Top Fun Things To Do In London With Kids for a Memorable Visit!

Are you planning your trip and looking for things to do in London with kids? The cardinal rule for all seasoned travellers with kids is to organise leisure time to balance adult interests and children’s needs. It sounds simple, but the art of juggling sightseeing, daytime sleep, mood swings, physical activity and meals requires at least some persistence and organisation.

If you’re travelling to a metropolis with a young person, especially a pre-schooler, the measured pub-walking, spontaneous choice of entertainment and quiet contemplation of city life can be forgotten. Nevertheless, the city can reveal its most charming side on such a trip. London makes sure it’s comfortable and fun for everyone, so there are tons of things to do in London with kids. So, let’s explore the top things to do in London with kids.

Fun Things To Do In London With Kids

London, a vibrant and exciting city, offers a plethora of activities that are sure to delight kids of all ages. Here are some fun things to do with your little ones.

Iconic Trademarks

London, a city steeped in history and culture, is home to several iconic trademarks that have become synonymous with the city’s identity.

A Wizarding World Awaits: The Harry Potter Studio Tour

The Harry Potter Studio Tour, located in Leavesden, Hertfordshire, is a must-visit destination for any fan of the iconic wizarding world. This immersive experience brings to life the beloved characters, locations, and props from the Harry Potter films.

As you step into the Great Hall, you’ll be transported back to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The towering ceilings, enchanted ceiling lights, and long tables laden with feast spread create a magical atmosphere. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore other iconic locations, such as Dumbledore’s office, the Gryffindor common room, and the Forbidden Forest.

One of the highlights of the tour is the chance to see the intricate props and costumes used in the films. From Harry’s iconic wand to the Sorting Hat, you’ll be amazed by the attention to detail that went into creating this magical world. You can also explore the Diagon Alley set, where you’ll find shops like Ollivanders, Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, and Flourish and Blotts.

The studio tour also features interactive exhibits that allow you to experience the wizarding world firsthand. You can try on a Hogwarts uniform, ride a broomstick, and even create your own potion. There are also behind-the-scenes displays that reveal the secrets of filmmaking, such as how the special effects were created and how the actors prepared for their roles.

For Harry Potter fans, the Studio Tour is a dream come true. It offers a unique opportunity to step into the wizarding world and experience the magic firsthand. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply curious about the world of Harry Potter, the Studio Tour is a must-visit destination.

A Waxen Wonderland: Madame Tussauds London

Madame Tussauds, a world-renowned wax museum chain, offers visitors the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and fictional characters. The London branch, situated in the heart of Marylebone, is one of the most popular attractions in the city.

Upon entering Madame Tussauds London, visitors are greeted by a dazzling array of exhibits. From the moment they step through the doors, they are immersed in a world of celebrity glamour and historical intrigue. The museum is carefully curated to provide a seamless and interactive experience, allowing visitors to feel like they are truly mingling with the famous.

One of the most popular exhibits at Madame Tussauds London is the Spirit of London, which features a collection of iconic British figures throughout history. Visitors can encounter historical giants such as Queen Elizabeth II, Winston Churchill, and Charles Darwin, as well as contemporary celebrities like David Beckham, Adele, and Harry Potter.

The attention to detail in the wax figures is truly remarkable. Each figure is meticulously crafted to capture the likeness, expressions, and even the clothing of the real-life individuals they represent. Visitors can get so close that they may even find themselves reaching out to touch the figures or strike a pose with them.

In addition to the static exhibits, Madame Tussauds London also offers interactive experiences. Visitors can participate in a virtual reality experience, take a selfie with their favourite celebrity, or even “walk the red carpet” and feel the thrill of being a star.

For families with children, Madame Tussauds London offers a range of child-friendly activities. There are interactive exhibits designed specifically for younger visitors, as well as opportunities to meet and greet popular children’s characters.

Parks for the Kids to Enjoy

In any season, London’s parks are fun places to hang out with the family, stroll through fantasy trees, play sports or active games, or exercise your child’s motor skills on cool playgrounds.

From spring blossoms to autumnal colours, London’s parks are a joy to visit throughout the year. In summer, they become havens for picnics, family gatherings, and leisurely strolls. The traditional British pastime of afternoon tea can be enjoyed in grand style at establishments like The Orangery in Kensington Gardens, providing a delightful experience for adults and children alike.

Each park has its unique charm and attractions. Holland Park, a small but enchanting oasis, is nestled in Notting Hill. Visitors can wander among peacocks, marvel at giant fish in the Japanese garden pond, explore flower beds, and stroll around the Jacobaean-style manor house. The park also boasts a charming playground adjacent to a cafe, making it a perfect spot for families.

Kensington Gardens: Royal Charm

Kensington Gardens, a Royal Park, provides a grand setting, bordering Kensington Palace, the residence of Prince William and Kate Middleton. Its expansive lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and the serene Serpentine Lake offer a tranquil escape for families. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, admire the beautiful flower displays, or take a boat ride on the Serpentine. The Albert Memorial, a grand Victorian monument, is a prominent feature of the park, offering a glimpse into the city’s history.

Hyde Park: A London Landmark

Hyde Park, a vast green space, offers a wealth of activities, including a boating lake, cycling paths, and open spaces for playing games. At its junction with Kensington Gardens is the Lady Diana Memorial Playground, designed with Peter Pan in mind and adapted for children with disabilities. The playground’s whimsical design and inclusive features make it a popular destination for families. The park also hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and exhibitions, making it a vibrant hub of activity.

Regent’s Park: A Blend of Beauty and History

Regent’s Park is known for its beautiful gardens, a picturesque boating pond, and the world’s oldest zoo, ZSL London Zoo. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the pond, explore the zoo’s diverse animal exhibits, or simply relax in the park’s beautiful gardens.

The park’s grand avenues, lined with trees and ornate lampposts, create a picturesque setting for a stroll. The Regent’s Canal, which runs through the park, offers a unique perspective on the city with its charming bridges and canal boats.

Richmond Park: A Deer Sanctuary

For those seeking a more adventurous outing, Richmond Park, located in the quaint town of Richmond, offers a unique experience. Visitors can stroll among free-roaming deer, often accompanied by local dogs. The park also boasts a large green parrot population, their presence adding to the park’s natural charm. Richmond Park is a vast expanse of green space, offering scenic walks and opportunities for wildlife spotting. It’s a favourite destination for families looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in nature.

Greenwich Park: History and Views

Greenwich Park, situated near the Royal Observatory, offers breathtaking views of the city. Visitors can stand on the Prime Meridian, enjoy a visit to the National Maritime Museum, or let their children loose in the park’s playground.

The park also boasts a flower garden, a rose garden, a ‘wild’ area, and a small deer reserve. The park’s rich history, combined with its stunning views and diverse attractions, makes it a captivating destination for families.

Hampstead Heath: A North London Escape

Hampstead Heath, a vast and beautiful park in north London, offers stunning views, walking trails, and open spaces for relaxing and playing games. It’s a favourite destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a chance to escape the city and enjoy nature. The park’s rolling hills provide a challenging yet rewarding hike, while its open spaces are ideal for a picnic or a game of frisbee.

Crystal Palace Park: A Journey Through Time

Crystal Palace Park, in south-east London, offers a truly unique and surreal experience. The park’s most iconic attraction is the collection of stone dinosaurs and prehistoric animal figures dating back 150 years. Though somewhat dated by modern standards, these large-scale sculptures are a charming reminder of Victorian-era science and imagination.

The park also features a maze, a hilly landscape, old trees, winding paths, the remains of a ruined castle, a lake, and a picturesque alley. For children, a playground continues the theme of prehistoric creatures. A sand area allows children to explore a stone dinosaur skeleton, dig for fossils, or sit in an uncovered egg.

Visit a Museum

On top of the list of things to do in London with kids is to visit museums. There are many of them; they are huge and unique. Almost everyone has a barrier-free environment, restrooms and a special programme for younger visitors.

However, passive attention to art or history with children can be confusing or tedious, so we have highlighted only those places where younger travellers will definitely find them interesting or at least spacious.

Natural History Museum

Every child in London is enthralled by dinosaurs, and the Natural History Museum (Cromwell Rd, Kensington, London SW7 5BD) is the perfect place to ignite this fascination. Home to a vast collection of fossils, skeletons, and exhibits, the museum takes visitors on a journey through Earth’s history, exploring the wonders of the natural world.

The museum’s most iconic attraction is the colossal skeleton of a Diplodocus, a long-necked dinosaur, standing majestically in the central hall. Children are enthralled by the impressive size of this prehistoric giant and the intricate details of its skeleton. The museum’s dinosaur exhibits are interactive, allowing children to touch fossils, learn about the different species, and imagine what life was like millions of years ago.

Beyond the dinosaurs, the museum offers a wealth of fascinating exhibits, including a collection of stuffed animals, a display of minerals and rocks, and a glimpse into the world of insects. The museum’s architecture is as impressive as its exhibits, with its grand Romanesque Byzantine style and ornate decorations.

Science Museum

Adjacent to the Natural History Museum is the Science Museum (Exhibition Rd, Kensington, London SW7 2DD), a haven for budding scientists and engineers. The museum’s interactive exhibits offer a hands-on approach to learning about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Children can explore the laws of physics, build their own creations, and delve into the world of flight and space exploration.

The museum’s collection spans centuries, showcasing the history of scientific discoveries and technological advancements. Visitors can witness the evolution of household appliances, explore the marvels of medicine and chemistry, and learn about the history of flight. The museum also features a dedicated space exploration exhibit showcasing the history of space travel, from early rockets to modern spacecraft.

The museum’s highlight is the Wonderlab, a state-of-the-art interactive gallery where children can explore science through playful experiments and demonstrations. This area features exhibits designed to engage young minds and spark their curiosity about the world around them.

Tate Modern

The Tate Modern (Bankside, London SE1 9TG) is a world-renowned art gallery featuring a vast collection of contemporary art from around the world. The museum is known for its expansive galleries, striking architecture, and thought-provoking exhibitions.

While the museum’s focus is on modern and contemporary art, it offers a variety of exhibits that are engaging and accessible for children. The museum’s interactive installations, playful sculptures, and vibrant colours offer a unique and engaging experience for young visitors.

Tate Modern also hosts regular family-friendly events, workshops, and performances designed to introduce children to the world of art in a fun and engaging way. The museum’s viewing platform, located on the top floor of the Switch House extension, offers stunning views of the city and provides a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape.

How to Get Around London with Kids  

Transport in London is as iconic as Big Ben or the now-abandoned telephone boxes. There’s no better place to start your London with kids trip than by introducing them to different modes of transportation. Buy your family Oyster Passes, and download the best Citymapper transit app.

London’s transport system is as iconic as Big Ben or the red telephone boxes, offering a unique and memorable experience for visitors. It’s a great way to introduce children to the city’s character and history.

The London Underground: A Journey Through Time

No trip to London would be complete without a ride on the world’s oldest tube system, the London Underground. It’s an adventure in itself, with its intricate network of tunnels, historic stations, and bustling atmosphere. While not all stations are accessible for prams, many offer lifts or escalators, making it manageable for families.

The Underground is a fascinating glimpse into London’s past, with stations showcasing original Victorian architecture. It’s also a testament to the city’s efficiency and organisation, transporting millions of people each day.

The Red Double-Decker Bus: A Classic Ride

Riding a red double-decker bus is a quintessential London experience. The open-top seating on the upper deck offers stunning views of the city, allowing you to admire iconic landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the Houses of Parliament.

You can choose a “Hop on, Hop off” tour bus, which allows you to hop on and off at different locations or simply enjoy a scenic ride on a regular bus route. Either way, it’s a fun and memorable way to see the city.

The River Bus: A Scenic Voyage

For a different perspective of London, consider taking a River Bus along the Thames. The River Bus offers a relaxing and scenic journey, with stunning views of the city’s skyline, historic bridges, and landmarks. It’s a great way to see the city from a unique vantage point.

The London Cable Car: An Aerial Adventure

For a truly unique experience, take a ride on the London Cable Car, which crosses the Thames on the city’s east side. The cable car offers breathtaking views of the city, particularly of the O2 Arena, Canary Wharf, and the River Thames. It’s a fun and exciting way to get from one side of the river to the other.

Black Cabs: A Symbol of London

Black cabs are an integral part of London’s landscape, and they are known for their iconic design and knowledgeable drivers. While they are a bit pricey, a black cab ride offers a unique experience. The drivers are required to undergo rigorous training, studying the city’s streets and routes in great detail. They often share their knowledge and insights about London, making the ride an informative and enjoyable experience.

London, a vibrant and exciting city, offers a plethora of activities that are sure to delight kids of all ages. From exploring iconic attractions and enjoying outdoor adventures to indulging in family-friendly entertainment, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for thrilling rides, educational experiences, or simply a fun-filled day out, London has it all. So pack your bags and get ready for a memorable adventure with your little ones!