London often gets a bad reputation for being overly expensive and not child-friendly. However, do not be fooled by these misleading myths. London can be a fantastic family vacation destination, as there are a number of great children’s outings that will keep the youngsters excited and engaged. These are our top 10 things to do in London with kids for your next travel adventure.
Top 10 things to do in London with Kids
Here are the top 10 fun and free adventures for families in London.
1. Museum of London Docklands
The museum is located within a 200-year-old warehouse and shares the story of London’s history as a port to all guests. Best of all, there is the Mudlarks play area, which is specifically designed for children under 12. The area is designed like the London docks, so the kids will enjoy weighing cargo or pretending to drive a London bus. Admission is free to the museum and it is easily accessible by taking the DLR train.
2. Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
Families can watch the Changing of the Guard from several locations, including right outside the Palace, at one of the gates, outside Green Park, or from the Victoria Memorial. Make sure to get there early to snag a good spot. The ceremonies occur daily at Horse Guards at 11 am (or 10 am on Sunday) and 4 pm. Take a picnic lunch to enjoy while watching, as the ceremony lasts about 45 minutes.
3. Diana Memorial Playground
This large outdoor playground is located in Kensington Gardens adjacent to Kensington Palace, where Diana Prince of Wales once lived. It is a great play area for children up to 12 years old, with its large pirate ship for climbing, swings, slides, and sensory trail. Safety is put first; no adults can enter without children and the staff is always on site.
4. Peter Pan Statue in Kensington Gardens
Near the Diana Memorial Playground, this bronze statue of the iconic figure is a site every child loves to see. The location was chosen specifically by the author of Peter Pan, J.M. Barrie, who lived close by and used the park for inspiration. Make a stop here to take pictures of the whole family with Peter Pan, standing atop a tree trunk with squirrels, rabbits, and mice.
5. Natural History Museum
Children, and sometimes their parents too, tend to be fascinated by dinosaurs, which are eternally popular at the Natural History Museum. Also, in the Darwin Centre, families can watch see real scientists working. In the Investigate Science Centre, adults and children alike will love getting the chance to handle the animals, plants, and other treasures stored within.
6. The Wallace Collection
This hidden gem is located just off the busy Oxford Street. It is the home of many stunning artworks, as well as a collection of armory that will thrill children who are in the knight and dragon phase. The gallery includes audio guides, fun treasure trails to collect, and interactive tours for the whole family.
7. Pelican Feeding at St. James’s Park
Every day at around 2:30 pm, the pelicans of St. James’s Park are fed fish. Head to the opposite end towards Buckingham Palace and see the pelicans being fed behind Duck Island Cottage. It is fun for the family to watch, although it lasts only five to ten minutes. However, afterwards, families can have some outdoor fun time in the park.
8. Coram’s Fields and Foundling Museum
The unique seven-acre of Coram’s Fields is a great spot to let the children run around safely in central London. Nearby, the Foundling Museum is always free for children and their parents, while boasting tremendous family fun activities. For example, families can dress up a foundling or create their own hospital scene. The opportunities are endless.
9. Mudchute Park and Farm
One of the largest city farms in the city, it includes 34 acres of open parkland. Families can view and get pictures of pigs, sheep, goats, donkeys, llamas, chickens, ducks, turkeys, and many more. Children can participate in horse riding, petting farm animals, and other educational learning experiences too.
Also Read: Top 10 things to know about transport in London
10. Kid’s Zone at National Army Museum
Located off of King’s Road in Chelsea, the National Army Museum includes a very popular indoor play area for children under 10. Activities include climbing to the upper level, sliding down the spiral slide, riding on the rocking horses, and whipping up some food in the play kitchen. The rest of the museum has many interactive tours to help the little ones learn while they enjoy exploring.
Tell us what your Top 10 things to do in London with Kids are in the comments below!
