London is one of the most exciting cities in the world, with attractions and activities to delight visitors of all ages. From world-famous museums and landmarks to parks, tours, shows, and more, there are endless options for family fun in London. In this article we talk about Family-Friendly Activities in London In 2024.
Table of Contents
Toddlers (Ages 0-4)
London is a very walkable city, so just exploring different neighborhoods can be an adventure with a toddler in tow. Many of the major parks like Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and St. James’s Park have playgrounds and wide open spaces for little ones to run around. Go for a ride on the London Eye or hop aboard one of the many child-friendly London bus tours to see the sights. Indoor playgrounds like Monkey Bizness and Timbuktu offer equipment and activities for energetic toddlers. Catch a show like Disney on Ice at the O2 or see farm animals up close at Vauxhall City Farm.
Young Kids (Ages 5-7)
In addition to the above activities, slightly older kids can appreciate more hands-on museum experiences like the London Transport Museum or Museum of Childhood. Go back in time aboard the Golden Hinde, a replica 16th century galleon docked in London. Kids this age also enjoy storytelling, so take in a children’s theater performance at the Unicorn Theatre. Little foodies will love baking sweet treats at the Chocolate Museum or making their own candy at Candy Mechanics. End the day with an illuminated boat cruise along the River Thames.
Pre-Teens (Ages 8-12)
This age range is ready for London’s most iconic sites. Explore the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and other famous landmarks. Get up close and personal with dinosaurs and other creatures at the Natural History Museum. See a West End musical like Matilda or School of Rock. Family-friendly shows like Horrible Histories or Gangsta Granny, based on books by David Walliams, also appeal to this age group. Go for an adrenaline rush on the thrilling rides in amusement parks like Chessington World of Adventures or Thorpe Park. At night, enjoy a fun family show at The London Dungeon.
Teens (Ages 13 and up)
As kids grow into teens, they can appreciate London’s vibrant culture. See a concert at iconic venues like Wembley Stadium or O2 Arena. Check out Platform 9 3⁄4 at King’s Cross Station and other must-see Harry Potter sites. Take a street art tour to discover London’s cool urban art scene. Ride The London Eye at sunset or get a bird’s eye view of the city from The Shard’s observation deck. Go on a Jack the Ripper walking tour or ghost tour for some age-appropriate scares. Teens may also enjoy escape rooms and virtual reality experiences offered in London.
Rainy Days
London weather can be temperamental, so having some rainy day backup plans is a good idea when visiting with family. Skip the queues and see exhibits come to life at the London Film Museum or London Bridge Experience. Play arcade games at Namco Funscape or Tenpin bowling alley. Go underwater at Sea Life London Aquarium or climb into the treetops at Go Ape adventure course. See an IMAX movie on London’s biggest screen at the Science Museum. Finally, do some shopping at one of London’s many kid-friendly stores like Hamleys toy shop, M&M’s World, and Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 3⁄4.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
Whatever the weather, London boasts many excellent parks and outdoor spaces perfect for family playtime. Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens offer ample room to run around plus boating lakes and playgrounds. Regent’s Park has a huge outdoor playground, water playground, and petting zoo. Take a train ride at Kew Gardens or explore its treetop walkway. Go paddle boating on the Serpentine or try your hand at lawn bowling in Queen’s Park. Little ones can burn off energy at Diana Memorial Playground, while older kids will love skateboarding at House of Vans. When it’s sunny, enjoy a picnic in Green Park or take the cable car over the Thames from North Greenwich.
Free Museums
One of the best things about London for families is the astounding number of free museums covering subjects to fascinate all ages. The Science Museum and Natural History Museum offer hands-on exhibits to ignite kids’ curiosity. The V&A Museum of Childhood features toys and games through the ages. The British Museum houses Egyptian mummies, samurai warriors and more. The National Gallery has free art workshops and trails for kids. War buffs of all ages appreciate the Imperial War Museum. Other free favorites include the National Maritime Museum, Museum of London, Royal Air Force Museum, and Sir John Soane’s Museum.
Performances
Captivating kids’ theatre brings classic stories to life on stage in London’s West End. The Lion King musical at the Lyceum Theatre has eye-popping visuals. Shows like Matilda at Cambridge Theatre or Disney’s Frozen at Theatre Royal Drury Lane appeal to princess lovers. Watch Charlie and the Chocolate Factory come to life or get spooked by the ghostly goings-on in The Woman in Black. Take teens to Wicked, Mamma Mia!, or The Play That Goes Wrong for laughs. Younger kids love the magic of David Walliams’ Gangsta Granny and Awful Auntie shows. The London Palladium also hosts annual Christmas pantos like Cinderella.
The above family-friendly activities reveal just a sampling of the fun in store with kids of all interests and ages when visiting England’s exciting capital city. From museums to parks, tours, theatre, and adventure, London offers interactive fun and entertainment options to delight the whole family. I sincerely hope you find this “Family-Friendly Activities in London In 2024-Fun for All Ages” article helpful.
With over 5 years of experience exploring London’s diverse neighborhoods and a background in urban studies, our author brings a blend of expert knowledge and personal insights to alondonlist.com. Passionate about uncovering the city’s hidden gems and cultural hotspots, they offer readers practical tips and authentic experiences for making the most of London. Follow their adventures on Instagram.
