With so many issues to do in London with children, the trickiest a part of a household metropolis break is understanding what to suit into your keep – after greater than 40 years visiting and dwelling within the capital, I’m proof optimistic as my very own wishlist remains to be removed from ticked off.
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So to start out you off, I’ve rounded-up a few of the greatest London points of interest to go to with children, all good for a household time out 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 embody my very own unmissable highlights, plus concepts for in the event 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 children
London is a sheer treasure trove of fabulous museums, a lot of them free to go to – prebooked tickets might not be required year-round however are often beneficial throughout peak season, some with timed slots.
The preferred museums do get booked up quick throughout college holidays too so it’s value snapping up the early entry occasions.
Try this submit for extra recommendations on visiting London’s greatest museums with children
The Pure Historical past Museum
For those who see just one museum in London with children (and actually, one isn’t sufficient!), make it the great 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 residence in the principle 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 transient return is being adopted by a particular Titanosaur exhibition for 2023.
You’ll be able to prebook tickets to the Pure Historical past Museum, which is strongly suggested for peak intervals, together with weekends and college holidays.
The Science Museum
One other of the most well-liked museums to go to in London with children, and one other free possibility, the Science Museum has some implausible shows to attraction to the entire household.
The Backyard, geared toward youthful children with its water play, tactile interactives and big blocks, and the Sample Pod are each perfect locations to start out.
Though the first-come first-served restrict on numbers isn’t now in operation, it’s value heading there early as it might get crowded throughout vacation intervals.
For extra issues to do in South Kensington with children, try my choose of one of the best
Elsewhere, you may uncover the evolution of transport, from the earliest steam engine to the primary vehicles and area journey, in addition to galleries on communications, the Secret Lifetime of the House, and extra.
Older children will love Wonderlab too – this does have a cost, and prebooking tickets (and a timed entry slot) is suggested – with the prospect to get arms on and experiment, in addition to seeing stay reveals. Or the brand new Technicians gallery is nice for teenagers.
You’ll be able to select your timed entry to the principle museum to coincide along with your Wonderlab go to, or to permit time to discover the principle collections first in addition to afterwards. Prebooking tickets to the museum can also be beneficial, particularly at peak intervals, together with weekends and college holidays.
The British Museum
The British Museum is considered one of my very own favourites, and with some nice Explorer trails to obtain and observe, it’s one to take pleasure in 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 all the things in a single go to.
You may tackle one of many Museum Missions, or search for the 12 key highlights to see with children on the British Museum.
Or for college age children, it’s simple to theme a go to round a specific civilisation or tradition too, plus there are concepts for what to do if in case you have one hour on the museum, or three hours on the museum.
Tickets are free (children 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 children, try my high picks – plus this downloadable model
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 website at Smithfield in 2026
The Museum of London follows the story of the town from prehistoric occasions by way of to extra trendy ers, from the Romans and Saxons to medieval London and the plague, the Nice Fireplace and extra.
There are trails to observe by way of the galleries, and you’ll pop inside a recreated Saxon home and stroll by way of a Victorian Avenue, plus there’s often probability to get arms on with a few of the gadgets.
It’s not solely historical historical past although: you may see the 2012 Olympic cauldron, in addition to studying extra about London through the Second World Conflict, and post-war Britain.
One other free museum, you may even spot a chunk of Roman Wall as you are available in, as an added bonus.
Tickets can be found on the door however can be prebooked, beneficial throughout college holidays, though this museum does are typically quieter than the British Museum and Kensington museums.
London Transport Museum
For youthful children who love buses and trains, the gathering on the London Transport Museum in Covent Backyard is sheer heaven – however it’s an incredible possibility with older children too.
The museum follows the event of transport from sedan chairs and carriage, to river journey, trams proper by way of to the well-known purple double decker buses and tube trains.
In addition to having the ability to see altering designs and the event of the long-lasting tube map and indicators, children can faux to drive a bus and get behind the controls of a tube practice simulator.
There’s additionally a particular play space for teenagers aged below seven, plus common household and craft actions, and particular exhibitions together with the Hidden London space.
Tickets will be prebooked (timed entry slots are now not required) or purchased on arrival, and the acquisition entitles you to an annual go. There’s at the moment a reduction on tickets to the London Transport Museum in the event you ebook with tiqets, utilizing code MUMMYTRAVELS6.
Try my overview of a go to to the London Transport Museum with children
The Victoria and Albert Museum
The world’s largest museum of ornamental arts and design isn’t 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 may count on.
You’ll be able to 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 short-term exhibitions, together with latest ones which featured Peter Rabbit, Winnie the Pooh and Alice in Wonderland, in addition to one specializing in Korea, good for Ok-Pop obsessed teenagers.
The museum additionally has numerous interactive shows, household actions and youngsters’s exercise packs to find as nicely.
Tickets to the principle museum don’t must 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 children
Museum of London Docklands
The sister website of the Museum of London, the Museum of London Docklands sits in a transformed warehouse on West India Quay, as soon as the center of London’s thriving docks trade, and it’s the proper place to find this aspect of the capital.
Like its sister website, galleries are set out in chronological order, so guests journey from late Tudor occasions by way of to the fashionable day, when London’s monetary district took over the realm.
In addition to interactive sections, comparable to strolling by way of 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 children, you’ll additionally discover short-term exhibitions, and intelligent touchscreen shows which don’t truly require you to the touch the display.
For youthful guests, the Mudlarks Youngsters’s gallery has additionally reopened after a facelift, with free tickets additionally now out there for households with children aged eight and below – there are classes all through the day, however you do must prebook a time (out there from the day earlier than).
Entry to the principle museum is free, with tickets out there on the door. There are additionally common occasions throughout college holidays.
Learn extra about my go to to the Museum of London Docklands with children right here.
Tate Fashionable
With two branches of the Tate to select from in London, you could possibly simply pack each into one go to – there’s even a boat which hyperlinks the 2 – however in the event you solely choose one gallery to go to, Tate Fashionable is good with children.
Set in a transformed energy station on London’s Bankside, it’s undoubtedly not your common artwork gallery – children are inspired to speak (and there’s loads of area to run round within the turbine corridor) plus you’ll discover a number of simple methods even for youthful ones to take pleasure in what they see together with instructed video games.
You’ll additionally discover instructed routes for households to observe by way of the collections, which embody massive names from the 20th century, comparable to Matisse, together with works from the previous decade.
You now not must prebook tickets and entry is free, apart from exhibitions (prebooking is beneficial for these).
For extra concepts of free issues to do in London with children, try my high picks – plus this downloadable model
The Cutty Sark
In case your children are searching for a extra hands-on strategy to historical past, it’s onerous to beat a go to to the Cutty Sark in Greenwich – additionally perfect to mix with a boat journey alongside the Thames.
There are kids’s trails to observe across the historic clipper ship and shows on its historical past, whereas you may also wander by way of the ship peeking inside cabins and discovering extra in regards to the cargo she carried.
Better of all, you may discover proper from the copper-bottomed hull to the deck (be careful for the carved monkey), in addition to attempting the assorted interactive shows together with an opportunity to attempt crusing a digital ship (more durable than it seems as we found on our go to!)
For extra concepts of issues to do in Greenwich, try this submit – and in the event you’re visiting greater than one of many Royal Museums Greenwich, which additionally consists of the free Nationwide Maritime Museum, Royal Observatory and Queen’s Home, you may also get a Royal Museums Greenwich go – together with a reduction in the event you purchase from Tiqets utilizing the code MUMMYTRAVELS6
The Horniman Museum
With a bit little bit of all the things, the Horniman Museum is especially enjoyable with youthful children – perfect in case your toddlers really feel overwhelmed by the town too because it’s outdoors central London.
With galleries on totally different themes, it’s is sweet for little consideration spans as you may 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 principle museum so that you don’t must prebook, though there’s a small cost for the butterfly home, aquarium and any short-term exhibitions – prebooking is beneficial for these as numbers/area are restricted.
Try our go to to the Horniman Museum..
The Nationwide Gallery
With nicely over 2,000 works, you may see a few of the best artwork on the planet on the Nationwide Gallery – and also you don’t must have an in-depth grasp of artwork historical past to take pleasure in trying on the collections.
For a straightforward 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 children, 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 way in which, whereas there are additionally household occasions throughout college holidays and at weekends. Examine right here for what’s arising.
Tickets to the Nationwide Gallery are free – prebooking is beneficial for the exhibitions.
Youngsters who love artwork also needs to try the Royal Academy of Arts – exhibitions are free for youngsters below 16
Museum of the House
Reopened in 2021 after an £18 million three-year facelift, the Museum Of The House (previously the Geffrye Museum) has virtually double the area of its former incarnation.
Tracing all the things from altering fashions and expertise at residence to the impression of faith, in addition to tackling homelessness, it’s an attractive manner for teenagers to know altering society and totally different cultures by way of folks’s homes.
And the interval rooms by way of time, at all times a customer favorite have remained too, together with a number of interactives, whether or not that’s enjoying on early video games consoles or attempting to squash digital bedbugs.
Free to go to, together with some beautiful little themed gardens, there’s no must prebook.
Try my overview of the Museum of the House right here
Imperial Conflict Museum London
Based through the First World Conflict, the galleries on the Imperial Conflict Museum concentrate on the experiences of individuals affected by struggle, so when you’ll additionally get to see some very massive 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 Conflict was added in 2021, good for teenagers finding out it in school, and the museum runs common household occasions throughout college holidays – a latest one was primarily based round spies and espionage, one other on struggle in video and laptop video games.
There’s a separate exhibition on the Holocaust as nicely, though that is solely beneficial for youngsters aged 14+.
Tickets for IWM London can be found on the door – you could have to attend at busy occasions so prebooking timed entry slots is beneficial.
Older children can even take pleasure in visiting the Churchill Conflict Rooms, the place you will get a glimpse what life would have been like in these secret corridors through the tense days and nights of the Second World Conflict
HMS Belfast
As soon as a Royal Navy mild cruiser, now a museum ship completely moored on the Thames, HMS Belfast is probably the most vital surviving Second World Conflict Navy warship – current on the D-Day landings and within the Korean Conflict.
Reopened after main renovations, you may 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 college holidays.
Prebooking tickets is beneficial.
RAF London
The Royal Air Power 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 may see a complete string of plane from through the years, in addition to shows of all the things from logbooks and hidden maps to survival rations, plus different automobiles.
Youngsters can attempt on an RAF uniform or take a look at their very own response occasions, together with sensory areas to the touch the fashions and uncover some RAF smells and sounds, plus the prospect for the littlest ones to climb right into a miniature airplane.
There’s additionally an incredible 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 children, try my high picks – plus this downloadable model
The Nationwide Military Museum
With 5 galleries taking a look at all the things from life as a soldier to the impression the military has had on the world, the Nationwide Military Museum in Chelsea is a good choices for teenagers who love historical past (or enjoying soliders).
There are sections on the English Civil Conflict, in addition to later conflicts, plus artefacts linked to everybody from Napoleon to Lawrence of Arabia.
However some of the well-liked areas for youthful children is the museum’s Play Base, geared toward children aged one to eight, with a mushy play assault course, and play vans and cookhouses – restricted numbers and classes, so that is one you could prebook for.
Entry to the principle museum is free and doesn’t must be prebooked. There’s a cost for Play Base, and timed hourly classes so whereas you will get tickets on the day, prebooking is beneficial at peak occasions.
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 undoubtedly not only for stamp collectors.
With a particular play space, Sorted, for age eight and below, plus the Mail Rail practice to trip, there’s loads of interactive enjoyable for teenagers.
The shows cowl a few of the quirkier aspect of the historical past of the submit, from a lion on Salisbury Plain to cryptic Valentine playing cards, and a few of the rarest and most dear stamps round.
Prebooking is beneficial 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 can even go on the particular tunnel walks, whereas there are classes for neurodiverse households too.
Tickets give limitless entry for a 12 months, though they’re solely legitimate for one trip on Mail Rail throughout your first go to – there’s a reduction in the event you prebook. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays (besides some dates throughout college holidays).
For extra uncommon issues to do in London with children, try my choose of one of the best
Animal points of interest in London with children
There’s loads in London for teenagers who love animals, from the largest zoos to little metropolis farms and aquariums.
London Zoo
The world’s oldest scientific zoo, London Zoo remains to be one of many metropolis’s greatest points of interest – for teenagers and adults – greater than 170 years after it opened.
As soon as residence to the bear that impressed Winnie the Pooh, nowadays, you may see all the things from lions and tigers to having the ability to stroll with lemurs, enterprise into rainforest circumstances, see animals from the African savannah and Australian Outback, and plenty extra.
There are three colour-coded routes across the zoo, pink, blue and orange – all totally different lengths, they begin and finish in roughly the identical place so you are able to do them in any order you need, and in the event you’re in need of time, it enables you to focus in your favourites.
There are keeper talks which happen all through the day, in addition to particular animal experiences – you could possibly even assist feed the gorillas. For those who’re fortunate, you may spot the keepers feeding the animals as you discover.
Hold a watch out for normal particular household occasions, particularly throughout college 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
Battersea Park Youngsters’s Zoo
This little kids’s zoo is nice for youthful children – much less overwhelming, much less far to stroll and loads of animals to thrill, particularly in the event you’re in need of time (a few hours is loads) or visiting London on a finances.
As a result of whereas London Zoo is a implausible time out with children, 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 larger creatures at Battersea Park Youngsters’s Zoo however there are monkeys and lemurs, wallabies, livestock, birds, reptiles and various 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 must be prebooked – under-twos go free.
Check out my overview of a day at Battersea Park Youngsters’s Zoo with a child in addition to extra of London’s smaller zoos, together with a bit free zoo in north London
Metropolis farms
For those who’re visiting London with children 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 Mudchute. Hackney Metropolis Farm has some smaller fluffy inhabitants together with rabbits and guinea pigs in addition to bigger creatures too.
A number of the farms have restricted opening hours/days, so at all times verify immediately for the newest data.
Sea Life London Aquarium
A stunning various to the town’s zoos for animal lovers, the Sea Life London Aquarium is a good place to go to – one of many greatest 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 might get busy at peak occasions and on wet days, so it’s nicely value prebooking and there are often reductions in the event you purchase on-line upfront.
For extra concepts on how to save cash on days out in London with children, try my high 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 enables you to uncover round two thousand years of historical past – my daughter and I’ve retraced a few of the places of the Nice Fireplace of London, in addition to exploring different components of London for teenagers who love historical past.
You may as well uncover Roman London, together with components of the previous partitions and different out of doors websites, good for theming a stroll across the previous metropolis of Londinium.
Check out this submit for concepts of a few of one of the best 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 an incredible time out with children in London too.
You’ll be able to discover former royal flats, adorned as they’d 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.
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 college holidays, and stroll the partitions.
Tickets will be purchased on the day, though prebooking is beneficial – there’s a reduction in the event 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 – try my expertise of watching the Ceremony of the Keys with children.
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 in the event you can foil Man Fawkes…
Hampton Courtroom Palace
This magical Tudor palace – constructed by Cardinal Wolsey and ‘acquired’ by Henry VIII – is a wonderful time out with children 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 occasions, 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 very enchanting set of play areas, together with sand play, climbing gear and pretend hills.
Though it’s proper on the sting of London, there are quick trains operating from Waterloo. Prebooking tickets is beneficial, with extra prices for some particular household actions – there’s a reduction in the event 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 children
Kensington Palace
Childhood residence of Queen Victoria, Kensington Palace was a favorite of George II and his court docket, and has additionally been residence to Diana, Princess of Wales and Prince William and Harry.
With altering displays, together with a brand new exhibition on royal trend, you may also see shows from Queen Victoria’s early years, from her troublesome relations together 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 may 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 court docket with some horrible historical past positive to entertain children.
Prebooking tickets is beneficial – and Kensington Gardens are on the doorstep to discover afterwards.
Try my overview of visiting Kensington Palace with children after lockdown
Buckingham Palace
For those who’re fascinated by the royal household, the place else must you begin than the monarch’s personal official residence? You will get a glimpse of the outside of Buckingham Palace year-round, in addition to the prospect to go indoors for a number of months of the 12 months.
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 at the moment residing elsewhere. For those who’re visiting on a weekday, you’ll have extra luck discovering him in than a weekend.
There are numerous totally different opening occasions on the public areas of Buckingham Palace, with some particular guided excursions of the State Rooms throughout Might and June, earlier than its traditional foremost opening dates from July to September.
The Palace gardens are additionally open through the summer time months, whereas the Queen’s Gallery can also be open year-round (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays) – prebook tickets right here.
And you may also see a few of the well-known carriages (and horses within the stables) on the Royal Mews.
For extra concepts of one of the best royal locations in London with children, try 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 navy 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.
You may as well see the guards beginning to kind 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 – verify it’s going forward earlier than you queue.
Count on to get there early if you would like a great place – being too near the palace isn’t at all times perfect, as you don’t essentially have one of the best view by way of the gates. For those who’re visiting London with youthful children, get a style at Wellington Barracks on Birdcage Stroll beforehand, the place you may spot them forming up and listen to the music at round 10.15.
For a much less busy possibility, you may also 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 children, try my high picks – plus this downloadable model
Hearken to Large Ben
One of many icons of London, the Elizabeth Tower – which homes Large Ben – has been below scaffolding for the previous couple of years throughout an extended restoration challenge, 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 Large 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 start out once more as soon as all of the conservation work is completed.
The 13.7 tonne Nice Bell, as Large Ben is formally identified, was silenced through the facelift, apart from particular events, however the well-known ‘booooong’ is ringing once more, placing the hour and sounding the quarter chimes.
Homes of Parliament
For those who’ve at all times fancied seeing contained in the Homes of Parliament there are numerous excursions you may take to discover inside.
There are multimedia excursions, in the event you favor to go at your personal tempo – together with an audio information for teenagers – or you may take one of many guided excursions, to find extra in regards to the historical past and traditions of Parliament and its residence.
In addition to the 90-minute guided tour out there for all guests, there’s additionally a 75-minute free possibility for UK residents.
UK residents can even get a free ticket to see a debate, both within the Home of Commons or the Home of Lords – value doing in the event you fancy taking in one of many extra well-liked debates. You’ll want ID, there’s airport-style safety and it’s a great plan to decorate fairly neatly too.
Contact your MP upfront, in any other case you may probability your luck on the day and queue to get in to see the Home in session – recess very often coincides with college holidays in the event you’re visiting with children although.
Westminster Abbey
Unmissable in case your children are fascinated with British historical past, over 3,300 folks have been buried or commemorated at Westminster Abbey, together with 16 separate British monarchs (or 17, in the event you consider the bones considered the Princes within the Tower embody these of Edward V) plus a lot of their consorts.
As you discover inside, you may see the tombs of Henry V and all of the Tudors besides Henry VIII, alongside early kings comparable to Edward the Confessor, who died per 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 beneficial – you may also purchase tickets with free cancellation right here.
Nationwide Belief
You must 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 outdoor in London with children.
- Osterley Park
The ‘palace of palaces’, as the home in west London was described, has reopened and you may discover the gorgeous gardens in addition to the ‘lengthy stroll’ by way of the woods. Prebook tickets right here. Try our time out 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 children on this submit.
English Heritage
London can also be residence to a number of superb English Heritage properties, though once more, you’ll must enterprise a bit manner 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 wonderful 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 serious restoration, bringing the Georgian villa to life and retelling the dramatic story of her life. Free to enter, prebook tickets right here.
There’s at the moment 15% off membership for English Heritage utilizing code EHAFF2023
Gunnersbury Park and Museum
The Rothschilds west London mansion as soon as laid declare to being some of the opulent homes within the capital – Disraeli mentioned even a banquet at Windsor Fort and Buckingham Palace couldn’t evaluate to dinner right here.
Now become the Gunnersbury Park Museum, you may be taught extra about its historical past in addition to exploring the previous kitchens, with interactive enjoyable for teenagers and a small museum on the realm.
Entry is free, though the museum is at the moment closed on Mondays, whereas the kitchens are closed on Mondays-Wednesdays. You may as well uncover a few of 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 children, try my high picks – plus this downloadable model
London excursions and different points of interest
For those who’re trying to save cash on a vacation in London with children (and who isn’t), try the London Move and London Explorer Move – each embody barely totally different points of interest and offers, in addition to lasting for various durations, so one of the best London metropolis go relies upon very a lot on how lengthy you’re staying and what you’re planning to see.
For extra concepts on learn how to lower your expenses on days out in London with children, try my high ideas
Thames river cruises
I like seeing London from the river, and it’s my favorite approach to journey right down to Greenwich on a sunny day too, with the river cruise and sightseeing corporations operating once more as regular.
There’s an enormous alternative of boat excursions in London with children 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, try Metropolis Cruises which runs numerous excursions alongside the river, or in the event you’re not bothered about commentary, Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is commonly a less expensive possibility, 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 children
London open-top buses
London has numerous open-top bus sightseeing excursions to select from, with totally different choices relying which routes and occasions you need.
Tootbus (beforehand referred to as The Unique Tour) has a particular 45-minute London Youngsters tour in addition to the London Specific two-hour tour, plus a hop-on hop-off possibility.
Or the hop-on hop-off route from London Large Bus Excursions additionally takes you previous most key landmarks, with some reductions on-line in the event you purchase upfront.
For those who fancy creating your personal bus tour for much less – and using on a purple 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 children, try my choose of one of the best, together with choices for teenagers and toddlers
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is definitely 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 may 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.
For those who’d like an opportunity of seeing the bridge’s spectacular opening as an even bigger boat comes by way of, verify the carry occasions.
Try the Tower Bridge Cat sequence of tales too, considered one of my picks for the greatest children books about London
The Sky Backyard
London’s highest public backyard is free to go to, though you do must ebook upfront to absorb 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 way in which, one other free factor to do in London with children in the event you don’t climb it), the backyard sits on the high of the skyscraper Londoners know because the Walkie Talkie constructing – in the event you’re combating instructions, it’s not tough to identify.
With a coated terrace, you will get some wonderful views throughout to the Shard, St Paul’s, Tower Bridge and alongside the Thames throughout your hour slot. You’ll be able to keep longer in the event you plan go to one of many locations to eat and drink, though these are (clearly) not free.
You may as well try 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 children
The London Eye
One of many iconic sights of the town, the London Eye can also be an incredible 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 in the event you purchase your tickets on-line upfront. There are additionally fast-track tickets out there to skip the queues, which is good with children, particularly in peak season.
You may as well purchase mixture tickets with the London Dungeon and close by London aquarium.
For extra concepts on how to save cash on days out in London with children, try my high ideas
Madame Tussaud’s
From celebrities to superheroes to the royal household, you may whereas away hours gazing on the waxworks on show at Madame Tussauds – and posing alongside fairly a number of.
And there are always 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, trend and movie.
Prebooked tickets are suggested – in the event you purchase direct, you may reschedule without cost plus there are on-line reductions for reserving upfront.
You may as well 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 children, regulate the pop-up occasions happening in addition to new short-term experiences like Twist Museum of Illusions
The London Dungeon
One for older and braver children, 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 sooner.
Certainly one of a string of places 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 nose to nose with the Nice Fireplace and Sweeney Todd.
Prebooking is strongly suggested, with on-line reductions in the event you purchase your tickets upfront: greatest for teenagers and braver tweens. You may as well purchase mixture tickets to different Merlin points of interest.
For extra issues to do on the South Financial institution with children, try my ideas
Golden Hinde
On the banks of the Thames, head again to Tudor occasions as you discover the reproduction of the Golden Hinde, the ship which Francis Drake sailed all over the world.
Tickets will be booked on-line or there are walk-up choices, in addition to some very enjoyable household experiences – thus far, we’ve loved a very memorable sleepover in addition to attempting out the model new escape room with children, 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 places.
There are a number of totally different programs to select from, however probably the most central is Go Ape Battersea Park, together with a treetop journey course in the event you’re visiting with youthful children (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 children, though that is solely appropriate for ages 10+ and 1.4m tall.
Shrek’s Journey
Shrek followers will love the prospect to stroll by way of the world of Far Far Away, assembly a few of the well-known characters together with Princess Fiona and Donkey.
There’s a problem to gather elements to search out Shrek and make it residence safely, in addition to 10 themed stay reveals and a 4D flying bus to finish Shrek’s Journey. Higher for main college aged children who’ll respect the enjoyable than for toddlers and preschoolers.
With the choice to reschedule without cost, you may also get mixed tickets to different Merlin points of interest, together with the close by aquarium or London Eye. Tickets with free cancellation are additionally out there 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 places 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 by way of the wall on the station concourse.
Then uncover a few of the places 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 all the things from the Marauder’s Map to packets of Bertie Bott’s Each Flavour Beans.
For extra Harry Potter places in London, try this submit, or try 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 high London points of interest with children.
Be ready to ebook nicely upfront to discover the Harry Potter Studios, particularly for Hogwarts within the Snow at Christmas and permit a number of time – there’s an enormous quantity of element for followers to take pleasure in.
For extra recommendations on visiting the Warner Bros studios in Leavesden in addition to concepts of the place to remain close to Harry Potter World, try this submit.
Catch a present
The West Finish is rightfully well-known for its theatre so in the event you’re visiting London with older children, try the offers on the TKTS sales space in Leicester Sq. in the event you haven’t booked upfront.
There’s loads for youthful guests to take pleasure in as nicely, with nice child-friendly reveals and a few wonderful kids’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 may 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 only a few.
For extra methods to discover low-cost theatre tickets in London with children, try 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 as we speak.
And in addition to shopping for a ticket for a efficiency – undoubtedly some of the memorable methods to see Shakespeare, particularly for teenagers finding out the performs – there are sometimes household workshops and occasions throughout college holidays.
You may as well 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.
Get outdoor in London
London could also be one of many world’s greatest 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 outdoor in London with children in the event you join the London with Youngsters publication right here
Go to the parks
London’s parks are good in the event you’re seeking to escape the crowds, or for some cool inexperienced area on sunny days, and every has its personal character – to not point out bogs and cafes, and often a minimum of one playground.
In central London alone, you may wander by way of 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 residence to the Diana Memorial Playground (working a one-in one-out rule at busy occasions), among the best playgrounds within the metropolis, together with the Peter Pan statue and the fountains within the north-east nook.
The well-known pelicans at St James’s Park are one of many greatest points of interest there – and an incredible 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 by way of 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 an incredible journey playground right here for teenagers too.
Pitzhanger Manor has a nature treasure hunt to obtain that’s nice for exploring any park or deliver a replica of I Spy within the Park for some added enjoyable
Not removed from the British Museum, Coram’s Fields is residence to playgrounds, a wildlife backyard and paddling pool – and it’s good for households as you’re solely allowed in in the event you’re visiting Coram’s Fields with children.
In north London, you could possibly get a sneak peek of some of the animals at the zoo from the trail at Regent’s Park – the zoo itself can also be open – or mix your stroll with a stroll alongside the Regent’s Canal.
From right here, you could possibly 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.
For those who’re in south London, you may take pleasure in some extra river views from Battersea Park as discover tranquillity on the Peace Pagoda. The points of interest inside the park embody Battersea Park Youngsters’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 could possibly climb King Henry’s Mound and take in the views of the town or see the vivid flowers of the Isabella Plantation.
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 time out in London with children, you may 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 a number of years in the past).
For extra free locations to go to in London with children try this submit – 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.
Paddington Recreation Floor – aka Paddington Rec, close to Maida Vale tube – is among the most spectacular, with its pastel colored playhouses, steamliner, practice, 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 may additionally be a part of the Thames Path right here in addition to testing Fulham Palace gardens subsequent door.
Jubilee Park & Backyard close to the London Eye has its personal playground in the event 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, try this submit
Splash within the fountains
One attraction that’s just for the summer time, 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 (children must put on a high 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, try this submit
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 along with your stroll.
In any other case, head to the South Financial institution, the place there’s at all times one thing to see – try 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.
Certainly one of my favorite stretches of river, you’ll discover quirky artwork and iconic buildings for a few of London’s greatest Instagram views too.
For those who’re seeking to get onto the river itself, try one of the best boat journeys in London with children
Discover the canals
For an additional waterfront wander, head to London’s canals. The stretch of the Regent’s Canal round Little Venice is among the greatest identified however you may also head right 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 may see the Fan Bridge being lifted at Paddington Basin as nicely.
Stroll The Line
The Line is London’s first public artwork stroll, operating 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 in the event you don’t fancy following your entire route, which takes round 2 1/2 hours to stroll (probably extra in the event you’re doing it with children!)
Go to Kew Gardens
I’ve visited Kew Gardens numerous occasions 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 children
You’ll discover common household occasions happening, from college vacation trails (comparable to this one themed round the Beano) to the Christmas at Kew mild path, in addition to the implausible Youngsters’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’ll be able to stroll contained in the Hive and head as much as the treetop cover, enterprise into the glass homes, and discover out what it feels prefer to be a badger – to not point out flowers galore all year long.
Tickets can be found a number of months upfront – click on right here to prebook – and time slots to the Youngsters’s Backyard can be prebooked, which is a good suggestion throughout peak season, weekends and college holidays particularly.
You may as well go to Kew Palace as a part of entry to the gardens, whereas Queen Charlotte’s cottage is open through the summer time months.
WWT London Wetland Centre
At this inexperienced oasis not removed from Hammersmith, you may spot short-clawed otters and uncover extra in regards to the wetlands, in addition to attempting 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 out of doors play space, with tunnels, water play and the same old playground enjoyable.
Look out for particular trails, together with big Lego statues, in addition to serving to children to be taught extra about nature and conservation as you stroll across the wetlands themselves.
Tickets to the London Wetland Centre in Barnes will 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 time out 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 by way of the character reserve to discover throughout 211 hectares.
Europe’s largest city wetland reserve is ready round 10 reservoirs, and there are common trails to find, plus a customer centre within the Victorian Engine Home.
Additionally it is 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 principle entrance on Ferry Lane/Forest Street.
For extra free locations to go to in London with children try this submit – 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.
When you go to, you may also 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.
Chelsea Physic Backyard
The fascinating mixture of vegetation on the Chelsea Physic Backyard make it a stunning place to whereas away an hour or so with children.
One thing of a hidden gem beside the Thames, there are sometimes kids’s trails in addition to the glasshouses to discover.
Stroll-up tickets can be found, or you may 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 favor to browse the market stalls, take pleasure in some avenue theatre or uncover the newest shows.
At Christmas, big baubles cling 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 may spot something from magic tips to music – it’s free to look at, though in the event you benefit from the present, it’s solely truthful to drop one thing within the hat on the finish.
When you’re there, take a stroll over to close by Neal’s Yard for its eye-catchingly brilliant buildings.
For those who’re searching for one of the best locations to remain close to Covent Backyard with children, try my choose of household accommodations in London
Spot avenue artwork
There’s loads of avenue artwork to identify across the capital – one thing which adjustments repeatedly, so it’s attainable 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 in the event you’re near Liverpool Avenue and Spitalfields, there’s avenue artwork to be discovered right here too.
The Leake Avenue tunnel close to Waterloo adjustments always 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 – observe the Wooden Avenue Partitions maps.
For extra issues to do in Camden with children, try my high picks
And you’ll nonetheless spot a few of the 40 artistic endeavors created by greater than 15 artists through the London Mural Competition again in 2020.
Go on a treasure hunt
I’m a giant fan of treasure-hunt model trails to discover cities with children – much more thrilling than merely wandering, it retains them engaged and entertained, and also you get to do a number of sightseeing alongside the way in which.
For youthful children, 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 good with children: brightly colored, with a unusual theme, plus the problem of recognizing a number of surprising particulars you may 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 maps – Covent Backyard, Leicester Sq. & Chinatown + Trafalgar Sq..
There are extra choices to boost a stroll in London with children from Treasure Trails too. We adopted the Greenwich Treasure Path with associates final summer time which took us from the Cutty Sark by way of the park, previous the Royal Observatory, the Prime Meridian and to the Nationwide Maritime Museum and riverside.
There’s a whole of fifty totally 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 dwelling in London, there’s at all times one thing new to find.
Uncover the Secret Tales of London
With so many centuries of historical past, you could possibly spend your entire 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 children in thoughts, they’re written to entertain in addition to inform (full disclosure: I’ve written a number of for OS) with subjects on all the things 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 range, together with some free choices.
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 Nationwide Portrait Gallery
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.
Getting round London with children
Realistically, it’s tough to get round London with out utilizing public transport in any respect – in the event you do plan to drive, the congestion cost has been expanded over the previous couple of years, with the price rising to £15.
Some automobiles must pay further inside the Extremely Low Emission Zone, or ULEZ), which can also be increasing in 2023
And that’s all earlier than you pay for parking as nicely… So public transport is by far the simplest approach 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).
Youngsters below 11 journey free on the tube, with diminished costs for youngsters aged 11-15 as nicely – for extra recommendations on utilizing the London Underground with children, click on right here, together with particulars of getting diminished fares.
Accompanied children aged below 15 journey free on buses as nicely. Click on right here for the newest data on public transport in London, together with security measures, comparable to particulars of carrying masks and when the busiest stations and occasions to keep away from are, accessibility and another adjustments.
When you’re within the centre, I’d at all times advocate strolling round London the place you may as there’s a lot to see that you just’ll miss underground.
For extra information and concepts, join the London with Youngsters publication or be a part of the London with children Fb group which I assist to run
*First printed summer time 2020, final up to date 2023*
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Predominant 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
