With the summer and school holidays are fast approaching we, as parents have the never-ending task of keeping our children entertained whilst also attempting to possibly teach them something that they may or may not be able to use at some point in life.
The juggling act between fun, excitement, joy, learning and cost, and if you do live in or around London then you will know how difficult it can be to tick all of those boxes and still retain some of your own sanity.
London is a city brimming with excitement and endless possibilities, and when it comes to keeping young kids and older kids entertained, it truly shines. From fascinating museums and enchanting parks to thrilling attractions, free things and interactive experiences, there is an abundance of incredible fun family days tailored specifically for kids. Whether you’re a resident looking for new adventures or visiting the capital with your family, this guide presents the 65 must-do activities for kids in London.
With this comprehensive guide, you will have the ultimate resource at your fingertips to create unforgettable memories with your children in the vibrant and diverse city of London. Whether you seek educational experiences, thrilling adventures, art galleries, or simply delightful family fun, there is something for everyone on this list.
So, top up that Oyster Card, get on a double decker bus, dig out the Tube map and head off into the world’s greatest city all ready and willing to go.
Popular Family Attractions
- Unveil the secrets of the Harry Potter film series as you go on an exclusive tour of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London.
- Indulge in the luxurious experience of the London Eye and savour amazing views from high above the city.
- Learn about the fascinating underwater world, encountering sharks, green sea turtles, penguins, and more at the SEA LIFE London aquarium.
- Witness panoramic views of London from the sky-high observation deck of The View from The Shard.
- Get up close and personal with lifelike wax figures of celebrities and influential figures at the renowned Madame Tussauds London.
- Enjoy the exciting role-play adventures and explore a wide range of professions at KidZania, where imagination knows no bounds.
Outdoor Kids Activities
- Embark on an adventure through the ancient woodlands of Epping Forest, or let the little ones unleash their energy in the sprawling Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
- Engage in bug hunting and pond dipping at Camley Street Natural Park in King’s Cross, immersing yourself in the wonders of nature.
- Indulge in the beauty of Hampton Court Palace’s magnificent gardens and expansive parkland, where getting lost is part of the charm.
- Pedal your way through the city and uncover a different perspective with these enjoyable cycling routes.
- Experience the magic of cinema under the night sky at one of London’s finest outdoor cinemas.
- Marvel at the illuminated bridges of the capital shining brightly after sunset with the breathtaking Illuminated River project.
- Participate in exciting outdoor activities during the summer holidays, such as exploring Hyde Park with Discovery Days, where fun and discovery go hand in hand.
Top Museums For Kids
- Discover the iconic red buses of the capital at the London Transport Museum.
- Immerse yourself in the cultural wonders of the Horniman Museum and Gardens in South London, where children can engage with the museum’s artefacts through touch.
- Marvel at a meteorite that has been around for four-and-a-half billion years at the Peter Harrison Planetarium, located within the Royal Observatory Greenwich.
- Feel the ground tremble beneath you as you feel the simulated earthquake at one of London’s free museums, the Natural History Museum.
- Pay a visit to the Science Museum and be captivated by the awe-inspiring Command Module of Apollo 10, the spacecraft that orbited the moon in 1969.
- Witness the ancient marvels of Egyptian mummies on display at the British Museum.
- Travel back in time and explore London’s Roman Amphitheatre, retracing the footsteps of ancient Londinium.
- Enhance your knowledge of modern art and unleash your creativity with engaging kids days at Tate Modern.
Best Theatre For Kids
- Prepare to be dazzled by the spectacular musicals gracing the stage, featuring beloved family favourites like The Lion King and Wicked.
- Join in the enchantment as you sing along with Arendelle’s princesses, Anna and Elsa, on their magical journey in Frozen.
- Witness the captivating adaptation of one of Roald Dahl’s timeless tales in the extraordinary Matilda The Musical.
- Embark on a mesmerizing on-stage adventure with Harry, Ron, and Hermione in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.
- Delight in a unique puppet show set in a watery wonderland at the enchanting Puppet Theatre Barge.
- Delve into the world of live theatre at one of the city’s family-friendly venues, specially tailored to entertain children of all ages.
Best Film Locations and Cinematic Experiences
- Get ready for a magical journey through Harry Potter’s London by visiting the iconic film locations from the beloved series.
- Check out the whimsical world of Shrek with a visit to Shrek’s Adventure! London, an enchanting indoor attraction inspired by the popular film.
- Trace the steps of movie stars as you explore the top film locations in the capital city.
- Capture memorable selfies with beloved movie characters along the Scenes in the Square statue trail, delighting both kids and adults alike.
- Indulge in a cinematic experience like no other by watching a film on the UK’s largest cinema screen at the BFI IMAX, located on the vibrant South Bank.
Best Free Activities For Kids
- Enjoy watching the awe-inspiring street entertainers in Covent Garden, captivating curious children with their remarkable performances.
- Engage in interactive role-play as you play soldiers and explore the National Army Museum, delving into the rich history of the armed forces.
- Enjoy learning about London’s past at the Bank of England Museum, where you can discover the fascinating history of British currency.
- Plunge yourself in the captivating tales of the river Thames at the Museum of London Docklands, unravelling the historical significance of this iconic waterway.
- Take a captivating voyage through maritime history at the National Maritime Museum, where you can explore the fascinating stories of seafaring adventures.
- Witness the majestic Tower Bridge opening right before your eyes, as you stand on the bank of the river Thames, capturing a truly remarkable sight.
Travelling Around London With Children
- Experience incredible views of London as you glide above the river Thames aboard the IFS Cloud Cable Car.
- Discover the city’s top attractions in comfort as you hop on and off a convenient bus tour, giving your feet a rest while enjoying panoramic vistas.
- Indulge your imagination by taking a seat at the front of a driverless Docklands Light Railway train, pretending you’re the one in control.
- Step back in time and climb aboard a classic Concorde at the Brooklands Museum, where you can enjoy a virtual “flight” and relive the excitement of this iconic aircraft.
- Enjoy a delightful cruise along the river Thames with City Cruises, basking in the beauty of London’s skyline and iconic landmarks from the water.
Most Popular Shops For Kids
- Discover a world of endless joy and excitement at Hamleys, London’s renowned and beloved toyshop, where toys of every kind await.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth cravings by visiting a candy wonderland at M&M’s World, the largest sweet shop in the world, located in Leicester Square.
- Face the ultimate LEGO paradise by visiting the world’s largest LEGO Store, where you can explore a vast array of bricks and sets before venturing to the enchanting LEGOLAND Windsor.
- For those with a taste for the delightfully spooky, Hoxton Street Monster Supplies offers a great attraction for little vampires and werewolves to stock up on high-quality goods and embrace their supernatural side.
Active Things To Do For Kids
- Embrace the stunning landscapes of Kew Gardens as you explore its enchanting grounds.
- Climb atop The O2 and enjoy crazy views for those over the age of 10.
- Take to the waters of Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park and enjoy a leisurely ride in a pedalo or rowing boat.
- Challenge yourself to reach the summit of Primrose Hill, where a rewarding panorama of London awaits.
- Dive into the Aquatics Centre, the venue that hosted swimming and diving events during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
- Relish a refreshing swim in one of London’s beautiful lidos.
- Let little ones tackle the heights at Chelsea’s Clip n’ Climb (for children over the age of four).
- Feel pure joy as you bounce and leap at Oxygen Free jumping located at The O2.
- Visit the zip wire treetop adventure at Go Ape Battersea.
Things To Do For Teenagers
- Encounter an exhilarating speedboat tour, racing down the river Thames for an unforgettable adventure.
- Visit the legendary Bard with a guided tour of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, where older kids can learn all about his life and works.
- Indulge in a spine-chilling experience as you explore the dark and macabre history of the capital at the London Dungeon.
- Step into the underground labyrinth of the Churchill War Rooms, the secret headquarters that sheltered Churchill and his government during the Blitz and uncover their fascinating stories.
- Journey back in time at the Old Operating Theatre, Museum and Herb Garret, and delve into the intriguing history of surgery.
- Get your adrenaline pumping with a thrilling water adventure at Lee Valley White Water Centre, where excitement awaits at every turn.
- Marvel at historical artefacts, including Napoleon’s toothbrush and Darwin’s walking stick, at the Welcome Collection, a treasure trove of curiosity.
- Brave the terrifying London Bridge Experience and venture into the haunted tunnels beneath the famous bridge for a spine-tingling journey.
- Listen to the poignant stories of individuals whose lives have been impacted by war at the Imperial War Museum London, gaining a deeper understanding of the human cost of conflict.
