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.
Times change seasonally — always check before you set off.
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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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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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