Holidays are brilliant! It’s so good to get a break from the nine-to-five and get to spend some time with the kids that’s not just about getting dinner ready and making sure they’ve done their homework.
Choosing the right destination can be tricky, but it’s no surprise that London is consistently named one of the top 10 cities to visit around the world. What makes it truly special for families is that its world-class status isn’t just for adults; it translates into access to incredible, interactive museums, vast royal parks perfect for running around, and a variety of entertainment that caters to toddlers, teens, and parents alike.
In fact, the capital often serves as the perfect launchpad for a bigger adventure, making it a true highlight among UK holiday destinations for families. The confidence and experience you’ll gain navigating London’s transport and attractions will set you up brilliantly for exploring the rest of the country.
But the family adventure begins right here. London is packed with things that the kids will love to do, and this guide is here to show you what they’ll enjoy most. Best of all, loads of the stuff here is free!
Table of Contents
Discover the most fun things to do in London with kids
1. Enjoy a picnic in Hyde Park
First up, here’s a classic. If the weather’s good, head to the verdant expanses of Hyde Park and have a picnic. Just grab a blanket, pack a delicious spread, maybe a ball or a pack of cards and you’ve got all you need.
This iconic park has it all – tranquil lakes, breathtaking gardens. In summer, you can even swim in the Serpentine Lido. We guarantee that that’s just the ticket on those occasional hot London summer days.
The South Carriage Drive Playground is a great place for the really little ones to let off some steam. While they’re sliding down the slide or climbing up the climbing frame, you can take a moment to sit down and relax and enjoy the fresh air.
2. Rub shoulders with celebs at Madame Tussauds
Madame Tussauds is another London classic. Here you can see incredibly lifelike wax models of famous people from the worlds of music, film, sports and more. You’ll have a blast as you get to get up close to everyone from Beyonce to Tom Cruise.
There’s a section for Marvel heroes, like Spiderman and the Hulk, the royal family and even one for infamous serial killers such as Jack the Ripper. This indoor option is great if the weather can turn on a sixpence, so knowing the best things to do in London when it rains can save the day. Madame Tussauds is a brilliant example of a place where you can happily spend several hours, completely forgetting about the drizzle outside.
To make a full day of it without trekking across town, the London Pass: Eye, Tussauds, SEA LIFE + Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is a fantastic option. It’s a savvy way to bundle several must-do experiences into one easy package, saving you time and hassle.
3. Stroll through marvellous Borough Market
“I’m hungry!” if you’ve spent day out and about with kids, you’ll definitely have heard that particular cry. Well, if you visit Borough Market, then it’s a problem that can be quickly solved. In fact, after a few hours in Borough Market, chances are that none of you will be hungry again for a long time!
This food lover’s paradise might not seem like an obvious destination for kids, but we promise you that they’ll love its magical mix of colours, aromas and flavours. They’ll love looking at all the wonderful things to eat and choosing just what it is that takes their fancy. The last time we went my kids loved the onion bhajis and the food in the Italian deli.
There are places where you can sit and eat the food you buy and enjoy the market’s unique atmosphere while you savour the tasty treats you’ve bought.
4. Take a ride on The London Eye
The views from the London Eye have to be some of the very best in the city. When you’re up high, you can see right over the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the Thames. It’s a magical feeling circling over the city in one of the Eye’s futuristic pods. This is definitely one that the kids will enjoy. We’re pretty sure you will too. In just over twenty years, a ride on the London Eye has become one of the city’s essential experiences for tourists and locals alike.
5. Hop on a City Sightseeing open-top bus
Though we say it ourselves, our Hop-on Hop-off London Bus is one of the very best ways to see London, especially with children. It solves the problem of tired little legs and lets you see the sights without navigating the Tube. Our route is designed to make sure you see as much of what the city has to offer as possible. You’ll find that all the other things to do here are just a stone’s throw from one of our stops. Of course, the Tube can be convenient, but all you get to see is tunnels and platforms as you move from one place to another.
For a ‘surf and turf’ adventure that kids adore, you can combine the view from the road with a fresh perspective from the river. The London River Cruise + Hop-On Hop-Of Bus is a brilliant way to break up the day and see the city from all angles, which is an adventure in itself.
Crossing Tower Bridge on an open-top bus is a thrill, and it puts you right next to another unmissable piece of history. For families who love tales of knights, royals, and ravens, the magnificent Tower of London is a must. A comprehensive pass like the Tower of London Tickets + Thames River Cruise + Bus Tour can turn a simple sightseeing trip into a fantastic historical deep-dive.
6. Be a pirate at the Diana Memorial Playground
Situated in the heart of Kensington Gardens, the Diana Memorial Playground is a child’s play paradise. Inspired by Peter Pan, the playground really is a magical wonderland. The centrepiece is a giant pirate ship, but there’s also a sensory trail, a beach, teepees, and sculptures to help their imaginations run riot. It’s all set against a lush green backdrop of trees and plants. The best part? Entry is free. We know your kids will love it. One million annual visitors can’t be wrong!
7. See the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
Something the kids are sure to love is the Changing of the Guard. This normally takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. The action starts at 10:45 and lasts for about 45 minutes. Get there early to get the best view as this is one of London’s most popular free attractions.
This ceremony has been taking place in one form or another for more than 500 years! That means you really are seeing history in action. The bearskin hats the soldiers have been part of the ceremony since the reign of Queen Victoria. They’re made from the fur of Canadian black bears. The hatmakers who make them buy between 50 and 100 bearskins a year to keep the Household Guard supplied with hats.
While the ceremony outside is a brilliant show, for a truly memorable experience, you can also plan a visit inside Buckingham Palace during its summer opening. Seeing the scale and grandeur of the State Rooms firsthand is something the whole family will remember. To round off a royal-themed day, you could treat everyone to a quintessential British tradition. The Tea at Rubens + Hop-On Hop-Off bus + Thames Cruise offers an elegant afternoon tea experience right next to the palace, making everyone feel like royalty for the day.
8. Get lost in the magic of the British Museum
The British Museum is a home to a true treasure trove of amazing artefacts from around the world. Centuries of the British Empire meant that many incredible items from around the world made their way to London from the British colonies and other parts of the world.
One of the museums many highlights is the Rosetta Stone, which was the key to unlocking our understanding of Egyptian hieroglyphics. You’ll be able to impress the kids with your knowledge of this ancient stone. Just make sure you bone up on it first!
They’ll also love the two-headed Aztec serpent and the impressively tall Haida House Pole. Take one (or more) of the museum’s fun and entertaining explorer trails as they’re a brilliant way to keep the little ones interested.
Although this is one of the free things to do in London, it’s still best to book in advance to make sure you get in at the time you want to go.
9. See the sensational street performers in Covent Garden
There’ve been street performers in Covent Garden since at least the 17th century. It’s a grand London tradition. The street performers here have to audition to earn the right to entertain the public. That means that they’re all brilliant at what they do. There are musicians, magicians, circus performers and more. You could happily spend a whole morning or afternoon here enjoying the show.
All the entertainment is free of charge, but when the hat goes round at the end of the show, you can give the performers something to show your appreciation. Kids always seem to enjoy that part of the show more than anything else. One thing that kids are definitely good at is spending your hard-earned cash!
The vibrant atmosphere makes Covent Garden a hub for entertainment year-round, and it’s always packed with things to do near Piccadilly Circus. The area buzzes for big city-wide events, from Chinese New Year to celebrations for St Patrick’s day around the world. For older kids and teens who are fans, it’s also a key stop on the trail of Taylor Swift London Locations, adding a modern pop-culture quest to your visit.
10. Soak up the Art at Tate Modern
Tate Modern is a world-class museum that houses an incredible collection of contemporary art. With thought-provoking installations and inspiring masterpieces, your kids’ creativity will be sparked as they explore this incredible space. Housed inside a former power station, Tate Modern is worth visiting just to experience the incredible space that is the old turbine hall.
Entrance to the main gallery is free, while you have to pay for the temporary exhibitions. Tate Modern is situated on the South Bank, which, as we’ll see, is a great place to enjoy a very London walk with the kids.
11. See the animals at London Zoo
Set in Regent’s Park, London Zoo is one of the world’s oldest and most famous zoos. In fact, it is the oldest scientific zoo. Don’t let its age fool you though, this is no old-fashioned relic of the past. The animals are in comfortable enclosures and there are species from all over the world.
It’s a great place to learn about the world’s wildlife and what we can do to protect it. There’s even a special area for kids, Animal Adventure, where they can run around, have a clamber and a play. Whilst they’re doing that you can grab a snack or a coffee at the Peckish Parrot café.
When you’ve finished in the zoo, you can explore Regent’s Park. From the magical Queen Mary’s Rose Garden to the enchanting boating lake, there’s something for everyone in this natural wonderland.
12. Hide your eyes at London Dungeon!
London Dungeon has been giving kids the willies for nearly 50 years! It’s a terrifying experience that will have the kids squeezing your hands and clinging on to your legs. It really does put the fun in fear.
It’s a journey through London’s dark and gruesome history. With interactive shows and rides, you’ll come face to face with some of London’s most notorious characters, from Jack the Ripper to Sweeney Todd. If you’re looking for a scare, this spooky attraction is just the ticket!
13. Have fun learning at the Natural History and Science Museums
It’s very easy to make a day of it in these two museums, which share a home. The Natural History Museum is full of wonders from the natural world, like giant dinosaur skeletons. The Science Museum is, of course, dedicated to science. We particularly like the interactive area in the basement, where the kids will be able to have hours of fun.
These two museums are an essential part of the London itinerary for any family visiting London. Educational and entertaining, they’re every parent’s dream and there’s plenty that’ll keep you informed and entertained too.
London is a brilliant destination for kids
So that’s our list of things to do in London with the kids. There’s so much to see and do in the city. So, gather your little explorers, embrace the magic, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
London is truly a treasure trove of family-friendly fun, just waiting for to be discovered! But your adventure doesn’t have to end there. A family trip can be tailored to the season or even expanded beyond the capital.
If your visit falls during the festive period, the city becomes even more magical. Exploring the best Christmas markets in the world and taking a Christmas Lights Bus Tour in London are unforgettable experiences. For families planning a grand tour of the UK, the capital is a wonderful starting point. For those looking to continue the adventure, you can even find options like the Edinburgh + London Hop-on Hop- off Tour Package.
So, gather your little explorers, embrace the magic, and create memories that will last a lifetime. London is truly a treasure trove of family-friendly fun, just waiting to be discovered!
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Frequently Asked Questions
The best parks in London for kids include Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, and St James’s Park. Hyde Park offers a range of activities for kids, including boating on the lake, visiting the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground, and enjoying the Serpentine Lido swimming area. Kensington Gardens is home to the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground, inspired by the stories of Peter Pan, where kids can explore the pirate ship, sandpit, and sensory trail. St James’s Park also has a newly refurbished playground and is a fantastic place for families to enjoy a sunny day. These parks provide a mix of outdoor spaces, playgrounds, and recreational activities that are perfect for kids to have fun and enjoy the beauty of London’s green spaces.
Certainly! Here are a few kid-friendly restaurants in London that offer great dining experiences for the whole family:
- Rainforest Cafe: This unique restaurant in Piccadilly Circus is like stepping into a tropical rainforest with animatronic animals, waterfalls, and special effects. The kids will love the immersive atmosphere while enjoying a variety of kids’ meals.
- Giraffe: With multiple locations across the city, Giraffe offers a kid-friendly menu with dishes from different cuisines around the world. The vibrant and casual atmosphere makes it a popular choice for families.
- Inamo: This interactive Asian fusion restaurant in Covent Garden features table-top projections where kids can play games and even order their food using digital menus. It’s a fun and engaging dining experience for the entire family.
Remember to check with the restaurants for their current opening hours. Enjoy your dining experience in London!
We include a Thames river cruise with one of our hop-on hop-off combination tickets. It’s a brilliant way to see the city with the kids. You can also get an Uber Boat along the Thames.