London with Kids: Museums, Parks, Landmarks, and Fun Entertainment for Families

London is a great destination for families, with plenty of fun and educational activities for kids of all ages. Whether you’re looking for museums, parks, landmarks, or entertainment, you’ll find something to suit your family’s interests and budget in London. Here are some of the best things to do in London with families, as well as some tips on how to make the most of your visit.

Museums

London has some of the world’s most famous and fascinating museums, and many of them are free to enter. You can explore natural history, science, art, culture, and more at these family-friendly attractions in London.

• The Natural History Museum is a must-see for any animal lover, with exhibits on dinosaurs, mammals, insects, fossils, and more. You can also enjoy interactive displays, live shows, and special events throughout the year.
• The Science Museum is another popular choice for families, with hands-on exhibits on space, technology, engineering, medicine, and more. You can also watch IMAX films, visit the Wonderlab gallery, and experience a flight simulator.
• The British Museum is a treasure trove of history and culture, with artefacts from ancient civilizations, such as the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, and the Egyptian mummies. You can also join free family trails, workshops, and activities.
• The Victoria and Albert Museum is a showcase of art and design, with collections ranging from fashion and textiles to ceramics and jewellery. You can also visit the Museum of Childhood, which has toys, games, dolls, and costumes from different eras.

Parks

London has many beautiful green spaces where you can relax, play, picnic, or enjoy nature. Some of the best parks for families include:

• Hyde Park is one of the largest and most famous parks in London, with attractions such as the Serpentine lake, where you can rent a boat or swim; the Diana Memorial Playground, which has a pirate ship and a sensory trail; and the Speakers’ Corner, where you can listen to or join in lively debates.
• Regent’s Park is another royal park that has plenty to offer families, such as the London Zoo, which has over 750 species of animals; the Open Air Theatre, which stages shows and musicals in summer; and the Queen Mary’s Gardens, which has over 12,000 roses.
• Hampstead Heath is a wild and scenic park that has stunning views of the city from Parliament Hill. You can also swim in one of the ponds or lidos; visit Kenwood House, which has art collections and a café; or explore the woodland trails and meadows.

Landmarks

London has some of the most iconic landmarks in the world, and many of them are fun and educational for families. You can see them from different perspectives by taking a bus tour, a river cruise, or a walking tour. Some of the landmarks you shouldn’t miss include:

• The Tower of London is a historic fortress that has been a palace, a prison, a zoo, and more. You can see the Crown Jewels, meet the Beefeaters (the guards), watch the Ceremony of the Keys (the locking up of the tower), and learn about its bloody history.
• The London Eye is a giant observation wheel that offers panoramic views of the city from 135 metres high. You can also enjoy 4D cinema experiences, themed capsules (such as chocolate or champagne), and special events (such as Halloween or New Year’s Eve).
• The Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the Queen and one of the most famous buildings in London. You can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony (usually at 11 am), visit the State Rooms (only open in summer), or explore the gardens.

Entertainment

London has a vibrant and diverse entertainment scene that caters to all tastes and ages. You can enjoy musicals, plays, comedy shows, concerts, festivals, and more at these family-friendly attractions in London.

• The West End is the theatre district of London, where you can see some of the best shows in the world. You can choose from classics (such as The Lion King or Matilda), new hits (such as Harry Potter or Hamilton), or family favourites (such as Wicked or Aladdin).
• The South Bank is a cultural hub that has venues such as the National Theatre (which has plays for children and families), the Royal Festival Hall (which has concerts and events), and the BFI IMAX (which has the largest cinema screen in the UK).
• The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is a must for any fan of the wizarding world. You can see the sets, props, costumes, and special effects that were used in the films, as well as try some butterbeer, ride a broomstick, and shop for souvenirs.

Tips for visiting London with families

• Plan ahead and book tickets online to save time and money. You can also use apps and websites to check opening times, directions, and reviews of the attractions you want to visit.
• Use public transport to get around the city, as it is cheaper and faster than driving or taking a taxi. You can use an Oyster card or a contactless card to pay for buses, trains, tubes, and trams. You can also rent a bike or walk to explore the city at your own pace.
• Take advantage of free or discounted entry to many attractions with a London Pass or a Kids Pass. You can also find deals and offers on websites such as Groupon or Time Out.
• Pack light and bring essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, hats, umbrellas, and chargers. You can also use lockers or luggage storage facilities to store your belongings while you visit the attractions.

Have fun and enjoy your time in London with your family!