London with Kids – 25 Magical Attractions That Will Delight the Whole Family!

London is a city that can enchant anyone – from the youngest explorers to seasoned adult travelers. During our family adventure to Britain’s capital, we discovered that this magnificent metropolis offers an extraordinary blend of history, modernity, and unforgettable experiences. Our family spent a week packed with fascinating discoveries in London, with each day bringing new excitement and wonderful memories.

England’s capital is a true treasure trove of things to do in London with kids – from dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum to the magical world of Harry Potter, and rides on the famous red double-decker buses. The city also captivates with its diversity – you can find both modern viewpoints and medieval fortresses, peaceful royal parks and bustling markets. Best of all, many of the most interesting places can be visited completely free of charge!

In this comprehensive guide, we share 25 of the most wonderful attractions in London for families, practical touring plans, and proven tips that will help you create an unforgettable family adventure in one of the world’s most beautiful cities. We’ve tested every recommendation with our own children to ensure these fun things to do in London with kids will create lasting memories for your family too.

Complete List of London Family Attractions

1. Natural History Museum – Meeting Dinosaurs and Natural Wonders
2. London Eye – Bird’s Eye View of London
3. Tower Bridge – Symbol of London
4. Tower of London – Medieval Fortress Full of History
5. Science Museum – Learning Through Play
6. Warner Bros. Studio Tour – Magical World of Harry Potter
7. Hyde Park – London’s Green Lungs
8. M&M’s World – Colorful Paradise for Sweet Tooths
9. LEGO Store – Paradise for Building Block Lovers
10. Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
11. SEA LIFE London Aquarium – Underwater World on the Thames
12. Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard
13. Greenwich Park and Royal Observatory
14. Borough Market – Culinary Paradise
15. London Zoo – Animal World in the City Center
16. Diana Memorial Playground – Fairy Tale Playground
17. Covent Garden – Artistic District Full of Surprises
18. Thames Clipper – Thames River Cruise
19. Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill
20. Churchill War Rooms – Secret Wartime Bunker
21. London Transport Museum – History of Capital Transportation
22. HMS Belfast – Historic Cruiser on the Thames
23. Sky Garden – Free Viewing Terrace on the 35th Floor
24. Horniman Museum and Gardens – Natural History Discoveries and More
25. Leadenhall Market – Victorian Elegance and Harry Potter

1. Natural History Museum – Meeting Dinosaurs and Natural Wonders

The Natural History Museum is an absolute must-see for any family visiting London with children. From the moment you cross the threshold of this magnificent neo-Romanesque building, visitors are greeted by an extraordinary sight – an enormous blue whale skeleton suspended under the main hall’s ceiling.

The museum’s greatest attraction is undoubtedly the dinosaur gallery. The realistic, moving Tyrannosaurus Rex impresses even adults, while interactive exhibits allow visitors to explore the fascinating world of prehistoric reptiles. Children can see skeletons of triceratops, stegosaurus, and many other dinosaurs, plus learn what life on Earth looked like millions of years ago.

The mineralogy section offers a real feast for the eyes – crystals, diamonds, emeralds, and a meteorite from Mars that you can actually touch. The earthquake simulator also makes an extraordinary impression, where you can feel how the ground behaves during seismic tremors.

Our boys spent hours marveling at the massive collection of fossils, gems, and interactive displays. The museum manages to make learning about natural history genuinely exciting for children of all ages.

Practical Information:

• Free admission (online booking recommended)
• Opening hours: 10:00-17:50 daily
• Tube station: South Kensington
• Allow minimum 3 hours for visit
• Website: https://www.nhm.ac.uk

Perfect for: Families seeking educational adventures, dinosaur enthusiasts, and anyone interested in natural wonders.

2. London Eye – Bird’s Eye View of London

The London Eye Ferris wheel is one of the capital’s most recognizable attractions. From 135 meters high, breathtaking views of the entire city unfold. The ride lasts 30 minutes, and each of the 32 glass pods can accommodate up to 25 people.

The best time to visit is late afternoon when you can admire the sunset over the Thames. From above, you can clearly see Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster, Tower Bridge, and the entire city center. It’s an excellent opportunity for spectacular family photos.

What impressed us most was how the slow rotation allows everyone to enjoy the panoramic views without any rushing. Our children pressed their faces against the glass windows, trying to spot all the famous landmarks they’d learned about.

Practical Information:

• Advance online booking recommended
• Tube station: Waterloo or Westminster
• Pods are completely safe, ideal for families
• Fast-track tickets available
• Website: https://www.londoneye.com

Perfect for: Families seeking spectacular city views, memorable photo opportunities, and a unique London experience.

3. Tower Bridge – Symbol of London

Tower Bridge is undoubtedly one of the world’s most beautiful bridges. You can not only walk across the bridge but also tour its interior, where there’s a fascinating exhibition about this construction’s history. The greatest attraction is the glass walkways 42 meters above the Thames – looking down through the transparent floor provides unforgettable sensations.

It’s worth checking the bridge lifting schedule – this spectacular event occurs several times daily when larger ships pass through. The sight of the bridge’s wings opening is an extraordinary experience, especially for children fascinated by mechanics.

The bridge exhibition includes Victorian Engine Rooms where you can see the original steam engines that once powered the bridge lifting mechanism. Interactive displays explain how this engineering marvel has worked for over 125 years.

Practical Information:

• Bridge lifting schedule available online
• Tube station: Tower Hill
• Tour takes approximately 1-1.5 hours
• Combined tickets with other attractions available
• Website: https://www.towerbridge.org.uk

Perfect for: Engineering enthusiasts, families interested in Victorian innovation, and those seeking iconic London photo opportunities.

4. Tower of London – Medieval Fortress Full of History

The Tower of London is one of the capital’s oldest buildings, serving as palace, prison, and fortress for almost a thousand years. Today it’s a fascinating museum where you can see the Crown Jewels, medieval armor, and learn the dark stories of prisoners.

Special attention should be paid to the famous Tower ravens. According to legend, if they ever leave the fortress, the kingdom will fall. Therefore, the birds are carefully tended, and their wings are clipped so they cannot fly away.

An unforgettable experience is touring with one of the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters), who in colorful costumes tell fascinating stories about life in the fortress. Our children were captivated by tales of royal prisoners, executions, and the mystery surrounding the Princes in the Tower.

Practical Information:

• Allow approximately 3 hours for touring
• Tube station: Tower Hill
• Children receive activity booklets
• Audio guides available in multiple languages
• Website: https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/

Perfect for: History-loving families, royal heritage enthusiasts, and those interested in medieval architecture.

5. Science Museum – Learning Through Play

The Science Museum is where children can touch, experiment, and discover the secrets of the technology world. Exhibitions show the history of inventions, from the first steam engines to modern computers and space research.

A huge hit is Wonderlab – an interactive gallery full of scientific experiments. Children can test the workings of light, sound, physical forces, and electricity. For the youngest visitors (up to 8 years), there’s a special area called The Garden with water toys and construction activities.

The museum also has an impressive collection of airplanes, trains, and cars. You can see replicas of the Wright brothers’ first flying machines and legendary steam locomotives.

Our children particularly enjoyed the space galleries, where they could experience what it feels like to walk on the moon and learn about the solar system through hands-on activities.

Practical Information:

• Free admission (some special exhibitions charge)
• Opening hours: 10:00-18:00 daily
• Tube station: South Kensington
• Weekend booking recommended online
• Website: https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/home

Perfect for: Science-loving families, hands-on learning experiences, and aspiring young inventors.

6. Warner Bros. Studio Tour – Magical World of Harry Potter

Warner Bros. Studio in Leavesden is a real treat for fans of the young wizard. Here you can see original film sets, costumes, props, and learn the secrets behind making the Harry Potter films.

The biggest impression is made by the Great Hall of Hogwarts with authentic decorations, Diagon Alley with colorful wizarding shops, and Hagrid’s hut. Children can sit on a broomstick and “fly” over London thanks to green screen technology, and try the famous butterbeer.

A recent addition is the exhibition dedicated to Fantastic Beasts, where you can see new costumes and props from the latest films. The Forbidden Forest section provides an atmospheric walk through towering trees with encounters with magical creatures.

Practical Information:

• Advance booking essential with significant lead time
• Transport: Train to Watford Junction + shuttle bus
• Allow 3-4 hours for visit
• Photography permitted throughout
• Website: https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/

Perfect for: Harry Potter fans of all ages, movie magic enthusiasts, and families seeking truly magical experiences.

7. Hyde Park – London’s Green Lungs

Hyde Park is one of the largest royal parks in the city center. It’s an ideal place to rest from urban hustle and spend active time in fresh air. Children can feed ducks and swans on the Serpentine lake, play on one of numerous playgrounds, or simply run across expansive lawns.

The park contains the famous Speaker’s Corner, where public speeches have taken place for centuries. It’s also where you can ice skate on a seasonal rink in winter, or rent pedal boats in summer.

Hyde Park offers many monuments and sculptures, including the Diana Memorial and the statue of Peter Pan. Children love searching for bold London squirrels that fearlessly approach people.

The park provides a perfect respite from intensive sightseeing. We spent several peaceful hours here, letting our children burn energy while we relaxed on park benches.

Practical Information:

• Free admission
• Open daily from 5:00 AM to midnight
• Tube stations: Hyde Park Corner, Lancaster Gate, Marble Arch
• Pedal boat rental (seasonal, charges apply)
• Website: https://www.royalparks.org.uk/visit/parks/hyde-park

Perfect for: Families needing outdoor space, nature lovers, and those seeking peaceful moments in the city center.

8. M&M’s World – Colorful Paradise for Sweet Tooths

M&M’s World is the only store of its kind in Europe! Across three floors, you can find everything related to colorful chocolates – from traditional sweets to clothing, household gadgets, and London souvenirs.

The biggest attraction is the ability to compose your own M&M’s mixture in chosen colors. Children can also discover what color M&M they are – a special machine “analyzes” their personality and assigns the appropriate chocolate color.

The store is full of colorful installations and interactive elements. You can take photos with giant mascots, watch short films about candy production, or buy M&Ms with your own name printed on them.

Our children spent ages at the personalization station, creating custom mixes and watching the production process through large windows.

Practical Information:

• Free admission
• Leicester Square, Swiss Court
• Tube station: Leicester Square
• LEGO Store nearby
• Website: https://www.mms.com/en-lu/explore/mms-stores/london

Perfect for: Sweet-loving families, colorful souvenir shopping, and interactive retail experiences.

9. LEGO Store – Paradise for Building Block Lovers

The LEGO Store at Leicester Square is the world’s largest such facility after its 2022 renovation. It’s a real treat for all fans of colorful building blocks – from youngest to adult collectors.

In the store, you can see impressive models of London landmarks made from LEGO bricks – Big Ben, Tower Bridge, London Underground with a “LEGO” queen, and other city symbols. The second floor features building tables where children can create their own constructions with different brick series.

A huge hit is creating personalized LEGO minifigures. On special screens, you can design outfits, choose hairstyles and accessories, then receive a unique figure as a London souvenir.

The Pick-a-Brick wall allows visitors to fill containers with loose LEGO elements, perfect for extending collections at home.

Practical Information:

• Free admission
• 3 Swiss Court, Leicester Square
• Tube station: Leicester Square
• Building tables available daily
• Website: https://www.lego.com/en-gb/stores/store/lsq

Perfect for: LEGO enthusiasts, creative building experiences, and unique souvenir shopping.

10. Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

Madame Tussauds is where you can meet “face to face” with the biggest stars of cinema, music, sports, and politics. Realistic wax figures make enormous impressions – some are so perfect it’s hard to distinguish them from real people.

Children love the Marvel section, where they can photograph themselves with Spider-Man, Hulk, and Captain America. There are also figures from Star Wars, the British Royal Family, and many other famous personalities.

The museum also offers interactive attractions, like a ride through miniature London in special carriages or the opportunity to fly on a broomstick in Harry Potter’s world.

Our children enjoyed posing with their favorite characters and testing whether they could spot which figures were wax and which were real people hired as living statues.

Practical Information:

• Marylebone Road
• Tube station: Baker Street
• Children under 2 enter free
• Fast-track tickets available online
• Website: https://www.madametussauds.com/london/

Perfect for: Celebrity-fascinated families, interactive photo opportunities, and those seeking fun entertainment experiences.

11. SEA LIFE London Aquarium – Underwater World on the Thames

SEA LIFE Aquarium is a fascinating journey through various marine ecosystems worldwide. The greatest attraction is the 14-meter underwater tunnel, where you can walk surrounded by sharks, rays, and giant sea turtles.

Children can touch starfish and other invertebrates in the special touch pool, and observe feeding demonstrations for penguins or sharks. Regular educational shows help understand marine creature life and ocean conservation importance.

The aquarium also has a section dedicated to the Thames, where you can see fish living in London’s river. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn how clean the Thames is today compared to the past.

Interactive displays allow children to learn about different marine habitats, from tropical coral reefs to cold polar waters.

Practical Information:

• County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road
• Tube stations: Westminster or Waterloo
• Animal feeding at various times
• Online booking recommended
• Website: https://www.visitsealife.com/london/

Perfect for: Marine life enthusiasts, educational family experiences, and underwater adventure seekers.

12. Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard

The official residence of the King is a must-see place during any first London visit. The monumental palace with 775 rooms makes an enormous impression, and children love spotting guards in characteristic red uniforms and tall bearskin hats.

The most wonderful spectacle is the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place on scheduled days at 11:00 AM. The colorful parade with military music, horses, and traditional uniforms is an unforgettable sight. Arrive early to secure good positions at the palace gates.

During summer, when the Royal Family stays in Scotland, you can tour the palace interiors. This is the only annual opportunity to see the Throne Room, Ballroom, and part of the royal gardens.

The ceremony combines centuries of tradition with spectacular pageantry that captivates visitors of all ages.

Practical Information:

• Changing of the Guard on selected days at 11:00 AM
• Palace tours in summer (July-August)
• Tube stations: Victoria, Green Park
• Free viewing of ceremony
• Website: https://www.rct.uk/visit/buckingham-palace

Perfect for: Royal tradition enthusiasts, ceremonial spectacle lovers, and first-time London visitors.

13. Greenwich Park and Royal Observatory

Greenwich Park is not only a beautiful green space but also where the Earth’s zero meridian passes. At the Royal Observatory, children can stand with one foot on the Eastern Hemisphere and the other on the Western.

The park offers wonderful views of central London with Canary Wharf skyscrapers. There’s also a playground, city farm with domestic animals, and the National Maritime Museum with interactive exhibitions about sea voyages.

Excellent fun for children is searching for the historic ship Cutty Sark, anchored in dry dock. It’s one of the last preserved 19th-century sailing ships.

The combination of science, history, and natural beauty makes Greenwich an ideal full-day family destination.

Practical Information:

• Free park admission
• Observatory – tickets from £16 for adults
• Transport: DLR to Cutty Sark or river boat from central London
• Combine with Maritime Museum visit
• Website: https://www.royalparks.org.uk/visit/parks/greenwich-park

Perfect for: Science-loving families, history enthusiasts, and those seeking educational outdoor experiences.

14. Borough Market – Culinary Paradise

One of London’s oldest food markets is a real treat for young food lovers. Here you can try dishes from around the world, buy exotic fresh fruits, or traditional British delicacies.

Children love tasting different cheeses, fresh fruit juices, and the famous fish & chips. The market has an incredible atmosphere with colorful stalls, spice aromas, and bustling crowds. It’s an excellent lunch spot with views of The Shard – London’s tallest building.

Worth trying are the famous donuts from Bread Ahead and wraps with various fillings. Borough Market has often appeared in films, including “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.”

The market provides an authentic taste of London’s diverse food culture while teaching children about different cuisines from around the world.

Practical Information:

• Open Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-17:00
• London Bridge
• Tube/train station: London Bridge
• Closed Sundays and Mondays
• Website: https://boroughmarket.org.uk

Perfect for: Foodie families, cultural exploration, and those seeking authentic London market experiences.

15. London Zoo – Animal World in the City Center

London Zoo is one of the world’s oldest zoos, located in picturesque Regent’s Park. Across 14 hectares, you can see over 750 animal species from around the globe.

The biggest attractions are Land of the Lions with a royal lion pride, Penguin Beach with swimming pools for penguins, and Gorilla Kingdom. Children also love the new Reptile House with giant tortoises and Meet the Monkeys, where you can observe primates up close.

The zoo runs many educational programs and animal feeding shows. Check the event schedule to not miss presentations with animal keepers.

Conservation efforts at London Zoo help protect endangered species worldwide, making visits both entertaining and educational.

Practical Information:

• Tickets from £30 for adults online
• Regent’s Park
• Tube stations: Camden Town or Regent’s Park
• Family tickets available online
• Website: https://www.londonzoo.org

Perfect for: Animal-loving families, conservation education, and full-day outdoor adventures.

16. Diana Memorial Playground – Fairy Tale Playground

This unique playground in Kensington Gardens was designed in memory of Princess Diana. The central element is an enormous wooden pirate ship with masts, numerous bridges, and tunnels for exploration.

Everything is surrounded by lots of sand where children can build castles. There are also swings, slides, tepees, and many other attractions. The playground is divided into zones for different age groups, so every child finds something suitable.

Beautiful trees surround the playground area, and nearby there’s a café with snacks and drinks. It’s an ideal place to rest after intensive museum visits.

The playground’s design encourages imaginative play while providing safe, creative spaces for children to explore and adventure.

Practical Information:

• Free admission
• Kensington Gardens, Broad Walk
• Tube stations: Lancaster Gate or Queensway
• Entry only with children
• Website: https://www.royalparks.org.uk/visit/parks/kensington-gardens/diana-memorial-playground

Perfect for: Active families with young children, imaginative play lovers, and those needing outdoor recreation.

17. Covent Garden – Artistic District Full of Surprises

Covent Garden is a vibrant district where street art mixes with elegant shopping. On the main square, talented artists perform daily – musicians, dancers, jugglers, and magicians. Children love watching these colorful performances.

The historic 19th-century market houses many shops with original souvenirs, toys, and books. Nearby is the Transport Museum with historic buses and trains you can explore inside.

Don’t miss Neal’s Yard – a hidden alley with colorful buildings that looks like something from a fairy tale. It’s an excellent place for family photos and short rest in one of the cozy cafés.

Street performances happen throughout the day, creating an ever-changing entertainment program that delights visitors of all ages.

Practical Information:

• Artist performances daily from 10:00 AM
• Tube station: Covent Garden
• Many child-friendly restaurants
• Transport Museum – tickets from £23
• Website: https://www.coventgarden.london

Perfect for: Entertainment-seeking families, street performance lovers, and those enjoying lively cultural districts.

18. Thames Clipper – Thames River Cruise

Traveling by boat on the Thames is a wonderful way to see London from a completely different perspective. From the deck, you can admire all the main landmarks – Tower Bridge, London Eye, Palace of Westminster, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and modern Canary Wharf skyscrapers.

Cruises run regularly between different piers, so they can be treated as an alternative to the underground. We particularly recommend the route from Westminster to Greenwich, which lasts about 45 minutes and offers beautiful views of both river banks.

Audio commentary about passing attractions is available onboard, and children receive special activity maps. In summer, choose seats on the upper, open deck.

River travel provides a unique perspective on London’s development through the centuries, from medieval buildings to modern architecture.

Practical Information:

• Tickets from £13.50 for adults
• Children pay half price
• Piers at main attractions
• Card payment at entry
• Website: https://www.thamesclippers.com

Perfect for: Sightseeing with a difference, river adventure lovers, and families wanting unique city perspectives.

19. Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill

Regent’s Park is one of the most beautiful royal parks with magnificent rose gardens and an open-air theater where Shakespeare plays are performed in summer. The park offers many children’s activities – playgrounds, cricket pitches, and a beautiful lake with ducks.

Primrose Hill offers one of London’s most beautiful panoramic city views. Climb the hill at sunset when the city lights up with thousands of lights. It’s an excellent picnic spot and perfect for family photos.

Nearby is Camden Market with colorful stalls where you can buy original souvenirs and try food from different parts of the world.

The combination of formal gardens, recreational facilities, and spectacular viewpoints makes this area perfect for varied family experiences.

Practical Information:

• Free park admission
• Tube stations: Regent’s Park, Camden Town
• Open Air Theatre in summer
• Boatyard Café overlooking the lake
• Website: https://www.royalparks.org.uk/visit/parks/regents-park-primrose-hill

Perfect for: Families seeking green spaces, theater lovers, and those wanting spectacular city views.

20. Churchill War Rooms – Secret Wartime Bunker

These authentic underground rooms served as the command center during World War II. Winston Churchill and his government conducted the war against Nazi Germany from here. Today it’s a fascinating museum where you can see original conference rooms, bedrooms, and communications centers.

Children can listen to recordings of Churchill’s speeches, see battle maps, and learn what life was like in the underground bunker. Interactive exhibitions show how Londoners survived the Blitz – nightly raids by German aircraft.

The museum offers special audio guides for children, which accessibly tell the history of this period.

The preserved wartime atmosphere helps families understand this crucial period in British and world history.

Practical Information:

• King Charles Street
• Tube station: Westminster
• Audio guide available in multiple languages
• Combined tickets with other historic sites
• Website: https://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/churchill-war-rooms

Perfect for: History-interested families, World War II education, and those fascinated by wartime stories.

21. London Transport Museum – History of Capital Transportation

This fascinating museum shows the evolution of London transport from horse-drawn omnibuses to modern underground trains. Children can board historic buses, trams, and tube carriages, and even try driving a train simulator.

The museum offers many interactive stations where you can test different transport methods, design your own bus line logo, or learn how lifts work at tube stations.

Particularly interesting is the section dedicated to famous London black cabs, where you can see how these vehicles looked over the past 100 years.

The museum brilliantly combines transport history with hands-on learning experiences that engage children of all ages.

Practical Information:

• Covent Garden Piazza
• Tube station: Covent Garden
• Train simulator available weekends
• Family activity packs provided
• Website: https://www.ltmuseum.co.uk

Perfect for: Transport enthusiasts, technology lovers, and families interested in London’s development.

22. HMS Belfast – Historic Cruiser on the Thames

This authentic World War II cruiser is now a floating museum, moored on the Thames between Tower Bridge and London Bridge. You can tour all ship decks – from engine rooms to bridges where commanders planned naval battles.

Children love exploring the maze of corridors, sailor cabins, ship kitchens, and ammunition halls. Interactive exhibitions show what life aboard was like during war, and simulators let you feel like a gunner.

From upper decks, there are beautiful views of Tower Bridge and the city center. Check the schedule of special events – sometimes shows for children with actors in sailor costumes are organized.

The ship provides an immersive experience into naval history and wartime life aboard a Royal Navy vessel.

Practical Information:

• The Queen’s Walk
• Tube station: London Bridge
• Free family guides available
• Audio tours in multiple languages
• Website: https://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/hms-belfast

Perfect for: Naval history enthusiasts, hands-on learning lovers, and families interested in wartime experiences.

23. Sky Garden – Free Viewing Terrace on the 35th Floor

Sky Garden is London’s highest public viewing terrace, offering 360-degree city views. Located on the 35th floor of the skyscraper called “Walkie Talkie,” it combines a conservatory with exotic plants and viewing platforms.

Children can discover various tropical plants while simultaneously admiring the capital’s panorama from above. All main London attractions are visible – Big Ben, London Eye, The Shard, Tower Bridge, and many others.

Restaurants and bars operate on-site, so you can combine sightseeing with a meal. Particularly magical are sunset visits when the city lights up with thousands of lights.

The unique combination of gardens and city views creates an unforgettable experience high above London’s streets.

Practical Information:

• Free admission, mandatory online booking
• 20 Fenchurch Street
• Tube station: Monument
• Tickets released 3 weeks early on Mondays
• Website: https://skygarden.london

Perfect for: Families seeking spectacular views, unique experiences, and those wanting free London attractions.

24. Horniman Museum and Gardens – Natural History Discoveries and More

This charming museum in south London offers fascinating collections of natural history, musical instruments, and ethnographic artifacts. Children love the aquarium section with colorful tropical fish and the butterfly and insect collection.

The greatest attraction is the beautiful gardens with panoramic London views. There’s a city farm with goats, sheep, rabbits, and other domestic animals. Children can feed animals and learn about farm life.

The museum often organizes family workshops, performances, and special events. Check the events calendar before visiting.

The museum perfectly combines education with entertainment in a relaxed, family-friendly environment away from central London crowds.

Practical Information:

• Free admission to museum and gardens
• 100 London Road, Forest Hill
• Train station: Forest Hill
• Aquarium – small entry fee
• Website: https://www.horniman.ac.uk

Perfect for: Nature-loving families, educational experiences, and those seeking quieter London attractions.

25. Leadenhall Market – Victorian Elegance and Harry Potter

This beautiful historic market from 1881 captivates with Victorian architecture featuring ornate glass and iron roofs. Colorful shop windows, elegant antique cafés, and pubs create a unique atmosphere.

Harry Potter fans will recognize this place as the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron from the first film. You can find the exact spot where external shop scenes were filmed. Today the market houses elegant restaurants, pubs, and boutiques with jewelry and souvenirs.

Come here for lunch and try traditional British dishes in one of the historic pubs. The atmosphere transports you back to Victorian times.

The market represents one of London’s best-preserved Victorian commercial spaces, combining architectural beauty with cinematic history.

Practical Information:

• Free admission
• Gracechurch Street
• Tube stations: Bank or Monument
• Most beautiful in afternoon hours
• Website: https://leadenhallmarket.co.uk

Perfect for: Architecture enthusiasts, Harry Potter fans, and families seeking atmospheric Victorian experiences.

Free London Attractions for Families

London offers many wonderful attractions that don’t cost a penny. Here are the best free places for families with children:

Museums and Galleries

• Natural History Museum – dinosaurs, minerals, whale skeleton
• Science Museum – experiments, technology, space exploration
• British Museum – Egyptian mummies, artifacts from around the world
• Tate Modern – contemporary art in former power station
• National Gallery – painting masterpieces on Trafalgar Square
• Museum of London Docklands – history of London’s ports
• Horniman Museum – nature, musical instruments, gardens

Parks and Green Spaces

• Hyde Park – Serpentine lake, Speaker’s Corner, squirrels
• Regent’s Park – rose gardens, theater, sports pitches
• St. James’s Park – pelicans, Buckingham Palace views
• Greenwich Park – city panorama, zero meridian
• Richmond Park – wild deer, expansive meadows
• Hampstead Heath – natural swimming ponds, hills

Viewpoints

• Sky Garden – 35th floor, mandatory online booking
• Primrose Hill – city panorama, ideal for picnics
• Parliament Hill – northern city views
• One New Change – shopping center rooftop terrace

Playgrounds

• Diana Memorial Playground – pirate ship, sandpit
• Coram’s Fields – city farm, playgrounds, animals
• St. James’s Park Playground – near Buckingham Palace
• Holland Park Adventure Playground – natural materials

3-Day London Weekend Plan

DAY 1: City Center and Main Symbols Morning (9:00-12:00)

• Start: Westminster – Big Ben and Palace of Westminster
• London Eye ride (30 minutes)
• Walk through St. James’s Park to Buckingham Palace

Afternoon (12:00-17:00)

• Lunch near Piccadilly Circus
• Explore Leicester Square – M&M’s World and LEGO Store
• Tour Covent Garden and street artist performances
• Walk through China Town

Evening (17:00-19:00)

• Dinner at Borough Market
• Thames riverside walk with Tower Bridge views

DAY 2: Museums and Hyde Park Morning (9:00-13:00)

• Natural History Museum (3-4 hours)
• Quick Science Museum visit if time remains

Afternoon (13:00-17:00)

• Lunch in South Kensington
• Walk through Hyde Park – duck feeding, playground
• Visit Buckingham Palace (exterior)
• Changing of Guard if scheduled

Evening (17:00-19:00)

• Dinner in Chinatown or Soho
• Walk through illuminated city center

DAY 3: Tower and City Views Morning (9:00-13:00)

• Tower of London (2-3 hours)
• Walk across Tower Bridge
• HMS Belfast visit if time allows

Afternoon (13:00-17:00)

• Lunch at Borough Market
• Sky Garden – city views (1 hour)
• Thames cruise from Tower Pier to Westminster

Evening (17:00)

• Red bus tour
• Farewell dinner overlooking Thames

7-Day London Weekly Plan

DAY 1: Arrival Day

• Airport transfer, hotel check-in
• Lunch near accommodation
• Local area exploration
• Traditional pub dinner
• Early rest – jet lag recovery

DAY 2: Historic Center

• Westminster and South Bank exploration
• Big Ben and Houses of Parliament
• London Eye with city panorama
• SEA LIFE London Aquarium
• Borough Market dinner

DAY 3: South Kensington Museums

• Natural History Museum (full morning)
• Science Museum (afternoon)
• Hyde Park walk
• Diana Memorial Playground
• Notting Hill dinner

DAY 4: Harry Potter and North London

• Warner Bros Studio (half day)
• Return to center
• King’s Cross Station – Platform 9¾
• British Museum (2 hours)
• Covent Garden dinner with street shows

DAY 5: Tower and City

• Tower of London (3 hours morning)
• Tower Bridge with exhibition
• Lunch at Leadenhall Market
• Sky Garden – city panorama
• HMS Belfast on Thames
• City dinner with The Shard views

DAY 6: Parks and Districts

• Regent’s Park and London Zoo (full morning)
• Lunch in park
• Camden Market – shopping and street food
• Primrose Hill – city panorama
• Holland Park or Kensington Gardens
• Notting Hill dinner – Portobello Road

DAY 7: Final Day – Greenwich and Farewell

• Greenwich cruise (1 hour each way)
• Royal Observatory – zero meridian
• National Maritime Museum
• Lunch in Greenwich
• Return to center via DLR through Canary Wharf
• Final souvenir shopping on Oxford Street
• Farewell dinner with views

Practical Tips for Families

London Transportation:

• Children under 11 travel free on all public transport
• Oyster Card or contactless card payment most convenient
• TfL Go or Citymapper apps help plan routes
• Red buses are attractions themselves

Best Time to Visit:

• May-September: warmest weather but most tourists
• March-April or October-November: fewer crowds, decent weather
• December-February: Christmas atmosphere but short days and cold

Where to Eat with Children:

• Borough Market – variety and atmosphere
• Pubs – traditional British menus, often with kids’ menus
• Chain restaurants (Pizza Express, Wagamama) – predictable and child-friendly
• Museum cafés – convenient during sightseeing

Budget Considerations:

• Many best attractions are free (museums, parks)
• London Pass may pay off with intensive paid attraction visiting
• Park picnics save money and provide fun
• Supermarkets cheaper than restaurants for snacks

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

London with kids is an unforgettable experience that combines education with entertainment, history with modernity, and tradition with innovation. Every family will find something here, and memories from this trip will last for years. When planning your adventure, remember that the city offers so many activities for kids in London that even a week-long visit will only whet your appetite for more. London is a place worth returning to multiple times, discovering new corners and attractions each visit.

Whether you’re seeking things to do in London with toddlers, fun things to do in London with kids, or educational family experiences, this magnificent city delivers beyond expectations. From world-class museums to royal palaces, from beautiful parks to exciting attractions, London proves why it consistently ranks among the world’s top family travel destinations. Start planning your adventure today and discover why visiting London with children creates magical memories that last a lifetime!