In London with Kids: Top Attractions, Family Hotels & Fun Things to Do

6. Absolutely, yes! Your Kids Will Love London.

Are you considering visiting London with your kids but not sure if they’ll enjoy it? Sure, an international vacation with Mom and/or Dad sounds great, but is London really the place to take them? In a nutshell, yes. Bringing the family to London is one of the wisest travel decisions you may ever make, and it will undoubtedly created memories to last a lifetime. There are only a handful of world-class cities, with London being one of them, that can combine globally recognized museums that offer FREE admission, iconic sightseeing, lush and beautiful parks, inexpensive and easy-to-use public transportation, diverse cuisine from around the world, and dozens of kid and family-friendly attractions that have you wishing you had the time to stay longer.

Experienced world travelers will tell you that London is clean, very walkable, safe, designed to easily navigate even with a stroller, and can be visited affordably by taking advantage of the many local markets with cheap eats and FREE attractions for which it is famous. Listed below you will find a healthy list of things to do with kids while you’re here. There are many more beyond these that may interest you such as sporting events including soccer (football) and tennis at Wimbledon, taking a ride on the upper level of a red double-decker bus, or getting great seats at one of the West End’s incredible plays or musical extravaganzas.

There is no limit to what will fascinate you here, with the ones below being some of our favorites. We strongly recommend that, whenever possible, make your reservations, even for venues that are FREE, online as far in advance of your planned visit so that you will have an assigned entry time before arriving.

6. Camden Market

Camden Market is one of the top spots in London for browsing shops filled with arts and crafts, as well as unique handmade items. With a wide variety of street food to graze on, this is a wonderful place let your older kids (10-16) explore for themselves with you observing. They can burn off energy while at Hawley Wharf which includes local retail shops and a modern food mall. Adults will especially enjoy the Stables Market which specializes in antiques and vintage fashion.

6. The Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace takes place on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings at 10:45 with the ceremony lasting about 45 minutes. This fascinating piece of local color takes place at the front gate of the palace, which is the official home for King Charles, as it was for Queen Elizabeth II from 1952 until her passing in 2022. Because the crowds tend to arrive early to find a prime viewing location, this is better suited for kids that won’t get too anxious standing around while awaiting the arrival of the New Guard from Wellington Barracks. Plan to arrive an hour early if you can so that you will be close to the military band that marches with precision to the guard’s outpost. If that’s asking too much of your kids (or you), later arrivals can still enjoy the show from the Victoria Memorial steps directly across from the palace, or along The Mall near Marlborough Road.

6. Covent Garden

Covent Garden in London’s West End close to the Royal Opera House is a fun shopping and people-watching experience centered on the pedestrian-only Piazza. Sprawling over 17 blocks, the area features street performers that your kids will love, as well as 300+ shops, 100+ dining options, and an energizing atmosphere that is fun for all ages. Especially busy during weekends and the peak summer tourism season, be sure to check out the craft stalls at the Apple Market and the vintage automobiles at the London Transport Museum.

6. The Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens

It has been closed for a complete renovation since last year and is scheduled to re-open during the summer of 2026. Designed for kids ages 12 and younger, kids can let their imagination run wild in this magical place based on the tales of Peter Pan. There’s a large wooden pirate ship for climbing, as well as slides and swings. There’s even a section of the playground dedicated to children with visual and physical disabilities. Younger kids may need a nap after running around here for a while. Admission to Diana’s Memorial Playground is FREE.

6. London Dungeon

is a walk-thorough tourist attraction where visitors step back through the dark history of disreputable characters such as Jack the Ripper, Sweeney Todd, and Guy Fawkes. Recommended for ages 12 and older, the immersive and reportedly haunted attraction includes live actors, potentially scary moments, special effects, rides, and an experience unlike any other in London. Located on the South Bank of the River Thames, the London Eye and SEA LIFE London Aquarium are right next door.

6. London Eye

is the #1 paid tourist attraction in the UK with more than three million annual visitors. Climb aboard one of the glass capsules for incredible 360-degree views of the skyline and surrounding area. Technically considered an observation wheel, the smooth and slow moving ride is great for younger and older kids, and for anyone who may typically be nervous about heights. See famous sights including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the sparkling River Thames.

6. The National Maritime Museum

in Greenwich offers fun interactive exhibits making it an ideal opportunity for families to spend some time indoors. Admission to the world’s largest museum exploring seafaring is FREE. Be sure to visit the interesting galleries that detail the history of Britain’s Royal Navy. Other exhibits of interest offer insight into famous sea voyages to the Arctic, Antarctic, and the world’s great oceans. Also on display are relics from the Titanic and the jacket worn by famed explorer Nelson Trafalgar. The water-themed outdoor play area, the Cove Playground, will entice your youngsters to let off some steam.

6. London’s Natural History Museum

is yet another FREE attraction that everyone will love. From the giant whale, earthquake simulator, and dinosaurs in the main hall, to a giant moving T-Rex, the giant blue whale “Hope”, and to the fascinating cross-section of a 1,300-year-old giant sequoia tree, there is so much here to take in that you could spend the better part of a day here. Hands-on science is what it’s all about. The museum has enormous open spaces where the little ones can scamper about, and comfortable cafes for family breaks.

6. Visit a stunning Royal Park.

Plan some FREE time to chill, take a stroll, let the kids stretch their legs and run about, or discover a playground at centrally located Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, or The Regent’s Park & Primrose Hill. These and many other Royal Parks are FREE to enjoy and are favored by locals for their beautiful gardens from spring to fall. Another popular and yes, FREE activity is walking or jogging a part of or all of the four mile long South Bank Walk, officially The Queen’s Walk, along the River Thames.

6. The Science Museum

one of the best ways to spend a rainy day, of which there are bound to be some while you’re here. This very interactive museum is especially fun for kids of all ages but offers more than enough to fascinate their parents, too. Popular galleries include inventions, space tech, the gaming zones, and enormous STEM exhibits. There are live science shows in the Wonderlab, spacecraft and satellites in the Space Gallery, the IMAX Ronson Theatre (paid entry) documentaries on the 3D screen, and more galleries featuring aircraft, engines, and medical research. With the exception of the IMAX flicks, the museum is FREE.

6. SEA LIFE London Aquarium

is another great indoor day option, though your kids will want to go here even if the sun is shining. Sharks, rays, Antarctic penguins, crocodiles, snakes, the UK’s largest jellyfish and coral reef exhibits, starfish, and so much more. Three floors of FREE stroller-friendly exploration that your kids will never forget.

6. A Thames speedboat ride

is something that surprises many visitors to London. While stress-free river cruises on the Thames have long been an enjoyable and scenic option, the thrilling speedboat rides traveling past some of the world’s most iconic sights are a high-energy highlight for many tourists. Kids 8+ are permitted on the speedboats, with infants and toddlers limited to the riverboat tours which are still highly recommended. Keep in mind that the riverboat cruises are enclosed for passenger comfort, so even on a cloudy or cool day you can sail past Big Ben, Westminster, the Shard, Tower Bridge, and other iconic London sights.

6. The Shard

is not only a stunning 95-story glass tower, but it’s the tallest building in London. The crystalline angles of the building dominates the skyline, allowing for the best views of the entire city and beyond. Levels 68 & 69 offer 360-degree indoor viewing galleries, while a bit higher on Level 72 is an open-air Skydeck that will take your breath away. Once you’ve entered you are allowed to stay as long as you’d like, and if visibility is poor on your chosen day, you will have three months to return for free. The Shard is built atop the London Bridge tube station so is extremely easy to find.

6. Tower Bridge

is sometimes confused with London Bridge, but this is the one that you want to see. Opened in 1894, Queen Victoria requested the Neo-Gothic design, and the architects clearly did not disappoint her. Your kids may not be extremely interested in the historical exhibition inside, the skyline views are amazing.

6. The Tower of London

is a must-see if you are traveling with kids of 10+ years. It’s home to the Crown Jewels and during more than 1,000 years of history it has been an execution site, a royal palace, prison, armory, zoo, and a fortress.

6. Up at The O2

is a unique and exhilarating experience that may interest families with active kids who are 12+ years of age. For something different, make this roof top climb with them. The 90-minute climb is led by a guide who shows the way across a tensile fabric walkway above The O2’s dome. Participants wear a climb suit, harness, and boots, and clip into a safety line. There is a 28-degree uphill trek to the summit where you will be 171 feet above street level with an amazing view of Central London. The good news is that it’s 28-degrees downhill for the return to your starting point.

6. Young V&A Museum

formerly the V&A Museum of Childhood is located in the Bethnal Green area of London’s East End. It is a branch of the world-famous Victoria and Albert Museum. Not only is this another FREE museum, but the daily activities offered here are also complimentary. Hands-on family events and special performances take place during school holiday breaks and the summer. Kids are encouraged to ‘imagine, play, and design’ while here, with the many exhibits and games found throughout the facility being 100% kid-focused.

6. At Warner Bros. Studio Tours London

fans of Harry Potter can learn how the eight incredible movies were made. Located 20 minutes north of Central London by train followed by a complimentary 15-minute shuttle bus ride to the studio in Leavesden, kids ages 6-12 will especially enjoy this attraction. The studio tour is one of the most popular attractions in the UK. It offers a highly immersive behind-the-scenes exploration of real sets, costumes, props, and all of the latest techniques that go into creating a movie. TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE. Kid’s favorites here include the Forbidden Forest, Diagon Alley, Gringotts Wizarding Bank, and of course, the Hogwarts Express. Guests will be amazed when they visit the backlot and learn about creature, special, and visual effects. The average time spent at Warner Bros. is up to five hours, though many people make a full day of it.

6. ZSL London Zoo

is located in The Regent’s Park and is a fabulous family experience, especially for kids ages 3-9. If possible, plan some pre- or post-zoo time at the Gloucester Gate Playground which is nearby within the park. Known as the world’s oldest scientific zoo that houses over 14,000 animals, global conservation is at the top of ZSL’s commitments. Founded in 1828, favorite areas at the zoo these days include Tiger Territory featuring endangered Sumatran tigers, Gorilla Kingdom with a rainforest environment, Land of the Lions, Penguin Beach, and the Reptile House. There are immersive exhibits and special presentation with close-up animal experiences offered daily.

6. An Unforgettable Vacation to London is Just a Few Clicks Away

As one of the absolute best cities to visit in the world for adults, it comes as no surprise that England’s capital city is just as incredible for kids of all ages to explore. There’s really no reason to feel overwhelmed by the sheer size of London and all that it has to offer. By choosing accommodations in or close to Central London – we recommend the neighborhoods of Covent Garden, Kensington, Soho, and the South Bank if this will be your first time here, you will be within minutes of a myriad of famous tourist sites either on foot, by bus or train (The Tube), taxi or Uber.

Our go-to hotel booking website is Travelated, where it’s easy to find a property that’s exactly right for you and your family. With more than 500 London area hotels offered, you can compare not only prices, but amenities, location, and see reviews from past travelers. Some of our favorite hotels in the neighborhoods mentioned above include:

1. NoMad London

Address: 28 Bow Street, London, WC2E 7AW, GB

NoMad London, rated five stars.

2. Sofitel London St James

Address: 6 Waterloo Place, London, SW1Y 4AN, GB

Sofitel London St. James, five stars

3. The Chesterfield Mayfair

Address: 35 Charles Street Mayfair, London, WIX 8LX, GB

The Chesterfield Mayfair, four stars

4. London Bridge Hotel

Address: 8-18 London Bridge St, Newington, SE1 9SG, GB

London Bridge Hotel, four stars

5. Leicester House Hotel

Address: 1 Leicester Street, London, WC2H 7BL, GB

Leicester House Hotel, four stars

6. Wilde Aparthotels London Covent Garden

Address: 11 Adam Street Covent Garden, London, WC2R 0DA, GB

Wilde ApartHotels Covent Garden London, four stars

7. The Resident Soho

Address: 10 Carlisle Street, London, W1D 3BR, GB

The Resident Soho, four stars

8. The London EDITION

Address: 10 Berners Street, London, W1T 3NP, GB

The London EDITION, five stars

9. Hilton London Bankside

Address: 2-8 Great Suffolk Street, Newington, SE1 0UG, GB

Hilton London Bankside, five stars

10. InterContinental London - The O2

Address: 1 Waterview Drive, North Greenwich, SE10 0TW, GB

InterContinental London – The O2, five stars

6. “We’d Be Delighted to See You…”

…is how you might be invited to pay a visit to London, or Great Britain, or the British Isles, or the UK, or England, all of which just happen to be the same place. No matter how you say it, the people here are incredibly hospitable and would love for you to plan a trip in their direction. London is such as amazing destination even if you don’t travel beyond it during your first trip to the UK. And if you, as a parent, have already been here but your children have not, there’s no better time than now to introduce them to the culture, the sights, the diversity, and the beauty of this magnificent city.