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 dwelling within the capital, I’m proof constructive as my very own wishlist remains to be removed from ticked off.
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So to start out you off, I’ve rounded-up among the greatest London sights to go to with children, all good for a household time out in London – together with the best-known London household sights and museums, you could find locations to get exterior, concepts for teenagers who love animals, history-lovers, royal London and extra.
These embody my very own unmissable highlights, plus concepts if you happen to’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
If you happen to’re trying to economize on a vacation in London with children (and who isn’t), try the London Go and London Explorer Go.
Each embody barely completely different sights and offers, in addition to lasting for various durations, so the very best London metropolis cross relies upon very a lot on how lengthy you’re staying and what you’re planning to see.
For extra concepts on how to economize on days out in London with children, try my high suggestions
Thames river cruises
I really like seeing London from the river, and it’s my favorite strategy to journey all the way down to Greenwich on a sunny day too, with the river cruise and sightseeing corporations serving to you out onto the water.
Click on right here to take a look at the entire set of boat journeys in London with children
There’s an enormous alternative of boat excursions in London with children too, 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 if you happen to’re not bothered about commentary, Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is usually a less expensive possibility, and a great way to get from A to B.
Sadly, the Horrible Thames cruise from Horrible Histories ended for good in September 2025
London open-top buses
London has numerous open-top bus sightseeing excursions to select from, with completely different choices relying which routes and occasions you need.
The Unique Tour (beforehand known as Tootbus) has a particular 45-minute London Children tour in addition to the London Discovery hop-on hop-off possibility.
Or the hop-on hop-off route from London Huge Bus Excursions additionally takes you previous most key landmarks, with some reductions on-line if you happen to purchase prematurely.
If you happen to fancy creating your personal bus tour for much less – and driving on a purple 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 very best bus excursions in London with children, try my decide of the very best, together with choices for teenagers and toddlers
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is definitely essentially 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 if you happen to’re courageous sufficient, gaze out alongside the river, head into the engine rooms, and check out among the common household actions with children too.
Take a look at the Tower Bridge Path for Little Explorers and household path app whilst you’re there. Purchase tickets to Tower Bridge with free cancellation right here.
If you happen to’d like an opportunity of seeing the bridge’s spectacular opening as an even bigger boat comes via, the raise occasions let you know once they’re scheduled.
Take a look at the Tower Bridge Cat sequence of tales too, one among my picks for the very best children books about London
The Sky Backyard
London’s highest public backyard is free to go to, though you do have to ebook 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 if you happen to don’t climb it), the backyard sits on the high of the skyscraper which Londoners know because the Walkie Talkie constructing – if you happen to’re scuffling with instructions, it’s not difficult to identify.
With a coated terrace, you may get some wonderful views throughout to the Shard, St Paul’s, Tower Bridge and alongside the Thames throughout your hour slot. You may keep longer if you happen to plan go to one of many locations to eat and drink, though these are (clearly) not free.
You may as well 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 town, the London Eye can be an excellent place to get a chicken’s eye view of the capital.
Turning excessive above the South Financial institution and searching 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 if you happen to purchase your tickets on-line prematurely. There are additionally fast-track tickets out there to skip the queues, which is good with children, particularly in peak season.
You may as well 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 high 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 pose alongside fairly just a few.
There are continuously updates and new figures being added too; the Marvel Corridor of Heroes is at all times a favorite for followers of the films, there’s a Star Wars space, in addition to seeing the celebs of sport, style and movie.
Prebooked tickets are suggested – if you happen to purchase direct, you may reschedule totally free plus there are on-line reductions for reserving prematurely.
You may as well 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, control the pop-up occasions going down across the metropolis, in addition to quirky experiences like Twist Museum of Illusions
Shrek’s Journey
Shrek followers will love the prospect to stroll via the world of Far Far Away, assembly among the well-known characters together with Princess Fiona and Donkey.
There’s a problem to gather substances to seek out Shrek and make it house safely, in addition to 10 themed reside exhibits and a 4D flying bus to finish Shrek’s Journey. Higher for main college aged children who’ll recognize the enjoyable than for toddlers and preschoolers.
With the choice to reschedule totally free, you can even get mixed tickets to different Merlin sights, together with the close by aquarium or London Eye. Tickets with free cancellation are additionally out there from Get Your Information.
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 places which pop up within the movies.
Begin at King’s Cross: Platform 9 ¾ was really filmed between platforms 4 and 5, however there’s an opportunity to pose with a baggage trolley disappearing via the wall on the station concourse.
Then uncover among the places used within the Harry Potter motion pictures, 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 part from the Marauder’s Map to packets of Bertie Bott’s Each Flavour Beans.
For extra Harry Potter places in London, try this submit, or try one of many Harry Potter excursions, together with this child-friendly Harry Potter strolling tour.
And whereas the Making of Harry Potter studio tour isn’t in central London, it’s solely a brief journey from Euston and has rapidly turn out to be one of many high London sights with children.
Be ready to ebook 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 get pleasure from, in addition to the prospect to wander alongside Diagon Alley.
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 occasions as you discover the duplicate of the Golden Hinde, the ship which Francis Drake sailed all over the world.
One of many greatest shocks? How small it appears to trendy eyes, given the variety of sailors and important tools packed inside for a voyage that lasted over 1,000 days.
Tickets could be booked on-line or there are walk-up choices, in addition to some very enjoyable household experiences – to date, we’ve loved a really 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.
One among a string of places 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 nose to nose with the Nice Fireplace and Sweeney Todd.
Prebooking is strongly suggested, with on-line reductions if you happen to purchase your tickets prematurely: greatest for teenagers and braver tweens. You may as well 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 if you happen to’re visiting London with older children, try the offers on the TKTS sales space in Leicester Sq. if you happen to haven’t booked prematurely.
You may as well decide up reductions on web sites like TodayTix or ebook through See Tickets.
There’s a lot for youthful guests to get pleasure from as properly, with nice child-friendly exhibits and a few wonderful youngsters’s theatres. Attempt puppet and marionette exhibits on the Little Angel Theatre in Islington, whereas the Unicorn Theatre close to London Bridge is aimed toward mini theatregoers aged six months plus. A little bit 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 exhibits just like the Tiger Who Got here To Tea, in addition to Matilda the Musical on the Cambridge Theatre and massive title exhibits resembling Lion King, to call only a few.
For extra methods to seek out 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 right now.
And in addition to shopping for a ticket for a efficiency – positively probably the most memorable methods to see Shakespeare, particularly for teenagers learning the performs – there are sometimes household workshops and occasions throughout college holidays.
You may as well take a tour behind the scenes, together with tales of the unique sixteenth century playhouse and what London was like in Shakespeare’s Day, the way it survived plague and political oppression, together with how the Globe was recreated, all packed into 50 minutes.
Uncover Youngsters’s Story Centre
You don’t have to have the ability to learn to get misplaced in tales at Uncover: Youngsters’s Story Centre in London’s Stratford, aimed toward children aged from 0 to 11.
This incredible multi-sensory play area in east London is ideal for younger youngsters, full with two flooring of magical Story Worlds and a Story Backyard, that includes every part from a pirate ship to a spacecraft and loads of different enjoyable imaginary lands for teenagers to discover.
There are numerous timed actions and you’ll construct your personal session, together with any particular exhibitions and storytelling, plus the play areas throughout the 2 fundamental flooring.
Tickets value from £10 for adults and youngsters aged over two, £5.50 for one-year-olds, and underneath ones go free. There are additionally household tickets, whereas exhibitions and a few actions have an added cost of round £2-£5.
One among my high uncommon issues to do in London with children – you may try the remaining right here
Animal sights in London with children
There’s a lot in London for teenagers who love animals, from the largest zoos to little metropolis farms and aquariums.
London Zoo
The world’s oldest scientific zoo, London Zoo remains to be one of many metropolis’s greatest sights – for teenagers and adults – greater than 170 years after it opened.
As soon as house to the bear that impressed Winnie the Pooh, today you may see every part from lions and tigers to with the ability to stroll with lemurs, enterprise into rainforest circumstances, 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 completely different lengths, they begin and finish in roughly the identical place so you are able to do them in any order you need, and if you happen to’re wanting time, it permits you to focus in your favourites.
Hold a watch out for keeper talks which happen all through the day, in addition to particular animal experiences – you could possibly even assist feed the gorillas. If you happen to’re fortunate, you can even spot the keepers feeding the animals as you discover.
Hold a watch out for normal particular household occasions, particularly throughout college holidays, too. Tickets should be prebooked.
Discover extra info 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 Youngsters’s Zoo
This little youngsters’s zoo is nice for youthful children – much less overwhelming, much less far to stroll and loads of animals to thrill, particularly if you happen to’re wanting time (a few hours is a lot) or visiting London on a finances.
As a result of whereas London Zoo is a incredible time out with children, there’s no query that it’s a pricy one – and for youthful toddlers, they’re usually as excited by a rabbit as one thing uncommon and unique.
You gained’t discover larger creatures at Battersea Park Youngsters’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 have to be prebooked – under-twos go free.
Take a look at my evaluate of a day at Battersea Park Youngsters’s Zoo with a child in addition to extra of London’s smaller zoos, together with somewhat free zoo in north London
Sea Life London Aquarium
A stunning different to town’s zoos for animal lovers, the Sea Life London Aquarium is a good place to go to – one of many greatest collections in Europe.
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 may get busy at peak occasions and on wet days, so it’s properly price prebooking and there are often reductions if you happen to purchase on-line prematurely.
Take a look at my evaluate of go to to Sea Life London aquarium with children
Metropolis farms
If you happen to’re visiting London with children who love animals, add one of many many metropolis farms to your listing, 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 few of the farms have restricted opening hours/days, so at all times verify immediately for the newest info.
Historic sights in London
One of many issues I really like most about London is the truth that strolling down a single avenue permits you to uncover round two thousand years of historical past – my daughter and I’ve retraced among the places of the Nice Fireplace of London, in addition to exploring different components of London for teenagers who love historical past.
You may as well uncover Roman London, together with components of the outdated partitions and different outside websites, good for theming a stroll across the outdated metropolis of Londinium.
Take a look at this submit for a strolling route which takes you previous London’s well-known landmarks
The Tower of London
The Tower of London is one among my very own private favourites, and from the astonishing crown jewels to the well-known ravens and beefeaters, it’s an excellent time out with children in London too.
You may discover former royal residences, adorned as they’d have been when kings lived there, and uncover the Tower’s grim historical past as a jail too, together with a memorial to Henry VIII’s two 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 college holidays, and stroll the partitions.
Tickets could be purchased on the day, though prebooking is advisable – there’s a reduction if you happen to ebook through tiqets utilizing my code MUMMYTRAVELS6.
For a memorably uncommon night, ebook 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.
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. I’ve been visiting Hampton Courtroom Palace since my daughter was solely simply sufficiently old to toddle around the state rooms and it’s a favorite of hers to today.
In addition to exploring inside, tracing the palace’s historical past from its Tudor days (don’t miss the sprawling kitchens) to Georgian occasions, 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 really enchanting set of play areas, together with sand play, climbing tools and pretend hills.
Though it’s proper on the sting of London, there are quick trains working from Waterloo. Prebooking tickets is advisable, with extra prices for some particular household actions – there’s a reduction if you happen to ebook through tiqets utilizing my code MUMMYTRAVELS6.
Take a look at my evaluate of a time out at Hampton Courtroom Palace in addition to extra concepts for day journeys from London with children
Buckingham Palace
If you happen to’re fascinated by the royal household, the place else do you have to begin than the monarch’s personal official residence? You may get a glimpse of the outside of Buckingham Palace year-round, in addition to the prospect to go to the State Rooms for just a few months of the yr.
Check out the flagpole to seek out out whether or not the King is staying there throughout your go to: if it’s the Royal Customary, which means Charles III is in residence, but when it’s the Union Flag, he’s presently residing elsewhere. If you happen to’re visiting on a weekday, you’ll have extra luck discovering him in than a weekend.
There are numerous completely different opening occasions on the public areas of Buckingham Palace, with its traditional fundamental 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 yr.
Take a look at my suggestions for visiting Buckingham Palace with children
The Palace gardens are additionally open throughout the summer time months, whereas the King’s Gallery is often open year-round (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays) – prebook tickets right here.
And you can even see among the well-known carriages (and horses within the stables) on the Royal Mews which is open from round Easter to late October.
For extra concepts of the very best royal locations in London with children, try my high picks from palaces to historic websites
Kensington Palace
Childhood house of Queen Victoria, Kensington Palace was a favorite of George II and his courtroom, and has additionally been house to Diana, Princess of Wales and Princes William and Harry.
With altering displays, together with latest exhibitions on style, you can even see shows from Queen Victoria’s early years, from her troublesome relations together with her mom to her first assembly with future husband Prince Albert, in addition to tracing her path from the princess that 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 facet of the royal courtroom with some horrible historical past positive to entertain children.
Prebooking tickets is advisable – and Kensington Gardens are on the doorstep to discover afterwards.
Take a look at my evaluate of visiting Kensington Palace with children
Altering of the Guard
One other custom that dates again centuries, 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 army 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 palms over to the New Guard in a ceremony which takes round an hour.
You may as well see the guards beginning to kind up by St James’s 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, each day throughout June and July, however could also be cancelled for main occasions in addition to significantly unhealthy climate – verify it’s going forward earlier than you queue.
Count on to get there early if you would like a great spot – being too near Buckingham palace isn’t at all times supreme, as you don’t essentially have the very best view via the gates. If you happen to’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 possibility, you can even see the King’s Life Guard change on Horse Guards Parade, which tends to be much less busy – 11am each day, besides on Sundays when it takes place at 10am.
For extra concepts of the very best free issues to do in London with children, try my high picks – plus this downloadable model
Take heed to Huge Ben
One of many icons of London, the Elizabeth Tower – which homes Huge Ben – has been underneath scaffolding for the previous couple of years throughout a protracted restoration mission, however has now been unveiled in all its glory as soon as once more.
The 96m tall clocktower dates again to 1859 and due to London site visitors (and many guests climbing the steps inside as a part of the Huge Ben excursions), the much-needed 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, age 11+ solely) as soon as all of the conservation work is completed – or you may head to Parliament Sq. and luxuriate in gazing out on one among London’s most recognisable historic landmarks.
The 13.7 tonne Nice Bell, as Huge Ben is formally recognized, was silenced throughout the facelift, apart from particular events, however the well-known ‘booooong’ is ringing once more, placing the hour and sounding the quarter chimes.
Take a look at what I considered a Huge Ben tour, heading as much as stand beside the long-lasting bell
Homes of Parliament
If you happen to’ve at all times fancied seeing contained in the Homes of Parliament there are numerous excursions you may take to discover inside, together with the oldest part, Westminster Corridor.
There are multimedia excursions, if you happen to desire to go at your personal tempo – together with an audio information for teenagers – or you may take one of many guided excursions, to find extra concerning the historical past and traditions of Parliament and its house.
In addition to the 90-minute guided tour out there for all guests, there’s additionally a 75-minute free possibility 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 – price doing if you happen to fancy taking in one of many extra common debates. You’ll want ID, there’s airport-style safety and it’s a superb plan to decorate fairly neatly too.
Contact your MP prematurely, in any other case you may likelihood your luck on the day and queue to get in to see the Home in session – recess very often coincides with college holidays if you happen to’re visiting with children although.
Westminster Abbey
Unmissable in case your children are fascinated with British historical past, over 3,300 folks have been buried or commemorated at Westminster Abbey, together with 16 separate British monarchs (or 17, if you happen to imagine the bones regarded as the Princes within the Tower do 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 resembling Edward the Confessor, who died every week after the abbey was consecrated.
Plantagenet kings together with Henry III, who had the present abbey constructed within the thirteenth 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 advisable – or get discounted tickets if you happen to ebook via my hyperlink utilizing code MUMMYTRAVELS6.
Nationwide Belief
You want to enterprise out of central London to discover lots of the capital’s Nationwide Belief websites, however there are some nice historic homes to discover, in addition to beautiful grounds to get outside in London with children.
Osterley ParkThe Georgian home in west London was described because the ‘palace of palaces’, plus you may discover the gorgeous gardens in addition to outside actions together with the ‘lengthy stroll’ via the woods and the pure play space for teenagers. Prebook tickets right here. Take a look at among the issues to do on a time out at Osterley Park
Ham HouseThis 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 submit.
English Heritage
London can be house to a number of wonderful English Heritage properties, though once more, you’ll need to enterprise somewhat method out of the centre.
Kenwood HouseOne of the closest historic homes to central London, set in Hampstead, Kenwood now homes a formidable artwork assortment. There’s usually an excellent Christmas mild path at Kenwood too. Prebook tickets right here.
Eltham Palace Uncover the wonderful Artwork Deco inside of the mansion, together with the medieval nice corridor, gardens, playground and cafe. Prebook tickets right here
Chiswick HouseSpot 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 HouseThe ‘nation retreat’ of the Countess of Suffolk in Twickenham, south west London, reopened in Could 2022 after a serious 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 AFFEH1526
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 mentioned even a banquet at Windsor Fortress and Buckingham Palace couldn’t evaluate to dinner right here.
Now became the Gunnersbury Park Museum, you may be taught extra about its historical past in addition to exploring the outdated kitchens, with interactive enjoyable for teenagers and a small museum on the realm.
Entry is free, though the museum is presently closed on Mondays. You may as well uncover among 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 high 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 often advisable throughout peak season, some with timed slots.
The most well-liked free museums do get booked up quick throughout college holidays too so it’s price snapping up the early entry occasions.
Take a look at this submit for extra recommendations on visiting London’s greatest museums with children
The Pure Historical past Museum
If you happen to see just one museum in London with children (and actually, one isn’t sufficient!), make it the fantastic 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 house in the principle Hintze Corridor, and changed 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. Don’t miss the reopened gardens both.
There are additionally common exhibitions, for an additional cost – earlier occasions have included the Implausible Beasts exhibition, whereas Dippy’s temporary return was adopted by a particular Titanosaur exhibition, and one other on Jurassic Beasts: Monsters of the Deep.
You may 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 preferred museums to go to in London with children, and one other free possibility, the Science Museum has some incredible shows to enchantment to the entire household.
If you happen to’re visiting with youthful children, you may’t beat The Backyard within the basement degree, with its water play, tactile interactives and large blocks – my daughter’s favorite place as a toddler.
The Sample Pod can be nice for barely older preschoolers, so each make supreme locations to start out. It’s price heading to the Sample Pod early as it may get crowded throughout vacation intervals.
Or the Area Gallery has had a latest revamp, so that is one other nice possibility for teenagers who’re fascinated with journey to the moon and past.
For extra issues to do in South Kensington with children, try my decide of the very best
Elsewhere, you may uncover the evolution of transport, from the earliest steam engine to the primary vehicles 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 palms on and experiment, in addition to seeing reside exhibits. Or the Technicians gallery is enjoyable for teenagers. There are additionally common additional exhibitions and actions, resembling Energy Up for players of all ages.
You may select your timed free entry to the principle museum to coincide along with your paid visits, or to permit time to discover the principle collections first in addition to afterwards. Prebooking tickets to the museum can be advisable, 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 get pleasure from with preschooler age 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 historic 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. In actual fact, there’s a lot that it’s greatest to not try every part in a single go to – try my suggestions for visiting the British Museum with children for concepts on how you can do it.
You might tackle one of many Museum Missions, or search for the 12 key highlights to see with children on the British Museum.
Or for varsity 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 high picks – plus this downloadable model
The London Museum
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 briefly closed till reopening in its new web site at Smithfield in November 2026, though the London Museum Docklands remains to be open
The London Museum follows the story of town from prehistoric occasions via to extra trendy eras, from the Romans and Saxons to medieval London and the plague, the Nice Fireplace and extra.
There are trails to comply with via the galleries, and you’ll pop inside a recreated Saxon home and stroll via a Victorian Avenue, plus there’s often likelihood to get palms on with among the objects.
It’s not solely historic historical past although: you may see the 2012 Olympic cauldron, in addition to studying extra about London throughout the Second World Warfare, and post-war Britain.
One other free museum, you may even spot a chunk of Roman Wall as you are available, as an added bonus.
Free tickets can be found on the door however will also be prebooked, advisable throughout college holidays, though this museum does are typically quieter than the British Museum and Kensington museums.
The London Museum Docklands
The sister web site of the London Museum, the London Museum 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 facet of the capital.
Like its sister web site, galleries are set out in chronological order, so guests journey from late Tudor occasions via to the trendy day, when London’s monetary district took over the realm.
In addition to interactive sections, resembling strolling via a recreation of Sailortown and searching inside an air raid shelter, there are shows on slavery, in addition to on the Nice Stink and the Nice Dock Strike, so some harder-hitting subjects coated right here.
Nice for barely older children, you’ll additionally discover momentary exhibitions, and intelligent touchscreen shows which don’t really require you to the touch the display.
For youthful guests, the Mudlarks Youngsters’s gallery has free tickets out there for households with children aged eight and underneath – there are classes all through the day, however you do have to prebook a time (out there from the day earlier than).
Entry to the principle museum is free. There are additionally common occasions throughout college 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 – nevertheless it’s an excellent possibility with older children too.
The museum follows the event of transport from sedan chairs and carriage, to river journey, trams proper via to the well-known purple double decker buses and tube trains.
Take a look at my evaluate 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 practice simulator.
There’s additionally a particular play space for teenagers aged underneath seven, plus common household and craft actions, and particular exhibitions together with the Hidden London space.
Tickets could be prebooked or purchased on arrival, and the acquisition entitles you to an annual cross. There’s presently a reduction on tickets to the London Transport Museum if you happen to ebook 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 title – 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 a few the much-loved highlights are nonetheless on show alongside some new favourites – look out for one of many oldest Paddington toys in existence.
Nonetheless whereas the constructing is identical grand corridor, children have been concerned in arising with the redesigned look, now themed round three galleries: Play, Think about and Design. There are areas to enchantment to the youngest guests, the place studying is properly disguised as play, plus the prospect to design your personal recreation, get impressed to be inventive and extra.
The emphasis is on giving children loads of possibilities to get palms on, whether or not that’s acting on stage, listening to storytelling, creating Minecraft cities or hitting the sandpit, in addition to new objects occurring show, with a complete of two,000 objects to get pleasure from.
There are some nice momentary exhibitions as properly, together with Inside Aardman and Making Egypt in addition to a earlier exhibition on Japan: Myths and Manga.
The Victoria and Albert Museum
The world’s largest museum of ornamental arts and design just isn’t essentially the most clearly family-friendly of the South Kensington museums, however there’s much more to the Victoria & Albert museum for teenagers than you would possibly count on.
You may discover collections spanning 5,000 years of artwork, in addition to cultures from all over the world, so there’s an infinite supply of inspiration – to not point out the momentary exhibitions, with have coated every part from Peter Rabbit, Winnie the Pooh and Alice in Wonderland to Korea, good for Ok-Pop obsessed teenagers.
The museum additionally has numerous interactive shows, household actions and youngsters’s exercise packs to find as properly.
Tickets to the principle museum don’t have to be prebooked, and it’s free to go to, however there’s a cost for some exhibitions and prebooking is crucial for the preferred 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 could possibly simply pack each into one go to – there’s even a ship journey which hyperlinks the 2 – however if you happen to 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 positively 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 get pleasure from what they see together with instructed video games.
You’ll additionally discover instructed routes for households to comply with via the collections, which embody massive names from the twentieth century, resembling Matisse, together with works from the previous decade.
You don’t have to prebook tickets and entry is free, apart from exhibitions (prebooking is advisable for these, usually important).
For extra concepts of free issues to do in London with children, try my high picks – plus this downloadable model
The Cutty Sark
In case your children are on the lookout for a extra hands-on method to historical past, it’s laborious to beat a go to to the Cutty Sark in Greenwich – additionally supreme to mix with a ship journey alongside the Thames.
There are kids’s trails to comply with across the historic clipper ship and shows on its historical past, whereas you can even wander via the ship peeking inside cabins and discovering extra concerning the cargo she carried. Older children may even climb into the rigging.
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 displays – attempting to sail a digital ship is lots tougher than it seems as we found on our go to!
For extra concepts of issues to do in Greenwich, try this submit – if you happen to’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 may get a reduction on a Royal Museums Greenwich cross if you happen to purchase from Tiqets utilizing the code MUMMYTRAVELS6
Nationwide Maritime Museum
The free Nationwide Maritime museum traces Britain’s maritime historical past, with a captivating assortment that ranges from artworks and maps to mannequin ships and even the coat Nelson was carrying when he died – to not point out tales of journey and piracy in Tudor occasions, the challenges of the Polar adventures, and tales of exploring the Pacific.
There are additionally household trails, together with ones for mini mariners, whereas the enormous map proper on the coronary heart of the museum is ideal for any age, in addition to loads of household enjoyable actions aimed toward youthful guests.
Don’t miss the Ahoy Gallery for underneath sevens; the immersive play area permits you to do every part from stoking the boiler of a steamship to promoting fish within the market, in addition to discovering extra about pirates, polar tales and adventures galore. Plus The Cove playground is simply across the nook.
Entry is free, though there’s a small cost for the Ahoy gallery at weekends and college holidays (free on weekdays, prebooking suggested).
The Planetarium on the Royal Observatory is presently closed till 2028, so there are some additional ‘Astronomers Take Over‘ occasions working on the Nationwide Maritime Museum too
The Horniman Museum
With somewhat little bit of every part, the Horniman Museum is especially enjoyable with youthful children – supreme in case your toddlers really feel overwhelmed by town too because it’s exterior central London.
With galleries on completely different themes, it’s is nice 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 exterior, the place you’ll discover extra animals. EDIT: The pure historical past gallery is presently closed till early 2027
It’s free to enter the principle museum so that you don’t have to prebook, though there’s a small cost for the butterfly home, aquarium and also you’ll additionally want tickets for any momentary exhibitions – prebooking is advisable 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 among the biggest artwork on this planet on the Nationwide Gallery – and also you don’t have to have an in-depth grasp of artwork historical past to get pleasure from trying on the collections.
For a straightforward introduction, strive discovering the gallery’s 30 highlights, in addition to taking advantage of the immersive app, The Keeper of Work aimed toward households and children.
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 college holidays and at weekends. Examine right here for what’s arising.
Tickets to the Nationwide Gallery are free – prebooking is advisable for the exhibitions.
Children who love artwork must also try the Royal Academy of Arts – exhibitions are free for kids underneath 16, and the Nationwide Portrait Gallery, which reopened subsequent door to the Nationwide Gallery after a latest facelift
Museum of the Dwelling
Reopened in 2021 after an £18 million three-year facelift, the Museum Of The Dwelling (previously the Geffrye Museum) has virtually double the area of its former incarnation.
Tracing every part from altering fashions and know-how at house to the affect of faith, in addition to tackling homelessness, it’s a fascinating method for teenagers to grasp altering society and completely different cultures via folks’s homes.
And the interval rooms via time, at all times a customer favorite, have remained, together with plenty of interactives – whether or not that’s enjoying 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 evaluate of the Museum of the Dwelling right here
Imperial Warfare Museum London
Based throughout the First World Warfare, the galleries on the Imperial Warfare Museum deal with the experiences of individuals affected by conflict, so whilst 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 Warfare was added in 2021, good for teenagers learning it in school, and the museum runs common household occasions throughout college holidays – latest ones have coated every part from spies and espionage to conflict in video and pc video games.
There’s a separate exhibition on the Holocaust as properly, though that is solely advisable for kids aged 14+.
Older children can even get pleasure from visiting the Churchill Warfare Rooms, the place you may get a glimpse what life was like in these secret corridors throughout the tense days and nights of the Second World Warfare
HMS Belfast
As soon as a Royal Navy mild cruiser, now a museum ship completely moored on the Thames, HMS Belfast is essentially the most vital surviving Second World Warfare Navy warship – current on the D-Day landings and within the Korean Warfare.
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 a lot 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: which means 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 college holidays. Prebooking tickets is advisable, or you may get a reduction if you happen to ebook through tiqets utilizing my code MUMMYTRAVELS6.
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 over time, in addition to shows of every part from logbooks and hidden maps to survival rations, plus different automobiles.
Children can strive on an RAF uniform or check their very own response occasions, 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 airplane.
There’s additionally an excellent playground with mini fashions of plane and common themed actions throughout college holidays. Tickets to the museum are free however should be prebooked, and there’s a cost for among the particular vacation actions.
For extra concepts of free issues to do in London with children, try my high picks – plus this downloadable model
The Nationwide Military Museum
With 5 galleries taking a look at every part from life as a soldier to the affect the military has had on the world, the Nationwide Military Museum in Chelsea is a good choices for teenagers who love historical past (or enjoying troopers).
There are sections on the English Civil Warfare, in addition to later conflicts, plus artefacts linked to everybody from Napoleon to Lawrence of Arabia.
However probably the most common areas for youthful children is the museum’s Play Base, aimed toward children aged one to eight, with a comfortable play assault course, and play vehicles and cookhouses – restricted numbers and classes, so that is one it’s essential to prebook.
Entry to the principle museum is free and doesn’t have to be prebooked. There’s a cost for Play Base, and timed hourly classes so whereas you may get tickets on the day, prebooking is advisable at peak occasions.
The Postal Museum
One of the crucial uncommon museums in London, the Postal Museum covers the historical past of the Royal Mail – however that is positively not only for stamp collectors.
With a particular play space, Sorted, for age eight and underneath, plus the Mail Rail practice to journey, there’s loads of interactive enjoyable for teenagers.
The shows cowl among the quirkier facet of the historical past of the submit, from a lion on Salisbury Plain to cryptic Valentine playing cards, and among the rarest and most useful stamps round.
Prebooking is strongly advisable for the 45-minute classes at Sorted, 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 classes for neurodiverse households too.
Tickets give limitless entry for a yr, though they’re solely legitimate for one journey on Mail Rail throughout your first go to – there’s a reduction if you happen to prebook. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays (besides some dates throughout college holidays).
For extra uncommon issues to do in London with children, try my decide of the very best
Get outside in London
London could also be one of many world’s greatest 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.
Go to the parks
London’s parks are good if you happen to’re seeking 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 often at the least one playground.
In central London alone, you may wander via Hyde Park, with the Diana Memorial fountain to find in addition to its personal playground for teenagers and the Serpentine Lake.
Subsequent door, Kensington Gardens is house to the Diana Memorial Playground (newly renovated, and working a one-in one-out rule at busy occasions), among the best 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 greatest sights there – and an excellent place to burn off some steam after visiting Westminster.
You’re virtually assured to identify the birds swimming and lounging on their island as you wander via the oldest of the royal parks.
Or spot the peacocks in Holland Park, usually to be discovered strutting close to the Japanese backyard. There’s an excellent journey playground right here for teenagers too.
Pitzhanger Manor has a free nature treasure hunt to obtain that’s nice for exploring any park or carry a replica of I Spy within the Park for some added enjoyable
Not removed from the British Museum, Coram’s Fields is house to playgrounds, a wildlife backyard and paddling pool – and it’s good for households as you’re solely allowed in if you happen to’re visiting Coram’s Fields with children.
In north London, you could possibly get a sneak peek of some of the animals on the zoo from the trail at Regent’s Park, or mix your stroll with a brief stroll alongside the Regent’s Canal.
From right here, you could possibly 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.
If you happen to’re in south London, you may get pleasure from some extra river views from Battersea Park as discover tranquillity on the Peace Pagoda. The sights throughout the park embody Battersea Park Youngsters’s Zoo (try my evaluate 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 could possibly climb King Henry’s Mound and take in the views of 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 just a few years in the past).
For extra free locations to go to in London with children try this submit – 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 teenagers to have enjoyable all through town.
The Cove in Greenwich, by the Nationwide Maritime Museum, is large enjoyable for teenagers with sea creatures and a pirate ship at its coronary heart.
Or Paddington Recreation Floor – aka Paddington Rec, close to Maida Vale tube – is likely one of the most spectacular, with its pastel colored playhouses, steamliner, practice, 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 might additionally be part of the Thames Path right here in addition to trying out Fulham Palace gardens subsequent door.
Jubilee Park & Backyard close to the London Eye has its personal playground if you happen to’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 very best playgrounds in London, try this submit
Splash within the fountains
One attraction that’s just for the summer time, there’s nothing like cooling off from the warmth of 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 teenagers to splash in.
Or on the South Financial institution, the Showing Rooms on the Southbank Centre is a enjoyable different (children have to put on a high 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 submit
Stroll by the river
There are miles and miles of Thames path to discover in addition to the parks – one among my favorite components of 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 at all times 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.
If you happen to’re seeking to get onto the river itself, try the very 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 likely one of the greatest recognized, and residential to the Puppet Theatre Barge for some family-friendly puppet exhibits.
You may as well head all the way 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, look out for the Fan Bridge being lifted at Paddington Basin as properly, whereas the close by Rolling Bridge curls itself into an octagon on the similar time (and 2pm on Saturdays).
If you happen to fancy a visit on the canals from Paddington station, Go Boat has self-drive electrical boats for rent – try our evaluate of attempting Go Boat with children
Or maintain a watch out for Phrase on the Water close to King’s Cross, a bookshop on a barge.
Go Ape excessive ropes
Head up into the bushes to get your coronary heart racing at one of many London Go Ape places.
There are a number of completely different programs to select from, however essentially the most central is Go Ape Battersea Park, together with a treetop journey course if you happen to’re visiting with youthful children (minimal top 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 if you happen to don’t fancy following your entire route, which takes round 2 1/2 hours to stroll (probably extra if you happen to’re doing it with children!)
You may take public transport if you would like a few brief cuts too although.
Go to Kew Gardens
I’ve visited Kew Gardens numerous occasions with my daughter, ranging from a picnic shortly after she was born to repeated visits throughout lockdowns and particular college vacation occasions – and there’s at all times 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 college vacation trails (resembling this one themed across the Beano) to the Christmas at Kew mild path, in addition to the incredible Youngsters’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 may 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 seeing flowers galore all year long.
Tickets can be found a number of months prematurely – click on right here to prebook. You may as well go to Kew Palace as a part of entry to the gardens, whereas Queen Charlotte’s cottage is often open throughout 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 concerning the wetlands, in addition to attempting household actions throughout holidays.
There are additionally two play areas at WWT London – 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 same old 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 could 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 via 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 principle entrance on Ferry Lane/Forest Highway.
For extra free locations to go to in London with children try this submit – 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, you can even 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 vegetation on the Chelsea Physic Backyard make it a beautiful place to whereas away an hour or so with children. Greater than 350 years outdated, it makes Kew Gardens seem like one thing of a newcomer!
A lot smaller than London’s different botanic backyard, it’s one thing of a hidden gem beside the Thames, there are sometimes youngsters’s trails in addition to the glasshouses to discover plus particular occasions throughout college holidays.
Stroll-up tickets can be found, or you may prebook tickets, together with for household exercise days.
Discover Covent Backyard
There’s at all times one thing to see across the Covent Backyard Piazza, whether or not you like to browse the market stalls, get pleasure from some avenue theatre or uncover the newest shows.
At Christmas, large baubles cling from the glass roof, whilst you may additionally discover something from Lego creations to Disney-inspired enjoyable to occasional leisure on the large screens, to not point out among the greatest scorching chocolate in London.
The road performers audition for the coveted slots right here, and also you would possibly spot something from magic tips to music – it’s free to look at, though if you happen to benefit from the present, it’s solely truthful 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 vibrant buildings.
If you happen to’re on the lookout for the very 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 seek 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 if you happen to’re near Liverpool Avenue and Spitalfields, there’s avenue artwork to be discovered right here too.
The Leake Avenue tunnel close to Waterloo adjustments continuously 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 a lot 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 high picks, together with Camden Market
And you’ll nonetheless spot among the artworks created throughout the London Mural Competition – some stay from the 40 created by greater than 15 artists again in 2020, in addition to from the competition in 2024.
Go on a treasure hunt
I’m a giant fan of treasure-hunt fashion 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 good with children: brightly colored, with a unusual theme, plus the problem of recognizing plenty of surprising particulars you would possibly 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 mates which took us from the Cutty Sark via the park, previous the Royal Observatory, the Prime Meridian and to the Nationwide Maritime Museum and riverside.
There’s a complete of fifty completely different Treasure Trails throughout London so that you’re assured to seek out one near you – as a result of even after a lifetime visiting and dwelling in London, there’s at all times one thing new to find.
For concepts of the place to remain in London with children try my decide of the very best household pleasant resorts and residences
Getting round London with children
Realistically, it’s difficult 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 Elizabeth line, tube, bus, DLR and overground, with youngsters underneath 11 travelling free and diminished costs for teenagers aged 11-15.
For extra recommendations on utilizing the London Underground with children, click on right here, together with particulars of getting diminished fares.
Take a look at the newest info on public transport in London, together with when the busiest stations and occasions to keep away from are, accessibility and another adjustments.
if you happen to do plan to drive, the congestion cost has been expanded over the previous couple of years, with the price rising to £15. Some automobiles need to 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 site visitors and impatient drivers… so public transport is by far the simplest strategy to get across the centre .
When you’re within the centre, I’d at all times advocate strolling round London the place you may as there’s a lot to see that you simply’ll miss underground.
For extra information and concepts, join the London with Children publication or be part of the London with children Facbeook group which I assist to run
*First revealed 2020, final up to date 2026*
PIN FOR LATER: THE TOP THINGS TO DO IN LONDON WITH KIDS
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