London makes for a brilliant family vacation because it doesn't just offer world-class sights—it makes them genuinely fun for kids. Children are treated to history and culture in ways that are interactive and engaging. Getting around the city is an adventure in itself. Kids will love riding on the iconic red double-decker buses and exploring the famous Underground, known as the Tube. Despite being a bustling metropolis, London is packed with beautiful parks and green spaces. These provide the perfect break from sightseeing, allowing kids to run wild and burn off energy. From feeding the ducks in St. James's Park to playing on the pirate ship at the Diana Memorial Playground, there's always a place to relax and enjoy some fresh air. Continue reading for the top ten things to do with kids in London.
Tips for Visiting London With Young Children
What makes London so great for families? For starters, many of its world-class museums are completely free to enter. This means you can drop in for a quick visit without feeling like you need to see everything, which is a big win with young kids. These museums are often designed with children in mind, featuring hands-on and interactive exhibits that keep little ones engaged. Getting around London with a family is also surprisingly simple thanks to its efficient public transport system. The Tube and bus network makes it easy to navigate, and open-top bus tours are a fantastic way to see the city's famous landmarks without tiring out little legs.
Man tours offer special commentary just for kids. When it's time to eat, London's food scene has something for everyone. You'll find plenty of family-friendly restaurants, and many pubs welcome children during the day. With its free attractions, engaging entertainment, and beautiful parks, London makes it easy for families to have a memorable and fun-filled trip without overspending or over-scheduling. Keep reading for tips on navigating London with kids of all ages.
(1) Take a spin on the London Eye.
Instead of a typical amusement park ride, the London Eye is a gentle, awe-inspiring journey. Its massive scale alone captures a child's imagination, and the slow, smooth rotation makes them feel as if they're floating above the city in a giant glass bubble. While they're captivated by the feeling of being so high up, kids are also getting a fun, 30-minute lesson in London's geography. You can point out landmarks like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and the River Thames. It's the perfect amount of time to keep them engaged without getting restless.
(2) Catch the Changing of the Guard Ceremony at Buckingham Palace.
Watching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is a fun and captivating experience for kids, combining history, music, and a lot of pomp. Children are immediately drawn to the bright and unusual spectacle. The soldiers' iconic red tunics and tall, bearskin hats stand out against the backdrop of the palace, and the sight of dozens of guards marching in perfect, disciplined unison is a mesmerizing sight.
The military band adds to the excitement. The sound of the drums and brass instruments marching in sync with the guards' footsteps makes the whole scene feel like a real-life show. While the crowds can be a bit overwhelming, the ceremony is a memorable experience if you prepare for it. A good tip for families is to watch the guards as they march to the palace from Wellington Barracks, which often offers a better and less crowded view than waiting at the palace gates.
(3) Explore the Tower of London.
For an unforgettable family outing, the Tower of London is a top choice. While you might think of it as a serious historical monument, it's actually an exciting, real-life castle that captivates children's imaginations with its dramatic and sometimes spooky past. One of the best parts of the experience is the tour led by a Yeoman Warder (also known as a "Beefeater"). These incredible guides are master storytellers who bring the castle's history to life. They'll entertain kids with funny, yet historically accurate, tales of famous prisoners, royal intrigue, and even a few gory details that children always find fascinating. Kids can immerse themselves in the castle's world. They can walk along the ancient battlements, climb the spiraling stone staircases of the towers, and pretend to be a knight, a prisoner, or a king. It's a hands-on way for them to explore a genuine medieval fortress.
(4) Spend the afternoon in Hyde Park.
Hyde Park is an excellent choice for a family day out, and children of all ages are sure to have a great time. Far from being just a large patch of grass, this expansive park is packed with attractions specifically designed for kids. The star attraction for families is undoubtedly the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground. Built around an impressive wooden pirate ship, this adventure playground is a paradise for little ones, complete with a sensory trail, teepees, and a mini-beach to spark their imagination. For a fun activity on the water, families can head to the Serpentine lake to rent a paddle boat or rowboat, offering a new vantage point from which to see the park. And for those visiting during the winter holidays, Hyde Park transforms into Winter Wonderland, a huge festive event complete with amusement park rides, an ice-skating rink, and a bustling Christmas market that kids absolutely adore.
(5) Ride the Tube to destinations throughout the city.
For kids, a journey on the London Underground is much more than just a ride—it's an integral part of the adventure. The thrill begins the moment the train descends beneath the city streets, transforming a simple trip into a magical descent into a secret world. Part of what makes the experience so captivating is the famous Tube map, a masterpiece of design by Harry Beck. Its colorful, winding lines captivate children's imaginations, turning navigation into an exciting game. Kids love trying to follow the lines and find their next station, treating the map like a real-life puzzle. Ultimately, the Tube is the very first step of a fun-filled day. It's the exciting vessel that takes them to must-see sights like the Tower of London or the London Eye. Because of this, the journey itself becomes a memorable part of the excitement, making the ride as enjoyable as the destination.
(6) Take a cruise down the Thames River.
Watching London from the water is a fantastic and unique experience for kids. A Thames river cruise offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a great alternative to the usual sightseeing grind. Rather than dealing with crowded streets, children get to enjoy a comfortable ride while iconic landmarks float by. They'll love seeing famous sights like the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, and the Tower of London from a brand-new angle. One of the biggest thrills is sailing directly underneath historic bridges, with passing under the majestic Tower Bridge being an unforgettable highlight.
The journey is also educational in the most fun way possible. The tour guides often captivate young audiences with entertaining commentary, sharing funny stories and fascinating historical tidbits that are more like thrilling tales than boring lessons. Most importantly, the cruise provides a welcome break for tired little feet. It lets kids rest, grab a snack, and recharge, all while continuing to soak in the incredible sights of the city.
(7) Go on the Warner Brother Studio Tour for The Making of Harry Potter.
Located just outside London in Leavesden, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter is an absolute must for any fan of the wizarding world. This is the very place where all eight of the films were brought to life, offering a truly immersive experience. You can step directly onto authentic sets, get an up-close look at the actual props and costumes used in the movies, and uncover the secrets behind the magical special effects. Since the tour is self-guided, you're free to explore at your own pace.
While the average visit lasts about three and a half hours, there's no rush—you can stay as long as you wish until the studio closes. During your visit, you'll have the chance to walk down the iconic cobbled street of Diagon Alley, exploring storefronts like Ollivanders and Gringotts Wizarding Bank. You'll also get to enter the famous Great Hall where Hogwarts students gathered. And of course, no trip would be complete without stopping by the Backlot Cafe to try a famous Butterbeer.
(8) Save the Big Ben tour for when the kids are older.
Following a significant conservation effort, visitors can now go inside the Elizabeth Tower, more famously known as Big Ben. However, due to the demanding nature of the tour, it's not a suitable activity for everyone, especially younger children. The guided tour, which lasts about 90 minutes, involves a climb of 334 steps up a narrow, spiral staircase. As you ascend, you'll uncover the history of the tower and get a rare glimpse into the intricate clock mechanism.
The highlight of the tour is standing right beside the massive Big Ben bell when it chimes on the hour, an experience so loud that ear defenders are provided. For teenagers with an interest in engineering, history, or just seeking a truly one-of-a-kind adventure, this tour is an incredible opportunity. The challenging climb and the chance to witness the giant clock's inner workings up close make for an unforgettable and rewarding experience. Unlike simply viewing the landmark from the street, this tour offers a hands-on, active way to connect with a piece of history, providing a true sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top.
(9) Set aside a day to spend in Piccadilly Circus.
Piccadilly Circus is a famous and bustling junction in London's West End, celebrated for its vibrant digital billboards and the well-known statue of Eros. While the area itself can be a bit overwhelming, there are plenty of fun, kid-friendly activities just a short walk away. Often compared to New York City's Times Square, this public space in the City of Westminster is a hub of activity. At its center stands the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, a popular meeting spot topped with a winged archer statue officially named the "Angel of Christian Charity," though most people mistakenly call it Eros.
A short stroll from the Circus leads to the flagship LEGO Store in Leicester Square, a paradise for any fan. More than just a shop, it’s an immersive experience filled with massive, intricate LEGO models of London landmarks and interactive building stations. As the heart of London’s Theatreland, the area also offers a magical opportunity for a family outing. Many West End musicals, such as The Lion King and Matilda, have matinee shows that are a big hit with kids.
(10) Explore London on a double-decker red bus.
Why do kids love London's iconic double-decker buses? It's all about the experience. The main draw is the incredible view from the top deck. Kids get to look down on the bustling streets, seeing over cars and people, which makes them feel like they're in a special, elevated world. Riding one of these bright red buses is also a classic London experience in itself.
As a famous symbol of the city, a ride on a double-decker bus is a must-do for many young visitors, making them feel like they're truly part of the city's culture. For families, the convenience of tourist bus tours is a big plus. With their "hop-on, hop-off" service, these buses make it easy to see all the major sights without the hassle of a taxi or the Tube, and the fun, kid-friendly commentary adds to the adventure.
