London is a city that seems as if it was made for families and kids. There are plenty of activities and things to see that kids will love and allow them to create life long memories. Traveling internationally with kids can at times be a challenge, but London makes it a bit easier.
With some planning it’s not even as expensive as you might think. After just a short time in the city you’ll quickly realize that London is a pretty fascinating city to visit. Here are some great things to do when visiting London with kids:
Tower of London
This old fortress on the banks of the Thames River has continued to stand guard for centuries. It has served many purposes including defending the surrounding area. It has been used as a prison and even as a place to hold wild animals. The entire grounds are well preserved and interesting to wander and explore.
It’s kind of an inside and outside experience but there’s a lot to see when you’re there. It’s recommended to reserve at least 2 hours to enjoy this landmark. Some highlights include the crown jewels, which are held in the Jewel House.
This collection of royal jewels is breathtaking to see in person and is the stuff of legends. But it’s completely real and a treat to see. There will likely be a line to get in, but the wait will be worth it. Be warned that there are no cameras allowed in the building. Another highlight is the white tower which houses the Armory.
There’s century’s worth of weapons and history stored there. Especially exciting is the full knight’s armor that is on display. There are also interactive exhibits for kids to enjoy. If they want to see what it’s like to shoot a bow and arrow or wield a knights sword, this is something that they’ll thoroughly enjoy.
British Museum
One of the premier museums in the world calls London its home and you want to be sure to visit it when in London. Admission is free so that’s a bonus, but even if there was a cost; you’d want to make space in your itinerary for this remarkable collection.
The Assyrian and Egyptian collection is world renowned and is a must see. It would be worth the trip if for no other reason than to see the winged bulls and lions. But there’s oh so much more to see. There’s plenty of mummies and sarcophagi and other cool stuff in the Egyptian exhibit as well. Then there’s the Rosetta Stone, The Lewis Chessman. Kids will also love their gift shop. This is a museum that is awesome enough to capture and hold the attention of adults and young ones alike.
There’s a families desk which provides backpacks and family activity trails for your kids to use on weekend visits to the museum. For purchase, there are also family audio guides available.
Hyde Park
The Parks is always a nice break from a day full of sightseeing. This massive park in the heart of London is close to many attractions so you don’t have to go out of your way to enjoy it. There’s ponds, boating, a playground, plenty of green space to enjoy and other activities to enjoy.
Princess Diana Playground
This playground is in Hyde Park not far from Kensington Palace. It contains a large pirate ship and sand for kids to play in. This is truly a unique experience and a great place for kids to play. It’s a secure area and one of the more popular playgrounds in London.
Buckingham Palace
This enormous palace is the home of the Queen and British Monarchy’s seat of power. It’s free to get a good look at the palace and surrounding areas which are quite striking. The memorial to Queen Victoria sits in the square in front of the palace and is impressive in its own right. If kids love palaces they’ll enjoy being able to see this palace. There are tours of the palace but only for about ten weeks of the year. This is usually during the months of July to September. Be sure to make your reservation ahead of time to go on the tour.
Kids will certainly be captivated by the changing of the guard. The ceremony lasts for about 45 minutes and takes place every day between April and July. Take a look at the schedule to be sure that you don’t miss it. This unique ceremony with all of the pomp and circumstance that British royalty can offer is something the kids will never forget. Be sure that you arrive early to get a good spot.
Hamleys
The largest and oldest toy store in the world is in London. If you’re in London with kids you absolutely have to make a trip to this spectacular store. Even if you don’t have kids with you, you owe it to your inner child to visit this store. Seven floors filled with every toy you can think of (and some you couldn’t think of) is every kid’s dream. It’s a place that you can easily and happily lose yourself in. It’s a place that is simply a lot of fun.
Jubilee Gardens Playground
This playground probably has one of the best views for any playground that you’ll ever visit. Nestled up against the Thames River and near the Eye of London, it’s the perfect spot to stop for some play time. There are plenty of activities in the playground for kids to play with and on.
** This is a great guest blog post from Jeremiah Smiles On Arrival – Jeremiah and Rita are travelling with their two children.