London with Kids Travel Guide

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling to London with Children

Visiting London with kids can be an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, education, and fun! From iconic landmarks to interactive museums, there’s something for every age group. This guide will help you navigate kid-friendly attractions, family accommodation, dining options, and practical tips for a smooth trip.

Kid-Friendly Attractions

For Toddlers and Preschoolers (Ages 1-5)

London Zoo: Home to over 750 species of animals, the zoo features a petting area and a playground. Tickets start at £27 for adults and £13.50 for children.
Diana Memorial Playground: Located in Kensington Gardens, this playground is inspired by the story of Peter Pan, featuring a pirate ship, tepees, and sensory trails. Admission is free.
Natural History Museum: The dinosaur exhibit captivates young minds. The museum is free, though some special exhibits may charge an entry fee.

For School Age Kids (Ages 6-12)

Science Museum: Interactive exhibits like the Wonderlab and IMAX theatre are sure to engage curious minds. Admission is free but charges apply for some experiences.
Shrek’s Adventure! London: A fun, immersive experience where kids can meet their favorite characters. Tickets are around £25 for children.
The London Eye: Offering spectacular views of the city, it’s a thrilling ride for older kids. Tickets start at £27 for adults and £22 for children.

For Teens (Ages 13+)

Warner Bros. Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter: A must-see for fans. Tickets are about £47 per person and must be booked in advance.
The O2 Arena: Check their schedule for concerts or events that might interest teens.
Sky Garden: Offering stunning views of London, the Sky Garden is free to enter but requires advance booking.

Family Hotels and Facilities

Recommended Family Hotels

The Royal Horseguards Hotel
- Location: Near the Embankment.
- Facilities: Family rooms, babysitting services, and a restaurant with children’s menu.
- Price: Starting from £200 per night.
Novotel London Waterloo
- Location: Close to the London Eye.
- Facilities: Play area, game consoles in the lobby, and an indoor pool.
- Price: Starting from £150 per night.
The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences
- Location: Near Buckingham Palace.
- Facilities: Family suites, kids’ club, and a restaurant with a children’s menu.
- Price: Starting from £290 per night.

Family-Friendly Dining Options

Rainforest Café: Located near Piccadilly Circus, this themed restaurant offers a kids’ menu and high chairs.
PizzaExpress: With locations throughout London, they provide a children’s menu and fun activities for kids.
The Diner: A casual American diner experience with a kids’ menu and plenty of high chairs available.

Restroom Locations

Restrooms can be found in most attractions, parks, and public areas. For convenience, look for:

Major Attractions: Most have family restrooms available.
Shopping Malls: Places like Westfield and Covent Garden have clean facilities.
Public Parks: Restrooms are available at places like Hyde Park and Regent’s Park.

Pediatricians and Hospitals

St Thomas’ Hospital: Near the London Eye, this hospital provides excellent pediatric care.
The Portland Hospital: A private hospital specializing in children’s health.
Walk-in Centers: NHS walk-in centers can be found throughout the city for minor injuries and illnesses.

Childproofing Tips

Stay Alert: Keep an eye on your kids, especially in crowded places.
Use Wristbands: Write your contact information on wristbands for younger children.
Plan Your Route: Use maps to avoid crossing busy roads without designated crossings.

Managing Kids in Crowds

Establish a Meeting Point: In case someone gets lost, choose a landmark to regroup.
Use Strollers or Carrier: For toddlers, strollers are helpful. For older children, consider a carrier for tired legs.
Take Breaks: Schedule regular breaks to avoid overwhelming your kids.

Activity Suggestions and Rest Time Strategies

Toddlers

Activity: Visit parks like Green Park or St. James’s Park for playtime.
Rest Time: Return to the hotel for naps in the afternoon.

Preschoolers

Activity: Spend mornings at the London Aquarium or the Children’s Museum.
Rest Time: Have a light lunch followed by rest time at the hotel.

School Age Kids

Activity: Explore the British Museum, then head to Covent Garden for street performances.
Rest Time: After lunch, visit a nearby café for downtime.

Teens

Activity: Take a day trip to nearby attractions like Windsor Castle.
Rest Time: Encourage downtime with movies in the hotel or a visit to a local park.

Packing Essentials for Traveling with Kids

Comfort Items: Bring a travel pillow or blanket for longer journeys.
Snacks: Keep a variety of snacks handy, such as granola bars and fruit.
Entertainment: Pack books, coloring supplies, or a tablet loaded with games and movies.
First Aid Kit: Include basic medications, band-aids, and antiseptic wipes.

Tips for Safety and Hydration

Stay Hydrated: Carry refillable water bottles. London has many public water fountains.
Safety: Teach your kids to stay close and to recognize emergency services if needed.
Jet Lag: Adjust sleep schedules before traveling and keep kids active during the day of arrival.
Behavior Management: Use positive reinforcement and set clear expectations for behavior in public places.

School Holiday Periods and Family Travel Seasons

The best times to visit London with kids are during school holidays:

Spring Break: Late March to early April.
Summer Holidays: Late July to early September.
Christmas Break: Mid-December to early January.

These periods can be busy, so consider visiting during shoulder seasons (late September to early November or late February to mid-March) for fewer crowds and milder weather.

Conclusion

Traveling to London with children can be a delightful experience when planned properly. With engaging attractions, family-friendly accommodations, and plenty of dining choices, your family will have an enjoyable time exploring this vibrant city. Remember to stay flexible, maintain a sense of adventure, and most importantly, enjoy your family time together!