Looking for ways to keep the kids happy while you explore London? You’re not alone. The city is packed with parks, museums, and hidden spots that won’t break the bank. Below you’ll find simple ideas you can try today, whether you have a whole day or just a couple of hours.
Start with a stroll in one of London’s green spaces. Hyde Park offers a playground, a large open field for a ball game, and the Serpentine where you can rent a rowboat for a quick splash. If you’re near the city centre, St James’s Park lets kids watch ducks and feed the birds – just remember the rules about feeding.
For a more active day, head to Richmond Park. It’s a bit farther out, but the open meadows and free‑roaming deer make it feel like a mini‑safari. Pack a picnic, bring a ball, and let the kids run wild. The park also has designated cycling routes if you want to bring bikes.
When the weather turns rainy, London’s many indoor playgrounds step in. KidZania in Westfield gives children a chance to try out real‑world jobs in a safe, role‑play setting. It’s educational and a lot of fun, especially for older kids who love pretending to be adults.
Museums aren’t just for adults. The Natural History Museum has an entire dinosaur zone that kids can explore hands‑on. The Science Museum offers interactive galleries where you can make a tornado in a bottle or test your balance on a moving platform.
If you prefer something quieter, the London Transport Museum in Covent Garden lets kids climb into vintage buses and trains. They love seeing the old red double‑decker buses up close, and the museum often runs workshops for kids to design their own ticket machines.
For a quick cultural fix, pop into the V&A Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Green. The collection includes historic toys, games, and dress‑up areas where children can role‑play different eras. It’s a great way to spark curiosity about how kids lived long before smartphones.
Don’t forget the simple pleasure of a good story time. Many libraries across London, like the Southbank Centre Library, host free storytelling sessions on weekends. Grab a snack, settle into a cozy corner, and let the librarian transport the kids to another world.
Mixing these ideas with your own schedule is easy. Pick one outdoor spot in the morning, then head to a museum for lunch and a few hours of learning. Finish the day with a treat at a nearby ice‑cream shop – you’ll find dozens of family‑friendly cafés throughout the city.
Finally, keep an eye on local event calendars. London often runs free festivals, street performances, and pop‑up workshops that are perfect for families. A quick search on the city’s official website can reveal a kid‑friendly event happening near you this weekend.
With so many options, you’ll never run out of things to do with the kids in London. Try a new park, explore a museum, or join a storytelling hour – the city is ready for your next family adventure.
Looking for creative things to do with your family right in London? This guide offers real-world, London-specific tips for making DIY projects and crafts at home. Find fun ideas that use supplies you can pick up from places like Hobbycraft Stratford or Borough Market. There are activities for all ages, perfect for rainy days or school holidays. Discover new ways to bond with your family without leaving your living room.
