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