If you’re planning a family trip to London, you might be wondering what are the best things to do with your kids. Luckily, London offers a plethora of family-friendly activities, attractions, and places that will make your trip enjoyable and memorable for everyone.
From exploring iconic landmarks to immersing yourself in interactive museums, there is no shortage of fun things to do with your kids in London. You can also discover child-friendly parks, theaters, and outdoor attractions that cater to the needs and interests of children.
Throughout this guide, we will explore the top attractions, child-friendly places, and outdoor adventures that will make your family trip to London unforgettable. So, let’s dive in and discover what London with kids has to offer!
Exploring London’s Top Attractions for Children
London is a city that offers numerous activities and attractions perfect for children. Whether you’re looking for educational experiences or thrilling adventures, there’s something for everyone in London. Here are some of the top attractions for children in London that you won’t want to miss:
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| The British Museum | One of the world’s greatest museums, the British Museum features an impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the globe. Kids can see the Rosetta Stone and the Egyptian mummies, as well as interactive exhibits designed just for them. |
| The Tower of London | A historic fortress and former royal palace, the Tower of London is home to the Crown Jewels and has a fascinating history to explore. Kids can learn about the famous prisoners who were held here, including Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes. |
| London Zoo | One of the world’s oldest and most famous zoos, London Zoo is home to over 650 species of animals. Kids can see everything from lions and tigers to penguins and meerkats, and even feed the giraffes. |
| The Science Museum | A museum dedicated to science and technology, the Science Museum is a great place for kids to learn and discover. With interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, kids can explore the wonders of science in a fun and engaging way. |
| The Natural History Museum | Home to a vast collection of specimens and artifacts, the Natural History Museum is a must-visit for any young nature enthusiast. Kids can see dinosaur skeletons, giant squid, and even a life-sized model of a blue whale. |
In addition to these top attractions, there are many other fun things to do with kids in London. You can take a ride on the London Eye, visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, or explore the Tower Bridge Exhibition. No matter what you choose, you’re sure to have a great time exploring London’s top attractions with your children.
Uncovering Child-Friendly Places in London
London has plenty of child-friendly places that cater to the interests and needs of children. From parks, theaters, and interactive experiences, you and your family can enjoy countless hours of entertainment and education.
Parks and Play Areas
London has many beautiful parks that offer a great day out for families. Hyde Park is one of the most famous parks in the city and has several playgrounds, a boating lake, and even a petting zoo. Regent’s Park is another favorite and has a fantastic playground, open-air theatre, and a boating lake.
If your kids love animals, Battersea Park Children’s Zoo is a great place to visit. They can see a range of animals, including monkeys, meerkats, and birds of prey. The zoo also has a play area, sandpit, and giant bug hotel.
Theaters and Shows
London has something for everyone when it comes to theaters and shows. For younger children, Little Angel Theatre is a puppet theatre that has been around for over 50 years. They offer various shows for children as young as 6 months old.
For older children, The National Theatre has a range of productions aimed at young audiences. They also offer backstage tours, workshops, and activities for families.
Interactive Experiences
If you want something more interactive, London has plenty of options. The Science Museum is an excellent place for children to learn about science and technology in a fun and engaging way. The museum has many interactive exhibits that allow children to learn through play.
The British Museum also offers a range of family-friendly activities, including trails and craft activities. They even have a backpack program where children can borrow a backpack filled with activities to explore the museum.
Kid-Friendly Dining
London also has many restaurants that are kid-friendly. Wahaca is a Mexican restaurant that has a separate children’s menu, complete with color-in activity sheets. Burger & Lobster is another restaurant that is great for families. They offer high chairs, booster seats, and a children’s menu that includes burgers and lobster rolls.
No matter what your children’s interests are, London has plenty of options to keep them entertained and educated during your visit. Plan your itinerary carefully and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Immersive Museum Experiences for Families in London
London is known for its exceptional museums that offer unique, interactive experiences for families. With a diverse range of options, you’re sure to find a museum that caters to your family’s interests and sense of adventure. Here are some top London attractions for families:
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Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is a must-visit for families with curious children. The museum’s interactive exhibits and displays showcase the wonders of the natural world and inspire young minds to explore science. From the realistic animatronic dinosaurs to the earthquake simulator, your family will be immersed in a world of discovery.
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The Science Museum
The Science Museum is another popular destination for families. With over 15,000 objects on display, the museum offers an incredible range of hands-on exhibits. Kids can explore the inner workings of the human body, discover the secrets of space travel, and experiment with technology in the Wonderlab.
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The British Museum
The British Museum is one of the world’s greatest collections of human history and culture. While it might not seem like the most kid-friendly destination at first glance, the museum offers free family activity trails to help guide your family on a journey of discovery. Kids can explore the world of ancient Egypt, discover the mystery of the Sutton Hoo buried treasure, or even try on Samurai armor.
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“London’s museums are a great way to spark curiosity in your children and engage them with history, science, and culture in a fun and interactive way.”
These museums are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to family-friendly activities in London. Don’t forget to check out the Horniman Museum, the Museum of Childhood, and the V&A Museum of Childhood for even more immersive experiences. With endless opportunities for exploration and discovery, London’s museums are a must-visit for families looking for an educational and entertaining day out.
Outdoor Adventures with Kids in London
London’s green spaces provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventures with your children. Whether you want to explore fascinating wildlife or relax in the park, London has a spot for every family. Here are some family-friendly outdoor activities to try on your next visit to London:
Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens
Take a stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens and experience the wonders of nature. Home to over 50,000 different plants, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is perfect for a relaxing family day out. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Palm House, where you’ll find some of the world’s oldest and rarest plants.
Explore Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of London’s most famous parks, offering a wide range of activities for families. Take a boat ride on the Serpentine, hire a bicycle, or explore the Diana Memorial Playground, which includes a giant pirate ship and teepees. There’s also a large field perfect for picnics and sports.
| Park Name | Location | Facilities |
|---|---|---|
| Regent’s Park | Regent’s Park, NW1 4NR | Boating lake, Open-Air Theatre, London Zoo |
| Battersea Park | Albert Bridge Road, SW11 4NJ | Zoo, boating lake, adventure playground, sports facilities |
| Greenwich Park | Greenwich, SE10 8QY | Astronomy centre, deer park, play park, gardens |
Discover Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath is a vast open space in North London, offering stunning views of the city. Explore the wildlife and woodland areas, take a dip in one of the ponds, or climb to the top of Parliament Hill for panoramic views of London.
Go on a cycling adventure
Experience London on two wheels with a family-friendly cycling adventure. There are several parks and cycle routes suitable for all ages and abilities, including the Thames Path and the Lee Valley Regional Park. You can even rent a bike from one of the many hire locations across the city.
These are just a few of the many family-friendly outdoor activities available in London. Plan your trip carefully and make the most of London’s green spaces.
Exploring London’s Unique Kid-Friendly Neighborhoods
London is a city of diverse and distinct neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character. Exploring these areas with your children can be a fun and exciting way to experience the city. Here are some kid-friendly neighborhoods to add to your itinerary:
Covent Garden
Covent Garden is a bustling neighborhood filled with street performers, restaurants and shops. It’s a great place to take your kids for a walk and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the famous London Transport Museum, where kids can learn about the history of London’s transportation system through interactive exhibits.
Southbank
Southbank is a cultural hub with plenty of activities and attractions for children. Take a walk along the River Thames and enjoy the street performers and artists along the way. Visit the Southbank Centre, which hosts various events and shows suitable for all ages. Kids will also love the interactive exhibits at the Sea Life London Aquarium.
Camden
Camden is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood with a unique atmosphere. Take your kids to see the colorful street art and browse through the vintage markets. Visit the ZSL London Zoo which is home to over 750 different species and 19,000 individual animals, or take a boat ride along the Regent’s Canal for a unique perspective of the neighborhood.
These are just a few of the many kid-friendly neighborhoods in London waiting to be explored. Plan your trip carefully and make sure to include these areas in your itinerary for a memorable family vacation.
Enjoying Family-Friendly Shows and Performances in London
If you are looking for entertainment that caters to the whole family, London’s theater scene won’t disappoint. From musicals to puppet shows, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
One popular option for families is the West End musicals, featuring productions like “The Lion King” and “Matilda.” These shows are not only popular with kids, but adults also find them entertaining and engaging.
If you are looking for something more interactive for your children, you can also consider the numerous puppet shows in London. These shows often have interactive elements that keep kids engaged and encourage participation.
“The puppet shows are really great for kids. My children loved the interactive elements and the chance to get involved in the show.”
Some theaters in London also offer shows specifically tailored to children. For example, the Polka Theatre in Wimbledon has a range of shows for children of different ages.
If you are looking for a unique and educational experience, you can also check out shows that are part of London’s museums and galleries. For example, the Natural History Museum in South Kensington hosts interactive shows about dinosaurs and wildlife.
Whatever show you choose, be sure to book in advance, especially during peak seasons. This will ensure you get the best seats and avoid disappointment on the day.
Exploring London’s Exciting Theme Parks and Amusement Centers
If you’re looking for family-friendly activities in London that will get your adrenaline pumping, you won’t want to miss the city’s exciting theme parks and amusement centers.
One of the best family activities in London is visiting Thorpe Park, where you can experience thrilling rides like Stealth, Colossus, and Nemesis Inferno. The park also has designated areas for children, including Angry Birds Land and the Ranger’s Clubhouse.
For a more educational experience, check out LEGOLAND Windsor, where your little ones can explore more than 55 interactive rides, shows, and attractions made out of Lego bricks.
If you’re looking for indoor activities, head to NAMCO Funscape or The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience London. NAMCO Funscape has everything from bowling and arcade games to laser tag and bumper cars, while The Crystal Maze offers a fun and interactive challenge based on the hit 90s TV show.
Lastly, don’t miss out on Kew Gardens’ Treetop Walkway. This innovative attraction allows you to walk through the trees and experience breathtaking views of London from above.
Comparison of London’s Theme Parks and Amusement Centers
| Attraction | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Thorpe Park | Surrey | Stealth, Colossus, and Nemesis Inferno rides; designated areas for children |
| LEGOLAND Windsor | Windsor | Interactive rides and attractions made of Lego bricks |
| NAMCO Funscape | London | Bowling, arcade games, bumper cars, and laser tag |
| The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience London | London | Interactive challenge based on the TV show |
| Kew Gardens’ Treetop Walkway | Richmond | Walk through the trees and experience breathtaking views of London from above |
Conclusion
Now that you have explored the best things to do in London with kids, you can plan a trip that is both fun and educational. Remember to choose activities that suit your children’s interests and ages, and take advantage of the diverse range of attractions and experiences that London has to offer.
Tips for Traveling with Kids in London
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when traveling with children in London:
- Plan your itinerary carefully to avoid overloading your children with too many activities in one day.
- Choose a family-friendly accommodation that is central and convenient for exploring the city.
- Use public transportation as it is both cost-effective and efficient.
- Bring snacks, water, and other essentials to keep your children energized and hydrated during your outings.
- Be flexible and patient with your children, and take breaks as needed to prevent fatigue and boredom.
With these tips in mind, you and your family can have a memorable trip to London filled with adventure and excitement.
