Planning a trip to London with kids can feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube while blindfolded. You want culture, they want fun, everyone needs snacks, and somehow you’ve got to keep the entire crew happy while navigating the Tube with a stroller. But here’s the good news: London is actually a brilliant city for families. When it comes to things to do in London with kids, you’re spoiled for choice.
I’m talking world-class museums that won’t bore your children to tears, parks where they can actually run around without you stress-sweating, and attractions that’ll make you look like Parent of the Year. Let me walk you through the best family-friendly activities in London that’ll keep everyone smiling – yes, even your moody tween.
Free Museums: The Best Things to Do in London with Kids on a Budget
Discover Dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum
If your kids are even remotely into dinosaurs (and let’s face it, what kid isn’t?), the Natural History Museum is non-negotiable. When people ask me about the top things to do in London with kids, this museum always makes my list. The moment you walk into the main hall and see that massive blue whale skeleton hanging overhead, you’ll understand why this place is so popular.
The star attraction? The animatronic T-Rex that roars and moves in the Dinosaur Gallery. Kids go absolutely bonkers for it. Add in the earthquake simulator, the dazzling gemstone collection, and enough fossils to keep your little paleontologists occupied for hours, and you’ve got a winner.
Pro parent tip: Hit the museum right when it opens at 10 AM to beat the crowds. The place gets absolutely rammed by midday, especially during school holidays. Oh, and it’s completely free, which means more budget for those inevitable gift shop requests.
If you want a guided tour with a professional historian, book this top-rated Natural History Museum guided tour.
Address: Cromwell Road, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD
Opening Times: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:50 PM (last entry 5:30 PM)
Admission: FREE
Press Every Button at the Science Museum
Right next door to the Natural History Museum (yes, you can knock out both in one ambitious day), the Science Museum is pure interactive gold. This is one of those things to do in London with kids that doesn’t feel educational, even though it totally is. Kids can explore flight simulators, gawk at actual space rockets, and basically run around pressing every button they can find.
The Wonderlab is the crown jewel – live science shows, hands-on experiments, and interactive exhibits that make learning feel like playing. My kids spent a solid hour in the Pattern Pod (designed for under-8s) and we practically had to drag them out. The main museum is free, but the Wonderlab does require paid tickets. There’s also an IMAX cinema if you want to make it a full-day adventure.
Address: Exhibition Road, South Kensington, London SW7 2DD
Opening Times: Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Admission: FREE (Wonderlab requires tickets: Adults £12, Children £10)
Hunt for Mummies at the British Museum
You might think the British Museum might be a tough sell for kids. Ancient artifacts? Sounds like snooze city, right? Wrong. When you frame it as a “real-life treasure hunt” where they can see actual Egyptian mummies and the Rosetta Stone, kids suddenly become very interested historians. This is definitely one of the more educational things to do in London with kids that they’ll actually enjoy.
The Egyptian galleries are the big draw. Something about mummies captures children’s imaginations like nothing else. The museum also offers free family activity trails and backpacks that turn the visit into an interactive adventure.
Too overwhelming? Consider joining this highly rated British Museum guided tour.
Address: Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, London WC1B 3DG
Opening Times: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Fridays until 8:30 PM)
Admission: FREE
Explore Modern Art at the Tate Modern
Don’t sleep on the Tate Modern just because it’s contemporary art. The massive Turbine Hall alone is worth the visit – it’s this cavernous space where kids can actually run around without getting shushed. Plus, modern art is wonderfully open to interpretation, which means kids can say whatever they think about a piece and technically they’re not wrong.
“That looks like when my little brother scribbles on the wall!” Exactly, and some artist probably got paid millions for it. It’s free, it’s different, and it’s a nice break from traditional “look at old stuff” museums.
Make the most of your visit with the Tate’s official guided tour.
Address: Bankside, London SE1 9TG
Opening Times: Sunday-Thursday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Friday-Saturday 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Admission: FREE (special exhibitions may charge)
Iconic London Attractions: Things to Do in London with Kids They’ll Never Forget
Meet Ravens and Royalty at the Tower of London
Looking for memorable things to do in London with kids? The Tower of London has everything: stories about beheadings (kids love the gruesome bits), the dazzling Crown Jewels, and the famous ravens. The Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters) give tours full of entertaining stories that bring the past to life.
Tell your kids that if the ravens ever leave the Tower, the kingdom will fall. They’ll spend ages watching those birds. The Crown Jewels are genuinely impressive – all that bling makes kids’ eyes pop. Book online in advance for better prices and to skip some queues.
Address: Tower of London, London EC3N 4AB
Opening Times: Tuesday-Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM, Sunday-Monday 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (seasonal variations)
Admission: Adults £34.80, Children (5-15) £17.40, Under 5s FREE
Walk on Glass at Tower Bridge
Here’s a photo op your kids will actually think is cool. Tower Bridge has a glass floor walkway where you can watch boats passing beneath your feet. The “wow” factor is real – even teenagers will look up from their phones for this one. It’s one of those things to do in London with kids that delivers instant excitement.
You can also explore the Victorian engine rooms and learn how this massive bridge used to work. The combination of engineering and that stomach-dropping glass floor keeps the whole family engaged.
Get your Tower Bridge ticket to access both towers, the walkways, the glass floor, and the engine rooms.
Address: Tower Bridge Road, London SE1 2UP
Opening Times: Daily 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry 5:00 PM)
Admission: Adults £12.30, Children (5-15) £6.20, Under 5s FREE
Watch the Guards at Buckingham Palace
Kids love saying they’ve seen where the King lives. During summer (late July through September), you can actually tour the State Rooms, which are ridiculously opulent – like something out of a fairy tale. Even if you don’t go inside, watching the Changing of the Guard is one of the classic free things to do in London with kids.
The ceremony happens at 11 AM on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays (check the schedule as it changes). Get there early for a good view, because it gets mobbed. The military bands sometimes play pop songs, which kids find hilarious.
Join a walking tour and watch the ceremonial changing of the King’s Guard & the Horse Guard Parade.
Address: Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA
Opening Times: State Rooms open late July – September, typically 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM; Changing of the Guard at 11:00 AM (selected days)
Admission: State Rooms: Adults £33, Children (5-17) £21, Under 5s FREE; Changing of the Guard: FREE
Snap Photos at Big Ben & Houses of Parliament
This is your classic “short stop, big photo moment” attraction. Your kids can say they saw Big Ben (officially the Elizabeth Tower, but who’s counting?), you get your obligatory London photos, and you move on. Sometimes the simplest tourist spots are the most satisfying things to do in London with kids.
Address: Westminster, London SW1A 0AA
Opening Times: Exterior viewing anytime; tours available (book in advance)
Admission: Exterior viewing FREE; tours vary in price
Climb the Dome at St. Paul’s Cathedral
If you’ve got energetic kids or teens who like a challenge, climbing the dome at St. Paul’s is an adventure. It’s 528 steps to the top, but the views are spectacular. Younger kids might just enjoy the grand architecture and massive doors – everything feels enormous and impressive.
Address: St. Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD
Opening Times: Monday-Saturday 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (closed Sundays except for worship)
Admission: Adults £25, Children (6-17) £11, Under 6s FREE
Get your ticket to St. Paul’s Cathedral here.
Interactive Experiences: Active Things to Do in London with Kids
Cruise the Thames River
Even kids who normally hate sightseeing enjoy being on a boat. A Thames River cruise is one of the most relaxing things to do in London with kids because everyone gets to sit down (hallelujah!) while still seeing major landmarks. The commentary points out everything without being boring, and sunset cruises add an extra touch of magic.
It’s a break for your feet and entertainment for the kids – double win.
Book this super popular Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise.
Address: Multiple departure points (Westminster Pier, Tower Pier, Greenwich Pier)
Opening Times: Cruises run throughout the day, typically 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Admission: Adults from £15-25, Children from £7.50-12.50 (varies by route and operator)
Ride the London Eye
Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s expensive. But you know what? Kids just might love the London Eye, making it one of the most popular things to do in London with kids. There’s something magical about slowly rotating 135 meters above London in a giant glass capsule.
Each rotation takes about 30 minutes – just long enough to keep kids interested without anyone getting restless. Book tickets online in advance to save money and skip lines. Go late afternoon to see the city in daylight and watch the sunset.
Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB
Opening Times: Daily 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (extended hours in peak season)
Admission: Adults from £32, Children (3-15) from £27, Under 3s FREE
Experience Shakespeare at the Globe Theatre
The reconstructed Globe Theatre offers family-friendly performances and daytime shows that make Shakespeare accessible for kids. The interactive staging and close-to-the-action seating (you can sit right on the stage edge for some shows) keeps them engaged in ways traditional theatre doesn’t. It’s one of the more cultural things to do in London with kids that won’t put them to sleep.
Even if you don’t catch a show, the Globe tour is fascinating – kids love hearing about how audiences used to throw rotten vegetables at bad actors.
Address: 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London SE1 9DT
Opening Times: Performances and tours vary seasonally
Admission: Theatre tours: Adults £19, Children (5-15) £13, Under 5s FREE; Show tickets vary
Catch a West End Musical
Here’s where London really shines for families – the West End has some of the most spectacular family-friendly musicals in the world. Catching a show is one of the most magical things to do in London with kids. Shows like The Lion King, Matilda, Frozen, Wicked, and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child are specifically designed to captivate kids (and let’s be real, the adults are just as mesmerized).
The production values are incredible – think stunning costumes, jaw-dropping sets, and songs your kids will sing for weeks afterward. The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre is a perennial favorite with its opening scene that has full-size animal puppets walking through the aisles. Matilda at the Cambridge Theatre is perfect for bookish kids and has magic tricks that’ll leave them wondering “how’d they do that?!”
Pro tip: Book tickets well in advance for better prices and seat selection. Wednesday matinees and some Thursday shows offer better deals. Kids must be at least 3-5 years old for most shows (age restrictions vary), and honestly, kids under 5 probably won’t sit through a 2.5-hour production anyway. Consider the “restricted view” seats if you’re on a budget – they’re significantly cheaper and often the view isn’t that bad.
Address: Various West End theatres (Leicester Square, Covent Garden area, London WC2)
Opening Times: Matinee shows typically 2:30 PM; Evening shows typically 7:30 PM (varies by production)
Admission: From £25-150+ per person depending on show, seats, and day (family packages and advance bookings offer savings)
Buy tickets for:
Food Markets: Delicious Things to Do in London with Kids
Sample Everything at Borough Market
This one’s genius for families with picky eaters: Borough Market has so many food stalls that everyone can pick exactly what they want. It’s one of my favorite things to do in London with kids because there are no family arguments about where to eat – just wander, sample, and let each kid choose their own lunch.
The smells, sounds, and colors fascinate kids even if they’re cautious eaters. Hit it on Thursday or Friday for the full experience with slightly fewer crowds than Saturday.
Know what’s even more fun? Join a food tour of Borough Market with a passionate local food guide!
Address: 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL
Opening Times: Monday-Thursday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Friday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission: FREE to browse
Explore Street Food at Camden Market
Camden Market is where the cool kids (and alternative adults) hang out. Street food from around the world, colorful shops, funky artwork – the whole vibe is energetic and fun. Kids love exploring the maze of stalls and discovering weird, wonderful things. This is especially good for older kids and teens looking for unique things to do in London with kids beyond typical tourist spots.
The food options are endless, and there’s always something visually interesting happening.
Book this highly rated Camden Market food tour!
Address: Camden Lock Place, London NW1 8AF
Opening Times: Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (some areas stay open later)
Admission: FREE to browse
Feast Indoors at Seven Dials Market
When London weather turns (and it will), Seven Dials Market is your answer. This indoor food hall is clean, bright, and bustling with options. The dessert stalls are particularly popular with the younger crowd, and you can all sit together while eating different cuisines.
Address: Earlham Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9LX
Opening Times: Monday-Saturday 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Sunday 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Admission: FREE to browse
Taste Dim Sum in Chinatown
Most kids can find something they like in Chinatown – whether it’s fluffy buns, noodles, bubble tea, or dim sum. The colorful gates and lanterns make it feel like stepping into a different world, and the energy is infectious.
Address: Gerrard Street, Soho, London W1D (pedestrian area)
Opening Times: Restaurants vary, typically 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Admission: FREE to explore
Fun London Neighborhoods: Entertaining Things to Do in London with Kids
Watch Street Performers at Covent Garden
Covent Garden’s piazza is where street performers work their magic – literally. Magicians, acrobats, living statues, musicians – kids stand mesmerized while genuinely talented performers do their thing. It’s one of the best free things to do in London with kids (though performers work for tips, so have change ready).
Grab gelato, find a spot to sit, and enjoy the show. The performers rotate throughout the day, so you’ll see something different if you circle back later.
Address: Covent Garden Piazza, London WC2E 8RF
Opening Times: Outdoor area accessible 24/7; shops typically 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Admission: FREE
Visit the LEGO Store at Leicester Square
M&M’s World. The LEGO Store. Giant statues of movie characters. Leicester Square is basically designed for children’s entertainment, making it one of the most commercial but undeniably fun things to do in London with kids. Yes, it’s touristy, but kids absolutely love it. The LEGO Store alone can eat up an hour of happy browsing time.
Address: Leicester Square, London WC2H 7NA
Opening Times: Square accessible 24/7; shops typically 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Admission: FREE (individual shops have their own pricing)
Wander Through Soho’s Neon Lights
Soho’s neon lights, eclectic restaurants, and lively atmosphere make it fun to explore – especially as evening approaches and everything lights up. It’s got that big-city energy that makes kids feel like they’re somewhere special and exciting.
Address: Soho, London W1D (general area)
Opening Times: Streets accessible 24/7; businesses vary
Admission: FREE to explore
Photograph Colorful Houses in Notting Hill
Those colorful houses you see all over Instagram? That’s Notting Hill. Kids love the rainbow of painted townhouses, and the weekend Portobello Road Market is fun for browsing quirky shops and vintage finds. It’s a bit more low-key than central London, which can be a nice change of pace.
Address: Portobello Road, Notting Hill, London W11
Opening Times: Market runs Saturday 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (shops open throughout the week)
Admission: FREE
Green Spaces: Outdoor Things to Do in London with Kids
Rent Paddle Boats at Hyde Park
At 350 acres, Hyde Park gives you space to breathe when London starts feeling overwhelming. When looking for outdoor things to do in London with kids, this park is essential. Rent paddle boats on the Serpentine, feed the ducks, let kids run around the playgrounds, or just sprawl on the grass and decompress.
In summer, there are sometimes outdoor concerts and events. It’s the perfect reset button when everyone’s getting cranky from too much walking.
Address: Hyde Park, London W2 2UH
Opening Times: Daily 5:00 AM – midnight
Admission: FREE (boat rentals extra: around £12 per 30 minutes)
Spot Pelicans at St. James’s Park
The swans, pelicans, and squirrels in St. James’s Park fascinate children, and the postcard-perfect views of Buckingham Palace from the bridge are stunning. It’s smaller and more manicured than Hyde Park but equally lovely for a breather.
Address: St. James’s Park, London SW1A 2BJ
Opening Times: Daily 5:00 AM – midnight
Admission: FREE
Walk the Canal at Regent’s Park
This beautiful park connects to the Regent’s Canal, which you can walk all the way to Camden Market or London Zoo. The canal towpath is flat, scenic, and perfect for kids on scooters or bikes. Watching the colorful narrowboats drift by never gets old.
Address: Regent’s Park, London NW1 4NR
Opening Times: Daily 5:00 AM – dusk
Admission: FREE
Play Pirates at Kensington Gardens
The Princess Diana Memorial Playground is hands-down one of London’s best playgrounds and one of the top free things to do in London with kids. The massive wooden pirate ship, beach area, teepees, and sensory trails keep kids entertained for hours. It’s completely fenced, which means you can actually relax while they play.
Address: Kensington Gardens, London W2 2UH
Opening Times: Daily 6:00 AM – dusk (Diana Memorial Playground: 10:00 AM – various closing times depending on season)
Admission: FREE
Fun Family Walks: Scenic Things to Do in London with Kids
Stroll the South Bank
The South Bank is brilliant for families because there’s always something happening. Street performers, book stalls, food trucks, skateboarders, and incredible views of the Thames. You’re walking, but it doesn’t feel like a slog because there’s constant entertainment. It’s one of those things to do in London with kids that combines exercise with fun.
Address: South Bank, starting from Westminster Bridge to Tower Bridge
Opening Times: Accessible 24/7
Admission: FREE
Discover Street Art at Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel
This legal graffiti tunnel near Waterloo Station is like stepping into a street-art comic book. The walls are covered in colorful, constantly-changing artwork. Kids love the vibrant colors and edgy vibe – it feels completely different from typical London attractions and is one of the more unique things to do in London with kids.
Address: Leake Street, Waterloo, London SE1 7NN
Opening Times: Accessible 24/7
Admission: FREE
Classic British Foods Kids Should Try
Devour Fish & Chips
You can’t visit London without trying proper fish and chips. Crispy battered fish, giant portions of chips (fries), and malt vinegar – it’s a British institution. Places like Poppies (multiple locations) or Golden Union (38 Poland Street, Soho) do it right. Expect to pay around £10-15 per portion. Kids love the novelty and usually polish off their portions.
Fuel Up with a Full English Breakfast
A full English breakfast is hearty, filling, and a fun cultural experience. Eggs, bacon, sausage, beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, toast – it’s enough fuel to power through a busy day of things to do in London with kids. Most cafes and pubs serve it, typically £8-12 per person. Most kids find something they like in the spread.
Try a Traditional Sunday Roast
If you’re in London on Sunday, try a traditional Sunday roast at a pub. The Yorkshire puddings are basically edible cups, which kids find amusing and delicious. The whole meal – roasted meat, vegetables, gravy, potatoes – is comfort food at its finest. Expect £12-18 per adult portion, £6-10 for kids.
Enjoy Afternoon Tea for Kids
Skip the stuffy adult afternoon tea and opt for kid-themed versions. Options include Charlie & the Chocolate Factory tea, Peter Pan tea, and even one at the Science Museum. Tiny sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, and fancy cakes make kids feel special. Prices typically range from £25-40 per child.
Planning Your London Family Adventure: Tips for Things to Do in London with Kids
Transportation: Kids under 11 ride free on London public transport – huge win for your budget. The Tube is efficient but not always stroller-friendly (many stations lack elevators), so be ready to fold and carry.
Timing: School holidays mean bigger crowds and higher prices. Visit during term time if possible for a calmer experience when exploring things to do in London with kids.
Budget hacks: Those free museums are genuinely world-class. Take advantage of them when planning things to do in London with kids on a budget. Pack snacks because museum cafes are pricey. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Pret a Manger offer affordable meal options.
Pacing: Don’t try to do everything. Pick a few highlights from this list of things to do in London with kids, leave time for spontaneous discoveries, and build in downtime. Overtired kids make everyone miserable.
Best areas to stay: Consider hotels near South Kensington (close to museums), Covent Garden (central location), or near a Tube station for easy access to all the things to do in London with kids.
Making the Most of Things to Do in London with Kids
London has something for every type of kid – whether they’re into dinosaurs, art, boats, markets, musicals, or just running around in parks. With so many incredible things to do in London with kids, the secret is mixing educational attractions with pure fun, building in breaks, and not stressing when plans go sideways.
Your kids probably won’t remember every historical fact or museum exhibit, but they’ll remember feeding pelicans in St. James’s Park, walking on the glass floor at Tower Bridge, singing along to West End show tunes on the Tube ride home, and that time you all tried fish and chips in the rain.
That’s the magic of exploring things to do in London with kids – it’s chaotic, exhausting, and absolutely worth every minute. Now go forth and conquer this amazing city with your little crew. You’ve got this!
