Why London is a top European destination for kids
Written by Karen Bryan
If you are taking kids on a trip, you want to know that there will be plenty to keep them entertained. I reckon that London is one of best places to visit in Europe with children. Here are some ideas for things to do in London with kids.
1 London Museums
London has so many museums, state museums are free to enter (but there may be a fee for special exhibitions), this is such a bonus as it also gives you an all weather option. Heather’s top three London museums for families are the Science Museum, the Natural History Museum and the Victoria and Albert. Neha recommends the Transport Museum and Pollocks Toy Museum and but there’s an entry fee at these venues.
Pattern Pod at the Science Museum London by heatheronhertravels
2 London Parks
Hyde Park is a large open space in central London, ideal for a picnic or a row on the Serpentine Lake. The Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens has a full size pirate ship replica. London Zoo and the Open Air Theatre are at Regents Park. St James Park is close to Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square, kids love pelican feeding time at 2.30pm
Diana Memorial Playground by sightseeingLondon
3 London City Farms
There are ten city farms in London where you an experience the country life without leaving the city. Hackney City Farm is open Tuesday – Sunday from 10am – 4.30pm, a late afternoon visit would incorporate feeding time at 4pm. The onsite Frizzante Cafe won a Time Out award for the best family restaurant.
Hackney City Farm plan by aburt
4 London Theatre
With so many theatres in London, there is bound to be a selection of shows suitable for kids and families. You should check out the deals available on London West End tickets as it’s often cheaper to purchase through a third party. An annual Kids Week (it’s actually on for two weeks) runs during August when one child aged 5 – 16 gets a free ticket for specified shows when an adult buys a full price ticket. There’s also a range of free activities such as puppet shows and behind the scenes tours.
Lion King at Lyceum Theatre by AndyRob
Best of London Tips
Read our Best of London Travel Tips, to help you get the most from your visit to the city.
I’d have to add Greenwich. My kids had a great time at the Observatory, there is a boat ride there from central London, and a very nice playground in the enormous grounds.
Jennifer – thanks for your Greenwich tip. Our sons used to be fascinated by walking through the Greenwich foot tunnel under the River Thames.
Great post, Karen. I was just in London with my children and we happened to hit all of these, except for the city farms (next trip). So I can say that these truly were highlights with kids – the Diana Memorial Playground especially. I’ve never had to queue to enter a playground before, but my kids were thrilled as soon as they entered.
Great article!! You have pointed out some of my favourite London with kids destinations.
Spot on with many of the recommendations! But you’re left out several key places for a rainy day:
Madam Tussauds wax museum – always a great place to bring kids
London Dungeons – a bit of a ripoff IMO, but a great experience