trip to london with toddler

The ultimate 3-day itinerary for visiting London with kids

Ever since my 5-year-old son caught a glimpse of Big Ben in one of his books, he's been utterly fascinated by London' s iconic clock tower. His curiosity soon spread to everything London-related, and he would ask question after question about the British capital.

When it came time to plan our next family vacation, the decision was obvious. We were going to London, and what's more, we let him take the reins in planning the itinerary.

The result? Three days of kid-filled fun (that I thoroughly enjoyed too). From the grandeur of the changing of the guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace to the whimsical Peppa Pig bus tour, our trip hit the highlights from a kid's perspective.

So, whether you have a little one obsessed with Big Ben or are simply looking for a family-friendly destination, London offers many attractions to delight children and adults alike. Here's my three-day guide to help you make the most of your family vacation in this vibrant city.

Day 1: Iconic landmarks and 360-degree views

A ride on the london underground.

If there's one thing I've learned from traveling with a little one, it's to keep the days manageable, especially the first one. So, after landing in the morning, we made our way to the hotel — Hotel Cafe Royal — on the Underground (an activity my son loved) to drop off our bags and have lunch. I'd recommend eating at the hotel or very close by to limit the amount of transit time after what was already a big day of travel.

Once we fueled up, we made our way to the London Eye, where we had 3 p.m. tickets. Buying the fast pass (which we did) allows you to skip the long line (and avoid a meltdown) and get on the famous Ferris wheel quickly. Once on, it's a 30-minute ride where you can see many of the city's highlights. It's a great way to start the trip with a literal overview of London and doesn't require any physical effort.

After taking in the London skyline, we took a five-minute walk across Westminster Bridge to fulfill my son's dream of seeing Big Ben. And his desire couldn't have come at a better time since the famous clock only recently opened after several years of restoration. Although going inside is only available to U.K. residents, we timed our stroll at the base of the clock at 4 p.m. to hear the famous bell ring (it goes off every hour).

Dinner at The Dorchester

We finished up the day with dinner at The Dorchester. The luxury landmark recently underwent a massive renovation, including The Promenade restaurant perched in the center of the hotel. Each seating area was outfitted with a cozy couch, making it the perfect spot to unwind for the day. They had an incredible kids menu with plenty of options, even for the pickiest eaters.

Then it was back to the hotel for an early bedtime and a good night's rest to prep for the action-filled next day.

Day 2: Trains, tea, toys and tradition

Postal museum.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel (I often recommend booking a hotel package that includes breakfast to make it easy), we set out for our first activity of the day. Along with loving Big Ben, my son is also a train fanatic. So, we got 10 a.m. tickets for a lesser-known attraction: the Mail Rail exhibit at the Postal Museum.

This off-the-beaten-path museum dives into London's fascinating postal history with an interactive exhibit that includes a ride on an actual underground train. We wove through the old tunnels, making stops along the way where we learned about the old underground railway system that once moved the city's mail. Although slightly claustrophobic at times (the train is very tiny), it was very entertaining for both kids and adults. A postal-themed play space for kids under 8 features a small-scale village with roads, structures, trams and tunnels.

Changing of the guard

Then it was off to witness the changing of the guard around 11 a.m. We opted to take a taxi to cut down on travel time and made it to the iconic ceremony outside Buckingham Palace. While we couldn't get up close to the gates, plenty of British pomp and pageantry along the Mall entertained my son for a little while.

We kept watching as we made our way to St. James's Park playground, which was just a few minutes' walk from the palace. My son loved climbing on the rocks, walking across the mini bridge and digging in the sandbox. We could see more of the changing of the guard parade from the playground.

Afternoon tea

As you can imagine, we were hungry at this point, and my son requested afternoon tea while in London. We chose The Guardsman as it was just a few minutes' walk and was supposed to be one of the top spots for the quintessentially British experience. We chowed down on sandwiches and pastries, and they gave my son a stuffed bear dressed as a beefeater (a perfect souvenir for what we had just witnessed).

With some renewed energy, we had one last outing for the day. Of course, my son also requested we visit a toy store in town. And there's no better one than Hamleys. It's one of the world's largest and oldest toy stores, with seven floors of gadgets and gizmos. It can be overwhelming as people are dancing, clowns are blowing bubbles and drones are zipping around, but my son had a blast looking at everything. He settled on a small truck as his toy before we returned to the hotel.

Dinner at Cake & Bubbles

With such a busy morning, we decided to spend the afternoon and evening at the hotel. We made it back for the children's hours (4-6 p.m.) at the pool and took a little late-afternoon dip before an early dinner at Cake & Bubbles (attached to the hotel). While the family-friendly restaurant is known for its desserts (the cheesecake is a must), it also has a delicious savory menu of small bites. We enjoyed burgers, pasta, salad and some dessert for a sweet ending to a fun-filled day.

Day 3: Playgrounds and Peppa Pig

The diana memorial playground.

My son always wants to check out the playground scene no matter what city we visit. And one in London is a must-see: the Diana Memorial Playground. After our hotel breakfast and a morning swim (we wanted to keep the morning low-key), we hopped on a local double-decker bus (another request of my son) and made our way to the far edge of Kensington Gardens.

Next to the late Princess Diana's former Kensington Palace home, the Diana Memorial Playground is inspired by the story of Peter Pan. The centerpiece is a large wooden pirate ship surrounded by a sandy beach and "buried treasure." Other features include sensory trails, various toys and play sculptures, all set within a carefully landscaped area. My son loved climbing into the crow's nest and zipping down the hidden slides.

Peppa Pig bus tour

After some playtime, it was time for one final kid-approved activity: the Peppa Pig bus tour. Since my son requested afternoon tea and a double-decker bus ride on the trip and is a fan of the "Peppa Pig" cartoon, I was elated when I learned an option included all three.

The whimsical tour involved driving around the city in a historic double-decker-bus-turned-restaurant seeing the major sites (including Big Ben again) while nibbling on mini pizzas and scones. The kids were served hot chocolate in cups with lids, while the adults had a choice of teas. Individual screens played "Peppa Pig" clips that described the historic sites we drove past. And an onboard emcee played games and sang songs with the kids whenever we were stuck in traffic.

Dinner at the Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane

After the tour, we had some downtime at the hotel before making our way to the final dinner of the trip. Since everything else had been kid-focused, my husband and I opted for a nicer dinner at Pavyllon in the Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane.

Although geared toward adults, the staff was incredibly accommodating and had a kids menu available. They even brought my son's food out first, so he didn't have to wait. And they rushed our dishes, too, so we could have a speedier meal that aligned better with a 5-year-old's patience. We brought a deck of cards and played War throughout dinner, which entertained my son thoroughly.

After dinner, we returned to the hotel for our final night before taking a flight out the following day.

Where to stay

When planning a family stay in London, a plethora of options cater to the needs of both adults and children. For families, areas like South Kensington, Covent Garden and Westminster are ideal due to their proximity to major attractions like the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum and the London Eye.

Hotel Cafe Royal

We opted for Hotel Cafe Royal (part of the Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection ) in Piccadilly Circus. It is near multiple modes of transportation to reach anywhere in the city and within walking distance of numerous attractions, including the Hamleys toy store. What's more, it's incredibly family-friendly. The rooms are spacious, and the property even worked with a former royal nanny to curate the family programming. So, we had a tent with toys set up in the room, and there was a white-noise machine ready to help us all get a good night's sleep. Plus, if you book through the Chase travel portal , you get daily breakfast, a complimentary upgrade and a $100 property credit.

Other properties to consider

But there are plenty of other family-friendly options too. The Hilton London Bankside (available for around $267 or 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night) has a host of family offerings like connecting rooms and an indoor pool. Kids eat free at Holiday Inn London — Oxford Circus, with rooms available for around $328 or 39,000 IHG rewards points a night.

Planning a trip to London? Check out some of our other stories and planning tips:

• 27 of the best free things to do in London
• The complete guide to flying to London on points and miles
• 7 London hotels used by actual royalty
• The best hotels in London
• Chic but a bit cramped: A review of The London Edition

London With Kids Itinerary 2-3 Days & Tips For Planning a Trip to London With Kids!

Categories England , Itinerary , London , U.K

I don’t want to brag too much, but this exact 2 day London itinerary with kids that I did recently really was perfect! We fitted a lot in with just a weekend in London with children including child activities in London, lots of general London sightseeing activities and different modes of transport to save their little legs, and reduce the moaning!

A few weeks ago, along with my husband, I took my stepsons down South from Manchester to London for a weekend in London! I lived in London for 2.5 years back in 2016-2018 but this was my first time travelling to London with kids , and, it was the boy’s first time in London.

So, keep reading to see how this past Londoner used all her knowledge of activities in London and London transport to have the perfect trip to London with children! And the lessons we learnt to help you visit London with kids!

London With Kids

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Is London good for families?

London is a big and busy city and I understand that some people may wonder if London is good for families? And should you visit London with kids?

But, London is a great city for families and children! Yes, it’s a big city to get around and the public transport may seem intimidating at first but with a bit of planning you can work out the public transport and there are so many activities for children in London and lots of fun things for kids in London.

If you have a baby or young children in a pushchair, most of the Tubes, Trains & Buses in London are pushchair friendly with lifts and ramps. You can check this in advance here on Transport for London and plan travelling to London with kids around this.

Is London safe for children to visit?

In some areas like around the London Eye and Notting Hill Market on a Saturday it might get too busy and crowded for children but there are very rarely huge and dangerous crowds in London and busy places can easily be avoided.

Plus, there are so many parks and green open spaces in London for children to run around freely and safely.

Like any city, you have to be careful of yourself, your possessions and your children but overall, London is a very safe city which makes it comfortable to visit with children and you have to think just how many children and families live in London and enjoy living there!

Planning a trip to London with kids

When it came to planning our trip to London with children, I knew I wanted us to see all of the top places to see in London like Tower Bridge, Big Ben, London Eye and Buckingham Palace.

I also knew these Dinosaur loving boys would love the Natural History Museum , and my husband wisely pointed out that we needed an activity within our trip that meant we could sit down for a while and take a break, but a break where the boys don’t get bored !

There are SO many things to do with kids in London and London is SO big that no matter what trip you are on but especially a trip with children who have a limited capacity to be on their feet all day and limited interests in all things, you have to prioritise and accept there’s no way you’ll see all of London and do everything!

Things to do in London with kids

Is your priority Dinosaurs in London like it was for us? All of the museums? Being on a budget and visiting the free places in London ? Going iconic sightseeing with children in London? Visiting as many Harry Potter locations as you can? Etc

Getting around London with kids

Although I can walk all day around London, I knew their little legs would ache after a while so we made sure to use public transport as much as we could and to make the transport fun !

We did a great job of that using different tube lines where the trains and experience differ (the District Overground Line is very different from the Piccadilly Underground Line for example) and using the Uber boats along the Thames which was a much cheaper way of seeing the Thames from a boat than paying for a guided tour!

Use TFL’s website for journey planning!

Do you pay for a child on the tube?

Beacuse this was my first time in London with children, I had no idea whether you had to pay for children on the tube, however a bonus is that children up to 11 years old travel for free on the Underground Tube, Overground Lines and DLR with a paying adult.

So, we only had to pay for the younger kids when we went on the Uber Boat on this London itinerary with kids and we paid at the machines at the dock so we didn’t need to pre-plan anything here.

Accommodation for families in London

We did find it hard to find decent accommodation in London for all 5 of us that wasn’t crazy expensive.

We booked this 2 bedroom apartment in Fulham which was described as ‘lux’ but wasn’t luxury really, it was a bit tired and expensive for the quality but that’s just London unfortunately and we didn’t spend long there anyway so it was ok!

I would recommend looking on Airbnb or Booking.com for apartments rather than hotels as if you need more than 1 hotel room, the cost will add up!

I also suggest staying outside of the centre because prices are lower outside of central London, but also, families in London live a bit further out too.

Fulham Broadway was a great place to be, it’s just on the end of zone 2 and is easy to get the tube into the centre without being right in the centre like in Soho or Covent Garden for example.

Some apartments for families in London you could look at are:

• Luxury 2 bed apartment with SW facing terrace
• Elegant 2 bedrooms apt in Chelsea with patio
• Redcliffe Apartments Kensington & Chelsea
• Modern & Stylish Apartment in Earl’s Court with Huge Private Terrace
• For more of my London posts to help you plan your trip see:
• 3 Day London Itinerary – How To See All Of London in 3 Days!
• 4 Day London Itinerary – How To See So Much Of London in 4 Days!
• Things To Do in London When it Rains, That Are Inside!
• How To Walk from Tower Bridge to the London Eye Along The River Thames!

2 Day London Itinerary with Kids

Here is our 2 day London itinerary with kids. We drove down to London on Friday night so we didn’t see anything and started our 2 days in London with children fresh on Saturday morning! If you have 3 days in London with kids, I’ll give you some extra recommendations of what you can do to fill 3 days at the end.

Day 1 in London with Kids

Here is a quick overview of our first day in London which was our real London sightseeing with children day .

We definitely saw a lot of the top places in London to see and covered a lot of ground. We were tired at the end but not too bad! (Bear in mind my stepsons are 6, 9 and 15 years old so not super young!)

Start – Tower Hill Tube Station

Walk Back and Forth over Tower Bridge

Get Thames Clipper / Uber Thames from Tower Hill Pier to Greenwich Pier

• Walk up to Greenwich Park Viewpoint
• Go to Greenwich Planetarium (or another museum of your choice in Greenwich)
• Lunch in Greenwich

Get Thames Clipper / Uber Thames from Greenwich Pier to Westminster Pier

See the London Eye, Westminster and Big Ben from Westminister Bridge

• Walk to and through St James Park
• Visit Buckingham Palace

Tube from Green Park to Leicester Square

• Walk around Chinatown and Leicester Square
• Dinner in Leicester Square / Soho area

I wanted to start the trip on a wow factor so I thought, let’s start at Tower Bridge so we can take in the bridge, the Thames, Tower of London, and the Shard all in one go!

Tower Hill tube station is well connected to the rest of London so I recommend starting your day here too, or if it’s easier, you could go to London Bridge station and walk to Tower Bridge from here.

ALTERNATIVE IDEA: We did go to Greenwich next as we had something booked but had we not, and getting tickets for the Tower of London for a visit would have been a great idea!

A Thames boat ride was on my list of things to do in London with kids because I thought it’s a great way to see a lot of the iconic sights without walking.

I think, if you are from overseas, a guided Thames boat tour with audio like this might be a nice idea, or if its pouring with rain and you’re looking for things to do in London in the rain, then a guided tour will pass more time,

But a great money saver is to take the Uber Boats , also known as the Thames Clippers as they are cheaper per person than a full guided Thames boat trip and the boats are still really nice inside and you can sit inside, outside, get refreshments and walk around.

Greenwich & Greenwich Planetarium

We went to Greenwich on the Thames Clipper because we had tickets booked for the Greenwich Planetarium which these space loving boys really enjoyed, but Greenwich is a great place to visit even if you aren’t going here or don’t have anything booked.

Greenwich Park is huge and offers great views of London. It’s definitely one of the best parks in London for kids.

There are a few museums in Greenwich to visit, great are especially great if your kids are into boats and ships! The Royal Observatory is a great place if your children are learning about time and space, and there are lots of places to eat in Greenwich too!

ALTERNATIVE IDEA: Get tickets for Cutty Sark Museum which is the boat right next to Greenwich Pier, go inside the National Maritime Museum, or have a picnic in Greenwich Park if the weather is good!

I have to fully recommend the Peter Harrison Planetarium in Greenwich though and seeing a Planetarium show there!

We went to see a show about Mars although they have a few different shows which you can view here and not only was the show really educational and interesting but the theatre you watch it in is really unique because the seats tip back and the show projected into the dome above you .

This was our activity in London for kids where they could sit down around lunchtime, since a lot of Londons attractions involve being on your feet but it was also interactive and education for them.

We got some lunch from Greenwich Market and then queued up to get back on the Thames Clipper boat f rom Greenwich Pier to Westminster Pier . This was another great way to see the Thames, rest our legs, and arrive at THE most iconic place in London!

The area around London Eye, Westminster, Big Ben and Westminister Bridge is very busy even for adults sightseeing and it seems to be always busy, therefore it can be a bit much for children .

We didn’t spend long here, we just got a few quick snaps of the London Eye from across the water and Big Ben as we walked by and we headed to St James Park past Westminster Abbey.

And if that wasn’t enough iconic sights in London within just a few minutes, on the way we passed a whole row of Red London Telephone Boxes which turned out to be a highlight as this was the first time the boys had seen one in London!

St James Park to Buckingham Palace

St James Park is one of the smaller parks in London but it is a nice one and it’s well located close to Westminster, Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square so its a good place to pop in or walk through when you want some nature and quiet time.

For us, it was a great way to walk towards Buckingham Palace and it was pretty interesting for the kids too.

I have been to Buckingham Palace a few times on my own tourist days in London but this was the first time I sat near the memorial for awhile and I was so surprised by how many children were climbing over the memorial and seemingly allowed to do so.

However, it actually proved to be a great way to let the kids climb and play and interact with a few other kids whose families were also sitting down relaxing.

Our final stop of the way day was Leicester Square as the boys wanted dumplings from China Town so we walked through Green Park from Buckingham Palace to Green Park Tube Station which isn’t very far and got on the Piccadilly Line a few stops to Leicester Square .

The Piccadilly line is a good tube line for kids as it’s not the hottest (the central line is so hot!) but it is fully underground (unlike the District line we took earlier in the day) so that proved to be a lot of fun.

Chinatown & Leicester Square

We exited Leicester Square and headed around the corner to Chinatown and then to Leicester Square.

Because it was Saturday evening it was very busy . We did get dumplings which were enjoyed, but we then went to Shake Shack which was awful , it was so busy and dirty so I wish we had decided to go elsewhere for dinner and not right in the middle of Leicester Square which is busy and very hyped up!

If you are staying in a hotel or Airbnb slightly out of the centre of London or central London, there are always places to eat around tube stops and in other neighbourhoods and this would have been better for us to do really.

Then, it was home to bed with tired little legs in tow.

Accommodation in London for families:

Day 2 in London with Kids

We checked the weather in advance and it said it was going to rain on Sunday and our second day in London with kids so we decided to use this as our museum day .

The National History Museum was high on our list of things to do in London with kids , my husband had suggested planning it into day 1 of our London itinerary to get the boys excited for London but with rain forecasted, we left it until day 2 which was a great idea, and actually, it would have really eaten into our sightseeing day the day before had we tried to fit it in!

Our 2nd day in London with kids looked like this:

• Start – South Kensington Tube Station

Breakfast in South Kensington

• Natural History Museum when it opened at 10:00am

Science Museum

• Walk up to Harrods in Knightsbridge

I used to work at the Science Museum in London so I am very much used to South Kensington and I think South Kensington is a great area of London to see , especially with kids, not just because of the museums but there are many cafes and restaurants to visit for refreshments, the streets are wide , the houses look like typical ‘London Houses’ and it’s close to places like Hyde Park and Harrods .

We got breakfast in South Kensington when we arrived at Rosie and Brown , it wasn’t exactly child friendly but we sat downstairs out of the way and they had pancakes on the menu so everyone was happy and full.

Natural History Museum

If you’re spending a weekend in London with children, be aware that the museums (especially the Natural History Museum & Science Museum ) get really busy all day both Saturday and Sunday (and all school holidays!) so there will likely to queues to enter, even as it opens at 10:00 am which was the case with us.

The museums are also very busy inside , especially in the entrance areas and hallways, and if you have a buggy, so you have to keep an eye on children , luckily around the exhibitions it gets less busy as people are spread out.

One of the great things about many of the London museums though is that they are free and count as great free things to do with children in London !

We went to the Natural History Museum first and spent way longer in here than I expected – about 3 hours, the boys were really interested in everything and with it being busy it took longer to get between exhibitions.

We went to the Science Museum next, having used to work here I should have known, but a few of the exhibitions and attractions in the Science Museum do require tickets which sell out on weekends, especially for Wonderlab, so check out tickets in advance here .

ALTERNATIVE IDEAS: If you have older children, they may be more interested by the art in V&A museum just opposite the Science Museum and NHM.

Things to do in London with Kids

Of course, there are far more things to do with kids in London than we managed to cover in one weekend.

There are many posts on things to do in London with kids but I did find some of them aimed at younger kids and toddlers more than my stepsons who are 6, 9 and 15 so do be mindful of that if you have older children.

Here are more child-friendly activities in London that I saw and have on my list for next time:

• See a Westend Show
• River Thames Speed Boat Experience
• Go on the London Eye
• London Transport Museum
• London Children Museum
• Twist Museum of Illusions
• Regents Canal Boat Ride
• Diana Memorial Playground
• Shrek’s Adventure
• London Dungeons
• Kew Gardens
• Visit a Football Stadium
• Madame Tussaud’s

And here are some places to visit near London with kids:

• Harry Potter Studio Tour (Watford)
• Legoland (Windsor)

Recommended family-friendly tours and activities in London to pre-book ready for your trip!

• Your Complete Guide To Camden Town in London!
• How To Visit Shoreditch on Sunday & All The Shoreditch Sunday Markets!

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Destinations , Travel with Kids , Western Europe

8 totally awesome things to do in london with toddlers.

Believe it or not, but toddlers are people (which I personally struggle with, as my own toddler sometimes seems to be more of an alien from another Galaxy). And being people, they are as susceptible to the charm of the coolest city in the world – London.

If you are planning to visit London with a toddler in your party if you are looking for places to take toddlers in London, here is my list of the best things to do in London with toddlers. Trust me, you can actually enjoy your trip to London if you are willing to drop some sights and prepare to open your mind to some toddler activities London has.

I have a general tip: in my experience, there is a way to trick a toddler into liking something – you must like it yourself. But not just like quietly, but love it passionately and outspokenly, half measures won’t do. Nor will the acting, so prepare to put all your heart into it and start sharing your enthusiasm on taking a tube during the rush hour at Oxford street. It’s best if the rest of the family joins in.

Table of Contents

• 1 So, what are the best things to do in London with toddlers?
• 2.1 Here is the list of especially awesome playgrounds in Central London:
• 3 2. Food Shopping in London
• 4.1 Here are some restaurants, which are particularly good for toddlers (and pretty awesome for their parents too):
• 5.1 Best museums for toddlers London:
• 6 5. Shopping in London
• 7 6. Animals in London
• 8.1 Best parks in London for toddlers:
• 9 8. Sightseeing in London with Toddlers
• 10.0.1 Using a buggy in London:
• 10.0.2 Backpack for your toddler:
• 10.0.3 Toddler-friendly guided tours in London:
• 10.0.4 Toddler-friendly accommodation in London:
• 10.1 Liked this post? Pin it!

So, what are the best things to do in London with toddlers?

Here is my little guide to London for toddlers and their parents.

1. Best Playgrounds in London

If the weather is good, you can actually just read this part and skip the rest of the post. Because after all the activity toddlers need is free play, and the playgrounds of London can offer that. At the same time the high health and safety standards ensure that your little one will not kill himself, while you blink for a second – as it might be an issue in my home Eastern Europe (our playgrounds are Darwin’s partner in natural selection). So when I thought of things to do in London with a 2-year-old, playgrounds was one of the first things to come to my mind.

One of the things I liked most about toddler playgrounds in London is how democratic they are. You can go to the ones which are considered “the best toddler playgrounds in London” and will be the first to appear in Google search, for example, the one in St James’ Park or Coram’s Fields. But wherever you are staying, you will find one nearby, and it can turn out even better.

Remember what I said about the toddler being more of an alien? This is why I keep saying that – because the logic of my son is completely different from my own. In my experience, Mark loved the one right next to our accommodation the most. It was a very simple one with two swings, one slide and a little hanging bridge. But because of its size, it was very manageable for him, so he could play without any help – and if you are a parent, you will know the feeling when you have to lift your child on a slide 152 times in one half of an hour.

Here is the list of especially awesome playgrounds in Central London:

As I said, just make sure you explore what is local and convenient for you. Remember also that the central ones tend to get extremely crowded on sunny weekends and Bank Holidays.

Hyde Park Pirate Ship – the most awesome kids’ playground London has, with a huge pirate ship, little water stream, sand, benches and picnic area. Oh, they serve good coffee right next to it, so it’s a win-win! St James’ Park – heard some great reviews of it, but did not like it. Almost impossible for the toddler to fully use it without the help of an adult. Plus there are zones, where you can’t see your little one from the bench. Holland Park – Playground with sand surface, pretty good slides and swings and the best of all: a little digger, which a child can operate on his or her own. I think this actually was Mark’s favourite one.

2. Food Shopping in London

Yes, there are so many talks about English food being the worst. But I find that this is not true for the supermarkets. The selection of organic food, fruits and vegetables is one of the best I have encountered, and the prices for some products are even lower than in my home Eastern Europe (which is supposed to be cheap).

Usually, you will have a good choice of berries and exotic fruits and vegetables of decent quality even off-season. If you find eating in the restaurants with a toddler too pricey or too much hassle, then I’m sure that you will find pretty much anything in most of the London supermarkets. When I lived in London, I was rather poor, so here is a tip I learnt: at the end of the day you can find a lot of good quality food reduced up to 90%. And if not, there is Whole Foods – the healthy+tasty eating paradise, although a rather expensive one.

You can use your time to introduce your toddler to the new tastes and senses, making it one of the most fun activities in London during your stay. It was there Mark has tasted ripe mangoes, coconut flour cake and litchi. Until we go somewhere, where those things grow naturally, this is our best place to get them in Europe.

There is one more food-related idea. If you come from a place, where ice-cream cars do not exist, remember that they do very much exist in London. When Mark first saw one passing, he thought it was an ambulance. When I explained the concept, his eyes widened: a car and an ice-cream (two best things!) in one? You should have seen him paying the ice-cream seller and getting his classic Flake99 – it was the happiest toddler in the whole world. And I could tick it off as a cultural experience.

3. Kid-Friendly Restaurants London

On our family hike in Northern Italy, we enjoyed some amazing pizza and pasta. In Crete Mark tasted fresh juicy oranges and yoghurt. In Israel, he loved hummus and falafel. But London has it all! And in addition to “it all”, London also has great restaurants, where your toddler is not frown at, but treated with respect as a full-righted customer.

Just choose the style of food you like and check, if there is any place available, which serves kids menu. Toddlers can be very picky eaters, but being served a menu to chose from, and then being brought the food to them by the waiter can be pretty exciting for a little one. And importantly, it might give you a chance to enjoy your own meal in peace.

On one of my visits we went out to an Italian restaurant and I was alone with Mark. I was dreading a table covered in pasta, turned chairs and angry customers, plus staying hungry myself. But Mark was enjoying himself, occupied by his starter of olives, nibbling on the second, and dipping his nose in his own (finally!) babyccino.

On other days we also tasted some perfect Greek yoghurt, falafels, curry and kebabs. And there is such thing as gastronomic tourism, after all. Or just one of those fun activities to do in London.

Here are some restaurants, which are particularly good for toddlers (and pretty awesome for their parents too):

Giraffe – Kids-friendly world food experience. Nando’s – Comfort food, tortillas, fried chicken and other guilty pleasures. Ask Italian – Well, Italian. Pizza and pasta, great ice-creams and coffee. Special baby three-course menu. What more do you need? Leon – I needed to add it. It’s my favourite restaurant of all times and just pure awesomeness. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian home-style food and amazing cakes.

4. Museums for Toddlers

On a rainy day in London (which are in abundance) try one of the so many museums. Most of the biggest museums in London are amazing and most of them are free. And many of those museums can be very interesting for both toddlers and grown-ups, making it probably the best of the indoor activities London has to offer.

If your child is into space rockets and other means of transport you don’t know much about yourself (that’s my case!) try the Science Museum. In addition to the permanent exhibition, in the Science Museum London toddlers will also find special “scientific” play areas with magnets, space games and other activities, IMAX cinema and many more. The museum also has special apps to help your little one (and you!) to explore.

Are there any toddlers who are not into the dinosaurs? If there are, I haven’t met any. The Natural History Museum has a special Dinosaur Trail, as well as butterflies section, educational garden with live flowers, earthquake and volcanoes tour and Creepy Crawlies gallery with insects, bugs and spiders – ok, the last one does not sound appealing at all.

Other than that, there are amazing art galleries and history museums, which also offer interactive activities to do with toddlers, so you can actually catch some glimpses of the expositions you would like to see yourself. For me, visiting museums is one of the best things to do in London with toddlers.

Best museums for toddlers London:

Science Museum – One of the best places to visit in London with toddlers Natural History Museum – Another idea to add to your list of indoor activities for toddlers in London National Gallery – Your toddler can try painting, playing quizzes and other fun art-oriented activities. British Museum – Visit their website for the list of activities and downloadable materials.

I’m leaving out the Imperial War Museum and Army Museum on purpose because I think there is nothing more stupid and absurd than children (or adults) playing with or admiring guns.

5. Shopping in London

For many people, London is the capital of shopping. Should you stop with this after you had a baby? Or after your baby turned into an always-run-in-the-opposite-direction toddler? I think there are ways to make sure both parents and kids stay happy. And also this can be another of those London indoor activities for toddlers to use on a rainy day.

Of course, I cannot take my toddler to my favourite small local ceramics, unless he is asleep in his buggy. But Mark actually likes choosing his clothes, so I can continue taking him to shops like Uniqlo, Matalan, Gap and others, as long as it’s not Saturday afternoon on Oxford Street.

Many shops in London are actually very child-friendly and would have some play zones and toilets. And if you are into shopping for some unique designs or vintage, try visiting Spitafields Market, Portobello Market or Covent Garden.

6. Animals in London

Funnily enough, Mark saw more animals in Central London, than in the village-like district of Vilnius, where we live. Around our house, we have ducks in the pond, and once in a while, a hedgehog strolls by. In London, we felt surrounded by animals.

In almost any park you will meet some brave squirrels, who do not mind crawling on your arm as long as you offer them some nuts. In any park with a little pond (which again is practically any park in London), you will find geese, ducks and swans. If you are willing to go further to a bigger park-like Richmond or Hampstead Heath, then you can watch the deer grazing right in front of you. And if you happen to walk by a trash container at night, there is a chance to see some dumpster-diving foxes.

In addition to all of these, you have also numerous city farms, petting zoos and bigger zoos.

Here is just a little list of them to give you some ideas.

London Zoo – probably the most known of the London attractions for toddlers Battersea Park Children’s Zoo – although pricey, but one of the best family activities London can offer. Hackney City Farm – one of the fun things for toddlers to do in London.

7. Parks for Toddlers in London

London is the only city, where I kept Mark on the leash (like this  Little Life Disney Mickey Mouse Backpack – Red ) on many of our tours, as creepy as it may look. And I actually thanked the inventor almost every minute, because London traffic (and I’m speaking of both human and transport) can be much busy and unpredictable. But with so many parks there is plenty of opportunities for your toddler to run wild (which they love doing).

London parks provide perfect locations for using a scooter, a bike or just running around. If you are there on a sunny day, then you can also consider having a picnic. Either bring your own food and a picnic blanket, or pop into the nearest store, which will have a choice of salads, sandwiches and pre-cut vegetables and dips, and rent a deck chair in the park to picnic in style.

I especially love London parks in spring , but they can be beautiful at any season.

Best parks in London for toddlers:

Hyde Park Holland Park St James’ Park Regent’s Park (a little note: this is one of the most beautiful parks, but unfortunately it doesn’t have any playground for toddlers)

8. Sightseeing in London with Toddlers

Unbelievable as it may sound, you can actually squeeze some sightseeing into your trip. The cheat strategy is to do the main part, while your toddler is asleep after all the running and exploring, but there are also things which can be interesting for toddlers. In Mark’s case these are fountains, tractors and bell towers.

You know your toddler best, so plan the trip accordingly. I could do some two-hours tour with Mark, making sure we see a fountain or a bell tower in equal (and rather short intervals) of time. We both pretty much enjoyed it, and it made me think that sightseeing can actually be another idea of where to take toddlers in London. If you dare to try, here is a good example of an itinerary for 3 days in London .

I will not be able to help you with a list here, as the list of sights in London is endless. Some of the most toddler-friendly ones are for sure T he London Eye , Sea Life or Tower of London . Alternatively, there is always an option to jump on a Hop On Hop Off bus and enjoy the view.

I’m sure by the end of this post you are already full of knowledge and courage, and will for sure know how to make your trip to London with a toddler a blast! And I also hope that although you came to this guide to the toddler-friendly London with a question: “What to do with toddlers in London?”, you left with some ideas of some fun things you can do there too.

General Tips:

Using a buggy in london:.

London is a rather buggy-friendly city. You have ramps in most locations. Despite this, you will want to keep your buggy light, especially if you want to use the tube, as on many stations there are no lifts. If you are looking for a good travel buggy for your child, have a look at my guide here .

Backpack for your toddler:

And of course, remember to get a backpack for your toddler (with or without the leash!).

Toddler-friendly guided tours in London:

What about a boat trip? While toddlers are not the best walkers, most of them would really have fun on a boat. And in the meantime, you get to relax AND see some more of the city. Win-win!

Toddler-friendly accommodation in London:

If you are looking for a place to stay in London, here are some tips on getting the best deals from Booking.com .

Budget: Royal London Hotel By Saba offers great facilities and relatively good location in Hammersmith for a decent price. Check out the room prices on Booking.com .

Mid-range: The Ampersand Hotel has a play-room, library and a full-size ping-pong table! What more can kids (and their parents) want?

High-end: Because after running around all the city of London catching your toddler, you deserve a good rest. Check out the prices for The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences (voted the best child-friendly hotel in London) here on Booking.com .

Or check some other deals here:

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merrygoroundslowly

Heya, I'm Ana, the writer of this blog. I live in Brussels and  I travel mostly around Europe with my husband and our two kids. As the blog name suggest, I travel quite slowly with many stops for food, relaxing and noticing small details.

13 thoughts on “ 8 Totally Awesome Things to Do in London with Toddlers ”

My kids are 6 and 9 (so not toddlers) but this list is perfect for them as well! They reallly want to go to London – I think some of the youtubers they like are from there ?

Oh this new generation! :)))

These are great tips – even for grown ups like me. I’m with you on leaving out the military museum for kids ? Thanks for sharing!

Oh, I’m happy there are more like-minded people here.

Ana, loved your article, especially that part about museums and parks! Our family loves spending time outdoors and learning new things. I’ll bookmark your post to get back to it later when we are on our way to London, what may happen later this year! ?

I’m glad it was useful! Wish you a good trip to London!

I bet travelling with toddlers isn’t easy, but I love that you’re still encouraging it – especially in places like London! So many people think that once you have children travel just has to stop, but that’s so not the case. Good on you XX

I would be so sad to stop travelling once I’ve had Mark. Luckily, it feels that I actually have even more freedom to travel, as I switched to freelance work and have more days off to do it with him.

Hi Ana, Your post made me miss London so much. You are right, London is well designed and has a lot of ramps for a buggy which must be great for parents. I’m excited to see you guys saw a red squirrel. We’ve been missing those ❤

Yes, red squirrels are so rare these days, especially in the UK. I also love the ramps and how buggy-friendly the city is – that is until you have to use the tube, and then it’s suddenly hostile to buggies 🙂

I have plans of visiting UK soon and your post is God sent ? So well written and organised. Thanks ?

I’m glad it was useful!

I’ve never been to the Army museum so I can’t comment about that specifically but suggesting visiting the Imperial War Museum inevitably exposes children to the fetishisation of guns either exposes the fact you’ve never actually been or an inability to comprehend that the museum is about the history, conduct and experience of war both to its protagonists and victims and is hence – overwhelmingly – sensitive to the brutality of armed conflict. Anyone who has been round the Holocaust section or the WW1 exhibition would be struggling with any concept that a toddler would somehow be exposed to the glamour of guns. It’s not a helpful – or accurate – comment about the museum. If your child *happens* to think a fighter aircraft or V1 rocket or tank is exciting it’s entirely up to the parent to put it into context.

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The Perfect 5 or 7 day London itinerary with kids

By: Author Wandermust Mummy

London is one of the greatest cities in the world to visit if you are traveling with kids in tow. I am a firm believer that cities can be a good holiday with children, if you plan for it correctly. As a London mum of a toddler I am lucky to have explored this city extensively and know the best things to do with kids in tow , while also understanding the need for good pacing when tackling a city the size of London. This 5 or 7 day London itinerary with kids shows the best that each area of London has to offer as well as offering insights into London hidden gems that should be on your bucket list  and best places to stay.

Note:  This itinerary is designed to be done in any order. The days are merely an indicator so feel free to mix this up as suits you best. This itinerary also does not allow for travel from Heathrow airport to London.  This London itinerary with family covers

• Best things to do in Central London (Covent Garden, Southbank etc)
• Best London Museums for Kids and exploring South Kensington
• Best London Boroughs to visit with families (i.e. Greenwich, Richmond etc)\
• Best London Attractions With kids to visit (London Eye, Tower of London, Buckingham Palace etc)
• Best Day Trips from London with kids to take and 
• Best way to travel around London  with kids. 

Table of Contents

Day one of your 7 day London itinerary with kids (or without)

Note : I have put this as Day One as the Changing of the Guard is not on every day. As a must on any London bucket list , you will not want to miss this. So if you only can do  London in a day with kids I would pick this one but dependent on your interests all of these could work.

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or try one of our favorite places for Breakfast in the city including:

• The Cereal Killer Cafe
• The Breakfast Club

Changing of the Guard

Watching the Changing of the Guard on your Ultimate London Itinerary with Kids

Today’s first stop is The Changing of the Guard. This ceremonial parade is a must do for any London visitor.

You can read more about the changing of the guard with kids here  – and this will give you all the best information about best places to watch the parade, arrival times and all other essential information.

Once the Changing of the Guard has finished, you may want to consider letting your littles go run off some steam at the Playground opposite Wellington Barracks (the starting point of the parade) There is also a cafe here should your little ones need a snack and is also a good place for a caffeine stop.

Buckingham Palace

Now Buckingham Palace is on everyone’s list for London. You can get some good pictures from the outside but depending on your interest and the time of year you are visiting you may want to book to look inside.  The Palace Staterooms are open over the summer (July-September) and then in December (occasional) – if you want a Winter itinerary for London check out this post. 

 The tour is definitely worthwhile doing especially for fans of royal history ! And for those traveling with small children, you don’t need to worry that this isn’t family friendly. The tour ends in the Garden and there is a lovely soft play area to let your smalls loose in.

As this is only open for such a limited time it is absolutely essential to book your tickets in advance – YOU CAN BOOK YOUR TICKETS ONLINE HERE

Buckingham Palace on your London 5 day itinerary family will enjoy

If time allows, we also recommend visiting the Royal Mews where you can visit the State Carriages and also meet the Queen’s Horses, a sure fire hit with kids.  There are also some great hands on activities for children here which including a dressing up box and a craft table.

You can book your royal mews tickets in advance HERE 

St James Park 

Once you have finished at the Palace it is worth heading back through St James Park to head towards Westminster which is where you will be spending your afternoon.  In the park, you will definitely want to stop and see the pelicans who are residents in the park.

For the budget conscious, you could consider having a picnic lunch in the park otherwise you can head towards Trafalgar Square for a quick cafe lunch.

Also, if time permits, you will want to make a quick stop at Horse Guards.

Churchill War Rooms 

This afternoon we recommend making your first stop the Churchill War Rooms (this is more suitable for older children and adults than those traveling with small children). This is really the best place in the country to learn about Britain during WW2. The Churchill War Rooms are right opposite St James Park and in there you will learn about Winston Churchill and the operational work that happened in this bunker.

You will find advance booking essential, especially as you get a better rate by booking in advance.

Parliament Square and the Houses of Parliament

london with kids itinerary – Houses of Parliament

Parliament Square and the Houses of Parliament is just a short walk from the Churchill War Rooms. It isn’t looking its best at the moment as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are currently being renovated. Be warned the renovations on Big Ben mean that barring New Year’s Eve you will not hear the bells chime until 2021. However it is still worth a visit on your trip.

Tours are available and are definitely worthwhile for adults visiting. There is a family friendly audio guide but this is aimed at minimum age 7, so if you are traveling with smaller children, I would recommend just admiring from outside.

Across the road is the beautiful

Westminster Abbey

Opening times for the Abbey vary so you will want to check opening times and tweak this order to make sure you allocate enough time.  The queues can get long here so get your tickets in advance HERE!

After all that exploring head to your final area of the day: Trafalgar Square.

Trafalgar Square

The fourth plinth means that there is always something new to see in the square and if time allows you could nip inside the National Gallery.

Enjoy a dinner in the area and if you are inclined to see a show, then you are in the right area for the theatres. Our favorite theatre shows for traveling with small children are Matilda, Aladdin and the Lion King.

For those traveling with older kids or without children we recommend visiting the longest running play,  The Mousetrap,  by Agatha Christie, a gripping whodunnit which is typically British.

To check out London Theatre Tickets and to make your reservations CLICK HERE

Day 2 of your London with kids itinerary – East London

For Day 2 of your London with kids itinerary we are celebrating all things East London. If you fancy a posh breakfast, a great place in the vicinity of today’s attraction is the lovely Duck and Waffle restaurant with it’s signature dish – Duck and Waffle.

After Breakfast you will head to your first stop of the day:

Tower of London

The Tower of London has so much on offer and it is hard to put a time on how long you will spend there. It is the place to learn about London’s more grizzly history including the beheading of two of Henry VIII’s wives (Anne Boleyn and Katherine of Howard) and about the mysterious disappearance and murder of the Princes in the Tower to name but a few.

It is definitely worth taking the tour (included in the ticket price), with one of the Yeoman Warder who can reveal fascinating insights on the Tower and its history. These tours last an hour and leave every 30 minutes. Be warned however that these can get busy so we recommend doing this as soon as you arrive to avoid the crowds.

Other worthwhile stops on your tour of the Tower of London include the armory, the chapel and of course visiting the Crown Jewels Exhibition.

Advance booking is essential. You can buy your tickets in advance , including Crown Jewel exhibition here.

After a quick lunch we recommend heading over to

Tower Bridge

This iconic bridge is an engineering triumph and has a fascinating exhibition at the top.  If you are lucky you may get to see the bridge open while you are there.

Advance booking is essential. You can buy your tickets online HERE

After your trip to Tower Bridge your next stop is the beautiful

This is a free attraction but advance booking of tickets is essential. The Sky Garden offers great views across London, and rivals the Shard for views and is even better being free.

Click here to book online for free! 

If you have time a bonus stop today is

The Monument

The Monument was resurrected in memory of the Great Fire of London of 1666. The walk to the top of the Monument is not for the faint hearted as it is 311 steps to the top.  Suitable only for adults and older children, this also offers great views of the city without the Shard price tag.

For dinner tonight, we recommend heading to Brick Lane for a curry. Our personal favorite on Brick Lane is Aladdin’s but there is plenty of choice and you can’t leave the UK without trying a curry.

For adventurous eaters head to brick lane for a curry

Day 3 of your London family vacation itinerary (or without) – Day Trip Day

Today in your London family vacations itinerary is allocated as your day trip day. While there is loads to see in London, so much that even me as long time resident still haven’t seen everything, I still think it is worthwhile to head outside the city for at least a day.

If you a traveling with a Harry Potter fan then the Harry Potter Studio Tour is really the only day trip you should be considering doing. This books up months in advance. It is imperative to book these tickets in advance with plenty of notice! 

If you don’t manage to book these tickets in advance then I recommend consoling your Harry Potter fan with a day trip to Oxford.  You can visit the Oxford Colleges which is very interesting in itself but Harry Potter fans will recognize it as Hogwarts filming locations.

Either way you should start your day at Kings Cross to take the iconic platform 9 and 3/4 photograph. The queue for this can get crazy busy so you will want to be there early.

Our other favourite day trips from London with or without kids are:

• Hampton Court Palace – the royal residence of Henry VII which is overflowing with fun attractions for all the family – read our full review here. 
• Windsor – another must for royal fans! You can read our Windsor Essential Guide here.
• Harry Potter Studio Tour

or if you are looking for beach access then

• Brighton is the day trip for you.

Other day trip options from London include Bath and Stonehenge and the Cotswolds.

If you want to know which d ay trips are best in Winter click here.

Day 4 itinerary for London with kids – The Southbank

Day 4 of your itinerary for London with kids is all about Central London in particular the Southbank area. One of my favourite areas in the city. 

london itinerary with toddler

Note: The walk along the Southbank takes in many attractions so depending on what interests you will depend on how many stops you take.

If you are traveling with small children, I definitely recommend taking your stroller today.

Start by having breakfast at Borough Market. This is a London foodie gem. Film buffs will recognize this as the location of Bridget Jone’s flat. Borough Market has existed in some form or another since the 13 th   Century and even the fussiest eater will find something they love with over 100 stalls setting up shop there. Going early is essential as the crowds, especially at lunchtime can get big.

After you have fueled up, head out of the market and walk West. The walk along the Thames is beautiful and you can stop at:

The Golden Hinde Replica

This is a reconstruction of the ship that belonged to Sir Francis Drake. It is great that you can climb aboard and for London it isn’t too busy an attraction.

Nearby is also the famous  Clink Prison.  You can’t fail to notice the Clink as outside there is a large skeleton hanging in a cage. Not a museum in the most traditional sense and a bit gruesome (so not one for those traveling with small children). The museum offers a gruesome insight into some of the prisoners who had been held there.

The next impressive stop on your walk is  Shakespeare’s Globe.  The Globe is a reconstruction of Shakespeare’s open air theatre and offers daily performances of Shakespeare. I recommend coming back here tonight with older children to see a show as you really get a feel for what Tudor theatre was like as you stand to watch the show. If you don’t want to watch a full play however you can always take one of the guided tours instead. In school holidays you will find there are dedicated family tours so it is worth checking availability in advance.

The next big icon on your walk will be the Tate Modern.  This industrial building is hard to miss on the London skyline.

The infamous Millennium Bridge is just outside the Tate and is worth a quick walk. The view from either side of the Bridge is breathtaking and I recommend making time in your Day to do it. If you want to dart across to St Paul’s if time allows this is the time to do so.

The Tate Museum has free entry so if you have enough time and inclination then it is worth jumping into the museum. The museum is the modern art museum of London and has some of the world’s best known modern artists on display and the Turbine Hall has a temporary exhibition space which has some of the most interesting and sometimes controversial exhibits. There are family trails and at weekends and school holidays plenty of family friendly activities.

Even if art isn’t your thing it is worth heading to the Chimney Viewing Deck. This offers great views of the City of London including St Paul’s Cathedral and best of all it is free.

The next stop is the Southbank Centre. You can’t miss it because it is hideous. A brutalist building which however is home to a stretch of family friendly restaurants. This is a great place to come for lunch or dinner. Our favourites include Giraffe and Wahaca

From there you head to the busiest stretch of the South Bank. The busiest place on this section is of course

The London Eye

London itinerary for families – London Eye

Originally only a temporary structure made for the Millennium, the structure proved so popular that is still stands today. Not the highest view in London but the eye offers great views across the city including some of the best views of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. For small children, the 45 minute revolution might be a little boring but older children will enjoy picking out the landmarks and it is a must for any adult visitor to the city.

Pre booking tickets is a must to try and avoid the queue!

For those traveling with children, there is a lovely playground  which is a great place to blow off steam.

Also of interest for those traveling with children will be the stretch of Merlin attractions along the Southbank:

Top Tip:      If you are planning to visit several London attractions from Merlin Entertainments group  these include: Shrek’s Adventure! London, Madame Tussaud’s London, Sea life London Aquarium, The Coca-Cola London Eye and The London Dungeon it will save you a TON of money to buy the group ticket – you can buy the Merlin Magical London ticket here!

Depending on your children and your tastes I would recommend finishing your day by doing one of the above.

5 days in London with kids – Museums Galore

If you are planning to do a London 5 day itinerary family will enjoy then you can pick any of the days it notes have to be day one to day 5. 

Note : Today is the celebration of all things cultural as you head to South Kensington as no 5 days in London with kids would be completed without hitting one of the capital’s famous museums. The below are the best picks for those traveling with children but if you aren’t traveling with children or with older kids I would recommend spending the morning or afternoon at British Museum, Sir John Soanes Museum which are in different locations or adding the V&A to the below list.

This day is also perfect if you are due to have a rainy day in London!  

If you are traveling with small children the two museums in South Kensington I recommend are the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum. Both of them have brilliant hands on areas and depending on your interests depends how long you will spend in each.

Note: if you are in London in December then the natural history museum ice rink has to make it into your Christmas itinerary.

the museums are also excellent for the older traveller especially the dinosaur and geology exhibits as the Natural History Museum and the Making Modern World galleries at the Science Museum.

Looking for books for children visiting the London museums? Check our this post! 

For lunch I recommend heading to the Lebanese restaurant, Comptoir Lebanese near the Tube Station or heading into the Mews House Streets and to the beautiful pub the Queens Arms – my favorite pub in London.

After lunch, head to Kensington Palace. Adults will love viewing the exhibits on show at the Palace, the current home of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. For those traveling with younger children, the Diana Memorial Playground is an absolute must and you will struggle to drag them away.

For tonight’s dinner we recommend heading to Covent Garden where there are plenty of child friendly restaurants and kids will love watching the street performers in the piazza.

Day 6 of 7 days in London family itinerary (or without) – West London

Today on your London Family Itinerary you are heading out west on the District Line, to my end of London and my favorite place

Kew Gardens

London family itinerary – Kew Gardens

This beautiful botanic garden offers acres of floral splendor. A favorite is a walk in the iconic glass houses including the tropical Palm House while children will love taking the train round the grounds and walking the Treetop Walkway.

In holidays and weekends there are plenty of family friendly activities. A recent favorite of ours has been watching aromatic performances in the glass house.

For those that want to spend the day in the garden, you can also go into Kew Palace, a royal historic palace in the grounds of the gardens.

For a complete guide on things to do in Kew Gardens with kids check out this guide! 

You can have a picnic in the garden on a nice day or head to one of the eateries inside the ground otherwise you can head into the nearby Richmond (walk or bus) where there are lots of restaurants.

You can spend the rest of the day walking around this historic town and why not hire a boat and have a jaunt on the river.

Day 7 of your 7 day London itinerary with kids (or without) – Maritime Greenwich

The last day of your 7 day London itinerary. Today we are heading to Maritime Greenwich in East London.

The best way to get to Greenwich is to hop on one of the boats and head down the river. Otherwise you can hop on the tube.

Start your day exploring the restored  Cutty Sark.  This historic tea clipper is a must for any Greenwich visit. Being able to climb aboard and see under this ship is a visit not to be missed.

For lunch head to the covered markets of Greenwich.  And do a final bit of souvenir shopping.

After lunch head to the National Maritime Museum.  Kids will love the giant map in the foyer while adults will enjoy learning about Britain’s maritime history.

Another must while you are in Greenwich is to head to and then jump the Greenwich Meridian line.  Striding the Greenwich Meridian line means that you can be in both the Eastern and Western hemispheres at the same time. A really unique thing to end your trip to London on

Where to Stay in for this London itinerary for families

If you are looking for the best places to stay to complete this London itinerary for families then we have put some suggestions in each price bracket to help you make your choice.

Luxury Hotels

Our favorite luxury hotels that are both couple and family friendly are:

Conrad St James

My favorite hotel breakfast in the world. It is a great location and very family friendly

You can book online here!  

Aldwych one

I love this hotel especially its pool with the underwater music.  It also has a great Charlie and the chocolate factory themed afternoon tea.

You can book online here! 

Shangri La at the Shard

If you want to stay in a bucket list worthy hotel in London then this is the one for you.

You can check availability and prices here

You can compare prices here

Mid-Range Hotel Options 

Premier Inn

This chain hotel offers comfortable rooms in an ideal setting for exploration. For more information on the best premier inn to stay in London check out this post.

you can compare prices here! 

MidRange:  Hilton London Tower Bridge

This mid range hotel is situated perfectly to explore some of London’s greatest icons.

Kensington Marriott

Kensington is a great pace for those traveling with children.

You can check availability and prices here! 

For a more complete guide to the best London neighbourhoods and hotels to stay in click here. 

How to get around London with kids or without

London underground.

The Underground is one of the busiest underground systems in the world and dates back over 150 years. As such not all of the stations and lines are accessible and can be difficult to navigate with a stroller.We recommend picking up a London Underground map and looking for the disability symbol at the station as this shows which stations are accessible with strollers. Also be sure to check the TFL website before traveling to look for any train closures or delays. No visit to London is complete without riding the underground. To pay on the Underground you can use contactless card or pick up an Oyster card.

If you want more information about London with a baby then check out this post!

DO YOU NEED A CAR SEAT IN A UK TAXI? 

UK law  states that when travelling in taxis children under three may travel without a car seat. However I never travel without a car seat so we never take a taxi with our little one. If you know that you can store a car seat at your destination or perhaps have a convertible car seat stroller then this may be something you decide to do.

You could try booking a car in advance however with a company that provides car seats but this will obviously mean you have to keep to a tighter schedule.

LONDON BUSES 

Depending on the age of the bus will depend how accessible they are with a stroller. Modern buses have stroller parking but if busy you will have to fold it. London buses are a great way to get around the city while still seeing the sights.

TFL FERRIES

Ferries can be used with your Oyster card and are a great way to see many of the London sights in relative comfort.

LONDON HOP ON HOP OFF BUSES

We have always loved a Hop On Hop Off bus. They are a great way to see the main sights of a city but can be difficult to use especially in the summer. Be sure to have a compact stroller or a carrier if you are planning on using.

Looking for things to make baby travel easier? Then check out this post!

TAXIS AND UBER

Taxis in London can be expensive especially the Black cabs and in London traffic. London Black Cabs are exempt from car seat laws and are the only taxis in London that can be hailed.

Uber is currently still available in London but doesn’t’ provide car seats. If you want some recommendations for car seats for toddlers when travelling check out this post.

FAQs about this London with kids itinerary 

Does this work as a london itinerary with toddler.

This itinerary will absolutely work as a London itinerary with toddler in tow. In fact we lived in London with a toddler and did all of these things. However if you want some more information about visiting London with babies or toddlers check out this post for some specifically designed toddler activities. 

Tell us have you spent 7 days in London? What was your family trip to london itinerary? What were your highlights?

Further Reading: 

• 50 + things to do in London with kids 
• 4 Day London Itinerary 
• London Bucket List 
• UK Bucket List
• 50 Things to do on a Rainy Day in London
• Hampton Court Day Trip 
• Guide to Visiting London with a Baby or Toddler 
• Children’s Books set in London

Monday 1st of July 2019

London is one of my favourite cities anywhere. A number of great itineraries here which take you all over this fabulous city..

Deborah Patterson

Wednesday 26th of June 2019

That's the essentials covered! I'm a Londoner (though don't live there now) and still haven't seen everything there is to see. With little kids one area and museum I'd definitely add is Covent Garden to watch the shows and go to the London Transport Museum. I also always recommend the playground in Kensington Gardens after a trip to the Science or Natural History Museums for a picnic and for the kids to let off steam.

We'll certainly be spending some time in the city this summer...we've not done the Tower of London with our kids yet, so I think that's going on the list. #fearlessfamtrav

the Curious Pixie

Such a fab and comprehensive itinerary. So handy for families! #fearlessfamtrav

Tuesday 25th of June 2019

It always the way isn’t it, I’ve not been to half these places despite living close to London! #Fearlessfamtrav

This is a great itinerary! We have not taken the kids to London yet but it is high on our bucket list. I will definitely be referencing this when we plan our trip. And I'm definitely with you- I'm not comfortable not having our kids in carseats so we don't really travel by taxi. #fearlessfamtrav

45 Amazing Things to do in London with a Toddler in 2022

We love the hustle and bustle of visiting London – the excitement of riding the tube, seeing iconic landmarks and just people-watching and taking in the atmosphere. London is a very family-friendly city with plenty of activities and sights to see with a toddler in tow –  from beautiful parks and playgrounds to theatres, museums and attractions, you’ll never be short of toddler-friendly activities in London. There’s even some great family hotels in London to choose from.

We’ve put together a list of ideas of places to visit with your children to enjoy during your trip to the capital.

Table of Contents

Things to do in London with a Toddler

I know many people think visiting London with a toddler is the stuff of nightmares. That it should be left for older children, romantic getaways or a  girls weekend away . However, just because they’re little, it shouldn’t put you off visiting this amazing city. There is so much you can do with a toddler in London to ensure both you and your little ones enjoy yourselves. There is so much to fit into a  London itinerary , from a wealth of London landmarks , and museums to the zoo and castles, London with a toddler has plenty of offer families of all ranges. So pack for London  and here are a just a few ideas of things to do in London with a toddler and a baby and a few  London travel tips too.

Outer Circle, Regent’s Park, London, NW1 4RY

London Zoo is located in a corner of Regent’s Park and will thrill children of all ages, particularly toddlers. As the world’s oldest scientific zoo, London Zoo houses 700 species of animals and has many exhibits including the Gorilla Kingdom, Land of the Lions, Tiger Territory and Penguin Beach. London Zoo is also easy to get to with no less than 3 tube stations within walking distance of Regent’s Park. And with so much to see and do alongside the animals themselves, this will make for a great day out in London with a toddler and a baby.

HMS Belfast

The Queen’s Walk, London, SE1 2JH

This is one of my all-time favourite London attractions. HMS Belfast is a former Royal Navy Town-class light cruiser now permanently moored on the banks of the River Thames near Tower Bridge. She saw action in both World War Two and the Korean war and one of my uncles served on her during his time in the Royal Navy, something I only learned upon his death.

I have visited HMS Belfast twice before having my son and know he would enjoy it should we get the chance to revisit her. You can see many areas of the ship including a shell room housing artillery shells for the guns to the sleeping quarters for the crew. You can take the helm in the Captain’s chair and also visit the laundry room, dentists and sick bay. There is so much to explore on HMS Belfast that I’m sure toddlers will enjoy it.

Tower of London

Tower of London, London, EC3N 4AB

No visit to London with a toddler would be complete without visiting the Tower of London . We have visited the Tower of London many times and most recently with our toddler son before a trip to America. As a fan of castles, we knew he would enjoy the Tower of London and, by making the visit more interesting with a dragon hunting adventure, we weren’t wrong.

From Traitor’s Gate, to the White Tower, and not forgetting the Crown Jewels, visiting the Tower of London with toddlers will easily fill a few hours of a day. There are a few cafes to stop for refreshments and gift shops, where we bought our son some knights and horses. Our son really enjoyed our visit to the Tower, especially when he finally found his own dragon on the top floor of the White Tower.

The London Eye

Westminster Bridge Road, London, SE1 7PB

If you think the London Eye isn’t somewhere to bring a toddler, you are wrong. During our day out in London before heading to America on holiday, we visited the London Eye with our then 3 year old son. I had been on the Eye a few months before but with a party of adults, so was unsure whether he would enjoy it. I need not have worried as he enjoyed the ride, looking out of the capsule and commenting on high we were getting, and checking out the boats on the water below us.

It really does give you some of the  best views in London . The interactive tablets also caught his attention and with a little help from mum he could spot some of the buildings that were shown on the tablet. The London Eye can easily be enjoyed with toddlers, but I would advise getting Fast Track tickets as no-one wants to queue for hours in London with a toddler. A visit to the London Eye can also be combined with a visit to Sea Life as they are both located on Southbank.

The Emirates Airline Cable Car

27 Western Gateway, London E16 1FA

The Emirates Air Line , nicknamed the Dangleway, is a cable car link across the River Thames. The tickets are very cheap and the cable cars are pushchair-friendly too with the added bonus of enjoying birds-eye views of the Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks.

Buckingham Palace

London SW1A 1AA

Step off of the train at Victoria and take a short stroll to the Queen’s official London residence, Buckingham Palace. You can view the palace through the railings or even book a tour. A big highlight is watching the Changing of the Guard which takes place, weather permitting, at 11.00am on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday and daily during the summer. My kids love watching the soldiers in their uniforms and bear skin hats. You are also right next to St James Park where you can see pelicans and parakeets.

London SW1A 0AA

Big Ben is probably the world’s most famous clock and is actually the nickname for the Great Bell of the striking clock at the north end of the historic Palace of Westminster. It is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and can be viewed from London Bridge.

London Bridge

Southwark, London, SE1 9BG

London Bridge is used as a symbol of London and is recognisable to visitors from all over the world. The large train station is a main base to travel to many other locations including the London underground. There are plenty of locations to walk to nearby including the Shard, Borough Market and Monument. Young children will really enjoy the views of the Thames from London Bridge.

The Walkie-Talkie building, London EC3M 8AF

Perched 525ft high, on the 35th floor of the Walkie-Talkie building, the Sky Garden is the highest public garden in London. View the stunning sights of the city from the observation decks and there is also a restaurant up there too. It is free to visit but you must book a time slot.

The London Pass

The London Pass  allows you to access over 80 popular attractions, from the Tower of London to The View from The Shard. These passes are great as they allow hassle-free sightseeing to some of London’s top places, plus it will save you money as well – a win-win.

Paddington Bear Experience

Paddington Station

This two and a half hour walking tour is a must for Paddington Bear fans! The tour starts at Paddington Station where you can visit the Paddington statue and buy a gift from the Paddington Shop! A tour guide who will tell you all about Paddington throughout your walk. The tour ends at Portobello Road, where Mr Gruber’s antique shop can be found.

South Bank Centre

Belvedere Road ; London , SE1

There is always plenty going on for kids at the South Bank from street performers to family trails. Discover the very best of children’s theatre, comedy, music, literature, dance, mindfulness and, most importantly, 12 days of fun for children across the February half-term.

Hampton Court Palace

East Molesey KT8 9AU

Hampton Court Palace is a Grade I listed royal palace in Richmond and was the home of King Henry VIII. Kids can enjoy the Magic Garden (which is closed during winter) where there are mythical beasts, battlements, towers and a secret grotto to explore in this magical children’s playground.

Things to do in London in the Rain – London with a  Toddler

There’s no need for a bit of rain to spoil your fun. London has plenty of indoor venues to keep your toddler entertained too. From West End children’s shows to galleries and activity centres – you’re totally spoilt for choice with rainy day activities in London.

The Unicorn Theatre

147 Tooley St, London SE1 2HZ

The Unicorn Theatre is a children’s theatre in Southwark. The theatre offers thrilling theatre experiences for children aged up to 13, with fun new shows alongside adaptations of classic texts. It is the largest children’s theatre in the UK and is sure to provide a day of entertainment.

Hamley’s Toy Shop

88-196 Regent Street, London, W1B 5BT

Hamley’s Toy Shop is probably one of the most well-known toy shops in London, it has been situated on Regents Street since 1881 and has seven floors, packed full of toys. The only thing you may struggle with is getting your toddler to leave!

This is one place I really, really want to take my son. Not only for his enjoyment, but I want to see it with my own eyes. If you haven’t heard of KidZania, and you’ve got children, you’re going to want to know about it. Located in Westfield Shopping Centre in Shepherd’s Bush,  KidZania is an indoor city, run by kids. Although it is designed for ages 4-14, they do have a selection of activities for toddlers up to the age of 4.

Children can work as doctors, firefighters, actors and more and they can ‘earn’ money to use for various other activities such as the climbing wall. Or they can open a bank account and get their own card, just like Mum and Dad. I’ve heard of both the London and Singapore KidZania and they sound like amazing places to bring toddlers and older children alike. This is definitely on our to-do list for next time we are in London with a toddler and a baby.

Sea Life London

Sea Life in Southbank was formerly known as the London Aquarium and is another attraction that will be a big hit in London with a toddler. We have visited with our son as a toddler and he thoroughly enjoyed it. From walking across the shark bridge at the entrance, to going in search of Nemo, toddlers will find something new and exciting at every turn. By far my favourite part of Sea Life London is the huge central tank that spans all three floors of the aquarium. Within it you will find manta rays, sharks, even turtles and taking centre stage are replica Easter Island heads. This is an attraction not to be missed in London with a toddler and a baby.

Harry Potter Studios

High on the list of many children’s (not to mention grown up’s) wish lists is a ticket to one of the Warner Brothers Studio Tours for a tour of  Harry Potter in London . There is private area for parents to feed complete with nursing chair and changing tables is located next to the Backlot Café. Hot water for heating up bottles can be provided within the Backlot Café.

The Tate Modern

Bankside, London SE1 9TG

The Tate Modern is a free art gallery that has many activities for children including workshops and games. The gallery is buggy-friendly and they actively encourage young visitors, the collection holds masterpieces of international and British modern art. It is also right on the South Bank so you can stroll around there after your visit.

Shrek’s Adventure London

Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB

We are all big fans of Shrek, and this family-friendly attraction based on the film has a 4D movie with interactive fairy tale shows including Trolls. Shrek’s Adventure can be a little scary in places so this one would depend on hove brave your kids are. It is right next to the London Eye and also the Sealife Aquarium, so after your visit you could enjoy a walk along the Thames and even cross the Millenium Bridge.

London Shows for Young Kids

It’s never too early to introduce toddlers to the magic of theatre, and London has plenty of shows to entertain the little ones. There are puppet shows for babies and toddlers as well as stage shows such as Frozen, The Lion King, The Snowman and Matilda the Musical. Just look online for the best deals first.

The Discovery Story Centre Stratford

High St, London E15 4QZ

The Discovery Children’s Story Centre is the perfect place to visit when in London with a toddler. It’s an interactive story trail, with an outdoor story garden including a spacecraft. The kids can creep through caves, find hidden ships and perform in a puppet castle, visit a treehouse with chicken legs and discover mysterious hidden sculptures. Hours of fun and great for the imagination.

London Museums for Toddlers

London sure does have its pick of museums! Many of these are free to enter and there are plenty to choose from, The Natural History Museum is always a hit with their dinosaurs and animal collection and the Postal Museum is absolutely brilliant for children too. Here are a few of our favourites.

British Museum

Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG

You can take part in a Museum Mission featured in six galleries and challenge your family to a variety of tasks. On the weekends you can pick up an activity backpack, or a Museum explorer trail, from the Families Desk to guide you around the galleries. During school holidays there are playful workshops that bring the stories in the Museum collection to life. Under 5s and their carers are invited to join in with the Museum’s Little Feet programme.

Natural History Museum

Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD

London’s Natural History Museum is one of our favourites. There is so much to see for kids of all ages you can discover fascinating creatures and of course walk through the dinosaurs and see all of the bones. There are gemstones and minerals, human body zones and plenty of interactive areas to enjoy, plus The Science Museum is just around the corner and the V&A museum is opposite.

Victoria and Albert Museum

Cromwell Rd, London SW7 2RL

The V&A Museum is  the world’s leading museum of art, design and performance. They often have many exhibitions such as the current Beatrix Potter one, you can find out about her life as a scientist and conservationist, exploring the places and animals that inspired her most beloved characters.The museum also has a lovely cafe onsite.

The London Transport Museum

The Piazza, London WC2E 7BB

Discover the history of London’s transport at London Transport Museum in Covent Garden. The Transport museum provides fun for the whole family, there are singing and story sessions every week in term time. During the school holidays there are creative and crafty activities for the little ones to take part in. Or just wander around at your own pace and look at all of the transport.

The Postal Museum

15-20 Phoenix Pl, London WC1X 0DA

Take a ride on Mail Rail and discover the inspiring stories of Britain’s postal heritage at the Postal Museum . There are plenty of free workshops, an underground ride on Mail Rail and Sorted! The Postal Play Space. The children can also join story-book favourite The Jolly Postman on his rounds through 500 years of history.

London Science Museum

Somewhere we visited before having kids, and somewhere I long to now revisit with our son, is the London Science Museum. With my background as a scientist this is my kind of place. Located in South Kensington, this is one of London’s most popular attractions, welcoming over 3 million visitors annually. And I can vouch for how busy it gets.

With exhibitions about space and engineering to maths and medicine, there are exhibits to capture the attention of everyone. There is also an IMAX cinema within the London Science Museum showing short films about a variety of subjects. And even better, the London Science Museum is free although donations are welcome to ensure the continuation of this amazing museum.

London Transport Museum

The London Transport Museum, based in Covent Garden, is somewhere I have been meaning to take my son but never quite got around to it. Opened in 1980 to exhibit a collection from London Transport, the exhibits have been expanded to cover all aspects of transport within London.

From iconic red double decker buses to the recognisable London Underground tube carriages, there are many vehicles on display to capture the attention and imagination of toddlers who visit. It is a great way to discover how transportation has evolved in London and if your kids are fans of things like Thomas the Tank Engine or Chuggington, then I’m sure they’ll enjoy the London Transport Museum.

Playgrounds and Parks in London

London is a very big cosmopolitan city but it is also home to lots of wonderful, green parks, ancient woodlands and adventure playgrounds too. You can get to see some wildlife at the lakes and ponds, visit the deer at Richmond Park, see the dinosaurs at Crystal Palace Park and climb and swing in many of London’s playgrounds.

Battersea Park – SW London

London SW11 4NJ

Battersea Park is huge and has plenty to keep toddlers entertained, you can hire bicycles, take a picnic, get an ice cream from one of the cafes and feed the ducks. There are fountains, flowers, blossom tree walks in the Spring and a very big adventure playground with climbing areas, swings and slides.

Holland Park – West London

Ilchester Pl, London W8 6LU

Holland Park is beautiful and has many zones to explore. From the tranquil Japanese Kyoto Garden to the Dutch Gardens. You can explore your way around and you may even see a few peacocks. There is a playground for the kids to enjoy as well as a cafe. You are also not too far from Notting Hill and it’s shops and markets.

Regents Park – Central London

There is plenty to keep kids entertained at Regents Park. Firstly, you are next to London Zoo and there are children’s playgrounds to have fun in as well as pedalos to enjoy on summer’s days. There are often performances taking place and there is plenty of wildlife to see as well as cafes to sit back and take a break in.

Hampstead Heath – North West London

This grassy space sits astride a sandy ridge, one of the highest points in London, running from Hampstead to Highgate. The area is buggy-friendly and there are playgrounds at Parliament Hill with activities for babies and primary school aged children. There is also a paddling pool and a cafe.

Kew Gardens With Kids

https://www.kew.org/kew-gardens

The botanical gardens at Kew provide a great day out with kids. You have to book tickets for entry to the gardens but could easily spend hours there. As well as the glass houses and plants, you can see the pagoda, the hive and play in the lovely play area which has tunnels, slides, a sand pit and climbing areas.

Coram’s Fields

https://www.coramsfields.org/

93 Guilford St, London WC1N 1DN

Coram’s Fields is a large urban open space in Camden which is open all year round for children under 16 years old. The park has an exciting mix of play equipment for all ages from toddlers to older children. The adventure play area has a zip line, a witch’s hat swing and one of the largest slides in town. There is also a sensory area and a music area.

St James Park

London SW1A 2BJ

St James Park is right next to Buckingham Palace, alongside a lake and the park is home to several pelicans and other animals, including ducks, squirrels and other birds. The park’s restaurant has a children’s menu, you can pay to rent a deck chair and there are refreshment points and children’s toilets available by the playground.

Princess Diana Memorial Playground

Kensington gardens.

The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground is a memorial to Diana, Princess of Wales in Kensington Gardens. The playground’s centrepiece is a wooden pirate ship, and it also includes a sensory trail, teepees, a beach around the pirate ship and various play sculptures. The Broad Walk Café serves a range of food and there are also toilets, including disabled and baby change facilities.

Crystal Palace Park – SE London

https://www.crystalpalaceparktrust.org/

Thicket Rd, London SE19 2GA

There is plenty to do at Crystal Palace Park including seeing the giant dinosaur statues of the ‘Dinosaur Court’ that have been there since 1854. There is also a boating lake, a children’s playground, a maze and a skate park.

London W2 2UH

Kensington Gardens, once the private gardens of Kensington Palace, are among the Royal Parks of London. There is lots to see and do, including the Princess Diana Memorial Playground and fountains, you could even take a dip in the Serpentine Lido!

Hyde Park – Central London

Hyde Park is one of London’s biggest landscapes and covers over 350 acres with plenty to keep you busy. The 110 yard Serpentine Lido and its paddling pool are great for children and families and there are many playgrounds within the park. The South Carriage Drive Playground is an exciting and adventurous play space that sits on the southern boundary of Hyde Park.

Richmond Park – SW London

https://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/richmond-park

Richmond Park is the largest of London’s Royal Parks and is home to a large population of deer. The Petersham Gate Playground has been designed to be used by children of all ages. It features a sandpit, climbing frames, balancing blocks, an elephant xylophone and a water play feature. You can also take a walk through the Isabella Plantation and see all of the beautiful flowers.

Greenwich Park – SE London

London SE10 8QY

Greenwich Park has a huge play area which has a maritime theme, the playground appeals to all ages and abilities and includes climbing areas, swings, roundabouts, slides and a sand and water play area. There are toilets and a refreshments kiosk nearby.

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park – East London

https://www.queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk/the-park/venues/parklands-and-playgrounds/playgrounds-and-fountains

The Tumbling Bay playground features rock pools, sand pits, tall treehouses, and wobbly bridges, as well as slides, swings and plenty of space to run about. Timber Lodge café has a range of fresh, home-cooked food and drink.In the south of the park are gigantic red rocks, broad slides, oversized swings and even a giant sand pit as well as fountains.

Tumbling Bay Playground

Next time we are in London, I’d love to visit Tumbling Bay Playground located in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Not only would it allow us adults to visit the Olympic Park, something we haven’t done yet, but it would allow our son to have lots of fun. From interactive fountains to climbing walls, there is so much for toddlers and young kids to enjoy at Tumbling Bay Playground.

There are plenty of traditional swings and slides alongside rock pools and sand pits, that you could find yourself there for hours or stuck trying to drag your toddler away. And, if you are there for a few hours, you can enjoy a cuppa while the kids play at the Timber Lodge, a community centre and café which serves fresh, home-cooked meals and plenty of drinks.

London with  a Toddler

These are by no means the only things to do in London with a toddler. There are numerous other free museums you can take them, such as the Museum of Childhood, and other attractions that might be of interest include the Wax Museum. Did you know there are also farms within London to visit with toddlers such as the Vauxhall City Farm? And of course, you could always take them to Hamleys for a treat.

There are plenty of child-friendly  walks along south bank London  too. The attractions I’ve chosen to highlight are either those we have visited with our son as a toddler or are those high on our London to-do list with him, even while he is still young. London has a wealth of places to visit with toddlers and you shouldn’t put off visiting this great city just because of toddlers. They too can enjoy the city, so long as you take things a little slower and plan a few visits to places they can enjoy as children.

GO ON, PIN IT

London with a Toddler GUEST POST

Cath is an Irish expat who now lives in Portugal with her husband and son. A former scientist, she gave up working when they emigrated south after 15 years in the UK. She is a family travel blogger and hopes that, through her blog, they will inspire more families to travel, especially with the toddlers in tow. As a family they love travelling and have started working their way through their family travel bucket list. Cath writes about their family travels and experiences on her blog Passports and Adventures .

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5 thoughts on “45 Amazing Things to do in London with a Toddler in 2022”

I didn’t know about Tumbling Bay Playground! great idea to get out and about!

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Hi, I’m Anna, a travel loving wife to Tristan and Mother to 6 year old twins Poppy and Tabitha, their 3 year old sister Matilda, and together we are Twins and Travels.

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The ultimate guide to visiting London with kids

Mar 15, 2024 • 9 min read

Make the most of your family holiday with this guide to travel in London with kids © Ahmani Vidal / Getty Images

London is an expensive city to visit and one that’s large and sometimes difficult to navigate. But, it's also packed with fascinating historic sights, bags of culture, world-class museums, parks and wide-open spaces with excellent playgrounds, and plenty of things to occupy children of all ages.

The permanent collections at many museums and art galleries are free to enter (donations welcome) and they generally offer some kind of audio guide or experience aimed specifically at families. For older children, London’s Harry Potter connections tend to be popular, and with so many different exhibitions and theater performances, there is something to align with the passions of every tween and teen. 

Here's everything you need to know about visiting the English capital with tots in tow.

Is London good for kids?

In a word, yes! Londoners may not seem particularly kid-friendly at first, but if you need a hand carrying a stroller up an unexpected flight of stairs, someone will almost always stop to lend a hand. 

While central London can feel hectic during peak hour, with workers rushing to and from work (or in the height of summer's peak visitor season when popular attractions will be crowded) London does have plenty of pockets of serenity. There are parks and gardens throughout the city to take a break with kids. Get to popular sights early in the day (the earlier the better) to avoid queues, and note that some sight require pre-booking even if they're free. If you're looking for somewhere to eat, loads of major chain restaurants (and pubs) offer good-value children's menus with a drink and dessert included.

Where is best in London for kids

London’s South Bank  offers endless family entertainment. In the summer months bring a change of clothes, as your kids are likely to make a beeline for  Southbank Centre 's fountains. The London Eye provides high-up views over the river to Big Ben and beyond, and the  Sea Life London Aquarium , with a shark tunnel and penguin area, is particularly popular with younger kids. Shrek’s Adventure is a 90-minute theme park experience centered around the fairy tales in the Shrek movies. If you have teens who enjoy being scared, they will get a kick out of the creative presentation of gory historical events at the London Dungeon .

Heading further east, learn about the role HMS Belfast played in WWII while climbing down below the river’s water level and shuffling along tiny corridors (not easily done with toddlers or babies in prams). When you get hungry, head to  Borough Market  to discover a wealth of food options from kid-friendly fish 'n' chips and ice cream to paella and oysters. 

Greenwich in southeast London is a small area with good options for kids of all ages. It can be reached by train or the DLR, but it’s much more fun to take the Thames Clipper from central London to Greenwich Pier. Younger kids are likely to love the massive adventure playground in Greenwich Park, with sand, water play, and plenty to climb on.

Learn what life was like on board a 19th-century tea clipper at the Cutty Sark . For even more naval experiences, head to the National Maritime Museum (there’s a great gallery aimed at children aged seven and under called Ahoy!). The Royal Observatory on the hill offers a chance for older kids to explore space and time. Grab lunch at a stall in the food market , or head for one of the many chain restaurants.

Best things to do in London with babies and toddlers

Tour london's top parks and playgrounds.

London is a surprisingly green city, with a lot of large open spaces . Regent’s Park is the biggest and most elaborate of central London’s many Royal Parks. Among its many attractions are London Zoo, Regent’s Canal , an ornamental lake, and grass pitches where locals meet to play sports. Rent a pedal boat  on the Serpentine in Hyde Park , and run free in one of London’s best playgrounds , Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground, in nearby Kensington Gardens .

Here kids will be delighted by the large pirate ship, waterplay, and sandpits. A wander through St James’s Park  is worthwhile for its lovely gardens and great views of London icons, such as the London Eye and Buckingham Palace .

Come face-to-face with a dino at the Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum  is a colossal and magnificent building housing 80 million specimens from the natural world, with displays on everything from the human body to rare fossils and gems. Hintze Hall, at the center of the museum, is home to an awe-inspiring blue whale skeleton that hangs from the ceiling. This is also where pre-schoolers seek out Andy's Clock, the magical time-traveling device from CBeebies TV show  Andy's Prehistoric Adventures .

The Dinosaur Gallery is packed with info and skeletons of many different dinosaurs and is a big hit with kids. The absolute highlight here is the animatronic T-rex that swings its colossal tail and flexes its jaws while roaring at the gathered crowd (beware: it can be genuinely frightening for little people). The museum is also home to the ever-popular Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibit, showcasing the fragile natural beauty of our planet through 100 photos.

Learn about conservation at London Zoo

Regent’s Park is home to the oldest zoo in the world , dating from 1828. The emphasis nowadays is firmly on conservation, breeding and education, with fewer animals and bigger enclosures. Highlights include Land of the Lions, Gorilla Kingdom, Night Life, Penguin Beach and the walk-through In with the Lemurs. There are regular feeding sessions and talks, various experiences are available, such as Keeper for a Day, and you can even spend the night in one of nine Gir Lion Lodge cabins.

Best things to do in London with kids

Have a hands-on experience in the science museum's best galleries.

The Science Museum  in Kensington  brings themes such as space, flight and climate change to life with a series of hands-on exhibits and virtual displays. Get close to a space module, track the history of aviation, and learn about the importance of ice in the Antarctic. For younger children aged three to six, head to  The Garden  in the basement. This free interactive gallery allows for construction with blocks and cranes, and sensory exploration with sound, touch, and water play.

Those aged six and above will be enthralled by the liquids, magnets, smoke and light that they can play with in the different zones of  Wonderlab on the top floor. Science Museum "Explainers" will merrily chat with youngsters about anything from how a bubble is formed to how planets move around in the solar system, as well as running live demos and experiments showing science in action.

Go to family-friendly theater shows

Big productions aimed at families include Matilda the Musical at Cambridge Theatre, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at Palace Theatre, and Disney’s The Lion King at Lyceum Theatre. Tickets need to be booked well in advance, especially if you're on a budget .

It’s often easier to get tickets to smaller productions at theaters away from the West End. Consider Unicorn Theatre near the South Bank or Little Angel Theatre in Islington, where all performances are aimed at youngsters. The Southbank Centre also runs family performances, particularly during local school holidays.

See wax creations of your fave celebs at Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds , packed with waxwork likenesses of all kinds of famous people – from royals to sports personalities – may be kitschy and pricey, but it makes for a fun-filled day. Music-loving teens can grab photo ops with top current singers, including Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, Rihanna, and One Direction, and even legends such as Bob Marley and Freddie Mercury. Young movie fans may want to visit the heroes and villains of Star Wars , stand with Katniss Everdeen, or see E.T. up close. Book online in advance for the best rates, and then look out for your favorite celebrity. 

The V&A Museum of Childhood is a toy-filled wonderland

Housed in a purpose-built Victorian-era building, this branch of the Victoria & Albert Museum is aimed at both kids (with play areas, interactive exhibits and dressing-up boxes) and nostalgic grown-ups who come to admire the antique toys. From teddies, doll’s houses and dolls to Meccano, Lego and computer games, it’s a wonderful toy-cupboard trip down memory lane. It's free to enter and has recently undergone a major refurbishment to make it an even more exciting location that's focused entirely on fun for young adventurers.

Best things to do in London with tweens and teenagers

Follow a trail to see the treasures of the british museum.

The displays at the  British Museum spark the imaginations of visitors of all ages, with displays of Egyptian mummies, buried treasures from Anglo-Saxon times, and Samurai armor. There are various worksheets, activities and trails designed specifically for younger visitors covering different themes within the museum. You can follow the " Twelve objects to see with children" trail  with tweenagers for a whistle-stop tour of the highlights of the museum, or perhaps the "One hour at the museum" trail before self-declared teenage "boredom" sets in. 

Take a boat ride along the Thames

At some point it's really worth taking a cruise along the Thames to spot some of London’s icons. If your kids love a thrill, Thames Rockets  has rigid inflatable boats that zip along the river and back from the London Eye Pier (go prepared to get wet). For a more leisurely approach to sightseeing, take the Uber Boat by Thames Clipper , a riverboat commuter service stopping at piers throughout the city from Woolwich down to Putney.

Admire the Houses of Parliament , speed under the Millennium Bridge (destroyed by Death Eaters in the opening scenes of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince ) and catch a glimpse of St Paul’s Cathedral . As you pass the  Tower of London , look for the Traitors’ Gate at river level where prisoners entered the Tower, before whizzing underneath the impressive Victorian  Tower Bridge .

Planning tips

As with any large city, dragging small kids around in London can be exhausting for everyone. Staying realistic about how much you can see in a day and being flexible with your schedule is the key to keeping everyone happy.

Unfortunately, London is not particularly easy to navigate with a stroller or for anyone with accessibility needs. Even Tube stations with step-free access often have a big gap between the train and the platform, and you can end up walking a long way through the underground network before reaching the platform you need.

Buses are often a better options for getting around central London  at least. Better still, divide your visit into neighborhoods and walk between sites to minimize your time fighting the often frustrating transport system.

Note: children under 11 travel for free with a fare-paying adult. You can get a discounted Visitor Oyster cards for children aged 12 to 16 by asking a staff member to add a "Young Visitor" discount to your Oyster card at a London tube or train station. Over the age of 16, your child will be paying the adult rate. 

This article was first published March 2015 and updated March 2024

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25+ Fun Things To Do In London With A Toddler

Looking for the best things to do in London with a toddler? We have all the bases covered for our pint sized little ones.

Whether you are living locally, or visiting London with a toddler, there is plenty to discover. From the incredibly toddler friendly Discovery Centre in Stratford, to museums in Central London, not to mention the open green parks to run around.

Having lived in the city with my kids for most of their lives, we have been lucky enough to check out what every corner of London has to offer! We’ve hand selected the best places for you to check out with a tot.

In case you are a tourist in the city, you can check out family friendly hotel recommendations in London here . We also have a specific post for kids , Halloween and Christmas .

Things to do in London for Toddlers

1. the discovery centre.

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If you are visiting London with a toddler The Discovery Centre is my top pick of places to visit. It is a little out of town in the East End of London’s Stratford area.

You will find the Westfield Mall in the area which is one of the cities biggest malls. Also in Stratford is the Queen Elizabeth Park and Stratford Wetlands which are great spaces for a walk after.

The Discover Centre is a super stimulating venue where different well-known stories come to life with characters and surroundings.

The story changes throughout the year and also has a spacecraft as well as an outdoor story garden. With two floors of immersive spaces, offering some super fun things to do in London with a Toddler.

2. Shrek’s Adventure London

Shrek’s Adventure London is where little ones can see the beloved charactes of the franchise.

Step into the mythical kingdom filled with surprises, and interactive storytelling that captivates tots!

From meeting Shrek himself to encountering familiar faces like Donkey and Princess Fiona, this enchanting day out on Londons Southbank is perfect for the entire family.

Check out Shrek’s Adventure London.

3. Sea Life London Aquarium

The Sea Life London Aquarium is a great place for toddlers on London’s Southbank. It has many fish species and marine life exhibits, not to mention the chance to get up close to some adorable creatures.

In addition to presentations and activities throughout the day, they also have a number of interactive exhibits for children. Aquariums are always a hit with the kids especially if you are looking for things to do in London with a Toddler.

Dive into the wonders of the ocean at SEA LIFE London.

4. The London Eye

The London Eye takes around 30 minutes to go around. It rotates and displays some of the city’s most iconic landmarks such as, The Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey.

Whilst you can take your stroller onto the London Eye, it needs to remain folded. The pod is completely safe to walk around for your toddler to explore.

The pace is very sedate, and you can hardly tell you’re moving; yet suddenly, they were soaring high above the trees!

There have previously been events with story telling specifically for children under 5 on board the London Eye so it is worth checking if this is happening when you visit. You can enjoy taking in the sites whilst your little one is entertained.

Children under the age of three go free at the London Eye so you may as well make the most of it!

5. Natural History Museum and Science Museum

Two of Londons most popular museums are completely toddler friendly! South Kensington’s Natural History Museum and Science Museum provide toddlers with a fun filled day, not to mention they are free!

The Natural History Museum’s exhibits are not just standstill museums full of fossils! It’s vibrant and fascinating for toddlers with dinosaurs that roar and journeys into the centre of the planet.

Across the street at the Science Museum, the biggest hit with toddlers is in the basement where you’ll find the garden & water play area. Don’t forget to bring a change of clothes for this as our tot definitely got wet.

Imagine dams, water fountains, rivers and boats. Little ones will gain an understanding of how water makes things work!

It gets busy on the weekend so mid-week mornings is a fantastic time to visit. You will have the chance to make the most of it without too many people around.

Also in The Science Museum is a paid experiment section. We have been a few times with our toddler and it is definitely worth it.

There are both experiment demonstrations and little ones can do their own experiments too. Kids love the big slide in this paid part of the museum.

if you are on a budget , it is not a necessity to visit this area but it is a lovely addition! Neither the Natural History Museum nor the Science Museum charge admission.

However, the admission fee and pre-booked tickets may be required for some temporary exhibitions and events. They do ask for a donation, however this is not mandatory.

If you are specifically interested in free activities in London check out this post .

Location: Natural History Museum: Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD, United Kingdom

Location: Science Museum: Exhibition Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 2DD, United Kingdom

6. London Transport Museum

Out of all of the museums in the capital, The London Transport Museum is one of the top things to do in London with a Toddler. It offers activities to do for families with toddlers and older children.

Based in Covent Garden, it is in a great location to explore the area before or after your visit. The museum has a play zone where they can pretend to fly a plane , drive a bus, or operate a tube. 

This museum is not just for kids . Adults find it fascinating to follow along 200 years of history to understand how London transportation has changed over time.

Kids will especially love the huge collection of over 80 historic vehicles, most of which are open to try out!

With your help, they can climb aboard the life-sized London transport relics and sit in the driver’s seat to enjoy the view.

There is a dedicated kids ‘All Aboard Area’ with themed play stations for the under-7’s. The area also has soft play for toddlers.

Tickets for the museum are available online for savings on adult admission. Children under 18 are free! See what special programs are being offered during school breaks by checking the London Transport Museum’s calendar.  

If you live in London, it’s quite cost effective to buy an annual pass.

Book tickets to the London Transport Museum here.

Location: The Piazza, London WC2E 7BB, United Kingdom

7. The Horniman Museum

The Horniman Museum is located in the South East of London, only a short walk from Forest Hill station.

With its outdoor areas stretching over 16 acres, The Horniman Museum is a great place for children and toddlers. It includes a nature trail as well as interactive exhibits to keep toddlers occupied.

The most unique and noteworthy feature of this museum is its butterfly garden. It’s very warm inside and has some fantastic species of butterflies from Central and South America.

I’m really amazed at how magical it is inside and how much kids and toddlers can learn about the lifecycle of a butterfly. From the larvae hatching to the fluorescent blue butterflies swooshing by, they can see each stage of the process!

Besides being an educational experience, visiting the Horniman Museum is high in the list of fun things to do with toddlers in London.

There is also a free farm and an aquarium for children to enjoy. The outdoor gardens have always been a hit with our little ones.

Location: 100 London Rd, London SE23 3PQ, United Kingdom

8. The National Maritime Museum

One of the best toddler-friendly things to do in Greenwich is to visit the National Maritime Museum.

As its name implies, it houses exhibits related to sea history and other sea-related exhibits. The historical building forms part of a world heritage site and is completely free to enter. 

AHOY is the best part of the museum for toddlers, offering an interactive play area where they can climb, play, pretend to be sailors and learn about the world around them through toddler-friendly exhibits.

The play area is free during the week and it’s just a matter of turning up. Weekends, however, require you to make a reservation and pay.

I recommend visiting this museum during the week if you are planning to spend a few days in London.

The museum has something for everyone, including plenty of sensory fun for babies and toddlers.

If you fancy a scenic walk after the Maritime Museum, you can head to the Royal Observatory Deck where you will get some stunning panoramic views of London.

Location: Romney Rd, London SE10 9NF, United Kingdom

9. The Tate Modern

The Tate Modern is an essential stop on any London trip. With its fantastic FREE display of modern art, the Tate Modern is a great place for families with toddlers to visit.

Based on the South Bank of the River Thames, it’s easily accessible and lots of fun! There are lots of events geared specifically towards families, with interactive artworks and workshops for kids of all ages.

You will be sure to keep your toddlers entertained for a few hours with doodle drawing bars, funky displays, and more.

Check out The Tates free events .

Location: SE1 9TG, London, United Kingdom

10. The National Army Museum

Another one of the great days out for toddlers in London is The National Army Museum .

It might not be the first place you think of to bring a toddler to in London. However, after its recent renovation it’s become a fantastic place to visit.

The facility includes interactive playground zones, soft play areas are designed for children under the age of six.

It also has themed activities and obstacle courses for toddlers to run through and burn off some energy while learning about the Army’s history.

Location: Royal Hospital Rd, London SW3 4HT, United Kingdom

11. The Planetarium

The Planetarium in Greenwich Park has a specific show for toddlers. It is just a short showing so is ideal for smaller children with shorter attention spans.

Ted and his friend Plant take kids through the solar system in a fun way suitable for younger ones. With 360 degree dome views, it is most certainly a fantastic sensory experience.

The show is educational and will ignite a love for all things space in kids. The Planetarium is very close to The National Maritime Museum so is ideal to combine the two with also enjoying Greenwich Park.

Head into Greenwich Town after for a stroll around town and pick up some lunch in the food markets.

12. Thames Clipper Boat

If you need to head back west after visiting Greenwich take the Thames Clippers all the way back to Waterloo.

Along the way you will see the skyline of Londons iconic sites such as Canary Wharf, The Shard, The London Eye and Big Ben. You will also sail underneath Tower Bridge.

It is an affordable alternative to a boat tour of the Thames and another nice option when looking for things to do in London with a toddler.

13. Kensington Gardens

Kensington Gardens Playground is actually called the “Diana Memorial Playground”. This playground takes its inspiration from Peter Pan!

A tribute to Princess Diana who loved the innocence of childhood, the centre piece is a Pirate Ship where kids can play and explore. It is one of the best toddler playgrounds in London.

The park is only open to kids up to 12 years old to make sure everyone stays safe.

Among the equipment of the playground are wooden climbing structures, a massive pirate ship surrounded by sand, tree carvings and a sensory trail. Not to mention the Serpentine Lake and many other toddler-friendly attractions.

14. Hyde Park

Hyde Park is certainly one of the more centrally located parks in London. Just off the West End of Oxford Street sits this vast open green space with lakes, cafes, and sprawling green fields.

There are many trees to shade the winding pathways on a hot day. The South Carriage Drive Playground is a great place for kids to burn off some energy.

In the centre of the park you can rent pedal boats on a nice day. There is plenty to do and as always, I highly recommend bringing a picnic!

Location: GR4M+WP London, United Kingdom

15. Holland Park

Holland Park is a fantastic park in Kensington, not far from all the museums. It sits on the grounds of Cope Castle, which is now home to the Ecology Centre.

If you want to unwind and just chill check out the fish pond and Kyoto gardens. The landscape is very serene with shoals of fish swimming and wildlife roaming around.

You could head to play in the adventure playground for toddlers. It has an enclosed area so its is perfect for running around.

Despite its size, the park is quite large and each area has something unique to discover, including a tortoise sundial.

In summer, there are often performances on the lawn. Make sure to check ahead on their website if there is anything fun happening when you visit.

There is also a lovely cafe where you can grab a bite to eat. Located near High Street Kensington Station, Holland Park is free to enter and in a beautiful part of London.

Location: Ilchester Pl, London W8 6LU, United Kingdom

16. Battersea Park

Since I live south of the river, Battersea Park has been one of the most frequent parks we have visited. While it’s not as centrally located as Hyde Park, Victoria is only a short stroll away.

Battersea Park offers a variety of activities, including a Go Ape treetop experience , a small zoo, bike rentals with carousels for kids and beautiful gardens.

One of the more adventurous things to do in London with kids is the Go Ape. It is a tree top rope adventure. We have previously taken our 3 year old to do this so will really depend on if your little one would like it or not.

Battersea has some perfect paved walkways, ideal for scooting, biking or pushing your stroller around the park. If you like Cherry Blossoms, Battersea Park is a stunning place to snap some shots in spring.

There are two playgrounds in Battersea Park. The one on the east side of the park close to the lake is better for toddlers. The playground on the other side has some huge slides and more climbing required so best suited to older kids.

Location: London SW11 4NJ, United Kingdom

17. St. James Park

St. James Park is an iconic experience for toddlers, where you can see Buckingham Palace just outside the northern end. Marvel at the blooming flowers and bustling atmosphere.

This park also has a great playground with mounds, slides and climbing frames ideal for toddlers. It does get busy during school holidays and weekends so best to visit mid-week.

If you visit St James Park, make sure to check out the Pelicans. They were gifted hundreds of years ago by the Russian Ambassador. They are quite unique in London so are a must see!

Location: 121 Hartington Rd, London E17 8AS, United Kingdom

18. Regents Park

Regents Park is situated on Baker St, surrounded by lavish houses of international ambassadors. It certainly is an area of wealth and grandeur.

Regents Park has plenty to offer, including a large playground for toddlers, peddle boats in the summer for the family and open air theatre shows.

Most of the park is perfectly manicured and pristinely maintained with landscaped gardens. It has to be one of London’s prettiest parks, with rows of colourful flowers and tree-lined paths.

Location: GRJV+G6 London, United Kingdom

19. Kew Gardens

London’s Kew Garden , located in West London, has long been recommended in many travel guides. There is a lot to see so allow an entire day to visit.

Kew Gardens has a Children’s Sensory Garden. This garden is especially designed for children from 2 to 12 years old. It is the perfect place to hang out on a summers day. You may need a change of clothes for your little ones since there is some water.

The space is beautifully designed with themes such as sun, air and as mentioned water features. I find the space to be so tranquil and it is a wonderful addition to the gardens.

It’s worth noting you must purchase tickets separately to access the children’s garden. Go early and enjoy all the natural sensory play on offer.

To book a ticket to Kew Gardens click here.

Location: FPH3+FQ Richmond, United Kingdom

If you are in the Richmond Area, head for a walk along the Thames River in the town after.

20. Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park is an incredible place to visit with an array of activities. From the Royal Observatory Deck, to the Maritime Museum, Cutty Sark and the Planetarium. There is lots going on in and around the area.

I’m sure you’ve heard of Greenwich Mean Time which is essentially the solar time at the Royal Observatory Deck.

For this reason Greenwich does tend to attract lots tourists. This is a beautiful green space that includes both wild areas and manicured spaces.

With easy climbing frames and play areas targeted towards toddlers and pre-school children, Greenwich Park Playground is best suited for kids 1 – 7 years of age.

Location: London SE10 8QY, United Kingdom

Right next to The London Eye is a huge playground which is perfect for smaller children. You can also walk along the South Bank where there is always buskers and entertainment throughout the week.

Throughout the year, the area around The London Eye transforms. With Christmas Markets in the Winter and Summer festivities throughout the warmer months. It is most certainly an area to visit even if you don’t ride on the Eye!

Location: GV3J+74 London, United Kingdom

21. The Emirates Airline Cable Car

The Emirates Cable Car spans from Greenwich across the River Thames to the Docklands!

Providing sweeping views of the Millennium Dome, Canary Wharf, and parts of central London, it’s definitely a mode of transport worth checking out. Little ones under 5 go free with a paying adult!

Prior to boarding, strollers must be collapsed and your toddler must be secured in a front-facing baby harness.

The epic gondola trip at sunset is highly recommended if you can push through the witching hour! It really is such a beautiful tranquil trip when the sun is setting.

Location: 27 Western Gateway, London E16 1FA, United Kingdom

22. Interactive Concert With London Symphony Orchestra Musicians

Situated on St Lukes Old Street in East London is the Symphony Orchestra. The resident musicians at The London Symphony Orchestra put on interactive shows for under 5s and it is such a hit with local families & tourists!

Kids get to meet angry trolls, greedy crocodiles and singing bears throughout the even. There is lots of singings and dancing brining stories to life.

Tickets for adults cost £7 whilst kids over the age of 1 cost £5 for some events. There are other regular events like family concert and Monday morning early year workshops.

It’s such a great way to introduce little ones to instruments and different sounds!

Check out The London Symphony Orchestra family events here.

23. The Museum Of London

The Museum of London is another East End activity. They have lots of free things for kids and toddlers including an activity backpack they can use to explore the museum which they are loaned on arrival.

The venue also features tail trails, activity sheets and games. There are areas to picnic on site as well as cafes and restaurants. If you are in the East End of London, you could also check out The Barbican Conservatory.

24. The Barbican

The Barbican Conservatory is an incredible indoor garden to wander around in the East End of London. It’s a leafy sanctuary with birds, fish and tropical plants to discover. It is the prefect place to have a stroll around for an hour if you are planning to visit the area.

Also in Barbican, kids under 12 eat free with a paying adult. Not to mention the family film club held on a Saturday morning. You will come across drop-in family exhibits and sessions regularly. Barbican is a great place to visit!

With classical music events, art & design, cinema, a library and so much more, there is something for everyone at The Barbican.

25. Toddler Rave

There are a number of companies which run raves for families! I know that sounds totally crazy but they are fantastic events. They are mostly on weekends, especially over festive holiday periods .

With lots of acitvites and play areas, bubbles, streamers, balloons and some oldie tunes for parents, they are really enjoyed by the whole family.

Check out the Rave Tots or The Big Fish Little Fish website for events happening during your visit.

26. Go Boat London

Go Boat London are self-drive electric boats which start at Paddington and can be taken along the canals all the way to Camden Town.

It is such a tranquil way of seeing some unseen parts of the city. There are parts you will need to duck down low as you pass through some very long old tunnels! You will also pass through London Zoo where you will see monkeys swinging in the trees above.

You are given a specific map to follow and it is fairly easy to navigate. The boat has a table in the centre so ideal for bringing a picnic. There is Marks and Spencers right near the start so you can pick up some British favourites before you set off. This is one of our top things to do in London with a toddler.

They give everyone a life jacket and kids a sailor hat. Go Boat also quite often have events such as pumpkin hunting just before halloween. This is usually the last event of the season before it gets too cold!

It is one of those activities that is most certainly worth booking ahead to avoid disappointment. They also have another route out west in Kingston which is a beautiful historical town in Greater London.

Check out Go Boat here.

27. Afternoon Tea With A Toddler

Taking a toddler to afternoon tea doesn’t sound like something that would be that enjoyable. However there are a number of places which specifically tailor high tea to small children around the city.

Quite often, it is based around a well known book or character. Take for example The Tiger Who Came To Tea at The Savoy or Science Experiment themed tea at The Ampersand Hotel.

At The Ampersand, small planet cakes, tiny sandwiches, not to mention ‘potions’ in test tubes with mini explosions are served. The afternoon tea was such a hit with our two young kids!

Parents can enjoy a glass of bubbly or a nice caffeine fix ( we all need one right) whilst also enjoying some of the great food.

if you visit The Ampersand, it is very close to The Science Museum, so it could be the perfect lunch after a morning exploring.

Seasonal Activities For Toddlers In London

Both Summer and Winter are great times to visit London. Although in winter you will need lots of layers and pit stops for warm drinks if you intend to be outside a lot.

That being said, there are plenty of indoor activities in London like the museums.

If you are visiting London in summer, there are a tonne of fun water fountains around the city. You will find some at:

• Queen Elizabeth Park, Stratford
• Diana Memorial Fountain, Hyde Park
• Outside the Southbank Centre
• Granary Square, Kings Cross
• Next to Tower Bridge on the south side of the river
• Somerset House

The summer can get quite hot in London so it is worth bringing some swimmers or a change of clothes to cool off. There are also several outdoor lidos around the city if you are looking for things to do in London with a toddler in summer.

• Tooting Bec Lido
• Brixton Lido
• Parliament Hill Lido
• Charlotte Lido

Winter In London With A Toddler

London is a winter wonderland in the lead up to Christmas. We have a specific post about Christmas in London with little ones which is worth checking out. From the stunning festive lights which illuminate the city to the decorations, it is incredible!

In Hyde Park you will find Winter Wonderland where there are lots of festive rides and shows throughout December. We have previously seen a Paddington On Ice Show with our toddler and she loved it!

The shows and performances change year on year so just check their site to see what’s on.

Also in the city, Covent Garden and Leicester Square gets incredibly festive with buskers, markets and so much more. It is usually possible to see Santa in one of these two locations.

If you can manage to venture to the outskirts of London, you can pick up a festive Christmas Train Ride . They are usually lit up with festive lights and there are plenty of festivities on board with Santa making guest appearances.

Eating Out With Toddlers in London

The cost of eating out in London can be high, however there are some really good chains and independent restaurants catering to families.

It’s always nice to have a little variety catering to kids, not to mention a menu that is affordable.

A lot of restaurants offer a free kids meal per paying adult during school breaks. You may also come across this kind of deal at some airport restaurants too.  

We also appreciate restaurants that go the extra mile to keep kids entertained. The last thing you want is to gobble down your meal because your little one is getting restless.

Reserving on Open Table is highly recommended to save you the worry of finding a table, especially during the peak hours at tourist hot spots.

Not all restaurants in London are toddler friendly, however here are few we have found great with kids over the years!

Giraffe’s kid’s menu is designed to keep the kids’ tastes and interests in mind. It is quite affordable since they know your toddler isn’t going to eat a large portion. They have a good selection of mains and deserts for kids too!

Location: Multiple locations across London

The Inamo restaurant is a unique pan Asian eatery with several locations around the city. There are tons of healthy vegan options at Inamo, as well as really lovely noodle dishes that both my kids enjoy.

One of the best things about Inamo is the kids sit still during the entire meal! The table surface is actually an interactive screen where they can play games and watch chef cam!

Yes, you can watch your food being cooked right at your table! I know, it sounds bizarre, but it is such a unique experience.

They can also draw pictures, graffiti the table and discover the local neighbourhood, Inamo is a true favourite of ours.

Location: Multiple locations across London.

Jungle Cave

The Jungle Cave family restaurant is an immersive rainforest experience. With all sorts of life-like animals surrounding your table, it is an experience not be missed by animal-loving kids.

Although the food is not up my alley, with predominantly pastas, burgers and grilled meats, they do offer some vegan options. There’s no doubt that it’s all about the experience, and if you like the foods mentioned above, you’ll love it.

Location: 20-24 Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 7EU, United Kingdom

Pizza Express

I highly recommend Pizza Express if you are looking for an all-around family-friendly chain restaurant. It may not be a high-end restaurant but it has a really great kids’ menu for a very reasonable price.

Its usually our go-to restaurant when we are out looking for things to do in London with a toddler.

Kids meals cost just £7.50 for three courses, and we are always happy to find vegan options!

The pizzas and salads for adults are always delicious. It’s an all-around affordable family meal. Further discounts are also available on Voucher UK.

Using a fun activity booklet, colouring pens and a paper chef’s hat, kids are well and truly entertained while Mom and Dad finish their food!

The London Pass

As you may know London can be quite an expensive city to visit. Whilst there are lot of of free things to do in the city , you can make a tonne of savings on some of the best things to do in London with a toddler by getting a London Pass .

There are plenty of London toddler attractions on the pass. Everything from the Tower of London, to the many museums.

Using the pass on your phone is super easy by downloading their app. You can make use of the ‘add ons’ such as citywide travel to avoid having to tap in and out with your debit card every time you use transport.

The London Pass operates on consecutive days rather than a 24 hour window, hence, I would suggest starting your day early to make the most of it. The only thing you have to do is choose the number of consecutive days you want.

Choosing a longer pass duration will save you additional money. They come in 1,2,3,6 and 10 consecutive day options. It is a great value for money and a lot of people we know have used them when visiting and looking for things to do in London with a Toddler.   

Click here to learn more about the London Pass.

Renting Equipment and Toys for Toddlers

No travelling family wants to bring lots of luggage. However there may be times you need a few hours of down time in your accommodation. There are rental companies where you can hire everything from a stroller to a box of toys.

I recommend renting a box of toys if you are staying in London for a few days and need a little entertainment to keep the kids occupied in the hotel room.

You may not want to carry toddler car seats and strollers all the way, so this is a great way to make your journey easier while still having your home comforts with you.

Get in touch with London equipment hire.

In Summary…..

The city of London is a multi-cultural melting pot with diverse experiences for all ages. Every member of the family will leave with fond memories of the city, whether they are toddlers, teens, or tweens.

Whether your kids are looking for adrenaline-pumping activities, culture, or science experiments, London is such a fun place to visit.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article. I hope it has been helpful to you. We love hearing from you, so please leave a comment and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

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First Timer’s Guide to London with Kids (+ 17 Things to Do for Families)

By: Author Leslie Harvey

Posted on Published: October 31, 2022

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After a long break from international travel, our family recently hopped across the pond for the kids’ first trip to Europe. We spent a full week of a two week vacation exploring London, England. We were in town just weeks before Queen Elizabeth passed away, so were able to experience some of the final days of her Jubilee Celebration as well as the many offerings the city always has to offer.

My sister lived just outside London with her family the last couple of years so we had a bit of the inside scoop in planning our own trip thanks to her experience (and also thanks to a neighbor of ours who lives part-time in London). But even without the help of locals, we found the city supremely easy to navigate with kids. We found London had a wealth of family-friendly activities as well.

As with all cities, there’s a learning curve. My husband and I had both been to London several times before, but we were seeing the city anew this trip visiting it with kids for the first time. Here are all the basics that other first time visitors to London with kids need to know, from transportation tips to the very best things to do in London with kids.

(Trips With Tykes uses affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through links in this post. See our full disclosure policy linked in the menu at the bottom of this site.)

Getting to London with Kids: Airports & Trains

First things first – if you are a first timer to London, what are the best options for getting there?

Many Americans arrive by air, as London has multiple airport choices and is often used as a gateway city for travelers ultimately planning to visit multiple places in Europe. There are 6 total airports in the London area but the two that North American travelers are most likely to arrive into are:

• London Heathrow (LHR) : The largest international airport in London, Heathrow has non-stop flights to and from nearly every major city all around the world. The airport is served by nearly all major airlines.
• London Gatwick (LGW) : Located south of the city, London’s second largest airport has non-stop flights to several larger North American cities, mostly on JetBlue and British Airways, as well as lots of low cost carriers offering intra-Europe flights.

Related : Tips for Flying EasyJet

If you are coming from elsewhere in Europe, your family may be arriving by train instead of by plane. Most trains from more distant destinations arrive into San Pancras Station (we took the Eurostar out of Saint Pancras station ourselves leaving London to head to Paris next). But trains from many destinations within the United Kingdom come into a number of different stations in the central part of the city.

No matter what station you arrive into, it’s usually a pretty easy connection on the London Tube at that station to get where you need to go (more on local transportation below). The most important thing to note for train arrivals if you are coming from outside the United Kingdom is that Brexit has complicated train travel a bit. You’ll have to clear international borders and likely will need to plan for more time at your departing station than ever before.

Where to Stay in London with Kids

We did an enormous amount of research on where to stay in London with kids, trying to find a perfect combination of location and amenities at the right price ( Related : find out how much a trip to London costs ). The choices in a city so large are likely to be pretty overwhelming to other first time travelers as well.

London is of course quite expensive and many Americans should expect some sticker shock. We live in San Francisco so are pretty accustomed to high hotel prices. We were actually pleasantly surprised to find prices not entirely out of the stratosphere. Even in the high summer season, finding 4+ star accommodations for a family of four in the city center is entirely possible for under $500 a night.

Of course, prices fluctuate quite a bit with the changing exchange rate. Prices have gotten even better for Americans since our visit, as the British pound has reached rough parity with the American dollar as of the date this post is published.

Like elsewhere in Europe, hotel rooms are smaller than might be customary in the United States, and the slate of amenities and furnishings aren’t going to be quite the same. We found that these features were the ones most important to scrutinize in comparing London hotels and lodging:

• Bed types : Many rooms that sleep 4 in London have just two double beds. Can you and your partner share a double? If you have more than one child, can your kids? Look out for family suites or deals for families to get 2 rooms with the second at a discount rate if you need more beds (see, for example, Marriott’s 50% off a 2nd room offer for select London hotels ).
• Air conditioning : England is usually pretty chilly, but if you are visiting during peak summer months like many tourists, you may experience some pretty hot and humid days. Not all hotels and accommodations have AC, so if you need that to be comfortable, check carefully.
• Elevators : Some historic buildings in London do not have “lifts.” We found that some apartment style accommodations would mean dragging suitcases up several flights of stairs. This might not be a great choices for families with younger kids – especially travelers with kids of stroller age.
• Breakfast : A lot of London hotels have excellent breakfasts as an optional add on to your room rate – often at a very reasonable price. Price compare carefully!

We ultimately ended up staying in a one bedroom flat in Mayfair at 9 Hertford Street , which ended up being ideal for our family of four for a week. It had some of the amenities of a hotel, including top notch warm and personable service, with a lot of the conveniences of a larger vacation rental. We ordered grocery delivery from Sainsbury’s to fill our fridge with breakfast foods and snacks and made much use of the washing machine in the flat as well. The property is located within a 7 minute walk of the Green Park tube station. The location was exceptionally convenient, putting us on three Tube lines (Jubilee, Piccadilly, and Victoria).

Other hotels and flats we seriously considered and researched extensively:

• Clermont Hotel, Charing Cross : Located near Charing Cross station, this hotel is also very centrally located. We initially booked and held a Deluxe Family Room, but a Studio Suite would have fit our family as well. Be sure to become a member on the site which entitles you to 10% discounts right away.
• The Cavendish Hotel, London : Idea for families of 3, this hotel makes sofa beds available in its larger rooms to accommodate a third person and also has cribs available. The hotel is close to Mayfair and Piccadilly. Breakfast for kids under 12 is free with a paying adult.
• St. James Hotel & Club : This luxury hotel specializes in interconnecting rooms for families, offering discounts on the second room. We found the Deluxe suite with living area and king bed that interconnected to a superior room with queen size bed was the best fit for our family of 4.
• 10 Curzon Street by Mansley : these serviced apartments are similar to the ones we ultimately chose at 9 Hertford Street. The two bedroom apartments sleep up to four people, but note that the building does not have an elevator.
• Athenaeum London : The priciest option we considered, this luxury hotel in Mayfair has residence style rooms ideal for families (including a California king bed and pop up bunk beds) as well as a children’s concierge.

Getting Around in London with Kids

London has one of the best public transit systems in the world and that’s a major reason it’s an ideal destination for family travelers. Tourists really can easily get anywhere they need to go with minimal time at a cheap fare.

Figuring out the rules and fares is a little tricky (my husband did the deep dive and found this post amazingly helpful). Kids under age 11 travel for free with a paying adult. There are discounts available for older kids and teens as well.

We found that a Travelcard that covered all public transit in Zones 1-2 (£38 for 7 days) covered us for every destination we wanted to visit except Heathrow Airport and a Premier League game in a stadium located outside of the city center. Load the Travelcard as well as additional funds for pay-as-you-go fares onto an Oyster card and the computers apply the best fare for you. We bought a pay-as-you-go Oyster card for my 13 year old daughter, because the Young Person’s discount for ages 11-15 was the cheaper option for her even if we used public transit extensively.

London Underground (the Tube)

London has a massive and extensive subway system (referred to as the Tube) that reaches almost everywhere in the city that tourists are likely to want to go. Trains come every few minutes and are comfortable and safe, albeit crowded during commute hours, as you might expect.

If you are using the Tube with a child 10 and under who travels for free, enter and exit via the handicapped turnstiles which open slowly enough for two people to walk through together. Like a number of places in older cities of Europe, some of the Tube isn’t entirely accessible. If you have babies and toddlers in strollers (especially more than 1), it’s going to be harder to navigate. But I did notice how kind and helpful Londoners were when they saw a parent struggling with a little one on the Tube – multiple people stepped up to assist which was unlike anything I’ve ever seen in a major US city.

London’s famed double decker buses are another easy and convenient public transportation option all over the city. We were blown away by how frequently they ran. We used them mostly as more direct routes between some places when traveling on the Tube would have involved a change to another line or a little bit of a walk to a station. My kids loved going up to the second deck and sitting in the very front row where the windows above the driver give great views of the city streets below. Oyster cards and Travelcards can be used to pay fares on buses just like the Tube – scan is upon entry only.

Hop on, Hop off Bus

Many tourists opt to take a different kind of bus to travel around London – a hop on, hop off. While touristy and not official public transportation, definitely don’t dismiss this as a potential form of transportation. These buses hit a lot of the city’s highlights and offer multiple routes, plus they offer audio commentary to help you learn about the city and get your bearings. Bus companies to consider include Big Bus Tours, City Sightseeing London, and the Tootbus.

Cabs in London aren’t as ubiquitous as they used to be, but there are still plenty of taxis to be had if you prefer a private ride around town. All London black cabs now offer contactless payment options in addition to accepting cash, so they are more flexible than ever.

Uber & Ridesharing

Ridesharing is alive and well in London. There are a couple of companies that Americans may not be familiar with that some locals use, but Uber is truly everywhere as well. We used Uber on several occasions (especially when transporting luggage) and were able to get cars of varying sizes and had fast response times even at off hours.

Best Times to Visit & How Long to Stay in London with Kids

When should you go to London and how long should you stay with kids? The right answer of course first depends on your family’s schedule.

Summer is peak season for family travelers as that is when most kids have substantial time off of school. Of course that means larger crowds and higher prices. But the warm weather is more pleasant than much of the rest of the year, when London can be pretty cold and dreary.

If your family has a more flexible schedule, shoulder season in May and September often has the the right combination of good weather and lower crowds. Spring break is another solid possibility for American visitors. But it can still be quite chilly in March and April, so pack accordingly!

We visited during the first week of August (when English schools are on a break between terms). The weather can be very hot and humid in August some days, which is a down side to this time of year. Because of the school break, however, traffic in the city was more reasonable and most activities were open 7 days a week so it was easy to schedule all the things we wanted to do. Plus, because a lot of US schools go back for the year in early to mid-August, we also found the crush of American tourists had dropped off a lot by the time we visited, which helped with crowds at tourist attractions.

As for how long you need in London, the longer the better! I’d recommend a bare minimum of 3 days in London with kids, but a visit of 5-7 days or more is ideal. Even with our full week in town going pretty much non-stop, we just scratched the surface.

Top 17 Things to Do in London with Kids

So now that the logistics are out of the way, let’s get to the good part. What should you plan to DO while in London with kids?

Few cities in the world have as many iconic attractions and must-dos as London. And so many of these things to do are family-friendly, so you are going to have a hard time picking and choosing.

Start by gathering the family and making a list of everything that interests you. Your list is likely going to be very long. We put all of our family’s choices into Trip Advisor so we could easily see on the map which ones were close to one another and possible to do together in a single day.

Here are 17 of the best things to do in London with kids (with a map to all of them to assist in your navigation and planning).

Some of course will be better for younger kids and some will be better for older kids and teens, so I’ve indicated age recommendations for many of them. Whenever available, I’ve also linked below to standalone articles from bloggers I personally know and trust for more details on each of these attractions if you want to do a deeper dive.

Tower of London

Both of my kids named the Tower of London as one of their favorite stops in London. Built by William the Conquerer over 1000 years ago, the Tower has played a central part in many major events in English history. Must-sees include the Crown Jewels, the Yeoman Warders (elite guards responsible for the Tower’s safekeeping who give engaging must-do tours too!), the ravens, and the Royal Armouries. History comes alive here in engaging ways for kids with tales of battles, torture, and execution among the ancient buildings.

The Tower of London is a very popular attraction that gets crowded, so I highly recommend getting tickets for the earliest entry time to beat the crowds. Plan for a visit of at least 2-3 hours with kids to be able to see the highlights. More details in this family-friendly guide to the Tower of London .

Westminster Abbey

As the site of the coronation of many monarchs and the final resting place for many of them as well, Westminster Abbey plays an important role in both the religious and political history of England and Great Britain. Entry into the church includes an audio guide, and there is a version available for children that explains the stories in a more accessible format in about an hour – just the right length for younger attention spans. (More tips for families in this article from my friend Allison about what to expect at Westminster Abbey .)

While most visitors explore the church only, we went a little out of the way to sit in the College Garden as well, which is a lovely and peaceful green space for toddlers and younger kids to explore with amazing views of the Palace of Westminster for parents. Westminster Abbey is within easy walking distance of both Parliament and the Churchill War Rooms (both listed below), so it’s possible to do two or even three of these attractions in a single day if you plan the timing carefully, which is what we did.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s is the famed cathedral featured in the “Feed the Birds” scene of Mary Poppins that is also the site where Princess Diana and Prince Charles were wed. It is the people’s church in London and turned out to be even more popular with my kids than Westminster Abbey. Take one of the shorter free guided tours to learn a little of the history (or use the included audio guide). And definitely make time to climb to the top of the dome for magnificent views of the city on clear days – not for the faint of heart but well worth it!

Churchill War Rooms (Imperial War Museum)

Kids can learn about one of Great Britain’s most famous prime ministers as well as a lot about World War II history in a visit to the Churchill War Rooms. This museum is located in the underground bunkers where Churchill and his cabinet rode out the bombings of London during the Blitz, ultimately directing the Allies on to victory. An audio guide (including a “family” setting with descriptions more understandable for kids) is included in the price of admission.

I was worried that the Churchill War Rooms would be too much boring history for my younger child (who was 8 years old and about to enter 3rd grade at the time of our trip). Its underground location, the walk-through layout of the museum, and its many multimedia exhibits turned out to be surprisingly engaging. My son especially enjoyed the interactive screen where visitors can listen to Churchill’s most famous quotes and quips. Plan on at least 2 hours to visit – more with teens who may be more deeply in to the history.

Parliament (Palace of Westminster)

The Palace of Westminster is home to Great Britain’s House of Commons and House of Lords, and it may come as a surprise that tours are offered here! Tours with a live guide as well as self-guided audio tours (both about 90 minutes) are available. We opted for the guided tour, which was a little more expensive but worthwhile to mix things up, as many London tourist attractions have audio guides.

Parliament was one of the favorite stops for my 13 year old. Seeing the room she had previously viewed only on TV and YouTube while watching the famous Prime Minister’s questions was especially meaningful to her. But the tour was probably a little too dry or at least too long for my 8 year old, so this is one attraction I might save for older kids who have a deeper understanding and appreciation of government and politics.

London Bike Tour

I have never thought of London as much of a biking city, but the government has installed a massive amount of biking infrastructure in recent years which has drastically changed the landscape. And that means that it’s incredibly easy to explore a number of city highlights on two wheels.

We took a private family tour with BrakeAway Bike Tours to get our bearings on the first morning of our stay in London. Our tour guide was knowledgable and upbeat while also giving us practical tips along the way and taking all the necessary measures to keep us safe. Everyone in the family ranked it one of our absolute favorite activities.

There are multiple quality bike tour companies (we investigated them all!), including Tally Ho! , the London Bicycle Tour Company , and Fat Tire Tours London . Many of the tour guides are actors and entertainers and have the skills to keep kids engaged. Most tour companies offer trail-along bikes and even trailer attachments so it’s possible for families even with toddlers and younger kids to enjoy this activity. Families with younger kids (under 10 or 12 years old) usually are required to book a private tour.

For amazing views of London, head to the city’s most visited attraction: the London Eye. This giant ferris wheel towers over the southern banks of the Thames River, rotating slowly one revolution each half hour so riders can take in the views. Because of its popularity, it’s essential to book tickets well in advance. This is one of the most expensive attractions in London and queues can be brutal. If you plan to do it, especially with impatient younger kids or if you are on a tight schedule, I’d highly recommend paying even more for the Fast Track tickets to skip the queue.

The same company that owns the London Eye also operates nearby Sea Life Aquarium, Madam Tussauds, the London Dungeon, and Shrek’s Adventure. As several of these attractions are replicated in a lot of cities around the world and are pretty touristy, we skipped them, but many families enjoy them. Combination tickets can save you some money if you plan to do more than one.

Afternoon Tea

Many of the luxury hotels in London offer decadent afternoon teas, and we highly recommend partaking in at least one during a family vacation. Most of these teas welcome children with special theming and kid-friendly food selections, so it’s very hard to pick among the many excellent choices.

We decided to go with a classic experience at the Savoy Hotel’s Thames Foyer for our family of four (my husband and I also took tea at the Ritz London as an adults-only date night). Also recommended for families is tea at St. Ermin’s , the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea at One Aldwych , and the Original Sweetshop Afternoon Tea at The Chesterfield Mayfair . (See more family-friendly London tea recommendations.)

Sunday Roast

While we are on the subject of food, one other must-do meal is a traditional Sunday Roast. Compared to many European countries, England isn’t exactly known for its amazing cuisine, but we had heard from friends and family that the Sunday meal is one worth experiencing. They were so right.

Sunday roast consists of a hearty plate with a roasted meat (usually chicken, beef, or lamb) covered in gravy with side items like potatoes, vegetables, and a Yorkshire pudding. Any local pub will likely do the job in spades. We ate our Sunday Roast at the Chesterfield Arms in Mayfair near our hotel and the meal was one of the very best of our trip. Some pubs serve this dish all weekend long, so you may have more than one night a week to get your fill.

Borough Market

Borough Market is one of the largest public markets in London with a history of over 1000 years. Today, it is full of sights and smells that capture kids’ attentions. There are a number of food stalls to grab a quick meal or snack on the go or table service restaurants surrounding the market itself for a more leisurely meal.

Hamleys Toy Shop

Hamleys Toy Shop is a child’s dream come to life – seven floors of every toy from around the globe at its main location on Regent Street. There are play stations throughout the shop where kids can see some of the toys in action and even play with a few themselves.

You’ll find a wide selection of toys that may not be available back home, including lots of Peppa Pig, Paddington, and Harry Potter as well as Hamleys’ own label of toys that includes an iconic red London bus and a teddy bear (with a new design each year). There’s even a Build-a-Bear station that includes outfits unique to London like a Beefeater costume. It was hard getting my kids to leave, so consider yourself warned!

London is full of beautiful parks to explore with kids, but Hyde Park is one of the largest with multiple offerings that families will enjoy. On the east side, families can rent paddleboats on the Serpentine Lake or hire a lawn chair to sit and people watch or enjoy an ice cream.

On the west side, the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground is one of the top things to do with younger kids. The play structure is shaped like a pirate ship. Kensington Palace is also located adjacent to the park. This Royal Palace is open to the public, with viewings of the King’s and Queen’s State Apartments as well as Kensington Gardens. It’s one of the most popular attractions for visitors wanting to explore Britain’s royal history.

Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard

Speaking of palaces, Buckingham Palace nearby is another must-see with kids. The famous Changing of the Guard there usually happens daily in June and July, but only 4 days a week the rest of the year (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays), so plan carefully and prepare for large crowds.

For limited periods (usually in late summer and early fall), the palace opens to the public for tours. The tours are quite expensive and not necessarily a must-do on shorter trips (particularly if you plan to visit other royal sites), but worth considering. The children’s audio guide is hosted by Rex the Corgi – a cute touch.

British Museum

The British Museum has one of the largest and most magnificent collections from historical sites around the world, from Egyptian mummies to the Rosetta Stone to the Parthenon’s Elgin marbles. It is an engaging place to introduce kids to history and archeology. You can really customize your experience and the time you spend there to match the ages an interests of your children, so it is one of the best things to do in London for all ages. And it’s free!

The enormous size of the museum is pretty overwhelming so I’d recommend looking at the offerings in advance and having a plan to navigate it. Check out this guide to the British Museum with kids for the top things to see.

All Things Harry Potter

Harry Potter fans will find a wealth of activities to do all over London. For the superfans with plenty of time to spare, the Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio Tour is an experience farther outside of the city center (more like a day trip) that requires something approaching a full day to see. There are also plenty of walking tours and bus tours of the sights of the Harry Potter films as well. More casual fans should at least consider popping by Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station for a photo opp and to visit the gift shop selling Potter merchandise.

See more offerings in this post with 9 Harry Potter things to do in London .

Premier League Match

Thanks to Ted Lasso, English Premier League football is hotter than ever among Americans right now. Attending a Premier League match is an amazing opportunity to have a much more local experience in London… if you can get tickets. We had to join the club for Tottenham Hotspur to even have the right to purchase tickets direct. Then we had get up in the middle of the night twice and refresh the website frantically to get the seats we did. But it was well worth it! Premier League matches run roughly from August to May.

One mistake we made when attending that other families of young kids should know about – Premier League games are loud – louder than any other sporting event I’ve ever attended. Consider bringing ear protection for younger and more sensitive kids if you do manage to score seats.

West End Show

London has a thriving theater district on the West End that rivals New York’s Broadway for the number and quality of shows it offers. There are always a number of kid-friend shows available. Some have age minimums or recommendations, so check carefully to make sure the show you choose is suitable for everyone in the family.

We watched Back to the Future: The Musical on our visit, which debuted in London and will soon also be showing in New York. It was a massive hit with everyone in the family, but most especially my husband who has surely watched the movie a few hundred times. Other family-friendly shows running in 2022 include: The Lion King, Matilda, Disney’s Newsies, Frozen, Mary Poppins, and Wicked.

Tips for Booking & Saving Money on Attractions in London with Kids

While it’s hard enough to narrow down what you want to see in London, figuring out how best to book tickets and not spend too much money can be even trickier. A few London travel tips to consider when it comes to the logistics of booking and visiting attractions (plus see even more in this list of helpful European travel tips ):

• Book Direct! : If you just want tickets to most attractions, book direct, unless you are booking a combination ticket that bundles multiple attractions at a discount. A number of travel websites and blogs will direct you to ticket middlemen like Viator and Get Your Guide for tickets (I won’t do that just to get an affiliate commission). While these sites do offer a number of in-depth tours worth considering, many listings on these sites are merely glorified marked-up admission tickets.
• Book in Advance : While there are some attractions in London where you can walk up and purchase tickets, everything is much more planned in advance these days. To avoid long lines or being shut out of an attraction entirely during peak tourist season, purchase tickets in advance (timed entry is required at many places).
• Check for Closure Days : A lot of London attractions are open 7 days a week (more than any other city in Europe we experienced), especially in peak summer months. But not all of them. Be sure to keep track of any days that activities are closed when planning out your travel itinerary so you don’t miss out.

Here are a few ways we discovered families can get a discount on multiple attractions in London:

• Family Ticket Bundles : A number of London attractions offer family tickets directly on their website that can help you save money on admission (most often these for adult/child combinations of 3-5 people). Be sure to read all the ticket options offered to find which one adds up to be the best deal for your family. Look for “concession” rates for discounts – this is a term that Americans may not immediately know the meaning of!
• National Rail 2-for-1 Discounts : If you are traveling to London by rail, you are eligible with your train ticket for a number of 2-for-1 discounts for many activities. Details on how to book and claim are on the National Rail website .
• London Pass by Go City: The London Pass by Go City is a discount pass that allows you to bundle multiple attractions and save. It includes Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London, a hop on hop off bus tour, and many others. If you plan to do 2-3 attractions per day that are offered under its umbrella, you’ll likely come out ahead, but you have to do the math.

Final Thoughts on London with Kids

Our family had an amazing time in London. It is just the right place to start European travels with kids . The city is so easy to navigate without wasting any time, and London has a wealth of family-friendly things to do. Even though it’s an enormous city, the neighborhoods feel compact, welcoming and friendly. It’s a city we can see ourselves returning to many times, so we highly recommend other families give it a visit as well!

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A kid-friendly guide for visiting London with the family

Home to intricate architecture, a wide variety of food, and no lack of things to do, it’s easy to spend a week—or even more—exploring London .

But is London family-friendly? Our answer is a resounding yes. Here’s all you need to know for a smooth and fuss-free family holiday, especially if you have little ones in tow:

Best family-friendly hotels in London

There are so many family-friendly areas in London to stay in : Paddington is great for theater buffs, while areas like St. James, South Bank , and South Kensington are close to many great kid-friendly attractions.

Park Plaza County Hall London is one of our top picks, having won the ‘Best Family Friendly Hotel’ at the HRS Hotel Excellence Awards. They offer spacious family rooms with kitchenettes, goody bags with activity books and crayons, and a specially curated children’s menu. The hotel is also within walking distance of—and offers 2-for-1 tickets to—many kid-friendly attractions such as the London Eye , Shrek’s Adventure London , Madame Tussauds London , and more.

Another great choice is St. James Court, A Taj Hotel and its Kids@Taj program. The little kiddos will receive a special goody bag, which includes a sketchbook with crayons, and postcards that can be posted to loved ones back home. Your children will love the special kid’s menu, with personalized snacks at bedtime. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to get anywhere in the city too.

Best family restaurants in London

If you're on the lookout for a family-friendly dinner spot, Poppies is a great choice, offering kids' meal options like fish and chips and chicken pie. Franco Manca will keep the kids entertained too—they can catch the chefs in action and watch their sourdough pizzas go from oven to table.

Alternatively, the Garden Café has an adjacent courtyard where the kids can run free, and Gordon Ramsay’s Heddon Street Kitchen has a great ice cream bar menu for a sweet treat.

For a family day out and some good ol’ bonding time, take the kids to All Stars Lane for bowling, drinks, and food. They have family packages available across four locations in London, making it a fun yet affordable option for both the little ones and adults.

Homeslice has gigantic 20-inch pizzas for the whole family to dig into. Afternoon tea in London is always a great idea for some respite half way through the day—take your pick from cute little jigsaw-shaped sandwiches at The Langham , a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory -themed soirée at One Aldwych , or an Alice in Wonderland fantasy adventure at Sanderson London .

You can even dine in a glass igloo at The Coppa Club , or channel your kids’ creative juices with Masala Zone Covent Garden ’s never-ending supply of coloring books and crayons.

Top things to do with the family in London

Walk in the shoes of the adorable Paddington Bear by going on a walking tour , and snap a photo with the iconic Paddington Bear statue . Harry Potter fans shouldn’t miss a tour of the Warner Bros. Studi o, before hopping over to King’s Cross Station to have some fun at Platform 9¾ .

Take a ride on the London Eye , explore London’s Museum Quarter, or have some fun at SEA LIFE London Aquarium , Shrek’s Adventure! London , or The Golden Hinde .

There’s even a Go Ape treetop adventure complete with zip lines and high-element courses at Battersea Park. The West End also has plenty of family-friendly musicals —think Aladdin , Stomp , Matilda , and School of Rock , among others. Don’t forget to visit Hamleys , a sprawling toy shop on Regent Street that’s a wonderland for kids.

Bring the whole family on a vintage London Bus tour and cruise along the River Thames , or experience an adrenaline rush with a high-speed Thames River RIB cruise . If you’re pressed for time, the Tootbus Kids tour is a great way to explore the city, with entertaining commentary that’s specially tailored for both adults and kids.

Tips for visiting London with kids

Can’t wait to get going? Here are some tips and tricks to make your family trip to London that much easier.

1. Save money with passes

For a fuss-free experience, check out the London Pass , which gives you access to more than 80 popular sights. You can choose from 1- to 5-day passes, complete with a digital pass for easy entry. If you’re planning on visiting several attractions from the Merlin Entertainment Group—such as the London Eye, Madame Tussauds, or London Dungeon—you can save tons with passes that cover two to five attractions .

2. Find free things to do with kids in London

The best things in London are free . Let your kids play in the iconic red phone booths scattered along the streets, or watch the exciting Changing of the Guard ceremony . Spend an entire afternoon getting caught up in Tate Modern ’s free family activities and the British Film Institute also holds free movie screenings and film-making classes.

If your family prefers to be outdoors, have a picnic or row a boat at Hyde Park . Mudchute Farm & Park promises a fun day out as well, where the kiddos can feed all kinds of animals. Children can also enter many London museums for free , such as the Science Museum , Natural History Museum , V&A Museum of Childhood , and many more.

3. Dine for free at restaurants

Gordon Ramsay has many restaurants in London where kids under the age of 12 can eat free with every paying adult, along with other restaurants like Sea Containers and Bodean’s BBQ .

4. Be prepared for any type of weather

If there’s one thing that London is known for, it’s the unpredictable weather. It’s always best to be prepared. Make sure you carry around windbreakers, ponchos, and an umbrella or two. It’s also great to have a list of rainy day activities on hand.

5. Take the Tube

London’s subway, also known as the Tube or London Underground , is an experience in itself. Plus, there are discounted ticket rates for kids between 11 and 15, with kids under the age of 11 riding for free.

6. Time your trip with Kids Week

Kids Week falls in August when many theaters offer families a chance to score one complimentary ticket for a child under the age of 16 with the purchase of every adult ticket. On top of that, two additional kids can get their tickets at half-price too.

Recommended tours and activities

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• By Tanvi Chheda
• October 12, 2021

Historic, iconic and royal, London brings to mind sites such as the Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace, not to mention cultural spots like Shakespeare’s Globe and the Tate Modern. And it’s full of charming neighborhoods with flower shops, pint-size cafes and trendy bars.

Is it possible to soak up some of this atmosphere in with a toddler in tow? Yes — a resounding yes. It may require adjusting expectations, but seeing London with a toddler will rouse a sense of wonder in both parent and child.

Children, especially toddlers, are inherently curious, not to mention intrepid! They’ll turn a corner and lead you down a new path, walk up to strangers, stroll through the Tube car with a grin on the their face.  True, it takes patience and flexibility to navigate a 607-square-mile city, home to 9 million, with a little one. But to see your toddler’s eyes fill with awe as a double-decker bus whizzes by or as they approach the Princess Diana Memorial playground — better known as the pirate ship — in Kensington Gardens is also a memory to cherish.

Below are some tips and suggestions for seeing London from a young child’s eyes.

Essential Tips for Visiting London with Toddlers in Tow

Parks and gardens.

You’re likely thinking you didn’t come all this way simply to visit a park or garden, but the British, in fact, have a national obsession with gardens themselves. Gardens have long been places for respite, places to express creativity, and of course, places to host garden parties. And so, Kew Gardens, officially the Royal Botanic Gardens, is a great place to take toddlers.

Don’t miss Hyde Park either. A green oasis in a teeming city, much like New York’s Central Park, the 350-acre park was created by Henry VIII in 1536. With ponds, fountains and statues galore, Hyde Park is wonderful to stroll and explore as an attraction on its own or for some downtime after a busy morning.

Historic Sites, Museums and Toy Stores

Though it is challenging to see some of the top historic sites with a toddler, there are alternate ways to experience them. Rather than trying to take a serious and guided tour of the interior of Buckingham Palace, head to the Royal Mews, which serves as the Queen’s garage. It’s home to her collection of cars and carriages, as well as horse stables. Transport vehicles and animals are a guaranteed hit with any toddler!

A few other sites that are easier for younger ones include walking the Millennium Bridge and riding the London Eye, or ambling around Trafalgar Square. And while it might feel like a bit of a tourist trap, a hop-on/hop-off double-decker bus may well be the highlight of a 3-year-old’s day and a fantastic way to get a quick overview of the city.

We can help you plan an unforgettable London family vacation!

Our Family Travel Advisors can work with you one on one to book vetted accommodations, create a custom itinerary, arrange private tours and guides, and more. Click to send us a request!

Another favorite of local parents, the hands-on London Transport Museum is perfect for curious toddlers. Showcasing 200 years of London’s transport history with colorful maps and displays, the museum houses double-decker buses, old trams, Tube cars and trains, all just waiting for toddlers to climb aboard. The museum’s gift shop is also top-notch, with plenty of Tube and Mind the Gap paraphernalia.

For more toys and gifts, consider Hamley’s Toy Shop, a seven-story toy emporium dating back to 1760 in the heart of London’s shopping district along Regent Street. You’ll find it hard to escape without a toy in hand, but many of the unique and special toys are set out for toddlers to try and play with. Plus, the top floor features the royal family made out of Legos!

A Children’s Tea

Afternoon tea is the quintessential British experience as well as a chance to dress up and feel special. Several London restaurants and hotels now offer a tea for the petite crowd. Typically, a children’s tea will be shorter than a traditional version but will still include plenty of finger sandwiches and cakes. Consider the one at Fortnum and Mason, the legendary British teamaker. There’s even a Peter Pan -themed tea at Aqua Shard and a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory -themed tea at One Aldwych Hotel. Advance reservations are required for most teas, so it’s best to book beforehand.

Practical Points

• Be strategic about where you stay. Being within walking distance or a short Tube ride of the attractions and areas you plan to visit makes a world of difference with a toddler; you don’t want to spend too much time getting where you need to go. Both Mayfair and Kensington are central areas with many hotel and stay options across price points.
• The Tube isn’t very stroller-friendly, and many stations don’t even have elevators. If traveling with a stroller, go for the light umbrella kind, which is easier to carry around town.
• Londoners don’t mix fine dining and kids. Typically, parents will get a sitter if they intend to have a longer, more elaborate meal. Travelers will therefore want to seek out informal eats that are still plenty delicious . The Borough Market food hall is a great place for families, with dozens of stalls and purveyors.
• The traffic around Heathrow can be quite horrendous, making for a long taxi ride into the city. If you can will yourself and your toddler to hop on the Heathrow Express train, you’ll be in town in 20 minutes.

Relevant Links:

Browse all family-friendly accommodations and things to do in London on Ciao Bambino

Get our best tips and ideas for traveling with babies and toddlers

52 tips for traveling in England with kids

Best playgrounds and parks in London for kids

The best London museums for families

5 fantastic neighborhoods for a family vacation in London

Best restaurants in London for families

8 favorite day trips from London with kids

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20 Things To Do In London With A Toddler (For Under £10)

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We know there are many factors to consider when thinking about a visit to London with toddlers .

Taking young children out can be stressful so we’ve put together a tried-and-tested guide on the best ways to spend a day in London with a toddler.

There are numerous things for toddlers to do in London, such as visiting the Science Museum or exploring the Diana Memorial Playground in Hyde Park.

Children get to an age where they seem to need a lot more entertainment or stimulation and it can be difficult to keep finding fun, age-appropriate activities to do with them.

Sometimes the choice is so great we don’t know where to start, and other times we find ourselves in the rut of going to the same old places over and over again.

We love this here city so have put together the best things to do in London with toddlers (for under £10):

How to Travel Around London With a Toddler

The great thing about exploring the capital with a toddler is that children under five years old go free on all London transport.

There is also a ‘Step Free’ Tube map to help navigate the underground with a wheelchair, buggy or pram.

If you don’t fancy braving the city alone, Big Bus Tour s offers a range of tours that will suit even the youngest visitor.

Free toddler activities in London

There is nothing like a free day out, especially when children cost us enough already!

These activities are completely free to children under five years old, whether it’s a full day of sensory activities or a day at the park there’s something for everyone whatever the weather forecast.

London Museums

1. Natural History Museum

The perfect free day out for you and the children, there are great sensory and interactive things to do with toddlers that keep everyone occupied and interested throughout the day.

Besides, who doesn’t love dinosaurs?

In addition to their standard offerings they also run free or low-cost additional activities every day, especially during school holidays.

2. London Transport Museum

Situated off the buzzing piazza of Covent Garden, kids go free at this award-winning attraction although you do have to pay for any adults.

You can discover the history of London Transport whilst children enjoy many interactive points throughout the museum.

There is also a play zone for children aged 0-7 as well as dedicated events throughout the year specifically for children aged under 5.

3. Science Museum

Everyone goes free at the Science Museum, and there is so much to see and do.

There are some brilliant interactive points for small children including experiments with floating and sinking in the Garden and a flight simulator with Fly Kids – both open daily.

The museum also offers Experitots play sessions specifically for children aged 18 months to 3 years but check their website for times and dates available.

4. AHOY! Gallery at National Maritime Museum

If you’re looking for places to take toddlers in London, the AHOY Gallery was specially designed for the under-sevens and is free during term time.

Located in the Royal Borough of Greenwich , life on the seas is brought to life in a series of playful and immersive spaces.

Best Play Areas in London For Toddlers

5. Diana Memorial Playground , Hyde Park

This lovely park is located next to Princess Diana’s Kensington home, with a large wooden pirate ship at its centre the park offers many opportunities for fun and adventure.

There is a sensory trail, teepees, a sandy beach around the pirate ship and other toys and sculptures to enjoy.

6. Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

There is plenty on offer for families at the Olympic Park, with wetlands, climbing walls, gardens and play areas you can fill your whole day with fun outdoor activities.

There is also the favoured waterworks fountain which will bring refreshing relief on summer days whilst the children navigate the snaking pathways of fountains and lights.

7. Coram’s Fields

Coram Fields is located in Central London and has lots on offer for adventure seeking toddlers and older children alike.

There is a mixture of play equipment and a large open green space for children to play.

They also have a city farm and wildlife garden, meaning the children can learn and play all in one space.

Best Indoor Activities For Toddlers under £10

With such unpredictable weather here in the UK it’s good to have an indoor activity to turn to that still gets you out of the house and beats that cabin fever.

Here are some good indoor activities to take toddlers to that are either under £10 or completely free!

8. Discovery Planet

Located in Surrey Quays, this is a popular indoor soft play centre that won’t cost the earth to enjoy.

With Free Wi-Fi and free parking, they have catered for parents too to keep costs down and help you to relax whilst your children have lots of fun.

9. National Gallery

An iconic London attraction the National Gallery has a lot to offer for families looking for a bit of culture.

They also offer a free storytelling session every Sunday morning for under 5’s, it’s a fun interactive experience that is led by professional storytellers with a special musical edition once a month.

‘Welcome Wednesday’ sessions are aimed at children from 18 months to 5 years and offer arts and crafts, music, movement and story-based activities for only £5.

10. Hamleys Toy Shop

As well as an abundance of toys to try out and discover, Hamleys often have in-store events to entertain visiting children.

If you think you can survive a visit without spending a fortune, it’s one of our favourite things to do in London for toddlers that don’t require any money.

Events include meeting favourite superheroes, chances to win prizes or why not take a break and let the staff read to your children during daily storytime.

Theatre and the Arts

11. The Barbican Centre

For the more theatrical loving little ones, the Barbican has some wonderful activities on offer for families.

There is a free play area at the ‘Squish Space’ for under 5’s which is full of objects especially to encourage parents and children to explore through play.

At the Conservatory, which is the second biggest in London, you can explore the tropical oasis for free – perfect for families.

If you fancy treating yourself to a nice lunch then you’re in luck as kids under 12 eat free for every adult ordering a main meal.

12. Southbank Centre

A great place to visit during the summer months the Southbank Centre offers the pretty Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden and the cooling spray of the Jeppe Hein water fountains.

There are activities throughout the year for children and many are free of charge.

During the summer they run Disco Loco, a free family party that offers an afternoon of DJing and performance to entertain the whole family.

Other Noteworthy Toddler Attractions in London

There are of course many other places to take a toddler in London but they may incur an entry fee over £10, for some this will only be for adults as many places are free for children under 3 years.

We think these spots are well worth a mention:

The Unicorn Theatre , situated near London Bridge has many shows and events for young children and costs from as little as £20 for a combined adult and child entry.

There are also show themed workshops on offer for children between the ages of 3 and 7.

The British Museum is one of our favourite London attractions for toddlers.

They have activity trails, gallery backpacks which include free activities and art materials that can be borrowed to keep little ones occupied.

There are free family events throughout the year which include activities such as mini explorers, archaeology sensory experiences and looking at ancient civilisations.

London is home to some fabulous afternoon tea spots for children.

They’re short and sweet and designed for children so even if your toddler is noisy, no one will mind.

Read our full guide to the best afternoon tea for children in London .

Toddler Friendly Attractions

The London Eye is an iconic London attraction and children love to see the sights from this oversized Ferris wheel.

There are often great deals which can include entry to another top attraction for a much lower cost.

Perfect if you are looking to tick off some of the big names off your list of things to see.

London Zoo is another top spot for many families, it can be pretty pricey for a whole family, although children under 3 do get free entry.

There’s lots to enjoy including amazing animals, feeding time and daily events to entertain adults and children alike.

London Aquarium offers a fascinating insight into underwater life, you can get up close with sharks in the shark walk, discover the world’s first whale sanctuary or have a rainforest and polar adventure.

With the pretty fish and illuminated underwater menagerie, it is a real sensory experience for little ones.

What To Do In London With Toddlers

Although London is a large bustling city, there are havens that cater for small children, and sleep deprived adults searching for pockets of peace amongst the hustle and bustle.

Armed with knowledge of the most welcoming places and the aforementioned step free tube map, parents and guardians can plan a completely toddler friendly day in the capital with little to no stress at all.

If you’re happy to pay the adult fare, all of these places are free for toddlers:

• All Merlin attractions (under 3 years old)
• Historic Royal Palaces sites (under 5 years old)
• Battersea Park Zoo (under 2 years old)
• English Heritage sites (under 5 years old)
• National Trust sites (under 5 years old)

So, pack a picnic and discover adventure without spending a fortune.

We also like:

• Riding the river/Uber boat
• The Disney Shop
• St James’s Park (for the swans and pelicans)

We hope this guide has helped you discover the best activities for toddlers in London.

From interactive museums like the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum to fun-filled outdoor attractions such as the London Zoo and the Diana Memorial Playground, there are plenty of entertaining options to keep your little ones engaged and happy during your visit to the vibrant city of London.

Would you like a free guide on ten things to do with toddlers in London?

We’ve put together a printable itinerary on the ten best toddler activities in London. Download your printable below!

What are your favourite toddler days out in London?

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11 Terrific Things to Do in London with a Toddler

Posted on Last updated: March 18, 2024

Home » Destinations » Europe » England » 11 Terrific Things to Do in London with a Toddler

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Planning a trip to London with toddlers and are thinking about kid-friendly activities? Keep scrolling for my list of the best things to do in London with a toddler worth adding to your London itinerary!

This list of things to do in london with a toddler was co-written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Guest post by Charity De Souza

London is an iconic city packed with family-friendly activities.

While a trip to the big city may seem daunting, you’re spoiled for choice with things to do in London with a toddler.

You can spend a day exploring one of the interactive museums or run loose in the city’s spacious green spaces – London attractions for toddlers are as diverse as the city itself. 

If you’re overwhelmed with navigating London with a toddler in tow – fear not! As a mom who has traveled to capital cities with kids, I know the key to a good family trip is in the preparation. 

In this guide, we’ve hand-picked the cream of the crop. You’ll find the best attractions for toddlers in London, including iconic landmarks, fun educational destinations, and outdoor activities.

We included free things to do in London with a toddler as well as fun activities that you both will enjoy, like British Afternoon Tea.   

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of exploring London with your little ones.

11 Best Things to do in London with a Toddler

Almost all toddlers will love a day of seeing exotic animals, so take them to the London Zoo ! 

The London Zoo is an exciting destination for all ages, with over 650 species to discover, from gorillas and Komodo dragons to mischievous monkeys swinging through the treetops.

It’s one of the easiest days out in London with toddlers, as this attraction boasts immersive and interactive exhibits designed to engage and delight even the youngest of visitors.

There’s even a dedicated Animal Adventure playground for kids, designed to bring them closer to nature through play. In this area, toddlers can come face to face with meerkats, porcupines, pigs, alpacas, llamas, and goats. On a hot sunny day, they can cool off in the Splash Zone.

Head to Penguin Beach, England’s biggest penguin pool, to see a South American beach landscape filled with flipper friends. 

Alternatively, you can peek at Sumatran tigers through floor-to-ceiling glass windows in the Tiger Territory or escape to London’s only living rainforest to observe monkeys, sloths, and tamanduas.

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is one of the best places to visit in London with a toddler, featuring a collection of fascinating dinosaur skeletons and hands-on exhibits. 

One of the best free attractions in London for families, a self-guided tour of the museum reveals a treasure trove of interactive experiences. 

Walking through the famous Dinosaurs gallery in the Natural History Museum is one of those top things to do in London with a 2-year-old, as they’ll be mesmerized by the massive T-rex skeleton.

A highlight of this museum is the Fossil Marine Reptiles area, which boasts one of the most complete fossils of prehistoric sea animals in the world. There’s even a giant sloth that kids can marvel at. 

Next, they can learn about natural forces in the Volcanoes and Earthquakes gallery.

When you need a break, stop at the on-site Central Cafe, which offers a selection of sandwiches, fruit, and pastries. Little ones can fuel up before continuing on. 

For a more immersive behind-the-scenes experience, book a private tour of London’s Natural History Museum .

Science Museum

If you’re visiting London with a toddler, the S cience Museum is a great idea. Another free attraction, it’s home to a huge collection of award-winning exhibits designed to engage, captivate, and keep kids entertained. 

Like a playground of discovery, the age-appropriate exhibits and hands-on activities at the Science Museum make learning fun. 

Power Up is a favorite with its hands-on gaming experience, featuring video games from the past 50 years, while Wonderlab has live science shows and demonstrations. In this area, toddlers can see lightning strike, play on giant slides, and travel through space. 

What makes this one of the best toddler-friendly museums is its dedicated section for preschoolers.

They can explore science through play in the Garden, an interactive gallery featuring water exhibits and huge blocks for sensory play. 

Catering to kids under 9 years old, the Pattern Pod is another multi-sensory area in the Science Museum. They can explore water ripples without getting wet, create images on touch screens, and follow robot trails.

Offering the perfect mix of natural beauty and wide open spaces for burning off energy, Hyde             Park is one of the best parks for toddlers in London. This Central London attraction a long-time family favorite, even nicknamed “The People’s Park.”

It’s hard to find such an open space in a capital city, and Hyde P ark goes above and beyond with its beautiful lakeside paths, waterfront cafes, and abundance of wildlife, such as swans. 

Kids will love the on-site playground, which features climbing frames, a swing set, and a slide. 

After a day of sightseeing, you can also unwind with a stroll along the winding paths in the north of this toddler-friendly attraction. 

The scenic path is perfect for those traveling with babies in London, with beautiful views of the park’s picturesque meadows on full display. 

In warmer months, you can also enjoy an afternoon of boating on the lake. Swimming and a kid’s pool are also available at the Serpentine Swimming Club. 

Hyde Park is also adjacent to Kensington Ga rdens , which is known for its blooming floral displays and photogenic flower walks.

London Transport Museum

My children love all things transportation, so it makes sense why the London Transport Museum stands out as one of the best things to do in London for toddlers. 

One of the top London museums for the whole family, exploring the city’s famous transport system that has operated for over 200 years. 

They can play conductor for a day at Playzone, which is a perfect spot for toddlers featuring mini vehicles such as trains, boats, and an Emirates Air Line cable car. 

It is located on the ground floor and features fun exhibits like a Lost Property office, cafe, and information desk. For infants, there’s an interactive wall and building blocks. 

There’s also a series of fun interactive exhibits in the Future Engineers gallery, including the chance to “drive” a modern Elizabeth line train and “fix” a train. 

As you explore the museum, you can see what transport was like in London in the 1800s and get up close to an 1860s steam engine train.

Young kids can also learn about the formation of London transport and the world’s first underground railway.

Diana Memorial Playground

Nestled within Kensington Gardens is the Diana Memoria l Playground , which deserves its own spot on this list of things to do for toddlers in London.

Located next to her Kensington Palace home, the Central London attraction is a tribute to Princess Diana’s legacy of compassion and love for children. 

Small children can hop aboard the large wooden pirate ship, follow the sensory trail, and explore the various teepees and whimsical play structures.

Best of all, there’s plenty of seating available for parents around the play area. 

It’s a unique space you can see when visiting London, designed for less able and able-bodied children to play together. The Diana Memorial Playground was also inspired by the stories of Peter Pan.

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Wow your entire family with an excursion on the famous London Eye , one of the world’s tallest observation wheels. 

It’s one of the most photogenic ways to see the city and a bucket list activity in London.  

The journey on the London Eye takes about 30 minutes. You’ll be inside one of the 32 pods that rise up over the water above the dazzling skyline. 

While aboard, you can marvel at stunning panoramic views of London landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tower of London. On a clear day, you might even be able to see Windsor Castle.  

It makes for an especially picture-perfect excursion if you can time your visit at sunset. 

If you want complete privacy, book a private pod for you and your family.

Afternoon Tea

When you think of the top London activities for toddlers, afternoon tea might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, enjoying tea in London isn’t just about sipping tea and nibbling on scones—it’s a quintessentially British experience that even toddlers can appreciate. 

Most places are family-friendly, providing high chairs and accommodating staff who understand the unpredictable nature of little ones.

Now, what will they love about it? Well, the treats, of course. From dainty finger sandwiches to miniature cakes and pastries, there’s something to entice even the pickiest eater. 

If you’re ready for your afternoon tea adventure, here are some of the best places to go. 

The Langham – They have a Children’s Afternoon Tea with jigsaw-shaped sandwiches, chocolate brownies, and fresh fruits. 

One Aldwych – Who can pass up a Charlie & the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea? It includes cakes, sweets, mallows, and creams. 

Aqua at the Shar d – This tea experience is inspired by the adventures of Peter Pan in Neverland. While you’re here, you can enjoy the view from atop its 360-degree viewing gallery at T he Shard . 

British Museum

The British Museum is one of the best toddler-friendly attractions in Central London, and older kids can get in on the fun too. 

You and your family can experience history books come to life at this completely free museum, which showcases two million years of human history, art, and culture. 

It boasts a collection of objects from around the world in over 50 galleries, ranging from ancient times to the present day. 

They’ll love the display of Egyptian mummies, experiencing the rich history and cultures of Africa, and journeying across North America to the ancient civilizations of Mexico. 

If you’re up for a challenge, the museum has a Museum Mission program, while fun-filled activity backpacks and the Museum explorer trail are also designed for little ones. 

When hunger strikes, the museum’s cafes and restaurants usually have high chairs on request, and the Pizzeria has a kid’s menu. You can also enjoy a picnic by the museum’s front lawns. 

Get the most out of your visit and book a small group guided tour .

SEA LIFE London Aquarium

SEA LIFE London Aquarium is easily one of the best things to do in London with a toddler. 

Who doesn’t love an underwater wonderland where you can be mesmerized by all sorts of aquatic creatures? 

It’s a delight for the whole family, where you can get up close to hundreds of colorful fish. 

The aquarium zones give you a glimpse into some of the world’s most incredible animals, including huge sharks, stingrays, jellyfish, and penguins.

A highlight is the Shark Walk, where you’ll walk over a glass window for a look at the ocean creatures swimming below your feet. The Ocean Tunnel is where you can marvel at enormous Green Sea turtles over your head. 

Head to the Rockpool Explorer area and touch a stingray, then say hello to the colony of friendly penguins in the Polar Adventure.

Horniman Museum and Gardens

The family-friendly, free Horseman Museum and Gardens offers an exciting day out in London with your toddler. 

You can get up close to hundreds of beautiful butterflies in its tropical indoor garden, then browse jellyfish, tropical tree frogs, and live coral in the aquarium. 

The World Gallery is another highlight, displaying more than 3,000 objects from across the globe.

Outdoor activities at the South London attraction include 16 acres of gardens and an Animal Walk with goats, sheep, guinea pigs, rabbits, chickens, and alpacas.

Things to do in London with a Toddler FAQs

How do you get around london with a toddler.

Getting around London with a toddler is easy with its somewhat stroller-friendly buses and accessible Underground Tube stations. Just remember to fold your stroller on buses! I don’t recommend doing double strollers or wagons, as they take up too much room.

Is London a good place to travel with a baby?

London is a fantastic place to travel with a baby! There are plenty of parks, baby-friendly museums, and family restrooms throughout the city.

Where can I take my 2-year-old in London?

Take your 2-year-old to the London Transport Museum, the Natural History Museum (they’ll love the dinosaurs), and the many city farms and playgrounds.

Is it worth visiting London with toddlers?

Absolutely! London has a ton of toddler-friendly attractions, like the Science Museum’s interactive garden and the magical Peter Pan statue in Kensington Gardens.

What are the best play areas in London for toddlers?

The Diana, Princess of Wales’ Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens and the Tumbling Bay Playground in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park are among the best play areas for toddlers in London.

London with Toddlers Wrap-Up

It comes as no surprise that there’s no shortage of excitement and learning opportunities in London – this is truly a city for all ages.

In this guide, we’ve narrowed down the best things to do in London with a toddler, from the city’s many parks to its interactive museums.

You’ll even save money with the amount of free attractions in London!

You can keep younger visitors entertained aboard the iconic London Eye or afternoon tea, then run loose at the Diana Memorial Playground. 

With its rich history and family-friendly attractions, London offers a memorable adventure for both parents and toddlers alike.

About Charity

Born and raised in Florida, Charity has lived in Thailand, China, New Zealand, the Czech Republic, and England, and now lives in Portugal with her husband and two sons. Charity has traveled to over 60 countries – some of her favorite experiences include skydiving in Switzerland, eating ramen in Japan, and watching a sunset in the Sahara Desert.

Looking for more kid-friendly London travel resources? Check out 15 Lovely London Tours for Families Worth Booking , 27 Lovely London Things To Do for Kids , Paris vs. London for Families , 11 Desirable Day Trips from London by Train , 8 Exciting Things to do in East London With Kids , and 10 Lovely Family-Friendly Hotels in London !

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Tips for Visiting London with a Toddler (or a Baby)

Are you looking for tips on traveling to London with a baby or toddler? I’m sharing a detailed guide on how to get around London with your baby or toddler, what to do and see with your toddler or baby, what souvenirs to consider, where to stay for a family-friendly experience, where to shop for baby supplies and food, and what travel gear to take with you.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. We only recommend products and services that we love!

We will never forget our 14 month old daughter’s first big international adventure to England and Scotland ! She loved her time in the United Kingdom, and we did too! We began and ended our two week trip to England and Scotland in London , and it was wonderful- as always! We found that London is a very welcoming city for children. Everyone was kind and friendly to our daughter, and we wouldn’t hesitate to take her back!

After enjoying an incredible trip to London with our toddler, I’m excited to share my tips (all based on our personal experience- I won’t recommend something that we didn’t try ourselves!). Continue reading for our tips for visiting London with a toddler or a baby! And if you have a long flight ahead of you, you might also be interested in reading What to Pack in a Toddler’s Carry-On .

You might also be interested in: Visiting London for the Second Time

Getting Around London (The Underground, Taxis, & Hop On/Hop Off Buses)

I’m going to start with transportation, because it is always one of the first things that I research when I first begin planning a trip with our daughter. You’ll want to skip using a car in London and plan on using public transportation. Thankfully, London has an awesome public transportation system.

The London Underground

We used the Underground (the Tube) to get around a majority of the time. It’s really easy to use, but if you need help figuring out which trains to take, simply ask one of the people working (they are always so kind and helpful!).

It is important to note that most of the stations are not wheelchair accessible- which means they aren’t stroller (or pushchair) friendly either. To figure out if there will be an elevator (lift), check out the tube maps (located online or in the stations) to see if there is a little wheelchair symbol at your stop.

That being said, we didn’t avoid any stations based on this information. If an elevator wasn’t available, my husband and I carried her compact travel stroller up the stairs (or we collapsed her stroller ahead of time and carried her in the baby carrier – which was our preference during peak travel times when the trains were crowded). If you’re traveling with just one adult, don’t worry! There were several instances when our hands were full of luggage/shopping bags/etc., and complete strangers always offered to help us.

Before having our daughter, my husband and I were big fans of Uber . But having a baby changed that- we cannot always take an Uber with a child due to car seat laws. In the U.K., car seats are not required if the child is in a taxi (please check link for current regulations!). We followed advice from a local and downloaded the Gett App . It works a lot like Uber and is very easy to use. We used the app on a few occasions when taking a taxi was more convenient than the Underground (and we always had the friendliest drivers!).

You can, of course, hail a taxi on your own. We did this when we found parked taxis in busy areas, but using Gett was very convenient.

You might also be interested in: Traveling to Scotland with a Toddler or Baby

Hop On/Hop Off Buses

To be completely honest, I never envisioned using a hop on/hop off. But when we had the opportunity to take a Hop On/Hop Off Bus Tour (+ River Thames Tour) in London, courtesy of the Keetoo App , we jumped on the opportunity. We knew our daughter would enjoy taking a bus around the city! These buses stop at all of the major attractions.

Car seats are also not required by law when children are on a bus, making it a great option when visiting the city with kids.

Playgrounds in London

London has no shortage of beautiful playgrounds (play parks) for children! We loved that many of them were themed (Magical dragons and pirate ships? Sign us up!). During our stay, we visited two: the Princess Diana Memorial Playground the and the Magic Garden. Both were a blast!

Princess Diana Memorial Playground

One of our highlights was visiting the Princess Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens. It was beautiful and so impressive. We were shocked at how large it was. There were so many sections of the playground, and no matter how much we explored, we just kept finding more neat things! Some areas of the playground were better suited for our daughter than others, but there are play structures for all ages.

This playground is free and opens at 10am each morning (check their website for closing time information, as it varies throughout the year).

Magic Garden

The Magic Garden at Hampton Court Palace was also incredible! It is located a little bit outside of the city, and it feels like a great, peaceful escape. This playground is filled with structures and activities that represent various legends and stories from Hampton Court. It is worth noting that this playground wasn’t as suitable for our little one. It is better suited for kids who are a little older, as most structures have features that toddlers cannot handle well. That being said, we still loved our time there!

This playground costs £6.00 for children over 3 years old and £8.00 for adults (they also have family and member deals; be sure to check their current prices on their website ). Admission is free with the purchase of a ticket to Hampton Court.

You might also be interested in: 2 Weeks in England and Ireland: Trip Itinerary

Family-Friendly Attractions in London

I’ll make this section short, because I’m a believer in taking your little ones anywhere! We did research playgrounds and scheduled in time to let her run around, but otherwise, we planned our itinerary as we would have when it was just the two of us. Our daughter loves being around people and exploring new places, so she was happy to go anywhere in the city!

We had traveled to London before and have been to all of the major landmarks. We sought out new opportunities on this trip , and we wound up exploring new places like the Tower Bridge (with its glass floor!) and Hampton Court Palace. The Tower Bridge had conveniently placed elevators and fun activity books for kids. Overall, London is truly one of the best family holiday destinations when it comes to attractions.

Hampton Court Palace had a buggy park and family room (in addition to the Magic Garden!). They also are home to Great Britain’s oldest hedge maze (over 300 years old). Queen Victoria opened it up to the public in 1838. Our daughter loved leading the way!

When I think back on our last time in London (pre-baby), I know that I would happily take our daughter to any of those same destinations. My big tip for planning your itinerary is to do a little research beforehand to find out if you can take a stroller with you (if you cannot, they will likely have a place for you to check them). Note that while most palaces are technically wheelchair accessible, you will probably still want to skip the stroller (because they aren’t always conveniently placed).

Interested in a compact, lightweight travel stroller ? Check out this post , where I compare several popular options!

You might also be interested in: The Lake District for Families

Capture Your Memories with a Professional Photo Shoot

You may want to consider capturing your family memories with your toddler or baby in a unique way! Flytographer is a company that our family uses and loves deeply. They work with local photographers around the world, and they make it incredibly easy to book your own travel family photo shoot in London. You can choose from London’s most popular sights, including spots like Buckingham Palace, Covent Garden, and Big Ben. Flytographer offers a fast turnaround and are always so fun to work with!

If you are new to Flytographer, you can use my referral link to receive $25 off your first photo shoot . You can learn more about our experiences with them in cities like Paris , Edinburgh , and Honolulu !

You might also be interested in: Our Family Photo Shoot in Edinburgh with Flytographer + Discount Coupon Code

Lodging- Where to Sleep in London with a Toddler or Baby

We began and ended our two week trip to the United Kingdom in London, so we stayed in two different places. We started our time in a lovely apartment on Harrow Road (near the Royal Oak Underground Station) and ended our trip in a hotel in the Kensington area. Both were pleasant, but our apartment was perfect. It had everything we were looking for, was perfectly clean, didn’t have a lot of knick-knacks for our daughter to get into, and was very comfortable. Unfortunately, this apartment is no longer listed, but you can find other amazing options on VRBO or Expedia .

We almost always book apartments/flats/homes. We like the flexibility of having our own kitchen for cooking and washing machines for our laundry. We typically use VRBO or Expedia to book our lodging, and we have stayed in some incredible places!

When booking your lodging, here are a few things to consider:

• What amenities are important to you (e.g., a kitchen)?
• What features are important for the safety and comfort of your child (e.g., no inside stairs, a crib, tidy shelves, no messy cords)?
• Is there a nearby Underground station within reasonable walking distance?
• Is the nearest Underground station located within a zone that you plan to spend a lot of time in (note that you might save money on your lodging if you stay further outside of the city, but you might spend extra money on Underground tickets in you have a travel outside of certain zones often)?

Family- Friendly Vacation Homes in London (that include cribs):

• Apartment with stunning gardens in Georgian Town House in South Central London- sleeps 6
• Gorgeous apartment near Westminster- sleeps 6
• Notting Hill Garden Flat- sleeps 3
• Historic Royal Arsenal Apartment with a view of Thames River- sleeps 7
• Stunning, large house with garden near Waterloo- sleeps 11

Family-Friendly Hotels in London:

• St. Ermins Hotel
• Park Plaza County Hall
• Novotel London Tower Bridge

Where to Shop for Baby Supplies & Food in London

Since London is a major city, you won’t have any trouble finding baby food, diapers, wipes, etc. We use non-toxic diapers and wipes, so we did some shopping at Whole Foods in Kensington, but there were other awesome options in stores like Sainsbury’s and Boots.

Our daughter doesn’t eat “baby food”, but she does like apple sauce pouches. We were pleased to find them in nearly every store, along with other easy snack options.

Recommended Gear for Toddlers and Babies in London

Here is a list of gear that we loved using in London:

• Our lightweight, compact travel stroller: We love our compact travel stroller ! This was a must for traveling on airplanes, the Underground, etc! You do not want to bring your big, bulky stroller to London. You can read more about travel strollers in this post: The Best Travel Strollers .

• Our baby carrier: We love our Ergobaby 360 ! It’s comfortable for us and our daughter. She took awesome naps in it, and we love that she can also face out when she’s awake and ready to be a part of the action.

• Our travel crib: I cannot recommend the Dream on Me travel crib enough. It is well made, easy to set up, and weighs just 12 pounds. It is more compact than a traditional pack n play, and it fits easily inside of our large rolling suitcase (with a lot of room to spare). It is similar to other travel cribs, but the price tag is much It is easy to book apartments and hotels with cribs, but we wanted to take a travel crib that our daughter was used to (especially since we switched accommodations 6 times!). We love this crib and cannot recommend it enough!

If you’re interested in more of our favorite travel items for babies, check out my recommendations here: 20 Baby Registry Ideas for Traveling Families !

We loved taking our daughter to London, and I hope that you’ve found our tips helpful! I would love to hear from you in the comments. Have you been to London with a toddler or baby? Do you have any tips to share?

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52 comments, amanda | toddling traveler.

Great tips! I keep heading so much about the Princess Diana Memorial Playground. We have a quick stopover in London in July and are planning to take our 2 year old.

It is definitely something that should make your list! 🙂 Have fun!

I keep hearing so many great things about the princess Diana playground! We have a short layover in London with our son next month and it looks like it’s worth the stop!

Definitely! It was our favorite thing in London this time! And the playground is near Kensington Palace, Hyde Park, etc., so there are other things to do nearby. Enjoy your short time there. 🙂

London is such a family friendly city! Like you, I’ve always found the locals are super helpful, especially on public transport!

Yes, we were so pleasantly surprised. It’s a lovely city!

Cristina Ioana

I love the idea of the hop on hop off busses as an alternative way to get around London. We will surely organize a trip there with our little boy and will definitely go to the themed parks.

Have fun! It’s a great place to take a toddler! 🙂

I took my 5 year old to London recently but I hadn’t considered taking my toddler. Your post has inspired me to take her along next time – thank you.

Great! There are so many things for toddlers to do. Have fun next time you go!

Amanda Patsey

Leah – so much great info here! Looks like there are so many toddler-friendly things to do and see in London. We have never been and can’t wait to go with the kids one day!

Thank you! There are so many things to do in London for kids of all ages! 🙂

This is a great post! Lots of helpful and practical information. I love your photos, too!

Thank you! London is such a great city for families!

Parenthodo4ever

Leah, i love your tips, particularly because we live in London. we moved here when our baby was only 5 months old and were exploring the city with the baby too. I agree that London is a very very baby/kid-friendly city.

What a wonderful city to raise a baby! There are so many fun things to do and see with a little one!

We live so close to London and we have never been to the Princess Diana playground! Great post

Thank you! I highly recommend it- it was a highlight!

We LOVED London with our littles! Princess Diana PArk was our favorite! Your place looks awesome!

Same here- the Princess Diana Memorial playground was amazing! It is such a family-friendly city!

These are great tips! I hope to visit London one day soon. 🙂

It is a lovely city with so much to see and do!

This is great advice. London is so easy with kids. The underground is definitely not designed with kids in mind but someone is ALWAYS willing to help you on stairs. We haven’t been for ages but we really need to get back as I know Ted would love to see Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament now he’s old enough to know what they are.

I agree- it was so easy to visit London with our daughter. No stress at all!

Shira Halperin

Thanks for such an informative post. I will be visiting London next month with my husband and kids. I’ve got my final list, but you covered a lot of things I didn’t. I’ll just have to add them to our trip. Do you have any tips or recommendations for eating out with kids?

So glad it was helpful! And yes! How old are your children? We had a very easy time eating out with our daughter. Several restaurants have high chairs, but not all, so we had to feed her on our laps at times. A few pubs were for adults only, but overall, you will not have a problem finding great places to eat with your kiddos.

Jen Brommer

This is a super cool and informative post! I love the personal photos! Thanks!

Thank you! Glad it was helpful!

London is so wonderful to visit for anyone of any age!

I couldn’t agree more!

Love this article! Your pictures of your daughter are beautiful and I love that you mention great parks, but that it’s also an adult trip, too so just take your kids with! Totally my style, too. And all your gear is awesome! I wish I would have had these links when my kids were younger!

Thank you! London is such a great city for all ages!

We just went to London as well, except with teenagers, so I was interested to read about your trip and see how it varied from ours with teens. Great, informative article! I enjoyed reading it!

Thank you! I bet your teens loved London!

Jennifer Dyson

Thank you for the tips! We are taking our 2 and 4 year olds to London next year! The transportation information will be helpful!

Have a great time! 🙂

Even my big kids would love Diana’s Playground (that pirate ship is amazing!) and the Magic Gardens! What great tips.

Yes! It’s great for kids of all ages!

Janessa| Long Drives (With Kids)

love the gear recommendations and the points to consider before booking lodging

I’m so glad!

My kids are right at the other end of the spectrum, so it’s lovely to hear that you enjoyed London with little ones. We are very biased as we live here, but we think it’s brilliant for every age…

Absolutely! London is such a lovely city!

Dianne Sivulka

You can scouted out all the best spots in London for little ones! What a great list!

We loved visiting these places!

I love London — and I agree public transportation is so well done, and yes the staff are very helpful as are the locals. Great Tips!

Definitely! It is a great, easy place to navigate.

Harmony, Momma To Go

my daughter wants to go to London – she is 8. I def hope to take her in 2020! I have not been since 2001

I hope you make it! It is such a great city for kids!

Dalya Gershtein

These are all such great tips! I’ve visited London many times before but never with kids, so this is super helpful 🙂 Love all the family-friendly attractions!

It is such a great city to visit with kids! 🙂

Katja Gaskell

We love London with kids! We now live here and are always finding so many fun things to do. It’s great to hear that you had such a good time 🙂

Yes, a wonderful time! 🙂 Such a great city for families!

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The 14 Best Things to Do in London with a Toddler

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This is my ranked list of the best things to do in London with a toddler. My husband and I brought our daughter to London the week before she turned 3, and while my husband was working, Gwen and I explored the city.

I know that a three year old might not remember this trip. That’s ok! We brought her to London so that she could spend time with family who lives in London. When we weren’t with family, I wanted her to have fun, so I chose activities that she would love. London is one of my favorite cities and I have been many times and I have seen most of the major sites two or three times, so this trip could be all about Gwen. 

I am sharing a ranking here in this post, but I will break it into an itinerary in another post. These rankings are based on the fact that my daughter and I actually went to all of these places!

First, a few tips for visiting London with a toddler:

London doesn’t have a children’s museum, but several museums have children’s play areas. Sometimes you need to pre-book a play session.

Depending on the time of year you visit, the museums that are free might be hosting a lot of school field trips. This was the case when we visited in late June (schools in the UK have a longer school year than schools in the US). You will see that I preferred the activities that require an entrance fee since they were less crowded.

Currently, the free museums recommend pre-booking. Do this to avoid waiting in a long ling to get in.

I didn’t go to the cafes at every museum, but some did offer kids meals of a sandwich, piece of fruit, juice box, and chips. This worked really well for us.

We used the London Underground to get from place to place, we just made sure to avoid rush hours. Most London museums and attractions don’t open until 10am, so avoiding the morning rush is easy. We would finish up our outings around 4pm so we could be off the tube by 5pm when it gets crowded. I am working on a separate blog post about taking the tube with a toddler. Read my Guide to Taking the London Underground with a Toddler .

The Best Things to Do in London with a Toddler

Table of Contents

1. The Magic Garden at Hampton Court Palace

This is a more major outing since it isn’t in central London and you will likely need to take the train and travel for about an hour. It’s so worth the trip! While Gwen and I went to most places on this list without my husband, I do think that a two adult to one toddler ratio is ideal for this longer trip.

Why is this at the top of the list? Not only is the playground gorgeous, this separate children’s play area has a cafe with seating, bathrooms, and wifi. The play area has some sand and a splash pad, so I recommend bringing a towel and change of clothing for your child. 

Once your child is worn out, walk around the stunning gardens. You can also see things like Henry VIII’s apartment inside the castle. The castle itself isn’t very stroller friendly, so we stuck to the outside areas. Horse-drawn carriage rides of the grounds are offered as well. 

The Magic Garden is first on this list because it is truly magical. It’s the coolest playground that I have seen and definitely one of the best things to do in London with a toddler. Plus, we love that you can also explore the palace and learn a bit of history while you are there. Check out the palace’s schedule to learn more about family friendly events like jousting, theater events, and more.

Cost: £26.30 – £29.00 for adults, £13.10 – £14.50 for children between 6-17. Kids 5 and under are free. Open at 11 am through October 29, 2023 First come first serve, there can be a line. There is a time limit on busy days. Bring: swimsuit and towel

2. Brigit’s Bakery Peppa Pig Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

My daughter is in a major Peppa Pig phase, and she loves buses. On this tour, you get to cruise around London going past sites including the Tower of London, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge while enjoying afternoon tea.

Charles and I were impressed with how well done this tour is. When you arrive at your table, tea sandwiches (such as egg salad, cheese, caprese) and sweet treats are set out for you. Once the tour gets going, you receive your choice of tea in a Peppa Pig travel mug. (Kids get milk or juice). Warm scones with clotted cream and jam arrive later. 

A guide points out sites, leads a couple of songs (like Wheels on the Bus), and introduces clips from the Peppa Pig show which play on screens at each table. 

I would say that the prime ages for this tour are 3-5 years old. Perhaps the best part for me was that Gwen fell asleep 10 minutes before the tour ended and proceeded to take a two hour nap after being transferred to her stroller!

The company is also offering a Paddington themed tour which welcomes children ages 5 and up. The Peppa Pig tour is for kids 2 and older. The Classic Afternoon Tea Bus Tour is for children and adults 5 and older.

Cost: £48.00 – £68.00 for adults, £38.00 – £58.00 for adults Pre-booking required.

3. Discover Children’s Story Center

While London doesn’t have a children’s museum, this is close. Located just off the Jubilee Line’s Stratford Station, this indoor/outdoor play space is perfect for children ages 3-5.  Officially, the space welcomes kids aged 0-11.

The play areas are meant to inspire the imagination and storytelling. There is a musical forest, a space ship, clouds, a craft area and outdoor story garden. Guests have the option of adding storytelling sessions and visits to an immersive exhibit to their ticket. Gwen played here for 2.5 hours. It was a massive hit.

An onsite cafe offers lunch and snacks. An added bonus is that it’s right by the massive Westfield mall so you can easily add some shopping to this outing.

Cost: £9 per person, storytelling sessions are an additional £2.50 and exhibit entrance is an additional £3.50 Pre-book online.

4. London Transport Museum

This museum has a lot to offer both children and adults. Gwen’s grandfather learned all about the history of the London railway system while she played in the play areas. 

Many of the other museums on this list are free, but this one does require adults to buy a ticket. The ticket is actually a yearly membership, but I think it’s worth it. Since the museum is right in Covent Garden, it’s so easy to get to, and it wasn’t as crowded as the free museums (like the Museum of Science and the Museum of Natural History). We ended up going a second time because the weather wasn’t great – and she loved it just as much the second time.

There are some kid-friendly games sprinkled throughout the museum, plus you can go onto some of the vehicles. The big attractions for little ones are a bus that you can sit in and pretend to drive and a play area on the first floor with a play bus and ferry.

When you buy your initial membership, you will get a membership number that you will need to make subsequent bookings. Pre-booking is highly recommended.

Cost: £24 for adults (annual membership), children 17 and under are free Pre-book your visit online.

5. Museum of the Docklands

Located near the Canary Wharf station, you might not immediately think of bringing a toddler to a museum dedicated to the history of the Thames River, shipping, and ship building, but the Mudlarks play area is excellent. Just remember to pre-book a play session.

Mudlarks has a large soft-play space, costumes to try on, areas where kids can try to load up ships, and a boat themed water play area. You might want to pack a change of clothing.

A lovely cafe next to the play area offers kids meals.

Cost: entrance to this museum is free, but Mudlarks play sessions are £2.50 per person. Pre-book a Mudlarks play session . Bring: a change of clothing.

6. The London Zoo

London’s Zoo is located within Regent’s Park. Gwen loved it so much that the next morning she woke up and asked to see more animals. Maybe it was me, but I felt like I was always lost at this zoo. Sadly some of the animals, like the lions, seemed to be hiding when we visited. The zoo would probably be higher up on this list if we didn’t live in Chicago which has an incredible free zoo that we visit often.

Overall, this zoo is large, stroller friendly, and has plenty of meal options. Gwen’s favorite areas were Penguin Beach and the tiger habitat.

Cost: £31.00 – £33.00 per adult, children ages 3-15 £21.70 – £23.10, children 2 and under are free.

7. National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum’s AHOY Gallery is a soft play area geared towards kids under 7 years old. The nautical themed space has toy cannons, a pirate ship, and a fish market. I think that prime ages for this are 2-5.

We didn’t see much of the museum beyond AHOY, but there are some costumes for kids to play with scattered throughout the museum.

This museum is in Greenwich, and it is a darling area! I wish we had more time to explore, but we needed to get back on the tube to beat rush hour. If you need a quick bite, there is a Gail’s Bakery right next to the museum.

Visiting this museum provides you with a perfect opportunity to take the ferry along the Thames. We paired this with seeing the Museum of the Docklands and used the ferry to get from one to the other!

Cost: the museum is free, admission to AHOY is £3.00 for 1 child and 1 adult Book a time slot for AHOY in advance.

8. Paddington Recreation Playground

This playground in Maida Vale has different sections for children of different ages. It is easily to get to from the Maida Vale stop on the Bakerloo line.

The different areas include a ship, climbing areas, slides, swings, and a little kid sized row of townhomes.

9. Diana, Princess of Wales, Memorial Playground

This playground in Hyde Park is one of the most well-known in London. Inspired by the story of Peter Pan, the centerpiece of the playground is a large wooden pirate ship with a tall crows nest that children can climb up. 

The playground is very popular and once capacity is reached a line will form. The website warms that the queue can form as early as 10 am and it can last all day. (We got right in on a sunny weekday in June).

There are bathrooms, a cafe, and a picnic area next to the playground. Bring a change of clothing and a towel; this park has both water and sand.

10. The Children’s Garden at Kew Gardens

The children’s garden has areas dedicated to the earth’s elements. There is a wooden climbing area, tiny individual trampolines that are sunk into the ground, a mini versions of the treetops found elsewhere in the park, and a large field for picnicking. 

I see this as being a nice bonus if you are going to visit Kew Gardens, but I wouldn’t plan a trip to Kew Gardens around seeing the Children’s Garden. Be sure to look online since sometimes the garden closes for dedicated play sessions, and be aware that sometimes inaccurate information is communicated. 

Cost: £40.00 for a family ticket (2 adults and 2 children), £17.00 for adults, £5.00 for children 4-15 years old. Pre-booking recommended.

11. The Science Museum

The only reason why this museum isn’t higher on the list is that it was very crowded with school field trips, even the young children’s play area was packed! This museum is free, but pre-book a time slot. You don’t need to make a booking to go to the play area, called The Garden.

To get to The Garden, you need to go through the space exhibit and Gwen was very excited to see the exhibit with the astronaut. The Garden has areas for building, climbing, and exploring.

After Gwen had played for an hour, we went to the cafe where she had a kid’s lunch box. 

12. The Museum of Natural History

Since this museum is free and just next to the Science Museum, we stopped in to see the dinosaurs. It was very very crowded with both tourists and school trips. 

I recommend starting off by seeing the stegosaurus and then going up the escalator through the center of the earth, just behind the stegosaurus. Why? Kid’s love a fun escalator! Before leaving, see the whale skeleton in the stunning great entrance. 

By this point, Gwen was asleep in her stroller. Huge parenting win!

13. Sealife Aquarium

When Gwen wanted to see “more animals” I thought it made sense to go to the aquarium. I felt like this aquarium, located right by the London Eye and the Shrek attraction, was both crowded and cheesy. But, she loved getting to see the sharks and penguins.

Book your tickets online in advance to save money.

Cost: £29.50 – £40.00 for adults, £30.00 for children 3-15 years old, children under 3 are free.

14. Hamleys

The world’s oldest toy store is massive, and crowded. But, it’s a must see for anyone with young children. It’s similar to FAO Schwartz in NYC. There are plenty of Paddington, Peppa Pig, and London themed toys spread across 7 levels. 

On Our List for Next Time:

I did lots of research on the best things to do in London with a toddler but we didn’t have time for everything. Here are some of the things that we plan to do next summer.

Children’s Theater

There are so many theaters offering productions for children in London. Some plays are toddler friendly, while others are geared towards school-aged children.

Puppet Theatre Barge

Speaking of children’s theater, the Puppet Theatre Barge looks amazing! It didn’t fit in our schedule this time, but I want to go next summer.

A City Farm

Did you know that there are city farms scattered throughout London? One of my husband’s colleagues recommended Mudchute , which is just across the river from the Maritime Museum. Mudchute is a 32 acre farm with over 100 animals, and admission is free. Mudchute Kitchen offers onsite dining. I have also heard great things about Kentish Town City Farm.

Postal Museum

The Postal Museum has a play space called Sorted! This space was created for children ages 0-8 and it includes a mail counter where children can weigh and stamp letters, a parcel sorting area, and postal themed dress up clothes.

You can visit the play space without visiting the museum. If you choose to visit both, a discount is given. Children might want to visit the museum so that they can ride on the Mail Rail.

Cost: £17 for adults, £10 for children 3-15, and children 2 and under are free. The Postal Play Space requires a ticket which is £5 for children (adults do not need tickets). Book a 45 minute play session for Sorted! in advance.

Things to Do with Slightly Older Children:

As of January 2024, Kidzania has closed.

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Have you been to London with a little one? What do you think that the best things to do in London with a toddler are?

13 Ideas For A 2-Day Trip To London With Kids

L ondon is one of the oldest and most exciting of the world's great cities. From phenomenal shopping to award-winning restaurants to some of the globe's best attractions, this exceptional city offers everything you'd want from a family vacation. Although it would take days, or better yet weeks, to truly explore the U.K.'s buzzy capital, there are plenty of ways to make the most out of a quick, 48-hour visit with kids.

Traveling with an aspiring history buff? The Tower of London will pique their interest with tales of war, murder, and imprisonment. Have a budding actor in tow? A West End musical is sure to inspire their love of theater. Perhaps your little one is obsessed with all things vehicular. Whether they adore buses, trains, or horses and buggies, they'll find it, and so much more, at the London Transport Museum. 

Although two days is a short time to spend in one of the world's greatest cities, it's easy to placate every family member with such an exhaustive list of places to visit. In addition to seeing the essential big-ticket attractions (i.e. Big Ben and Buckingham Palace), this list of the best things to do on a 2-day trip to London with kids will ensure you'll also experience some local, family-friendly fun.

Read more: 28 Bucket List Destinations That Everyone Needs To Experience At Least Once

Day One: Eat A Full English Breakfast

Assuming you aren't jetlagged, it's best to rise early and get the most out of your 48 hours in London. There's little worse than dragging hangry kids on a day of sightseeing, so feed them a hearty meal before setting off. London is known for its full English breakfasts, which consist of sausages, potatoes, eggs, tomatoes, and mushrooms.  Regency Café tops many lists of best breakfasts in London. Known for its affordable, full English breakfast, this is a hot spot for tourists and locals alike. You may recognize its Art Deco-styled interior from films like "Layer Cake" and  "Rocketman." Opened in 1946, this London staple lies in the borough of Westminster, almost equidistant from Pimlico and St. James Park tube stations. It's a mere 12-minute walk from Westminster Abbey and Big Ben, making this a perfect place to start a day of visiting attractions. 

Not a fan of the full English? There are plenty of tasty brekkies on offer at pubs and restaurants throughout the city, many of which include the classic jam and scone. Or, treat the kids to a meal they won't forget at Duck & Waffle , on the 40th floor of 110 Bishopsgate in London's business district. This "gastro diner" is open 24 hours, seven days a week, and is named for its signature dish. Don't worry, there are also plenty of kid-friendly options like bacon, eggs, pastries, and a vast array of flavored waffles to go with the impeccable view. 

Take A Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

While riding The Underground is one of the fastest (and cheapest) ways to get around London, climbing aboard a hop-on hop-off bus tour is much more fun, not to mention educational. Plus, it's rare to meet a kid who hates double-decker buses. Blanketing 607 square miles, the U.K.'s largest city provides tourists with a lot of ground to cover. And if you only have two days to explore London with kids, you'll want to make things as simple as possible. 

London's Big Bus Tours are more than worth the $58 for a one-day adult pass and $46 for kids. The 48-hour pass costs only $14 more, which is a bargain. These tickets also include a one-way Thames River cruise, which runs in either direction from Westminster to Tower Pier. Just hop back on the bus from a nearby stop to get back. To really package a deal, the Essential Ticket, which lasts 48 hours, gives you access to three guided walking tours -- Changing of the Guard, City of London, and Jack the Ripper. 

No matter which ticket you book, expect to see London's best attractions.  The three routes (Red, Blue, and Green) are covered on each tour and include stops at The London Eye, Whitehall, Covent Garden, London Bridge, Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park Corner, and Piccadilly Circus, to name a few. Let your mood, or better yet the kids, guide you to where you'll hop off next.

Ride The London Eye

Hop off the bus at The London Eye and get ready for a spectacular vista. Originally called the Millennium Wheel, this massive Ferris wheel (it's 443 feet tall) was supposed to be a temporary attraction. In fact, this extraordinary landmark was designed to be dismantled after five years. However, people wanted it to stay indefinitely. So it did! Today, the London Eye is the most popular paid-for visitor attraction in the U.K. The wheel consists of 32 "ovid capsules" that transport visitors super slowly (each one only revolves twice in one hour). They represent the 32 boroughs that make up Greater London and each one can hold 25 passengers. 

From the capsule, you'll be given a bird's eye view of London's architectural gems, like Westminster Abbey, Lambeth Palace, the Natural Museum of History, Buckingham Palace, and Whitehall Court. On a super clear day, you may even spy Windsor Castle and Wembley Stadium. Make the most of your  ride on the London Eye by booking tickets in advance. Also, try to plan your visit outside of holidays and summer weekends, if possible. When you've returned to the ground, walk across Westminster Bridge, stopping halfway for a photo op with the most magnificent backdrop -- Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. 

Say Hi To Big Ben

Visiting London without seeing Big Ben is akin to visiting Rome and skipping out on the Colosseum -- it just shouldn't be done. There's something magical about standing beneath the famed clock tower, which is actually named the Elizabeth Tower -- Big Ben is the name of the great bell inside. A whopping 226 feet high, this often-photographed monument is as tall as 21 London buses stacked on top of each other. While the tower's smaller quarter bells chime every 15 minutes, Big Ben itself tolls upon the hour.

With experience as a guide, it's recommended that you cross the street to Parliament Square. Kids will love running up and down the pathway to examine the bronze statues of Nelson Mandela and an imposing Sir Winston Churchill in the garden. Westminster Abbey lies just across the Square. If your little ones are up for exploring this beloved attraction, you'll be happy you spent the time. While inside, ask a staff member to point out the Family Trail. Kids can get a free badge at the shop after they've found the items on the list. Once finished at the Abbey, walk back towards Elizabeth Tower and you'll find Westminster Pier. This is a popular launch for Thames River cruises.

Take A River Cruise

River Thames sightseeing cruises leave from Westminster Pier and travel as far as Greenwich Pier. If you didn't opt for a bus tour that includes a cruise, this is a bucket-list activity your family won't want to miss -- seeing London's landmarks from the river offers a whole new perspective of their magnificence. Since you're pressed for time, the best route is a one-way ticket to Tower Bridge Quay. The trip will take about 30 minutes and passes many impressive attractions along the way, including the OXO Tower, St. Paul's Cathedral, The Tate Modern, Globe Theatre, and The Shard. At around $15 for adults over 16 and $10 for children ages 5 to 15, one-way cruises are pretty cheap.

The crew and skippers on these cruises are friendly and knowledgeable, offering interesting, and often funny, historical tidbits during their commentary. This is where many tourists learn about the (possibly true) legend of OXO's clever marketing scheme. When their application to add an illuminated sign outside their building was turned down in the late 1920s (advertising wasn't allowed on the South Bank), they integrated their three letters into the design. It still stands today. When the tour comes to an end, you'll embark at the Tower Bridge Quay, mere steps from one of London's most famous landmarks -- The Tower of London.

Tour The Tower Of London

As mentioned above, it's a short walk from Tower Bridge Quay to the Tower of London . Tower Hill Underground Station is five minutes away by foot and multiple buses stop nearby, making this an easy place to visit no matter where you're staying in London. Plan to spend a minimum of two hours at this attraction as there's a lot to see. Highlights include ogling the Crown Jewels, seeing the Royal Armories collections in The White Tower, and visiting the prison in the Bloody Tower. This is where you'll learn about murder plots and discover ancient torture methods. Search the Beauchamp Tower for graffiti made by prisoners in the 16th century. Your kids won't forget this experience!  

Two main eateries lie inside the Tower for when hunger pangs hit -- New Armories Café and Ravens Café. But, the meals can get pricey and often aren't as tasty as the nearby, budget-friendly, and kid-loved noodle restaurant, Wagamama. The Tower Hill location is just outside the main gate and boasts a fabulous view of Tower Bridge and a children's menu. Tickets to the Tower cost about $41 per adult and $20 per child between 5 and 15, so stay as long as possible to get your money's worth. Tip: Save money by purchasing The London Pass by Go City. You'll save up to 50% off major attractions like Westminster Abbey, The Tower of London, and Kensington Palace, as well as hop-on-hop-off bus tours and more.

Visit A Museum

If anyone has energy left, make your way to the Science Museum in South Kensington. It's one of the best museums to visit in London  with children. If your kids don't find hands-on gaming experiences, interactive experiments, or rockets exciting, the Natural History Museum and its vast display of dinosaurs are a mere one-minute walk away. And the V&A (Victoria & Albert) museum's art and design exhibits are just as close. Tip: The V&A Café is a must-visit if only to gawk at the impressive architecture and décor. It's the world's oldest museum restaurant. Enjoy a quick tea and scone or play hide and seek around the columns. Museum Mile, which is home to 13 museums, is located in the center of London. If those three don't pique your interest, you're sure to find something everyone will love. The best part? Admission is free for almost all of these museums

South Kensington is packed with restaurants that will please pretty much any palate. From oysters to Italian food to Indian dishes and high-end fare, tourists are spoiled for choice. If your crew is hungry, choose a restaurant that's right for you before heading back to your hotel.

Day Two: Wave To The King At Buckingham Palace

Start day two with a trip to Buckingham Palace. The London home of Britain's Royal family since 1837, this famous landmark is worth a visit, even if you merely walk around the perimeter. The State Rooms are open for tours over 10 weeks each summer. Book in advance as they fill up quickly. Certain exclusive guided tours are also available in winter and spring. Those hoping to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony should plan to arrive by 10:30 a.m. as the ceremony starts at 11 a.m. It doesn't last long and gets very crowded during the high season. Also, it's best to confirm the date and time before you go. The ceremony doesn't always take place. 

The Palace neighbors St. James's Park, known as "the most royal of London's Royal Parks." This is where you'll find impeccable views of Buckingham Palace from across the lake, and you may come face-to-beak with a pelican. Popular attractions like the Horse Guards Parade and the Admiralty Arch are also found here.

Walk To Trafalgar Square

From Buckingham Palace, walk along the Mall to Trafalgar Square, which will take about 20 minutes. You'll pass St. James's Park on your right and the Horse Guards Parade, as well as the Admiralty Arch. A great route for sightseeing, you'll pass enough attractions along the way to keep kids of all ages interested. They may even be distracted enough to not realize how far they've walked. Once you reach Trafalgar Square, it's time to take the obligatory tourist photos of the bronze lions and Nelson's Column. You'll have to stand quite far back to fit the entire column in the frame. There are public toilets as well as a café here if any of your crew is in need of a quick respite. 

Otherwise, you can head into the National Gallery to soak up some culture and admire the incredible works of art on display. Admission is free, the bathrooms are much nicer than those found outside, and there are three places to grab a warm coffee or bite to eat. Throughout the year, there are family activities, like kid-friendly tours and creative drawing programs.

Watch Buskers And Visit The Transport Museum In Covent Garden

If the kids are still up for walking, make your way to Covent Garden, which is another eight minutes away on foot. Otherwise, hop back on your bus tour or hail a black cab. Buskers, sweets shops, and the Transport Museum will have children enthralled by this bustling neighborhood. Covent Garden's Market plays host to a bevy of handmade jewelry, arts, crafts, and soaps, among other products, and Neal's Yard is home to colorful shops and delicious restaurants.  St JOHN Bakery  serves up "London's fluffiest doughnuts," while Homeslice boasts pizza so delicious, you'll want seconds.

While you're in the West End, why not check out a musical? Many offer matinee performances once during the week and on weekends. Children under age 4 aren't permitted at some theaters, and others say children between ages 3 and 7 will be asked to leave if they become too restless, so keep that in mind if you're traveling with little ones. The Theatre Royal Drury Lane (which is currently showing "Frozen: The Musical") is a four-minute walk from Covent Garden.

Shop At Hamley's

Placate the kids with a shopping spree on Regent Street, which is easily reached by hopping on the Tube at Covent Garden Station. Want to win parent of the year? Get off at Picadilly Circus and walk the eight minutes to Hamleys , deemed by many to be the "finest toy shop in the world." It's also the largest, boasting seven floors filled with every stuffed toy and gadget a child could dream of. Shopping here is an adventure in and of itself. There are often toy demonstrations that include free manicures (for kids) and testing of the latest and greatest gizmos. Don't miss the life-sized LEGO statue of King Charles. Regent Street's not just for kids. 

This shopping wonderland is home to Massimo Dutti, Karl Lagerfeld, Burberry, and the stunning Liberty London, a historic department store set in a heritage-listed building. There are also cafés, restaurants, and pubs on hand to satiate anyone who's ready for a snack. When you've finished giving your wallet a workout, hop back in the tube at Oxford Circus and make your way to Queensway. Walk into Kensington Gardens and you'll find the Diana Memorial Playground on your right before you reach Kensington Palace and Round Pond. 

Run Around At Diana Memorial Playground

Park yourself, and your newly purchased packages, on a bench while the kids run wild at this Peter Pan-themed play space. Built in honor of Princess Diana, children can walk the plank on a pirate ship, hide in a teepee, or dig for buried treasure in the ginormous sandbox at this fantastic playground. A highlight for tourists traveling to London with kids, this park receives more than one million visitors each year, so be prepared to wait, especially if you're planning to arrive during a holiday, in summer, or on a warm and sunny day. At peak times, the wait can be up to one hour. Luckily, the Broad Walk Café is open daily from 9 a.m. to serve parents a much-needed specialty coffee or tea, as well as pastries, pizza, sandwiches, and ice cream for little ones.

Save a bit of time to wander around Kensington Gardens, another magnificent Royal Park that was once the private gardens of Kensington Palace. Lead the kids on a scavenger hunt to find the Peter Pan statue. It lies by The Long Water, just across from Hyde Park.

Have Afternoon Tea

What's a trip to London without afternoon tea ? While there are plenty of places to get a proper tea service, there are also plenty of kid-friendly tea options. Head to The Ampersand Hotel in South Kensington (by black cab is easiest) for an experience every child will love -– Kid's Jurassic Afternoon Tea. For around $43 per child, they'll fill up on enough sammies, scones, and pastries that they probably won't need dinner. Everything is served in a tiered dinosaur tray with dry ice. 

Peppa Pig's Afternoon Tea Bus Tour is a must for fans of The Pig Wonder. For a full 90 minutes, you and your tykes will be transported via double-decker bus past some of London's most famous landmarks. As you ride, Peppa Pig will guide you on a built-in tablet. There's a sing-a-long, too, so warm up your voices before boarding and prepare to oink. You'll also receive a themed tea service. These tours are available two to three times daily from Thursday to Sunday and depart from Somerset House. Tickets begin at $59 per adult or $47 per child. 

Another fun option is the Paddington Afternoon Tea Bus Tour. This 1:45-hour ride takes visitors past Paddington's favorite Central London attractions with narration from the bear himself via a tablet at each table. Tours run twice daily from Wednesday to Sunday and leave from Trafalgar Square. Tickets start at $55 per adult and $43 per child and include marmalade sandwiches (obviously) as well as other tasty treats and tea, of course.

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We asked, you answered: Parent-approved tips on traveling with kids under 2

Becky Harlan

Last month, Life Kit asked parents to share their go-to advice for traveling with babies and toddlers under age 2 as part of an episode we did on the subject. Over 200 folks responded with tips they wish they'd known before taking a big trip with a little one.

Reading through these responses, it became clear there's no magic hack that works for every kid. Some parents swore by sticking to their kid's sleep schedule on a trip, others said their vacation was smoother when they let the usual routine go. Some sang the praises of the overnight flight (so their child would sleep on the plane), others said their child has never slept more than 10 minutes on a plane no matter the timing.

I flew to Japan with my baby. Here's the travel advice that helped me survive the trip

A few pieces of advice held true throughout. A hungry kid is an unpleasant kid, and children are messy. So packing lots of snacks, extra diapers and a change of clothes ranked high on the list of must-dos. Almost 40 of over 200 responses suggested packing extra outfits in your carry-on for your kid and for you. (If your charge spits up, throws up, blows out or spills it will also get on you!)

So here's a non-exhaustive, impossible-to-be-comprehensive, but-hopefully-still-helpful round-up of your top advice for traveling with little kids. These responses have been edited for length and clarity.

What to pack

A stroller that can be stored in the overhead bin. It's a game changer to not have to check clunky strollers at the gate or check-in counters. —Amy P.

A change of clothes for yourself. If the baby spits up or has a blowout, there's a high likelihood that the mess will end up on you too, especially if you're holding them. Also, be sure to bring a bag to put messy clothes in. Reusable waterproof bags are great and they keep the smell in! —Jenna Yount

Extra diapers. You think you will be fine but if something comes up it's not a good situation to be in. —Jeanna Limtiaco

Overnight diapers. Fewer diaper changes in transit makes everyone happier. —Samantha Warren

Snacks. Remember, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration allows for any size baby food [and baby or toddler beverage], so pack those pouches! —Clara W.

Meds you and your kids might need in flight. That includes chewable Tylenol, Imodium, Dramamine, Zofran, ginger chews, Band-Aids and alcohol wipes. —Paige Ellis

A dark-colored bath towel. It's a blanket, it's for tidying up, it's a tablecloth, it's a sun cover, it shields bottoms from hot slides, it dries off swings. It's a multi-tasking powerhouse. —Judith Heise

Consider what may make sense to buy, rent or borrow upon arrival. You don't need to stuff everything into your suitcase. Buy some of your diapers and snacks at your destination. See if you can borrow or rent large, bulky items like car seats or travel cribs from Facebook Marketplace or your hotel or Airbnb. —Jocelyn Newman

How to get through the flight

Get to your gate an hour before boarding. It gives you time to feed your child, change their diapers, have a cup of coffee and fill your water bottle. It can also help your kid let out their energy before they have to sit on the plane. —Shelly C.

Check the airport for family friendly spaces. Use nursing spaces or pods and family restrooms to reset as needed. Check lounges for nursing and play rooms. —Sara Conger

Take an early morning flight. Those are least likely to get delayed, which is important when traveling with kids. —Carina Ochoa

Parenthood Is A Shock To The System. These Tips Can Help You With The Transition

Board with your partner separately. If you're traveling with two caregivers, have one go on the plane first with all the stuff and do the gate-checking of the stroller while the other hangs back with the kids until the last minute. It gives kids more time to run around! —Andrea De Francesca

Get a plane seat for your kid. Even though many airlines allow kids under 2 to fly for free as a lap baby, if you can afford to get them their own seat, it is worth it. It is recommended for safety to have them in a car seat, according to the Federal Aviation Administration, and the extra space for them to move around is nice. —Nicole Shelledy

Be ready for motion sickness. We were not prepared for how easily some little ones get motion sickness on an airplane. Have throw-up bags handy at all times. —Tiff Bankhurst

Prevent ear discomfort. Sucking during take off and landing may help relieve ear discomfort. My babies have flown with me from 4 weeks onward and never had a problem as long as they had a bottle or sippy cup or straw to suck on. —Shelly Ransom

Don't plan on them sleeping on the plane. It's great if they do, but if it doesn't happen, you'll be frustrated. —Colleen Mayerhoff

Don't worry too much about your kid "bothering" other people. The vast majority of people don't care, and many have been in the same situation you've been in and feel nothing but empathy for you. As for those who do care, they are not guaranteed a child-free existence in public. Kids are part of society too, and they are also allowed to take up space. —Jenna Yount

Make friends with the flight crew. They're going to help, they've got more experience than you, and they also want the flight to be pleasant. —April Graham

Save the screens for the flight. If you're using a screen, wait until you're on the plane. While you're waiting in the terminal, let them move as much as possible. Find an empty gate and play Simon Says, see who can jump in one place the longest, do animal charades. Let them go wild. —Paige Ellis

Download age-appropriate shows for your child on an iPad. (But know that if your kid is under age 2 they'll mostly just want to push the buttons.) —Chantel Dockstader

Travel hacks

Find a lodging close to a grocery store and a park. It makes it easy to buy last-minute things and burn off their energy easily at a park. —Gillian Molina

Dress your young kids in bright, matching shirts. I once traveled alone when my kids were 2, 4 and 6. We all wore matching yellow shirts so people could see we were together. —Emily Hernandez

If you want to let your little one crawl around , bring a pair of socks that you can put over their hands. Then you don't have to worry about dirty hands afterward. —Shannon Geraghty

Hire a photographer. You'll have photos with everyone in them, maybe get to see some scenic parts of the city you hadn't seen before. Dress up, wear matching outfits, be extra! They're only little once. —Tina Doyle

Helpful mindsets

It's not a vacation. It's a trip. You're just parenting in a new place. Set your expectations accordingly. —Laura Henriquez

The airport/train/bus/car is not the time to enforce the normal at-home rules. Do you want Doritos at 7 a.m. at the airport? OK. Do you want to watch 20 episodes of Blippi on the plane? No problem. There are no rules when traveling. This also makes traveling fun for kids because they get to do something different. —Meg Houston

Build in extra time to do things. It will decrease the chances of you and your child getting into stressful situations. —Cori DeLano

You're not going to get as much done as you think with a kiddo in tow. Think about things like nap schedule, traveling with a stroller, meltdowns, diaper changes. On my most "successful" trip with my kiddo, we planned one big activity a day and left the rest of the day open with some general ideas and left room for flexibility. —Whitney Winters

They might not remember, but you will. —Nina Hartman

The digital story was edited by Malaka Gharib. The visual editor is Beck Harlan. We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823, or email us at [email protected].

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