Things to do in London with kids are practically endless in this vibrant city that caters to families of all interests and budgets. More than 1,881 attractions are scattered across Greater London’s landscape, and trust me, planning the perfect family trip might seem overwhelming at first! This vibrant city absolutely brims with exciting activities for kids – from gazing at dinosaur skeletons at the Natural History Museum to enjoying meals 100 feet up in the air.
You know what I love most about London? It caters to every family’s interests and budget. Your little ones can meet 14,000 amazing creatures at the London Zoo or watch the free spectacular Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. The city brilliantly blends paid attractions like the London Eye with free world-class museums that make family entertainment available to everyone.
I’ve spent countless hours exploring London with my nephews, and this guide highlights the absolute best family experiences in the city. I’ll cover everything from the new massive Monkey Valley enclosure at the London Zoo to the hands-on exhibits at the Science Museum that had my nephews begging to stay longer. Here are 18 activities that will create lasting memories for your family in 2025!
Natural History Museum: Dinosaurs and Discovery
Image Source: Natural History Museum
The dinosaur gallery at the Natural History Museum absolutely blew my mind – it’s like stepping into a time machine straight back to prehistoric times! I still remember my nephews standing in awe beneath those massive dinosaur skeletons that fill the space. Their eyes lit up with wonder in a way I’ll never forget. The best part? That animatronic T-Rex that moves and roars, which brings out excited squeals and nervous laughter from the little ones. Trust me, it’s worth the visit just to see their faces!
Interactive Exhibits for Different Ages
The museum does an amazing job catering to kids of all ages with hands-on activities. When I took my nephews, they spent countless hours at the Investigate Centre, a space designed for families with kids aged 5-14. They couldn’t get enough of looking at over 300 specimens from meteorites to shells under microscopes. The earthquake simulator is another favourite that lets kids feel what real seismic activity is like in a safe space. The Wonder Lab adds to the fun with galleries where kids can run their own experiments – I had to practically drag them away when it was time to leave!
Free Entry and Special Events
You know what’s incredible? This world-class museum’s general admission costs nothing, though you might need tickets for some temporary exhibits. You can visit daily from 10:00-17:50, and the last entry is at 17:30. The museum runs special family festivals and guided tours throughout the year. Young dinosaur fans love the early morning dinosaur gallery tours that happen before the museum opens to the public – it’s like having your own private Jurassic Park!
Best Times to Visit with Kids
I’ve learned through multiple visits that getting there right at opening (10:00 am) on weekdays helps you avoid the crowds and enjoy a quieter experience. Head to the Dinosaur Gallery first since it’s one of the busiest spots. The museum gets absolutely packed during school holidays and tourist season, so coming early makes a huge difference to your experience.
Nearby Family-Friendly Dining Options
When visiting with my nephews, we usually grab lunch at the T-Rex Restaurant in the Green Zone. Kids can enjoy mini pizzas and ice cream sundaes while adults pick from stonebaked pizzas and fresh salads. Budget-conscious families can bring their own food and use the Picnic Area on the lower ground floor. Nice weather? The museum’s gardens make a perfect outdoor picnic spot surrounded by greenery – just like those 17 best beaches in the UK that look like paradise, but right in central London!
The London Eye: Soaring Views of the City
Image Source: London Eye
I’ll never forget the moment my nephews and I let out a collective gasp as our glass pod slowly climbed 135 meters above London. The world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel gave us absolutely amazing 360-degree views that had us all speechless. The London Eye has become something I never miss during my trips to the capital with the kids. Both children and grown-ups love this incredible viewpoint!
London Eye Experience for Families
A 30-minute spin in one of the 32 high-tech glass pods shows off London’s famous landmarks in stunning detail. Kids love to spot familiar places like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. On clear days, you can see all the way to Windsor Castle – it’s like the perfect geography lesson right above the Thames!
The pods give families plenty of room for strollers, though they need to stay folded. A bench in the middle helps tired little ones rest. My younger nephew’s attention span worried me at first, but the ever-changing views kept him interested through the whole ride.
Combo Tickets and Saving Tips
Here are some great ways to save money while getting the most from your visit:
- Family pricing helps you save big, with tickets at £26 per person for adults and kids when bought as a group (kids under 3 ride free)
- Online booking saves you 10% compared to ticket office prices
- Multi-attraction passes help you save up to 65% when you add other family favourites like SEA LIFE London Aquarium or Shrek’s Adventure
- The Day and Night Experience lets families ride twice in one day. You can see both daytime views and London’s beautiful evening lights.
Best Times for Shorter Queues
Wait times change a lot throughout the year. Standard tickets mean waiting 20-30 minutes during quiet times and up to an hour during busy periods. Fast Track tickets cut this down to 5-10 minutes.
I’ve found that early mornings (first entry) or late afternoons (last entry) have the shortest lines. Weekdays outside school holidays are much quieter than weekends – kind of like when you’re trying to find space at those best breakfast places in London!
Booking online and picking your time slot ahead makes sense. This guarantees your entry and helps avoid disappointment during busy times – especially if you’re trying to fit in multiple attractions in one day.
London Zoo: Meet 14,000 Amazing Animals
Image Source: London Zoo
My nephews absolutely love every visit to London Zoo with its huge collection of animals – giraffes, monkeys, lions, and so many other amazing species. This historic zoo in Regent’s Park is one of the best things to do in London with kids. Trust me, the animal encounters create memories that last a lifetime!
Highlights for Different Age Groups
The petting zoo gives toddlers and preschoolers gentle animal interactions. They also enjoy splash zones in summer months and baby sensory sessions. Elementary-age kids love Monkey Valley where colobus monkeys swing above their heads, and the Giants of the Galápagos habitat draws them in. My teenage cousin connects more with conservation stories and takes part in more adventurous animal experiences.
New Attractions for 2025
ZooTown will completely reshape the scene in 2025. The old reptile house becomes a place where kids aged 3-8 can play different zoo roles – from zookeepers to conservationists and vets. Young visitors track animals in the Field Camp, check animal health in the Vet Hospital, and make meals in the Keeper Kitchen. I can’t wait to take my nephews there when it opens!
Conservation Education for Kids
London Zoo makes learning fun with age-appropriate resources tied to the curriculum. The Community and Learning Team creates activities from Early Years through university level that inspire future conservationists. Kids can download study guides about animal behaviour, join educational trips, and use special teacher resources covering science, English, and mathematics.
Special Experiences and Overnight Stays
The London Zoo Lodges give families a chance to sleep within earshot of Asiatic lions. Prices start at £202.50 per adult and £75 for each child. These stays include zoo tours after hours, meals, and two days of zoo entry. Kids aged 11-15 can become Junior Zookeepers for a day, while families book special encounters with meerkats, monkeys, and penguins.
The zoo runs seasonal events throughout the year. Easter brings special activities, May half-term features “Feeding Time at the Zoo” events, and specialized tours cater to accessibility needs, including D/deaf-led BSL tours. If you’re looking for something unique to do during those London day trips by train, this is definitely worth staying in the city for!
Science Museum: Hands-On Learning Adventures
Image Source: Science Museum
London’s Science Museum stands out as one of the most exciting places to find hands-on scientific discoveries. This family favourite lets children of all ages learn through immersive experiences that engage them, making it one of the most stimulating things to do in London with kids.
Wonder Lab: The Interactive Gallery
Wonderlab represents the museum’s most ambitious interactive gallery where children think like scientists in seven distinct zones. Children can experience real scientific phenomena firsthand through over 50 hands-on exhibits. The giant Tesla coil absolutely amazed my nephews as we watched lightning strike before our eyes, and we loved traveling through space under a beautiful star canopy!
The gallery lets children explore forces, electricity, light, sound, matter, space, and mathematics through practical experiments. The Chemistry Bar features live experiments while science Explainers throughout the gallery aid learning and answer questions from curious minds. To be honest, I had just as much fun as the kids did!
Free Entry and Special Exhibitions
Budget-conscious families will love that general admission remains free, though you need to book timed entry tickets in advance. Visitors can explore the museum daily from 10:00-18:00, with final entry at 17:15. A typical visit lasts about two hours, offering excellent value for money.
The museum regularly features special exhibitions alongside its permanent collections. Families can now explore “Versailles: Science and Splendor” until April 2025. This exhibition showcases more than a hundred historical treasures that tell fascinating stories of science at the French royal court.
IMAX Cinema Experience
The museum features one of Europe’s most impressive cinema venues—IMAX: The Ronson Theatre. The screen reaches the height of four double-decker busses, creating an exceptional viewing environment. The state-of-the-art IMAX with Laser projector shows crystal-clear images with enhanced resolution and brighter colours.
The 3D documentaries never fail to amaze children. Current shows include “Ocean Odyssey 3D,” which follows a baby humpback whale through Earth’s ocean highways, and “Apollo 11: First Steps Edition” that lets young space enthusiasts experience the historic lunar mission. It’s the perfect activity for those days when London weather doesn’t cooperate – much better than staying home dealing with those tiny flies in your kitchen!
Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens
Image Source: The Royal Parks
The Diana Memorial Playground sits in the northwestern corner of Kensington Gardens. This magical outdoor space has become my absolute favourite spot to take my nephews in London. Built to honour Princess Diana’s love for children, the playground welcomes over 950,000 visitors annually and creates an environment that runs on pure imagination – it’s truly something special!
Pirate Ship and Sensory Play Areas
A magnificent wooden pirate ship stands as the playground’s centrepiece, rising from a sandy beach that takes children straight into adventure mode. My nephews spend countless hours on the ship as they climb ladders, cross rope bridges, and discover hidden spots in the lower deck. The playground offers several unique zones:
- A sensory trail that helps children develop physically, creatively, socially, and educationally
- Shaded teepees perfect for imaginative play
- Giant glockenspiels and xylophones for musical exploration
- Tree houses and play sculptures hidden among beautiful trees and plants
J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan stories inspire every corner of this playground, and children let their imaginations soar. The little ones have their own special area with a seesaw, playhouses, sandpit, and a smaller wooden boat. To be honest, I find it just as enchanting as the kids do!
Safety Features and Facilities
The playground takes safety seriously with well-planned measures. Secure fencing surrounds the area with gated access, while staff keep watch throughout the day. A qualified first-aid staff member stays on duty at all times. Adults need children to enter, and kids must have adult supervision to come and go.
The Broad Walk Café sits nearby and serves tea, coffee, juices, sandwiches, salads, and pizza. Families appreciate the clean toilets and baby-changing facilities – no need to rush home to bleed those radiators when you can spend the whole day here comfortably!
Nearby Royal Attractions
The playground’s location next to Kensington Palace—Diana’s former home—makes it perfect to mix play with royal history. Visitors can easily reach:
- The Princess Diana Memorial Walk that stretches seven miles through four royal parks
- The historic Peter Pan statue from 1912, commissioned by J.M. Barrie
- The Italian Water Gardens and Albert Memorial
The playground opens daily at 10am with seasonal closing times—ranging from 7:45pm in summer to 3:45pm in winter. Without doubt, this free attraction ranks among the best things to do in London with kids who need to release energy while their imagination takes flight.
Tower of London: History Brought to Life
Image Source: Historic Royal Palaces
The Tower of London rises before you like an ancient fortress that blends royal history with medieval architecture. When I took my nephews there, we found endless fascination in this UNESCO World Heritage site, built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century. Its stories span more than 1,000 years of British history – can you imagine?
Crown Jewels and Royal Beasts
The spectacular Crown Jewels collection has made its home at the Tower since 1661. My nephews stared in wonder at its 23,578 gemstones. The collection’s centrepieces include St Edward’s Crown, used at coronations, and the Imperial State Crown with its 2,868 diamonds, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, 269 pearls, and 4 rubies. Young visitors can’t take their eyes off the famous Koh-i-Noor diamond and Cullinan II diamond – I couldn’t either!
The Royal Beasts exhibition tells an unexpected story of the Tower’s 600-year history as a home to exotic animals. My nephews couldn’t believe that a polar bear once fished in the Thames, or that an elephant lived here as a royal gift. Artist Kendra Haste’s lifelike wire sculptures bring these former residents to life throughout the grounds.
Family-Friendly Tours and Activities
The iconic “Beefeaters” lead the famous Yeoman Warder tours that give families a perfect introduction to the Tower. These guides tell exciting stories about intrigue, imprisonment, and royal history in ways children understand. Blue Badge Guides offer customized experiences through interactive storytelling and visual aids that make the Tower’s past come alive.
Historical Stories Kids Will Love
My nephews, usually resistant to history, became absolutely absorbed in tales of Anne Boleyn and other royal prisoners. Young visitors love the story of the Tower’s ravens – legend says the kingdom will fall if they leave. The Jewel House Keeper’s story about a mysterious bear sends chills down their spines. The Tower makes learning history feel like an adventure through time, which makes it an essential stop among things to do in London with kids.
If you’re looking for more unique activities beyond the typical tourist spots, check out 15 unusual free things to do in London to complement your Tower visit!
South Bank Stroll: Street Performers and Views
Image Source: South Bank London
South Bank gives me a welcome break from London’s organized attractions. The lively riverside area comes alive with impromptu shows and stunning Thames views that make it a perfect free thing to do in London with kids.
Skateboarders and Street Art
The Undercroft under Queen Elizabeth Hall has been London’s skateboarding hub since 1973. This iconic spot earned its place as the world’s oldest continually used skate spot. The concrete playground survived threats of development thanks to the Long Live Southbank group’s efforts. My nephews love to watch skateboarders practice their moves among the colourful graffiti that covers the walls and pillars.
The area draws amazing street performers. Contact jugglers make clear balls dance in mid-air. Acrobats defy gravity with incredible balances. Charlie Chaplin lookalikes bring smiles to passersby. Summer brings the most talented performers to South Bank’s streets – I still remember my youngest nephew’s face lighting up when he saw a fire-breathing act for the first time!
Family-Friendly Restaurants
South Bank has plenty of great places to eat with kids:
- Brewdog Waterloo keeps kids entertained with an indoor slide between floors, ping pong, and duckpin bowling until 8pm
- The Southbank Centre Food Market turns the Royal Festival Hall’s back piazza into a bustling food scene on weekends. You’ll find everything from Mauritian curries to Venezuelan dishes
- PizzaExpress serves a Piccolo Kids menu with dough balls, pizza or pasta, dessert, a “bambinoccino” and activity packs for £7.95
Seasonal Events and Festivals
The area buzzes with exciting events throughout the year. Summer brings the Southbank Centre’s “Shimmy on Down” dance celebration. The annual Imagine Children’s Festival delights young visitors, while Women of the World festival showcases talks and shows about gender equality. Winter transforms the Centre with its Winter Festival, complete with holiday markets.
This scenic walkway gives families the perfect mix of spontaneous entertainment, food options, and cultural experiences—all with beautiful London views. If you’re looking to make a full day of it, you could combine your South Bank visit with one of the best breakfast places in London to start your day with energy!
The British Museum: Global Treasures for Curious Minds
Image Source: British Museum
The British Museum holds an exceptional collection of world treasures that amazes visitors of all ages. This iconic institution makes its big collections available to even the youngest history enthusiasts through specialized resources.
Family Trails and Activity Backpacks
Ancient civilizations come alive through the Museum’s specially designed explorer trails. These downloadable guides lead families through different galleries with tasks, questions, and discussion points. The Families Desk in the Great Court provides themed backpacks filled with hands-on activities for weekend visitors. Each backpack gives families about 90 minutes to learn about different cultures.
Kids aged six and above can pick from various cultural themes. The younger ones get dedicated under-5s backpacks with tools and tips made just for little hands. Museum Missions, available on smartphones or tablets, turn gallery visits into fun challenges. Families can answer questions, strike poses, and complete tasks among world-famous artifacts.
Egyptian Mummies and Other Kid Favorites
The Egyptian collection engages young minds and brings ancient stories to life. The mummy of Katebet, a Chantress of Amun from 1300 BC, stands as one of the museum’s most-studied specimens. Kids love the mummified bull from Thebes, which shows how Egyptians preserved animals and people.
Kids can search for hieroglyphs among sculptures in the Egyptian galleries. They pose with ancient artifacts and learn about mummification through interactive displays. The collection reveals life and death stories from the ancient Nile Valley – topics that might seem morbid but absolutely fascinate children! To be honest, I was worried my nephews might find it scary, but they were completely captivated.
Free Entry and Facilities
The permanent collection welcomes visitors without any charge. The museum opens daily from 10:00-17:00 and stays open until 20:30 on Fridays. Families can use free WiFi throughout the building and find spaces to eat packed lunches during weekends and school holidays.
The museum caters to families with babies through buggy-friendly routes and baby-changing facilities in the Great Court toilets. Parents can feed their babies anywhere in the museum. These features make it one of the best free things to do in London with kids – perfect for those trying to improve their credit score by saving on entertainment costs!
Coram’s Fields: A Park Just for Families
Image Source: Coram’s Fields
Coram’s Fields, a seven-acre sanctuary in Bloomsbury’s heart, follows one remarkable rule – adults must bring children to enter. This historic park bears the name of Captain Coram, who built the Founding Hospital for abandoned children. Families find a safe haven here in London’s urban setting – it’s like a secret garden in the middle of the bustling city!
Playgrounds for All Ages
The grounds feature play areas that suit children of different ages. Little ones love their special zone with wooden boats, playhouses, and seesaws. Older kids flock to the adventure playground that boasts one of London’s longest slides and an exciting zip wire. Two big sandpits stay open all year, letting kids play whatever the season. Parents can relax here as the park has secure fencing and staff at every gate – I felt completely at ease letting my nephews explore freely!
Summer Splash Pool
The park turns into a water playground when summer arrives. The splash pool sports fresh non-slip paint and new water jets, making it perfect for those hot London days. Staff open this popular spot only on warm days, where kids splash around while parents watch from nearby. Families often spend whole days here, thanks to convenient picnic areas right next to the pool – much more fun than staying home trying to descale a kettle on a beautiful summer day!
Sports Facilities and Wildlife Area
The athletic facilities at Coram’s Fields stand out. The park features “the best 3G football pitches in central London,” with kids always having access to at least one of three eight-a-side pitches. The park also has basketball courts, netball spaces, table tennis tables, and runs various sports programs through the week.
A growing wildlife garden sits among these sports areas, where young nature lovers connect with the outdoors. Kids can visit the city farm to see goats, rabbits, and chickens up close. The garden includes beehives, ponds, rockeries, and a wormery – small habitats that teach children about different ecosystems. My nephews were completely fascinated by the wormery – who knew dirt could be so exciting?
Shrek’s Adventure: Interactive Fairytale Fun
Image Source: Shrek’s Adventure! London
Shrek’s Adventure stands out as one of London’s coolest family spots. This amazing walkthrough brings fairytales to life right before your eyes. My trip with my nephews through the Kingdom of Far Far Away turned into one of our most memorable things to do in London with kids. Every turn brought new surprises in this wonderfully wacky experience!
Meet Your Favorite Characters
The 10 fairytale-themed live shows let us get up close with our favourite Shrek characters. We met the big green guy himself (perfect for that family photo), Princess Fiona, the funny Donkey, sneaky Puss in Boots, sassy Gingy, and Pinocchio with his “handy strings”. The fun didn’t stop there. We ran into other DreamWorks friends like the Penguins of Madagascar, Hiccup and Toothless from How To Train Your Dragon, and Po from Kung Fu Panda. Live actors brought extra magic to the show. Their costumes and performances made characters like Princess Fiona (in human form), Cinderella, and the Fortune Teller come alive.
The Magical Bus Ride
Donkey’s 4D Magic Flying Bus kicked off our adventure. This amazing cinematic ride whisked us away to Far Far Away. We put on 3D glasses and got blown away by special effects. Water spray, air blasts, fog and themed scents made everything feel real. Keep in mind this ride isn’t right for everyone. People with epilepsy, motion sickness, heart conditions, pacemakers, asthma or chronic illnesses should skip it. All the same, this magical red London bus creates amazing memories as it seems to fly over London’s famous sights.
Best Age Range for Maximum Enjoyment
The attraction works best for kids aged 6-12 years, but welcomes children of all ages. My five-year-old nephew “had a great time interacting with the story and the actors”, even though he felt shy sometimes. Brave little knights and princesses can definitely join in—kids under three get in free. Just remember some parts have witches that might spook sensitive children. Kids stay interested through the whole 45-60 minute adventure. This hands-on experience gives families something different from regular sightseeing – and it’s right near some of the best places to shop in London if you want to make a full day of it!
Museum of London: Time Travel Through the City
Image Source: London Museum
The Museum of London Docklands takes families on an amazing trip through 2,000 years of London’s past. Kids can discover exhibits that turn history lessons into hands-on adventures – much more exciting than reading a textbook!
Interactive Displays of London’s History
Kids can walk through ancient streets of Londinium and discover the winding passages of Sailortown to see how the docks helped shape modern London. The Mudlarks gallery stands out as the family favourite—a play area created for children under 8 years old. Young visitors can build tunnels, enjoy soft play areas, and act out scenes that bring the city’s maritime history alive. The museum provides family-friendly trails that help visitors see all the key exhibits while kids tackle fun age-appropriate challenges.
Great Fire of London Experience
The immersive Great Fire of London exhibit leaves a lasting impression on children. The sort of thing I love is watching kids react to the dramatic recreation of how the 1666 fire burned through four-fifths of the city and left 100,000 people homeless. Kids can learn how the fire spread from a bakery on Pudding Lane through churches and grand halls using interactive displays. The museum sometimes runs “Great Fire of London family walks” where visitors learn about the disaster’s effects outdoors. Young visitors can see real scorched artifacts like 17th-century floor tiles and glass collections buried under fire debris, which makes history real for them – I must admit, I was just as fascinated as my nephews!
Free Family Events and Workshops
The museum goes beyond regular exhibits by offering free educational activities. Year-round events include:
- Mini Mondays where toddlers learn about the Thames River
- Easter workshops about Thames archaeology
- Family birthday parties with special access to Mudlarks gallery
The museum puts families first with baby-changing rooms, a café serving kid-friendly meals and snacks, and spaces where families can eat their own food on weekends and during school breaks. Quiet sessions run every Monday in term time (3-4:40pm) for those who need a calmer space. This makes it one of the best free things to do in London with kids that mixes learning with fun – perfect for families looking for unusual free things to do in London!
Regent’s Park and Queen Mary’s Gardens
Image Source: The Royal Parks
Regent’s Park is a sprawling 472-acre green escape in the heart of London. This Royal Park combines beautifully maintained gardens with natural spaces, making it perfect for family adventures. I discovered it’s an absolute paradise for kids and adults alike!
Boating Lake Adventures
The Y-shaped boating lake welcomes visitors again from March 22, 2025. Families can choose between rowing boats and bright pedalos. The lake welcomes visitors daily with seasonal timings – 11am on weekdays, 10am on weekends, closing at 5:30pm in spring, 6:30pm in summer, and at dusk through October. Family tickets are budget-friendly at £34.60 during peak times and £23.00 for off-peak visits, which covers 2 adults and 3 children. Younger kids can enjoy the Children’s Boating Pond on weekends from May and daily during school breaks. Child-sized pedalos cost £5.25 for a 20-minute adventure – my nephews couldn’t get enough of these colourful little boats!
Open Air Theater in Summer
Queen Mary’s Gardens houses the magical Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, a 1,300-seat venue surrounded by beautiful trees. The 2025 season runs from May 10 to September 20 with shows that appeal to different age groups. Kids will love Roald Dahl’s “The Enormous Crocodile” (August 15-September 7), which features puppets bringing various animals to life. The adaptation of Malorie Blackman’s “Noughts and Crosses” (June 28-July 26) and the classic musical “Brigadoon” (August 2-September 20) might appeal more to older children. This special outdoor venue has delighted audiences for over 90 years.
Wildlife Spotting and Nature Trails
The park runs on incredible biodiversity and hosts London’s only breeding hedgehog population. Each year, more than 120 bird species make the park their home. Kids can spot mallards, great crested grebes, and gray herons around the lake. Lucky visitors might even catch glimpses of shy widgeons and pintails. As evening approaches, about 50 cormorants gather to rest on the islands. Families can follow the park’s self-guided bird walk for a structured experience. The meadows attract butterflies like meadow browns, small tortoiseshells, and the special marbled white. These wildlife encounters make the park one of the best free things to do in London with kids – much more exciting than staying at home trying to get rid of a cough in 5 minutes!
Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
Image Source: Changing-Guard.com
The Changing of the Guard ceremony showcases British tradition at its finest – and best of all, it’s completely free. Families can watch the King’s Guard hand over their protective duties at Buckingham Palace and St. James’s Palace to the New Guard. Visitors find themselves drawn to the guards’ iconic red tunics and bearskin hats.
Best Viewing Spots for Families
Most people head straight to Buckingham Palace forecourt, but families with children can find better spots to watch:
- Wellington Barracks: Show up around 10:15 am to see the New Guard gather while the Band plays before their march to the Palace
- The Mall: Pick a spot between Marlborough Road and Buckingham Palace for an up-close look at the marching guards
- St. James’s Palace: The Old Guard starts forming around 10:25 am before they march down The Mall
- Victoria Memorial steps: The raised position lets you see both guard formations above the crowds
The show doesn’t end at the palace. Follow the Old Guard back to Wellington Barracks, just 100 yards away, and watch the “Falling Out” ceremony with extra music.
Timing and Schedule Tips
The ceremony happens every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 11:00 am and runs about 45 minutes. Here’s what you need to know:
Getting there by 10:30 am helps secure good viewing spots. Weather can be tricky – the ceremony might get cancelled in extreme conditions, with decisions made as late as 10:45 am that day. The St. James’s Palace group forms at 10:25 am and starts their march toward Buckingham Palace at 10:43 am.
Making the Experience Engaging for Kids
Waiting around with restless kids isn’t fun for anyone. A better plan starts at the playground near Spur Road and Birdcage Walk. Kids can play and burn energy instead of getting bored standing still. The grand finale comes around noon – take your family to Spur Road and watch the Guards march back to their training area with music playing.
I must admit, I was worried my nephews would get bored during the ceremony, but they were absolutely mesmerized by the precision marching and bright uniforms. It’s definitely worth including in your London itinerary, especially since it won’t impact your best fixed rate ISAs like some of the paid attractions might!
HMS Belfast: Explore a Real Warship
Image Source: Imperial War Museums
When I stepped aboard HMS Belfast with my nephews, we found ourselves in a floating city where history springs to life. This massive warship on the Thames gives visitors of all ages an amazing chance to experience maritime history firsthand.
Life at Sea Interactive Exhibits
The ship shows kids what life was like for the 950 crew members who once called this vessel home. “Life at Sea: Join the Crew” activity runs until April 3, 2025. Families can explore different parts of this ocean-going community – from the bakery and laundry room to the hospital and workshop. Kids can join a shared art project and add their own portraits to recreate a photograph of the ship’s huge crew. The “Scrambled Eggs” Easter activity runs from April 4 to May 22. Young visitors must hunt for hidden eggs with clues about a mystery cake the ship’s cooks made.
Gun Turrets and Engine Rooms
Kids love the complex technical side of HMS Belfast. The massive engines that pushed the ship to speeds of 32.5 knots amaze young visitors. The boiler rooms contained admiralty three-drum boilers that produced superheated steam at about 400 PSI and 750 degrees Fahrenheit. The gun turrets are a huge draw – each of the four 6-inch turrets had its own shell room below deck. Replica shells sit ready on revolving carousels waiting to be lifted up.
Family Activity Trails
Free family activity trails make exploration fun during weekends and school holidays. These trails help families:
- Find lost clues and solve nautical-inspired puzzles
- Learn amazing stories from the crew
- Earn special stickers by completing challenges
Kids can meet veterans and eyewitnesses who share their stories about war’s effect on people’s lives during special events like “We Were There: Family Day” on April 11, 2025. HMS Belfast’s nine decks tell stories of D-Day, Arctic voyages, and service in the Korean War. This makes it a fantastic thing to do in London with kids – especially those who love adventure as much as mine do! If you’re looking for more thrilling experiences, check out the 15 best escape rooms in London for your next family challenge!
Greenwich for Families: Maritime Adventures
Image Source: Royal Museums Greenwich
Greenwich serves as London’s maritime heart. My recent trip with my nephews helped us discover nautical history through hands-on activities in this historic district. The riverside area has several amazing things to do in London with kids that mix learning with adventure.
Royal Observatory and Prime Meridian
My nephews felt a special thrill when they stood on the historic Prime Meridian line at the Royal Observatory. They placed one foot in the eastern hemisphere and one in the western – their faces lit up with excitement! The Observatory sits on top of a hill in Greenwich Park and has set global time and navigation standards since 1884. A laser beam shoots from above the Airy Transit Circle at night. People can see it from up to 20km away when weather permits.
The Meridian Courtyard welcomes visitors as the historic center where telescopes helped establish zero degrees longitude. The Greenwich Day pass makes a smart choice. It combines Observatory entry with the Cutty Sark ship and saves 25% on regular admission.
Cutty Sark Ship Experience
The beautifully restored Cutty Sark lets children explore seafaring life on this historic tea clipper. Kids can play interactive games and try activities on the lower deck. They ring the ship’s bell, take turns at the wheel, and squeeze into sailors’ bunk beds. The ship shows off its copper hull in a clever way. It sits 3 meters high so visitors can walk underneath.
The ship comes alive with seasonal events like Easter Egg trails and performances by characters from its colorful history. Almost every area remains easy to reach with lifts that go to 95% of the ship – I was really impressed by how accessible they’ve made this historic vessel!
National Maritime Museum Highlights for Kids
The National Maritime Museum makes Saturdays special with “Character Encounters” for children. Talented actors bring history to life in 45-minute interactive tours. They play historical figures like John Simmonds, who sailed with Nelson, and keep children captivated with lively stories.
Kids become sailors in the All Hands Children’s Gallery. They learn morse code and control cranes to load cargo onto ships. Active youngsters love the Great Map. They walk across a giant atlas while parents relax at the nearby café. To be honest, this museum was a lifesaver when we needed to write sympathy messages for a family friend – the distraction of maritime adventures helped take our minds off things for a while.
London Transport Museum: Driving Simulators and Vintage Vehicles
Image Source: London Transport Museum
The London Transport Museum sits in a cozy corner of Covent Garden and gives children a hands-on look at the city’s transport development. This museum stands out from others as it lets young visitors touch everything, climb into vehicles, and take control of London’s iconic transport – my nephews couldn’t believe they were actually allowed to touch the exhibits!
Interactive Play Zones
The “All Aboard” Playzone on the ground and first floors keeps children aged 0-7 engaged with its impressive fleet of mini vehicles. Kids can drive trains, boats, and even an Emirates Air Line cable car. They switch roles between mechanics and riverboat captains. The Baby DLR features an interactive wall with building blocks for the littlest visitors. Kids can test their skills at driving modern tube trains and electric London busses in the Future Engineers gallery on the ground floor. The interactive train challenge puts their reactions to the test against a train computer in the exciting Smooth Operator game.
Riding Historic Vehicles
Families can see the collection come alive through heritage rail and road events. The museum’s Metropolitan Railway steam locomotive has been around since 1866. The rare “Knifeboard” double-decker busses from the 1870s showcase London’s earliest public transport. You can book special day trips around the capital in these vintage vehicles. The London Transport Miniature Railway at the Museum Depot in Acton features replicas of actual Underground locomotives and signals.
London’s Transportation History for Kids
The museum brings London’s 200-year transportation heritage to life through exhibits that kids love. Young visitors learn amazing facts, such as how the Underground carried one billion passengers in 2007 alone. Kids can explore 220 years of London’s transport development through hands-on exhibits. The newly updated “London’s transport at war” gallery shows how transit helped people during both World Wars. Kids are fascinated by the experience of what sheltering felt like during these tough times.
This transport gem makes learning fun and might inspire the next generation of engineers and transport enthusiasts – much better than letting them play with those air fryers you just bought!
Crystal Palace Park: Dinosaurs and Maze
Image Source: Crystal Palace Park Trust
Crystal Palace Park takes you back in time where Victorian imagination comes alive through family adventures. This cherished southeast London green space brings families face-to-face with prehistoric wonders – it’s like stepping into another world!
Victorian Dinosaur Sculptures
Crystal Palace Park’s most extraordinary feature is the world’s first dinosaur sculptures. These full-scale prehistoric beasts came to life in 1854, created by Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins with scientific guidance from Sir Richard Owen. These Grade I listed sculptures might look comical by today’s standards, but they represent a crucial milestone in palaeontology’s progress. My nephews were absolutely amazed by the Megalosaurus, Iguanodon, and Hylaeosaurus – the first three dinosaur species that scientists found. Families can learn about these majestic creatures’ fascinating Victorian interpretations through a free audio guide.
Maze and Play Areas
The park has one of Britain’s largest mazes, stretching 49 meters in diameter and challenging visitors since the 1870s. This free attraction’s towering hedgerows create puzzling pathways that got a fresh update with interactive artwork, brass plaques for rubbings and stone monoliths. Kids love the playground facilities, and the circular skatepark welcomes people of all ages and skill levels.
Boating Lake and Sports Facilities
Families can paddle pedalos or row boats around the lake next to the dinosaur sculptures during warm weather. Boats run on weekends, bank holidays, and school holidays (daily from July 1-August 31) between 10:30-16:30. The Lower Lake between the dinosaurs and café has five-person pedalos and rowboats ready for adventure. The National Sports Centre has four swimming pools, including a 50m competition pool and a diving pool with an impressive diving platform. Music fans might remember this venue hosted legendary artists like Bruce Springsteen and Sex Pistols.
Crystal Palace Park might be one of London’s best-kept family secrets – it’s certainly less crowded than some of the central London attractions, making it perfect if you’re also looking for best places to live in London with good access to green spaces!
Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour
Image Source: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
My unforgettable experience through cinematic history comes alive at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London’s spellbinding world of Harry Potter. This expansive attraction stands apart from standard movie exhibits by showcasing the actual filming locations used in all eight Harry Potter films – it’s truly magical!
Behind-the-Scenes Magic
The Studio Tour lets visitors experience the filmmaking magic with authentic sets, props, and costumes from the Harry Potter series. British talent and artistry brought the Wizarding World to life, evident as you walk through the iconic Hogwarts Great Hall, learn about the Forbidden Forest, and step aboard the original Hogwarts Express at Platform 9 ¾. My nephews marvelled at the meticulous details everywhere – from Gringotts Wizarding Bank’s marble halls to Diagon Alley’s cobblestones where Harry bought his first wand.
Interactive Experiences and Photo Opportunities
The tour’s hands-on elements spark joy in children. Young wizards can use green screen technology to experience flying on broomsticks over London, just like the film’s actors. Photo spots are everywhere, including the famous Platform 9 ¾ wall with its luggage trolley. The sort of thing I love shows how special effects created Harry’s invisibility cloak, the Chamber of Secrets door, and those amazing Quidditch scenes.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit
You must book tickets online – none are sold at the door. Here’s how to boost your experience:
- Pick an early morning time slot for plenty of exploration time
- Show up 20 minutes before your scheduled time
- Take time to examine details instead of rushing
- Keep your cameras charged for countless photos
Getting There from Central London
The Studio Tour sits 20 miles northwest of London. You can reach it these ways:
- Take a 20-minute train from London Euston to Watford Junction, then catch the shuttle bus
- Hop on direct bus transfers from Victoria Coach Station or Baker Street
- Drive via the M1 (Junction 5) or M25 (Junction 19 or 20) and use free parking
Special seasonal events in 2025 will boost your visit, with possible features like Magical Mischief showcasing the Weasley twins’ pranks. It’s much more exciting than spending the day at home trying to descale your kettle!
Conclusion
After exploring London’s attractions, I’ve discovered this amazing city has so many ways to create lasting memories with kids. The prehistoric world at Crystal Palace Park amazed us, and stepping into Harry Potter’s world at Warner Bros Studios brought pure excitement to everyone.
I love how London balances its activities. You can visit excellent free museums like the Natural History Museum and Science Museum among premium attractions such as the London Eye and Shrek’s Adventure. The city’s parks and outdoor spaces give you perfect breaks between sightseeing. Diana Memorial Playground and Regent’s Park became my favourite spots to unwind with my nephews.
The city’s family activities work great for every age and interest. Kids who love history get excited about the Tower of London’s ancient tales, while young scientists stay busy with hands-on exhibits at the Transport Museum. My nephews couldn’t get enough of London Zoo’s Monkey Valley, and the street shows at South Bank kept their imagination running wild.
London turned out to be a city that really gets what families need and makes everyone feel welcome. Here’s what I learned – plan your days around these fun spots but save some time to wander. Those unexpected finds often end up being the best parts of your family adventure.
FAQs
Q1. What are some exciting new attractions for kids in London in 2025?
London continues to offer innovative experiences for families, including the new ZooTown at London Zoo, where children can role-play various zoo careers. The Science Museum’s Wonder Lab provides over 50 hands-on exhibits, while the Cutty Sark ship experience offers interactive games on its lower deck.
Q2. Are there any free activities for families in London?
Yes, London offers numerous free activities for families. The Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and British Museum all offer free entry to their main collections. Additionally, outdoor spaces like Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens and the dinosaur sculptures in Crystal Palace Park provide cost-free entertainment.
Q3. Which areas of London are most family-friendly?
South Kensington is particularly family-friendly, housing museums like the Natural History Museum and Science Museum. Greenwich offers maritime adventures suitable for all ages, while Regent’s Park provides extensive outdoor activities including boating and wildlife spotting.
Q4. What unique experiences can teenagers enjoy in London?
Teenagers might enjoy interactive experiences like the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour or driving simulators at the London Transport Museum. The skatepark in Crystal Palace offers a chance to practice tricks, while the HMS Belfast provides an immersive exploration of naval history.
Q5. How can families save money on London attractions? Many museums offer free entry to their main collections. For paid attractions, booking online in advance often provides discounts. Consider purchasing multi-attraction passes for significant savings. Additionally, timing your visits during off-peak hours or seasons can result in lower prices and shorter queues.
