Discover the perfect London itinerary for families with young children. It includes trips to kid-friendly attractions, parks, and activities. These will make your family’s London visit amazing. You’ll visit spots like the Tower of London, British Museum, and Museum of Natural History. Plus, you’ll enjoy playgrounds, story centers, and other cool stuff for young kids.
Key Takeaways
- London offers a variety of family-friendly attractions for young kids
- A 12-day London itinerary provides ample time to explore kid-centric activities
- Harry Potter-themed itinerary for your family in London
- Recommended family-friendly areas include South Kensington, Mayfair, and Westminster
- Suggested attractions include Kensington Palace, Natural History Museum, and British Museum
- Many of London’s top attractions offer free admission for families
Here’s a fun-filled Harry Potter-themed itinerary for your family in London:
Day 1: Warner Bros. Studio Tour
- Morning: Start your day with the Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter. This is a must-do for any Harry Potter fan. You’ll get to see the sets, props, and costumes from the films.
- Lunch: Enjoy a meal at the studio’s café, where you can even try some Butterbeer!
- Afternoon: Continue exploring the studio, including the Forbidden Forest, Diagon Alley, and the Hogwarts Express.
Day 2: Harry Potter Walking Tour
- Morning: Begin with a Harry Potter Walking Tour. Visit iconic filming locations like Leadenhall Market (Diagon Alley) and Claremont Square (Grimmauld Place).
- Lunch: Head to a nearby café or restaurant for a break.
- Afternoon: Visit King’s Cross Station to see Platform 9¾ and take a photo with the trolley disappearing into the wall. Don’t forget to check out the Harry Potter shop there!
Day 3: London Zoo and The Cursed Child
- Morning: Visit the London Zoo and see the Reptile House where Harry first spoke to a snake.
- Lunch: Have a picnic at the zoo or dine at one of the zoo’s restaurants.
- Afternoon: Explore more of the zoo or visit another nearby attraction.
- Evening: Watch Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Palace Theatre. Be sure to book your tickets in advance as they sell out quickly.
Day 4: Magical Extras
- Morning: Take a trip to St Pancras Station to see the beautiful building used as the exterior of King’s Cross in the films.
- Lunch: Enjoy a themed afternoon tea at a place like Cutter & Squidge’s Potion Room.
- Afternoon: Visit the House of MinaLima to see graphic art from the Harry Potter films.
This itinerary should give your family a magical experience in London, filled with Harry Potter adventures and plenty of fun for the kids! 🧙♂️✨
Discover Children’s Story Centre and Westfield Stratford City
Start your London adventure at the enchanting Children’s Story Centre in Stratford. It’s great for kids 2-8 years old. They’ll love the interactive storytelling, fun exhibits, and a warm cafe. Spend about 2.5 hours discovering the magical worlds and story garden.
Discover Children’s Story Centre
Just a quick walk from Stratford station on the Jubilee line, this Children’s Story Centre is not to be missed. It’s full of fun for young adventurers. They can join storytelling sessions or play in interactive areas. Your children will love their time at this children’s story centre London.
Westfield Stratford City
After the Children’s Story Centre, visit the nearby Westfield Stratford City. It’s Europe’s biggest shopping mall. There are over 250 shops, 70 places to eat, and many play areas. Enjoy shopping, eating, or let the kids play freely.
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
From Westfield, go to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, where the 2012 Olympics took place. It’s now a big nature park with gardens, sports spots, and restaurants. It’s ideal for family visits. See the park by walking with a guide or take a boat tour.
“The Children’s Story Centre is a magical place that sparks the imaginations of young visitors. With its interactive exhibits and engaging storytelling, it’s a must-visit for any family exploring London.”
Science Museum and Natural History Museum
Your London adventure with kids won’t be complete without the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum. They have lots of fun stuff and cool things to learn. Your little ones will have a blast and get inspired.
The Science Museum
The Science Museum is perfect for families and it’s free to enter. Make a reservation to skip the long lines. Inside, your kids can touch and play with cool exhibits. There’s an space exhibit that my toddler loved. They also have a good cafe for snacks and meals.
The Museum of Natural History
Close by is the Museum of Natural History. It’s also free and great for families. Inside, you’ll see amazing things, like a most intact Stegosaurus fossil skeleton. It’s cool for older kids, but younger ones might not enjoy it as much. Since it’s free, you can quickly pop in and out.
Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground
Wrap up your day with a visit to the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground. It’s a free, Peter Pan-inspired playground with a big pirate ship. It’s very popular, so going early is a good idea. Kids love it for its fun play areas and creative vibe.
“The Science Museum is a treasure trove of interactive exhibits and educational experiences that will delight and inspire your little ones.”
The Science Museum, Natural History Museum, and Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground offer a great day out. You’ll have tons of fun, learn a lot, and play for free. Make sure to include these must-visit attractions in your London family trip.
Museum of the Docklands and National Maritime Museum
London is full of museums perfect for all kids. The Museum of the Docklands is great for families. It’s near Canary Wharf tube station. There’s a special area called Mudlarks just for little kids.
At Mudlarks, children can play dress-up, climb, and sail toy ships. Even though the museum might not entertain them for long, Mudlarks and the cafe are worth visiting. The cafe offers lunches kids will enjoy.
From the Docklands Museum, a Thames River ferry takes you to the National Maritime Museum. This ride takes about 20 minutes. It’s a fun and pretty way to move around the city with kids.
The Maritime Museum has a play area called AHOY for kids under 7. It has a pirate ship, toy cannons, and a fish market. Children can also play dress-up in maritime-themed costumes.
After the museum, don’t miss Greenwich’s lovely area. Visit Gail’s Bakery by the museum. They have great snacks, like scones, for afternoon treats.
Another fun spot is Mudchute Urban Farm. This big farm is free to enter. It has over 100 animals and is perfect for kids who love nature.
Between the fun exhibits at the Docklands Museum, the ferry rides, and the animals at Mudchute, there’s a lot to do here. These places are perfect for families, bringing joy to both kids and adults.
Hampton Court Palace and Kew Gardens
For a fun day trip from central London, think about visiting Hampton Court Palace and Kew Gardens. These special places mix learning, exploring, and fun, ideal for families with kids.
Begin with a look at Hampton Court Palace, a stunning Tudor palace. It has an amazing Magic Garden playground outside. Kids can play in the sand, spot water features, and enjoy a snack at the café. Next, discover the palace and its big grounds. They have guided tours and rides in horse-drawn carriages, showing you this landmark’s history.
Now, let’s head to Kew Gardens, just a half-hour journey away. It’s a huge 300-acre plant paradise. Kids will love the Children’s Garden with trampolines, climbing spots, and open fields. Explore different gardens, see the glasshouses, and watch your kids’ creativity soar in this lovely place.
| Attraction | Admission Prices |
|---|---|
| Hampton Court Palace | Adults: £26.30 – £29.00 Children (6-17): £13.10 – £14.50 Under 5s: Free |
| Kew Gardens | Family Ticket (2 adults, 2 children): £40.00 Adults: £17.00 Children: £5.00 |
Hampton Court Palace and Kew Gardens are perfect for families. Filled with fun and learning, they make a great day trip from London. Booking a visit will give you wonderful memories at these family-friendly attractions in London.
Kensington Palace and Princess Diana Playground
Start your day at Kensington Palace in London for a family-friendly trip. It’s a historic royal spot that’s fun for kids. They can enjoy interactive displays and activities that make history interesting. Don’t miss the Princess Diana exhibit that shows her famous clothes and personal items.
Get your tickets for Kensington Palace early to skip the long wait. Normally, it gets about 3,000 people a day. Now, with limited visitors due to safety rules, you must pick a time to visit. A visit usually takes about two hours, so plan your day well.
Lunch & Princess Diana Playground
After seeing the palace, head to the Diana, Princess of Wales’ Memorial Playground. It’s a big outdoor play area that kids love. There’s a huge pirate ship, sand to play in, and a little stream.
Bring a picnic or have lunch at a nearby kid-friendly restaurant. Let the kids play and have fun before moving on. This playground, with its fun design and activities, is a hit with families in London.
Kensington Gardens
Next, walk through Kensington Gardens. You’ll see the Peter Pan statue and hear about the friendly parakeets. If it’s a sunny day, think about hiring a boat to paddle around the lake.
Kensington Gardens is a calm place amidst the city rush. Take a slow walk to enjoy the green spaces. There’s a lot to do and see in this park that families will like.
Enjoying Kensington Palace and the gardens is perfect for families with little ones in London. Learn about the city’s past and have fun outside. It’s a great way to spend the day with your family.
Natural History Museum and Victoria & Albert Museum
After exploring London’s top sights, enjoy an afternoon tea experience with your family. Many places offer tea until 5 or 7 pm. This makes it a good choice for an early dinner and it’s fun for everyone. We suggest booking for 4:30 or 5 PM to skip the busy times and let your kids enjoy it more.
When you book, ask about children’s tea menus. These special menus are perfect for kids. They help introduce children to the fun of afternoon tea with foods they’ll love.
Afternoon Tea in London with Kids
Taking afternoon tea in London with kids can lead to great family memories. Imagine a cozy place serving tasty treats with great service. It can turn any meal into something special. Here’s how to make it even better for kids:
- Choose a place that welcomes families and has a laid-back vibe.
- Look for venues with fun extras for kids, like games or crafts.
- Encourage trying new things, but also have their favorite snacks ready.
- Tell them about the tea’s history and customs. Make it a learning moment.
- Bring toys or games to fill the time between snacks.
With a little planning, you can pick the best afternoon tea in London for your family. This choice can make everyone’s day great.
“Afternoon tea is a beloved British custom that’s perfect for families with a little planning. It’s a chance to enjoy tasty food and connect over a fun experience.”
British Museum and Transport Museum
After trying out tasty pies and Fuller’s Ale at the pub, it’s time for culture. Let’s visit two of London’s top sights. We’ll see the British Museum and the National Gallery.
Lunch at Admiralty’s
The Admiralty’s pub offers a warm welcome with its family-friendly setting. It’s famous for its delicious pies and Fuller’s Ale. Try classics like steak and ale, or new twists for vegetarians. Your taste buds will be happy.
National Gallery
Next, we’ll make our way to the National Gallery, a top art museum. It might surprise you to know it’s great for kids, too. They have tours for families. You can also find interesting books and activities in the shop.
Even a quick stop to see the beautiful art and building is worth it.
| Attraction | Admission Cost | Recommended Time |
|---|---|---|
| British Museum | Free | 1-2 hours |
| National Gallery | Free | 30 minutes – 2 hours |
The British Museum and the National Gallery are important stops in London. They’re great for families. You and your young ones can dive into the city’s art and history.
London itinerary for families with young children
Explore the vibrant city of London with your family. Create lasting memories with this 12-day itinerary. It’s designed for families with young children. London offers a perfect blend of must-see attractions, educational experiences, and fun interactive activities.
This ensures the whole family stay engaged and entertained.
You can maximize your time in London with careful planning. Ensure your family has an unforgettable adventure by exploring various places. These include the wonders of the Science Museum and Natural History Museum. Also, visit the fun Princess Diana Memorial Playground and Kensington Gardens.
Traveling with young kids in London is easy. This is because the city’s public transportation is very accessible. Kids under 11 ride for free on the London Underground, buses, and trams with a paying adult. This makes exploring the city easy and fun.
Key places in this itinerary are the iconic London Eye and the British Museum. You’ll also visit Westminster Abbey, Kensington Palace, and the Churchill War Rooms. Don’t miss a visit to the Tower of London to learn about the city’s history and culture.
For those on a budget, there are free and affordable places to enjoy. These include the Princess Diana Memorial Playground, Greenwich Park, and the London Transport Museum. Staying in places like Fulham can be cheaper than central London. This helps save money on accommodations.
Whether it’s about learning, having outdoor fun, or simply enjoying the city’s buzz, this itinerary has something for every family. It promises 12 days filled with unforgettable moments and new discoveries in London. Get ready for a journey that will enchant your family with the magic of this global city.
Best London Attractions for Young Kids
No trip to London is full without seeing the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey. These places show off the city’s deep history and culture. The big buildings and exciting stories will catch the interest of both kids and grown-ups.
Don’t miss Buckingham Palace and the London Eye on your visit list. They are great for family pictures and getting a taste of London’s royal legacy. The London Eye is a huge ferris wheel with a half-hour ride and amazing city views. It’s perfect for kids and parents to enjoy together.
| Attraction | Highlights | Best for Ages |
|---|---|---|
| Houses of Parliament | Iconic architecture, rich history, guided tours | All ages |
| Big Ben | Towering clock tower, stunning views | All ages |
| Westminster Abbey | Centuries-old Gothic cathedral, royal weddings | All ages |
| Buckingham Palace | Iconic royal residence, Changing of the Guard | All ages |
| London Eye | Panoramic views of the city, family-friendly | All ages |
These London attractions mix history, culture, and fun for kids. Whether it’s admiring the Houses of Parliament or the Westminster Abbey, or enjoying the London Eye views, your kids will have a great time in this lively city.
Fun and Free Things to Do in London with Kids
London is full of fun and affordable things for families. You can try brass rubbings or visit the British Museum. Both options are great for kids.
Brass Rubbings
Brass rubbings can be a great activity for kids in places like St. Martin in the Fields. They can pick from a range of brass rubbings like kings and queens. It’s a fun way to learn about the city’s history and enjoy creativity.
British Museum
The British Museum is a rich place to visit for free. There are special activities for kids like backpacks with fun tasks and older kids can do scavenger hunts. It’s a good spot to learn about mummies and ancient items. Spending a few hours here can really spark an interest in history and culture for your children.
London is a great place for families. It has a lot of activities like brass rubbings and free museums. Your family can have a memorable, inexpensive time in this lively city.
“The British Museum is a treasure trove of fascinating exhibits and artifacts, and it’s completely free to visit.”
Conclusion
London is perfect for families with kids. It has a lot to see and do. By using this 12-day plan, your family will have an amazing time. You’ll fill your trip with great memories in this lively and deep city.
The Science Museum and the Natural History Museum are full of cool things to see. The Princess Diana Playground is lovely, and Buckingham Palace is grand. See London’s famous sights, have tea, and visit fun places. Your trip has everything planned out for you.
Traveling with kids means being ready to change plans. But, enjoy all the special times. London is great for learning, having fun, and exploring with your family. It’s the best spot for your next trip together.
