Planning a trip to London with your kids and wondering which places will be the most fun and family-friendly? Look no further! This post is packed with ideas that will keep your little ones entertained while creating unforgettable memories for the whole family.
London is a vibrant city bursting with life, iconic landmarks and fascinating attractions. And yes, it’s also full of activities, free stuff and experiences tailored to families with young children. From magical adventures and hands-on museums to playful parks and sweet treats, London has something for every age. Let’s dive into the best kid-friendly spots in this amazing city!
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Family friendly hotels:
Park Plaza County Hall – Spacious family studios with kitchenettes and activities for kids, located on the South Bank near the London Eye and SEA LIFE Aquarium.
The Athenaeum Hotel – Luxury family apartments with kitchens and a dedicated kids’ concierge, located in Central London
Novotel London Bridge – Offers executive queen rooms with sofa beds, accommodating families of up to five. Located near the Tate Modern and Borough Market.
St Ermin’s Hotel – Family suites with two beds and two bathrooms, plus a fun Spy Kids trail. Located near Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace.
The Ampersand Hotel – Family-friendly boutique hotel with deluxe studios and a science-themed afternoon tea, near the Natural History Museum and Science Museum.
The Rubens at The Palace – Offers family rooms and a kids adventure program, steps away from Buckingham Palace.
The Dilly – Located at Piccadilly circus, with family rooms, an indoor pool, and themed afternoon teas for kids.
The Resident Kensington – Cozy family rooms with kitchenettes, located in the heart of Kensington, near museums and parks.
Citadines Trafalgar Square – Apartment-style rooms with kitchenettes, ideal for families, close to Trafalgar Square and other central attractions.
Holiday Inn London Camden Lock – Family rooms overlooking Camden Lock, with easy access to the London Zoo and Regent’s Park.
For more tips on where to stay, check out my Best Areas to Stay in London Guide to find the perfect neighborhood for your trip!
The Best Things to Do in London with Kids
Warner Bros. Studio – Harry Potter – If your kids are Harry Potter fans (or even if you are!), the Warner Bros. Studio Tour is an absolute must. Walking into the Great Hall or Gryffindor Tower feels like stepping right into the movies. You can ride the Hogwarts Express, explore the Forbidden Forest, and see incredible costumes and props from the films. It’s magical, interactive, and unforgettable! Book your Harry Potter tour here
King’s Cross Station – Platform 9¾ is a fun little stop to snap a photo with the famous luggage trolley disappearing into the wall. A quick and easy bit of magic for Harry Potter lovers!
Natural History Museum – This place is a dream for curious little explorers! The massive dinosaur skeletons (hello, T-Rex!), sparkling gemstones, and hands-on science exhibits make it perfect for kids. Plus, the building itself is stunning and its free entry
Lego Store – The Lego Store in Leicester Square is like a mini theme park for Lego lovers. The giant Lego sculptures are amazing, and there are plenty of hands-on areas where kids can play and create.
Science Museum – For kids who love experimenting and learning, the Science Museum is so much fun! It’s packed with hands-on exhibits about space, technology, and science. The Wonderlab is particularly great for younger ones.
London Zoo – Located in Regent’s Park, the London Zoo is a family favorite. With everything from penguins to lions, it’s an easy and fun way to spend a day connecting with nature.
National Museum of Childhood – This hidden gem is like stepping back in time, filled with old-school toys and games. Kids will love seeing how childhood looked back then, and parents will definitely get a nostalgia kick!
Hamleys Toy Store – A magical toy store that will blow your kids’ minds! With five colourful, interactive floors, it’s one of London’s most exciting shopping experiences for families. ( it can get very busy especially on Saturday! )
London Transport Museum – Have you ever wondered what it’s like to sit in the driver’s seat of a double-decker bus? The London Transport Museum is interactive, educational, and a big hit with kids who love vehicles.
Tower Bridge – This iconic landmark offers stunning views of London, and the glass floor walkway is a thrilling experience for kids (and grown-ups too!).
Buckingham Palace – Catch the Changing of the Guard outside Buckingham Palace – it’s one of those classic London experiences your kids will always remember. Or book a tour to see more!
Hyde Park – Whether you’re taking a boat out on the Serpentine or enjoying one of the many playgrounds, Hyde Park is a great spot to relax and let the kids run around.
Big Ben – An absolute icon! Even though you can’t go inside, seeing Big Ben up close is one of those bucket-list moments for kids and adults alike.
Cutty Sark – This historic tea clipper in Greenwich is one of the fastest sailing ships of its time. Kids can explore below deck, take the wheel, and see how sailors lived on long voyages. It’s a fun and interactive way to learn about maritime history!
Double-Decker Bus Ride – Hop on a double-decker bus and ride around London for the best way to see the city’s iconic sights. The kids will love sitting at the top!
Sea Life London Aquarium – From sharks to jellyfish, the Sea Life London Aquarium is a fantastic spot for kids. The glass tunnels make you feel like you’re walking under the sea – super cool for all ages.
The Lion King Musical – This Broadway show brings the magic of Disney to London’s West End. With incredible costumes, catchy songs, and stunning visuals, it’s a perfect first theater experience for kids and a must-see for the whole family!
The Paddington Bear™ Experience – Perfect for younger children, this adorable experience lets you follow Paddington’s pawprints and explore his charming world.
Uber Boat along the River Thames – a fun boat ride that’s perfect for first-time visitors, especially during the summer holidays. You can just tap your oyster card – no special tickets needed!
Madame Tussauds – A place full of lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and superheroes.
Where to get candy and the best dessert in London
- Hardy’s Sweet Shop – A fun, old-fashioned candy shop with lots of British and international sweets.
- M&M’s World – Colorful place where you can mix and match M&Ms in any color or flavor.
- Chin Chin Labs – Famous for cool liquid nitrogen ice cream and super-rich hot chocolate with a marshmallow topping.
- Milk Train – Soft-serve ice cream served with a big, fluffy cloud of cotton candy.
- Crumbs & Doilies – A cute bakery with amazing cupcakes and other sweet treats.
- Ben’s Cookies – Delicious, gooey cookies in many flavors
- Lola’s Cupcakes – Tasty cupcakes
- Hummingbird Bakery – Known for its rich desserts, like their famous red velvet cake.
- Hans & Gretel UK – A dessert spot with candy-covered creations
- Humble Crumble – The ultimate place for delicious crumbles topped with cream or custard, served hot and fresh.
If you’re planning a trip to London, I’ve got you covered! I put together The Only London Travel Guide You Need with all my top tips on what to see, how to get around, and hidden gems you won’t want to miss. Check it out here.
FAQ
Is travelling around London with kids easy? – London is stroller-friendly in many areas, but some older Tube stations lack elevators, which can be challenging. Buses are a great alternative since they’re all stroller-accessible, and walking is often the best way to explore
How to make travelling to London with kids more affordable – London has lots of free attractions for families! Visit places like the Natural History Museum, Hyde Park, or watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace . For food, check out markets like Borough Market or Camden Market for tasty, budget-friendly options. Grab quick meals from places like Greggs or Leon, and use apps like Too Good To Go to get cheap food at the end of the day. Save on transport by using an Oyster card or contactless payment. Kids under 11 travel free on buses and the Tube!
What’s the best time to visit London with kids – The best time to visit London with kids is spring (April-June) or early autumn (September-October), when the weather is mild and outdoor attractions are at their best. Spring offers beautiful blooms in parks, while autumn provides cozy vibes and fewer crowds. Summer can be busy and expensive, while winter has its charm with holiday lights but can be cold and wet.
How to make travelling with kids to London easier and less stressful? – Plan a mix of outdoor and indoor activities to keep the kids engaged without tiring them out. Pack snacks, water, and rain gear (London weather is unpredictable!). Stick to a few key attractions each day, and schedule breaks in parks like Regent’s Park or Kensington Gardens.
Are there any safety tips we should know for travelling with kids in London? – Stay close in busy areas like Trafalgar Square or Covent Garden, hold hands near traffic (Londoners drive on the left!), and teach kids your contact info in case you get separated.
What should we pack for the trip? – Check my list here
London is a great city for families, full of fun things to do and places to stay. From exploring famous landmarks to enjoying family-friendly hotels, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for where to stay in London with kids or the best things to do in London with kids, this guide has you covered. Share your favorite spots and tips in the comments below!
