There’s no denying that my dwelling metropolis could be costly – however with so many free things to do in London with kids, there are many household days out that received’t price you a penny.
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Whether you’re in search of an inexpensive day trip in London with kids, need to combine some funds choices in with the pricier household points of interest, or fancy a problem like seeing London for lower than £5 per day, these are my high picks.
From main London landmarks to the perfect inexperienced areas in the town, London’s high free museums, playgrounds and even Harry Potter areas in London, you’ll have loads of money left for souvenirs.
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See London’s sights for free
Palaces, historic landmarks, even some conventional ceremonies which return centuries – these free things to do with kids in London are unmissable.
If you’re prepared to get strolling, I’ve bought a self-guided strolling tour route of London’s landmarks which is able to take you previous all the important thing sights with out spending a penny.
The whole stroll stretches for seven miles, however in the event you – understandably – don’t fancy doing that every one in sooner or later with kids, you too can break up this free London strolling route into smaller sections.
See Tower Bridge rise
With its blue and white ornament, Tower Bridge is a London icon (and no, it’s not referred to as London Bridge). And you too can see Tower Bridge carry round 800 instances a yr.
The central sections could be raised to permit bigger boats to sail into the Upper Pool of London – technically the bridge is a mixed suspension and bascule bridge – and the instances are revealed in advance.
You can get a number of the greatest views of Tower Bridge opening from the financial institution too, with viewpoints on the north financial institution close to the Tower of London and in the direction of St Katherine’s Pier – spot the lady with a dolphin fountain as you do – or on the south financial institution close to HMS Belfast or round Butler’s Wharf.
Check essentially the most up to date schedule of bridge carry instances.
For extra concepts on how to lower your expenses on days out in London with kids, try my high ideas
Bonus: Tower of London – The Ceremony of the Keys
At the close by Tower of London, the historic Ceremony of the Keys is unfortunately not utterly free. The £5 charge per ticket remains to be nicely value it to watch historical past in motion although, probably the most uncommon things to do in London with kids.
Back in the 14th century, Edward III was livid to uncover he might stroll into the Tower of London unchallenged – and decreed the fortress needs to be locked at sundown and unlocked at dawn from that time on. And the custom continues to today, with the go to now beginning at 9.30pm: tickets obtainable from the beginning of the month, have to be prebooked.
Check out my expertise of watching the Ceremony of the Keys with kids
Look at Buckingham Palace
If you desire a glimpse of the State Apartments at Buckingham Palace, it received’t come low cost – however taking a look on the sweeping façade (and checking to see if the royal household is at dwelling), comes completely free.
If you spy the Royal Standard fluttering above the palace roof, it’s an indication that the monarch is in residence, but when the Union Jack is flying, it’s proof he’s not current.
You may also spot the Victoria Memorial, earlier than heading off down the tree-lined stretch of The Mall or into St James’s Park in the direction of Westminster or Green Park in the direction of Piccadilly.
Listen to Big Ben
One of the icons of London, the Elizabeth Tower – which homes Big Ben – was beneath scaffolding for years throughout an extended restoration mission however has fortunately now been unveiled as soon as extra.
The 96m tall clocktower dates again to 1859 and with London site visitors (and plenty of guests climbing the steps inside as a part of the Big Ben excursions), the renovations had been the primary for round 40 years.
Now work has been accomplished and the clock face is seen once more. The 13.7 tonne Great Bell, as Big Ben is formally recognized, was additionally silenced through the facelift, aside from particular events however has resumed the well-known ‘booooong’ all through the day as soon as work is full.
See the Changing of the Guard
Another custom that dates again centuries – this one to the late fifteenth century – the Changing of the Guard is one among London’s hottest free points of interest as they march in their well-known bearskin hats as a full navy band performs.
The Household Troops have guarded Buckingham Palace since Queen Victoria moved in in 1837, though they’ve protected the monarch and royal palaces for hundreds of years earlier than then. And from 10.43am, the Old Guard fingers over to the New Guard in a ceremony which takes round an hour.
You may also see the guards beginning to kind up by St James’s palace from 10.30am as they put together to march to Buckingham Palace, and the brand new guard arriving from Wellington Barracks. The Changing of the Guard usually takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays (each day in June/July) however could also be cancelled for main occasions in addition to significantly dangerous climate – test it’s going forward earlier than you queue.
Expect to get there early in order for you a great place – being too shut to the palace isn’t all the time ideally suited, as you don’t essentially have the perfect view by the gates. If you’re visiting London with youthful kids, get a style at Wellington Barracks on Birdcage Walk beforehand, the place you may spot them forming up and listen to the music at round 10.15.
For a much less busy choice, you too can see the Queen’s Life Guard change on Horse Guards Parade, which tends to be much less busy – 11am each day, besides on Sundays when it takes place at 10am.
For extra royal locations in London to go to with kids, try my decide of the perfect, from palaces to castles and extra
Hop on a London bus
Another icon of London, a purple double-decker bus is a good expertise in addition to doubling as a mini free tour of London – see in the event you can seize the entrance seats on the high for the perfect view.
Strictly talking, this one is barely free for kids beneath 11 – mother and father have to pay (though grownup fares are a mere £1.75 for an hour, so it’s nonetheless a little bit of a discount – playing cards solely, no money. Check out this put up for extra particulars of utilizing public transport in London with kids).
Sadly the final of the traditional Routemaster buses has been retired from Route 15 nevertheless it’s nonetheless an amazing route to see the sights, passing the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral and Trafalgar Square.
Or route 26 travels from Victoria through Westminster Abbey to Horseguards parade, Trafalgar Square and on to St Paul’s (changing the outdated route 11), whereas route 9 takes you from Trafalgar Square west previous Piccadilly to the South Kensington museums and Kensington Palace.
Visit the Sky Garden
London’s highest public backyard is free to go to, though you do want to ebook in advance to take in the views – unsurprisingly tickets to the Sky Garden get snapped up at weekends and also you’ll want ID, so plan forward.
Not removed from Monument station (check out the well-known Monument itself on the best way, one other free factor to do in London with kids in the event you don’t climb it), the backyard sits on the high of the skyscraper Londoners know because the Walkie Talkie constructing – in the event you’re struggling with instructions, it’s not tough to spot.
With a coated terrace, you may get some superb views throughout to the Shard, St Paul’s, Tower Bridge and alongside the Thames throughout your hour slot. You can keep longer in the event you plan go to one of many locations to eat and drink, though these are (clearly) not free.
Horizon 22 (22 Bishopsgate)
The new Horizon 22 is London’s highest free viewing platform, with an opportunity to look out over the town from 254 metres up.
Opened in September 2023 at 22 Bishopsgate, it’s solely a brief stroll from the Sky Garden and the Garden at 120, so that you’ll get related views – whereas this one is larger, you don’t get the identical backyard atmosphere although.
Tickets normally grow to be obtainable 60 days in advance, however get snapped up in a short time. If you’re in the world, flip up between 10am and 12 to get tickets for a similar day, with a QR code to scan for entry.
Garden at 120 (120 Fenchurch St)
Garden at 120 is one other of the newer viewpoints in London and one thing of a rival to the Sky Garden, with its personal views of close by skyscrapers together with the Gherkin and the Walkie Talkie itself.
Located on the highest flooring of 120 Fenchurch Street, a couple of minutes from Leadenhall Market, the carry takes you up to the biggest public rooftop house in the City of London.
The free-to-enter roof backyard has rows of manicured hedges, lovely wildflowers, water options, and a wisteria-covered pergola: good for a sunny day in the town.
For extra nice free views in London with kids, try my high picks
Explore Covent Garden
There’s all the time one thing to see across the Covent Garden Piazza, whether or not you like to browse the market stalls, take pleasure in some road theatre or uncover the newest shows. At Christmas, big baubles grasp from the glass roof, whilst you might additionally discover something from Lego creations to occasional leisure on the large screens.
The road performers audition for the coveted slots right here, and also you may spot something from magic tips to music – it’s free to watch, though in the event you benefit from the present, it’s solely honest to drop one thing in the hat on the finish.
While you’re there, take a stroll over to close by Neal’s Yard for its eye-catchingly vivid buildings.
If you’re in search of the perfect locations to keep close to Covent Garden with kids, try my decide of household resorts in London
Art in Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square could be most well-known for Nelson’s column – do wander previous to spot the lions at its foot – however since 1998, there’s been a succession of artworks on the beforehand empty fourth plinth in the sq..
There’s been every part from an enormous blue cockerel and a bronze skeletal horse to a ship in a bottle, and The End, an enormous swirl of whipped cream with a cherry and a fly on high, whereas a drone transmitted a stay feed of Trafalgar Square.
Antelope by Samson Kambalu is the newest occupant, and a stroll across the sq. is ideal to mix with a (free!) go to to the National Gallery close by.
Scroll down for extra free London museums with kids
Visit Parliament
If you’re a UK resident, there are a number of methods you may get into the Houses of Parliament for free (in any other case there are additionally paid excursions and a digital tour on supply).
You can ebook up to six months in advance by contacting your MP (no matter you consider their politics!), to be a part of a 75-minute official tour by the Palace of Westminster, so you may uncover extra concerning the historical past and traditions of Parliament and its dwelling.
It’s value figuring out that these don’t run day-after-day (and never at weekends)
Alternatively, you too can get a free ticket to see a debate, both in the House of Commons or the House of Lords – value doing in the event you fancy taking in one of many extra fashionable debates.
You’ll want ID, there’s airport-style safety and it’s plan to costume moderately neatly too.
Otherwise you may probability your luck on the day and queue to get in to see the House in session – recess very often coincides with college holidays nevertheless, in the event you’re visiting with kids.
Discover the Roman Mithraeum
There are loads of reminders of the Roman metropolis of Londinium if you realize the place to look together with a part of London Wall close to the previous London Museum web site.
But simply probably the most spectacular is the London Mithraeum. The Roman temple of Mithras was based in the third century by the Walbrook, one among London’s misplaced rivers, earlier than it lay hidden for hundreds of years till 1954.
It was solely in 2017 when the reconstructed temple was reopened in its unique web site, beneath Bloomberg’s European Headquarters at 12 Walbrook, together with interactive shows and knowledge for kids. It’s free to enter however prebooked tickets are advisable.
For extra Roman websites in London to go to with kids, try my put up – together with loads of free choices
Find a Roman amphitheatre
Head over to the City of London and you’ll find one other Roman spotlight at Guildhall Yard – stroll across the open house in entrance of the fifteenth century Guildhall and also you’ll see black stones curving across the yard.
These mark the place the place the Roman amphitheatre as soon as stood. Head into the Guildhall Art Gallery and you may see the stays of the amphitheatre itself, together with a part of the world partitions.
The Art Gallery itself can also be free to go to, and also you’ll usually discover occasions happening in Guildhall Yard or as one of many areas for occasions masking the Square Mile making up the City of London.
Visit Fulham Palace
For centuries, Fulham Palace was the house of the Bishops of London and you may nonetheless see inside the home, now a museum which dates again round 750 years.
As nicely discovering out extra concerning the Bishops who lived right here, and at earlier buildings on the location, there’s an opportunity to study concerning the property which as soon as provided the palace, its royal guests, plus there are free trails for kids to observe.
Outside, the 13-acre gardens embody a pure play space, and there are common occasions and actions throughout college holidays. Tickets to the home and museum are free however want to be prebooked.
The palace sits subsequent to Bishop’s Park, with extra playgrounds, together with water play and an city seaside, plus a rose backyard and sculpture backyard, whereas you too can be a part of the Thames Path right here.
Get outdoor in London
Despite being one of many largest cities in the world, London additionally scores nicely when it comes to inexperienced house, with a sequence of pretty parks. You’ll additionally discover loads of probability to get outdoor in London alongside the Thames and at some specifically designed trails too: all utterly free.
Coram’s Fields
London is a surprisingly inexperienced metropolis with loads of parks to select from however what makes Coram’s Fields distinctive is that this stretch of inexperienced house is barely open to households – except you’re visiting with kids, you’re not allowed in.
Stretching throughout seven acres, there’s tons to uncover inside as nicely: a number of play areas, together with just a few conventional playgrounds with swings, slides and climbing frames, in addition to some interactive choices to make music… or on the very least, a lot of noise!
Coram’s Fields can also be dwelling to just a little wildlife backyard, plus it’s strolling distance from the British Museum so it’s simple to mix the 2 for a free day trip in London.
Here’s what I considered a go to to Coram’s Fields with a preschooler
Kensington Gardens
While Kensington Gardens isn’t the most important of the royal parks, it’s the most effective in the event you’re visiting London with kids.
The largest draw is the Diana Memorial Playground in the park’s north-western nook, with an enormous picket pirate ship as its centrepiece, plus a sensory path, play sculptures and lots extra.
For recommendations on extra of the perfect playgrounds in London, try this put up
It’s additionally home to the statue of Peter Pan, subsequent to the Long Water as you stroll in the direction of Hyde Park, with squirrels, rabbits, mice and fairies climbing up in the direction of Peter himself.
Walking distance from the (free!) South Kensington museums, together with the Natural History Museum and Science Museum, it’s additionally simple to mix with Hyde Park.
Hyde Park
Stretching across the Serpentine, Hyde Park is dwelling to Winter Wonderland in the run-up to Christmas and varied occasions through the summer season. But it’s a stunning place to escape the town at any time of the yr.
For kids, there’s a playground at South Carriage Drive or you may entertain yourselves by getting completely different views of the water as you cross the three bridges over the Diana Memorial fountain. On sizzling days, you may dip your toes in on the edge (in addition to hiring deckchairs by the lake).
Hyde Park has its personal quirky historical past too. For nearly 150 years, Speaker’s Corner has been the place to go to make your voice heard – anybody can share their views (so long as it doesn’t break any legal guidelines) and also you’ll normally discover crowds gathering to pay attention on Sunday mornings.
At the opposite finish of the park, Rotten Row was as soon as the hang-out of highwaymen, in addition to a spot for the cream of society to train their horses in centuries previous. The lengthy sandy bridleway was lined with streetlamps to deter the thieves though you may nonetheless spy folks using horses in the park.
St James’s Park
The oldest of the royal parks, St James’s Park is a stunning inexperienced haven in the event you’re exploring round Westminster – particularly the prospect to spot the park’s most well-known residents, the pelicans.
There have been pelicans residing right here because the seventeenth century they usually even have their very own island in the lake. The official feeding instances happen between 2.30 and 3pm, though you may nonetheless spot the birds swimming and preening all day.
The views from the Blue Bridge throughout the water in the direction of Buckingham Palace, and out to the London Eye in the opposite path, are fantastic too. Keep a watch out for the rose emblems on the bottom marking the Diana Memorial route too.
Regent’s Park
The largest of the royal parks in central London, Regent’s Park is dwelling to London Zoo and an open-air theatre, but additionally loads of points of interest you may take pleasure in for free.
As nicely as getting a peek at just a few of the zoo’s animals from the trail exterior, the park is one thing of a haven for wildlife, particularly birds.
There are additionally 4 separate playgrounds for kids to take pleasure in, or stroll by the formal gardens. At the proper time of yr, Queen Mary’s Gardens has 12,000 roses in bloom.
If you’re feeling energetic, you may rent rowing boats and head out onto the lake – though this does have a charge.
For an extended stroll, you may observe the Regent’s Canal in the direction of Camden from right here, or cross into Primrose Hill for the most effective views in London. It’s additionally a brief stroll from Baker Street and the assorted vacationer points of interest there.
Holland Park
Look out for peacocks in Holland Park, usually to be discovered strutting magnificently across the Kyoto Garden.
The backyard itself was a present from the Japanese metropolis, and with its waterfalls and swimming pools reflecting the cherry blossom in Spring and the flaming Japanese maple timber in autumn, it’s a good looking spot to stroll.
More thrilling for kids is the journey playground, aimed toward youngsters aged 5 to 14, with a zipper wire, climbing frames and wall, and varied different enjoyable choices, alongside with a sandpit space for youthful kids.
For recommendations on extra of the perfect playgrounds in London, try this put up
Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park has the most effective views in London, from the hill of the Royal Observatory, gazing down to the Old Royal Naval faculty and throughout the Thames to the Docklands and the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf and the monetary district.
But that’s just one purpose to discover Greenwich Park with kids. It’s the oldest enclosed royal park and has its personal herd of deer which stay across the Wilderness, in the south-east of the park.
There are gardens galore, some with an extended historical past: wander by the Queen’s orchard, the park’s herb backyard and rose backyard, and stroll the size of London’s longest herbaceous border. There’s additionally a playground right here.
And whereas boat rent isn’t free, you possibly can additionally head out onto the lake between Easter and October, in the shadow of the Queen’s House.
It’s an amazing choice to mix with the National Maritime Museum close by (scroll down for extra free London museums with kids), additionally free to enter, and you may climb up to the Royal Observatory and see the meridian line too.
For extra causes to go to Greenwich with kids, try my put up
Battersea Park
Battersea Park is one other pretty place to stroll, with quite a lot of completely different points of interest in the event you’re visiting London with kids – the bulk have a charge, together with the Go Ape Battersea excessive ropes, Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, pedal and rowboats on the lake, and Putt in the Park mini golf, however there’s nonetheless loads to do with out paying a penny.
Look out for the London Peace Pagoda as you wander, a present to the town from the founding father of the Japanese Buddhist motion in 1984. The park additionally stretches alongside the sting of the Thames so that you get the river views and an opportunity to stare throughout to the Chelsea Embankment.
Richmond Park
The largest of the royal parks, Richmond Park stretches for an astonishing 2,500 acres and can also be a nature reserve.
Most well-known for its herds of untamed deer, each purple and fallow deer, you’ve bought probability of recognizing them as you wander – the Tamsin Trail, alongside the sting of the park is good for households, because it’s nearly car-free, and is an effective path to observe to get just a few glimpses.
It’s essential to do not forget that they’re wild animals although, so don’t strive to feed them and all the time maintain at the least 50m away, particularly through the rutting season (from September to November) and through May to July when fawns are born.
Don’t miss the beautiful Isabella Plantation gardens, with pretty winding paths previous the flowers and water, or on a transparent day, climb King Henry’s Mound and look throughout in the direction of St Paul’s Cathedral greater than 10 miles away. It’s a protected view, so nothing is allowed to be constructed in the sightline.
For extra of the perfect views in London with kids, try my high picks
Walk the South Bank
There’s all the time one thing new to uncover alongside London’s South Bank, with occasions and festivals often happening, new paintings usually showing, road artwork, plus a string of historic websites and main points of interest to see.
The Thames is the center of the town, so a stroll alongside the river is all the time the most effective things to do in London with kids. One of my favorite stretches runs from Westminster Bridge to Southwark Bridge, with views to landmarks just like the Houses of Parliament and St Paul’s, in addition to strolling previous the London Eye, the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe theatre.
For extra things to do on the South Bank with kids, try my ideas
Keep going just a little additional to Bankside and you may see the Golden Hinde, a recreation of the ship in which Sir Francis Drake circumnavigated the globe, then on in the direction of the Tower of London and Tower Bridge.
Don’t miss the little particulars too, from the ornamental lampposts to the fountains which create the Appearing Rooms (take spare garments!) and an entire string of creative touches. These change consistently, however try this stroll alongside the South Bank for a number of the highlights to look out for.
The Imagine Children’s Festival additionally takes place on the South Bank, normally in February, working for 12 days and aimed toward kids aged up to 11, all utterly free.
For one other enjoyable, low cost strolling tour of London (though not utterly free), get 10% off the treasure hunts from Treasure Map trails utilizing code MUMMYTRAVELS
Explore Little Venice
If you’re in search of waterfront walks, there’s extra than simply the Thames to discover, with loads of choices alongside the town’s canals.
The Regent’s Canal passes from Camden, previous Regent’s Park and London Zoo, however the most effective areas to wander round is picturesque Little Venice with its houseboats moored alongside the banks or cruising down the nonetheless water… not to point out a floating artwork gallery and puppet theatre,
Thought to have been given its identify by poet Robert Browning, it’s a splendidly peaceable spot. The nearest tube is Warwick Avenue however you too can stroll alongside to Paddington Basin, with its Floating Pocket Park (mini inexperienced areas which bob on the water).
Head there at noon on Wednesdays and Fridays, and you may see the Fan Bridge being lifted as nicely.
Check out a playground
If you go to nearly any one among London’s parks, you’ll discover a playground to entertain your kids – from the best-known just like the Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens to Holland Park’s journey playground.
But there are a string of others in case your kids want a quick break from sightseeing. A stone’s throw from the London Eye, Jubilee Park & Garden has its personal playground, or Victoria Park in east London has each a playground and a splash park, whereas in the event you’re out by the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Tumbling Bay playground has sand, wobbly bridges, swimming pools and extra to play in.
For someplace actually particular, head to Paddington Recreation Ground playground, aka Paddington Rec close to Maida Vale tube – designed for all ages and skills, it’s meant to encourage inventive play… and also you’ll discover a steamliner, prepare, tunnel, musical devices, a wooden forest play space among the many timber, plus the spotlight of pastel colored playhouses which appear to be terraced homes.
For my full set of the perfect playgrounds in London, try this put up
Splash in a fountain
When London basks in one among its occasional heatwaves, there’s nowhere higher to be than the fountains which have began popping up throughout the town – come ready with spare garments!
As nicely because the Appearing Rooms on the South Bank (scroll up for extra particulars), a number of the greatest are at Granary Square close to Kings Cross. Made up of 1,080 separate jets, they dance in patterns, as kids splash excitedly amongst them.
You may also discover extra fountains in the courtyard of Somerset House off the Strand, in addition to The Riverside at More London close to Tower Bridge, 200 jets organized in traces which spring up to catch the unwary.
Spot the Crystal Palace dinosaurs
A brief prepare journey from central London lies one among London’s most uncommon points of interest – and one which, aside from the fare to get there, you may take pleasure in completely for free.
Created again in 1854, the 30 life-size fashions are all of extinct animals, together with dinosaurs, based mostly on the perfect scientific data of the time – not all of which is sort of right.
Now Grade I listed, they’ve been restored greater than as soon as and in the event that they don’t look fairly as you may count on a dinosaur to, they’re nonetheless nicely value seeing. You can discover them in the south east facet of Crystal Palace Park, which can also be dwelling to one of many nation’s largest mazes, one other Victorian design.
For extra uncommon things to do in London with kids, try my decide of the perfect
Explore Hampstead Heath
This large stretch of open heathland stretches from Hampstead to Highgate, and is dwelling to the very best level in London – Parliament Hill. The view right here is protected, and you may gaze down onto St Paul’s and the Palace of Westminster, in addition to a number of the metropolis’s tallest buildings.
The woodland and meadows have impressed writers and artists, so it’s a stunning place to amble: you’ll additionally discover playgrounds on the southern edge. There are three bathing ponds in the east too, though there’s a cost to use these (and also you want to prebook).
If you’re already an English Heritage member, you may go to Kenwood House for free, with its artwork assortment contained in the grand Georgian constructing, household actions and extra grounds to discover.
See Walthamstow Wetlands
Around quarter-hour from central London, the Walthamstow Wetlands are the most recent and largest wetlands in the town – and in contrast to the earlier title holder, the WWT London Wetlands Centre at Barnes, they’re free to go to.
There are common family-friendly actions, or you may merely observe the 13 miles of paths by the character reserve, holding a watch out for wildlife and having fun with the peace as you wander the paths across the reservoirs… whereas pondering the thought that these provide ingesting water for 3.5 million folks day-after-day.
Tottenham Hale tube is without doubt one of the best to get to, on the Victoria line from Oxford Circus and King’s Cross, then lower than 10 minutes’ stroll to attain the wetlands themselves.
For one other free different that’s extra central, the newly reopened Camley Street Natural Park sits between King’s Cross and St Pancras, with wetland, woodland and grassland habitats in the 1 hectare reserve
Free museums in London
Some of London’s best-known museums are famously free to enter, and there’s a lot to uncover inside that it’s simple to spend a day wanting round – or simply pop in for an hour with out worrying about pricy entrance charges.
Prebooking tickets to London’s free museums is advisable, particularly throughout college holidays (though some walk-up tickets are sometimes obtainable), however there’s nonetheless no cost except you’re additionally visiting one of many particular exhibitions.
For extra concepts on things to do in London with toddlers and preschoolers, try this put up
Natural History Museum
One of the perfect free museums in London with a toddler – though older kids will adore it right here too – the well-known dinosaurs and blue whale skeleton hanging in the doorway corridor are simply the beginning of what you may see on the Natural History Museum.
Older kids will love the earth sciences part, together with a simulated earthquake, after being whisked upstairs by an escalator rising in the direction of dramatic rumbles and purple gentle.
Younger ones will benefit from the mammals part, and the prospect to see Andy’s clock in the event that they’re followers of CBeebies exhibits Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures and Andy’s Prehistoric Adventures. You can actually have a little break in the Wildlife Garden as nicely.
It’s unsurprisingly fashionable, so the free tickets for weekends and faculty holidays do get snapped up quick – don’t go away it too late to ebook.
For my recommendations on visiting the Natural History Museum with kids, click on right here
Science Museum
A brief stroll from the Natural History Museum, you possibly can even squeeze each these nice free London museums into sooner or later – though you received’t be wanting things to see at both.
And aside from the interactive reveals of Wonderlab, which does have a reserving charge, there’s no cost to go to the Science Museum.
Toddlers and youthful kids will love The Garden, with a lot of possibilities to get hands-on, enjoying with water, making music, sensory shows and big blocks. The Pattern Pod is one other nice one for preschoolers and first college age too.
And that’s earlier than you try the house gallery, in addition to galleries on communications and knowledge, plus an outline of 250 years of scientific and technological advances which have reworked our on a regular basis life.
Prebooking tickets is advisable and also you’re suggested to permit at the least two hours for a go to.
For my recommendations on visiting the Science Museum with kids, click on right here.
The British Museum
With round 80,000 objects on show on the British Museum (from its greater assortment of eight million or so), it’s additionally an amazing place to go to with kids.
The mummies and the Ancient Egypt galleries are among the many hottest (and normally the busiest) however are by no means lower than fascinating. But with trails designed for age three upwards (together with two for preschoolers centered on colors and counting), it’s simple to carry the artefacts to life.
You can uncover Anglo Saxon treasure, video games which date again hundreds of years, gods, jewels, on a regular basis objects and distinctive finds, not to point out Romans, Greeks, Vikings and an enormous quantity extra.
Only the particular exhibitions have a cost, and in the event you’re visiting with kids aged beneath 5, you need to be in a position to skip the queue on the entrance – prebooking tickets is advisable and trails could be downloaded in advance.
For my recommendations on visiting the British Museum with kids, click on right here.
The London Museum
There’s nowhere higher to uncover extra concerning the metropolis you’re visiting than this free museum – the London Museum traces the capital’s historical past from the times when hippos roamed in what’s now Trafalgar Square.
EDIT: The museum is now quickly closed till reopening in its new web site at Smithfield in 2026, though the London Museum Docklands stays open (see beneath for extra particulars)
It’s an amazing one for varsity age youngsters, together with nice galleries on Roman London, the Anglo Saxons, the plague and Great Fire of London, in addition to extra fashionable instances. You may also decide up trails for kids to observe as they discover.
It additionally tends to be barely quieter than the South Kensington museums at weekends, ideally suited in the event you’re attempting to escape the crowds with kids in London.
Horniman Museum
This pretty museum is exterior central London however is simple to attain from London Bridge, and significantly enjoyable with youthful kids.
With a lot of galleries on completely different themes, the Horniman is sweet for little consideration spans as you may wander from pure historical past to world music and tradition, to see butterflies and wander the grounds exterior (with extra animals to spot there too).
The Nature Base offers kids an opportunity to get fingers on, together with stroking a stuffed fox and badger, whereas older ones can study extra about conservation too.
The momentary exhibitions do have a small cost, as does the small aquarium, however in any other case it’s free to enter. Save a while to go to the Horniman Triangle playground close by, with sandpits and climbing webs among the many play tools.
Read extra about my go to to the Horniman museum with kids right here.
Victoria & Albert Museum
While households flock to the opposite South Kensington museums, the Victoria & Albert Museum (or V&A) is one which regularly will get neglected with kids.
But the world’s largest museum of ornamental and utilized arts has some incredible household actions to strive, even for the youngest guests, that are nice for bringing the gathering to life – its sister museum, the Young V&A in Bethnal Green, is one other nice free choice in the event you’re venturing out of the centre.
With the costumes from the Lion King, eye-catchingly dramatic court docket attire, and a really surprising automaton of a tiger consuming a person, in addition to statues, sculptures and extra, it’s a wonderful treasure trove to discover with kids.
There are additionally free household occasions throughout college holidays and a few weekends, in addition to trails to observe (obtain earlier than you come or decide up whenever you arrive – the household backpacks are presently unavailable although).
For my recommendations on visiting the V&A with kids, click on right here
The Young V&A
The sister museum to the V&A in South Kensington, the previous London Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Green reopened in summer season 2023 with a brand new look and a brand new identify – the Young V&A.
With its shows of toys and video games, it has been a household favorite for years (not least for the nostalgia worth), and the much-loved highlights are additionally again – look out for one of many unique Paddington Bear toys.
However whereas the constructing is identical grand corridor (generally known as the Town Square), kids have been concerned in arising with the redesigned look, now themed round three galleries: Play, Imagine and Design.
Best of all there are many possibilities to get fingers on, whether or not that’s creating your individual board recreation, listening to storytelling, or hitting the sandpit, in addition to new objects occurring show, with a complete of two,000 objects to take pleasure in.
National Maritime Museum
One of the Royal Museums Greenwich, this free museum traces Britain’s maritime historical past over the centuries, with reveals together with the coat Nelson was carrying when he died.
You may also see mannequin ships and maps, in addition to artworks, with tales of piracy and journey, Polar exploration and voyage by the Pacific – the Ahoy gallery is the perfect spot for households with youthful kids, or try the interactive Sea Things gallery.
Better for older kids than toddlers, though there are household trails and an amazing big map in the center of the National Maritime Museum to play on. Prebooking tickets is advisable.
For extra concepts of things to do in Greenwich with kids, click on right here.
Tate Modern
Set in a transformed energy station on London’s Bankside, Tate Modern is unquestionably not your common artwork gallery – kids are inspired to speak (and there’s loads of house to run round in the turbine corridor) plus you’ll discover a lot of simple methods even for youthful ones to take pleasure in what they see together with steered video games.
The Tate Modern additionally has steered routes for households to observe by the collections, which embody huge names from the twentieth century, akin to Matisse, alongside with works from the previous decade on show.
It’s a straightforward one to add in to a stroll alongside the South Bank as nicely (scroll up for extra particulars).
National Gallery
With nicely over 2,000 works, you may see a number of the biggest artwork in the world on the National Gallery – and also you don’t want to have an in-depth grasp of artwork historical past to take pleasure in wanting on the collections.
See how most of the 30 highlights you possibly can discover by yourself artwork treasure hunt. And for inventive kids, don’t go with out packing a pad and a few colouring pencils – you’ll spot loads of different households stopping to create their very own artwork alongside the best way.
There are additionally household actions, particularly throughout college holidays, plus loads of concepts of artwork actions for kids at dwelling in the event that they’re impressed by a go to. You may also watch movies of curators telling a number of the tales behind the work (aimed for aged 8+) earlier than you go to.
London Museum Docklands
The sister web site of the London Museum, the London Museum Docklands sits in a transformed warehouse on West India Quay, as soon as the center of London’s thriving docks business, and it’s the right place to uncover this facet of the capital.
With galleries set out in chronological order, you may journey from late Tudor instances when the river site visitors moved east from the wharves across the Tower of London proper by to the trendy day, when London’s monetary district took over the world.
There are shows on slavery, you may stroll by a recreation of Sailortown and look inside an air raid shelter, in addition to studying extra concerning the Great Stink and the Great Dock Strike. There are intelligent interactives which imply you needn’t contact the display screen both.
Prebooking tickets is advisable however entry is free, together with to a number of the momentary exhibitions though there’s a small cost for the Mudlarks play house (which have to be prebooked). Otherwise that is one museum which is best with main school-aged youngsters and older than with preschoolers and toddlers.
Read extra about my go to to the London Museum Docklands with kids right here.
Imperial War Museum
Founded through the First World War, the galleries on the Imperial War Museum deal with the experiences of individuals affected by struggle, so whilst you’ll additionally get to see some very giant weapons, planes hanging from the ceiling and collections of medals, there’s extra emphasis on particular person tales.
The latest galleries embody one masking the Second World War, and the museum runs common household occasions throughout college holidays – one of many latest ones was based mostly round spies and espionage.
There is a separate exhibition on the Holocaust as nicely, which is barely advisable for kids aged 14+.
The closest tube station is Lambeth North, though you may stroll it from Waterloo in lower than quarter-hour.
RAF London
The Royal Air Force Museum in Colindale, north London tells the story of the RAF over its first 100 years, from the founding in 1918.
Inside the hangars, you may see an entire string of plane from over time, in addition to shows of every part from logbooks and hidden maps to survival rations, plus different automobiles.
Kids can strive on an RAF uniform or take a look at their very own response instances, alongside with sensory areas to contact the fashions and uncover some RAF smells and sounds, plus the prospect for the littlest ones to climb right into a miniature aircraft.
Tickets are free however prebooking is suggested. You may also prebook automotive parking in advance in the event you don’t need to journey by tube, however this does have a cost.
More free things to do in London with kids
Whether you fancy seeing your favorite ebook character, discovering the town’s artwork or recognizing animals, there are loads extra concepts of free things to do with kids in London.
See the Paddington statues
For followers of Paddington Bear (and who isn’t?), you may’t miss a go to to Paddington Station, the place the furry hero of the books was first discovered by the Browns and obtained his identify – the most effective locations to discover Paddington in London.
The lifesize bronze statue with the label asking folks to take care of this bear is again in its typical dwelling by Platform 1, after a quick stint close to the Praed Street entrance, between Platforms 9 and 10. Keep a watch out for a plaque marking his appearances on the web page and on display screen too.
You may also discover the Paddington bench inside the station, the place kids can sit subsequent to him and pose for photographs.
The station can also be the start line for the Pawprint Trail – three trails, in truth, every with one of many Paddington statues from the 2014 assortment dotted across the metropolis.
One route takes you alongside the canal to Little Venice and past, one other to Paddington Basin, so they’re good choices to mix with both of those (scroll up for extra particulars) in addition to a go to to Paddington Rec. The third leads in the path of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.
For a much less well-known statue of Paddington, head to St Mary’s Churchyard at close by Paddington Green, the place you’ll discover him commemorated with his creator Michael Bond, one of many Sustrans portrait benches dotted across the nation – right here alongside two different locals, nurse Mary Seacole and mathematician and codebreaker Alan Turing.
You don’t have to go away central London to discover him both: there’s additionally a statue of Paddington with his well-known marmalade sandwiches in Leicester Square.
For extra things to do round Leicester Square with kids, try my high picks
Stroll in Harry Potter’s footsteps
Harry Potter followers can discover a string of web sites from the books and flicks throughout the capital, together with an opportunity to see the designs which introduced the wizarding world to life, in addition to areas which pop up in the movies.
Start at King’s Cross: Platform 9 ¾ was really filmed between platforms 4 and 5, however there’s an opportunity to pose with a baggage trolley disappearing by the wall on the station concourse.
There’s an expert photographer taking photographs, full with the headscarf of whichever home you select (normally from 9am to 9pm) and an opportunity to purchase these in the store subsequent door, however there’s no obligation and you too can take your individual photographs for free.
There’s normally a queue, so it’s greatest to flip up early or be prepared to wait (except you flip up after the store has shut with your individual digicam and props).
You may also stroll by Leadenhall Market, which doubled as Diagon Alley in the primary film, and spot the blue door to the optician’s in Bull’s Head Passage which grew to become the doorway to the Leaky Cauldron. Or be careful for Death Eaters as you stroll throughout the Millennium Bridge between Tate Modern and St Paul’s.
Fans may also go to the House of MinaLima – graphic design duo Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima created every part from the Marauder’s Map to packets of Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans. It’s free to go searching their gallery at Wardour Street (previously on Greek Street) in the event you can resist shopping for a memento.
For extra Harry Potter areas in London, try this put up
Spot road artwork
London’s road artwork scene is consistently altering, so it’s potential to return time and again to see one thing new – however in addition to making particular visits to see the newest creations, it’s simple to see a number of the works throughout the capital as you wander previous different points of interest.
Stroll alongside the South Bank and you may see road artwork by Stik at Hungerford Bridge, not removed from the London Eye, in addition to a technicolour Shakespeare close to the Clink tunnel past the Globe, and extra in the Leake Street tunnel close to Waterloo – only for starters.
Otherwise, components of East London – particularly Shoreditch and Hackney – are good areas to strive. Wander alongside Brick Lane and the roads close by, or in the event you’re shut to Liverpool Street and Spitalfields, there’s road artwork to be discovered right here too.
Camden can also be value a go to, whereas Walthamstow is making a reputation for its road artwork too – observe the Wood Street Walls maps.
For extra things to do in Camden with kids, try my high picks
And the London Mural Festival noticed greater than 100 artistic endeavors throughout the capital in September 2024 – a lot of which nonetheless stay.
Wander round God’s Own Junkyard
If you’re visiting Walthamstow on the weekend (or on Fridays), don’t go dwelling and not using a cease at God’s Own Junkyard, with its piles of neon indicators.
Some are former movie props, however you’ll discover every kind of brightly fantastic creations on show – and heaped up in opposition to the partitions – together with retro indicators, non secular statues, disco paraphernalia, all free to wander round.
Better with teenagers and older kids (or you might have considered trying to distract youthful kids from just a few of the psychedelic delights on show).
Walk The Line
The Line is London’s first public artwork stroll, a good way to combine the prospect to get outdoor with having fun with artwork, heritage and nature.
The complete factor is meant to take round 2 ½ hours to stroll, working between the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and The O2, alongside a few of east London’s waterways and following the road of the Greenwich Meridian.
There are half a dozen artworks on the North Greenwich peninsula alone, close to The O2, and you possibly can additionally hop on the tube in the event you’d like to see every one however your kids don’t fancy doing your complete route on foot – particularly as you may normally rely on getting misplaced at the least as soon as alongside the best way.
Visit a metropolis farm
If you’re visiting London with kids who love animals, add one of many many metropolis farms to your record, with a string of web sites dotted across the capital.
Freightliners City Farm (between Caledonian Road tube and Highbury & Islington) has some uncommon breeds, as does Spitalfields City Farm.
At Vauxhall City Farm, you’ll discover alpacas alongside farmyard animals and even a few cats, whereas there are llamas at Mudchute. Hackney City Farm has some smaller fluffy inhabitants together with rabbits and guinea pigs in addition to bigger creatures too.
Some of the farms have restricted opening hours, so all the time test instantly for the newest data.
Go to Golders Hill Zoo
If you’re in search of one thing extra unique than home animals, how a few free zoo in London?
Golders Hill Zoo is way smaller than London Zoo (and even Battersea Park Children’s Zoo) however nonetheless has some distinctly uncommon animals residing in its dwelling in Golders Hill Park (technically a part of Hampstead Heath, in London’s Golders Green) – all registered with BIAZA, the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Don’t count on lions or tigers however you may spot ring-tailed lemurs and coatis, in addition to kookaburras and eagle owls, plus a herd of deer. It’s pretty in the event you’re in search of a free day trip in north London with youthful kids.
Here’s what we considered a go to to Golders Hill Zoo with a toddler
Explore a market
London is legendary for its markets, and whereas they’re solely free in the event you’re strong-willed sufficient not to purchase a memento or two, they’re an amazing expertise whilst you’re visiting the capital.
Portobello market is the world’s largest vintage market, though you’ll discover vogue, classic and extra on the stalls – Saturday is the primary day to go to right here, and hipster favorite Broadway market in Hackney.
Spitalfields Market is one among London’s oldest, and is now open day-after-day, as is Camden market, with some nice meals and a multicultural mixture of homewares, vogue and jewelry. Greenwich market is one other each day choice, with antiques, vogue and meals.
For meals, it’s laborious to beat Borough Market, though solely the extraordinarily strong-willed can resist shopping for one thing off the stalls promoting each produce and really tempting dishes right here.
If you’re visiting in November or December, try the town’s greatest Christmas markets with kids too
Spy well-known names in a cemetery
The concept of going for a stroll in a cemetery may appear an odd one, nevertheless it’s really a captivating day trip with kids in London – and unnecessary to say, normally free – particularly in the event you go to one of many Magnificent Seven, the ring of seven graveyards created largely in the Victorian age and impressed by Pere Lachaise in Paris.
Brompton Cemetery has an uncommon attraction for youthful youngsters – Beatrix Potter used to stay close by and a few names on the tombstones apparently impressed characters in her tales: maintain a watch out for Peter Rabbett, Jeremiah Fisher, Mr Nutkins, Mr Brock and Mr McGregor as you go to.
You’ll additionally discover Suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst, Victorian adventuress Elizabeth Le Blond and pioneering doctor Dr John Snow, plus this cemetery has made numerous appearances in movies, together with Bond film Goldeneye and Sherlock Holmes.
Kensal Green is London’s largest and oldest public cemetery, with big mausoleums in addition to the grave of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, plus tightrope walker Charles Blondin, greatest recognized for crossing the Niagara Gorge on a tightrope.
Bunhill Fields is a Nonconformist burial floor which dates again to the 1660s, with the graves of writers, artists, intellectuals and radicals, together with John Bunyan, Daniel Defoe and William Blake.
The best-known of the cemeteries, Highgate, isn’t free (except you’re a grave proprietor), though the entry cost is minimal (from £4.50 for an grownup ticket to the East Cemetery, 50p for kids) and a few of its catacombs are Grade II listed. It’s the ultimate resting place of Karl Marx, George Eliot and poet Christina Rossetti. Archway tube is the closest, reasonably than Highgate itself.
To purchase a PDF model of this put up to maintain, click on right here to go to my on-line retailer – priced £1.99. And for extra concepts on how to lower your expenses on days out in London with kids, try my high ideas
*First revealed 2020, final up to date 2024*
PIN FOR LATER: FREE THINGS TO DO IN LONDON WITH KIDS
Tower of London/Trafalgar Square/Coram’s Fields/St James’s Park/Greenwich Park/Natural History Museum/Horniman museum/V&A/National Gallery/Museum of London Docklands/Paddington bench/Shakespeare road artwork/Borough market photos copyright MummyTravels, altering of the guard courtesy Adobe Stock, all different photos courtesy of Depositphotos
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