101 best things to do in London with kids

1. Go behind the scenes at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London –The Making of Harry Potter: Discover the magic of J.K. Rowling's hit film franchise with original sets, costumes and props. 
2. Explore the marine world at SEA LIFE London Aquarium: Get up close to sharks, sea turtles and penguins at this underworld adventure.
3. Soar above the city on the London Eye: Take a ride on the world's tallest observation wheel and enjoy sweeping views across London's skyline.
4. Visit Madame Tussauds London: Pose with world-famous icons from Hollywood stars to royalty at this legendary wax museum.
5. Step into the world of London's favourite bear at The Paddington Bear Experience: Meet characters inspired by the books and films and explore themed rooms at this family-friendly extravaganza. 
6. Take in sky-high sights at The View from The Shard: Enjoy sweeping views from the tallest building in the UK, offering a breathtaking perspective of the capital.
7. Get lost in history at Hampton Court Palace: Explore the grand Tudor architecture and navigate the UK's oldest surviving hedge maze at King Henry VIII's former royal residence.
8. Pick up a London Pass and save on top attractions: Enjoy access to more than 100 landmarks, from Westminster Abbey to Windsor Castle and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre.

Plan an action-packed day out or stay in the city longer with our guide to London’s top attractions for kids.

1. Sing along to classic family-friendly musicals: Enjoy long-running favourites such as The Lion King and Wicked.
2. Experience Disney's new Hercules the Musical: Follow the journey of a young demi-god in Ancient Greece as he rises from zero to hero in this showstopping stage adaptation.
3. Watch Roald Dahl's cherished tale come to life in Matilda The Musical: Be inspired by the story of Matilda and her extraordinary powers.
4. Follow Harry, Ron, and Hermione in the spectacular Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Palace Theatre: See the trio reunite ninteeen years after graduating from Hogwarts.
5. Take teens to SIX The Musical: See the wives of Henry VIII transformed into pop royalty in this empowering hit.
6. Catch the thrilling immersive skating extravaganza Starlight Express: Watch toy trains race through the auditorium in this high-energy production.
7. Secure your seat for the eagerly anticipated ELF The Musical: Join Buddy on a hilarious adventure from the North Pole to New York City in this festive classic. 28 October 2025 to 3 January 2026
8. First-time theatregoers will love The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre: Experience the magic of Raymond Briggs' beloved children's book reimagined for the stage. 22 November 2025 to 4 January 2026
9. Check out the multi-award-winning Oliver! The Musical: The revival of Dickens' tale follows the journey of Oliver Twist through Victorian London.

1. Make tracks to the London Transport Museum: Discover the history of the capital's iconic red buses, black cabs and Tube trains in fun, interactive exhibits.
2. Explore the Horniman Museum and Gardens in Forest Hill: Kids can get hands-on with fascinating objects in this family-friendly museum of anthropology and nature.
3. See a 4.5-billion-year-old meteorite at the Royal Observatory Greenwich: Visit the Peter Harrison Planetarium for an awe-inspiring journey through space and time.
4. Feel the earth move at the Natural History Museum: Experience a simulated earthquake and uncover the world of dinosaurs, volcanoes and human evolution. Be sure to check out the new exhibition Our World with David Attenborough for a deep-dive into the history of our planet.
5. Marvel at the Apollo 10 Command Module at the Science Museum: Step into the world of space travel and science with exciting exhibits for all ages.
6. Test your senses at the Twist Museum on Oxford Street: Explore more than 60 exhibits, experience interactive illusions, and challenge your perception of colour, shape and sound.
7. Uncover the past at the British Museum: Explore ancient Egypt and come face-to-face with centuries-old artefacts.
8. Walk in the footsteps of Roman gladiators: Discover the remains of London's Roman Amphitheatre hidden beneath Guildhall Art Gallery.
9. Get inspired at Tate Modern: Brush up on modern art and take part in creative activities tailored for kids and families. 
10. Head to the Young V&A in Bethnal Green: Check out themed gallery spaces and explore exciting workshops at this museum for kids.

1. Discover the magic of Harry Potter’s London: Visit filming locations from the hit film franchise and explore locations featured in the books.
2. Step inside Shrek’s Adventure! London: Enjoy an interactive indoor walk-and-ride attraction, meet characters from the cherished DreamWorks films and explore themed rooms.
3. Follow in the footsteps of movie stars: Explore the capital's most famous film locations on a guided walking tour, from James Bond to Paddington.
4. Snap selfies with the kids' favourite movie characters at the Scenes in the Square statue trail: Stand alongside the likes of Batman and Harry Potter in this film-themed trail in Leicester Square.
5. Catch a new blockbuster at the BFI IMAX on the South Bank: Experience cinema like never before on the UK's biggest screen.

1. Be amazed by street entertainers in Covent Garden: Watch magicians and musicians entertain crowds at the vibrant piazza.
2. Play soldiers at the National Army Museum: Explore military history through interactive exhibits.
3. Journey through London’s financial history at the Bank of England Museum: Learn about British currency and discover the capital's economic past.
4. Discover the story of the River Thames at the Museum of London Docklands: Uncover the river's impact on London's growth and culture.
5. Set sail on a maritime adventure at the National Maritime Museum: Dive into Britain's rich naval history with engaging displays and activities.
6. Watch Tower Bridge in action: See this world-famous landmark lift to let boats pass from the banks of the River Thames.

1. Ride through hidden tunnels on the Mail Rail at the Postal Museum: Hop aboard this underground train and learn how post used to travel beneath the city.
2. Step aboard the legendary Cutty Sark in Greenwich: Discover what life was like on this historic 19th-century sailing ship.
3. Enjoy a ride on the Brockwell Park miniature railway: Ride on this charming train, every Sunday from March to October.
4. Explore The Golden Hinde on Bankside: Tour the full-size reconstruction of Sir Francis Drake's renowned ship and picture life as a Tudor sailor.
5. Soar above the Thames on the IFS Cloud Cable Car: Take in panoramic views of London.
6. Rest your feet on a hop-on hop-off bus tour: Cruise past famous sights while learning the history of the city.
7. Sit at the front of a driverless Docklands Light Railway: Play driver on this high-tech train.
8. Board a classic Concorde at the Brooklands Museum: Learn aviation history at this interactive exhibit. 
9. Cruise along the Thames with City Cruises: Take in London's riverside landmarks from the comfort of scenic river cruise.

1. Stand astride two hemispheres at the Royal Observatory Greenwich: See the Prime Meridian Line where east meets west.
2. Step into a world like no other at Leake Street Tunnel: Discover a hidden graffiti wonderland bursting with colour and creativity. 
3. Head to Jurassic World: The Experience at NEON, Battersea Power Station: Journey through 10 immersive zones, meet life-sized dinosaurs and explore real fossilised dinosaur bones.
4. Let your imagination run wild at the Discover Children’s Story Centre: Dive into interactive storytelling zones designed to inspire young kids.

1. Go bug hunting at Camley Street Natural Park: Try pond dipping and spot wildlife at this oasis in King's Cross.
2. Wander the grounds of Hampton Court Palace: Step inside the former home of King Henry VIII and explore Tudor treasures. 
3. Catch a film beneath the stars: Head to one of London's outdoor cinemas to experience your favourite films in the open air. 
4. See London's bridges light up at night: Follow the Illuminated River trail to watch London's landmarks dazzle after sunset.
5. Make the most of the summer holidays in London: Save our guide to the best activities and attractions in the city over summer.
6. Take a splash in one of London's lidos and wild swimming spots: Dive into the ponds at Hampstead Heath or swim in the largest outdoor freshwater pool in the UK at Tooting Bec Lido. 
7. Picnic in one of London's stunning parks: Soak up city views from Greenwich Park, feast near deer at Richmond Park or spot royal landmarks from St James's Park.

1. Let little ones become pirates for the day: Climb aboard Captain Hook's huge wooden pirate ship at the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground.
2. Have hours of fun at Coram’s Fields: Explore this seven-acre (three-hectare) park and playground in Holborn.
3. Spend a fun day at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park: Discover Timber Lodge and Tumbling Bay Playground, featuring rock pools, treehouses, slides, swings and plenty of space to run and play.

1. Explore the gorgeous grounds of Kew Gardens: Walk the treetop walkway, spot immersive installations and explore stunning themed gardens.
2. Hire a pedalo or rowing boat at the Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park: Glide across this stunning lake and soak up beautiful park views.
3. Race to the top of Primrose Hill: Be rewarded with showstopping views of London's skyline.
4. For over-10s, embark on a thrilling expedition with Up at The O2: Walk across the roof of the famous arena for unforgettable city vistas.
5. Take an exhilarating ride down the River Thames: Experience a thrilling speedboat tour and spot famous landmarks like the London Eye and Tower Bridge.
6. Swim in the wake of champions at the Aquatics Centre: Enjoy world-class swimming and diving facilities that hosted the London 2012 Olympics.

1. Get up close to lions, tigers and penguins at London Zoo: Experience an incredible variety of exotic animals like giraffes, tigers and penguins in the heart of the city.
2. Spot birds, otters and other wildlife at the WWT London Wetland Centre: Explore peaceful wetlands and watch nature in action.
3. Pet and feed animals at one of London’s city farms: Enjoy hands-on fun with friendly goats, sheep and more.
4. Meet monkeys, meerkats and more at Battersea Park Children’s Zoo: Discover incredible animals near Battersea Power Station.
5. Watch the pelicans being fed in St James’s Park: Catch this charming daily spectacle in this park on the doorstep of Buckingham Palace.

1. See an over-stuffed walrus and a merman at the Horniman Museum: Explore a collection of curiosities and natural history wonders, and don't miss the hands-on kids' workshops.
2. Marvel at a jar crammed full of moles at the Grant Museum of Zoology: Discover rare specimens and quirky zoological treasures.
3. Go mudlarking outside Gabriel’s Wharf: Dig around for ancient clay pipes, pottery shards and other historic finds by the Thames.
4. Lose yourself among quirky old toys at Pollock's Toy Museum: Step into a tiny world filled with nostalgic and unusual playthings.
5. Flex your mini golf skills at the tech-packed Puttshack: Enjoy a high-tech twist on traditional mini golf.
6. Hop aboard a Taylor Swift-themed afternoon tea bus tour: Sing your heart out, savour sweet treats and glide past London's famous landmarks. 

1. Encounter Jurassic giants at Lightroom's Prehistoric Planet - Discovering Dinosaurs: See beloved scenes from Apple TV's Emmy Award-nominated series brought to life through cutting-edge technology. 
2. Brave The Dare Skywalk: Scale46.8m (153ft) above Tottenham Hotspur Stadium's pitch. 
3. Enjoy a zip wire treetop adventure at Go Ape Battersea: Soar through the trees on this thrilling course.
4. Take on aerial challenges for all ages at Gripped London: Test your climbing and obstacle skills at this exciting indoor adventure park.
5. Have a thrill-a-minute adventure at Lee Valley White Water Centre: Dive into high-speed rafting and kayaking on the Olympic-standard rapids.
6. Head to one of London’s theme parks: Spend an adrenaline-packed day filled with rides, attractions and family fun.

Best kids shops and toy shops in London

1. Find toys galore at London’s most famous toyshop, Hamleys: Explore seven floors of endless playthings and classic favourites.
2. Visit the world's largest sweet shop at M&M’s World in Leicester Square: Indulge your sweet tooth with colourful treats.
3. Shop at the world's largest LEGO Store: Discover the ultimate LEGO haven before heading to LEGOLAND Windsor.
4. Let little vampires and werewolves stock up on spooky goods at Hoxton Street Monster Supplies: Shop for quirky treats and essentials at this independent store.

Things to do in London with teenagers

1. Learn all about the Bard on a tour of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre: Discover the history and magic behind London's most iconic theatre.
2. Head underground to the Churchill War Rooms: Explore the secret wartime headquarters where Churchill and his government gathered during the Blitz.
3. See Napoleon’s toothbrush and Darwin’s walking stick at the Wellcome Collection: Uncover fascinating objects that reveal stories of science and history.
4. Take a trip to the London Dungeon: Uncover chilling tales from the capital's dark past such as stories of Jack the Ripper and Sweeney Todd.
5. Hear the stories of people whose lives have been impacted by war at the Imperial War Museum London: Engage with powerful exhibitions and models on past conflicts. 

Things to do with a 5-year-old in London

1. Head to Bethnal Green and explore the Young V&A: Enjoy free interactive displays, hands-on workshops and an open studio for little ones.
2. Take your little one to the British Library: Discover a historic collection including the Magna Carta and Beatles' handwritten lyrics - be sure to check out upcoming events and exhibitions before your visit.
3. Is your little one a football fan?: Explore the best stadium tours in London for a behind-the-scenes look at the capital's top clubs.
4. Enjoy an adventure at Chessington World of Adventures: Experience 40 rides, 10 themed lands, plus an aquarium and zoo for a memorable family day out.

Where to eat in London with kids

1. Indulge your sweet tooth with themed afternoon teas: Enjoy imaginative menus inspired by the favourites such as Peter Pan to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
2. Tuck into tasty dishes inspired by global cuisine at Giraffe: Find this family-friendly chain across various locations in London.
3. Feast on ice cream, gelato or sorbet at top ice-cream parlours: Or treat yourself to cupcakes, brownies and macarons at one of London's best cake shops.
4. Head to the Hard Rock Cafe for a family-friendly meal: Savour delicious dishes alongside striking music memorabilia.

Discover more family activities in London and find family-friendly restaurants.

Find more family ideas and activities during the school holidays, including things to do during February half-term, the Easter holidays, the May half-term holiday, the school summer holidays, the October half-term and Christmas.

If you're in London this weekend, check out the best activities awaiting you in the city, and don't miss our guide to the best things to do in London by month. Be sure to download the Visit London app for exclusive offers and on-the-go inspiration.