The Best Things to Do in London with Kids: Our Family Guide

The 22 Best Things To Do and See with Kids in London

In the table below, we’ve put together our top 22 attractions for children in London.

To help with planning, we’ve included an approximate duration and the adult ticket price for each attraction. Reduced prices for children are listed in the detailed descriptions further down.

You can also see at a glance which attractions are suitable for little ones (around 3 years old).

Tourist Attractions in London that also Appeal to Children

An Exciting Ride on the London Eye

• Perfect for: Children of all ages
• How much time to allow: 2 hours
• Cost: 29 pounds, children 26 pounds, under 2s free (Fast Track)
• Online ticket: London Eye Ticket

A ride on a Ferris wheel is always fun with children—and when it’s the biggest Ferris wheel in Europe, even better. Add in the stunning views of many famous London sights, and parents enjoy it just as much.

The ride itself lasts 20 minutes, moving at a leisurely pace, giving everyone a unique bird’s-eye view of the city. Next to the London Eye, there’s a playground where kids can burn off extra energy after the ride.

Queues can get long, especially during peak season, so we recommend booking a Fast Track ticket online to skip most of the line.

Children under 2 ride free but still need a ticket, so remember to indicate this when booking. Buggies can be folded and brought into the cabin or left in the buggy parking area at the ticket office. Toilets are located in the basement.

Book your online ticket for the London Eye

Tower Bridge: Discover the Coolest Bridge in the City

• Perfect for: Children of all ages
• How much time to allow: 2 hours
• Cost: 12.80 pounds, children 6.40 pounds, under 5s free
• Online ticket: Tower Bridge Ticket

Tower Bridge is a classic London landmark that also thrills children of all ages.

Up top, two sections of glass flooring let kids peer straight down at the road below—a sure hit for thrill-seekers. If your child loves engineering, don’t miss the Tower Bridge engine room, where they can see how the bridge is raised.

And speaking of that: the bridge still opens for passing ships several times a week. You can check the bridge opening schedule to plan your visit without waiting too long.

Booking your Tower Bridge tickets online in advance is a smart way to skip queues, especially during busy periods.

Book your online ticket for Tower Bridge

Special Spectacle: Changing of the Horse Guards

• Perfect for: Younger children and horse enthusiasts
• How much time to allow: 30 minutes
• Cost: free

The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is a huge spectacle, but it can be quite tiring with small children, as you need to arrive early.

A great alternative for families is the Changing of the Horse Guards. This takes place daily at 11 am (10 am on Sundays) at the Horse Guard Parade square. You can get fairly close with kids, and it’s not as crowded as Buckingham Palace.

It’s not a must-see for everyone, but many children find it exciting and it’s an easy way to experience a classic London ceremony with kids.

Discovering Big and Small Superheroes in London

Taking Selfies with Heroes and Stars at Madame Tussauds

• Perfect for: Older children and teenagers
• How much time to allow: 3 hours
• Cost: 29 pounds, children 26 pounds, under 2s free
• Online ticket: Madame Tussauds Ticket

Madame Tussauds is perfect for older kids and teens who love superheroes, music and movie stars. They can take tons of selfies with lifelike wax figures that often look like they might blink at any moment.

Queues can be long, so we recommend booking your tickets online in advance to skip the line. A visit here is one of the best things to do in London with kids for a fun and interactive experience.

Visit the Famous Platform 9 ¾ from Harry Potter

• Perfect for: Harry Potter fans of all ages
• How much time to allow: 30 minutes
• Cost: free

London is fantastic for Harry Potter fans, big and small. One of the highlights is Platform 9 ¾. The original filming location is at King’s Cross station, between platforms 3 and 4, and there’s also a replica with an authentic sign at the back of the station.

You can snap a souvenir photo and then browse the nearby Harry Potter shop. Expect a crowd, so a little patience is needed if you want a clean photo.

This stop is great for young wizards and witches.

Warner Bros. Studios: Spend a Whole Day in the Footsteps of Harry Potter

• Perfect for: Children who love Harry Potter
• How much time to plan: 1 day
• Cost: approx. 120 pounds per person including transfers
• Book online: Warner Bros. Studios incl. transfer

If your kids are true Harry Potter fans, then Platform 9 ¾ is just the start. A visit to the Warner Bros. Studios is a must.

This is where large parts of the movies were filmed, and you can step right into the original sets and props.

The studios are not in central London but in Watford, about 30 km away. The easiest option is a combined ticket with bus transfer, which takes you straight there without the hassle of navigating trains and buses. It’s one of the best things to do in London with kids if they’re into Harry Potter.

Is it possible to visit the Warner Bros. Studios on your own?

Yes, and it’s slightly cheaper. Including train travel, you’ll spend around 56 pounds per person, but you’ll need to book tickets well in advance (often 1–3 months ahead, depending on the season) on the official Warner Bros. Studios website. Tickets sell out quickly, so don’t leave it last minute.

Exploring London through Play in Search of Paddington Bear

• Perfect for: Young children
• How much time to plan: 1–2 hours
• Cost: free

London isn’t just about Harry Potter – it’s also home to the lovable Paddington Bear.

You’ll find him at Paddington Station on platform 1, suitcase in hand, right under the big clock.

In the Paddington Bear Shop next door, you can pick up a free Pawprint Trail Map, which guides you to Paddington statues around the station and across London.

It’s a fun and free way to keep little ones entertained while parents get to enjoy some sightseeing too – a sweet little thing to do in London with kids.

Museums for Kids in London

Marvel at Dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum

• Perfect for: Kids ages 3 and up
• How much time to plan: 2–4 hours
• Cost: free (but you should still book a ticket)
• Online tickets: Natural History Museum Tickets

The Natural History Museum is a highlight for children of all ages – and adults too.

The star attraction is the dinosaur gallery, where a roaring, life-size T-Rex steals the show.

But there’s plenty more: a massive blue whale skeleton, lifelike models of animals from all over the world, and countless fascinating exhibits.

Entry is free, but book in advance to secure your spot. If you can, avoid weekends – it gets very busy.

Try Out and Experiment at the Science Museum

• Perfect for: Children from age 3
• How much time to plan: 2–4 hours
• Cost: free (but you need to book a ticket)
• Online ticket: Science Museum Tickets

The Science Museum is one of the most exciting family attractions in London.

It has exhibits for all ages, with hands-on stations where kids can play, test, and discover how science works.

There are also planes, steam engines, and vintage cars on display – a real treat for technology fans young and old.

You could easily spend a whole day here, but for families with younger children, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and focus on a few areas. It’s an absolute classic when it comes to what to do in London with kids.

Transport Museum: Discover Buses and Trains

• Perfect for: Children aged 3 and up
• How much time to allow: 2–3 hours
• Cost: 25 pounds, children under 18 free
• Online ticket: Transport Museum Tickets

If your kids are fascinated by London’s iconic red buses or love riding the Tube, then the London Transport Museum is the perfect stop.

Here you’ll find everything that has kept London moving over the centuries: buses, trains, horse-drawn carriages, and taxis.

There’s even a special play zone for children under 7, where little ones can climb, explore, and burn off some energy.

Discover Painting and Art through Play at Tate Modern

• Perfect for: Children aged 3 and up
• How much time to plan: 2–4 hours
• Cost: free

Art with kids? Absolutely. The Tate Modern is not only one of London’s most famous museums, but it also knows how to keep children engaged.

The massive Turbine Hall is the first wow moment. Kids can run down the ramp and explore the huge open space, which often hosts spectacular art installations that are fascinating even for little visitors.

There are also interactive rooms where children can draw on screens and see their artwork projected on the wall. And in the gift shop, a large creative corner with pens and coloring sheets is always a hit.

It’s a wonderful mix: children get to play and explore, while parents can enjoy one of the best museums in London in peace. Definitely a smart pick if you’re wondering what to do in London with kids on a rainy day.

Horniman Museum: Discover Beautiful and Curious Things from Around the World

• Perfect for: Children aged 3 and up
• How much time to allow: 1–4 hours
• Cost: free

The Horniman Museum is one of those hidden gems in London that families often overlook.

It’s part natural history museum, part cultural collection, and it’s full of exhibits designed to spark children’s curiosity. From animal specimens to musical instruments, masks, and dolls, there’s plenty to explore.

Outside the main galleries, you’ll also find a butterfly house and an aquarium.

This isn’t necessarily a must on a first visit, but if you’re looking for fresh things to do in London with kids on a second trip, or if you’re staying in South London, the Horniman is a fantastic option.

Sailing Around the World on the Cutty Sark

• Perfect for: All ages
• How much time to allow: 1–2 hours
• Cost: 22 pounds, children 11 pounds, under 4s free
• Online tickets: Cutty Sark Tickets

The Cutty Sark is a legendary 19th-century sailing ship – once the fastest of its kind. Today, it’s docked in Greenwich and open for visitors.

Climbing aboard is a real adventure for kids. They can imagine what life was like at sea and discover stories of global voyages.

The ship has lots of interactive exhibits that bring history to life: little sailors can steer through a storm or even write a letter home as if they were part of the crew.

The Best Playgrounds in London

Play and Romp at the Diana Memorial Playground

• Perfect for: all ages
• How much time to plan: 1–2 hours
• Cost: free

The Diana Memorial Playground is the most famous playground in London, located right in Kensington Gardens. It’s huge and full of creative play areas.

There are different zones for different ages, so toddlers, older kids, and even teens can enjoy themselves.

Because it’s so popular, the playground is often very busy and sometimes there’s even a line to get in. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to come on a weekday morning. On weekends, it can be overwhelming.

This is definitely a must-see when you’re in London with kids– just be strategic with your timing.

Even More Play at Holland Park Playground

• Perfect for: all ages
• How much time to plan: 1–2 hours
• Cost: free

Holland Park also has a fantastic adventure playground – in fact, we liked it even more than the Diana Memorial Playground.

The equipment here suits all ages, and the park itself is beautiful. Don’t miss the Japanese-style Kyoto Garden, which is one of our favorite London insider tips.

There’s also a toddler playground, a snack bar, and public toilets close by.

A trip to Holland Park can be easily combined with a walk through Notting Hill, making it one of the best things to do in London with kids if you want a mix of playtime and sightseeing.

Special Experiences with Children in London

Marvel at Magicians, Acrobats and Clowns in Covent Garden

• Perfect for: all ages
• How much time to plan: 1–2 hours
• Cost: free

Covent Garden Market is a real family favorite in London, though many visitors don’t realize how much kids love it.

Throughout the day, street performers gather crowds with magic tricks, acrobatics, and comedy shows.

Our highlights were a hilarious Charlie Chaplin act, a magician who had kids giggling with amazement, and a group of acrobats pulling off breathtaking stunts.

Discover Life-Size Dinosaur Figures in Crystal Palace Park

• Perfect for: all ages
• How much time to plan: about 4 hours
• Cost: free

A real hidden gem for little dinosaur fans is the Dinosaur Court in Crystal Palace Park.

Here you can wander among life-size dinosaur statues that have been around since 1854. Even though they’re historic, they’re still just as fascinating for kids (and adults).

The only downside is the longer journey – it takes around 45 minutes by public transport to reach the park in South London. But if your kids love dinosaurs, it’s worth the trip.

Take a Break from the Hustle and Bustle in Hyde Park

• Perfect for: all ages
• How much time to plan: 2–4 hours
• Cost: free

If you’re looking for a calmer pace and need a break from sightseeing, Hyde Park is the perfect spot.

There are two big playgrounds, plenty of open meadows, and lots of space to run around. For a special treat, you can rent a paddle boat and float across the Serpentine Lake.

It’s one of the best things to do in London with kids when you just want to slow down, recharge, and escape the city noise for a while.

Climbing Onto the Roof of the O2 Arena

• Perfect for: Children aged 8+
• How much time to plan: 4 hours
• Cost: 37 pounds
• Online tickets: O2 Arena climbing tour

Looking for a real highlight in London with older kids? Then you should definitely check out the Up at the O2 climbing tour!

Together you’ll climb up the roof of the huge arena – and don’t worry, it’s totally safe. Kids and adults are strapped in with harnesses and guides lead the way, so no one has to be afraid of heights here.

The climb is surprisingly easy, and once you’re on top you’ll enjoy an amazing view of London. This is the kind of thing to do that they’ll remember for years.

To join, kids must be at least 8 years old and at least 1.30 meters tall. A great mix of action and sightseeing in one.

Attend a Soccer Match

• Perfect for: Children aged 10 and over
• How much time to plan: 4 hours
• Cost: 100 pounds and more
• Online tickets: Football tickets in London

If you’re in London with older kids who are soccer mad, then going to a match is one of the best things to do in London.

The Premier League is home to some of the biggest names in football and the atmosphere is incredible. Top clubs in the city include Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham, but there are also many smaller teams where tickets might be easier to get.

Be prepared though: tickets are expensive. Prices often start around 100 pounds and can easily double depending on the match. We’ve had good experiences booking through Sportsevents365 – they usually have tickets available even at short notice.

Discover London from the Boat

• Perfect for: all ages
• How much time to allow: 1-2 hours
• Cost: from 14 pounds

A Thames boat trip is a classic and still one of the best things to do in London with kids. The river runs right through the city and passes by so many famous landmarks.

The good thing is: cruises are usually not too long, so kids don’t get bored. If your family is into a bit more adventure, you can even try a high-speed RIB ride.

Jetting through the City on a Double-Decker Bus

• Perfect for: all ages
• Cost of public bus: 1.75 pounds per journey
• Cost of hop-on hop-off bus: from £49 for 24 hours, children £29, under 5s free
• Online ticket: Hop-on/Hop-off ticket

Riding a red double-decker bus is not just transport – it’s an attraction in itself.

Try to sit upstairs right at the front. Kids love the view from there, and it makes even a short ride really exciting. Our own son’s favorite memory after a week in the city? “The buses and the Ferris wheel.” Enough said!

Besides the normal buses, a hop-on hop-off bus tour in London is also a great idea with kids. We recommend Tootbus – they even offer a special children’s audio guide, and little ones up to age 5 travel free.

Get your hop-on hop-off bus tickets here

Where to Stay in London with Kids

Unfortunately, staying overnight in London is not cheap. Rooms are often smaller and costlier than in many other cities, which can be tricky for families.

Still, there are some really good family-friendly hotels that make a stay with kids much easier. We’ve collected our favorites here, so you can find the right one for your trip.

Our Personal Hotel Tip with Children in London

We stayed at the Wilde Aparthotel by Staycity with a toddler (3 years) and a baby and it worked out perfectly.

The rooms all have a large double bed and a sofa bed, and baby cribs are available on request. There’s also a small kitchenette if you want to cook something yourself – very handy when traveling with kids.

The value for money is excellent, especially compared to many other hotels in London. There are three Wilde Aparthotels in the city.

We chose the one in Paddington. It’s a little further from the main sights, but still very well connected by tube and bus. The neighborhood itself is lively with plenty of restaurants, and it’s a fun bonus that Paddington Bear “lives” just around the corner.

Wilde Aparthotels Paddington
Wilde Aparthotels Covent Garden
Wilde Aparthotels Tower Bridge

More recommended places to stay in London

Cheap family hotels

Lyall Apartment Hotel: Budget-friendly apartments with space for two adults and two kids. A bit outside the center, but with good train connections.

Clarendon Hotel: Affordable option in Greenwich with family rooms and good access to central London.

Stylish family hotels

Sea Containers London: Stylish, modern hotel right on the Thames. Some rooms come with two double beds – perfect for families.

Vancouver Studios: Charming boutique hotel in a great location with family-sized rooms.

Classic family hotels

Novotel London Bridge: Classic family hotel with spacious rooms for 4–5 people. Good central location for sightseeing.

Park Plaza County Hall: Excellent central location with family studios that even have their own kitchen.

Useful Tips for Traveling to London with Kids

Finally, here are a few practical tips for traveling to London with kids that will make your trip a lot smoother.

Which tickets do children need for Local transport in London?

Children up to 11 years old travel free on public transport in London. From 11 onwards they need their own ticket.

On the tube, use the wider gates marked with the blue wheelchair symbol. They stay open longer and make it easier to pass through with kids in tow.

Avoid rush hour if you can: the trains get packed in the morning and late afternoon. Many lines are old and don’t have air conditioning, so it can get very hot and uncomfortable. Not every child enjoys that – and neither do most adults.

Is it easy to get around London with a baby carriage or buggy?

Getting around with a buggy in London can be tricky. Sidewalks are usually fine, but public transport isn’t always stroller-friendly.

Buses generally allow buggies, but it’s not always comfortable. On the tube, less than half of the stations are step-free. Often you’ll face escalators or long flights of stairs. Where lifts do exist, they don’t usually take you directly from street to platform, but require several changes.

In short: it’s doable with a buggy, but not always convenient.

How much time should you plan for London with children?

No matter how long you stay, it never feels like enough. We spent over a week in London with kids and still didn’t see everything.

Keep in mind that distances in London are big and moving around the city takes time. Plan your days loosely and don’t try to squeeze in too much.

Is breastfeeding in public a problem in London?

We found breastfeeding in public was completely fine in London. Nobody gave us odd looks, and in many museums and attractions there were even signs explicitly welcoming breastfeeding.

Where can you eat well with children in London?

London is a fantastic place to eat with kids. Most restaurants are child-friendly and have high chairs available.

The variety of food is unmatched – you’ll find everything from quick bites to international cuisine.

Two restaurant chains we highly recommend for families:

• Dishoom – an amazing Indian restaurant with six branches in London. They have a children’s menu, plus coloring books and pencils for little ones. It’s one of our absolute favorites.
• Brewdog – a British craft beer brand with 24 restaurants in London. Great burgers (including kids’ options) and coloring activities make it a fun and relaxed place to eat with children.

Is a London Pass worthwhile with children?

There are several sightseeing passes in London that can save both money and time – and all of them have discounted versions for kids.

Depending on your plans, a different pass might make sense, but for most families the London Pass is the best choice.

Our Conclusion on London with Kids

London is an amazing destination for families. From parks and playgrounds to exciting museums and unique attractions, there are so many things to do in London with kids.

Yes, accommodation and some attractions can be pricey, but there are also plenty of free things to do and public transport is inexpensive.

For us, London was a fantastic experience as a family – and we’re already looking forward to our next trip.