The best things to do in London with kids range from free dinosaur galleries and royal ceremonies to river cruises and pirate-ship playgrounds, so toddlers, school-age children and teenagers all find something worth the journey. London works well for families because its biggest attractions cluster in a few walkable areas, many top museums charge nothing for general entry, and children under 11 travel free on most public transport when accompanied by a fare-paying adult. If you are also building a broader sightseeing list, start with our guide to the best things to do in London for first-time visitors.
This guide covers free attractions, interactive museums, outdoor activities and rainy-day options, with the practical details parents actually need: where each place is, which ages enjoy it, how long to allow, what tickets involve and how to get there.
What Are the Best Things to Do in London With Kids?
The best things to do in London with kids are the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, the London Eye, the Tower of London, the Diana Memorial Playground, London Zoo and a Thames river cruise. Pair free South Kensington museums with Hyde Park, then add one paid highlight per day so children stay energetic and the budget stays manageable.
15 Best Things to Do in London With Kids
1. Explore the Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum on Cromwell Road in South Kensington is the easiest big win for children of almost any age. Hintze Hall greets families with the blue whale skeleton known as Hope, and the dinosaur galleries are the main draw for school-age kids. General admission is free, though booking a timed slot is sensible at busy times, as Visit London explains. Allow about three hours, take the pedestrian tunnel from South Kensington station, and arrive early on a weekday to dodge the longest queues.
2. See London From the London Eye
The London Eye stands on the South Bank beside County Hall, about a five-minute walk from Waterloo station. One rotation takes roughly 30 minutes, which suits children from around four upwards who can enjoy the skyline without getting restless. Very young children are free but still need a reserved ticket, and the age cut-off varies, so check when you book. Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult. Book a timed slot online and arrive about 30 minutes early.
3. Visit the Tower of London
The Tower of London suits curious children aged six and over, with the Crown Jewels, armour and ravens keeping stories vivid. Children under five go free without a ticket, and ages five to 15 pay a child fare, according to the official ticket page. Plan at least three hours, join the included Yeoman Warder tour early in the day and travel to Tower Hill station. Visit the Crown Jewels first, before queues build.
4. Discover Science at the Science Museum
The Science Museum on Exhibition Road is a few minutes’ walk from the Natural History Museum, which makes South Kensington a natural full-day base. General admission is free, with a free timed ticket requested in advance, while the hands-on Wonderlab gallery carries a separate charge and suits older children, as Lonely Planet notes. Allow two to three hours and use South Kensington station. Choose two or three galleries rather than trying to see everything.
5. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
The Changing of the Guard is free, takes about 45 minutes and works best for children who like marching bands and uniforms. It does not run daily the King’s Guard change is scheduled for Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 11am, and the Household Division calendar is the place to confirm dates. Use Green Park, St James’s Park or Westminster stations, arrive well before 11am for a railing spot, and keep bags zipped in the crowd.
6. Meet Animals at ZSL London Zoo
ZSL London Zoo sits at the northern edge of Regent’s Park and suits ages two to twelve, with enough variety to hold toddlers and older children alike. It is a ticketed attraction, so book online for your chosen day and check current child pricing on the zoo’s own site. Allow three to four hours, reach it on foot from Camden Town or Regent’s Park stations, and time feeding sessions first, then wander the rest.
7. Explore the Diana Memorial Playground
The Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens is one of the capital’s best free play spaces for children up to about 12. It reopened after a £3 million renewal that added a new play galleon, according to The Royal Parks. Entry is free, but adults are admitted only when accompanied by a child. Use Queensway or Lancaster Gate stations, allow two hours and visit on weekday mornings when it is quieter.
8. Take a Thames River Cruise
A Thames river cruise lets tired legs rest while the sights come to you, which is why it works so well for toddlers and grandparents. Sightseeing boats leave from piers near Westminster, the London Eye and the Tower of London, and child fares differ by operator. Choose a shorter route for younger children, sit near a window or the open deck on dry days, and pack snacks, since onboard options are limited.
9. Walk Across Tower Bridge
Crossing Tower Bridge on foot is free, and the paid Tower Bridge Exhibition adds glass-floored high-level walkways and the Victorian engine rooms, which children aged five and over tend to love. Under-fives enter free, though a ticket is still needed. Allow one to one and a half hours, travel via Tower Hill or London Bridge stations, and pair it with the Tower of London next door to save travel time.
10. Visit the SEA LIFE London Aquarium
The SEA LIFE London Aquarium at County Hall is an indoor choice for ages two and up, with sharks, rays and rockpool displays that younger children can reach and touch. Allow about two hours, book a timed slot online and use Waterloo or Westminster stations. It sits right beside the London Eye, so many families combine the two on one South Bank morning and keep the afternoon free for a riverside walk.
11. Explore the Transport Museum in Covent Garden
The London Transport Museum on Covent Garden Piazza lets children climb aboard historic buses, trams and trains. Under-18s enter free, and an adult ticket stays valid for 12 months, according to the museum’s family page. Allow two to three hours, travel via Covent Garden station and make use of the café and baby-changing facilities. A dedicated play area makes it especially good for under-sevens.
12. Enjoy Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens
Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens form a huge free green space where children can run, feed ducks and picnic. In warmer months you can hire rowing boats on the Serpentine, and the Diana Memorial Fountain is a gentle paddling spot in dry weather. Entry is free, and every age enjoys it. Reach it via Hyde Park Corner, Lancaster Gate or Queensway stations, and pick up picnic food before you arrive.
13. Discover Ancient History at the British Museum
The British Museum in Bloomsbury has free general admission and is best for children aged six and over who enjoy Egyptian mummies, the Rosetta Stone and ancient Greece. Note that the dinosaur galleries are at the Natural History Museum, not here. Allow two hours, use Tottenham Court Road, Holborn or Russell Square stations and choose two or three galleries in advance so the visit stays fun rather than tiring.
14. Experience the Magic of Harry Potter
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is in Leavesden near Watford, about 20 miles north-west of central London, so it is a half-day or full-day trip rather than a quick stop. Trains run from Euston to Watford Junction, followed by a studio shuttle bus, as Visit London outlines. It suits ages six and over, and tickets should be booked well ahead. For a free in-city nod, the Platform 9¾ photo spot at King’s Cross is far quicker.
15. Enjoy Street Performers and Family Entertainment in Covent Garden
Covent Garden Piazza is a lively, free stop where street performers entertain crowds, and all ages enjoy it. Performances are informal and times vary, so there is no ticket to book. Allow about an hour, travel via Covent Garden station and hold toddlers’ hands close on busy weekend afternoons. The nearby London Transport Museum makes this a natural pairing for a central family morning.
Free Things to Do in London With Kids
London rewards families who plan around free attractions, and our full guide to free things to do in London goes much deeper than this summary.
1. Visit London’s Free Museums
The Natural History Museum, Science Museum, British Museum and V&A all offer free general admission, with only special exhibitions and some galleries charging. Lonely Planet’s roundup of free museums and galleries in London is a handy planning aid for choosing between them.
2. Play in London’s Best Family Parks
Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and Regent’s Park all have playgrounds, lawns and cafés. The Diana Memorial Playground is the standout for children up to about 12.
3. Watch Street Performers in Covent Garden
The Piazza provides free, unscripted entertainment, ideal for a short break between museums.
4. Explore South Bank and Its Riverside Views
The riverside path from the London Eye towards Tower Bridge is flat, stroller-friendly and lined with street food, skate spots and river views.
5. See Buckingham Palace and Royal Landmarks From Outside
Seeing the palace gates, the Mall and the Changing of the Guard costs nothing. Visit London’s ceremony guide confirms no tickets are needed to watch.
Best Indoor Activities for Kids in London
1. Interactive Exhibits at the Science Museum
Hands-on galleries keep curious children busy for hours, and free general admission makes it low risk on a wet day.
2. Discover Marine Life at SEA LIFE London Aquarium
A fully indoor, timed-entry visit that works well for ages two and up.
3. Explore the Natural History Museum
Dinosaurs, the blue whale skeleton and earthquake displays offer enough variety for a whole wet afternoon.
4. Visit the London Transport Museum
Buses, trams and simulators make this one of the best indoor choices for under-sevens.
5. Find Family-Friendly Shows and Indoor Entertainment
West End theatres stage children’s shows and family musicals. Check each production’s age guidance before booking, since many shows set minimum ages.
Outdoor Activities for Families in London
1. Have a Picnic in Hyde Park
Spread a blanket near the Serpentine, let children burn off energy and add a rowing boat on warm days.
2. Explore Regent’s Park and Its Playgrounds
Regent’s Park combines open lawns, playgrounds and a boating lake, and it links neatly to London Zoo.
3. Feed Your Curiosity at London Zoo
Plan the zoo as a half-day outdoor anchor and enjoy the park walk on either side.
4. Enjoy a Family Walk Along the Thames
A flat South Bank stroll between Westminster and Tower Bridge works for strollers and scooters alike.
5. Explore Greenwich Park and Its Views
Greenwich Park offers a steep but short climb to a famous skyline view, plus the Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian line, which children enjoy standing across.
Best Things to Do in London With Toddlers
Toddlers do best with short, flexible outings built around nap times.
- Toddler-friendly playgrounds: the Diana Memorial Playground and Regent’s Park playgrounds offer safe, enclosed play.
- Stroller-friendly parks and gardens: Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens have wide, flat paths.
- Interactive museums with suitable facilities: the London Transport Museum has baby-changing and a play area for the youngest.
- Short river cruises and relaxed sightseeing: a 30-minute boat trip beats a long walking day.
- Places with toilets, baby-changing facilities and cafés: major museums and the playground all have them, so plan stops around them.
Best Things to Do in London With Older Kids and Teenagers
Older children want action, stories and a bit of independence.
- Harry Potter experiences: the Studio Tour in Leavesden is the big one for fans.
- London Eye and Tower Bridge: skyline views and glass floors suit adventurous teens.
- Science and technology attractions: Wonderlab at the Science Museum is aimed at older children.
- Football stadium tours: several London clubs run behind-the-scenes tours, so check each club’s site for dates.
- Street food markets and interactive experiences: a market lunch makes a relaxed break between sights.
For something off the standard route, our list of unique things to do in London suits teenagers who have already seen the big landmarks.
Things to Do in London With Kids When It Rains
1. Visit Free Museums
The Natural History Museum, Science Museum and British Museum can easily fill a rainy day without costing anything for entry.
2. Explore Indoor Aquariums
SEA LIFE London Aquarium is fully indoors and sits beside the London Eye, so a clearing sky gives you a backup plan.
3. Take a Family-Friendly Museum Trail
Many museums publish children’s trails and activity sheets. Ask at the information desk on arrival.
4. Watch a Suitable West End Show
A matinee performance is a dry two-hour break. Check the age guidance first.
5. Enjoy Indoor Activities Near Central London
The London Transport Museum, Covent Garden and the nearby shops and cafés keep a wet afternoon within a short walk.
Best Places to Visit in London With Kids by Area
Grouping attractions by area cuts Tube time, and our broader guide to places to visit in London helps you place each neighbourhood on the map.
1. Westminster and South Bank
Combine Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, SEA LIFE London Aquarium and a riverside walk.
2. South Kensington
The Natural History Museum, Science Museum, Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens sit within a short walk of each other.
3. Covent Garden and Leicester Square
Pair the London Transport Museum with street performers and West End matinees.
4. Greenwich
Greenwich Park, the Royal Observatory and the riverside suit a slower, outdoor-focused day.
5. Regent’s Park and Camden
Combine London Zoo with park playgrounds and Camden’s markets for older children.
How to Plan a Family Day Out in London
Not sure how long to stay? Our trip duratin calculator helps you match days to your family’s pace before you book.
1. One-Day London Itinerary With Kids
- Morning: Natural History Museum.
- Lunch: a café in South Kensington.
- Afternoon: Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens.
- Evening: a relaxed family dinner nearby. For later evenings, see our ideas for things to do in London at night.
2. Two-Day London Itinerary With Kids
- Day 1: Westminster, the London Eye and South Bank.
- Day 2: South Kensington museums and Hyde Park.
3. Three-Day London Itinerary With Kids
- Day 1: central London landmarks.
- Day 2: museums and parks.
- Day 3: Tower Bridge, the Tower of London and a Thames cruise.
Practical Tips for Visiting London With Kids
1. How to Use the London Underground With Children
TfL allows up to four children under 11 to travel free with a fare-paying adult, while ages 11 to 15 need the right photocard or discount for child fares. Avoid rush hour with strollers, and check step-free access on the TfL map. For wider arrival and transport basics, read our London tourist information guide.
2. Choosing a Family-Friendly Hotel Location
Stay near a Tube line that reaches your top attractions. South Kensington suits museum-heavy trips, while the South Bank works for river sights and Covent Garden for central access.
3. Finding Child-Friendly Restaurants and Toilets
Major museums, the Diana Memorial Playground and the London Transport Museum all have cafés and baby-changing facilities. Plan lunch around them rather than hunting for a table with hungry children.
4. Booking Attraction Tickets in Advance
Timed-entry tickets are common at the London Eye, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, SEA LIFE and the Studio Tour. Book the paid highlights first, then fill gaps with free attractions. Our London travel tips cover more booking and money advice.
5. Planning Around Nap Times and Rest Breaks
Book one main activity per morning, keep afternoons flexible and schedule a park or playground break between attractions.
6. What to Pack for London’s Changing Weather
Pack layers, a light waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, a refillable bottle and snacks. Weather can shift within hours, even in summer.
Is London Worth Visiting With Kids?
Yes. London suits different ages and interests because the same trip can include dinosaur skeletons, royal ceremonies, river views and large parks. Free museums, free transport for younger children and flexible entertainment help control costs.
The challenges are real: crowds at major landmarks, long walking distances between sights and attraction costs that add up quickly for paid highlights. For reassurance about travelling with children, read our practical guide on whether London is safe.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in London With Kids
What are the best things to do in London with kids?
The Natural History Museum, Science Museum, London Eye, Tower of London, Diana Memorial Playground and London Zoo are the family favourites. Mix free museums and parks with one paid attraction each day, and adjust choices to your children’s ages and attention spans.
Is London a good destination for families?
Yes. London offers free museums, large parks, easy public transport and attractions for every age, from toddlers to teenagers. Attractions cluster in a handful of areas, so with sensible planning families spend more time enjoying places and less time travelling between them.
What can kids do for free in London?
Kids can explore the Natural History Museum, Science Museum and British Museum, play in Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, watch Covent Garden performers, walk the South Bank and see the Changing of the Guard. Several museums request a free timed ticket, so book ahead.
How many days in London are enough for a family?
Three days is comfortable for most families, covering central landmarks, museums with parks, and Tower Bridge with the Tower of London. Two days is workable if you focus on Westminster and South Kensington, while four or more allows day trips and slower mornings.
Is London suitable for toddlers?
Yes, with a relaxed pace. Parks, playgrounds, short river cruises and the London Transport Museum suit toddlers well. Plan around nap times, bring a stroller that folds easily for the Tube, and use museum cafés and baby-changing facilities as regular rest stops.
What can you do in London with kids on a rainy day?
Head for the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, British Museum or London Transport Museum, all with free or low-cost entry for children. SEA LIFE London Aquarium and a West End matinee are good indoor alternatives when the weather turns unpredictable.
What is the best age to take children to London?
Ages five to twelve are ideal, when children can enjoy museums, ceremonies and long outings. Toddlers and teenagers still have plenty to do, but toddlers need slower pacing and teenagers want independence, technology and stories such as the Harry Potter experience.
Is London expensive for families?
It can be, mainly because of paid attractions, central hotels and eating out. However, free museums, free transport for younger children and picnic lunches keep costs down. Use our trip cost calculator to estimate a realistic family budget.
What is the best area to stay in London with kids?
South Kensington is the best all-round base for museums and parks, while the South Bank suits river attractions and Covent Garden offers central access. Choose a hotel close to a Tube station with step-free access and a few cafés nearby.
Conclusion
London rewards families who match attractions to their children’s ages, interests and budget. Free museums, big parks and the Changing of the Guard cost little, while the London Eye, Tower of London, London Zoo and Thames cruises add memorable paid highlights. Choose two or three favourites per day, keep afternoons flexible and plan around meals and rest breaks. For more planning ideas, explore our full London travel guide and build the trip that suits your family best.
Arman Ashraf is a content writer focused on travel and tourism. He creates practical, well-researched travel guides, destination articles, and travel tips designed to help readers plan trips with greater confidence. His work combines clear, engaging writing with SEO best practices, covering destinations, things to do, travel planning, and useful advice for travelers. Arman is committed to producing helpful content that makes discovering and planning travel easier.