One of the best issues to do in London with youngsters

Must Read


With so many issues to do in London with youngsters, the trickiest a part of a household metropolis break is understanding what to suit into your keep – after greater than 40 years visiting and residing within the capital, I’m proof constructive as my very own wishlist continues to be removed from ticked off.

Boy in a toy bearskin hat lying on a chalk picture of London landmarks - the best things to do in London with kids

So to begin you off, I’ve rounded-up among the greatest London points of interest to go to with youngsters, all excellent for a household day trip in London – together with the best-known London household points of interest and museums, yow will discover locations to get outdoors, concepts for teenagers who love animals, history-lovers, royal London and extra.

These embrace my very own unmissable highlights, plus concepts for should you’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 museums and artwork galleries with youngsters

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 really helpful throughout peak season, some with timed slots.

The most well-liked museums do get booked up quick throughout faculty holidays too so it’s value snapping up the early entry instances.

Try this put up for extra tips about visiting London’s greatest museums with youngsters

View of the whale skeleton hanging in the Hintze Hall of the Natural History Museum in London - one of the best things to do in London with kids

The Pure Historical past Museum

In case you see just one museum in London with youngsters (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 dwelling in the primary Hintze Corridor, to get replaced by Hope the Blue Whale.

The dinosaurs are solely the start although, with galleries on mammals and bug life, birds galore and marine creatures, plus geology and the well-known earthquake simulator.

There are additionally common exhibitions, for an additional cost – earlier occasions have included the Improbable Beasts exhibition, whereas Dippy’s temporary return is being adopted by a particular Titanosaur exhibition for 2023.

You possibly can prebook tickets to the Pure Historical past Museum, which is strongly suggested for peak durations, together with weekends and faculty holidays.

Advert showing an image of a printable scavenger hunt for the Natural History Museum in London and the words 'click here to buy your scavenger hunt for a visit to the Natural History Museum in London with kids, only 99p'

The Science Museum

One other of the most well-liked museums to go to in London with youngsters, and one other free choice, the Science Museum has some incredible shows to enchantment to the entire household.

The Backyard, geared toward youthful youngsters with its water play, tactile interactives and large blocks, and the Sample Pod are each ideally suited locations to begin.

Though the first-come first-served restrict on numbers isn’t now in operation, it’s value heading there early as it could possibly get crowded throughout vacation durations.

For extra issues to do in South Kensington with youngsters, take a look at my decide of the most effective

Old planes in one of the galleries at the London Science Museum - my ultimate guide to London's museums and tips for London museums with toddlers and kids

Elsewhere, you possibly can uncover the evolution of transport, from the earliest steam engine to the primary automobiles and area journey, in addition to galleries on communications, the Secret Lifetime of the Residence, and extra.

Older youngsters will love Wonderlab too – this does have a cost, and prebooking tickets (and a timed entry slot) is suggested – with the possibility to get arms on and experiment, in addition to seeing stay reveals. Or the brand new Technicians gallery is nice for teenagers.

You possibly can select your timed entry to the primary museum to coincide together with your Wonderlab go to, or to permit time to discover the primary collections first in addition to afterwards. Prebooking tickets to the museum can be really helpful, particularly at peak durations, together with weekends and faculty holidays.

Advert showing an image of a printable scavenger hunt for the Science Museum in London and the words 'click here to buy your scavenger hunt for a visit to the Science Museum in London with kids, only 99p'

The British Museum

The British Museum is considered one of my very own favourites, and with some nice Explorer trails to obtain and comply with, it’s one to get pleasure from with preschoolers up.

And there are merely 1000’s of things to see, together with the well-known mummies and the Rosetta Stone within the Historic Egypt part, together with items from historical Greece, Rome and Assyria, in addition to Africa, the Americas, and a moai from Rapa Nui (Easter Island).

However that’s actually solely the beginning of what there may be to find. Actually, there’s a lot that it’s greatest to not try the whole lot in a single go to.

You might tackle one of many Museum Missions, or search for the 12 key highlights to see with youngsters on the British Museum.

Or for varsity age youngsters, it’s simple 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 (youngsters 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 youngsters, take a look at my prime picks – plus this downloadable model

My daughter completes an activity trail at the Museum of London - my ultimate guide to London's museums and tips for London museums with toddlers and kids

Museum of London

Do you know that hippos as soon as lived the place Trafalgar Sq. now lies? The place higher to find extra about London than the museum devoted to it.

EDIT: The museum is now quickly closed till reopening in its new web site at Smithfield in 2026

The Museum of London follows the story of the town from prehistoric instances via to extra fashionable ers, from the Romans and Saxons to medieval London and the plague, the Nice Hearth and extra.

There are trails to comply with via the galleries, and you’ll pop inside a recreated Saxon home and stroll via a Victorian Road, plus there’s often probability to get arms on with among the gadgets.

It’s not solely historical historical past although: you possibly can see the 2012 Olympic cauldron, in addition to studying extra about London throughout the Second World Battle, and post-war Britain.

One other free museum, you possibly can even spot a chunk of Roman Wall as you are available in, as an added bonus.

Tickets can be found on the door however will also be prebooked, really helpful throughout faculty holidays, though this museum does are usually quieter than the British Museum and Kensington museums.

View of some of the vintage vehicles in the main hall of the London Transport Museum - a visit to check out the London Transport Museum Christmas events

London Transport Museum

For youthful youngsters who love buses and trains, the gathering on the London Transport Museum in Covent Backyard is sheer heaven – but it surely’s a fantastic choice with older youngsters too.

The museum follows the event of transport from sedan chairs and carriage, to river journey, trams proper via to the well-known pink double decker buses and tube trains.

In addition to with the ability to see altering designs and the event of the long-lasting tube map and indicators, youngsters can faux to drive a bus and get behind the controls of a tube prepare 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 might be prebooked (timed entry slots are now not required) 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 should you ebook with tiqets, utilizing code MUMMYTRAVELS6.

Try my overview of a go to to the London Transport Museum with youngsters

The Victoria and Albert Museum

The world’s largest museum of ornamental arts and design shouldn’t be probably 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 anticipate.

You possibly can discover collections spanning 5,000 years of artwork, in addition to cultures from all over the world, so there’s an limitless supply of inspiration – to not point out the momentary exhibitions, together with latest ones which featured Peter Rabbit, Winnie the Pooh and Alice in Wonderland, in addition to one specializing in Korea, excellent for Okay-Pop obsessed teenagers.

The museum additionally has varied interactive shows, household actions and youngsters’s exercise packs to find as nicely.

Tickets to the primary 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 most well-liked occasions.

Try what we considered a go to to the V&A with youngsters

Sign at the corner of the Victoria and Albert Museum - my ultimate guide to London's museums and tips for London museums with toddlers and kids

Museum of London Docklands

The sister web site of the Museum of London, the Museum of London Docklands sits in a transformed warehouse on West India Quay, as soon as the guts of London’s thriving docks trade, and it’s the proper place to find this aspect of the capital.

Like its sister web site, galleries are set out in chronological order, so guests journey from late Tudor instances via to the fashionable day, when London’s monetary district took over the world.

In addition to interactive sections, akin to strolling via a recreation of Sailortown and searching inside an air raid shelter, there are shows on slaver, in addition to on the Nice Stink and the Nice Dock Strike, so some harder-hitting subjects coated right here.

Nice for barely older youngsters, you’ll additionally discover momentary exhibitions, and intelligent touchscreen shows which don’t truly require you to the touch the display.

For youthful guests, the Mudlarks Kids’s gallery has additionally reopened after a facelift, with free tickets additionally now accessible for households with youngsters aged eight and underneath – there are classes all through the day, however you do have to prebook a time (accessible from the day earlier than).

Entry to the primary museum is free, with tickets accessible on the door. There are additionally common occasions throughout faculty holidays.

Learn extra about my go to to the Museum of London Docklands with youngsters right here.

Tate Trendy

With two branches of the Tate to select from in London, you may simply pack each into one go to – there’s even a boat which hyperlinks the 2 – however should you solely decide one gallery to go to, Tate Trendy is good with youngsters.

Set in a transformed energy station on London’s Bankside, it’s positively not your common artwork gallery – youngsters are inspired to speak (and there’s loads of area to run round within the turbine corridor) plus you’ll discover numerous simple 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 embrace massive names from the 20th century, akin to Matisse, together with works from the previous decade.

You now not have to prebook tickets and entry is free, apart from exhibitions (prebooking is really helpful for these).

For extra concepts of free issues to do in London with youngsters, take a look at my prime picks – plus this downloadable model

Visiting the Cutty Sark in Greenwich after a boat ride along the Thames

The Cutty Sark

In case your youngsters are on the lookout for a extra hands-on strategy to historical past, it’s laborious to beat a go to to the Cutty Sark in Greenwich – additionally ideally suited to mix with a boat journey alongside the Thames.

There are kids’s trails to comply with across the historic clipper ship and shows on its historical past, whereas you too can wander via the ship peeking inside cabins and discovering extra concerning the cargo she carried.

Better of all, you possibly can discover proper from the copper-bottomed hull to the deck (be careful for the carved monkey), in addition to making an attempt the assorted interactive shows together with an opportunity to attempt crusing a digital ship (more durable than it appears as we found on our go to!)

For extra concepts of issues to do in Greenwich, take a look at this put up – and should you’re visiting greater than one of many Royal Museums Greenwich, which additionally contains the free Nationwide Maritime Museum, Royal Observatory and Queen’s Home, you too can get a Royal Museums Greenwich cross – together with a reduction should you purchase from Tiqets utilizing the code MUMMYTRAVELS6

The Horniman Museum

With somewhat little bit of the whole lot, the Horniman Museum is especially enjoyable with youthful youngsters – ideally suited in case your toddlers really feel overwhelmed by the town too because it’s outdoors central London.

With galleries on completely different themes, it’s is nice for little consideration spans as you possibly can wander from the well-known overstuffed walrus in pure historical past to world music and tradition, to see butterflies and wander the grounds outdoors, the place you’ll discover extra animals.

It’s free to enter the primary museum so that you don’t have to prebook, though there’s a small cost for the butterfly home, aquarium and any momentary exhibitions – prebooking is really helpful for these as numbers/area are restricted.

Try our go to to the Horniman Museum..

The exterior of the National Gallery in London, seen from Trafalgar Square against a blue sky - my ultimate guide to London's museums and tips for London museums with toddlers and kids

With nicely over 2,000 works, you possibly can see among the biggest artwork on the earth on the Nationwide Gallery – and also you don’t have to have an in-depth grasp of artwork historical past to get pleasure from wanting on the collections.

For a simple introduction, attempt discovering the gallery’s 30 highlights, in addition to the brand new immersive app, The Keeper of Work geared toward households and youngsters.

For inventive youngsters, 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 best way, whereas there are additionally household occasions throughout faculty holidays and at weekends. Test right here for what’s arising.

Tickets to the Nationwide Gallery are free – prebooking is really helpful for the exhibitions.

Children who love artwork must also take a look at the Royal Academy of Arts – exhibitions are free for kids underneath 16

Museum of the Residence

Reopened in 2021 after an £18 million three-year facelift, the Museum Of The Residence (previously the Geffrye Museum) has virtually double the area of its former incarnation.

Tracing the whole lot from altering fashions and know-how at dwelling to the affect of faith, in addition to tackling homelessness, it’s an enticing means for teenagers to grasp altering society and completely different cultures via individuals’s homes.

And the interval rooms via time, at all times a customer favorite have remained too, together with numerous interactives, whether or not that’s taking part in on early video games consoles or making an attempt to squash digital bedbugs.

Free to go to, together with some beautiful little themed gardens, there’s no have to prebook.

Try my overview of the Museum of the Residence right here

1970s style West Indian family living room at the Museum of the Home in London, one of the series of period rooms

Imperial Battle Museum London

Based throughout the First World Battle, the galleries on the Imperial Battle Museum deal with the experiences of individuals affected by conflict, so when you’ll additionally get to see some very giant weapons, planes hanging from the ceiling and collections of medals, there’s extra emphasis on particular person tales.

A brand new gallery overlaying the Second World Battle was added in 2021, excellent for teenagers learning it in school, and the museum runs common household occasions throughout faculty holidays – a latest one was primarily based round spies and espionage, one other on conflict in video and pc video games.

There’s a separate exhibition on the Holocaust as nicely, though that is solely really helpful for kids aged 14+.

Tickets for IWM London can be found on the door – you’ll have to attend at busy instances so prebooking timed entry slots is really helpful.

Older youngsters will even get pleasure from visiting the Churchill Battle Rooms, the place you may get a glimpse what life would have been like in these secret corridors throughout the tense days and nights of the Second World Battle

HMS Belfast

As soon as a Royal Navy gentle cruiser, now a museum ship completely moored on the Thames, HMS Belfast is probably the most vital surviving Second World Battle Navy warship – current on the D-Day landings and within the Korean Battle.

Reopened after main renovations, you possibly can uncover what life would have been like on board for the crew who served aboard – and with 9 decks to discover, there’s loads to see aboard.

Interactive experiences vary from a sound set up inside a gun turret to an opportunity to see simply what it takes to feed the 950 males aboard (trace: meaning peeling a LOT of potatoes) and steering the ship.

There are additionally reminiscences from veterans who served on HMS Belfast, in addition to common household trails and actions throughout faculty holidays.

Prebooking tickets is really helpful.

View of HMS Belfast warship museum on the Thames with Tower Bridge just seen in the background - one of the best things to do in London with kids

RAF London

The Royal Air Pressure 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 possibly can see an entire string of plane from over time, in addition to shows of the whole lot from logbooks and hidden maps to survival rations, plus different automobiles.

Children can attempt on an RAF uniform or check their very own response instances, together with sensory areas to the touch the fashions and uncover some RAF smells and sounds, plus the possibility for the littlest ones to climb right into a miniature aircraft.

There’s additionally a fantastic playground with mini fashions of plane. Tickets to the museum are free however should be prebooked.

For extra concepts of free issues to do in London with youngsters, take a look at my prime picks – plus this downloadable model

The Nationwide Military Museum

With 5 galleries taking a look at the whole lot from life as a soldier to the affect the military has had on the world, the Nationwide Military Museum in Chelsea is a superb choices for teenagers who love historical past (or taking part in soliders).

There are sections on the English Civil Battle, in addition to later conflicts, plus artefacts linked to everybody from Napoleon to Lawrence of Arabia.

However probably the most common areas for youthful youngsters is the museum’s Play Base, geared toward youngsters aged one to eight, with a smooth play assault course, and play vans and cookhouses – restricted numbers and classes, so that is one it’s essential to prebook for.

Entry to the primary 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 really helpful at peak instances.

The Postal Museum

One of many latest museums to open 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 prepare to experience, there’s loads of interactive enjoyable for teenagers.

The shows cowl among the quirkier aspect of the historical past of the put up, from a lion on Salisbury Plain to cryptic Valentine playing cards, and among the rarest and Most worthy stamps round.

Prebooking is really helpful for the 45-minute classes at Sorted (it’s additionally barely cheaper than paying on the day), an immersive mini-town with probabilities to get constructing and little streets to inhabit.

Teenagers may 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 experience on Mail Rail throughout your first go to – there’s a reduction should you prebook. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays (besides some dates throughout faculty holidays).

For extra uncommon issues to do in London with youngsters, take a look at my decide of the most effective

A lion statue in London against a blue sky - one day in London with kids who love animals, my ideas for animal-loving kids if you've only got a short time to explore

Animal points of interest in London with youngsters

There’s loads in London for teenagers who love animals, from the most important zoos to little metropolis farms and aquariums.

London Zoo

The world’s oldest scientific zoo, London Zoo continues to be one of many metropolis’s largest points of interest – for teenagers and adults – greater than 170 years after it opened.

As soon as dwelling to the bear that impressed Winnie the Pooh, today, you possibly can see the whole lot 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 much 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 should you’re wanting time, it permits you to focus in your favourites.

There are keeper talks which happen all through the day, in addition to particular animal experiences – you may even assist feed the gorillas. In case you’re fortunate, you possibly can spot the keepers feeding the animals as you discover.

Maintain a watch out for normal particular household occasions, particularly throughout faculty holidays, too. Tickets should be prebooked.

For extra data on visiting London Zoo, click on right here, and take a look at a few of my different ideas from our earlier visits to London Zoo

Penguin stands by the edge of the pool at London zoo waiting for feeding time - my top tips for visiting London Zoo with kids

Battersea Park Kids’s Zoo

This little youngsters’s zoo is nice for youthful youngsters – much less overwhelming, much less far to stroll and loads of animals to please, particularly should you’re wanting time (a few hours is loads) or visiting London on a price range.

As a result of whereas London Zoo is a incredible day trip with youngsters, there’s no query that it’s a pricy one – and for youthful toddlers, they’re typically as excited by a rabbit as one thing uncommon and unique.

You gained’t discover greater creatures at Battersea Park Kids’s Zoo however there are monkeys and lemurs, wallabies, cattle, birds, reptiles and diverse small furry issues. There’s additionally an journey playground to entertain – in addition to loads of area within the park across the zoo.

Tickets don’t have to be prebooked – under-twos go free.

Check out my overview of a day at Battersea Park Kids’s Zoo with a child in addition to extra of London’s smaller zoos, together with somewhat free zoo in north London

Metropolis farms

In case you’re visiting London with youngsters who love animals, add one of many many metropolis farms to your listing, with a string of web sites dotted across the capital.

Freightliners Metropolis Farm (between Caledonian Street 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 MudchuteHackney 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 test straight for the most recent data.

Jellyfish against a purple background floating at Sea Life London Aquarium - one of the things to do in with kids London this summer

Sea Life London Aquarium

A stunning various to the town’s zoos for animal lovers, the Sea Life London Aquarium is a superb place to go to – one of many largest collections in Europe.

London’s aquarium homes over 500 species, 14 themed zones and greater than 2 million litres of water with some uncommon creatures to find, in addition to some favourites together with penguins and clownfish.

Set close to the London Eye it could possibly get busy at peak instances and on wet days, so it’s nicely value prebooking and there are often reductions should you purchase on-line prematurely.

For extra concepts on how to economize on days out in London with youngsters, take a look at my prime ideas

Historic points of interest in London

One of many issues I 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 areas of the Nice Hearth of London, in addition to exploring different components of London for teenagers who love historical past.

My daughter walks between concrete blocks with the words of the song London's Burning near Pudding Lane - a Great Fire of London walk with kids, visiting Great Fire of London locations

It’s also possible to uncover Roman London, together with components of the previous partitions and different outside websites, excellent for theming a stroll across the previous metropolis of Londinium.

Check out this put up for concepts of a few of the most effective landmarks to identify

The Tower of London

The Tower is considered one of my very own private favourites, and from the astonishing crown jewels to the well-known ravens and beefeaters, it’s a fantastic day trip with youngsters in London too.

You possibly can discover former royal flats, embellished as they might have been when kings lived there, and uncover the Tower’s grim historical past as a jail too, together with a memorial to 2 of Henry VIII’s executed queens.

Advert showing an image of a printable scavenger hunt for the Tower of London and the words 'click here to buy your scavenger hunt for a visit to the Tower of London with kids, only 99p'

It additionally homes a part of the Royal Armoury, plus you’ll discover shows on the Tower’s menagerie of animals, uncover stay performances throughout faculty holidays, and stroll the partitions.

Tickets might be purchased on the day, though prebooking is really helpful – there’s a reduction should you 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 – take a look at my expertise of watching the Ceremony of the Keys with youngsters.

There’s additionally a brand new immersive expertise close to the Tower themed across the Gunpowder Plot, the place you’ll be whisked again to 1605 to see should you can foil Man Fawkes…

A view of part of the Tower of London against a blue sky - my 12 days out in London with kids 2018

Hampton Courtroom Palace

This magical Tudor palace – constructed by Cardinal Wolsey and ‘acquired’ by Henry VIII – is a superb day trip with youngsters in London.

In addition to exploring inside, tracing the palace’s historical past from its Tudor days (don’t miss the sprawling kitchens) to Georgian instances, there are grounds and gardens to find too, together with the Maze – the UK’s oldest surviving hedge maze.

And put aside a few hours for the Magic Backyard playground too: a really enchanting set of play areas, together with sand play, climbing gear and faux hills.

Though it’s proper on the sting of London, there are quick trains working from Waterloo. Prebooking tickets is really helpful, with further prices for some particular household actions – there’s a reduction should you ebook through tiqets utilizing my code MUMMYTRAVELS6.

Try my overview of our most up-to-date go to to Hampton Courtroom Palace after lockdown in addition to extra concepts for day journeys from London with youngsters

Kensington Palace

Childhood dwelling of Queen Victoria, Kensington Palace was a favorite of George II and his courtroom, and has additionally been dwelling to Diana, Princess of Wales and Prince William and Harry.

With altering reveals, together with a brand new exhibition on royal vogue, you too can see shows from Queen Victoria’s early years, from her troublesome relations along with her mom to her first assembly with future husband Prince Albert, in addition to tracing her path from a princess no-one thought could be Queen to her coronation.

Elsewhere within the palace you possibly can nonetheless play Georgian playing video games, spot a throne, marvel on the grand staircase and picture the balls held right here – plus the seedier aspect of the royal courtroom with some horrible historical past positive to entertain youngsters.

Prebooking tickets is really helpful – and Kensington Gardens are on the doorstep to discover afterwards.

Try my overview of visiting Kensington Palace with youngsters after lockdown

Gilded gates and front view of Buckingham Palace - the best of the many royal places in London to see with kids

Buckingham Palace

In case you’re fascinated by the royal household, the place else must you 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 possibility to go indoors for just a few months of the yr.

Check out the flagpole to search out out whether or not the King is staying there throughout your go to: if it’s the Royal Commonplace, meaning Charles III is in residence, but when it’s the Union Flag, he’s presently residing elsewhere. In case you’re visiting on a weekday, you’ll have extra luck discovering him in than a weekend.

There are numerous completely different opening instances on the public areas of Buckingham Palace, with some particular guided excursions of the State Rooms throughout Might and June, earlier than its normal essential opening dates from July to September.

The Palace gardens are additionally open throughout the summer season months, whereas the Queen’s Gallery can be open year-round (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays) – prebook tickets right here.

And you too can see among the well-known carriages (and horses within the stables) on the Royal Mews.

For extra concepts of the most effective royal locations in London with youngsters, take a look at my picks from palaces to historic websites

Altering of the guard

One other custom that dates again centuries – this one to the late fifteenth century – the Altering of the guard is considered one of London’s hottest free points of interest 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 Previous Guard arms over to the New Guard in a ceremony which takes round an hour.

It’s also possible to see the guards beginning to type up by the palace from 10.30am and the brand new guard arriving from Wellington Barracks. The Altering of the Guard usually takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, each day throughout June and July, however could also be cancelled for main occasions in addition to notably dangerous climate – test it’s going forward earlier than you queue.

Count on to get there early in order for you a great spot – being too near the palace isn’t at all times ideally suited, as you don’t essentially have the most effective view via the gates. In case you’re visiting London with youthful youngsters, get a style at Wellington Barracks on Birdcage Stroll beforehand, the place you possibly can spot them forming up and listen to the music at round 10.15.

For a much less busy choice, you too can see the Queen’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 free issues to do in London with youngsters, take a look at my prime picks – plus this downloadable model

A view across the Thames to the Elizabeth Tower containing Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster - my 22 things to do on the Thames, London, with kids or without

Take heed to Massive Ben

One of many icons of London, the Elizabeth Tower – which homes Massive Ben – has been underneath scaffolding for the previous couple of years throughout a protracted restoration mission, however has been unveiled in all its glory as soon as once more.

The 96m tall clocktower dates again to 1859 and with London visitors (and many guests climbing the steps inside as a part of the Massive Ben excursions), the renovations had been the primary for round 40 years.

Now unveiled as soon as once more, the clock face is seen and excursions are anticipated to begin once more as soon as all of the conservation work is completed.

The 13.7 tonne Nice Bell, as Massive Ben is formally identified, was silenced throughout the facelift, apart from particular events, however the well-known ‘booooong’ is ringing once more, hanging the hour and sounding the quarter chimes.

Advert showing an image of a printable scavenger hunt for London's iconic sights and the words 'click here to buy your scavenger hunt for finding some of the iconic sights of London with kids, only 99p'

Homes of Parliament

In case you’ve at all times fancied seeing contained in the Homes of Parliament there are numerous excursions you possibly can take to discover inside.

There are multimedia excursions, should you want to go at your individual tempo – together with an audio information for teenagers – or you possibly can take one of many guided excursions, to find extra concerning the historical past and traditions of Parliament and its dwelling.

In addition to the 90-minute guided tour accessible for all guests, there’s additionally a 75-minute free choice for UK residents.

UK residents may get a free ticket to see a debate, both within the Home of Commons or the Home of Lords – value doing should you fancy taking in one of many extra common debates. You’ll want ID, there’s airport-style safety and it’s a great plan to decorate moderately neatly too.

Contact your MP prematurely, in any other case you possibly can probability your luck on the day and queue to get in to see the Home in session – recess very often coincides with faculty holidays should you’re visiting with youngsters although.

View of the side entrance to Westminster Abbey with its rose window - one of the best places to visit in London with kids who love history

Westminster Abbey

Unmissable in case your youngsters are occupied with British historical past, over 3,300 individuals have been buried or commemorated at Westminster Abbey, together with 16 separate British monarchs (or 17, should you imagine the bones regarded as the Princes within the Tower embrace these of Edward V) plus lots of their consorts.

As you discover inside, you possibly can see the tombs of Henry V and all of the Tudors besides Henry VIII, alongside early kings akin to 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 13th century, and Edward I additionally lie right here, whereas Mary I and Elizabeth I share a tomb. The final King of England to be buried right here is George II.

And each king or queen of England has been topped right here, besides two – Edward V, who was deposed and presumed murdered earlier than his coronation, and Edward VIII who abdicated earlier than his may happen.

Prebooking tickets is really helpful – you too can purchase tickets with free cancellation right here.

Nationwide Belief

You have to enterprise out of central London to discover the capital’s Nationwide Belief websites, however there are some nice historic homes to discover, in addition to beautiful grounds to get outside in London with youngsters.

  • Osterley Park
    The ‘palace of palaces’, as the home in west London was described, has reopened and you possibly can discover the attractive gardens in addition to the ‘lengthy stroll’ via the woods. Prebook tickets right here. Try our day trip at Osterley Park after lockdown
  • Ham Home
    This Nationwide Belief property in south west London sits on the banks of the river Thames and has its personal beautiful gardens and parkland to discover – there are sometimes nice household trails at school holidays, plus crafts within the servants’ quarters. Prebook tickets right here Get a style of Ham Home with youngsters on this put up.
A view of the rear of Osterley House against a blue sky - visiting Osterley Park after lockdown

English Heritage

London can be dwelling to a number of superb English Heritage properties, though once more, you’ll must enterprise somewhat means out of the centre.

  • Kenwood Home
    One of many closest historic homes to central London, set in Hampstead, you’ll additionally discover nice Christmas trails at Kenwood. Prebook tickets right here.
  • Eltham Palace
    Uncover the fantastic Artwork Deco inside of the mansion, together with the medieval nice corridor, gardens, playground and cafe. Prebook tickets right here
  • Chiswick Home
    Spot velvet wallpaper, Previous Masters and different luxurious touches at this Palladian villa in west London. The gardens are free for the general public to enter, or prebook tickets right here to see inside the home.
  • Marble Hill Home
    The ‘nation retreat’ of the Countess of Suffolk in Twickenham, south west London, reopened in Might 2022 after a significant restoration, bringing the Georgian villa to life and retelling the dramatic story of her life. Free to enter, prebook tickets right here.

There’s presently 15% off membership for English Heritage utilizing code EHAFF2023

A view along the terrace to the rear of Gunnersbury House, the white building against a blue sky with the start of the lawns - my review of a free day out in London, visiting Gunnersbury Park Museum with kids

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 become the Gunnersbury Park Museum, you possibly can study extra about its historical past in addition to exploring the previous kitchens, with interactive enjoyable for teenagers and a small museum on the world.

Entry is free, though the museum is presently closed on Mondays, whereas the kitchens are closed on Mondays-Wednesdays. It’s also possible to 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 youngsters, take a look at my prime picks – plus this downloadable model

London excursions and different points of interest

In case you’re wanting to economize on a vacation in London with youngsters (and who isn’t), take a look at the London Go and London Explorer Go – each embrace barely completely different points of interest and offers, in addition to lasting for various durations, so the most effective 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 the way to lower your expenses on days out in London with youngsters, take a look at my prime ideas

Thames river cruises

I like seeing London from the river, and it’s my favorite technique to journey all the way down to Greenwich on a sunny day too, with the river cruise and sightseeing firms working once more as regular.

There’s an enormous alternative of boat excursions in London with youngsters too, together with the Horrible Thames cruise which was launched in 2021 by Horrible Histories, together with sightseeing cruises, hop-on hop-off choices, speedboats and even an opportunity to get behind the wheel your self.

For sightseeing, take a look at Metropolis Cruises which runs varied excursions alongside the river, or should you’re not bothered about commentary, Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is usually a less expensive choice, and a great way to get from A to B.

Click on right here to take a look at the whole set of boat journeys in London with youngsters

Ship in a bottle outside the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich - there's a choice of river cruises in London, including ones to transport you along the Thames to Greenwich

London open-top buses

London has varied open-top bus sightseeing excursions to select from, with completely different choices relying which routes and instances you need.

Tootbus (beforehand known as The Authentic Tour) has a particular 45-minute London Children tour in addition to the London Specific two-hour tour, plus a hop-on hop-off choice.

Or the hop-on hop-off route from London Massive Bus Excursions additionally takes you previous most key landmarks, with some reductions on-line should you purchase prematurely.

In case you fancy creating your individual bus tour for much less – and driving on a pink doubledecker as a bonus – Route 15 takes you previous St Paul’s Cathedral to the Tower of London, the 11 passes Westminster Abbey and Horseguards parade, whereas the quantity 9 goes from Trafalgar Sq. to the South Kensington Museums.

For extra of the greatest bus excursions in London with youngsters, take a look at my decide of the most effective, together with choices for teenagers and toddlers

Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is well probably the most well-known of London’s bridges, and in addition to getting a view of its well-known blue and white paint, you possibly can head inside to find its historical past.

There’s an opportunity to face on the glass walkway and look down, head into the engine rooms, and there are common household actions for teenagers too.

Try the Tower Bridge Path for Little Explorers and household path app. Purchase tickets to Tower Bridge through the Tiqets web site and there’s a reduction utilizing my code MUMMYTRAVELS6.

In case you’d like an opportunity of seeing the bridge’s spectacular opening as an even bigger boat comes via, test the carry instances.

Try the Tower Bridge Cat collection of tales too, considered one of my picks for the greatest youngsters books about London

View of Tower Bridge seen through an arch at the Tower of London - the Tower Bridge exhibition is one of the options for families in London this summer

The Sky Backyard

London’s highest public backyard is free to go to, though you do have to ebook prematurely to take in the views – unsurprisingly tickets to the Sky Backyard get snapped up, particularly for weekends and also you’ll want ID, so plan forward.

Not removed from Monument station (check out the well-known Monument itself on the best way, one other free factor to do in London with youngsters should you don’t climb it), the backyard sits on the prime of the skyscraper Londoners know because the Walkie Talkie constructing – should you’re combating instructions, it’s not tough 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 possibly can keep longer should you plan go to one of many locations to eat and drink, though these are (clearly) not free.

It’s also possible to take a look at 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 youngsters

The London Eye

One of many iconic sights of the town, the London Eye can be a fantastic place to get a chicken’s eye view of the capital.

Turning excessive above the South Financial institution and looking throughout the Thames, it’s greatest for good climate – unsurprisingly – however chilly sunny winter days can provide some gorgeously clear views.

Or time your ‘flight’ for sundown and watch the lights twinkling on throughout London.

Prebooking is strongly suggested, with reductions should you purchase your tickets on-line prematurely. There are additionally fast-track tickets accessible to skip the queues, which is good with youngsters, particularly in peak season.

It’s also possible to 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 youngsters, take a look at my prime ideas

A view towards the London Eye against a blue sky, with the river Thames and the old County Hall building seen in the foreground - if you're looking for things to do in London with toddlers and preschoolers, fast track tickets are definitely a good idea

Madame Tussaud’s

From celebrities to superheroes to the royal household, you possibly can whereas away hours gazing on the waxworks on show at Madame Tussauds – and posing alongside fairly just a few.

And there are continuously updates and new figures being added: 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, vogue and movie.

Prebooked tickets are suggested – should you purchase direct, you possibly can reschedule at no cost plus there are on-line reductions for reserving prematurely.

It’s also possible to purchase mixture tickets with the London Dungeon and London aquarium, in addition to tickets with free cancellation from Get Your Information.

For extra uncommon points of interest in London with youngsters, control the pop-up occasions going down in addition to new momentary experiences like Twist Museum of Illusions

The London Dungeon

One for older and braver youngsters, a visit to the London Dungeon is assured to scare you into forgetting the climate, with stay actors whisking you thru 1,000 actually alarming years of historical past, plus loads of particular results and rides to get your coronary heart racing even quicker.

One in all a string of areas across the UK, like the opposite Dungeons, every location has areas themed to swimsuit its personal historical past too. The London Dungeon, for instance, brings you head to head with the Nice Hearth and Sweeney Todd.

Prebooking is strongly suggested, with on-line reductions should you purchase your tickets prematurely: greatest for teenagers and braver tweens. It’s also possible to purchase mixture tickets to different Merlin points of interest.

For extra issues to do on the South Financial institution with youngsters, take a look at my ideas

Looking down over some barrels to the buildings beyond the Golden Hinde

Golden Hinde

On the banks of the Thames, head again to Tudor instances as you discover the duplicate of the Golden Hinde, the ship which Francis Drake sailed all over the world.

Tickets might be booked on-line or there are walk-up choices, in addition to some very enjoyable household experiences – to this point, we’ve loved a very memorable sleepover in addition to making an attempt out the model new escape room with youngsters, Escape from the Golden Hinde.

Go Ape excessive ropes

Head up into the bushes to get your coronary heart racing at one of many London Go Ape areas.

There are a number of completely different programs to select from, however probably the most central is Go Ape Battersea Park, together with a treetop journey course should you’re visiting with youthful youngsters (minimal peak 1m).

Head additional out and there are extra programs at Alexandra Palace with some nice views to distract you: one of many two treetop journey programs at Ally Pally is for any age (1m+), the opposite with a bit extra problem for age 6+ and 1.2m tall.

Or at Cockfosters has a course that’s good for older youngsters, though that is solely appropriate for ages 10+ and 1.4m tall.

Silhouette of the obstacle course against the sky - my Go Ape Battersea Park review, a day out at the city course

Shrek’s Journey

Shrek followers will love the possibility 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 components to search out Shrek and make it dwelling safely, in addition to 10 themed stay reveals and a 4D flying bus to finish Shrek’s Journey. Higher for main faculty aged youngsters who’ll respect the enjoyable than for toddlers and preschoolers.

With the choice to reschedule at no cost, you too can get mixed tickets to different Merlin points of interest, together with the close by aquarium or London Eye. Tickets with free cancellation are additionally accessible from Get Your Information.

Discover Harry Potter in London

Harry Potter followers can discover a string of web sites from the books and flicks throughout the capital, together with an opportunity to see the designs which introduced the wizarding world to life, in addition to areas which pop up within the movies.

Begin at King’s Cross: Platform 9 ¾ was truly filmed between platforms 4 and 5, however there’s an opportunity to pose with a baggage trolley disappearing via the wall on the station concourse.

Then uncover among the areas used within the Harry Potter films, together with Leadenhall Market and the Millennium Bridge, and enter the Wizarding World on the Home of MinaLima – graphic design duo Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima created the whole lot from the Marauder’s Map to packets of Bertie Bott’s Each Flavour Beans.

For extra Harry Potter areas in London, take a look at this put up, or take a look at one of many Harry Potter excursions, together with this child-friendly Harry Potter strolling tour.

And whereas the Harry Potter studio tour isn’t in central London, it’s solely a brief journey from Euston and has rapidly turn into one of many prime London points of interest with youngsters.

Be ready to ebook nicely prematurely to discover the Harry Potter Studios, particularly for Hogwarts within the Snow at Christmas and permit numerous time – there’s an enormous quantity of element for followers to get pleasure from.

For extra tips about visiting the Warner Bros studios in Leavesden in addition to concepts of the place to remain close to Harry Potter World, take a look at this put up.

A view across the Thames to St Paul's Cathedral and the Millennium bridge - one of my top 31 days out for Harry Potter fans

Catch a present

The West Finish is rightfully well-known for its theatre so should you’re visiting London with older youngsters, take a look at the offers on the TKTS sales space in Leicester Sq. should you haven’t booked prematurely.

There’s loads for youthful guests to get pleasure from as nicely, with nice child-friendly reveals and a few wonderful youngsters’s theatres. Attempt puppet and marionette reveals on the Little Angel Theatre in Islington, whereas the Unicorn Theatre close to London Bridge is geared toward mini theatregoers aged six months plus.

You’ll discover performances in central London as nicely: on the Theatre Royal Haymarket, you possibly can see reveals just like the Tiger Who Got here To Tea, in addition to Frozen the Musical on the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, to call just some.

For extra methods to discover low cost theatre tickets in London with youngsters, take a look at my ideas

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 faculty holidays.

It’s also possible to take a tour behind the scenes, together with tales of the unique sixteenth century playhouse and London in Shakespeare’s Day, the way it survived plague and political oppression, together with how the Globe was recreated, all packed into 50 minutes.

Advert showing an image of a printable scavenger hunt for London's iconic sights and the words 'click here to buy your scavenger hunt for finding some of the iconic sights of London with kids, only 99p'

Get outside in London

London could also be one of many world’s largest cities however there’s nonetheless loads of inexperienced area – the eight royal parks alone cowl a whopping 5,000 acres, not forgetting the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew and loads of locations to play.

Get a free listing of the highest 20 locations to get outside in London with youngsters should you join the London with Children publication right here

Go to the parks

London’s parks are excellent should you’re trying to escape the crowds, or for some cool inexperienced area on sunny days, and every has its personal character – to not point out bathrooms and cafes, and often at the least one playground.

In central London alone, you possibly can 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 dwelling to the Diana Memorial Playground (working a one-in one-out rule at busy instances), the most effective playgrounds within the metropolis, together with the Peter Pan statue and the fountains within the north-east nook.

Two pelicans swimming in the lake at St James's Park in London - one of the unusual things to do in London with kids in the royal parks

The well-known pelicans at St James’s Park are one of many largest points of interest there – and a fantastic 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, typically to be discovered strutting close to the Japanese backyard. There’s a fantastic journey playground right here for teenagers too.

Pitzhanger Manor has a 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 dwelling to playgrounds, a wildlife backyard and paddling pool – and it’s excellent for households as you’re solely allowed in should you’re visiting Coram’s Fields with youngsters.

In north London, you may get a sneak peek of some of the animals at the zoo from the trail at Regent’s Park – the zoo itself can be open – or mix your stroll with a stroll alongside the Regent’s Canal.

From right here, you may additionally head to Primrose Hill, or additional north is the open area of Hampstead Heath and Golders Hill park with its personal little free zoo.

In case you’re in south London, you possibly can get pleasure from some extra river views from Battersea Park as discover tranquillity on the Peace Pagoda. The points of interest throughout the park embrace Battersea Park Kids’s Zoo (check out my overview of the little zoo right here), and Putt within the Park mini golf, plus the Go Ape excessive ropes course.

Additional out, in addition to recognizing deer at Richmond Park, you may climb King Henry’s Mound and take in the views of the town or see the vivid flowers of the Isabella Plantation.

My daughter looks down from the hill by the Royal Observatory in Greenwich across the park to the Royal Naval college and skyscrapers on the London skyline - visiting the parks is one of my top things to do in London with kids this summer

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 day trip in London with youngsters, you possibly can 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 youngsters take a look at this put up – 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 the town.

The ship in the sand at the heart of the Diana Memorial playground in Kensington Gardens - one of the great free things to do in London with kids

Paddington Recreation Floor – aka Paddington Rec, close to Maida Vale tube – is without doubt one of the most spectacular, with its pastel colored playhouses, steamliner, prepare, tunnel, musical devices and forest play space, all designed to encourage inventive play.

On the riverside, Bishop’s Park has water play and an city seashore amongst its playgrounds, plus a rose backyard and sculpture backyard. You 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 should you’re taking a stroll alongside the South Financial institution.

And in east London, Victoria Park has each a playground and a splash park, or there’s the Tumbling Bay playground with sand, wobbly bridges, swimming pools and extra to play in on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

For extra of the greatest playgrounds in London, take a look at this put up

Splash within the fountains

One attraction that’s just for the summer season, there’s nothing like cooling off from the warmth of the town in one of many pop-up fountains.

Simply behind King’s Cross, the fountains at Granary Sq. are made up of 1,080 choreographed jets – every individually managed – which squirt in patterns for teenagers to splash in.

Or on the South Financial institution, the Showing Rooms on the Southbank Centre is a enjoyable various (youngsters have to put on a prime right here). Designed as an interactive sculpture, the jets of water create ‘rooms’ as they shoot into the air – earlier than vanishing once more simply as rapidly.

Additional alongside the river, you’ll discover the Extra London fountains close to Tower Bridge, and one other set within the courtyard of Somerset Home on the alternative financial institution.

It goes with out saying to take spare garments!

For extra concepts of issues to do in London with toddlers and preschoolers, take a look at this put up

View along the Thames with one of the bridges and St Paul's visible

Stroll by the river

There are miles and miles of Thames path to discover in addition to the parks – considered one of my favorite components of the town, the river is the true coronary heart of London for me.

There are many London points of interest by the Thames if you wish to mix one thing else together with your stroll.

In any other case, head to the South Financial institution, the place there’s at all times one thing to see – take a look at the programme right here, from the Christmas market in winter to pop-up occasions and festivals with avenue meals, stay music, markets, rides and video games.

One in all my favorite stretches of river, you’ll discover quirky artwork and iconic buildings for a few of London’s greatest Instagram views too.

In case you’re trying to get onto the river itself, take a look at the most effective boat journeys in London with youngsters

Discover the canals

For one more waterfront wander, head to London’s canals. The stretch of the Regent’s Canal round Little Venice is without doubt one of the greatest identified however you too can 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, or 2pm on Saturdays, you possibly can see the Fan Bridge being lifted at Paddington Basin as nicely.

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 should you don’t fancy following your complete route, which takes round 2 1/2 hours to stroll (probably extra should you’re doing it with youngsters!)

The Sackler Crossing bridge over the lake at Kew Gardens after reopening post-lockdown

Go to Kew Gardens

I’ve visited Kew Gardens numerous instances with my daughter, ranging from a picnic shortly after she was born to repeated visits throughout latest lockdowns – and there’s at all times one thing new to find.

Try my ideas for exploring Kew Gardens with youngsters

You’ll discover common household occasions going down, from faculty vacation trails (akin to this one themed round the Beano) to the Christmas at Kew gentle path, in addition to the incredible Kids’s Backyard playground.

However even aside from 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 possibly can stroll contained in the Hive and head as much as the treetop cover, enterprise into the glass homes, and discover out what it feels wish to be a badger – to not point out flowers galore all year long.

Tickets can be found a number of months prematurely – click on right here to prebook – and time slots to the Kids’s Backyard will also be prebooked, which is a good suggestion throughout peak season, weekends and faculty holidays particularly.

It’s also possible to go to Kew Palace as a part of entry to the gardens, whereas Queen Charlotte’s cottage is open throughout the summer season months.

My daughter walks across the wild walk ropes course at the London Wetland Centre in Barnes, one of the best places to get outdoors in London with kids

WWT London Wetland Centre

At this inexperienced oasis not removed from Hammersmith, you possibly can spot short-clawed otters and uncover extra concerning the wetlands, in addition to making an attempt household actions throughout holidays.

There are additionally two play areas – an indoor play room, which is nice on colder, drizzly days, in addition to the Wild Stroll and fabulous wildlife-themed outside play space, with tunnels, water play and the same old playground enjoyable.

Look out for particular trails, together with large Lego statues, in addition to serving to youngsters to study extra about nature and conservation as you stroll across the wetlands themselves.

Tickets to the London Wetland Centre in Barnes might be prebooked, though it’s not important.

Examine a few of our earlier visits to whet your urge for food right here – assembly the otters on the London Wetlands and our day trip pond dipping.

See Walthamstow Wetlands

Round quarter-hour from central London, the Walthamstow Wetlands are the latest 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.

It is usually strolling distance from a number of tube stations, together with Tottenham Hale and Blackhorse Street on the Victoria Line, which is round 10 minutes from the primary entrance on Ferry Lane/Forest Street.

For extra free locations to go to in London with youngsters take a look at this put up – 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 too can 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.

My daughter walks through Chelsea Physic Garden - one of my things to do in London with kids this summer

Chelsea Physic Backyard

The fascinating mixture of crops on the Chelsea Physic Backyard make it a beautiful place to whereas away an hour or so with youngsters.

One thing of a hidden gem beside the Thames, there are sometimes youngsters’s trails in addition to the glasshouses to discover.

Stroll-up tickets can be found, or you possibly can 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 most recent shows.

At Christmas, large baubles hold from the glass roof, when you may additionally discover something from Lego creations to Disney-inspired enjoyable to occasional leisure on the large screens.

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 observe, though should you benefit from the present, it’s solely honest to drop one thing within the hat on the finish.

Whilst you’re there, take a stroll over to close by Neal’s Yard for its eye-catchingly brilliant buildings.

In case you’re on the lookout for the most effective locations to remain close to Covent Backyard with youngsters, take a look at my decide of household lodges in London

Spot avenue artwork

There’s loads of avenue artwork to identify across the capital – one thing which modifications usually, so it’s doable to search out new additions even in your doorstep.

The largest concentrations are round East London, particularly Shoreditch and Hackney. Wander alongside Brick Lane and the roads close by, or should you’re near Liverpool Road and Spitalfields, there’s avenue artwork to be discovered right here too.

The Leake Road tunnel close to Waterloo modifications continuously however you’re assured to find one thing eye-catching right here as nicely.

In any other case, the South Financial institution and Camden have loads to identify, whereas Walthamstow is making a reputation for its avenue artwork too – comply with the Wooden Road Partitions maps.

For extra issues to do in Camden with youngsters, take a look at my prime picks

And you may nonetheless spot among the 40 artistic endeavors created by greater than 15 artists throughout the London Mural Pageant again in 2020.

Street art figures on a yellow background at London's South Bank - discovering street art in London with kids

Go on a treasure hunt

I’m a giant fan of treasure-hunt model trails to discover cities with youngsters – much more thrilling than merely wandering, it retains them engaged and entertained, and also you get to do numerous sightseeing alongside the best way.

For youthful youngsters, I’ve created a easy scavenger hunt to identify a few of London’s iconic sights, to allow them to tick them off as they go.

Or the maps from Treasure Map Trails are excellent with youngsters: brightly colored, with a unusual theme, plus the problem of recognizing numerous sudden 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 mapsCovent Backyard, Leicester Sq. & Chinatown + Trafalgar Sq..

There are extra choices to boost a stroll in London with youngsters from Treasure Trails too. We adopted the Greenwich Treasure Path with associates final summer season 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 search out one near you – as a result of even after a lifetime visiting and residing in London, there’s at all times one thing new to find.

Advert showing an image of a printable scavenger hunt for London's iconic sights and the words 'click here to buy your scavenger hunt for finding some of the iconic sights of London with kids, only 99p'

Uncover the Secret Tales of London

With so many centuries of historical past, you may spend your complete life discovering new corners and new tales as you discover.

Happily, the Ordnance Survey Secret Tales app has made it simpler by turning a few of these quirky tales into themed excursions, together with less-visited corners of the town, in addition to routes previous the long-lasting landmarks.

Designed with youngsters in thoughts, they’re written to entertain in addition to inform (full disclosure: I’ve written a number of for OS) with subjects on the whole lot from Stuart kings and queens to the highwaymen of Hyde Park, the Romans, ghosts, authors and extra.

The app is free to obtain for ioS and Android – tour costs differ, together with some free choices.

Banner image including two shots of a phone, and the words Secret Stories: Discover mini adventures - the Ordnance Survey Secret Stories app is a fun way to explore London with kids

London points of interest that are nonetheless closed

The next London points of interest are nonetheless closed or have but to announce their opening date after lockdown.

The gallery is closed till 2023, as a part of ongoing renovations.

The Museum of Childhood (Younger V&A)

Additionally set to reopen in 2023, the previous Museum of Childhood is being remodeled into the Younger V&A.

For concepts of the place to remain in London with youngsters, take a look at my decide of the most effective household pleasant lodges and flats

Getting round London with youngsters

Realistically, it’s tough to get round London with out utilizing public transport in any respect – should you do plan to drive, the congestion cost has been expanded over the previous couple of years, with the fee rising to £15.

Some automobiles must pay further throughout the Extremely Low Emission Zone, or ULEZ), which can be increasing in 2023

And that’s all earlier than you pay for parking as nicely… So public transport is by far the simplest technique to get across the centre, together with the brand new Elizabeth line, tube, bus, DLR and overground (to not point out boats and bus excursions).

A London Underground sign with the words underground on - my 12 days out in London with kids 2018

Children underneath 11 journey free on the tube, with diminished costs for kids aged 11-15 as nicely – for extra tips about utilizing the London Underground with youngsters, click on right here, together with particulars of getting diminished fares.

Accompanied youngsters aged underneath 15 journey free on buses as nicely. Click on right here for the most recent data on public transport in London, together with security measures, akin to particulars of carrying masks and when the busiest stations and instances to keep away from are, accessibility and every other modifications.

When you’re within the centre, I’d at all times suggest strolling round London the place you possibly can as there’s a lot to see that you just’ll miss underground.

For extra information and concepts, join the London with Children publication or be part of the London with youngsters Fb group which I assist to run

*First printed summer season 2020, final up to date 2023*

PIN FOR LATER: THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN LONDON WITH KIDS

The best things to do in London with kids, from museums to animal attractions including London Zoo, ways to get outdoors and other family attractions and tours in London

Disclosure: This put up incorporates affiliate hyperlinks – any purchases you make are unaffected however I could obtain a small fee.

Important picture/Science Museum/Buckingham Palace/Homes of Parliament/HMS Belfast/lion statue/Millennium Bridge/Diana memorial playground/underground signal courtesy of Depositphotos, all others copyright MummyTravels

LIKED THIS? SIGN UP FOR MY EMAIL NEWSLETTER



LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Latest News

4-Day La Paz, Mexico Itinerary for Out of doors Lovers – Bearfoot Idea

La Paz, Mexico appears like an off-the-beaten-track vacation spot, however outside fans have been coming to this beautiful...

More Articles Like This