15 Best Things to Do in London with Kids
London is one of the most exciting cities in the world, and it offers endless opportunities for families traveling with children. From world-class museums to interactive attractions and beautiful outdoor spaces, there’s something for every age and interest. If you’re planning a family trip, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do in London that will keep your kids entertained while also giving them a taste of the city’s rich culture and history.
In this guide, we’ll explore the 15 best things to do in London with kids. Each activity is carefully chosen to be educational, fun, and family-friendly, making your trip unforgettable. Some of these places are even included in the list of free things to do in London with kids, which is perfect if you’re traveling on a budget. Let’s dive into the top attractions and experiences that your children will love.
1. Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is a must-visit when looking for the best things to do in London with kids. It’s a fascinating space where science meets adventure, and children are immediately drawn to the life-sized dinosaur skeletons that greet visitors as soon as they step inside. The massive Diplodocus replica and animatronic T-Rex make the museum an unforgettable experience for kids of all ages.
What makes the Natural History Museum extra special for families is the interactive exhibits. Children can touch, play, and learn while exploring areas like the Earth Hall and the Volcanoes and Earthquakes galleries. These hands-on experiences transform learning into something enjoyable, sparking curiosity about the natural world. Parents often appreciate how the museum seamlessly blends education with fun, ensuring that the visit appeals to both children and adults.
The best part? Entry is free, which makes it one of the most popular free things to do in London with kids. Whether your little ones are fascinated by dinosaurs, animals, or space, the Natural History Museum is the perfect starting point for a family trip to London. For more information regarding ticket availability, please visit the Natural History Museum’s official website.
2. Science Museum
Another top destination for families is the Science Museum, which ranks high on the list of fun things to do in London. Unlike traditional museums, the Science Museum is designed to be interactive, encouraging children to participate in activities and experiments rather than just observing.
One of the highlights for kids is the Wonderlab, a dedicated area filled with hands-on experiments, live demonstrations, and even science shows. Children can experiment with light, sound, and motion, which makes learning exciting and fun. The interactive galleries are designed to engage all ages, from toddlers to teenagers, making it one of the most versatile family-friendly attractions in the city.
Admission to the main galleries is free, making it another excellent option for free things to do in London with kids. Whether your children are budding scientists or just enjoy interactive play, the Science Museum provides hours of entertainment that blends education and fun.
3. London Transport Museum
For children who are fascinated by vehicles, the London Transport Museum is a dream come true. Located in Covent Garden, this museum showcases the history of London’s iconic transport system, from double-decker buses to the famous Underground.
Kids will love climbing aboard historic buses, trains, and trams. There are also role-playing activities where they can pretend to be bus drivers or train conductors, making it one of the most enjoyable things to do in London with kids. The play zones are specially designed for younger children, ensuring they can engage in safe and educational fun.
Parents will appreciate how the museum makes history accessible and fun, while children are free to explore the fascinating world of transport. It’s a great way to combine learning with interactive play, making the London Transport Museum one of the top fun things to do in London.
4. Tower of London
The Tower of London is not only a historic site but also one of the most fascinating things to do in London with children. This medieval fortress holds centuries of stories, from royal intrigue to tales of prisoners and famous executions. Kids will be captivated by the Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters, who bring history to life with their storytelling.
One of the highlights for families is the chance to see the dazzling Crown Jewels. Children are often amazed by the glittering crowns, swords, and scepters on display. The Tower’s interactive displays and guided tours help make history come alive for younger visitors, making it an unforgettable experience.
Though it’s not free, the Tower of London offers excellent value, especially for families who want to combine education with fun. It’s a perfect way to show your kids history in a way they’ll remember forever.
5. Buckingham Palace
No trip to London is complete without visiting Buckingham Palace, and kids will especially enjoy witnessing the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony. This iconic tradition is a colorful and lively event where children can see guards dressed in their traditional red uniforms and bearskin hats.
Families often gather in front of the palace gates to watch the guards march in rhythm with music from the band. It’s one of the most unique and memorable things to do in London with kids, especially since the ceremony is free to watch. The excitement of the crowd adds to the festive atmosphere, making it an engaging experience for children.
After the ceremony, families can explore the nearby St. James’s Park, which has a playground and plenty of open space for kids to run around. Visiting Buckingham Palace combines royal history with outdoor fun, making it one of the top free things to do in London with kids.
6. The London Eye
The London Eye is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, offering panoramic views of London from above. For kids, the slow-moving observation wheel is a thrilling yet safe adventure. As the capsule rises, they’ll be able to spot famous attractions like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and even Buckingham Palace.
Riding the London Eye is not just about sightseeing—it’s also a fun experience that children won’t forget. Each ride lasts about 30 minutes, which is perfect for keeping kids engaged without overwhelming them. The glass capsules provide plenty of space to move around and take photos, making it a highlight for the whole family.
Though it requires tickets, many families consider the London Eye one of the most rewarding things to do in London with kids because it offers such a unique perspective of the city.
7. Hyde Park
For families looking for outdoor activities, Hyde Park is one of the best places to visit. It’s a vast green space where kids can run, play, and enjoy fresh air in the middle of the city. One of the highlights for children is the Diana Memorial Playground, which features a giant pirate ship and plenty of areas for climbing and exploring.
Another fun activity in Hyde Park is boating on the Serpentine Lake. Families can rent pedal boats or rowboats, which is a relaxing way to enjoy the scenery together. The park also has plenty of paths for cycling and walking, making it a perfect spot for families who love the outdoors.
As one of the best free things to do in London with kids, Hyde Park offers hours of entertainment without costing a penny. It’s a great break from the busier attractions while still providing plenty of fun for children.
8. Kew Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew is an enchanting destination that combines nature and adventure. Kids love the Treetop Walkway, which allows them to stroll high above the ground and see the gardens from a bird’s-eye perspective. It’s a unique experience that feels like an adventure in the sky.
Another highlight is the giant glasshouses, where families can explore tropical rainforests, desert plants, and more. The Princess of Wales Conservatory is especially fascinating for children who are curious about exotic plants and ecosystems.
For younger visitors, the Children’s Garden is designed as an immersive play space where kids can dig, climb, and explore nature. This makes Kew Gardens one of the most family-friendly attractions and a top choice when looking for fun things to do in London.
9. ZSL London Zoo
Located in Regent’s Park, the ZSL London Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the world and remains a top pick for families. It’s home to over 750 species of animals, giving children the chance to see everything from lions and tigers to penguins and reptiles.
Kids particularly love the new interactive areas, such as the Land of the Lions and Rainforest Life exhibits. These immersive zones allow families to get closer to the animals while learning about their habitats. The zoo also offers daily talks and feeding sessions, which make the experience even more engaging.
Visiting ZSL London Zoo is one of the best things to do in London with kids, especially for families who want to mix fun with wildlife education. It’s a day full of excitement and discovery that children will remember long after the trip.
10. Sea Life London Aquarium
The Sea Life London Aquarium is a magical underwater world located right next to the London Eye. Kids are always amazed by the glass tunnel where they can walk beneath sharks, turtles, and rays swimming overhead.
The aquarium is home to thousands of marine creatures, from seahorses and clownfish to jellyfish and crocodiles. Children can learn about different ocean ecosystems while enjoying interactive exhibits and feeding sessions. For many families, the penguin habitat is a favorite, where kids can watch these playful birds dive and swim.
If you’re looking for fun things to do in London with kids, the aquarium offers an engaging mix of education and entertainment. It’s also a great option for rainy days, making it a practical choice for family itineraries.
11. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
For families with young Harry Potter fans, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London is an absolute must. This attraction takes you behind the scenes of the beloved films, giving kids the chance to walk through real sets like the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and the Forbidden Forest.
Children will be enchanted by the magical props, costumes, and special effects that brought the wizarding world to life. They can even try riding a broomstick using green-screen technology, which makes for an unforgettable experience.
Though it requires advance booking and travel outside central London, this tour is one of the most magical things to do in London with kids. It’s a dream come true for fans of all ages and a highlight of many family trips.
12. Shrek’s Adventure! London
If your children love animated characters, Shrek’s Adventure! London is the perfect attraction. This interactive experience combines storytelling, live actors, and 4D effects to immerse families in the world of Shrek and his friends.
Kids can join Donkey on a magical journey, meet their favorite characters, and even participate in fun challenges along the way. The adventure is designed to be interactive, keeping children engaged throughout the experience.
Located near the London Eye and Sea Life Aquarium, Shrek’s Adventure is one of the most entertaining things to do in London with kids. It’s a family favorite that guarantees laughter and excitement for everyone.
13. Up at The O2
For families with older kids seeking adventure, Up at The O2 offers an unforgettable climbing experience. This activity allows visitors to scale the iconic O2 Arena with the help of safety gear and guides.
The climb is thrilling but safe, making it a fantastic way for adventurous children to challenge themselves. Once at the top, families are rewarded with panoramic views of London, which are especially stunning at sunset.
While it’s not suitable for very young children, this attraction is one of the most unique fun things to do in London for families with teenagers. It adds an element of adventure to your trip that goes beyond the typical sightseeing spots.
14. Explore Notting Hill
Notting Hill is a charming neighborhood that’s perfect for a family stroll. Kids will love spotting the colorful pastel houses that line the streets, which also make for fantastic family photos.
Families can wander through the famous Portobello Road Market, where children will be fascinated by the variety of food stalls, antiques, and street performers. It’s a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of London life.
Exploring Notting Hill is one of the best free things to do in London with kids. It’s a relaxed way to enjoy the city while soaking up its unique character and charm.
15. See a Show at Covent Garden
Covent Garden is a lively district filled with shops, cafes, and one of the best atmospheres in London. Families often visit for the street performers, who entertain crowds with music, magic tricks, and acrobatics. Kids are usually captivated by the lively shows that take place throughout the day.
In addition to street entertainment, Covent Garden offers plenty of family-friendly dining options and unique shops to explore. The vibrant environment makes it one of the most enjoyable things to do in London with kids, especially for families who love live entertainment.
Since much of the entertainment is free, Covent Garden is also an excellent option for families looking for free things to do in London with kids. It’s a fun and budget-friendly way to end your day in the city.
