Travelling to London with children can be a fantastic experience… provided you’ve got a good plan. The British capital is a huge city, brimming with history, museums and monuments, but it also offers a wealth of activities designed for families.
From interactive museums to parks where children can run around freely, not to mention colourful markets, the Harry Potter studios and boat trips on the Thames. London is a city that amazes the little ones and allows adults to enjoy themselves just as much, if not more.
As local guides who accompany families every day, we’ve put together this guide featuring the best things to do in London with children, to ensure your trip is fun, well-balanced and stress-free.
The quick answer to ‘What to do in London with children?’ would be…
London is an ideal destination for travelling with children thanks to its interactive museums, parks, markets and family-friendly attractions. Some of the best activities include visiting the Natural History Museum, exploring Hyde Park, discovering the world of Harry Potter or going on a family-friendly guided tour.
Must-do activities in London with children
1. Visit the Natural History Museum
It’s one of families’ favourite museums… and it’s no coincidence.
The Natural History Museum looks like something straight out of a film: a stunning building featuring giant dinosaur skeletons, prehistoric animals and interactive areas.
The Natural History Museum looks like something straight out of a film: a stunning building featuring giant dinosaur skeletons, prehistoric animals and interactive areas.
What’s more, entry is free.
2. Explore the Science Museum
Right next to the Natural History Museum is another must-visit for families: the Science Museum.
Here, children can: pilot flight simulators, experiment with electricity and physics, and play in interactive areas designed for learning through play.
The Wonderlab area is particularly recommended, as it’s designed for curious children.
3. Play and relax in London’s parks
One of the great advantages of London for travelling with children is the abundance of huge, safe parks.
The best ones for families:
- Hyde Park: the Diana Memorial Playground; boat hire on the Serpentine Lake.
- Regent’s Park: one of the most beautiful parks; near London Zoo.
- Greenwich Park: spectacular views of the skyline, the perfect place for running and playing.
4. Discover the world of Harry Potter
If your children are Harry Potter fans, London is almost a must-visit.
The most popular things to do are:
- Warner Bros Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter
- visiting King’s Cross and Platform 9¾
- exploring the film locations around the city
These kinds of activities tend to sell out quickly, so it’s best to book in advance.
5. Take a boat trip on the River Thames
After lots of walking around the city, it’s a great idea to see London from the water.
Boats on the Thames offer views of: Tower Bridge; the Tower of London; the London Eye; and the Houses of Parliament.
For children, it’s a fun way to take a break whilst continuing to explore the city.
6. Taking a guided tour designed for families
A tour tailored for children can make all the difference.
Instead of long historical explanations, the guides use: interesting facts, observation games, questions for the children, and amusing anecdotes.
This way, the little ones learn without realising it, and parents enjoy the tour much more.
Frequently asked questions about travelling to London with children
Is London a suitable city for travelling with children?
Yes. London is very family-friendly, with plenty of parks, interactive museums and easy-to-use public transport.
Which museums are free for children in London?
Many of the best museums are free, such as:
- Natural History Museum
- Science Museum
- British Museum
- Tate Modern
How many days do you need to visit London with children?
Ideally, between 3 and 5 days, combining cultural visits with parks and more relaxed activities.
What is the ideal age for travelling to London with children?
London can be enjoyed with children of almost any age, but it’s usually particularly fun from the age of 6–7, when they’re better able to follow stories and enjoy interactive museums.
Conclusion
London is an incredible city to explore as a family. It combines history, culture and fun in a very special way, with activities that fascinate both children and adults alike.
And if you want to make the most of your visit, an excellent option is to take a family tour in English with local guides who know the city inside out and know how to keep the little ones engaged.
This way, you’ll discover London in a fun, dynamic way, full of stories you won’t find in the guidebooks.
