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With so many issues to do in London with children, the trickiest a part of a household metropolis break is figuring out what to suit into your keep – after greater than 40 years visiting and residing within the capital, I’m proof optimistic as my very own wishlist continues to be removed from ticked off.
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So to start out you off, I’ve rounded-up a number of the greatest London sights to go to with children, all excellent for a household time out in London – together with the best-known London household sights and museums, yow will discover locations to get outdoors, concepts for youths who love animals, history-lovers, royal London and extra.
These embody my very own unmissable highlights, plus concepts for for those who’re visiting London for the primary time, together with extra uncommon issues to do in London with the household, issues to do in London with toddlers, and inspiration for a wet day in London in my different posts too.
London excursions and different sights
In the event you’re trying to economize on a vacation in London with children (and who isn’t), try the London Cross and London Explorer Cross – each embody barely totally different sights and offers, in addition to lasting for various durations, so one of the best London metropolis go relies upon very a lot on how lengthy you’re staying and what you’re planning to see.
For extra concepts on learn how to get monetary savings on days out in London with children, try my prime suggestions
Thames river cruises
I like seeing London from the river, and it’s my favorite solution to journey right down to Greenwich on a sunny day too, with the river cruise and sightseeing corporations working once more as regular.
There’s an enormous selection of boat excursions in London with children too, together with the Horrible Thames cruise which was launched in 2021 by Horrible Histories, together with sightseeing cruises, hop-on hop-off choices, speedboats and even an opportunity to get behind the wheel your self.
For sightseeing, try Metropolis Cruises which runs numerous excursions alongside the river, or for those who’re not bothered about commentary, Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is commonly a less expensive choice, and a great way to get from A to B.
Click on right here to take a look at the whole set of boat journeys in London with children
London open-top buses
London has numerous open-top bus sightseeing excursions to select from, with totally different choices relying which routes and instances you need.
Tootbus (beforehand referred to as The Authentic Tour) has a particular 45-minute London Children tour in addition to the London Discovery hop-on hop-off choice.
Or the hop-on hop-off route from London Large Bus Excursions additionally takes you previous most key landmarks, with some reductions on-line for those who purchase prematurely.
In the event you fancy creating your individual bus tour for much less – and using on a crimson doubledecker as a bonus – Route 15 takes you previous St Paul’s Cathedral to the Tower of London, the 26 passes Westminster Abbey and Horseguards parade (changing route 11), whereas the quantity 9 goes from Trafalgar Sq. to the South Kensington Museums.
For extra of the greatest bus excursions in London with children, try my decide of one of the best, together with choices for teenagers and toddlers
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is definitely probably the most well-known of London’s bridges, and in addition to getting a view of its well-known blue and white paint, you may head inside to find its historical past.
There’s an opportunity to face on the glass walkway and look down, head into the engine rooms, and there are common household actions for youths too.
Take a look at the Tower Bridge Path for Little Explorers and household path app. Purchase tickets to Tower Bridge through the Tiqets web site and there’s a reduction utilizing my code MUMMYTRAVELS6.
In the event you’d like an opportunity of seeing the bridge’s spectacular opening as a much bigger boat comes by means of, test the raise instances.
Take a look at the Tower Bridge Cat collection of tales too, one among my picks for the greatest children books about London
The Sky Backyard
London’s highest public backyard is free to go to, though you do have to e book prematurely to absorb the views – unsurprisingly tickets to the Sky Backyard get snapped up, particularly for weekends. Adults additionally want ID, so plan forward.
Not removed from Monument station (check out the well-known Monument itself on the way in which, one other free factor to do in London with children for those who don’t climb it), the backyard sits on the prime of the skyscraper Londoners know because the Walkie Talkie constructing – for those who’re fighting instructions, it’s not tough to identify.
With a lined terrace, you will get some superb views throughout to the Shard, St Paul’s, Tower Bridge and alongside the Thames throughout your hour slot. You’ll be able to keep longer for those who plan go to one of many locations to eat and drink, though these are (clearly) not free.
You can too try the view from 300m up within the UK’s tallest constructing – purchase tickets to the View from the Shard right here – in addition to these different nice views in London with children
The London Eye
One of many iconic sights of the town, the London Eye can be an incredible place to get a chicken’s eye view of the capital.
Turning excessive above the South Financial institution and looking throughout the Thames, it’s greatest for good climate – unsurprisingly – however chilly sunny winter days can provide some gorgeously clear views.
Or time your ‘flight’ for sundown and watch the lights twinkling on throughout London.
Prebooking is strongly suggested, with reductions for those who purchase your tickets on-line prematurely. There are additionally fast-track tickets obtainable to skip the queues, which is good with children, particularly in peak season.
You can too purchase mixture tickets with the London Dungeon and close by London aquarium.
For extra concepts on how to economize on days out in London with children, try my prime suggestions
Madame Tussaud’s
From celebrities to superheroes to the royal household, you may whereas away hours gazing on the waxworks on show at Madame Tussauds – and posing alongside fairly a couple of.
Rise up to 40% off weekday visits, excluding faculty holidays, as a part of the Midweek Insanity deal till mid October – click on right here to e book
And there are always updates and new figures being added: the Marvel Corridor of Heroes is all the time a favorite for followers of the flicks, there’s a Star Wars space, in addition to seeing the celebrities of sport, trend and movie.
Prebooked tickets are suggested – for those who purchase direct, you may reschedule totally free plus there are on-line reductions for reserving prematurely.
You can too purchase mixture tickets with the London Dungeon and London aquarium, in addition to tickets with free cancellation from Get Your Information.
For extra uncommon sights in London with children, keep watch over the pop-up occasions going down in addition to quirky experiences like Twist Museum of Illusions
Shrek’s Journey
Shrek followers will love the prospect to stroll by means of the world of Far Far Away, assembly a number of the well-known characters together with Princess Fiona and Donkey.
There’s a problem to gather components to search out Shrek and make it dwelling safely, in addition to 10 themed reside reveals and a 4D flying bus to finish Shrek’s Journey. Higher for major faculty aged children who’ll recognize the enjoyable than for toddlers and preschoolers.
With the choice to reschedule totally free, it’s also possible to get mixed tickets to different Merlin sights, together with the close by aquarium or London Eye. Tickets with free cancellation are additionally obtainable from Get Your Information.
Discover discounted tickets on chosen dates till the tip of 2023 for those who e book by September 30, saving £12 on entry – excludes Saturdays and college holidays. Click on right here to get the deal
Discover Harry Potter in London
Harry Potter followers can discover a string of websites from the books and films throughout the capital, together with an opportunity to see the designs which introduced the wizarding world to life, in addition to areas which pop up within the movies.
Begin at King’s Cross: Platform 9 ¾ was truly filmed between platforms 4 and 5, however there’s an opportunity to pose with a baggage trolley disappearing by means of the wall on the station concourse.
Then uncover a number of the areas used within the Harry Potter films, together with Leadenhall Market and the Millennium Bridge, and enter the Wizarding World on the Home of MinaLima – graphic design duo Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima created every thing from the Marauder’s Map to packets of Bertie Bott’s Each Flavour Beans.
For extra Harry Potter areas in London, try this publish, or try one of many Harry Potter excursions, together with this child-friendly Harry Potter strolling tour.
And whereas the Harry Potter studio tour isn’t in central London, it’s solely a brief journey from Euston and has rapidly change into one of many prime London sights with children.
Be ready to e book properly prematurely to discover the Harry Potter Studios, particularly for Hogwarts within the Snow at Christmas and permit plenty of time – there’s an enormous quantity of element for followers to take pleasure in.
For extra recommendations on visiting the Warner Bros studios in Leavesden, in addition to concepts of the place to remain close to Harry Potter World, try my posts
Golden Hinde
On the banks of the Thames, head again to Tudor instances as you discover the duplicate of the Golden Hinde, the ship which Francis Drake sailed around the globe.
Tickets might be booked on-line or there are walk-up choices, in addition to some very enjoyable household experiences – up to now, we’ve loved a very memorable sleepover in addition to attempting out the model new escape room with children, Escape from the Golden Hinde.
The London Dungeon
One for older and braver children, a visit to the London Dungeon is assured to scare you again into historical past, with reside actors whisking you thru 1,000 actually alarming years of London’s previous, plus loads of particular results and rides to get your coronary heart racing even sooner.
Save as much as £10 off tickets on chosen dates till the tip of 2023 for those who e book by September 30 – excludes Saturdays and college holidays. Click on right here to get the low cost.
One among a string of areas across the UK, like the opposite Dungeons, every location has areas themed to go well with its personal historical past too. The London Dungeon, for instance, brings you head to head with the Nice Hearth and Sweeney Todd.
Prebooking is strongly suggested, with on-line reductions for those who purchase your tickets prematurely: greatest for teenagers and braver tweens. You can too purchase mixture tickets to different Merlin sights.
For extra issues to do on the South Financial institution with children, try my suggestions
Catch a present
The West Finish is rightfully well-known for its theatre so for those who’re visiting London with older children, try the offers on the TKTS sales space in Leicester Sq. for those who haven’t booked prematurely.
You can too decide up reductions on web sites like From The Field Workplace or e book through See Tickets.
There’s lots for youthful guests to take pleasure in as properly, with nice child-friendly reveals and a few superb kids’s theatres. Attempt puppet and marionette reveals on the Little Angel Theatre in Islington, whereas the Unicorn Theatre close to London Bridge is geared toward mini theatregoers aged six months plus. Somewhat additional out, the Polka Theatre in Wimbledon has performances completely for households.
You’ll discover performances in central London as properly: on the Theatre Royal Haymarket, you may see reveals just like the Tiger Who Got here To Tea, in addition to Frozen the Musical on the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, to call just some.
For extra methods to discover low-cost theatre tickets in London with children, try my suggestions
Go to The Globe
Step again to Tudor England with a go to to the Globe Theatre, a reconstruction of the open-air playhouse the place Shakespeare labored, and the place his performs are carried out immediately.
And in addition to shopping for a ticket for a efficiency – undoubtedly probably the most memorable methods to see Shakespeare, particularly for teenagers learning the performs – there are sometimes household workshops and occasions throughout faculty holidays.
You can too take a tour behind the scenes, together with tales of the unique sixteenth century playhouse and London in Shakespeare’s Day, the way it survived plague and political oppression, together with how the Globe was recreated, all packed into 50 minutes.
Animal sights in London with children
There’s lots in London for youths who love animals, from the largest zoos to little metropolis farms and aquariums.
London Zoo
The world’s oldest scientific zoo, London Zoo continues to be one of many metropolis’s largest sights – for youths and adults – greater than 170 years after it opened.
As soon as dwelling to the bear that impressed Winnie the Pooh, nowadays you may see every thing from lions and tigers to with the ability to stroll with lemurs, enterprise into rainforest situations, see animals from the African savannah and Australian Outback, and plenty extra.
There are three colour-coded routes across the zoo, pink, blue and orange – all totally different lengths, they begin and finish in roughly the identical place so you are able to do them in any order you need, and for those who’re wanting time, it allows you to focus in your favourites.
There are keeper talks which happen all through the day, in addition to particular animal experiences – you can even assist feed the gorillas. In the event you’re fortunate, you may spot the keepers feeding the animals as you discover.
Hold a watch out for normal particular household occasions, particularly throughout faculty holidays, too. Tickets have to be prebooked.
Discover extra data on visiting London Zoo right here, and take a look at a few of my different suggestions from our personal visits to London Zoo
Battersea Park Kids’s Zoo
This little kids’s zoo is nice for youthful children – much less overwhelming, much less far to stroll and loads of animals to please, particularly for those who’re wanting time (a few hours is lots) or visiting London on a funds.
As a result of whereas London Zoo is a unbelievable time out with children, there’s no query that it’s a pricy one – and for youthful toddlers, they’re typically as excited by a rabbit as one thing uncommon and unique.
You gained’t discover greater creatures at Battersea Park Kids’s Zoo however there are monkeys and lemurs, wallabies, cattle, birds, reptiles and diverse small furry issues. There’s additionally an journey playground to entertain – in addition to loads of area within the park across the zoo.
Tickets don’t should be prebooked – under-twos go free.
Check out my overview of a day at Battersea Park Kids’s Zoo with a child in addition to extra of London’s smaller zoos, together with a little bit free zoo in north London
Sea Life London Aquarium
A stunning various to the town’s zoos for animal lovers, the Sea Life London Aquarium is a superb place to go to – one of many largest collections in Europe.
Rise up to 40% off weekday visits, excluding faculty holidays, as a part of the Midweek Insanity deal till mid October – click on right here to e book
London’s aquarium homes over 500 species, 14 themed zones and greater than 2 million litres of water with some uncommon creatures to find, in addition to some favourites together with penguins and clownfish.
Set close to the London Eye it could possibly get busy at peak instances and on wet days, so it’s properly value prebooking and there are normally reductions for those who purchase on-line prematurely.
For extra concepts on how to economize on days out in London with children, try my prime suggestions
Metropolis farms
In the event you’re visiting London with children who love animals, add one of many many metropolis farms to your record, with a string of websites dotted across the capital.
Freightliners Metropolis Farm (between Caledonian Highway tube and Highbury & Islington) has some uncommon breeds, as does Spitalfields Metropolis Farm.
At Vauxhall Metropolis Farm, you’ll discover alpacas alongside farmyard animals and even a few cats, whereas there are llamas at Mudchute. Hackney Metropolis Farm has some smaller fluffy inhabitants together with rabbits and guinea pigs in addition to bigger creatures too.
A number of the farms have restricted opening hours/days, so all the time test straight for the newest data.
Historic sights in London
One of many issues I like most about London is the truth that strolling down a single avenue allows you to uncover round two thousand years of historical past – my daughter and I’ve retraced a number of the areas of the Nice Hearth of London, in addition to exploring different elements of London for youths who love historical past.
You can too uncover Roman London, together with elements of the outdated partitions and different outside websites, excellent for theming a stroll across the outdated metropolis of Londinium.
Check out this publish for a strolling route which takes you previous London’s predominant landmarks
The Tower of London
The Tower is one among my very own private favourites, and from the astonishing crown jewels to the well-known ravens and beefeaters, it’s an incredible time out with children in London too.
You’ll be able to discover former royal flats, adorned as they might have been when kings lived there, and uncover the Tower’s grim historical past as a jail too, together with a memorial to 2 of Henry VIII’s executed queens.
It additionally homes a part of the Royal Armoury, plus you’ll discover shows on the Tower’s menagerie of animals, uncover reside performances throughout faculty holidays, and stroll the partitions.
Tickets might be purchased on the day, though prebooking is beneficial – there’s a reduction for those who e book through tiqets utilizing my code MUMMYTRAVELS6.
For a memorably uncommon night, e book separate tickets to go to within the night and observe the Ceremony of the Keys – try my expertise of watching the Ceremony of the Keys with children.
There’s additionally a particular immersive expertise close to the Tower themed across the Gunpowder Plot, the place you’ll be whisked again to 1605 to see for those who can foil Man Fawkes…
Hampton Courtroom Palace
This magical Tudor palace – constructed by Cardinal Wolsey and ‘acquired’ by Henry VIII – is a wonderful time out with children in London.
In addition to exploring inside, tracing the palace’s historical past from its Tudor days (don’t miss the sprawling kitchens) to Georgian instances, there are grounds and gardens to find too, together with the Maze – the UK’s oldest surviving hedge maze.
And put aside a few hours for the Magic Backyard playground too: a very enchanting set of play areas, together with sand play, climbing gear and pretend hills.
Though it’s proper on the sting of London, there are quick trains working from Waterloo. Prebooking tickets is beneficial, with further prices for some particular household actions – there’s a reduction for those who e book through tiqets utilizing my code MUMMYTRAVELS6.
Take a look at my overview of our most up-to-date go to to Hampton Courtroom Palace after lockdown in addition to extra concepts for day journeys from London with children
Buckingham Palace
In the event you’re fascinated by the royal household, the place else must you begin than the monarch’s personal official residence? You will get a glimpse of the outside of Buckingham Palace year-round, in addition to the prospect to go indoors for a couple of months of the 12 months.
Check out the flagpole to search out out whether or not the King is staying there throughout your go to: if it’s the Royal Commonplace, meaning Charles III is in residence, but when it’s the Union Flag, he’s presently residing elsewhere. In the event you’re visiting on a weekday, you’ll have extra luck discovering him in than a weekend.
There are numerous totally different opening instances on the public areas of Buckingham Palace, with its normal predominant opening dates working for 10 weeks from July to September, plus with some particular guided excursions of the State Rooms throughout the remainder of the 12 months.
Take a look at my suggestions for visiting Buckingham Palace with children
The Palace gardens are additionally open through the summer time months, whereas the Queen’s Gallery is normally open year-round (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays) – prebook tickets right here.
And it’s also possible to see a number of the well-known carriages (and horses within the stables) on the Royal Mews.
For extra concepts of one of the best royal locations in London with children, try my prime picks from palaces to historic websites
Kensington Palace
Childhood dwelling of Queen Victoria, Kensington Palace was a favorite of George II and his court docket, and has additionally been dwelling to Diana, Princess of Wales and Prince William and Harry.
With altering displays, together with a brand new exhibition on royal trend, it’s also possible to see shows from Queen Victoria’s early years, from her tough relations together with her mom to her first assembly with future husband Prince Albert, in addition to tracing her path from a princess no-one thought can be Queen to her coronation.
Elsewhere within the palace you may nonetheless play Georgian playing video games, spot a throne, marvel on the grand staircase and picture the balls held right here – plus the seedier aspect of the royal court docket with some horrible historical past positive to entertain children.
Prebooking tickets is beneficial – and Kensington Gardens are on the doorstep to discover afterwards.
Take a look at my overview of visiting Kensington Palace with children in addition to the Crown to Couture exhibition
Altering of the Guard
One other custom that dates again centuries – this one to the late fifteenth century – the Altering of the guard is one among London’s hottest free sights as they march of their well-known bearskin hats as a full navy band performs.
The Family Troops have guarded Buckingham Palace since Queen Victoria moved in in 1837, though they’ve guarded the monarch and royal palaces for hundreds of years earlier than then. And from 10.43am, the Outdated Guard arms over to the New Guard in a ceremony which takes round an hour.
You can too see the guards beginning to kind up by the palace from 10.30am and the brand new guard arriving from Wellington Barracks. The Altering of the Guard usually takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, every day throughout June and July, however could also be cancelled for main occasions in addition to notably unhealthy climate – test it’s going forward earlier than you queue.
Anticipate to get there early if you need a great place – being too near the palace isn’t all the time splendid, as you don’t essentially have one of the best view by means of the gates. In the event you’re visiting London with youthful children, get a style at Wellington Barracks on Birdcage Stroll beforehand, the place you may spot them forming up and listen to the music at round 10.15.
For a much less busy choice, it’s also possible to see the Queen’s Life Guard change on Horse Guards Parade, which tends to be much less busy – 11am every day, besides on Sundays when it takes place at 10am.
For extra concepts of free issues to do in London with children, try my prime picks – plus this downloadable model
Hearken to Large Ben
One of many icons of London, the Elizabeth Tower – which homes Large Ben – has been beneath scaffolding for the previous couple of years throughout a protracted restoration undertaking, however has been unveiled in all its glory as soon as once more.
The 96m tall clocktower dates again to 1859 and with London visitors (and many guests climbing the steps inside as a part of the Large Ben excursions), the renovations had been the primary for round 40 years.
Now unveiled as soon as once more, the clock face is seen and excursions have began once more (with restricted numbers) as soon as all of the conservation work is completed.
The 13.7 tonne Nice Bell, as Large Ben is formally identified, was silenced through the facelift, apart from particular events, however the well-known ‘booooong’ is ringing once more, putting the hour and sounding the quarter chimes.
Homes of Parliament
In the event you’ve all the time fancied seeing contained in the Homes of Parliament there are numerous excursions you may take to discover inside.
There are multimedia excursions, for those who want to go at your individual tempo – together with an audio information for youths – or you may take one of many guided excursions, to find extra in regards to the historical past and traditions of Parliament and its dwelling.
In addition to the 90-minute guided tour obtainable for all guests, there’s additionally a 75-minute free choice for UK residents.
UK residents also can get a free ticket to see a debate, both within the Home of Commons or the Home of Lords – value doing for those who fancy taking in one of many extra in style debates. You’ll want ID, there’s airport-style safety and it’s an excellent plan to decorate fairly neatly too.
Contact your MP prematurely, in any other case you may probability your luck on the day and queue to get in to see the Home in session – recess very often coincides with faculty holidays for those who’re visiting with children although.
Westminster Abbey
Unmissable in case your children are taken with British historical past, over 3,300 individuals have been buried or commemorated at Westminster Abbey, together with 16 separate British monarchs (or 17, for those who imagine the bones considered the Princes within the Tower embody these of Edward V) plus lots of their consorts.
As you discover inside, you may see the tombs of Henry V and all of the Tudors besides Henry VIII, alongside early kings comparable to Edward the Confessor, who died per week after the abbey was consecrated.
Plantagenet kings together with Henry III, who had the present abbey constructed within the 13th century, and Edward I additionally lie right here, whereas Mary I and Elizabeth I share a tomb. The final King of England to be buried right here is George II.
And each king or queen of England has been topped right here, besides two – Edward V, who was deposed and presumed murdered earlier than his coronation, and Edward VIII who abdicated earlier than his may happen.
Prebooking tickets is beneficial – or get discounted tickets for those who e book by means of my hyperlink utilizing code MUMMYTRAVELS6.
Nationwide Belief
You have to enterprise out of central London to discover the capital’s Nationwide Belief websites, however there are some nice historic homes to discover, in addition to beautiful grounds to get outdoor in London with children.
- Osterley Park
The ‘palace of palaces’, as the home in west London was described, has reopened and you may discover the gorgeous gardens in addition to the ‘lengthy stroll’ by means of the woods. Prebook tickets right here. Take a look at a number of the issues to do on a time out at Osterley Park
- Ham Home
This Nationwide Belief property in south west London sits on the banks of the river Thames and has its personal beautiful gardens and parkland to discover – there are sometimes nice household trails at school holidays, plus crafts within the servants’ quarters. Prebook tickets right here Get a style of Ham Home with children on this publish.
English Heritage
London can be dwelling to a number of superb English Heritage properties, though once more, you’ll should enterprise a little bit approach out of the centre.
- Kenwood Home
One of many closest historic homes to central London, set in Hampstead, you’ll additionally discover nice Christmas trails at Kenwood. Prebook tickets right here. - Eltham Palace
Uncover the fantastic Artwork Deco inside of the mansion, together with the medieval nice corridor, gardens, playground and cafe. Prebook tickets right here - Chiswick Home
Spot velvet wallpaper, Outdated Masters and different luxurious touches at this Palladian villa in west London. The gardens are free for the general public to enter, or prebook tickets right here to see inside the home. - Marble Hill Home
The ‘nation retreat’ of the Countess of Suffolk in Twickenham, south west London, reopened in Might 2022 after a significant restoration, bringing the Georgian villa to life and retelling the dramatic story of her life. Free to enter, prebook tickets right here.
There’s presently 15% off membership for English Heritage utilizing code EHAFF2023
Gunnersbury Park and Museum
The Rothschilds west London mansion as soon as laid declare to being probably the most opulent homes within the capital – Disraeli stated even a banquet at Windsor Fort and Buckingham Palace couldn’t examine to dinner right here.
Now changed into the Gunnersbury Park Museum, you may be taught extra about its historical past in addition to exploring the outdated kitchens, with interactive enjoyable for youths and a small museum on the realm.
Entry is free, though the museum is presently closed on Mondays. You can too uncover a number of the secrets and techniques of the park – together with a waterside temple constructed for a princess.
For extra concepts of free issues to do in London with children, try my prime picks – plus this downloadable model
London museums and artwork galleries with children
London is a sheer treasure trove of fabulous museums, lots of them free to go to – prebooked tickets is probably not required year-round however are normally beneficial throughout peak season, some with timed slots.
The most well-liked museums do get booked up quick throughout faculty holidays too so it’s value snapping up the early entry instances.
Take a look at this publish for extra recommendations on visiting London’s greatest museums with children
The Pure Historical past Museum
In the event you see just one museum in London with children (and actually, one isn’t sufficient!), make it the great Pure Historical past Museum.
Most well-known for its dinosaurs, these are nonetheless the spotlight for many younger guests – even when Dippy the dinosaur has moved on from his dwelling in the primary Hintze Corridor, to get replaced by Hope the Blue Whale.
The dinosaurs are solely the start although, with galleries on mammals and bug life, birds galore and marine creatures, plus geology and the well-known earthquake simulator.
There are additionally common exhibitions, for an additional cost – earlier occasions have included the Improbable Beasts exhibition, whereas Dippy’s transient return is being adopted by a particular Titanosaur exhibition for 2023.
You’ll be able to prebook tickets to the Pure Historical past Museum, which is strongly suggested for peak intervals, together with weekends and college holidays.
The Science Museum
One other of the most well-liked museums to go to in London with children, and one other free choice, the Science Museum has some unbelievable shows to enchantment to the entire household.
The Backyard, geared toward youthful children with its water play, tactile interactives and large blocks, and the Sample Pod are each splendid locations to start out.
Though the first-come first-served restrict on numbers isn’t now in operation, it’s value heading there early as it could possibly get crowded throughout vacation intervals.
For extra issues to do in South Kensington with children, try my decide of one of the best
Elsewhere, you may uncover the evolution of transport, from the earliest steam engine to the primary automobiles and area journey, in addition to galleries on communications, the Secret Lifetime of the Dwelling, and extra.
Older children will love Wonderlab too – this does have a cost, and prebooking tickets (and a timed entry slot) is suggested – with the prospect to get arms on and experiment, in addition to seeing reside reveals. Or the brand new Technicians gallery is nice for teenagers.
You’ll be able to select your timed entry to the primary museum to coincide along with your Wonderlab go to, or to permit time to discover the primary collections first in addition to afterwards. Prebooking tickets to the museum can be beneficial, particularly at peak intervals, together with weekends and college holidays.
The British Museum
The British Museum is one among my very own favourites, and with some nice Explorer trails to obtain and comply with, it’s one to take pleasure in with preschoolers up.
And there are merely 1000’s of things to see, together with the well-known mummies and the Rosetta Stone within the Historical Egypt part, together with items from historical Greece, Rome and Assyria, in addition to Africa, the Americas, and a moai from Rapa Nui (Easter Island).
However that’s actually solely the beginning of what there’s to find. The truth is, there’s a lot that it’s greatest to not try every thing in a single go to.
You possibly can tackle one of many Museum Missions, or search for the 12 key highlights to see with children on the British Museum.
Or for college age children, it’s straightforward to theme a go to round a selected civilisation or tradition too, plus there are concepts for what to do when you’ve got one hour on the museum, or three hours on the museum.
Tickets are free (children additionally go free within the particular exhibitions, though there’s a cost for adults) however you’re suggested to prebook, with timed slots.
For extra concepts of free issues to do in London with children, try my prime picks – plus this downloadable model
Museum of London
Do you know that hippos as soon as lived the place Trafalgar Sq. now lies? The place higher to find extra about London than the museum devoted to it.
EDIT: The museum is now quickly closed till reopening in its new web site at Smithfield in 2026
The Museum of London follows the story of the town from prehistoric instances by means of to extra fashionable ers, from the Romans and Saxons to medieval London and the plague, the Nice Hearth and extra.
There are trails to comply with by means of the galleries, and you may pop inside a recreated Saxon home and stroll by means of a Victorian Avenue, plus there’s normally probability to get arms on with a number of the gadgets.
It’s not solely historical historical past although: you may see the 2012 Olympic cauldron, in addition to studying extra about London through the Second World Battle, and post-war Britain.
One other free museum, you may even spot a bit of Roman Wall as you are available, as an added bonus.
Tickets can be found on the door however can be prebooked, beneficial throughout faculty holidays, though this museum does are typically quieter than the British Museum and Kensington museums.
Museum of London Docklands
The sister web site of the Museum of London, the Museum of London Docklands sits in a transformed warehouse on West India Quay, as soon as the center of London’s thriving docks business, and it’s the right place to find this aspect of the capital.
Like its sister web site, galleries are set out in chronological order, so guests journey from late Tudor instances by means of to the trendy day, when London’s monetary district took over the realm.
In addition to interactive sections, comparable to strolling by means of a recreation of Sailortown and looking out inside an air raid shelter, there are shows on slaver, in addition to on the Nice Stink and the Nice Dock Strike, so some harder-hitting matters lined right here.
Nice for barely older children, you’ll additionally discover short-term exhibitions, and intelligent touchscreen shows which don’t truly require you to the touch the display.
For youthful guests, the Mudlarks Kids’s gallery has additionally had a latest facelift, with free tickets additionally now obtainable for households with children aged eight and beneath – there are periods all through the day, however you do have to prebook a time (obtainable from the day earlier than).
Entry to the primary museum is free, with tickets obtainable on the door. There are additionally common occasions throughout faculty holidays.
Learn extra about my go to to the Museum of London Docklands with children right here.
London Transport Museum
For youthful children who love buses and trains, the gathering on the London Transport Museum in Covent Backyard is sheer heaven – however it’s an incredible choice with older children too.
The museum follows the event of transport from sedan chairs and carriage, to river journey, trams proper by means of to the well-known crimson double decker buses and tube trains.
Take a look at my overview of a go to to the London Transport Museum with children
In addition to with the ability to see altering designs and the event of the long-lasting tube map and indicators, children can faux to drive a bus and get behind the controls of a tube prepare simulator.
There’s additionally a particular play space for youths aged beneath seven, plus common household and craft actions, and particular exhibitions together with the Hidden London space.
Tickets might be prebooked or purchased on arrival, and the acquisition entitles you to an annual go. There’s presently a reduction on tickets to the London Transport Museum for those who e book with tiqets, utilizing code MUMMYTRAVELS6.
The Younger V&A (Museum of Childhood)
After being closed for years, the London Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Inexperienced reopened in summer time 2023 with a brand new look and a brand new identify – the Younger V&A.
With its shows of toys and video games, it has been a household favorite for years (not least for the nostalgia worth), and the much-loved highlights may also be returning alongside some new future favourites – look out for Kermit the frog becoming a member of the gathering.
Nonetheless whereas the constructing is identical grand corridor, children have been concerned in developing with the redesigned look, now themed round three galleries: Play, Think about and Design.
Better of all there are many possibilities to get arms on, whether or not that’s acting on stage, listening to storytelling, creating Minecraft cities or hitting the sandpit, in addition to new gadgets happening show, with a complete of two,000 gadgets to take pleasure in.
The Victoria and Albert Museum
The world’s largest museum of ornamental arts and design just isn’t probably the most clearly family-friendly of the South Kensington museums, however there’s much more to the Victoria & Albert museum for youths than you may count on.
You’ll be able to discover collections spanning 5,000 years of artwork, in addition to cultures from around the globe, so there’s an infinite supply of inspiration – to not point out the short-term exhibitions, together with latest ones which featured Peter Rabbit, Winnie the Pooh and Alice in Wonderland, in addition to one specializing in Korea, excellent for Ok-Pop obsessed teenagers.
The museum additionally has numerous interactive shows, household actions and kids’s exercise packs to find as properly.
Tickets to the primary museum don’t should be prebooked, and it’s free to go to, however there’s a cost for some exhibitions and prebooking is important for the most well-liked occasions.
Take a look at what we considered a go to to the V&A with younger children
Tate Trendy
With two branches of the Tate to select from in London, you can simply pack each into one go to – there’s even a boat which hyperlinks the 2 – however for those who solely decide one gallery to go to, Tate Trendy is good with children.
Set in a transformed energy station on London’s Bankside, it’s undoubtedly not your common artwork gallery – children are inspired to speak (and there’s loads of area to run round within the turbine corridor) plus you’ll discover plenty of straightforward methods even for youthful ones to take pleasure in what they see together with advised video games.
You’ll additionally discover advised routes for households to comply with by means of the collections, which embody large names from the 20th century, comparable to Matisse, together with works from the previous decade.
You don’t have to prebook tickets and entry is free, apart from exhibitions (prebooking is beneficial for these, typically important).
For extra concepts of free issues to do in London with children, try my prime picks – plus this downloadable model
The Cutty Sark
In case your children are searching for a extra hands-on strategy to historical past, it’s exhausting to beat a go to to the Cutty Sark in Greenwich – additionally splendid to mix with a boat journey alongside the Thames.
There are kids’s trails to comply with across the historic clipper ship and shows on its historical past, whereas it’s also possible to wander by means of the ship peeking inside cabins and discovering extra in regards to the cargo she carried.
Better of all, you may discover proper from the copper-bottomed hull to the deck (be careful for the carved monkey), in addition to attempting the varied interactive shows together with an opportunity to attempt crusing a digital ship (more durable than it appears to be like as we found on our go to!)
For extra concepts of issues to do in Greenwich, try this publish – for those who’re visiting greater than one of many Royal Museums Greenwich, which additionally consists of the free Nationwide Maritime Museum, Royal Observatory and Queen’s Home, you will get a reduction on a Royal Museums Greenwich go for those who purchase from Tiqets utilizing the code MUMMYTRAVELS6
The Horniman Museum
With a little bit little bit of every thing, the Horniman Museum is especially enjoyable with youthful children – splendid in case your toddlers really feel overwhelmed by the town too because it’s outdoors central London.
With galleries on totally different themes, it’s is sweet for little consideration spans as you may wander from the well-known overstuffed walrus in pure historical past to world music and tradition, to see butterflies and wander the grounds outdoors, the place you’ll discover extra animals.
It’s free to enter the primary museum so that you don’t have to prebook, though there’s a small cost for the butterfly home, aquarium and any short-term exhibitions – prebooking is beneficial for these as numbers/area are restricted.
Take a look at our go to to the Horniman Museum..
The Nationwide Gallery
With properly over 2,000 works, you may see a number of the best artwork on the planet on the Nationwide Gallery – and also you don’t have to have an in-depth grasp of artwork historical past to take pleasure in trying on the collections.
For a straightforward introduction, attempt discovering the gallery’s 30 highlights, in addition to the brand new immersive app, The Keeper of Work geared toward households and youngsters.
For inventive children, don’t go with out packing a pad and a few colouring pencils – you’ll spot loads of different households stopping to create their very own artwork alongside the way in which, whereas there are additionally household occasions throughout faculty holidays and at weekends. Test right here for what’s developing.
Tickets to the Nationwide Gallery are free – prebooking is beneficial for the exhibitions.
Children who love artwork also needs to try the Royal Academy of Arts – exhibitions are free for kids beneath 16, and the Nationwide Portrait Gallery, which reopened in June 2023
Museum of the Dwelling
Reopened in 2021 after an £18 million three-year facelift, the Museum Of The Dwelling (previously the Geffrye Museum) has nearly double the area of its former incarnation.
Tracing every thing from altering fashions and expertise at dwelling to the impression of faith, in addition to tackling homelessness, it’s a fascinating approach for youths to grasp altering society and totally different cultures by means of individuals’s homes.
And the interval rooms by means of time, all the time a customer favorite have remained too, together with plenty of interactives, whether or not that’s taking part in on early video games consoles or attempting to squash digital bedbugs.
Free to go to, together with some beautiful little themed gardens, there’s no have to prebook.
Take a look at my overview of the Museum of the Dwelling right here
Imperial Battle Museum London
Based through the First World Battle, the galleries on the Imperial Battle Museum give attention to the experiences of individuals affected by warfare, so when you’ll additionally get to see some very giant weapons, planes hanging from the ceiling and collections of medals, there’s extra emphasis on particular person tales.
A brand new gallery overlaying the Second World Battle was added in 2021, excellent for youths learning it at college, and the museum runs common household occasions throughout faculty holidays – latest ones have lined every thing from spies and espionage to warfare in video and laptop video games.
There’s a separate exhibition on the Holocaust as properly, though that is solely beneficial for kids aged 14+.
Tickets for IWM London can be found on the door – you’ll have to attend at busy instances so prebooking timed entry slots is beneficial.
Older children may also take pleasure in visiting the Churchill Battle Rooms, the place you will get a glimpse what life would have been like in these secret corridors through the tense days and nights of the Second World Battle
HMS Belfast
As soon as a Royal Navy gentle cruiser, now a museum ship completely moored on the Thames, HMS Belfast is probably the most vital surviving Second World Battle Navy warship – current on the D-Day landings and within the Korean Battle.
As soon as on board, you may uncover what life would have been like for the crew who served aboard – and with 9 decks to discover, there’s lots to see aboard.
Interactive experiences vary from a sound set up inside a gun turret to an opportunity to see simply what it takes to feed the 950 males aboard (trace: meaning peeling a LOT of potatoes) and steering the ship.
There are additionally recollections from veterans who served on HMS Belfast, in addition to common household trails and actions throughout faculty holidays. Prebooking tickets is beneficial.
RAF London
The Royal Air Drive Museum in Colindale, north London tells the story of the RAF over its first 100 years, from its founding in 1918.
Contained in the hangars, you may see a complete string of plane from through the years, in addition to shows of every thing from logbooks and hidden maps to survival rations, plus different autos.
Children can attempt on an RAF uniform or check their very own response instances, together with sensory areas to the touch the fashions and uncover some RAF smells and sounds, plus the prospect for the littlest ones to climb right into a miniature aircraft.
There’s additionally an incredible playground with mini fashions of plane. Tickets to the museum are free however have to be prebooked.
For extra concepts of free issues to do in London with children, try my prime picks – plus this downloadable model
The Nationwide Military Museum
With 5 galleries every thing from life as a soldier to the impression the military has had on the world, the Nationwide Military Museum in Chelsea is a superb choices for youths who love historical past (or taking part in troopers).
There are sections on the English Civil Battle, in addition to later conflicts, plus artefacts linked to everybody from Napoleon to Lawrence of Arabia.
However probably the most in style areas for youthful children is the museum’s Play Base, geared toward children aged one to eight, with a comfortable play assault course, and play vans and cookhouses – restricted numbers and periods, so that is one you could prebook for.
Entry to the primary museum is free and doesn’t should be prebooked. There’s a cost for Play Base, and timed hourly periods so whereas you will get tickets on the day, prebooking is beneficial at peak instances.
The Postal Museum
One of the vital uncommon museums in London, the Postal Museum covers the historical past of the Royal Mail – however that is undoubtedly not only for stamp collectors.
With a particular play space, Sorted, for age eight and beneath, plus the Mail Rail prepare to journey, there’s loads of interactive enjoyable for youths.
The shows cowl a number of the quirkier aspect of the historical past of the publish, from a lion on Salisbury Plain to cryptic Valentine playing cards, and a number of the rarest and most dear stamps round.
Prebooking is beneficial for the 45-minute periods at Sorted (it’s additionally barely cheaper than paying on the day), an immersive mini-town with possibilities to get constructing and little streets to inhabit.
Teenagers also can go on the particular tunnel walks, whereas there are periods for neurodiverse households too.
Tickets give limitless entry for a 12 months, though they’re solely legitimate for one journey on Mail Rail throughout your first go to – there’s a reduction for those who prebook. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays (besides some dates throughout faculty holidays).
For extra uncommon issues to do in London with children, try my decide of one of the best
Get outdoor in London
London could also be one of many world’s largest cities however there’s nonetheless loads of inexperienced area – the eight royal parks alone cowl a whopping 5,000 acres, not forgetting the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew and loads of locations to play.
Get a free record of the highest 20 locations to get outdoor in London with children for those who join the London with Children e-newsletter right here
Go to the parks
London’s parks are excellent for those who’re trying to escape the crowds, or for some cool inexperienced area on sunny days, and every has its personal character – to not point out bogs and cafes, and normally no less than one playground.
In central London alone, you may wander by means of Hyde Park, with the Diana Memorial fountain to find in addition to its personal playground for youths and the Serpentine Lake.
Subsequent door, Kensington Gardens is dwelling to the Diana Memorial Playground (working a one-in one-out rule at busy instances), probably the greatest playgrounds within the metropolis, together with the Peter Pan statue and the fountains within the north-east nook.
The well-known pelicans at St James’s Park are one of many largest sights there – and an incredible place to burn off some steam after visiting Westminster.
You’re nearly assured to identify the birds swimming and lounging on their island as you wander by means of the oldest of the royal parks.
Or spot the peacocks in Holland Park, typically to be discovered strutting close to the Japanese backyard. There’s an incredible journey playground right here for youths too.
Pitzhanger Manor has a free nature treasure hunt to obtain that’s nice for exploring any park or deliver a duplicate of I Spy within the Park for some added enjoyable
Not removed from the British Museum, Coram’s Fields is dwelling to playgrounds, a wildlife backyard and paddling pool – and it’s excellent for households as you’re solely allowed in for those who’re visiting Coram’s Fields with children.
In north London, you can get a sneak peek of some of the animals at the zoo from the trail at Regent’s Park, or mix your stroll with a stroll alongside the Regent’s Canal.
From right here, you can additionally head to Primrose Hill, or additional north is the open area of Hampstead Heath and Golders Hill park with its personal little free zoo.
In the event you’re in south London, you may take pleasure in some extra river views from Battersea Park as discover tranquillity on the Peace Pagoda. The sights throughout the park embody Battersea Park Kids’s Zoo (check out my overview of the little zoo right here), and Putt within the Park mini golf, plus the Go Ape excessive ropes course.
Additional out, in addition to recognizing deer at Richmond Park, you can climb King Henry’s Mound and absorb the views of the town or see the vivid flowers of the Isabella Plantation.
Greenwich park has its personal herd of deer in addition to some nice views from the hill on the Royal Observatory.
And for a extra uncommon time out in London with children, you may nonetheless head to Crystal Palace park to see the dinosaurs (the megalosaurus is again with a facelift – it had been present process repairs after sadly being broken a couple of years in the past).
For extra free locations to go to in London with children try this publish – or purchase my downloadable information
Discover a playground
Together with the playgrounds within the royal parks, together with the Diana Memorial Playground and Holland Park journey playground, you’ll discover some nice locations for youths to have enjoyable all through the town.
Paddington Recreation Floor – aka Paddington Rec, close to Maida Vale tube – is among the most spectacular, with its pastel colored playhouses, steamliner, prepare, tunnel, musical devices and forest play space, all designed to encourage inventive play.
On the riverside, Bishop’s Park has water play and an city seashore amongst its playgrounds, plus a rose backyard and sculpture backyard. You possibly can additionally be part of the Thames Path right here in addition to testing Fulham Palace gardens subsequent door.
Jubilee Park & Backyard close to the London Eye has its personal playground for those who’re taking a stroll alongside the South Financial institution.
And in east London, Victoria Park has each a playground and a splash park, or there’s the Tumbling Bay playground with sand, wobbly bridges, swimming pools and extra to play in on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
For extra of the greatest playgrounds in London, try this publish
Splash within the fountains
One attraction that’s just for the summer time, there’s nothing like cooling off from the warmth of the town in one of many pop-up fountains.
Simply behind King’s Cross, the fountains at Granary Sq. are made up of 1,080 choreographed jets – every individually managed – which squirt in patterns for youths to splash in.
Or on the South Financial institution, the Showing Rooms on the Southbank Centre is a enjoyable various (children have to put on a prime right here). Designed as an interactive sculpture, the jets of water create ‘rooms’ as they shoot into the air – earlier than vanishing once more simply as rapidly.
Additional alongside the river, you’ll discover the Extra London fountains close to Tower Bridge, and one other set within the courtyard of Somerset Home on the alternative financial institution.
It goes with out saying to take spare garments!
For extra concepts of issues to do in London with toddlers and preschoolers, try this publish
Stroll by the river
There are miles and miles of Thames path to discover in addition to the parks – one among my favorite elements of the town, the river is the true coronary heart of London for me.
There are many London sights by the Thames if you wish to mix one thing else along with your stroll.
In any other case, head to the South Financial institution, the place there’s all the time one thing to see – try the programme right here, from the Christmas market in winter to pop-up occasions and festivals with avenue meals, reside music, markets, rides and video games.
One among my favorite stretches of river, you’ll discover quirky artwork and iconic buildings for a few of London’s greatest Instagram views too.
In the event you’re trying to get onto the river itself, try one of the best boat journeys in London with children
Discover the canals
For an additional waterfront wander, head to London’s canals. The stretch of the Regent’s Canal round Little Venice is among the greatest identified however it’s also possible to head right down to Paddington Basin, to take a look at the Floating Pocket Park (mini inexperienced areas which bob on the water).
At noon on Wednesdays and Fridays, you may see the Fan Bridge being lifted at Paddington Basin as properly, whereas the close by Rolling Bridge curls itself into an octagon on the identical time (and 2pm on Saturdays).
In the event you fancy a visit on the canals round Paddington, Go Boat has self-drive electrical boats for rent – try our overview of attempting Go Boat with children
Go Ape excessive ropes
Head up into the bushes to get your coronary heart racing at one of many London Go Ape areas.
There are a number of totally different programs to select from, however probably the most central is Go Ape Battersea Park, together with a treetop journey course for those who’re visiting with youthful children (minimal peak 1m).
Head additional out and there are extra programs at Alexandra Palace with some nice views to distract you: one of many two treetop journey programs at Ally Pally is for any age (1m+), the opposite with a bit extra problem for age 6+ and 1.2m tall.
Or at Cockfosters has a course that’s good for older children, though that is solely appropriate for ages 10+ and 1.4m tall.
Stroll The Line
The Line is London’s first public artwork stroll, working between the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and The O2, alongside a few of east London’s waterways and following the road of the Greenwich Meridian.
There are half a dozen artworks on the North Greenwich peninsula alone, close to The O2 for those who don’t fancy following all the route, which takes round 2 1/2 hours to stroll (seemingly extra for those who’re doing it with children!)
Go to Kew Gardens
I’ve visited Kew Gardens numerous instances with my daughter, ranging from a picnic shortly after she was born to repeated visits throughout lockdowns and particular faculty vacation occasions – and there’s all the time one thing new to find.
Take a look at my suggestions for exploring Kew Gardens with children
You’ll discover common household occasions going down, from faculty vacation trails (comparable to this one themed round the Beano) to the Christmas at Kew gentle path, in addition to the unbelievable Kids’s Backyard playground.
However even other than the additional actions, there are acres to discover, recognizing the dragons on the pagoda and the close by Japanese backyard, seeing peacocks strut alongside Cedar Vista and recognizing Syon Palace throughout the river from Syon Vista.
You’ll be able to stroll contained in the Hive and head as much as the treetop cover, enterprise into the glass homes, and discover out what it feels wish to be a badger – to not point out flowers galore all year long.
Tickets can be found a number of months prematurely – click on right here to prebook – and time slots to the Kids’s Backyard can be prebooked, which is a good suggestion throughout peak season, weekends and college holidays particularly.
You can too go to Kew Palace as a part of entry to the gardens, whereas Queen Charlotte’s cottage is normally open through the summer time months.
WWT London Wetland Centre
At this inexperienced oasis not removed from Hammersmith, you may spot short-clawed otters and uncover extra in regards to the wetlands, in addition to attempting household actions throughout holidays.
There are additionally two play areas – an indoor play room, which is nice on colder, drizzly days, in addition to the Wild Stroll and fabulous wildlife-themed outside play space, with tunnels, water play and the standard playground enjoyable.
Look out for particular trails, together with large Lego statues, in addition to serving to children to be taught extra about nature and conservation as you stroll across the wetlands themselves.
Tickets to the London Wetland Centre in Barnes might be prebooked, though it’s not important.
Examine a few of our earlier visits to whet your urge for food right here – assembly the otters on the London Wetlands and our time out pond dipping.
See Walthamstow Wetlands
Round quarter-hour from central London, the Walthamstow Wetlands are the most recent and largest wetlands within the metropolis and are free to go to – with 13 miles of paths by means of the character reserve to discover throughout 211 hectares.
Europe’s largest city wetland reserve is about round 10 reservoirs, and there are common trails to find, plus a customer centre within the Victorian Engine Home.
Additionally it is strolling distance from a number of tube stations, together with Tottenham Hale and Blackhorse Highway on the Victoria Line, which is round 10 minutes from the primary entrance on Ferry Lane/Forest Highway.
For extra free locations to go to in London with children try this publish – or purchase my downloadable information
Fulham Palace Gardens
As soon as the gardens at Fulham Palace had been the protect of Bishops, who’d stroll right here on the banks of the Thames. Now the 13 acres of botanic gardens are open to the general public, together with a pure play space.
Whilst you go to, it’s also possible to pop inside the home and museum – prebook a free timeslot to go searching or simply flip up. There are household trails too, in addition to a restaurant, whereas Bishop’s Park is subsequent door for much more inexperienced area.
Chelsea Physic Backyard
The fascinating mixture of crops on the Chelsea Physic Backyard make it a beautiful place to whereas away an hour or so with children.
One thing of a hidden gem beside the Thames, there are sometimes kids’s trails in addition to the glasshouses to discover.
Stroll-up tickets can be found, or you may prebook tickets, together with for household exercise days.
Discover Covent Backyard
There’s all the time one thing to see across the Covent Backyard Piazza, whether or not you like to browse the market stalls, take pleasure in some avenue theatre or uncover the newest shows.
At Christmas, large baubles hold from the glass roof, when you may additionally discover something from Lego creations to Disney-inspired enjoyable to occasional leisure on the massive screens.
The road performers audition for the coveted slots right here, and also you may spot something from magic tips to music – it’s free to look at, though for those who benefit from the present, it’s solely honest to drop one thing within the hat on the finish.
Whilst you’re there, take a stroll over to close by Neal’s Yard for its eye-catchingly vivid buildings.
In the event you’re searching for one of the best locations to remain close to Covent Backyard with children, try my decide of household resorts in London
Spot avenue artwork
There’s loads of avenue artwork to identify across the capital – one thing which adjustments often, so it’s attainable to search out new additions even in your doorstep.
The most important concentrations are round East London, particularly Shoreditch and Hackney. Wander alongside Brick Lane and the roads close by, or for those who’re near Liverpool Avenue and Spitalfields, there’s avenue artwork to be discovered right here too.
The Leake Avenue tunnel close to Waterloo adjustments always however you’re assured to find one thing eye-catching right here as properly.
In any other case, the South Financial institution and Camden have lots to identify, whereas Walthamstow is making a reputation for its avenue artwork too – comply with the Wooden Avenue Partitions maps.
For extra issues to do in Camden with children, try my prime picks
And you may nonetheless spot a number of the 40 artworks created by greater than 15 artists through the London Mural Competition again in 2020.
Go on a treasure hunt
I’m an enormous fan of treasure-hunt type trails to discover cities with children – way more thrilling than merely wandering, it retains them engaged and entertained, and also you get to do plenty of sightseeing alongside the way in which.
For youthful children, I’ve created a easy scavenger hunt to identify a few of London’s iconic sights, to allow them to tick them off as they go.
Or the maps from Treasure Map Trails are excellent with children: brightly colored, with a unusual theme, plus the problem of recognizing plenty of sudden particulars you may in any other case miss.
There’s 10% off all of the Treasure Map Trails with code MUMMYTRAVELS, together with all of the central London maps – Covent Backyard, Leicester Sq. & Chinatown + Trafalgar Sq..
There are extra choices to boost a stroll in London with children from Treasure Trails too. We adopted the Greenwich Treasure Path with associates final summer time which took us from the Cutty Sark by means of the park, previous the Royal Observatory, the Prime Meridian and to the Nationwide Maritime Museum and riverside.
There’s a whole of fifty totally different Treasure Trails throughout London so that you’re assured to search out one near you – as a result of even after a lifetime visiting and residing in London, there’s all the time one thing new to find.
For concepts of the place to remain in London with children try my decide of one of the best household pleasant resorts and flats
Getting round London with children
Realistically, it’s tough to get round London with out utilizing public transport in any respect , which suggests navigating the Tfl (Transport for London) community.
This consists of the brand new Elizabeth line, tube, bus, DLR and overground, with kids beneath 11 travelling free and lowered costs for youths aged 11-15.
For extra recommendations on utilizing the London Underground with children, click on right here, together with particulars of getting lowered fares.
Take a look at the newest data on public transport in London, together with when the busiest stations and instances to keep away from are, accessibility and every other adjustments.
for those who do plan to drive, the congestion cost has been expanded over the previous couple of years, with the fee rising to £15. Some autos should pay additional throughout the Extremely Low Emission Zone, or ULEZ), which additionally expanded in 2023 to cowl all London boroughs.
And that’s all earlier than you pay for parking as properly and consider visitors and impatient drivers… so public transport is by far the best solution to get across the centre .
When you’re within the centre, I’d all the time suggest strolling round London the place you may as there’s a lot to see that you just’ll miss underground.
For extra information and concepts, join the London with Children e-newsletter or be part of the London with children Fb group which I assist to run
*First printed summer time 2020, final up to date 2023*
PIN FOR LATER: THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN LONDON WITH KIDS
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Most important picture/Science Museum/Buckingham Palace/Homes of Parliament/HMS Belfast/lion statue/Millennium Bridge/Diana memorial playground/underground signal courtesy of Depositphotos, all others copyright MummyTravels
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