London might not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a family holiday – however, it should be. The short answer to the big question is: yes, London is absolutely great with kids.
In fact, the city offers an impressive mix of interactive museums, green parks, iconic sights and well-organised attractions that work just as well for children as they do for adults.
In this guide, I’m sharing my best tips, practical advice and tried-and-tested activities to help you plan a relaxed and memorable London with kids trip.
Is London a good destination for a family trip?
London is one of the most versatile cities in Europe – and for this reason, it works so well for families. History, culture, parks and entertainment come together in a way that feels exciting but manageable.
Children love:
- interactive museums
- large green parks with playgrounds
- iconic sights they recognise from books and films
Parents appreciate:
- excellent public transport
- clear signage and organisation
- plenty of options to slow the pace when needed
For families planning London with kids, this mix of attractions and green spaces makes sightseeing surprisingly relaxed. Overall, a family holiday in London is exciting, varied – and very doable.
Best time to visit London with kids
Generally speaking, the best months for London with kids are May to September, when the weather is mild and outdoor breaks are easier. The weather is usually mild to warm, parks are green and lively, and many attractions extend their opening hours.
- Spring (March–May): fewer crowds, blooming parks, pleasant temperatures
- Summer (June–August): festivals, open-air events, longer days
- Early autumn (September–October): still mild, calmer than peak summer
That said, London works year-round, but these months make outdoor breaks much easier with children.
How many days do you need in London with kids?
Based on my experience, 4 to 5 days works best when visiting London with kids. This gives you enough time to see the highlights without rushing – and still leaves room for breaks.
As a result, if you have more time, you can easily add:
- extra museum visits
- park days
- child-friendly day trips
More days also mean higher daily expenses – especially when travelling as a family. If you want a realistic overview of what London actually costs, this guide helps you plan without surprises: How expensive is London? A realistic cost breakdown.
Where to stay in London with kids
For this reason, choosing the right area makes a huge difference when travelling to London with kids. Family-friendly neighbourhoods with good transport connections include:
- Kensington
- Covent Garden
- Richmond
Accommodation types that work especially well for families:
- hotels with family rooms
- serviced apartments
- aparthotels with kitchenettes
Well-proven options include:
A relaxed family trip often depends on the accommodation. Here’s a full guide with honest recommendations: Family-Friendly Hotels in London – Where to Stay with Kids (follows)
Practical tip: A kitchenette and separate sleeping areas make everyday life with kids noticeably easier.
Family rooms in London are limited and often sell out early.
Best things to do in London with kids
London offers an impressive range of attractions that genuinely work for families. You can mix classic sights with playful experiences and indoor activities. These attractions are especially well suited for London with kids, combining fun, learning and manageable pacing.
Hamleys
One of the oldest and largest toy stores in the world. Seven floors, interactive demos and seasonal events make this a guaranteed highlight.
Honest warning: Plan enough time – and maybe a small toy budget. Leaving isn’t easy.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
A must for Harry Potter fans of all ages. Original sets, props and behind-the-scenes insights make this one of the most memorable family experiences near London.
Tickets should be booked well in advance, especially during school holidays.
London Eye
Seeing London from above is exciting for kids and adults alike. The slow rotation makes it suitable even for younger children.
Tip: Late afternoon offers the best light – weather permitting.
Shrek’s Adventure! London
An interactive indoor attraction with themed rooms, live actors and 4D effects. Especially popular with children aged 6–12. Time slots should be reserved in advance.
Paddington Bear Experience
A charming, interactive experience that brings Paddington’s world to life. Kids become part of the story – from marmalade moments to playful puzzles. A lovely option if you’re looking for something a bit different.
Tower of London
Knights, kings and crown jewels – this is history that actually excites children. The Crown Jewels are a guaranteed wow-moment. This is one of London’s most popular sights with children.
Tower Bridge
Walking across the glass floor and watching boats pass underneath is thrilling for kids (and adults).
Thames River Cruises
Boat trips on the Thames are a relaxed way to explore the city and give tired legs a break. Options range from sightseeing cruises to fast rides towards Greenwich.
Covent Garden
Street performers, colourful shops and family-friendly cafés make this area a great stop. Children love watching jugglers and musicians.
Madame Tussauds London
Meet superheroes, movie stars and sports legends. The Marvel and Star Wars areas are especially popular with older kids and teens.
Natural History Museum
Dinosaurs, whales and volcanoes – this museum is a must for families. Entry is free, though some special exhibitions require tickets.
Science Museum
Hands-on exhibits, space travel and the interactive Wonderlab make science fun for all ages – even for very young children.
For London with kids, this mix of indoor and outdoor attractions keeps days varied without feeling overwhelming.
Planning London with kids often means booking key attractions ahead of time.
To save time and avoid queues, you can find family-friendly tickets and tours here:
Parks & playgrounds in London
London’s parks are perfect for balance and downtime:
- Hyde Park
- Regent’s Park
- Diana Memorial Playground (Kensington Gardens)
They’re ideal for letting kids run free between sightseeing stops.
Getting around London with kids
In practice, public transport in London is very family-friendly.
- Oyster Card or contactless payment is easiest
- Children under 11 travel free on public transport
- Use wider gates at stations for strollers
When travelling London with kids, easy transport makes a noticeable difference to the daily pace. At the same time, river boats are a relaxed alternative to the Tube, especially on busy days.
Hop-on hop-off buses are also a great option for families – less walking, more overview, and easy breaks.
Final thoughts: Is London worth visiting with kids?
In short, absolutely – London is an excellent city for a family holiday. It combines education, fun, green spaces and world-famous sights in a way that works for all ages.
Ultimately, with a bit of planning, realistic pacing and the right mix of activities, London becomes a destination where kids are excited – and parents can actually relax.
Have you already experienced London with kids, or are you planning your first family trip? Feel free to share your experience in the comments.
If you’re planning more than just one aspect of your trip, you’ll find all my London tips collected in one place here: London Travel Guide – routes, costs, hotels & practical tips