126 places in this collection
Top 10: our best of the bunch
Ranked by our own favourites first, then by how families rate them on Google.
- 1
Wonderlab at the Science MuseumMuseums & galleries · Central · All ages£15-£30★ 4.6 - 2
Leake St graffiti tunnelViews & landmarks · Central · All agesFree★ 4.7 - 3
Olympic Park StratfordParks & gardens · East · All agesFree★ 4.5 - 4
Young V&A (Bethnal Green Museum of Childhood)Museums & galleries · East · All agesFree★ 4.4 - 5
Walthamstow wetlandsParks & gardens · North · All agesFree★ 4.6 - 6
London Aquatic Centre - inflatablesPlaygrounds · East · All ages£5-£15★ 4 - 7
The Novelty Automation ArcadeArty stuff · Central · 8+Under £5 - 8
The Line Sculpture Trail and Cable CarViews & landmarks · East · All agesFree - 9
The Lookout, 8 BishopsgateViews & landmarks · Central · All agesFree - 10
Holland ParkParks & gardens · West · Under 13Free★ 4.7
Everything on this list
Chronos One Escape Rooms
A cinematic, time-travel-themed escape game where the room reacts around you. Puzzles are logic-led rather than gory, so it works well for confident 10s and up and for teens who think they're too cool for museums.
See detailsThe Novelty Automation Arcade
An eccentric arcade packed with satirical, hand-built mechanical machines by artist Tim Hunkin. Kids buy copper tokens to operate contraptions like a machine that walks a mechanical dog or an auto-frisking booth.
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Houses of Parliament Tour
Peel back the history of one of the world's most famous buildings with this tour through Westminster Hall, the House of Commons chamber, and the House of Lords. It’s worth going for a guided tour if you can - the charismatic guides are super-knowledgeable and happy to answer even the most inquisitive kids’ questions. The tours highlight centuries of political history, Victorian architecture and royal traditions - although the benefit of the cheaper self-guided audio tour is that families can set their own pace and there is dedicated content for younger visitors. Pre-booking online ahead is strongly recommended as visitor tickets sell out fast - especially for guided tours.
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Warner Bros. Studio Tour London (The Making of Harry Potter)
Walk through the real sets from the Harry Potter films — the Great Hall, Diagon Alley and Platform 9¾ — plus props, costumes and butterbeer.
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Disney's The Lion King
The ultimate 'first West End show' experience... Kids and adults alike love this music-filled spectacle: the opening sequence with the animals coming down the aisles is guaranteed to give you goosebumps - look out for deals on 'Disney Mondays' but book when you can - the Lion King is worth every penny.
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Go Ape Battersea Park
Tucked into the lush tree canopy of historic Battersea Park, this high-ropes site delivers serious thrills right in central London. It features higher platforms and longer crossings than most other Go Ape locations, giving you incredible views of the Thames and surrounding skyline. Adventurers can navigate double-freefall tarzan swings, high-wire crossings, and zip lines. You can easily turn your visit into a full day out by pairing it with a walk through Battersea Park, a visit to the nearby children's zoo, or food at Battersea Power Station - see separate listing.
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Harry Potter Film Locations Walking Tour
Led by a knowledgeable and entertaining guide, discover iconic filming locations, real world inspirations, and behind the scenes stories from the beloved film series.Start at King’s Cross Station to see Platform 9¾, then explore Leadenhall Market, the Monument to the Great Fire of London, London Bridge for views of Tower Bridge, Borough Market, the River Thames, Millennium Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, the Cenotaph, Downing Street, and Horse Guards Parade. Learn about Ministry of Magic filming locations, see Trafalgar Square, discover the inspiration for Gringotts Bank, and finish on Shaftesbury Avenue at the Palace Theatre, home of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. It's one for older kids as it lasts almost three hours, but the engaging guides kept us entertained!
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The London Eye
Glass pods carry you 135m above the Thames for a slow 30-minute 360-degree spin over the city... there are interactive digital guides telling you what to look out for too. Pods are buggy-friendly. But make sure the weather looks decent for the day you want to go!
See detailsGo Ape Alexandra Palace
Finnegan's World Website: finnegansworld.co.uk Nearest Tube: West Ealing (Elizabeth Line) / Ealing Broadway (Central, District, Elizabeth Lines) Location: 41 Broadway, West Ealing, London (W13 9DD) Price: £8 per child, £1.50 per accompanying adult. Open weekends only (10am to 5pm). Blurb: Set inside a converted former bank on West Ealing Broadway, this lovely, independent soft play café is designed for babies, toddlers, and young children. The venue focuses on imaginative play with miniature shop setups, soft climbing ramps, and sensory toys - it’s far more than the usual blocks and slides. Parents can sit back with decent coffee and a slice of cake while keeping a direct line of sight on their kids.
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The Traitors: Live Experience
If your family - like mine - spent the winter shouting accusations at the TV screen, this live Covent Garden theatrical event lets you step right into the velvet-draped drama. Guided by deliciously West End actor hosts, you take your place around a giant physical Round Table before secret roles are assigned. You will compete in hands-on mental and physical team challenges to build a prize pot, interspersed with hushed corridor side-chats, backstabbing, and explosive banishment votes. It's never the ones you expect who'll win - even if that's your own son or daughter! Family-friendly afternoon slots cater specifically to kids aged 12 and up, making it an absolutely perfect day out for teenagers who love a good poker face.
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Lee Valley Ice Centre
A big, bright twin-rink centre with TWO Olympic size skating venues, on the edge of Hackney Marshes with public skating sessions all week, penguin skate aids for little ones and lessons if anyone catches the bug and wants to go twirl-pro. And if they're old enough for drop-off, there's a gym plus studios with body conditioning, Pilates, yoga, group cycle, HIIT and dance fitness classes every week.
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Inflata Nation Colindale
This massive indoor arena gives kids the chance to enact their Gladiator dreams - it's packed wall-to-wall with connected inflatable activities. Race down giant 11-meter slides, tackle the obstacle ball course, jump onto tipping slides, and scramble up climbing walls. There's a dedicated, sealed-off area for under-4s so toddlers can bounce safely away from the energetic older kids. It's a nice workout for both kids and adults, or the on-site café balcony means parents can watch the action from above.
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London's Fun Board Game Cafés (rainy day fun)
Rainy Saturday, restless kids, nobody wants another soft play? London's board game cafés are one really excellent answer. There are thousands of games on the shelves, staff who explain the rules so you don't lose half an hour to an instruction manual, and proper food (and, more importantly to my kids, milkshakes) while you play. Most charge a few pounds per person for a table slot, families are welcome during the day, and you can happily stay put for three or four hours. Here are the five we send families to again and again, from one next to our favourite neon graffiti tunnel under Waterloo to a buggy-friendly hall in Croydon. Draughts (Waterloo), SE1 7NN — hidden in the Leake Street graffiti tunnel, 1,000+ games and roaming "Game Gurus" who pick kid-friendly titles for you. Families welcome before 9pm; nachos, burgers and thick shakes. Quietest on Sunday mornings. https://draughtslondon.com/locations/waterloo/ Draughts (Stratford), E20 1FS — floor-to-ceiling windows in East Village, bright and welcoming for younger families. Pair it with Tumbling Bay playground in the Olympic Park first, then a three-hour session with toasties and milkshakes. https://draughtslondon.com/locations/stratford/ The Ludoquist (Croydon), CR0 1QE — the South London family favourite: huge, bright, a dedicated Family & Kids bookcase from age three up, buggy-friendly aisles and sourdough pizzas. Book ahead on rainy weekends. https://www.theludoquist.com/ Bad Moon Cafe (Bermondsey / Elephant & Castle), SE1 4GZ — best for tweens and teens ready for fantasy strategy and card games. Big tables, four-hour slots and stone-baked pizzas. https://www.badmooncafe.co.uk/ Loading Bar (Stoke Newington), N16 0LH — the screens-and-tabletop compromise: free retro consoles built into the booths plus quick-fire card games, no table charge, under-18s welcome during the day. https://loading.bar/
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Regent's Park
This sweeping Royal Park is packed with formal rose gardens, boating lakes, and excellent playgrounds. Our favourite itinerary is to start at the Marylebone Gate Entrance and hit the Gloucester Gate Playground first (featuring a v long zip wire, massive climbing frames, and inclusive water-play features). Then head south toward the Boating Lake to rent a pedal boat or rowing boat if you fancy, stop for coffee and sourdough pastries or ice cream at the Boating Lake Café, take a short detour across York Bridge Road to find the Community Wildlife Garden, featuring a peaceful pond, natural balance logs, and wild meadow planting, then finish up at the Hanover Gate Playground to conquer the huge wooden treehouse structure and giant sandpits.
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Westminster Abbey
A thousand years of coronations, royal weddings and Poets' Corner packed into one very grand church. This one won't be a hit with ALL children, we found, but history fans will really enjoy the kids' audio guide, which includes hunting for tombs, and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Galleries give a brilliant bird's-eye view down into the Abbey.
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The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience
The TV show, for real. We loved battling the puzzles and challenges - they really are just like the show, with the countdown clock and fear of getting locked in bringing back nostalgic memories! The setting itself looks a bit run down in some areas, but that didn't stop us having a really fun evening, especially when the golf rains down inside the snowglobe and you try to snatch as much as possible. A Maze Master leads your team through Aztec, Medieval, Industrial and Futuristic zones grabbing crystals, before that confetti storm of the Crystal Dome. Older kids and teens love it - be aware that you may be mixed in with other people if your group isn't large enough to run solo.
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Hampstead Heath & Parliament Hill Playground
Wild, sprawling countryside right in North London, with swimming ponds for adults and older teens, kite-flying hills and a vast playground with a paddling pool.
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Richmond Park & Isabella Plantation
London's largest Royal Park, famous for wild red and fallow deer, ancient woodland and the streams inside the Isabella Plantation. Plenty of pockets to explore, and easy to combine with Richmond town centre for food or shopping.
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Zip World London at the ArcelorMittal Orbit
Britain's tallest sculpture - that Olympic DNA-like red thing, if you recall - doubles as an adventurous launchpad. You can now take the world’s longest and tallest tunnel slide down the artwork, spanning 178m in length, and including 12 loops, catching glimpses of London from new heights. Who'll love it more, parents or kids? Our niece still talks about this one, several years later!
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Oxford Street & Piccadilly Circus shopping and viral pics
The ultimate teen and child pop-culture trail - start at Oxford Circus and stop wherever your kid wants to - there's 7 floors of toy magic at Hamleys, visit Selfridges to check out viral food trends and social media popups, walk down to Piccadilly Circus to sit under the iconic Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain (aka Eros). Football fans will love Fanatics, and there's always some street performers and freebies along the route.
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Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours
Yes, Londoners roll their eyes at them, but sitting on the top deck of an open-top bus on a sunny day is the easiest, most fun way to show little ones the big sights without exhausting their legs. There are so many stops you can pick your own itinerary - and if it's nap time, let them slumber in your lap as you listen to the audio tour and view all of London's big hits in one day.
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V&A Museum (South Kensington)
Not an obviously child-friendly museum, but a stunning collection of art, jewellery, performance and fashion, with giant statues, digital family backpacks and hands-on activity trails.
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God's Own Junkyard
A dazzling, neon-drenched warehouse packed wall to wall with thousands of vintage film props, retro signs and flashing lights. Older kids love it for photos, younger ones just love the lights.
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Wicked
Got a drama-loving tween in the family? This Wizard of Oz prequel is a spectacular, belt-it-out musical extravaganza that will absolutely blow their socks off.
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Kew Gardens
World-famous botanical gardens that make a lovely outdoors day, with a huge dedicated Children's Garden packed with giant wooden trampolines, water play and canopy walkways.
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The Wallace Collection
Behind the grand townhouse façade lies one of Europe's greatest collections of arms and armour - there's kids trails and some mesmerising suits of armour, ornate swords and dagger displays. Start off on the basement level where you pick up the free family trail maps and interactive activity backpacks. The courtyard café inside is covered with a glass roof, making it a bright spot for lunch or tea after exploring.
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London Zoo
The world's oldest scientific zoo is in the heart of London, hugging Regents’ Park and featuring Land of the Lions, Penguin Beach, and an immersive Rainforest Life walk-through. It’s pricey but a thorough day out and your money all goes towards animal conservation. Don’t buy tickets at the gate - book online at least 48 hours ahead for the best rate. Save little legs by skipping the walk from Camden Town and catching the 274 bus straight to the main gate, or walk in scenic style along the Regent's Canal towpath from Camden Market. Under 7s will love a visit to the new(ish) ZooTown - an vast, immersive make-believe play area which is particularly brilliant if it rains!
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Wellcome Collection
A quirky museum exploring medicine, health and human life through bizarre historical objects, art and a wonderfully comfy Reading Room.
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Up at the O2
If you've got fearless older kids with energy to burn, this is for your family. Strap into a harness and literally climb over the roof of the O2 arena. The 360-degree views at the top are brilliant, especially at twilight - so try to book for a clear day. It's safe and well organised, but obviously a head for heights is helpful! We enjoyed combining with the outlets stores at O2 afterwards.
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Matilda The Musical
Witty, slightly dark (it is Roald Dahl, after all!), and incredibly clever - with a brilliant score that'll stick in your head forever - Matilda is a brilliant first West End experience. Kids will be mesmerised by the staging and adults will actually enjoy the jokes. A West End triumph... I've been three times with each of my kids and loved it every time.
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The Langham Children's Afternoon Tea
Can this seriously five-star luxury hotel really welcome kids? Absolutely yes. When ours visited they were welcomed with a beaming smile, with the live pianist even doing the occasional segue into the Peppa Pig or Traitors theme tune, to make the kids smile. Expect jigsaw-cut sandwiches, popping candy delicate treats, and an adult menu that's equally spectacular. Eats are unlimited and everyone leaves with a going-home goodie bag. This is a once-in-a-lifetime luxury afternoon tea. Themes change seasonally, but have included Hamleys-themed teas with kids taking a very huggable bear home with them.
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HMS Belfast
Nine decks of a real WWII warship anchored on the Thames, complete with gun turrets, boiler rooms and sailors' sleeping quarters. Kids love steering the ship with interactive instructions.
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London Fields Lido
A heated 50m outdoor pool in the middle of a Hackney park, open all year round — steam rising off the water in winter is half the fun. Family sessions, a paddling-friendly shallow end and the park and playground right outside.
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Tower of London & Crown Jewels
The Tower of London is a total slam-dunk for kids - which is partly why you need to go as soon as it opens to avoid the crowds! But it's worth it - where else can they see real crown jewels, hear gruesome execution stories, and meet giant, moody ravens - and not-at-all-moody beefeaters? (The ones we met were very friendly and happy for photos!) But since it’s a sprawling medieval fortress, navigating it with impatient children requires a game plan. On arrival, do the Crown Jewels Sprint: Ignore the entrance photo-ops, and the second that gates open, march straight to the Jewel House before the hour-long queue forms. There's a moving walkway to look at the biggest crowns, then loop back into the standing lane so kids can get up close to the sparkles. We recommend catching a Beefeater Tour. These are free 45-minute walks which are full of bloody history and stand-up comedy that keeps kids hooked. Join an early morning tour before legs tire. If kids are stalling, tell them to hunt for the ravens - the six resident birds on the South Lawn. When the central White Tower gets packed, head up to the ramparts. Kids can run through medieval turrets and aim imaginary arrows through slits while you enjoy views of Tower Bridge. Don't miss the random animal room near the back of the tower - learn how the Tower of London led to the formation of London Zoo! Pack snacks and - if you can - take a sling rather than a buggy, though they're welcome, it's easier to navigate when nimble. The on-site café get busy, but they actually serve up really good food (better than almost any other London attraction we've been to!) including great salad bars and good kids choices.
See detailsThe Line Sculpture Trail and Cable Car
London's first dedicated public art walk winds along the canals and waterways between Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and The O2. Kids hunt down giant outdoor installations, like Alex Chinneck's inverted pylon, while spotting dockside wildlife.
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Tate Modern
Housed in a dramatic former power station on the Thames, this is one of the world's biggest modern art museums - and free to get into for the permanent collection, with tickets only needed for the big temporary shows. Kids gravitate to the vast, cathedral-like Turbine Hall, which regularly hosts huge, playful art installations perfect for running around in. Pick up a free drawing kit or sound-based family trail from the family desk at weekends, or join the daily free guided tours if the little ones can sit still that long. UNIQLO Tate Play runs family-friendly art activities every weekend, and there's a Baby Care Room if you're travelling with very young children. Cross via the Millennium Bridge from St Paul's for the most dramatic approach.
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Greenwich Park & Royal Observatory Grounds
Historic park with incredible skyline views across the river, a large gated playground, a deer enclosure and sweeping hills. Grounds and the Prime Meridian line outside are free; the Observatory museum is ticketed.
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MathsWorld London
Don't laugh - maths really can be fun and this really different and fun activity proves it! Tucked into a set of industrial railway arches just behind Tate Modern, this newly opened interactive space proves maths is far more than boring school worksheets. Spread across two floors, kids can scramble inside a giant soap bubble, face off against an AI chess master, test their logic on an elliptical pool table, and crack secret ciphers on the Codebreaker wall. It is brilliantly geared toward problem-solvers of all ages - there are definitely no textbooks here. And your day ticket turns into a 12-month annual pass, making it the ultimate South Bank rainy-day fallback whenever you are in the area. Keep in mind term-time weekdays often host school groups, so grab an afternoon slot or go on weekends for calmer vibes. The only disappointment we had were the loos: not brilliant!
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The Ampersand Jurassic Afternoon Tea
Dino-obsessed kids will lose their minds over this delicious afternoon tea. Cakes emerge from a dry-ice 'volcano', and kids are given paintbrushes to 'excavate' chocolate fossils hidden in biscuit crumb soil. Brilliantly interactive and ridiculously fun - tasty, too.
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Word on the Water - Floating Bookshop
A 100-year-old Dutch barge on Regent's Canal turned into a moored floating bookshop, with children's books, cosy nooks and rooftop live music on sunny afternoons.
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The British Library (Family Trails)
Book-loving kids will enjoy an hour here among the world's most famous manuscripts, from the Magna Carta to Leonardo da Vinci's notebooks and Beatles lyrics, mostly in one ground-floor exhibition hall. There are free weekend family workshops too.
See detailsLeake St graffiti tunnel
Get creative at one of London's only permitted graffiti locations! Bring spray paints (£2 in Poundland), wear masks to stay safe and enjoy decorating the walls to your heart's content.
See details★ 4.7
London Canal Museum & Boat Trip
Housed in a Victorian ice warehouse built for ice cream pioneer Carlo Gatti, this interactive museum lets kids sit inside a replica narrowboat cabin and learn how canal families lived. Try to book your visit to align with one of the museum's seasonal narrowboat trips through the 878-yard-long Islington Tunnel - it's a lovely ride. If not, walk outside to Battlebridge Basin to catch a public London Waterbus down the canal to Camden Market.
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Chinatown, Leicester Square & movie magic
Sensory overload, West End-style. Start at the two big Leicester Square anchors: the four-storey M&M'S London, with its life-size photo-op characters, and the LEGO Store, home to a giant brick-built Big Ben and London Underground display. Then head through the Chinatown gate off Wardour Street for lanterns, bakery windows piled with bun art, bubble tea, bubble waffles, taiyaki soft-serve, and the area's cheap buffet-style Chinese restaurants for a low-stress lunch. On the way, we love to visit the West End Arts Library (westminster.gov.uk/arts-library), a short walk from Leicester Square tucked between the square and the National Gallery on the site of Isaac Newton's former home: it's free to enter and has a cute kids' corner packed with hundreds of brand-new artist-related books and a little sofa to curl up and read (open Mon–Fri 10am–8pm, Sat 10am–5pm, closed Sundays). If there's appetite for more walking, Trafalgar Square is five minutes south with lions to climb, fountains, and street performers, the National Portrait Gallery just off it offers free entry with family trails and activity sheets, and Covent Garden with the London Transport Museum is 10–15 minutes away and a big hit for kids who love trains and buses. Wrap up the day with a film at one of Leicester Square's cinemas, or check the TKTS booth in Leicester Square for same-day discounted family show tickets. This stretch is always heaving with tourists, so brace for crowd navigation, especially around M&M'S World and the LEGO Store on weekends and school holidays.
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Lightroom London
This four-storey immersive digital art space is a sensory feast - a purpose-built projection space in King's Cross with frequently-changing immersive shows from major artists and creative names - past programmes have included David Hockney's 60-year retrospective, Prehistoric Planet's life-sized dinosaurs, and a journey through David Bowie's world narrated by the man himself. Floor-to-ceiling laser projection and a powerful spatial sound system wrap around you as you wander freely through the space, with each show running on a loop of around 45-60 minutes so you can stay as long as you like. It's welcoming for children of all ages, and there's a St John-run café bar for snacks and drinks afterwards.
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Imperial War Museum (IWM London)
Fascinating history museum packed with real Spitfires, tanks and submarine models, plus great interactive family trails. A must for history or transport-loving kids.
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Harry Potter Platform 9 3/4 & Foundling Museum
Pair a pop-culture photo opp with rich London history. Start at King's Cross Station for the iconic Platform 9 ¾ luggage trolley photo and shop (there might be a queue but it moves fast). Then walk seven minutes south to the Foundling Museum, which tells the moving story of Britain's first home for abandoned children, founded in 1739 with support from artist William Hogarth and composer George Frideric Handel. The Granary Square fountains are nearby if it's a warm day - its 1,080 choreographed jets are a huge hit with younger kids in summer (bring a spare set of clothes). Coal Drops Yard next door has shops and food for older kids/teens who've outgrown splashing about.
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Aqua Shard Peter Pan Afternoon Tea
Served 31 floors up with jaw-dropping views of London, teens to tots will love this afternoon tea. The Peter Pan theme features a Jolly Roger ship stand which is presented with the wow factor of dry-ice smoke, then there are Tinkerbell cookies, and Captain Hook croquettes... It's a really spectacular high-altitude treat that we all enjoyed - and didn't even need colouring/entertainment because watching tiny people, trains and boats on the streets far below was fun for all the family! If you can go on a wintery later afternoon, you get to see London in daytime and twinkling in the evening.
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Swingers Crazy Golf (City)
The City branch of Swingers, a 1920s-themed indoor crazy golf venue with street food and bars. Children are welcome at family sessions only, so check the venue website before booking.
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Museum of Illusions London
Rooms that tip you sideways, a vortex tunnel that scrambles your balance and a whole wall of holograms — an hour of proper "how did they do that?" fun just off Covent Garden. Endlessly photogenic, and small enough not to melt anyone down.
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ABBA Voyage
Forget everything you know about holograms: this bespoke arena built in East London delivers a concert experience that feels 100% real.... even though your brain keeps telling you it's not. We went with a ten and 16 year old, and all enjoyed it: the digital "Abbatars" perform alongside a live ten-piece band, surrounded by arena lighting that bleeds into the crowd. The energy is electric from start to finish - go dressed up if you can! It's packed with non-stop Abba hits that really got every generation in the crowd dancing. Kids aged 6 and up are allowed in the seated sections (strictly no under-3s anywhere in the arena), making it a rare multi-generational hit where kids, parents, and grandparents will be able to boogie and sing along together.
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Hobbledown Epsom
The original Hobbledown location set in the Surrey countryside features character towers, high ropes, giant pillows, and an extensive farm park. Kids can meet camels, meerkats, llamas, and birds of prey before running wild through the outdoor adventure play villages. Rain isn’t a major problem thanks to the indoor play barn and the Imaginarium, an interactive space combining crawling tunnels with reptiles and bugs - although try to book for a day with some clear weather as the outside playgrounds are the most-exciting part. Hobbledown feels like a rural escape, making it ideal for a full day out with toddlers and primary-aged children.
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Rosewood London Art Afternoon Tea
A stunning, sophisticated option for older kids. The pastries are edible masterpieces inspired by famous artists like Hockney or Dali - currently, it's Monet. Kids get their own painter's palette with squeezy tubes of jam and curd, and the cakes are serious works of art - as you'd expect for the price! There's no minimum age, but the set-up is smart and sophisticated and I got the feeling that screaming toddlers wouldn't be overly welcome.
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Frameless Immersive Art Experience
Four galleries of interactive, giant projection-mapped art, where masterpieces by Van Gogh and Monet move across the walls and beneath your feet.
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Monopoly Lifesized
Immersive 80-minute walkthrough on a giant Monopoly board, guided by actors through dice-rolling, property buying and escape-room style challenge rooms.
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Regent's Park Open Air Theatre
Britain's only permanent open-air theatre sits right in the middle of Regent's Park, staging a summer season of musicals, Shakespeare and family shows beneath the sky (bring a coat or sunscreen depending on the day - performances go ahead rain or shine). Family-friendly productions and a dedicated Family Takeover Day feature among the summer's line-up alongside bigger name shows, and you can bring a picnic to eat on the lawn or in Queen Mary's Gardens beforehand. Leave plenty of time to find the thearte - it's a walk from the nearest tube through the park with limited signposting.
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Twist Museum
This Oxford Street attraction claims to explore how our brains interpret the world through over eighty interactive exhibits - we found it more of an Instagram/Snap hub, full of kids and teens snapping mind-bending photos. But they enjoy doing so - and so will your older kids: you step inside illusion rooms, test sound and perspective tricks, and walk through colour-shifting corridors, everything’s heavily interactive and there are loads of photo opportunities.
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Hobbledown Heath
No child can fail to fall in love Hobbledown - one of the biggest indoor and outdoor adventure parks in London, it's built around a whimsical world of mystical creatures and outdoor play villages. Outside, kids can climb high wooden towers, balance across sky bridges, jump on inflatable pillows, participate in massive marble runs, dig in sand pits, and visit capybaras, goats, and meerkats in the animal enclosures. Inside, the huge Great Barn features multi-level soft play, climbing structures, and indoor dining. There are animal and bird shows and talks, but you'll have to haul the kids away from the playgrounds first. It is a big, open site with plenty of walking - we like bringing a buggy to schlep the lunch / snacks/ waters around.
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Cutty Sark Ship
History-loving kids can explore the world's last surviving tea clipper, walking the wooden decks, taking the ship's wheel and meeting actors playing Victorian sailors.
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Lee Valley White Water Centre (Water Tubing)
This 2012 Olympic venue offers plenty of ways for the whole family to get wet, from family paddling sessions to water tubing and inflatable obstacle courses on the calmer lakes. There is a sandy beach play area and a terrace cafe beside the white-water course.
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Arsenal Emirates Stadium Tour
A behind-the-scenes look at the Premier League winners’ home stadium, with touch-screen audio handsets helping explain all. Fans can walk through the home dressing room, take photos in the press conference room, walk down the tunnel, and sit in the manager's pitchside dugout. The ticket price includes entry to the Arsenal Museum, where you can view historic match kits, trophies, and memorabilia from the club's history. Note that stadium tours do not run on home match days.
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TeamSport GoKarting & Activities Brent Cross
Perched on the top floor of Brent Cross Red Car Park - glam, we know - this indoor entertainment venue features a 400m multi-level electric karting track that our kids love. There are adult and junior high-speed karts, plus a separate mini track for four-to-seven-year-olds. You can easily pair a race session with their on-site duckpin bowling, electronic games arcade, pool tables, and diner food. Or pop next door to Brent Cross for a shop and eat.
See detailsSwingers Crazy Golf (West End)
The West End branch of Swingers, a 1920s-themed indoor crazy golf venue with street food and bars. Children are welcome at family sessions only, so check the venue website before booking.
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Thames Rockets
This is no calm London sightseeing boat - it's a speedboat ride that blasts James Bond music while you bounce over the waves. Thrill-seeking kids and teens will LOVE it - anyone of nervous disposition might... not. There are times when you're sure the boat will tip (it doesn't!) - the guides are incredibly funny and the kids will scream with joy. The 50-minute ride departs from the London Eye Pier and takes in Big Ben, Shakespeare's Globe, The Shard and Tower Bridge. Once you're past the Bridge, the 880hp engines kick in and you'll hit speeds of up to 35mph, twisting through the Docklands to a pumping soundtrack. It's loud, wet and completely exhilarating. Ponchos and life jackets provided.
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The London Dungeon
Live actors and underground rides tell London's grisliest history — plague, fire and Jack the Ripper. It's recommended age 12+ but my kids were fine with the spookiness from 10, it depends on your kids. The emphasis is on fun experience rather than museum-style historical facts, but it's an entertaining place for teens especially.
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WeJam - The Family Rockband Experience
Head down the stairs beneath Camden Guitars into a real recording studio for what might be one of the coolest family music bonding experiences in London. You do not need a single ounce of musical talent: smart tech and color-coded instruments mean even total beginners can pick up real electric guitars, bass, drums, and keys instantly. A live session musician guides your family as you jam along to bangers by Queen, Billie Eilish, or Harry Styles, with software dynamically adjusting difficulty levels for each player. At the end, you walk away with professionally mixed audio tracks of your actual performance to brag about ... forever. Or at least make people listen to!
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Wizard Exploratorium Afternoon Tea
Not officially a Harry Potter tea, but magic fans will love this experience. Set in a multi-storey converted Soho house, you use wands to brew colour-changing teas and unlock puzzle boxes to get your cakes. It's hands-on, highly interactive, and tasty too - but not accessible for buggies or wheelchairs.
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Madame Tussauds London
You'll either love it or hate it... but kids love to take selfies with wax celebrities, the Marvel 4D cinema and a Star Wars zone. There are replicas of the Royal Family and celebs including Harry and Taylor... Plus access to the interactive Marvel Super Heroes 4D Exhibition, Spirit of London Ride, and Chamber of Horrors. Don't waste time in the long queue! Prebook below.
See detailsThe Lookout, 8 Bishopsgate
A high-rise public viewing platform on the 50th floor with 360-degree views over the Gherkin, Tower Bridge and the Thames. Far quieter and easier to book than the Sky Garden, so much less stressful with impatient young kids.
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Barbican Conservatory
Visit the (free) garden, check out the library and its amazing kids' section, stroll the Barbican's architecture
See details★ 4.5
Coram's Fields Playground
This 7-acre urban oasis features adventure playgrounds, a city farm with small animals, sandpits, and adults are only allowed in if they're with kids. Its annual free play day includes even more activities, from crafts to bouncy castles and snacks.
See details★ 4.7
Canary Wharf
Urban area with rooftop gardens, seasonal free activities including mini golf and sport/film screenings, small playgrounds and lots of food/drink options. Great for scooting/cycling. Combine with a trip on the DLR (ride the first carriage and pretend to be the driver), and the Museum of London Docklands
See detailsOlympic Park Stratford
Visit Tumbling Bay playground, enjoy the vast network of family-friendly cycling routes, and splash in the water fountains
See details★ 4.5London Aquatic Centre - inflatables
Challenge yourself on this epic inflatable course, set on the Olympic 50m pool. With thrilling obstacles, slides, and climbing walls, it’s perfect for adventurous swimmers aged 8 and up. Check dates on the website. Adult – £12.60, Junior – £9.45
See details★ 4
Anya Hindmarsh's Ice Cream Project
Cool off in these fountains and splashpads - always check direct on websites to ensure they're up and running!
See details★ 4
Paddington Rec Adventure Playground
One of our favourite playgrounds in London - hidden slides, pastel townhouses, separate spaces for different ages. Large green to run around on too, and a decent cafe.
See details★ 4.6
Toca Social interactive football
An interactive, high-tech football entertainment and decent food, featuring private playing boxes and digital target games.
See details★ 4.8Holland Park
Two fantastic playgrounds - including a huge adventure one with sand and water - a Japanese garden, peacocks, cafes - a great day out. Can combine with Design Museum.
See details★ 4.7
Battersea Power Station
Wander for free (there are often treasure hunts to particpate in), visit the brightly-designed Prospect Place Playground, or do one of the many paid-for activities: two cinemas, Bounce Battersea, and get a taste for the heights at the Chimney Lift. For tots, there's soft play centre, Macaroni Penguin.
See details★ 4.6Wonderlab at the Science Museum
A packed floor with experiments, interactive models, slides, and frequent presenter-led shows with fire, flashes and bangs.
See details★ 4.6
Babylon Park
Indoor theme park and arcade centre in Camden - including a mini rollercoaster, bumper cars and simulation rides
See details★ 4.4
Camley Street Nature Reserve
Former coal drop for Kings Cross railway has been transformed into this urban garden, a rich habitat for birds, butterflies, amphibians and plant life, with children's trails, weekend activity drop-ins and a small but lovely cafe.
See details★ 4.6
Stephen's House and Gardens
Small park with gardens, pond, cafe and playground with sandpit, which often hosts seasonal events including treasure hunts, Halloween nights and summer outdoor theatre for children. Lots of green with clear visibility for sports games and running around.
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Kings Cross day out
This redeveloped area is mostly traffic-free, so great for scooting and wandering around the wide areas, fountains, small parks and shops. Pop-up (paid for) events include petanque and curling, our kids always enjoy gaming at the Samsung store in Coal Drops Yard, there are food markets, the Everyman cinema, you can stroll to Camley Street Nature Park, walk along the canal and get snapped with the Harry Potter sign at Kings Cross station. Visit the floating bookshop on the canal, cool off at the Cubbitt Sq fountains and check out the small Handyside playground and birdcafe swing outside KX station for a quick energy release.
See details★ 4.6
Tate Britain
This art gallery on the Thames showcases five centuries of iconic British art, including the world's largest collection of works by Turner.. but you'll be here for the free, hands-on family play activities and children's explorer trail map you can pick up at the Clore Learning Centre.
See details★ 4.7
Parkland Walk
The longest linear nature reserve in London - which follows the former railway line connecting Finsbury Park to Alexandra Palace that opened in 1873 -is a fab flat 5km adventure for kids. Bring the bikes for a cycle/walk combo - it's no good for scooters though as too bumpy. Let the kids hunt for the hidden sculptures (like the famous Spriggan figure near the Highgate tunnels), spot wildlife, and jump on the old, overgrown platforms.
See details★ 4.6Walthamstow wetlands
You won't feel like you're on the doorstep of central London in the fresh air and beautiful scenery of Walthamstow wetlands. Take a leisurely stroll, or follow the designated cycling route; there's a bevy of wildlife to spot... and a great cafe to bribe unwilling kids with cakes and ice creams. Mini beast hunts, forest school sessions and storytelling run frequently too - some charges apply.
See details★ 4.6
Natural History Museum
A massive, world-class museum filled with dinosaur skeletons, minerals, and interactive natural science exhibits. Pack a lunch to eat on the East Lawn on nice days, and make sure to pre-book a free timed ticket online to skip the main queue.
See details★ 4.6
Science Museum
Packed with hands-on space rockets, steam engines, and interactive technology zones. Head straight to the basement's Pattern Pod for toddlers or the Garden play area to burn off early energy before the crowds peak - older kids will enjoy Wonderlab (see separate listing) and Power Up (paid for).
See details★ 4.6
British Museum
Houses millions of historic artifacts, including ancient Egyptian mummies and the Rosetta Stone. Grab a free family activity trail map at the Information Desk in the Great Court to turn your visit into an engaging scavenger hunt. Book your (free) ticket online first, you'll probably still have to face a short queue but it moves quickly.
See details★ 4.2
Diana Memorial Playground
huge, gated adventure play space in Kensington Gardens featuring a massive wooden pirate ship, teepees, and sensory trails. There's sand, water and a musical trail. Ice cream cafe and it's based in the huge Kensington Gardens with lots of areas to explore - could combine with Holland Park for a full on playground day. The Diana Memorial Playground reopened in Summer 2026 after a revamp. Aim to arrive when it opens at 10 AM, as capacity is capped and queues form quickly on sunny afternoons.
See details★ 4.7
Postal Museum & Mail Rail
London's best rainy-day secret. Ride the Mail Rail — the world's first driverless electric railway — through the original tunnels 70 feet below the streets, which once whisked four million letters a day between Paddington and Whitechapel from 1927 to 2003. The 15-minute ride runs through open-top miniature carriages with audio-visual storytelling along the way, then it's up to the museum galleries for interactive exhibits spanning five centuries of postal history. The current family exhibition, The Jolly Postman, runs into January 2027, bringing the classic picture book to life through an interactive story world. There's also Sorted!, a separate-ticket play space for ages 1–8, if little ones need to burn energy after the ride. The museum and Mail Rail sit in two separate buildings across Phoenix Place from each other, so head to Mail Rail first and check in ahead of your printed time slot. Book online in advance — timed Mail Rail slots regularly sell out on weekends and school holidays.
See details★ 4.6Young V&A (Bethnal Green Museum of Childhood)
A museum completely redesigned for children, with interactive design, building toys, display cabinets of toys from parents' own childhood (way to feel old), performance spaces, and creative play zones. Large cafe on the ground floor and a temporary exhibit space as well as a large theatre area where kids can act.
See details★ 4.4
Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace and St James’s Park
Stroll through these iconic central London parks - featuring Serpentine lake views, expansive grounds, and historic statues - while joining the crowds at Buckingham Palace to show the kids the guards and splendour. Head to St James's Park near Duck Island around 2:30pm to catch the daily pelican feeding time, and visit its playground and cafes for a break.
See details★ 4.7
Kentish Town City Farm
On the edge of trainlines is this lovely local gem - a free-entry city farm with horses, pigs, chickens and other animals and frequent low-cost activities, including horse-riding, a chance for young people to learn about the vegetables and fruit grown on the farm, and animal encounters.
See details★ 4.3
Hackney City Farm
A community farm offering kids a chance to meet pigs, sheep, goats, and ducks in the middle of East London. Visit the on-site Italian cafe for great fresh bread and coffee, and bring small change if you want to buy feed for the animals.
See details★ 4.5
Horizon 22 London viewing platform
The highest free viewing platform in Europe, offering 360-degree views across London from 58 stories up. Small pond and landscaping, but you're mainly here for the views! Tickets drop in batches online weeks in advance, so ensure you book before you visit.
See details★ 4.8
Grant Museum of Zoology
A 19th-century cabinet of curiosities packed floor to ceiling with over 68,000 animal specimens: a jar of preserved moles, dodo bones, a quagga skeleton and a brain collection. Weird, slightly spooky and compact enough to see in 45 minutes.
See details★ 4.8
London Mithraeum
An immersive underground archaeological site displaying the ruins of a Roman Temple of Mithras beneath Bloomberg's headquarters. Download their free interactive iPad guide on arrival - older kids can unlock the digital mysteries of ancient Roman London, younger ones will need to stay off the ancient ruins though!
See details★ 4.5
Horniman Museum and Gardens
This eclectic museum in Forest Hill ostensibly covers natural history - the kids will love the musical instruments, aquarium, and famous overstuffed walrus. The huge gardens and animal walk are free, making it ideal for a low-cost family picnic with London skyline views. There is a fee to enter the aquarium and butterfly house.
See details★ 4.6
National Maritime Museum
The world's largest maritime museum features boat displays, naval art, and a massive world map floor grids. But as a family, you need to head straight to the Ahoy! gallery (for ages 0–7) or AHOY! Children's Gallery for interactive pirate-themed ship play. Ever-changing exhibitions are often child-friendly too. Cove playground is fab too - there's a solid morning or afternoon to be spent here. Combine with a Greenwich wander round its parks, cafes and shops. Museum is free, play slots cost £4.50 on weekends plus school and bank holidays.
See details★ 4.6
IFS Cloud Cable Car and Royal Docks
Take this cable car ride soaring over the river Thames between Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks. Don't overpay - tap in with an Oyster card or debit card for cheap pay-as-you-go fares rather than buying full-price tourist tickets at the terminal counter - and boost your day with a trip to the O2's attractions and outlets, a visit to City Hall (go on a weekday and try to book into watch Mayor's Question Time - free but must book) or the Royal Docks' summer beach area if it's open. Cable car prices are: £6.00 Adult / £3.00 Child (one-way with contactless)
See details★ 4.5
River bus on a Thames Clipper Boat
Take this fast river boat service cruising past London’s major waterfront landmarks, from Big Ben to Tower Bridge. It's ostensibly a commuter service but turn it into an affordable family river cruise by boarding at Westminster Pier and riding east toward Greenwich while using standard TfL Oyster card or a tap-in debit card. Under £10 per adult (Children under 5 travel free, older children half price).
See details★ 4.5
Mudlarks at the London Museum, Docklands
This London museum features a fantastic kids' area with water play, building blocks, and a climbing zone that's kept clean and tiny and packed with fun. It’s a great free indoor option that's perfect for toddlers up to kids aged 8 - you can find out what the docks were used for and what life would've been like for sailors many years ago, 'drive' a DLR train in the soft play area, move ships along the docks on the water play station and help the workers move their cargo using wheelbarrows. Sessions last 45m and cost from £4 - book ahead online. The rest of the (excellent) museum is free.
See details★ 4.6
Take the No. 9 bus sightseeing
This is a cheap and easy bus sightseeing tour, try to grab a top deck seat as you go past landmarks including Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey. Sometimes the route is even run with an old-fashioned Routemaster. This is a budget-friendly way to see London while keeping kids engaged by ticking off sights - we love doing this route alongside the Usborne book of London.
See details★ 3.9
Ikea
Hear me out for a second here... DO NOT GO ON A WEEKEND OR BUSY PERIOD. But for an easy morning out with a toddler, there's lots to recommend about Ikea. Surprisingly fun for kids who love exploring the miniature room setups, playing in the toy section, and picking out plants or new room decor. And you can conclude the extravaganza with a decent, cheap children's meal that you don't have to make (or clear up).
See details★ 4
RAF Museum, Hendon
This recently-updated museum is a must for airplane fans: its massive hangars are filled with real planes, chinooks, helicopters, and ride-on replicas; there's a new soft play area, a fun outdoor aviation-themed playground, simulators and more. There's a cafe so you can make a day of it. Free tickets can be booked ahead of time; there's scant local parking so you'll need to pay for the car park. Frequently-changed exhibitions are child-friendly and fascinating.
See details★ 4.8
The Southbank
This vibrant, pedestrian-only stretch along the Thames is filled with street food, buskers, and cultural venues like the Southbank Centre, BFI and Tate Modern which always have child-friendly exhibitions and space to run around in. The Southbank is buggy bliss for parents because there are no stairs to navigate, and plenty of child-friendly chain restaurants to warm up (or cool down) in. There are mini Thames-side beaches to explore too - just don't go for a dip in the not-so-clean river.
See details★ 4.5
Discover Children's Story Centre
One of my favourite London museums for under 7s, this imaginative centre includes indoor and outdoor playgrounds, storytelling rooms, exhibitions crafted around authors and books, and creative arts activities. It is wonderful for inspiring creativity in toddlers and younger children - I like to tire mine out with a morning here, then enjoy their buggy nap as I stroll around neighbouring Westfield. Discounts are available for Newham residents - everyone should remember to book a storytelling session while booking entry tickets.
See details★ 4.3
Sky Garden
A large, indoor landscaped garden high above the city offering incredible panoramic views and plenty of open space to walk around. It is completely free - but you must book your time slot well in advance.
See details★ 4.6
Broomfield Park
There's a large adventure playground here alongside a conservatory, a model boating pond, and a lake. It makes for a nice afternoon out - especially if you stop by the nearby Baskervilles Tea Shop for delicious babyccinos and cakes.
See details★ 4.2
Elstree Aerodrome
If you've got aviation-obsessed kids - or just those that like to look up - plan a trip to this airfield north of London. It's pure magic for transport-obsessed toddlers: a working airfield where toddlers can spend hours thrilled by the steady stream of light aircraft and helicopters taking off and landing. Don't miss out on the surprisingly good on-site café to grab a hot drink or nice lunch while you plane-spot.
See details★ 4.2
London Transport Museum
This super-interactive museum lets children truly explore. It gets very busy (go early) but kids of all ages can experience what it's like to drive a train, learn about London's changing transport, go on old buses, follow an informative trail, get involved in workshops and more - it's an in-depth day out for kids who are obsessed with how things move. There's a cafe, and tickets are valid for a year so you can revisit as much as you like. It's in Covent Garden with lots of entertainers, shops and cafes to visit too.
See details★ 4.4
Gobions Wood
This 36-acre ancient woodland nature reserve is the perfect walk and picnic spot - it has carpetings of bluebells in spring, and 500 species of fungi to spot in autumn - but for kids, the best part are the logs to balance on, large lake with ducks and tadpoles, a playground area near the car park, and a large field perfect for picnicking and games. The trails are flat, and buggy-accessible. Park at the North Mymms Parish Council car park (off Jonas Way) for direct access to both the children’s play area and the woodland trail entrance.
See details★ 4.6
Alexandra Palace
It's huge and there's lots to do at Ally Pally: 196 acres of parkland with sweeping skyline views over London - older kids will enjoy the Summit, where you walk over the top of the iconic building - but on the ground there's loads to do too. Ice skating inside, swan pedalos on its the dedicated boating lake, an expansive playground which works for both older and younger kids, and includes a sandpit. There are a few cafes, including Lakeside Café, loads of picnicking spots, and Little Dinos - a soft play with large outdoor space that's a huge hit with younger kids (and with better coffee and adult seating than most). The park is free, parking is charged, activities all cost extra.
See details★ 4.5
Berkhampstead (castle, canal, playground)
Historic market town Berko is a rural day-trip close to northwest London - it has an idyllic canal, castle ruins dating back to 1066, and plenty of family-friendly playgrounds. For history-loving kids, toddlers who enjoy spotting trains and boats, and parents wanting great independent eateries, this is a great day out. Baby parents: leave the buggy behind if you plan to explore the castle ruins, as the path isn't very buggy-friendly, and use a sling instead. Lots of eateries around Lower King's Street if you don't fancy a picnic.
See details★ 4
Woodberry Wetlands
This regenerated urban nature reserve offers smooth, buggy- and scooter-friendly boardwalks surrounded by wildlife, reedbeds, and play areas. It’s ideal for families with young children, birdwatchers, and anyone looking for a fresh, scenic walk. Park near Bethune Road or Lordship Road, bring scooters for the kids to zip along the paths, and don't forget to visit the historic Coal House Café for great coffee and sourdough lunches.
See details★ 4.6
Capel Manor Gardens
This is a university for horticulture - which is brilliantly open for families to explore with loads of activities too. It features over 30 themed gardens - including a children's garden, maze, fairy garden, and Japanese garden - along with a small farm and reptile collection (the snake always surprises me), kitchen garden, and acres and acres to explore. It’s a wonderful, good value outdoorsy day out - pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, or expect simple school lunch-style fare in the canteen. Check out their calendar for seasonal children's events like Easter egg hunts, and summer festivals, there's always a good kids' treasure hunt trail too.
See details★ 4.6
Finchley Nurseries
More than just a standard plant nursery, this friendly local garden centre has an aquarium section with fish, a small outdoor play area for children, and a lovely on-site cafe with homemade cakes and toasties. During the summer months, there's a pick-your-own flowers field to cut a bouquet to bring home. Free parking.
See details★ 4.7
Kenwood House & Grounds
Perched on the edge of Hampstead Heath, Kenwood offers sweeping grassy hills, duck ponds, tree-climbing and historic architecture. It’s fantastic for families, dog owners, and picnickers looking for open space to run wild. Insider tip: walk downhill from the main house and search for the famous "Hollow Tree" (searchable on Google Maps) for a natural climbing structure the kids will love. Inside the main house, there's art galore, often a kids' trail, and children's dress-up outfits and games to keep the history alive. There's also an ice cream cafe and a restaurant at the main house. Paid parking in the car park, free on local roads. No formal playground here, but trees provide plenty of fun - and you can walk through to Hampstead Heath and its playgrounds if you need.
See details★ 4.7
Verulamium Park (St Albans)
Spanning over 100 acres of parkland set around historic Roman ruins, this destination park boasts a huge playground, splash park, mini-golf course and a lake teeming with waterfowl. It is an exceptional day trip for families with young children and history buffs alike - it has Roman bath ruins inside the park, but you can also walk across it to the Verulanium museum, to St Albans' town centre with shops, cafes and the St Albans museum itself, with lots of kids' activities and dress-up (all free). Insider tip: order waffles from the famous The Waffle House located right at the edge of the park. Mine's a banofee special.
See details★ 4.1
Golders Hill Park & Hill Garden Pergola
Adjoining Hampstead Heath, Golders Hill boasts a free animal zoo area including deer, birds, and a butterfly house; there's a duck pond, ornamental gardens, a large playground, bandstand and a huge amount of space to run around. Take a sharp left upon entering from North End Road to discover the grand, secluded Hill Garden and Pergola, a stunning ruined terrace popular for photos. The cafe is decent with excellent gelato.
See details★ 4.7
Lewis of London Ice Cream Farm
This popular spot serves up dozens of handmade ice cream and gelato flavours, made directly from farm-fresh milk. Every year they're also expanding the entertainment options: playgrounds, hay bales, pony rides, sand pits, tractors to climb on, and mazes can often be found here. Expect a queue on warm weekend afternoons, but it moves quickly. Free entry, large car park, but you'll want to buy an ice or two.
See details★ 4.1
Highgate Wood & Queen's Wood
These twin ancient woodlands offer dens, stick-building spots, and miles of shaded walking trails alongside Highgate Wood's superb playground with dedicated toddler sections, swings, zipline and dual sandpits. Highgate Wood's Pavilion Café has delicious café food and coffee, while the smaller (and quieter) Queen's Wood has a small cafe too.
See details★ 4.7
Forty Hall & Myddelton House Gardens
Located short distances apart in Enfield, these two historic estates include expansive gardens for kids to explore, farm animals, fishing lakes, heritage exhibits, and charming tea rooms. They are ideal for cross-generational family outings - older garden lovers after a gentle afternoon stroll can be lapped by rock-climbing kids - but check opening times online before heading over, and combine both estates into a full day out.
See details★ 4.4
West End Toy Shop Trail
This is the ultimate West End retail safari... the kind of shopping kids actually love. Start at Selfridges, in Marble Arch, where on the fourth floor you can gawk at eye-watering £750 giant Jellycat stuffed moons (we saw someone actually buy one) and the fish and chip store, watch the life magic demos and let kids test retro arcade games and futuristic robots on the tech floor in the basement. Probably a good time to set a budget so they can pick one toy from one store for the day - or whatever your budget is. It's worth taking a gander at the food hall too. Next, continue down Oxford Street. Your Big Game safari stops include Build-A-Bear, the Disney Store, and the children's department at John Lewis, with lots of sit-ons and a few games to play. In Liberty London on Great Marlborough Street you can visit its whimsical, beautifully curated children’s section filled with heirloom wooden toys, craft kits, and dress-up gear. Next, on to the mothership: Hamleys and its seven-story temple of live product demos and interactive play zones on Regents Street. You'll be here for a WHILE. There's a LOT to see and buy and play with! When you're free, if you've still got energy, options include: walking 10/15m to Leicester Square's flagship Lego Store to build custom minifigures and see giant brick installations. Or Waterstones Piccadilly - if you have book lovers in tow, take a short detour south to the massive children's department at Waterstones Piccadilly, which also has cosy reading nooks and play spaces. Alternatively, hit up Kingly Court for a snack or dessert in the open-air courtyard at Kingly Court off Carnaby Street. For the truly hardcore, push on to Leicester Square/Covent Garden to watch street performers and explore Benjamin Pollock’s Toyshop—an iconic vintage shop packed with classic puppets, theatrical shadow boxes, and wind-up novelties.
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