Travelling to London with kids doesn’t have to be difficult. Even if you’re just taking care of them and they’re not yours like me! Now that I’m in my 30s, my friends have kids and I need to become Auntie Alice. As a result, I’ve compiled a list of the best things to do during a London visit with kids.
Afraid the UK’s capital city is too big for a family trip? No way! There is plenty of fun for kids in London. Get ready to fill your London itinerary with kids in mind. Let’s do this.
This post is sponsored by Grand Royale London and Shaftesbury Hotels
10 Fun Activities for a London Visit With Kids
What are some fun things to do in London with kids? Whether you’re visiting London from just outside the city, or flying in from abroad, there are so many fun things to do in London.
From outdoor adventuring to more relaxing endeavors, I’ve selected my top choices of things to do in London with teens, toddlers, and all ages in between.
Spend hours enjoying Hyde Park
Hyde Park has enough green space for even the most energised toddler, and is a great child friendly London spot.
Check out the Kensington Gardens, feed some swans, and play at the Princess Diana Memorial Playground, a huge playground for multiple ages, complete with a pirate ship sand pit!
In the Winter you can catch Winter Wonderland, a huge winter market and festival complete with tons of kids attractions.
In the Summer, go paddle boating or eat some ice cream while you sunbathe.
Hyde Park has enough paths and attractions to keep your kids busy for many hours and the it’s free hooray. It’s truly one of the most amazing outdoor activities for kids in London.
Ride the London Eye
The London Eye is the fourth largest ferris wheel in the world, and one of the coolest things to do in London with children.
Don’t forget your camera as you soar over London’s biggest sights in a giant glass Ferris wheel. Is it a bird? Is it a plane? You have so much fun spotting what’s in the sky around you, whilst you’re also gawping at all of the London attractions below you.
After you step off, you can burn off some energy by heading over to the Jubilee Gardens playground, ending a perfect family day out in London.
Book your London Eye tickets here
Visit the Sea Life London Aquarium
The Sea Life London Aquarium is an amazing aquarium right across from Big Ben.
Even the grumpiest teen can’t resist a penguin, and young children will love watching gargantuan sharks swim all around them.
One of the best things to do indoors in London, the aquarium is a rainy day lifesaver!
While you’re on the South Bank, check out the seasonal food and fun markets by the Southbank centre and take a walk along the Thames. Not only will the kids be happy; you’ll be beaming with fun and happiness too!
Get your Sea Life London Aquarium tickets here
Visit the biggest toy stores in London
Although you may end up spending some dough, perusing the mind blowing toy stores London has to offer is one of the best free things to do in London with kids.
Marvel at the displays in Hamleys, the huge LEGO store, M&M’s World and the amazing luxury toy section at Harrods.
Most of these shops are near Leicester Square, where you can walk around and experience one of the cheeky fun free activities in London.
I have such fond memories of going to these stores with my Dad when he took me to London. It’s a pleasure to carry on that tradition as an adult.
Embrace magical Harry Potter Tours and Activities
For Harry Potter fans, there are so many London attractions for kids! If you’re anything like me, you’ll be rushing through the doors before your kids can catch up with you.
Afternoon Tea at The Potion Room
Try the Harry Potter themed magical afternoon tea at The Potion Room in Soho, where kiddos 8 years old and up can enjoy tantalizing sweet treats. Parents and minders, there’s some alcoholic “potions” for you if you so wish.
Find out more about The Potion Room here
Harry Potter London Walking Tour
Or how about taking a stroll on a walking tour of the Harry Potter filming locations and inspiration within London?
Get tickets for your Harry Potter Guided Walk here
Harry Potter Studios
This is the ultimate experience! Just outside of London you can visit The Warner Bros Studio, often referred to as the Harry Potter Studios, and learn about the Making of Harry Potter. Tickets sell out super quick for this, so make sure to book ahead. I’m still trying to find a time where I’m home long enough from travelling to get a slot in. I’ve heard nothing but amazing things and they pick you up from Central London!
Book your Harry Potter Studios Tour here
Pick your Harry Potter Tour
There’s plenty of options to suit your needs. Pick the best Harry Potter Tour for you.
Catch a kid friendly London West End show
The West End is bursting with kid friendly plays and musicals.
Check the box office for last minute deals, or book tickets online directly with the theatre ahead of time to try and get excellent prices.
Be a little bit naughty like Matilda, or get wild with The Lion King. The West End offers some of the best things to do in London with kids.
Visit the Natural History Museum
One of the best free things to do in London, the Natural History Museum in Kensington is exciting for kids and adults alike.
Get ready to see life-like dinosaurs and whale skeletons at one of the best London museums for families.
And located right by the Tube station, you can easily head back towards more central London for more family fun.
Located near Hyde Park and the Science Museum, the Natural History Museum is a great experience to add to your list of kids activities in West London.
Find out more about the Natural History Museum here
Spend a morning at The Science Museum
Don’t already have enough stuff to do with kids in London on your itinerary? Head over to the Science Museum in Kensington, a favourite of mine out of all of the free things for kids in London.
You’ll find exhibits and activities for all ages, even if you’re traversing London with toddlers. And yes, it’s free!
There’s an interactive level where younger kids can create and play with water based activities. There are plenty of London museums for kids, and this is one of the best!
If your kiddos are really digging this museum, I also recommend heading out to have a day at London Zoo.
Go shopping and exploring in Covent Garden
Covent Garden is located close to many West End theatres, so it’s a great place to hang before or after seeing a show.
It’s a great place for some London sightseeing for kids. It features shopping, markets, street performers and lots of food options.
The London Transport Museum is also located here for any plane, train, and automobile enthusiasts in your party.
Plan your trip to Covent Garden here
Brave the London Dungeon
If your kids are a bit older and love a good scare, head over to the London Dungeon. I’m personally not one for ghostly things, but I really do love it here and always have a good time.
Learn about the dark history of London while interacting with famous characters. There’s even a drop ride if you can stomach it.
The London dungeon is just one of the fun things for teenagers to do in London.
If your kids and teens love the dungeon, I highly recommend making plans to visit the Tower of London too.
Book your London Dungeon ticket here
What are the best family hotels in London?
I’ve rounded up three of the best kid friendly hotels near Hyde Park London for every price point. Here’s my top 3 options for budget, midrange and luxury travellers.
The London House Hotel is a gorgeous hotel ready to help you rest before outings in London. This is the perfect quiet budget hotel for a family to sleep off a long day of exploring kid friendly London.
Grand Royale London Hyde Park is an amazing historic hotel right by Hyde Park. Wake up, grab a free breakfast, and start exploring London, either via one of the two tube stops minutes from your front door, or by taking a stroll in the Kensington gardens, located in one of the best parks in London for kids.
The Bvgari Hotel is true luxury in an unmatched location. With an onsite spa and babysitting services, you can relax after a long day of family fun in London.
CENTRAL LONDON HOTEL OFFERS
Check out Central London Hotels Special Offers with Shaftesbury Hotels
Have fun on your London visit with kids!
There are so many amazing places to visit in London with kids, and if you’re only in town for one day, you might want to check out my 24 hours in London post.
So, are you ready for your London visit with kids? Make sure you pack an umbrella, and have a great time on your family trip to London town!
Related Reading
10 Wellness Activities in London to recharge your soul
How to spend 24 hours in London
Ultimate weekend in Brighton Guide
Comment below
What are your favourite places to take kids in London? Have you tried any of the above? Make sure to check out more of my England posts and discover even more travel tips and tricks on my Destinations page.
