but you’ll be allowed to handle the weapons and pose for selfies.

15.  Look at gross things in jars at the Hunterian Museum

• Science and technology

The Hunterian Museum houses one of the oldest collections of anatomical, pathological and zoological specimens in the UK and is based on the items assembled by John Hunter, surgeon and anatomist (1728-1793). Older children will find this fascinating – kids of all ages will enjoy gawping at centuries of pickled creatures and other all-time historical curios. 

16.  Harness up to scale a landmark with Up at the O2

This is not for faint-hearted kids: a climb over the roof of The O2. Start by emptying pockets of anything that might fall onto pedestrians below, harness up, clip yourself to a central handrail and head up to the 52m summit. It’s steep at the beginning and end of the climb, but with a chance to walk around at the top and facilities for wheelchair users, it’s a fabulous experience.

Ages ten and above

17.  Enjoy a themed kids’ afternoon tea

There are about a million esoteric afternoon tea options in London, and that includes several fun kids’ variants that are worth whiling a couple of hours away on. The Ampersand Hotel in Kensington boasts a Jurassic afternoon tea , complete with an erupting volcano; One Aldwych’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory afternoon tea  and the Sanderson’s Little Hatters afternoon tea  heave with inventive sweet things inspired by classic kids stories; tuck into jigsaw-shaped sandwiches at the Langham Hotel.

18.  Zap some VR zombies

• Arcades and amusements
• Oxford Street

The future is here, kind of, with slick immersive gaming experience Sandbox VR. Teams of two to six don helmets, shoulder rifles and step into a virtual world where they’re generally charged with zapping something or other (there are six games to choose from). It’s a perfect way for teens and older tweens to let off some steam – just be aware an adult is required to sign a waiver and remain on the premises throughout, though they don’t have to play.

19.  Get building at the world’s biggest Lego store

• Toys and games
• Leicester Square

The Leicester Square Lego store is more than just a very big shop – although it really  is  very big, its two-floor expanse making it the biggest Lego store in the actual entire world. But aside from having basically the entire current range of the plastic bricks in at all times – plus some extremely nifty London-themed giant sculptures –, the play tables and copious supply of bricks on the top floor mean well-behaved children can enjoy a play session between purchases – about as pleasant as shopping with kids in central London gets.

20.  Experience the eighth Harry Potter adventure, only on stage

• 4 out of 5 stars
• Charing Cross Road Until 2 Mar 2025
• Recommended

The stage is the only place you can see the eighth and (probably) final Harry Potter adventure ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’, a gloriously theatrical coda to the books that sees Harry’s son Albus travel back to key moments from the novels. 

21.  Throw some shapes with Big Fish Little Fish

Get your little’uns raving early with the help of Big Fish Little Fish, the ‘2-4 hour party people’. This teeny-bopper disco crew host parties all over London, as well as festivals, especially for children. That’s not to say parents can’t enjoy themselves, too. The music is pleasantly un-annoying (think 90s dance, rather than that Bob the Builder single) and when you want a break from dancing there are workshops on offer, too, like synth playing, hula hooping and more. Phew.

Various venues

22.  Commandeer a wigwam at the Diana Memorial Playground

• Playgrounds

Just next to the regal Kensington Palace, this play area has a Peter Pan theme and a fabulous wooden pirate ship as its centrepiece. It's specially designed to suit children of all physical abilities and the playground includes a beach, sculptures, teepees for make-believe games, and even a sensory trail. It’s free to enjoy, but be aware that at busy times there might be a queue to get in.

Under-13s  Free

23.  Ride a Shetland pony across Richmond Park with Stag Lodge Stables

• Richmond Park

View the lush beauty of Richmond Park and Wimbledon Common from horseback. Situated in the former, Stag Lodge Stables provide horse rides for visitors of all ages and abilities. And if your willing rider is too frightened or small for the big horses, they can ride a more manageable (and adorable) Shetland pony (ages 3-6 only).

Ages three and above

24.  Splash about in the Science Museum's water play area

• South Kensington

Let's be honest, small children don't really get that amused or inspired looking at exhibits like their parent counterparts. But no worries - the Science Museum's  hands-on galleries are ready to save the day.  The Garden is a free play zone where young’uns can don aprons and play with waterways and boats, jump around exploring light and shadows and discover the science of sound through all kinds of fun activities.

Ages three to six. At time of update then due to coronavirus children are restricted to 20-minute slots that must be booked in advance. Free

25.  Squeeze into the Barbican’s Squish Space

The Barbican Centre basically has every form of entertainment you could possibly imagine, and that includes the artistically designed creative play area Squish Space, which is full of fascinating objects for under-fives to play with and explore. After a brief closure, it will reopen in September 2023 with a more environmentally-focused theme. It’s free, but booking online is essential.

26.  Explore vintage tube carriages and iconic London buses at Walthamstow Pumphouse Museum

• Walthamstow

This Grade II-listed former Victorian waste water pumping station stopped sloshing around sewage a while ago and is now home to something far more palatable. Hidden inside are trains, planes and various other landmark automobiles that are some of the firsts of their kind. See  original steam engines from the Victorian era, a huge collection of fire engines which include machines going back to 1800, explore 1960s tube carriages and a  model of the iconic London ‘B’ type bus and watch a  model railway depicting the Chingford to Liverpool Street line from the steam era, as well as other  technology, transport and industrial history of Walthamstow and the Lea Valley. 

27.  Go to a family-friendly, pay-what-you-can screening at the Garden Cinema

• Film events
• Trafalgar Square Until 29 Dec 2024

The whole ethos of Covent Garden’s Garden Cinema is that all its screenings are carefully curated, only showing films that the staff think are actually good and enjoy themselves, and this spirit continues into its family programming. Its Saturday and Sunday morning screenings (plus weekdays during the school holidays) are relaxed affairs showing some of the best family classics ever recorded. There are seasonal themes – expect to see Christmas classics and Halloween faves at the appropriate time – and every screening is followed by a free creative activity for children. What’s more, the screenings are Pay What You Can and there’s an allocation of free, subsidised tickets for each screening (just email [email protected]) to enquire.

28.  Nurture a budding nature lover at Kew’s Children’s Garden

• Parks and gardens

There’s many a natural wonder to be enjoyed at Kew, from the magnificent treetop walk with a bird’s-eye view over the park to the not-so-sweet, rare flowering titan arum plant (no seriously, hold your nose). But if you have younger visitors in tow, head to the huge Children’s Garden. The size of 40 tennis courts, it’s packed with hidden play areas themed around earth, air, sun and water – all the things plants need to grow. 

Ages two to 12 – at time of update, booking a 60-minute slot was essential

29.  Inspire a mini maestro at Bach to Baby

Not all children’s entertainment has to be corny and colourful, as Bach to Baby proves. Trained musicians perform child-friendly classical concerts in spaces all over London. Toddlers are free to get and up move about and babies are contented to sit on laps as the classical music floats around them. 

Various London locations  

30.  Join the stars of the show on stage at the Chickenshed Theatre

• Cockfosters

Most activities in London are aimed at ages 3+, but at Chickenshed’s lively ‘Tales from the Shed’ shows, being wee is a bonus. Parents, babies and toddlers sit on the floor or on chairs to watch gentle adventures unfold in song and storytelling. Cuddly puppets and colourfully costumed actors are frequently joined by toddlers wandering into the action from the audience. In fact it’s encouraged!

Ages 0-6 

31.  Sail the Thames Nipper at the London Transport Museum

• Covent Garden

Covent Garden’s LTM is a joyful place and it’s brand new All Aboard play area for babies and under-8s takes the hands-on experience even further. Wannabe bus drivers can get behind the wheel of a real bus, ‘repair’ a mini tube train, or ‘sail’ on the Thames Nipper, a recreation of the Thames Clipper riverboat service. There’s even a make-believe buskers spot, making for some pretty cute videos that you can play back to your kid's friends in years to come.

32.  Discover what the green ogre did next at Shrek's Adventure

A wacky misadventure at County Hall, Shrek’s Adventure! London is a genuinely fun, new immersive experience. When your 4D bus tour ‘crash lands’ in a strangely familiar swamp, you (yes, adults as well as kids) have to work as a team to solve puzzles and get home again. On your quest you’ll meet everyone from Princess Fiona and Donkey to Puss in Boots and a host of other Shrek heroes (and villains). Great fun.

33.  Make stories come to life at Discover

• Cultural centres

London’s dedicated Children’s Story Centre is a colourful gallery inspired by children’s books, with special exhibitions and events linked to favourite authors and illustrators. Children can play inside and outside, with places to hide, treasure to seek out and the chance to fire young imaginations to create their own stories.  From £5

34.  Become a family of artists

Through the year, the Royal Academy runs a series of free creative activities inviting children (including those with special educational needs) to explore visual art, while Art Detectives trails gives them a chance to explore the galleries and see great works of art form their own perspective. Once a month there’s a free, drop-in Family Studios session on a Sunday (11am-3pm) which explores a theme in more depth, with hands-on crafts and other activities like music-making and dressing up. Check the website for the next date and theme: it’s been suspended during the pandemic but should be on its way back.

35.  Unearth a real fossil at the Grant Museum

This zoological museum – the only one of its kind in London – seems like it's been here for a century or more. Such is the transporting effect of seeing avenues of display cases stuffed to the gunnels with animal skeletons, taxidermy specimens and creatures preserved in fluid, like a true Victorian wunderkammer. From a jar of tiny moles to a huge elephant skull, there is plenty here to draw gasps of amazement. Don't turn up too early, though; the museum opens its doors from 1pm to 5pm, Monday through Saturday (and temporarily closed until autumn 2023).

36.  Scale a skyscraper at Clip ’n Climb

Give your furniture a break and take the kids to a proper climbing centre. Clip ’n Climb in Chelsea is a colourful landscape of specially designed climbing walls suitable for various ages and levels of ability. Completely safe for beginners, with challenges including ‘The Skyscraper’, ‘Jungle Gym’ and ‘Vertical Drop Slide’, this is a brilliant place for restless little monkeys to gain confidence clambering, climbing and dropping.

Ages four and above

37.  Burn some energy at Barnard Park Adventure Playground

This purpose-built adventure playground for kids in Islington provides hours of fun. There’s a huge, fort-like structure that can be climbed, hidden in and run around. There’s a water feature for warmer days, a fire pit for chillier ones, as well as football and basketball pitches. Plus, arts and crafts classes are held regularly. See their website before heading down to find out what’s on.

Ages six to 13  Free

38.  Hone your wheel skills at BaySixty6

This skate park under the Westway is a brilliant mix of street cool and great organisation (reassuring for parents who don’t want to spend hours in A&E). Friendly and encouraging, they offer regular beginner sessions but also plenty of challenging thrills for experienced skaters, BMX bikers and professional scooters at an excellent purpose-built skatescape. Perfect for kids who want to mix it with older riders who’ve acquired serious smarts.

39.  Encounter an Iguanodon in Crystal Palace Park

Not far from Crystal Palace Overground station is the famous park. Once upon a time this lush green space down south was a cultural haven for Victorians. Sports, music and art all took happened here, and when people weren’t attending one of those events, they were most likely marvelling a the full-scale model dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures, which have been there since 1854. Thanks to an ongoing restoration project, the dinos are still going strong, even if charmingly little out of date scientifically. Elsewhere in the park you’ll find a farm and a maze.

40.  Visit the (deliberately) stinky streets and dark alleyways of Sailortown at the Museum of London Docklands

This free museum has a dedicated gallery (Mudlarks) for small children, but it’s worth visiting the main galleries, for the huge model of the old London Bridge and a walk-through recreation of the docklands in Victorian times. Hear the noises, smell the scents and peer into the shadowy alleyways. Gaze through the window of the chandler’s shop and see inside an old East End boozer.

41.  Get some 1960s-style strikes in at Bloomsbury Bowling Lanes

A central location and impressively-stocked bar attract hoards of grown-ups to Bloomsbury Bowling Lanes in the evenings, but before 8pm the kids are welcome to take over. The retro lanes and karaoke rooms can be booked for parties or family outings and lunch can be had in the American diner-styled booths. It’s worth noting, though, that the bowling lanes don’t have bumpers.

42.  Visit London’s weirdest sweet shop

This unique gift shop wouldn’t be out of place on the set of Harry Potter, what with its fully-stocked shelves of ‘Impacted Earwax’ and ‘Night Terrors’. Naturally, everything is edible – and thankfully not a trace of actual earwax in sight – with sweet treats hiding behind the ominous black and white packaging. Clotted cream fudge, boiled sweets and flavoured sea salt are just some of the delicious items awaiting you, plus t-shirts and stationery.

Ages five and above

43.  Become a knight in shining armour at the Wallace Collection

This free-to-visit museum is a wonderful old house filled with fine art, furniture, porcelain and gold boxes. The galleries include famous masterpieces such as ‘The Laughing Cavalier’, and curiosities – the staircase decorated with gold coins was originally made for the Royal Bank of France. The Arms and Armour collection fascinates pint-sized warriors and can be explored during the regular free family activity sessions at weekends. All ages 

44.  Sleep under a skeleton at the Natural History Museum

Dino Snores, a monthly sleepover at the Natural History Museum, is incredibly popular. It’s usually sold out a couple of months in advance, so get booking if you want to get your little ’uns in. But it’s hardly surprising when you find out what’s involved. Guided by museum team members, kids will get to explore the galleries with torches, enjoy a live science show, make their own dino tees to take home and camp in sleeping bags beneath the blue whale in the foyer.

Ages seven to 11 (adult accompaniment required). 

45.  Wild swim in the city

Beckenham Place Park’s much-hyped £6.8m overhaul led to farcical initial scenes: its new swimming lake proved to be too popular, resulting it in being shut down for a bit while its paddling beach was removed. These days, though, it’s a good spot for affordable, well-regulated wild swimming sessions for ages eight and above, plus kayaking.

46.  Watch magical puppetry at the Little Angel Theatre

This is a fabulous place to take children for some of the best puppet shows you’re likely to see. They offer a busy programme of productions throughout the year, and at weekends and during school holidays there are activities in the new Studios Space. Here the company offers workshops and courses for all ages and stages, looking at the craft of puppet theatre. Ages two and above

47.  Visit London’s only children’s zoo

It’s not as fancy as ZSL, but Battersea Park Children’s Zoo oozes low-key charm, is noticeably cheaper than its northern neighbour, and there’s less of a frantic worry about trying to pack every single exhibit in (you definitely will). Enjoy an afternoon of fun-sized wildlife, from armadillos to agoutis to Asian short-clawed otters.

Unusually for pandemic-era London, it doesn’t require advance booking and operates on a one-in, one-out basis when it hits capacity.

48.  Make your own comic at The Cartoon Museum

Don’t be put off by the word ‘museum’. Yes there are archives and displays of old political cartoons and comic art going as far back as the eighteenth century, but the workshops and events celebrate all kinds of modern cartoonery too. Weekend and school holiday workshops are a chance for older children to explore different artistic styles and create comic strips, animations and models.

Ages eight to 15 

49.  Bake a mud pie at the London Museum of Water & Steam

Though the name sounds like it might be one for H2O nerds only, the London Museum of Water & Steam is almost aggressively family-friendly – it even has complimentary nappies. There are heaps of things to do, from a spash zone to massive cool steam engines, but the wild play garden will be the highlight for many – bake yourself some dirt-based cuisine in the massive mud kitchen.

50.  Have an out-of-this-world experience at the Planetarium

Located next to the Royal Observatory, the Peter Harrison Planetarium is a large domed cinema space showing films combining real footage captured by spacecraft with advanced CGI, providing a vivid picture of what our universe is all about. Shows include regular ‘Space Safari’ events for younger children and the ‘Meet the Neighbours’ live shows at weekends and during school holidays, which are hosted by the Observatory’s astronomers.

All ages 

51.  Experience a World War I air battle in the 4D Theatre at the RAF Museum

This museum near Brent Cross is on the site of the old Hendon aerodrome, so happily there is a lot of space for full-size, real-life exhibits of RAF aircraft – from WWI propeller planes to the amazing Eurofighter Typhoon. The museum is free, with activities throughout the holidays and an autism-friendly trail. The 4D cinema shows what it’s like to be in the cockpit of some of these amazing planes, thanks to state-of-the-art computer animation (cinema £5, £16 up to four people).

52.  Get grossed out by snot, sick and scabs at the Centre of the Cell

This inspiring education centre is located in an orange pod suspended above the laboratories of the Blizard Institute in Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry. Kids can see scientists at work and learn more about the human body. Mainly for schools, in the holidays there are public sessions themed around the heart, teeth or senses. The ‘Snot, Sick and Scabs’ session is particularly popular. Yum.

Ages seven plus (under 14s must be accompanied by an adult)

53.  Find your Sea Legs on the HMS Belfast

An active ship during World War II, HMS Belfast is an evocative day out. Explore the decks for a sense of life onboard in conflict and peacetime. Join in with such free holiday activities as Sea Legs, an interactive family exhibit in which you’re tasked with working out where the ship is supposed to be going and how best to feed its crew of 950.

54.  Have a teriffic time on the Terrible Thames

Terry Deary’s ‘Horrible Histories’ franchise takes to the high seas (sort of) with this enjoyably lurid clipper trip that takes in the big sights of the Thames, with our bickering guides run us through the many awful things that have happed in and around the river over the last 1000 years or so.

55.  Travel back in time on the Mail Rail

Did you ever in your wildest dreams imagine there was an abandoned postal railway system running underneath London? If the answer’s ‘yes’, you’ve probably already ridden the 100-year-old Mail Rail, the jewel in the crown of the London Postal Museum. If the answer’s no then boy is there a subterranean treat in store for you underneath the street of Clerkenwell.

56.  Scrub the deck for Sir Francis Drake on the Golden Hinde

Docked at Bankside, the Golden Hinde II is actually a full-size replica of the sixteenth-century ship used to circumnavigate the world, and its interactive tours and actors bring Drake’s adventure vividly to life. Self-guided tours are available daily, but there are also regular pirate fun days and battle workshops, with dressing-up and a chance to get hands-on with sailor duties. You can even book an overnight stay.

57.  Paddle your own canoe at Lee Valley White Water Centre

This London 2012 Olympic Games venue is open to the public for adrenalin-fuelled white-water rafting, canoeing and kayaking sessions – riding the rapids that challenged the world's best makes for an action-packed experience. On the centre's raft adventure, you'll be high-siding, spinning and nose dunking on the Olympic Standard Competition course before you know it.

Age 12 and above

58.  Have a bounce at the National Centre for Circus Arts

At this circus-training centre there are courses and facilities for professional artists but also special bookable workshops for beginners of all ages. These include monthly Youth Experience Days where older children can develop key circus skills. Booking in advance is essential, but it’s worth it – a chance to take on the trapeze, the tightwire and the diabolo with expert supervision and tutoring. Ages eight to 16 

59.  Venture into the Land of the Lions

Get stuck in at London Zoo and stay the night. After you've nosed around the exhibits, spend the night in Land of the Lions. We're not having you on, you really can sleep there. Hire a lodge and enjoy private guided tours around different animal enclosures after hours. A two-course dinner and breakfast are included, so you won't have to worry about your rumbling stomach waking up the neighbours. Plus, tickets come with free parking, which is unheard of in Camden.

Ages 14 and above

60.  Blast your way into Bunker 51

Many live-action adventures like this are located further out of London but Bunker 51 is in Docklands and decked out like an underground nuclear shelter. The lighting and props (discarded canisters of toxic waste, abandoned 4x4s and signposts to the missile bay) help to crank up the fear factor and remind you that this is war! Though happily, only in paintball (or lasertag) form.

Ages 12 and above 

61.  Learn some serious spy skills at clueQuest

Get those cogs turning by locking your family in a room and trying to escape. It sounds borderline terrifying, but these escape rooms are hugely popular and have popped up all over London. ClueQuest is in King’s Cross and gives teams of three to five players 60 minutes to solve puzzles, riddles and find hidden clues in order to regain your freedom. Plus, since there are several missions to choose from, you can go back again and again to perfect your puzzle skills. Mission, accepted.

Ages nine and above

62.  Play Bond for a day on the Thames RIB Experience

There are few places in London where you can go really fast. A good thing too, in general, given the levels of traffic everywhere. But when it comes to seeing London from the river, you can swap a genteel cruise for a speedy romp in a RIB (rigid inflatable boat). From the London Eye Millennium Pier the tour starts as a fairly regular river tour, but once you’re past Tower Bridge things speed up, scooting all the way down to Docklands. Basically, this is the whitest your knuckles will ever get while travelling down old Father Thames. It's perfect for sightseeing with a slightly breakneck, James Bond vibe.

63.  Spruce up your portfolio at the Dulwich Picture Gallery

Galleries are pretty savvy at cultivating the next generation of art lovers, with free drop-in activities, family-friendly tours and holiday workshops. Dulwich Picture Gallery is among the best, with Practical Art courses throughout the year. Sessions are planned by age range, so under-10s and teens get the right challenges for their abilities and interests. From sculpture to figure drawing, it’s a great south London resource for budding artists.

64.  Be a little monkey in the treetops

There have been treetop adventure centres in forests around the country for a few years, but when Go Ape opened in Battersea in 2015, it brought the thrill and daring of zipwiring and high-level assault courses to Zone 1. The adventure starts on the ground with a safety briefing before you put your harness on. Then off you go, working your way through three layers of challenges heading up to the canopy, crossing tricky obstacle rope walls and wooden bridges to reach the zipwires. It’s hard work, but an exhilarating experience for kids and adults with a head for heights.

65.  Build an army camp

Having undergone a major update a few years back, the National Army Museum is a free-to-visit, bright and airy space with dazzling gallery experiences and lots of activities and learning spaces for families. There’s also an immersive play session for toddlers and under-8s called Play Base. These one-hour sessions (£6.25 per child and accompanying adult) include challenges that reflect army life in a fun way – an assault course, a ‘command liaison vehicle’, the cookhouse, quartermaster store and a chance to build dens and hone survival skills ‘in the field’.

66.  Be dazzled by a neon wonderland at God's Own Junkyard

God's Own Junkyard showcases neon artist Chris Bracey's personal collection of work in a salvage yard in Walthamstow. It contains everything from his signage for Soho sex clubs in the '60s to his work for the movie industry, including pieces that were used in 'Captain America', 'Eyes Wide Shut', 'Byzantium' and more. Once you're done being dazzled, you can grab drinks and snacks at the yard's own Rolling Scones Cafe (lolz).

67.  Take a dip in a lido

Rarely does the weather warm up enough to jump into London’s outdoor lidos without flinching, but when it does everyone wants a piece of the action. Thankfully, there are plenty of lidos scattered all over the capital, including right in the centre. The easily-reached Serpentine Lido has a dedicated children’s play area with a paddling pool, and a sun terrace.

All ages (two adults to each under-16 swimming in the lake) 

68.  See a show and play in the treehouse at the Polka Theatre

In August 2021, iconic southwest London kids’ theatre the Polka will finally emerge from its walloping £8.5m makeover. Its busy programme of theatre for babies, toddlers and children will resume in a vastly upgraded building that features an indoor playspace, a playground with a treehouse, a sensory room, a large café and more.

69.  Decorate your afternoon tea at Biscuiteers Boutique and Icing Café

Get hands-on with some sweet treats at this café with branches in Notting Hill and Clapham. Not only can you enjoy a bicky with your tea, you can decorate it too. At the Biscuiteers Boutique they specialise in biscuit art and host classes for all ages, as well as a Little Biscuiteers School of Icing. At the latter you can leave your youngsters to it in an hour-long lesson (£36), or simply drop in and leave them to play with icing decoration (£15) while you relax with a cuppa and a nibble. There’s also a 

70.  Ride an adorable mini railway

With its excellent playground, fun water splash area and frequent funfairs, Brockwell Park is a day out for kids in its own right. And if you go on a Sunday between March and October it’s extra special thanks to the delightful Brockwell Park Miniature Railway. It’s been plying its trade since 2003, and a return still only costs £1.

71.  Come face-to-fish with a jellyfish shoal at the Horniman Museum

This iconic free museum in south-east London has plenty of fascinating exhibits to gaze at and (in some cases) grapple with, but there’s also a great little aquarium here you can explore for a small charge. It includes a Fijian Reef, a Tropical Rainforest, a Mangrove swamp and a UK rock pool display, stocked with aquatic creatures native to those environments. The moon jellyfish are particularly magical.

72.  Dance among the fountains as the trains roll by

Time was that King’s Cross and St Pancras were surrounded by soot-covered warehouses, all gradually falling out of use and being turned into ad hoc nightclubs. Now, though, the vast piazza spaces look positively Continental, with Granary Square’s rows of pop-up fountains and Lewis Cubitt Park offering great, architecturally designed spaces to run around. Even in winter, it’s worth taking a towel – kids can’t resist running through the spouting water jets that rise up from the ground. And while you’re here, seek out Handyside Gardens, a pocket park nearby with a charming play area especially for children.

73.  Take command of a treehouse at the Olympic Park's Tumbling Bay Playground

With oodles of traffic-free pathways, the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is a brilliant place for running around and bike rides. The Tumbling Bay adventure playground is a real highlight, with sand pits, wobbly bridges, rock pools and tall treehouses. There are also swings and slides. Note to parents with a penchant for a cuppa and a cake – it’s next door to the Timber Lodge café. Free

74.  Watch the pelicans being fed in St James's Park

Surrounded by some of London’s most popular sightseeing attractions (Buckingham Palace, Westminster and Trafalgar Square), St James’s Park often gets overlooked, but it’s one of the loveliest green spaces to let the kids run about in. Duck Island, at the east end of the park’s lake, is perfect for birdwatchers. There have been pelicans here since the 1660s, and every day you can watch these curious feathered creatures being fed fresh fish at 2.30pm.

75.  Go pond dipping at Camley Street Natural Park

In two acres of wilderness just north of St Pancras, Camley Street Natural Park is like a corner of countryside in Zone 1. Created from an old coal yard and sitting alongside the Regent’s Canal, it’s a wonderful space for seeking out birds and butterflies, croaking amphibians and even bats, then reporting back on your wildlife sightings, which helps the work of the reserve. Free.

76.  Revisit childhood telly classics at the BFI Mediatheque

The BFI’s vast National Archive is available to access via its digital library at viewing stations in the Mediatheque room at BFI Southbank. For film lovers, students and families it’s a chance to search for and watch films, documentaries and a vast collection of homegrown and international animations. Cuddle up on the soft seats in a viewing station, put your headphones on and enjoy.

77.  Take to the water for a marionette show at the Puppet Theatre Barge

Moored at Little Venice most of the year, guests board this ‘theatre’ via the back steps into a tiny foyer. Adults and children are then carefully arranged on rows of benches to ensure smaller guests can see the stage, before the lights go down. Productions are usually inspired by fairy tales and fables, and prove a fascinating hit with even the youngest audience members. Wonderfully lo-fi family magic. (Moored at Richmond in summer.)

Ages three and above 

78.  Get frisked by a mechanical artwork at Novelty Automation

We might live in a digital age, but kids and grown-ups alike are still fascinated by the kind of mechanical curiosities that used to amuse Edwardians in old coin-operated machines. Taking that tradition and giving it a humorous, twenty-first-century spin, engineer and cartoonist Tim Hunkin’s gallery of jolly mechanical scenes in Holborn includes an ‘Alien Probe’ and the ticklishly good ‘Autofrisk’. This is what science lessons should be like.

79.  Go leaf-boat racing at the Princess Diana Fountain

Located by the Serpentine in Hyde Park, the Diana Memorial Fountain is a landscaped circular stream made of granite that’s well suited to impromptu leaf-boat races. Water flows and bubbles from the top in two directions down a gentle slope, meeting in a pool at the bottom. Especially busy in summer, it’s open throughout the rest of the year as well. Children love racing round it, following the flow. You’re allowed to sit on the side and dip your toes in, too.

80.  Balance on stepping-stones at Thomson’s Pond in Isabella Plantation

Richmond Park’s wild landscape is ideal for families. Venture beyond the gates of the Isabella Plantation (near the south side of the park), and you’ll find yourself in a scented, colourful world of flowers and bushes. Choose your pathway into the woods and find the pretty oasis of Thomson’s Pond. Picnic under the weeping willow then try to negotiate the stepping-stones and the series of bridges over the stream without getting shoes and socks wet.

81.  Go up, go round and slide all the way down an Olympic icon

Anish Kapoor’s ArcelorMittal Orbit is a London 2012 landmark that keeps on evolving. During the Olympics and ever since the grounds reopened as the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, it’s served as a huge tower to enjoy great views. But with the opening of the slide that now coils all around it like a supersized, 178-metre-long helter-skelter, it’s also become one of the coolest places in town for adrenalin thrills. Sliders must be over eight years old and at least 1.3 metres tall to face the breathtaking 40-second scoot to the ground.

82.  Take a night flight over the Thames in London's only cable car

With incredible views (without the crowded masses that gather in long queues at the London Eye or The Shard), the Emirates Airline offers a unique perspective on the city. Hop onboard and get ready for some seriously good sightseeing, all for way less than the cost of London's more famous sky-high attractions. Whether you start at the Greenwich end (next to the O2) or Royal Victoria on the north bank, you're in for a scenic treat – especially if you ride at dusk and glimpse all the twinkling lights in the skyline. It runs daily until 9pm (summer) and 8pm (winter).

83.  See a play at the Unicorn Theatre, which puts children first

This modern theatre at London Bridge focuses on drama for children and young people. Throughout the year there are visiting and homegrown productions to suit all ages, including for under-fives, as well as thought-provoking leftfield work that unaccompanied adults will dig. There are free drop-in toddler sessions on Saturdays and teenagers can apply to join the Unicorn Young Company.

84.  Meet the ring-tailed lemurs at Golders Hill Park Zoo

This park has ponds, play areas, a café and a wonderful small zoo of enclosures which offer a quick fix of wildlife. Head here to hear the laughing kookaburras, spot a ring-tailed coati in the bushes and watch the ring-tailed lemurs up to their gymnastic tricks in the branches. Especially good with little ones who don’t have the stamina to make a pricey visit to the big zoo worthwhile.

85.  Be a groundling at Shakespeare's Globe

Recreated in the style of a theatre from 400 years ago, the Globe’s seating includes ‘groundling’ tickets where the audience stands. Its outdoor setting can be a dynamic way to engage young people in classic theatre. Children and families are welcome to performances, but the tour and exhibition are the best way to introduce kids to Shakespeare, plus there are various family-friendly workshops sprinkled throughout the year.

Ages three-plus

86.  Develop an eye for high fashion

The Fashion & Textile Museum has regularly changing exhibitions that are fascinating for adults and older children interested in classic and modern design. 

On the first Saturday of every month you can join Saturday Sketching sessions (free with main museum entry). Perfect for budding young stylists, you can tour the galleries at your own pace, find something that inspires you and draw your notes using the sketchbooks and pencils supplied.

87.  Follow a family trail at the British Museum

With many artefacts that are thousands of years old, the British Museum can be a bit mind-bending for children, but free daily activities focus on the highlights kids find especially cool. Pick up activity backpacks from the Families Desk with trail challenges devised by age suitability. Get the kids to dress up, play games, sketch objects and build things. Ages two to 12

88.  Fly down a zip wire at Coram's Fields playground

This Zone 1 park is a kid-friendly joy – adults don’t get in unless accompanied by a child. Under the dappled shade of the park’s huge trees, toddlers frolic in the sandpits and paddling pool and kids clamber in the playground and swoosh down the aerial slide, while the pens of goats, chickens, rabbits and birds await the attention of curious animal lovers. There are games pitches available free of charge to under-16s, too.

89.  Get a bird's eye view of the birds at the London Wetland Centre

If you know your London, you’ll appreciate that it’s not just the buildings that made the city but its remarkable outdoor spaces. It does a body good to get truly wild from time to time – so head out to the urban oasis of lakes, ponds and meadows of the Wetland Centre. Observe the ducks and otters, take in the serene scenery and let the kids get free-range in the adventure playground.

90.  Tackle a floating assault course at London Aquatics Centre

Did you know that the stunning swimming pool complex designed by Zaha Hadid for the 2012 Olympics  is open to the public? Yes it is! There are Aqua Splash sessions with a 25-metre inflatable obstacle course suitable for kids 5+, Extreme Aqua Splash for children 8+ and family sessions – but beware, booking is essential. Under-8s and non-swimmers under 16 must be accompanied by a competent adult swimmer.

91.  Race a car on the Alexandra Palace Boating Lake

The boating lake and playground at Ally Pally are located behind the main building on the ice-rink side of the park. The boating lake has been spruced up in recent years and as well as the traditional swan-shaped pedalo vessels, you can rent pedal boats in the shape of a VW car or a dragon, too. Expect to queue on sunny days when school’s out.

92.  Watch a movie on the UK's biggest screen at the BFI Imax

With digital surround sound and a screen almost as high as five double-decker buses, this is a thrilling cinema experience for older kids and teens, especially when there’s a showing of a new Hollywood movie created with the latest Imax 3D technology. Screenings also include all-action short films about nature and space. Put your 3D specs on and get ready to duck.

93.  Coo at the cockatiels in Clissold Park

On summer days Stoke Newington’s biggest green space is filled with locals sunbathing and improvising games of football and table tennis, but throughout the year toddlers and parents roam the playground, saying a cautious ‘hello’ to the deer, goats and chickens in the animal enclosure, and chatting to the cockatiels, budgies, finches, lovebirds and parakeets in the aviary. There’s also a weekday One O’Clock Club held here.

94.  Let a chick waddle up your sleeve

London’s city farms are one of our greatest treasures. Vauxhall City Farm is one of the loveliest, with a host of farmyard creatures to meet, including Stinker and Jemima the ferrets. If you dare, get a closer look. But watch out – they are inquisitive and love to crawl into the nearest interesting looking holes, including running up your trousers or down your sleeves!

95.  Let a mad scientist make you an ice cream at Chin Chin Labs

Next time the kids beg for a 99 Flake cone, wow them with a trip to the fabulously fun Chin Chin Labs in Camden Market. Flavours vary weekly and might include ingredients to suit adult tastes (blue cheese, Guinness, tobacco) but there are also sweet treats for all. The ice cream is frozen in front of you in a cloud of liquid nitrogen-generated steam, and you can adorn your tubs with all kinds of strange sprinkles and sauces.

96.  Say a careful ‘hello’ to the Tower of London ravens

Even younger children can get a lot from a trip to the Tower because so much of the original castle still stands, including its Medieval White Tower. Join one of the free Yeoman Warder tours inside the castle walls to hear fascinating tales about Traitors’ Gate, beheadings and the Crown Jewels. Make sure, too, that you seek out the ravens. There are seven of them kept at the Tower, fed on raw meat and bird biscuits soaked in blood. Ask almost any of the Yeoman Warders and they can probably show you a scar on their hands where they’ve suffered a nasty peck.

97.  Peek through the keyhole of history at the Museum of the Home

Peep through the keyhole and see how we used to live at the Museum of the Home, which also makes use of its gardens in order to take you step by step through what the typical London home looked like at different periods from 1600 to the present day. That might sound dry, but it’s the everyday nature of the exhibitions which fascinate children because they can relate to it. There are free craft and play activities at weekends and through the school holidays.  Free

98.  Head for Hogwarts through Platform 9¾

As all good wizards know, the Hogwarts Express sets off from King’s Cross platform somewhere between 9 and 10. For years there was just a discreet sign in homage to it, but now there’s a regular, good-humoured queue waiting to pose for a free photograph with a luggage trolley stuck halfway into the wall, plus the obligatory merch shop. A must-visit for all wannabe Harrys or Hermiones.

99.  Conquer a red-eyed dragon at Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court is so many different days out in one place. For families, there’s a chance to borrow dress-up clothes from the costumes box at the entrance so you can move around the Palace kitchens, dining hall and bedrooms and feel really part of the royal story. But it’s the grounds that really hold the greatest pleasures for kids. Happily, there’s a café here too, because the kids will be off playing for hours.

100.  Bounce like no-one’s watching

Ever wanted to throw yourself about on a trampoline but were too scared you’d fall off the edge or, even worse, get caught in that gap around the frame? Then get yourself to Oxygen Freejumping, where even the walls are bouncy! In a vast warehouse space in west London, Oxygen is a great place to let off steam or host a lively birthday party. There are 150 interconnected trampolines and you can leap in any direction or choose to take on an obstacle course. Oxygen has special morning sessions for little ones, too.

101.  Mudlark!

Is there anything more quintessentially London than trawling the banks – one might even say beaches! – of the River Thames looking for miscellaneous tat that’s been washed up? There is not! Our eighteenth and nineteenth-century forbears actually made a living out of it; these days it’s more of a fun family day out. If you actually want to take stuff you find home with you, you’ll need a permit : it’s £96 for three years.

Discover more wonderful things to do

1.  101 things to do in London

London is a treasure trove of brilliant days out 

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How to Spend 4 Days in London with Kids

Posted on Last updated: March 18, 2024

Home » Destinations » Europe » England » How to Spend 4 Days in London with Kids

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Planning a trip to London with kids and want a totally do-able itinerary? Keep scrolling to check out my kid-friendly 4 days in London itinerary from my last trip to England!

This kid-friendly 4 days in london itinerary was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Planning a trip to London with your family?

We just spent 4 days in London and had a blast! Our 8-year-old and 5-year-old loved all of the activities we did. Keep scrolling to see our exact London itinerary. Spoiler alert: they want to go back!

You will too once you see how much fun these activities are. All of them are perfect for kids of all ages. And don’t worry – we have tips for traveling with kids included too.

Scroll down now to check out our 4 day London itinerary and to find out some awesome things to do for kids in London that your whole family will enjoy!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of London blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting London with kids.

Popular London Tours/Activities

• London Eye (this is a relaxing adventure where you can see a birdseye view of London)
• Double-Decker Bus Tour (this one has a 2-hour guided tour option)
• Harry Potter Walking Tour (this one is especially for families)
• WB Studios in London (this is a MUST-DO for any Harry Potter fan)
• Afternoon Tea (this one takes place on a vintage double-decker bus)
• Flytographer Photo Shoot (this is an easy and affordable London photography option)

Kid-Friendly London Hotels

• Crowne Plaza London Kings Cross (this is right by Kings Cross Station, which is really convenient)
• The Clermont London (this is an easy walk to the London Eye and Buckingham Palace)
• Georgian House Hotel (this is perfect for Harry Potter fans)

4 Days in London with Kids

Before I really get into the London in 4 days itinerary, I wanted to note that we spent the week prior visiting Paris so we had recovered from jet lag by the time we got to London.

We took the Chunnel from Paris , which is a great way to get from Paris to London. They even served us a meal and hot tea!

We arrived in London in the evening, walked to a pub for dinner, and then went right to bed. This itinerary starts the very next day.

DAY 1: Bus Tour, London Eye, & Photo Shoot

Double decker bus tour of london.

When you think about visiting London with kids, you probably picture touring around on one of those iconic double-decker buses, right?

That’s the main reason we booked a 2-hour London bus tour . We did one with a live guide instead of the audio tour because we always have a hard time with audio guides. It was fantastic!

We had tickets for 10 am and we were able to find seats on the upper deck, which offered amazing views of famous London sights like Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and Parliament.

I hadn’t visited London since I was a teen and my husband went in his early 20s and neither of us really remembered how the city was laid out.

Doing this double-decker London bus tour was really helpful to orient ourselves. We also liked doing this vs the hop on hop off bus tour because we didn’t have to wait at a bunch of stops. Check the latest rates and availability .

Lunch at Fishcotheque

Our London bus tour ended near the London Eye. Since we still had 5 hours before our London Eye tickets, we decided to find lunch nearby.

We knew we wanted to find fish and chips since that’s one of the most famous English foods. Luckily, Fishcotheque was within walking distance and they have the #2 best fish and chips in London!

I’m so glad we went there because the food was SO GOOD! It really was the best fish and chips I’ve ever had. It was crispy on the outside and the fish was nice and flaky.

The rest of my family also enjoyed the food. And we liked getting mango juice, which can be hard to find at most restaurants.

The staff members were also super friendly and chatted us up while we were there. I highly recommend stopping at Fishcotheque for lunch in London!

Get Our FREE London Travel Planner

London souvenir shopping, carousel, and break.

The kids saw some souvenir stands and shops on our way back from lunch, so we stopped to check a few out.

I grabbed some adorable picture frames and we bought little Union Jack flags to use for our evening London photo shoot.

We also took a ride on the big carousel next to the London Eye. It was really fast and we had a blast!

Then, we headed back to our hotel so everyone could get a nice break. This gave the kids time to zone out on screens for a bit while I got ready for our London family photo shoot.

When traveling with kids, it’s always nice to add in some breaks so they can rest up and have enough energy to last the rest of the day.

London Eye with Kids

When I asked my kids about things to do in London, my 8-year-old told me riding the London Eye was on his London Bucket List. He’s been wanting to do it for the past few years, so we made it a priority to get tickets.

There are actually several ways to get London Eye tickets and all types of price points.

We booked Fast Track tickets for 5 pm. We decided it was worth spending a few more dollars in order to cut down the time waiting in line. I’m so glad we did this because the line was insanely long when we arrived.

Our tickets came with mini binoculars that were awesome for our kids!

We got on board with maybe 16 other people for the 30-minute loop on the London Eye. Even though the rotation is very slow, the 30 minutes really flew by.

We took lots of selfies and moved around to the different areas of the cabin.

There was also a London Eye Champagne Experience in the carriage right in front of us that people could rent for a private experience. It would be great to do for a big family trip to London.

Our whole family agreed that riding the London Eye was worth it. I’m not sure we’ll need to do it on a future trip to London, but we all had a great time! Check the latest rates and availability .

Flytographer Photo Shoot in London

After doing the London Eye, we had about 20 minutes to walk across the river to meet our London family photographer.

I booked the 90-minute London photo shoot for our family specifically because I want to capture as many iconic London landmarks as possible.

Not only did we get tons of amazing photos but we walked in areas that most tourists wouldn’t even realize existed. Check out our full London photo shoot .

It was fun to chat with our London photographer about all types of things as he told us stories about all the places we went to. It really was like doing a guided tour and a photography session combo!

We always use Flytographer when we travel. They are usually the most affordable photography service we can find. And you can save $25 off your first session .

Book a Family Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND guarantee that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

DAY 2: Harry Potter Walking Tour & Afternoon Tea at Harrods

Harry potter store at platform 9 3/4.

One of the main reasons we wanted to visit London with kids is because they are huge Harry Potter fans. So, we knew we wanted to do at least one Harry Potter tour in London.

We found a cool Harry Potter walking tour that met at King’s Cross Station at Platform 9 3/4. I did some research and realized that there’s a huge Harry Potter store there.

So, we headed there about 45 minutes before our Harry Potter walking tour started to have time to peruse the shop at our own pace. Plus, it gave us time to get the boys changed into the Hogwarts robes and scarves.

The Platform 9 3/4 Harry Potter store is really awesome! They had different merchandise than the Harry Potter Store in NYC as well as what we’ve seen at Universal Studios. And we didn’t even see some of the stuff at the Harry Potter WB Studios either.

They have a full section of the store where you can purchase character-specific wands. My kids chose Draco Malfoy and the Sword of Gryffindor.

This is also where you’ll find a cool photo op where you can push the cart into the wall of the train station. They have a staff member there and even super long Hogwarts scarves so you can get the ultimate photo.

We knew we were doing the Harry Potter studio tour the next day, so we didn’t do the photo op. But our tour guide told us it’s best to go early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid a long line. It’s one of the coolest Harry Potter attractions in London !

Harry Potter Walking Tour

Once we were done shopping, it was time for our Harry Potter Walking Tour . We met right outside the store, which was super convenient.

From there, we walked down to the actual platform where they filmed Harry Potter. Our tour guide chatted with some people who let us go right up and touch it. It was super cool!

We also walked over the the train station where they filmed all the exterior shots, like when Ron and Harry drove the magical car to Hogwarts. And our guide was able to show up photos of the scenes, which was helpful!

During this two-hour tour , we saw tons of Harry Potter filming sites including the exterior of Gringott’s Bank, Grimmauld Place, and the inspirations of Diagon Alley and Knockturn Alley.

This tour was really informative and our guide peppered our kids with Harry Potter trivia questions which kept their attention. We all loved this tour and highly recommend it!

It was definitely a highlight of our 4 day trip to London. Check the latest rates and more information .

Afternoon Tea at Harrods

I had afternoon tea on my London bucket list and the most iconic place is afternoon tea at Harrods. Fortunately, I made reservations about a month in advance to guarantee our spot.

We hopped in a taxi to drop us off at the most famous department store in London. And it was even exciting to go up to the 4th floor to visit the Harrods tea rooms.

We were a little early for our reservation, so we wandered around the 4th floor for a bit. That’s where we discovered that they had a whole hallway full of Harry Potter merchandise that was fun to look at.

But the real treat was the whole afternoon tea at Harrods experience. If you want to do a fancy afternoon tea in London with kids, this is the place to go!

We got to pick our hot beverages (we did tea and the kids did hot chocolate), but everything else was a set menu.

The kids absolutely loved their teddy bear presentation of savory items and bite-sized treats. And my husband and I couldn’t get enough of the finger sandwiches and desserts.

We were almost too full to enjoy the scones, jam, and clotted cream!

This is definitely one of the pricier afternoon teas in London, but it was a highlight of our trip to London with kids. It was simply marvelous!

Shopping and Break at Hotel

After we did afternoon tea, we headed down to the Harrods gift shop. We were all feeling a bit tired to peruse the entire store, so we decided the Harrods gift shop would be our best bet.

They had so many adorable items including their signature teddy bears, branded food items, teas, Christmas ornaments, bags, and so much more.

It was raining by the time we finished, so we headed back to hotel for a break. We were all feeling a bit worn out from all the travel but if we had more energy, we probably would have visited the British Museum.

Dinner at Seafresh

We took a really long rest at our hotel and then walked over to a restaurant near our hotel called Seafresh. It had great reviews.

The food was really tasty! My oldest son and I ordered fish and chips, my husband got the lobster thermador, and my youngest got a big bowl of mussels.

DAY 3: Warner Brothers Studio Tour

Since our family appreciates all things Harry Potter, we knew we needed to check out the Warner Brothers Studio in London .

I waited to get tickets until about a month before our trip and they were sold out. It was like a punch to the gut.

Thankfully, I was able to get 3rd party tickets that even included transportation from London. The studio is actually about an hour outside of the city so this actually was a blessing in disguise.

The WB Studio Tour in London is epically cool and my kids said it was the highlight of their London vacation.

Our tour allowed 4 hours to explore and we used up the entire 4 hours. This is the real studio where they filmed all the Harry Potter movies and it’s packed with interactive experiences, movie sets, props, and so much more.

The studio is massive and they have a cafeteria about halfway through the tour where you can get lunch and butterbeer (or butterbeer ice cream). And they have a really cool gift shop at the end of the tour.

This is definitely one of the coolest things to do in London for families. Check the latest rates and more information .

DAY 4: Changing of the Guard, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, & Afternoon Tea on a 1960s Bus

Changing of the guard tour.

Another iconic thing to do in London is see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. I remembered seeing it as a teen but I wasn’t sure how to do it on our own.

When I saw an affordable Changing of the Guard tour on Airbnb Experiences , I knew it would be perfect for our family.

I’m so glad we booked it because it actually started raining that morning, which alters the whole ceremony. And there are places you can and cannot stand, which our guide knew all about.

Seeing the actual Changing of the Guard was pretty cool. There was no music when we went (due to the rain) but it was still worth seeing.

But the real reason we appreciated the tour was getting to hear all kinds of stories about the royal family and even info about the Netflix series The Crown . Check the latest rates and availability .

However, you can actually go inside Buckingham Palace on a State Room tour for 10 weeks each year. Talk about a London Bucket List item!

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

After the Changing of the Guard, our family headed back to our hotel to re-group.

My husband and 8-year-old got ready to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child . My 8-year-old and I were lucky enough to see it on Broadway earlier in the year, but it was an abridged version.

London still has the 2-part play and we thought it would be a great opportunity for my husband and oldest to get some bonding time.

They had an amazing time and talked about it for weeks afterward. If you’re able to get tickets and you love Harry Potter, this is a must-do!

Afternoon Tea on a 1960s London Bus

Since our 5-year-old was a little young for the play, I looked for a unique London activity for just the two of us. When I came across this afternoon tea on a 1960s London Bus experience with Brigit’s Bakery, I knew it was perfect.

We hopped on at Victoria Coach Station and did a 90-minute tour around London in a double-decker bus.

But, they also served us afternoon tea complete with hot beverages in re-usable to go cups.

My son had hot chocolate while I had Earl Grey tea. And I even got a glass of bubbly!

The food was really tasty and there was a lot of it. They even gave us boxes to bring home the leftovers, which was a nice touch.

The whole experience was a ton of fun and we’d definitely do this again! It’s one of the best things to do in London with a 5 year old who loves vehicles! Check the latest rates and more information .

Tips for Visiting London with Kids

Stay near london attractions you want to visit.

We chose a hotel that was within walking distance of Victoria Station and Victoria Coach Station. This was really handy because we had several tours that met there and it was nice to just be able to walk.

Getting a taxi in London can be hit or miss. We found ourselves running late a few times because places were too far to walk and we thought we could just hail a cab.

Ask Your Kids What THEY Want to Do

Kids love to be included in planning trips and it makes them more excited about the itinerary. Our kids really wanted to do the Harry Potter Studios Tour, the Harry Potter Walking Tour, and the London Eye.

Those were the activities they had the most fun doing and they loved getting a say in our London itinerary!

We asked the kids about visiting some museums, doing a Thames river cruise, or taking a day trip to Bath but they weren’t interested in any of those suggestions.

It was a good thing we checked because those were on our original itinerary. I’m glad we swapped them for things the kids actually wanted to do.

Bring Layered Clothing

Even though we visiting London in summer, we still needed multiple sweaters and long pants. I think their latitude runs the same as Canada, so keep that in mind.

It also rained on us several times so I was glad we had closed toe shoes and bought some umbrellas on the trip. I regretted not packing our rain jackets though.

Try an English Breakfast

My 5-year-old thought it was so cool that he could get baked beans for breakfast that he ordered it every single day!

It’s things like this that make traveling with kids fun. It totally changed his mind about what could be considered breakfast.

London Itinerary with Kids FAQs

Absolutely! London is a very kid-friendly city in Europe and you’ll see tons of families out and about there. You’ll have no problem finding kid-friendly restaurants, playgrounds, activities, and attractions. And it’s perfect for Harry Potter fans!

You could make 3 days in London work, depending on what you want to see/do. There can be a lot of traffic in London, so you’ll want to be strategic about your activities and group them based on location. And if you want to do the WB Studios Tour for Harry Potter, that’s a full-day excursion.

Springtime can be a lovely time to visit London because the temperatures are usually mild (similar to Seattle) and the parks and gardens are starting to bloom. Summertime is the most popular time for families to visit London, but that’s also when it’s most crowded and expensive.

London Family Vacation Wrap Up

I hope this London 4 day itinerary helped you figure out what to do with kids in London, England! This was one of my favorite kid-friendly trips in Europe and we can’t wait for our next family trip to London!

If we had 5 days in London, we probably would have done a day trip to Bath to see Bridgerton filming sites! In fact, there are so many other cool places to add to a kid-friendly England itinerary .

I recommend checking out some London tours for kids , as well as fish and chip spots, fun carousels, and anything else you can’t find in your hometown.

Looking for more London content? Get my top London tips for newbies , kid-friendly hotels in London , best hidden gems in London , top London Instagram spots , London day trips , London vs Paris , things to do in London at night , 11 Terrific Things to Do in London with a Toddler , things to do for kids in London , 1 day in London , and how to book a London photographer !

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I've been to more than 30 countries, but I'll always think this European city is the best destination for children of any age

• Of all the countries I've been to, I think London is the best place for kids of any age.
• My husband and I took our son to the city when he was a baby, a preteen, and a teenager.
• The city has many museums, parks, and other activities to entertain kids of all ages.

As a travel writer, one of my greatest loves is experiencing a new country , region, or city with my son. But one place has always been our favorite: London.

The city, which is projected to be the top summer travel destination in 2024 , is popular among tourists due to its iconic sites, gardens, and history. But if you ask me, London is also the best spot to bring your kids, especially if they range in age.

I've been to over 30 countries, and out of all of them, London is the place we chose to bring our child when he was a baby, a preteen, and a teenager.

From the city's amazing architecture to its bustling museums , there are plenty of activities to catch any kid's attention. Here's why I'll always believe London is a terrific destination for children of any age.

Transportation in London is usually a breeze

In my experience, arriving in and getting around London is pretty easy. The Heathrow Express, an airport rail link operating from London Heathrow Airport, can transport passengers to Paddington Station in 15 minutes or less.

Once in the city, we take the Tube, a rapid underground transit system, to get to the big sights. Children under 11 travel for free when accompanied by an adult, and discounts are available for older kids.

When my son was 11, he loved the Hop-On, Hop-Off bus, a touristy but fun experience that takes passengers to major city sights like Big Ben and the Tower of London. Passengers can get off the open-top double-decker vehicle anytime, take a tour, grab a bite to eat, and then continue their journey when the next bus comes.

I recommend getting a 48-hour pass because you can get a great city overview on the first day and then dig deeper into certain spots on the second.

Finally, in an emergency like an infant meltdown or a toddler tantrum, Ubers are almost always accessible.

The city is full of parks for children to play in

London has incredible green space for such a large city. Many of the city's parks are free to the public and are wonderful spots for kids to picnic, sightsee, and burn off energy.

Regent's Park has gorgeous gardens, a playground, and a lake. At Hyde Park, families with two adults and up to four children can swim in the Serpentine Lido for only £15, or about $19.

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Greenwich Park is another one of our favorites because it offers beautiful views of the River Thames and an expansive lawn surrounding the Royal Observatory and Prime Meridian.

There's no need to worry about a language barrier

I'm a seasoned traveler, but language barriers can still throw me for a loop. I always try to learn a few simple phrases, but not understanding a language and juggling a kid can cause a lot of stress.

In London, there's no need to worry about a language barrier. Though over 300 languages are spoken in the city, most people know English.

There might be different words for various objects — like "nappy" or "diaper" — but I've easily communicated with the people around us in London.

London is full of kid-friendly eateries

Each time we've traveled to London, I've seen terrific restaurant options for palates of all ages. For example, Gordon Ramsay's Bread Street Kitchen offers a deal so children 8 and under dine for free when ordering off the kids' menu.

Delicious international foods , such as Italian, Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian cuisine, are also available all over London. Fast-food chains like Simit Sarayi and Yo! Sushi are also located throughout the city.

We loved taking our son to sample sweets at Harrods' Food Halls and enjoy sandwiches and scones at St. Martin-in-the-Fields' Café in the Crypt in Trafalgar Square.

There are tons of entertaining museums that offer free admission

London offers nearly 200 museums for patrons to soak up the city's culture and history. They're the perfect places to seek shelter from rain or serve as quiet, interesting respites for a napping baby.

On our first family trip, we strolled our then 8-month-old son through several wings of The British Museum as he peacefully slept. When he was 11, we hit The British Library to marvel at the Magna Carta and checked out the artwork at the National Portrait Gallery.

On our most recent excursion, we watched as our 16-year-old perused the masterpieces at Tate Modern. Most of these museums offer free admission, great kids' activities, hands-on exhibitions, and terrific gift shops.

London is close to tons of easy day-trip options

If you're a traveler who needs a change of pace or scenery every few days, London is a gateway to several day-trip destinations. Places like Oxford, Cambridge, Bath, Birmingham, and Brighton are only a bus ride away.

Visiting cities like Paris , Brussels, and even Amsterdam in a single day is doable thanks to the Eurostar train, which runs through several Western European countries.

The bottom line: London's fun, full of great transportation options, and offers endless activities to entertain the entire family. It's truly a winner for kids of all ages.

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Travelling in London with kids

When planning a family trip to London, one of the things we need to think about is how we are going to get around London. And in particular, how travelling in London with kids works.

You are probably asking yourself what fares children have to pay on London´s public transport. And you may even need to know how to use London´s public transport with a buggy.

Travelling in London with kids: Fares and transport passes

When travelling in London with kids, it is important to know the different child fares on London´s transport network depending on their age. There are transport passes for children, valid for London´s underground network, buses, DLR, overground and trains within London travel zones .

Children under 11 years of age

Children aged under 11 travel free on London´s buses and trams, at any time, and do not need a ticket. They also travel free on London Underground, DLR (docklands light railway), overground and Tfl rail. They don´t need a ticket as long as a paying adult accompanies them.

Up to 4 children can travel for free with an adult with a valid ticket. When entering the London underground with a child (or more) under 11, it is advisable to use the larger access doors. These doors are wider and don´t close as fast as individual doors. They are designed for people travelling in London with kids, luggage or for disabled people.

Children 11 – 16 years of age

Children between the ages of 11 and under 16 can travel at a reduced rate on London´s public transport. Understanding what tickets are more suitable can be a bit complicated, as there are several options. For this reason, I am going to summarise the different options below. Hopefully, you will be able to decide which option is more suitable for you if you are travelling in London with kids.

Children from 11 to 16 years old can also travel with an adult oyster card or travel card if necessary. In this case, they will not benefit from reduced rates on travel.

Option 1: Oyster card with Young Visitor Discount

This is the best option if you are planning a family trip to London. An oyster card with a young visitor discount will apply half adult rates for 14 days. After 14 days, this discount will expire, and the oyster card will charge full adult rates again. The oyster card can also be returned at the end of your trip, just like a normal oyster card .

All you have to do is buy an Oyster Card or a Visitor Oyster Card, either online or at an underground station, and then ask a staff member to set the Young Visitor Discount. This discount can be applied at any underground station in London, including the underground station at Heathrow Airport .

An adult will need to give their personal details to register the oyster card before the discount can be applied, and you might be asked to confirm the child´s age. You and your child will need to be together when asking for the Young Visitor Discount to be set onto an oyster card, and an adult can request the young visitor discount to be set for up to 4 children (on separate oyster cards).

Option 2: Zip Oyster Photocard

The zip oyster photocard will entitle children up to 16 years of age to reduced fares on the underground and overground and other TFL services, as well as free travel on trams and buses. The zip oyster photocard is normally the best option for children that live in London, as the process to get an oyster photocard for a child can take some time and there is an initial registration fee of up to £20 – so this is normally not the best option for tourists.

• To get a zip oyster photocard if you live in London, all you need to do is fill in a form that you’ll find at your local Post Office and return it to the Post Office. You will also need to include a passport-sized photo and a copy of the birth certificate or passport and pay the fee. You should get the zip oyster photocard in 2 weeks.
• If you are a UK resident, you will need to do the process online on TFL’s website, and you should get the zip oyster photocard within 4 weeks.
• If you live outside the UK you will need to do the process online on TFL’s website. When applying, you will need to choose which London Visitor Centre (Liverpool Street Station, Victoria Station, Euston, Gatwick, King’s Cross station) you want to collect the zip oyster photocard from, as it will not be sent to your home address. You need to apply at least 3 weeks in advance but can apply up to three months in advance.

Option 3: 1 Day Child Travelcard

A one-day child travelcard will allow unlimited travel at any time of the day on any form of public transport in London for the chosen London Travel Zones . No ID is needed to purchase this one-day child travelcard, but fares using an oyster card with a young visitor discount are normally cheaper. If you are visiting London for several days and choose this option, you will have to buy a one-day child travelcard for each day, and this will work out a lot more expensive than using an oyster card with a young visitor discount.

Option 4: 7 Day Child Travelcard

To buy a 7-day child travelcard in London there are 3 options: 1 – By adding a weekly travelcard into a zip oyster photocard. This is undoubtedly the most complicated option, as you need to request a zip card oyster photocard first and then add the 7-day travelcard onto it. 2 – Buy a 7-day child travelcard online . This is probably the easiest way of getting one, as you don’t need a zip oyster photocard, and they’ll send it to your home address before you travel. 3 – Buy a 7-day child travelcard at a national railway ticket office (not an underground station).

16 – 18 years old

People aged 16 to 18 can also apply for a 16 – 18 zip oyster photocard, which will apply half adult rates on any form of public transport in London. Travelcards at a reduced price can also be added onto zip oyster photocards.

You don’t need to live in London to be able to apply for a zip card, but there is a processing fee which makes it hard to justify if you’re just visiting London for a few days. In this case, I’d recommend using a normal oyster card (adult rates) for anyone over 16.

For more information about travelling in London kids visit:  Transport for London

Travelling in London with kids: Travelling to Central London from the airport

Stansted , Luton and Gatwick airports are all located outside London’s Travel Zones , so fares when travelling with kids too and from these airports are different to fares when travelling in London with kids, so under 11 years old’s will need a ticket.

An oyster card is valid for travel into Central London from Gatwick Airport, but children under 11 also need a train ticket to get to central London from Gatwick Airport, even if they are accompanied by an adult.

Heathrow and London City Airports are both inside London Travel Zones , so fares are as explained above. Children under 11 travel free, and Children under 16 can travel with an oyster card with a young visitor discount.

⇒ More information:  London Airport Transfers

Travelling in London with a buggy

One of the things we need to think about if we are going to be travelling in London with kids is if we are going to need to travel around London with a buggy. If you are planning a trip with a baby, it may be that you wish to bring your buggy to London, or if you have older children, you will probably need to use a stroller if you are planning on spending the whole day walking around London.

When you first become a parent in London, using public transport with a buggy isn´t easy at first. Still, you eventually learn how to get around and quickly learn how to read London´s accessibility maps and find the best routes. The truth is that travelling in London with a buggy can be very easy if you know which route is best, or it can be a complete nightmare if you have to go up or down 300 steps when there are no lifts.

This is why we are going to explain how to travel on London´s public transport with a buggy.

Travelling on London´s buses with a buggy

Public buses in London have a dedicated wheelchair and buggy space as well as easy street-level access, and travelling by bus with a buggy normally is the easiest option to get around London. You can enter the bus via the back door, which makes it a bit easier too. Up to two pushchairs are allowed in the dedicated buggy space on a bus, but do bear in mind that during busy periods you may be asked to wait for the next bus or collapse your pushchair.

Travelling on the London Underground with a buggy

The trick to travelling in London with kids using a pushchair is to check London´s accessible underground map in advance and choose your route carefully. Being able to plan your route by choosing accessible stations makes life much easier. It may just mean that you need to get off at the next stop and walk 5 minutes, rather than having to take a buggy and a baby up 100 steps.

Unfortunately, not all underground stations in London are accessible. Most underground stations in London will have escalators, and many stations will also have stairs before reaching the platform. Many other stations have lifts to some platforms, and some stations are completely accessible, with lifts from the ticket office to the platform.

Travelling in London with a buggy is easier if there are two adults as one of you can carry the baby whilst the other one can take the buggy up or down the stairs. If it´s just one adult taking a buggy then I would encourage you to check the best route first. Whenever I had no choice and had to get off at an underground station that wasn’t accessible with a buggy, there has always been someone willing to help me. If you need help going up or down the stairs and you ask a staff member for help, for health and safety reasons, they will ask you to carry the baby and take the buggy for you. I have to say that a lot of people will use the escalators with a buggy, but I would recommend that you use stations with lifts.

London Underground Accessibility Maps

On the London Underground map, you will see that accessible underground stations are marked with the symbol of a wheelchair, in either a blue circle or a white circle.

• Blue circle: Fully accessible station. This means it is possible to go from street level onto the underground carriage without any steps. In these cases, the platform will have a slightly elevated area that avoids steps to get onto the train.
• White circle: Accessible Station. This means that there are no steps from street level to the platform. There is some unevenness when getting onto the train. This is important for someone using a wheelchair, but it usually isn´t a problem when taking a buggy onto the train.

In addition to this map, there is a Step Free Tube Map , which is a lot more detailed and the one I recommend you check when travelling on the London Underground with a buggy. This map highlights the degree of accessibility at each station in detail and explains how accessible it is to change between underground lines at different stations.

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Hi. Thanks for this useful info. I was wondering how a child can use an Oyster card reduced rates. My brother is visiting for five days with five and two children: 6 and 16yo. They will stay in zone four where the only connection to London is on a train. Therefore, do you think the cheapest way to get there each day and back is to use three adult Oyster cards? I read on TFL that children 5-11 can travel free on all sort of transport eleven without a zip photocard as long as they travel with accompanied adult. Of that’s the case, do they go through the gates together touching just with one card?

Hi Pawel, The cheapest way for the adults is to use an oyster card (or contactless debit or credit card ). The 6-year-old travels free, no ticket needed. They just go through the large gates (which are designed for families, disabled or people with luggage) with an adult. The 16-year-old can use an oyster card, like the adults, but will pay the same fare as the adults, but the best thing is to request they apply the young visitor discount on his oyster card at any underground station, paying half the fare than the adults for each journey. Hope that helps, I know it’s quite tricky!

Hi. Thanks for further explanation. I asked today at my local train station (national rail) in zone four and he advised me (although he didn’t sound entirely convincing) that the free travel for under 11s applies only on TFL transport and not on national rail even if it’s within London. Do you know if that’s the case as I read conflicting info on TFL.

Hi Pawel, this is my understanding too, children 5 – 11 need a ticket for national rail trains. Sorry I hadn’t realised you meant train, not underground! Let me know what station it is and I can look into it for you. =)

I’m visiting London with my two daughters (12 and 14). I thought I would get the visitor Oyster card and then ask for the family discount when we get there. How does this actually work going through the tap barriers? Do we all go through with one card?

Many thanks for your help with this! Michelle

Hi Michelle, As they are over 11 years old they need a card each – an oyster card with young visitor discount is the best option for them. Then each one of you will need to tap the card onto the yellow reader at the barrier to go through one by one. Hope that helps!

Many thanks! 🤗

Thanks a lot for the great information! I have a question regarding the young visitors discount. My daughter just turned 16 last month. Theoretically she won’t be able to get the discount, because on the official website it’s says only for children 11-15 years old. Am I missing something? Thanks!

Hi Anna, Yes, unfortunately the young visitor discount only applies to under 16s. As she is already 16, you would need to consider a zip card, or just a normal oyster card, as the zip card has a processing fee which probably makes it not worth it. Hope that helps!

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5 Places to Travel Abroad With Your Kids This Year

London, lapland, and tanzania are on the cards in 2024..

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TAASA Lodge offers a walking safari among several other singular experiences.

Courtesy of Go2Africa

Is it worth traveling abroad with your kids, especially with so many great options in the United States? Short answer: yes. That’s especially true if you consider one of these family-friendly destinations our writers have visited in recent months. They’ve been roaming with their children in the United Kingdom, Japan, Tanzania, Greece, and Swedish Lapland and have unearthed some great spots for the whole fam for 2024. Just try not to think about the flight there (and especially the flight home) . . .

Osaka, Japan

Theme parks and enticing street food are among the highlights of a visit to Osaka.

Photo by Usa-Pyon/Shutterstock

Wandering through Osaka’s neon-clad neighborhood of Shinsekai with my son—a hard-to-impress tween with a thirst for photo-worthy culinary creations—we passed takoyaki stands advertising their octopus-based wares with 3D tentacle-covered displays and a conveyor belt sushi joint adorned with an enormous rotating nigiri platter. Ultimately, we were drawn into Jumbo Tsuribune Tsurikichi , a restaurant boasting expansive pools of fish that you can catch with provided bait and rods. Here, they’ll cook and serve whatever you reel in—which, in our case, was a beast large enough to feed a family twice our size.

Memory-making experiences like this are only the beginning here, where maximalist signage beckons hungry travelers at every turn. And despite rising food costs across the globe, affordable eats are still easy to find in Osaka, making it an enticing choice for anyone looking to test their taste buds without breaking the bank. Even the pickiest of eaters will find something to love in this dynamic destination, and fun-loving families will find a variety of singular eateries. Dine alongside Pikachu at the popular Pokemon Café or enjoy impossibly cute Mario-inspired meals at Super Nintendo World at Universal Japan , which will soon offer even more options in its new Donkey Kong–themed land , slated to open in 2024.

Where to stay

For an immersive experience, families can sleep on traditional tatami mats at Ukiyoe Ryokan . The Cross Hotel Osaka , meanwhile, provides comfy digs located steps from the bustling food stalls in the Dotonbori area.— Amanda Adler

“I spy” gets a whole lot more interesting when there are leopards, hippos, and warthogs to peep.

Taking a toddler on safari is not for the faint of heart; I knew if I was gonna do it, I needed serious help. Enter Go2Africa , a seasoned tour operator staffed by specialists who’ve traveled extensively with small children throughout East and Southern Africa. These experts knew exactly which camps were the family-friendliest and how to safely travel between them. They arranged private safari drives for us in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area , a UNESCO-protected World Heritage site with Africa’s densest population of large animals, and a quiet corner of Serengeti National Park. Over multiple game drives in the two regions, we spotted lions, leopards, hippos, ostriches, flamingos, warthogs, and roughly a gazillion wildebeest, but it was a dazzle of zebras lingering within arm’s reach of our 4x4 that really had my son clapping up a storm.

Check out TAASA Lodge , a boutique bush camp in a 15,000-acre concession north of the Serengeti, and Gibb’s Farm , an 80-acre organic farm and coffee plantation less than an hour from Ngorongoro Crater. Both properties hire guides, trackers, and staff who truly love children, as opposed to merely tolerate them. Both also have swimming pools—a fantastic way for kiddos to spend some time in between game drives. —Ashlea Halpern, contributing editor

Athens, Greece

Ancient history comes alive in Athens.

Photo by Sven Hansche/Shutterstock

While history and ancient ruins may seem boring for little ones at first, Athens is actually an entertaining and educational family destination. Before you even leave, get your kids into Greek mythology and history—there’s the graphic novel series Olympians that reinterprets the mythologies and a funny and engaging podcast by National Geographic called Greeking Out that my eight-year-old son loves. Once you land, kids will be eager to see the sites that otherwise might look like crumbling dirt. When I visited last summer with my husband and two young kids, I booked a private tour with Be a Greek specifically meant for families. Our guide kept both of my children (and my husband and I) engaged with a scavenger hunt, trivia, games, and dynamic storytelling as we traipsed around the city, ticking off sites like the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Panathenaic Stadium, and Syntagma Square to see the changing of the presidential guard.

Visiting the Acropolis is a bit more challenging, so be sure to go in early morning or evening when it’s cooler and less crowded, and leave the stroller behind (way too many steps!). Kids will also enjoy the Acropolis Museum (request a “family backpack” for educational resources, puzzles, and more); riding the bright red Athens Happy Train ; going up Mount Lycabettus via cable car; and strolling around the picturesque Plaka neighborhood. When you need to escape the heat, head outside the city center to the Athens Riviera for some time at Astir Beach or to the still-in-progress Ellinikon , which already features an incredible playground and park, with more to come.

To be in the center, stay at the new boutique Apollo Palm Hotel , which offers triple rooms perfect for a family of three (or four if one child is in a crib, which can be provided) while still boasting a chic design, gorgeous rooftop bar, and delicious breakfast buffet. For a resort experience, complete with a kids club, beach, and pool, the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens has spacious rooms and an incredibly friendly and helpful staff who clearly love children.— Devorah Lev-Tov

The Jokkmokk market has been around for hundreds of years.

Photo by Tommy Alven/Shutterstock

Swedish Lapland

My kids were just toddlers when we visited Swedish Lapland’s Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, where I pushed them in strollers as they teetered across packed-snow floors in rooms carved out from river ice by artists from around the world. (We sanely slept in the warm accommodations on site.)

On a visit this past winter on my own, I found several other reasons to plot a trip back soon with my now-older crew. The best winter adventures in this part of Sweden come with experiential elements that go beyond chasing the northern lights. At Arctic Bath in the small hamlet of Harads, I watched a British family with elementary school–age kids brave cold plunges together following a sauna session, stepping down a metal ladder straight into the frozen Lule River and whooping it up before beelining it for the outdoor hot tubs.

Nearby, the whimsical variety of cabins on stilts at Treehotel —including one shaped like a bird’s nest and another like a UFO—were pure fantastical fun, with ice fishing and snowshoeing among the activities. Sapmi Nature Camp offers three-night packages to stay with Sámi hosts in private lavvu tents on the family’s grazing lands for reindeer while learning about their modern way of life. And if you’re here in early February, the excitement of the annual Jokkmokk Winter Market draws hundreds of Indigenous people from all over the Sápmi region of Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Russia for an outdoor festival with live music, shopping for silverwork and traditional clothing, and many more activities.

All of the aforementioned stays are a treat worth planning a trip around. But I’m dreaming of a multi-generational winter adventure at Fjellborg Arctic Lodge , where you can arrive via dogsled from nearby Jukkasjärvi. Families stay in a luxurious four-bedroom cabin with its own sauna and outdoor hot tub overlooking Lake Väkkärä. (Smaller cabins can accommodate more people right nearby.) The lodge’s wilderness guides lead all manner of excursions—including snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.— Terry Ward

London, U.K.

With musicals, green spaces, and seemingly endless restaurants, no two days in London are the same.

Courtesy of One Aldwych

From a wickedly funny Yeoman Warder guide at the Tower to a bike tour with London Bicycle and a visit to the Harry Potter studios (where all eight movies were filmed), my family’s weeklong trip across the pond proved to be equal parts educational and fun. We also adored the Matilda musical, based on Roald Dahl’s beloved book, in the West End, with all four of us singing along to its catchy tunes as we left the theater. The city’s many green spaces (Hyde Park; Kensington Gardens, with the Princess Diana Memorial Playground; Battersea Park) also allow ample opportunity for little legs to stretch, run, and stop to smell the roses. With a food scene that’s the stuff of legend, eating at Indian street food chain Dishoom and plant-based Mallow in Borough Market were also musts and didn’t disappoint.

London has many great hotels . I liked the elegant 101-room One Aldwych in the heart of Covent Garden, within blocks of theaters, restaurants, and museums, such as the fantastic London Transport Museum (where kids can see double-decker buses and grown-ups can marvel at the history of the Tube). Along with spacious suites, thoughtful touches like the daily replenished complimentary mini-bar (with biscuits and chips to keep little ones happy) and a “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” themed afternoon tea make the hotel truly perfect for families.— Tanvi Chheda

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Singer lily allen slammed after she confesses to leaving her kids in economy on flights.

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Lily Allen has sparked backlash after revealing that she has put herself in first class and her daughter in economy for an upcoming flight to London.

The singer made the confession while speaking to her childhood friend Miquita Oliver on their BBC podcast  Miss Me?  

Allen told her co-host that when returning to London for her friend’s birthday with her 11-year-old daughter Ethel she had decided to sit apart from her.

“We are flying to London today to come and see you for your birthday — I’m going in first class, she’s going in economy,” she said.

“You know what that is?” Oliver said as Allen joked, “Selfish?”

Oliver continued, “The circle of life. That baby is now coming to London because you live in New York for my 40th birthday, which we are having at the end of the road we grew up on.”

Allen replied, “There’s a trend at the moment on social media of people defiantly saying that they won’t give up their seats for children on airplanes,” to which her friend agreed, saying, “Fair enough. Why would you give your seat to a kid if you paid for it? It’s not like a train.”

However, Allen then went on to argue that airline passengers should be mindful of families who haven’t been sat next to each other.

“Quite often when you’re a big group the airline will separate the seats,” she explained.

“You’ll get to the airport and they’ll tell you your child is sat [away from you] and so when you get on the plane you have to ask people if they don’t mind moving so you can sit next to your children.”

“Obviously it’s inconvenient for everybody involved but I find it fascinating that it’s now become something that gives you clout on social media when you’re like, ‘A mum came up to me and asked me to move and I told them to f–k off.’ Is this what we’ve become? Well done, you’ve made a family sit apart from each other.”

Allen insisted that some families may not have had the chance to book seats in advance and shared her wish for people to be a bit nicer to others.

“Says me who’s putting myself in first class while my child is alone in the back of the plane. I don’t want to sit with my kid,” laughed the singer.

Her remarks have left social media divided, with some hitting out at the star for appearing to contradict herself.

“Alright for some isn’t it,” remarked one, while another said, “Poor flight attendant being left to do your job!”

However, others supported the singer, claiming that her refusal to bring her child into first class will help keep them “grounded”.

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