20 Things To Do in London for under £10
Looking for some ideas to keep your kids entertained in London? We have put together a few of our favourites.
Visit London's Highest Public Garden - The Sky Garden
Soaring 160 metres above the city, the Sky Garden offers one of London’s most impressive vantage points. Set atop the ‘Walkie Talkie’ building, this lush indoor oasis combines sweeping views with landscaped greenery, giving visitors a chance to stroll among exotic plants while taking in the skyline through floor to ceiling glass. The observation decks and open air terrace reveal London’s landmarks from every angle, from the Shard to St Paul’s Cathedral. For those keen to linger, two sleek bars and two restaurants serve up cocktails and contemporary British dishes, all with a backdrop that’s hard to beat.
Address: 1 Sky Garden Walk, EC3M 8AF
Discover Covent Garden's Most Colourful Corner
Tucked between Monmouth Street and Short’s Gardens, Neal’s Yard is one of London’s prettiest little secrets – though word is definitely out. This hidden courtyard just off Seven Dials is a pocket-sized escape packed with colour, character and calm. Its rainbow-hued buildings, tumbling greenery and indie spirit make it a favourite for photographers and people-watchers alike. Within the courtyard, you’ll find a cluster of independent cafés, shops and wellness spots. Sip organic coffee, browse beauty essentials or settle in for lunch in one of its laid-back eateries. Inspired by the free-spirited vibe of Copenhagen’s Christiania, it offers a refreshingly slow pace, despite being only a five-minute walk from Covent Garden Tube.
Address: 15 Neal's Yard, London, Greater London, England
Find a Tropical Oasis within the Barbican Conservatory
The Barbican Conservatory, an unexpected oasis amidst the architectural marvel that is the Barbican Centre, offers a serene respite from the urban whirl of London. The city's second largest conservatory is home to a lush array of tropical flora, towering palms and exotic fish, creating an enchanting and soothing environment. As visitors wander through this botanical wonderland, they encounter a harmonious blend of art, nature and architecture, a testament to the Barbican's visionary design ethos. The conservatory also hosts a myriad of cultural events, making it a dynamic hub for those who appreciate the arts in all its forms.
Address: Silk St, EC2Y 8DS
Explore London's most beautiful bookshop
Daunt Books in Marylebone is a sanctuary for book lovers. Housed in a light-infused Edwardian building, it boasts a rich selection of travel literature, fiction and non-fiction. The store's architectural beauty, with its herringbone parquet floors and a galleried interior, adds to the charm of exploring its vast collection. It's a haven for browsers, where time slows and the scent of pages old and new fills the air. The knowledgeable staff offer tailored recommendations, embodying their passion for literature.
Address: 84 Marylebone High St, W1U 4QW
Find Harry Potter's Diagon Alley in Leadenhall Market.
Leadenhall Market, a hidden gem in London’s financial district, is a must visit for Harry Potter fans. Its stunning Victorian architecture and cobbled walkways served as the backdrop for Diagon Alley in the films. Head to Bull’s Head Passage to find the famous blue door that stood in for the Leaky Cauldron’s entrance. Easily accessible via Monument and Bank stations, the market is open daily, though shop hours vary. Whether you're here for the magical connection or the market’s charm, Leadenhall is a captivating spot to explore.
Address: Gracechurch St, EC3V 1LT
Follow in the footsteps of Doctor Who at Shad Thames
Doctor Who, the iconic British sci fi series, has featured many London locations, but one of the city's most atmospheric spots is Shad Thames. This historic riverside area near Tower Bridge is known for its striking iron footbridges connecting former Victorian warehouses. With its cobbled streets and industrial aesthetic, Shad Thames has the perfect cinematic feel for time travel adventures. While not a major Doctor Who filming location, its moody, timeless quality would suit the show’s eerie, futuristic, or period settings. Fans of both London history and the Doctor’s journeys can easily imagine the TARDIS materializing in this evocative riverside district.
Address: Shad Thames, SE1
Visit London's Home of Design
The Design Museum in Kensington is a compelling centre for creativity, offering a deep dive into design's ever-changing influence on society. Relocated in 2016, this architectural beauty, a revamped Commonwealth Institute, champions contemporary design through its diverse exhibitions. Covering fashion, furniture, graphics and more, it aims to demystify design for professionals and enthusiasts alike. With a multitude of programmes, workshops and the Design of the Year Award, it invites visitors to consider design's role in everyday life, promoting innovation and thoughtful analysis of our surroundings.
Address: 224-238 Kensington High St, W8 6AG
Explore the ruins of St Dunstan-in-the-East
St Dunstan in the East, a historic London site with 900-year-old origins, symbolises the city's resilience. Initially damaged in the Great Fire of London in 1666 and later in the 1941 blitz during World War II, it now stands as a serene public garden amidst the city's hustle and bustle. Sir Christopher Wren's architectural legacy is evident in the remaining tower, around which nature has woven a verdant tapestry of trees and vines, offering a tranquil retreat. This blend of medieval architecture and lush greenery against the modern skyline highlights London's capacity for renewal. It's a peaceful oasis where visitors can reflect on the beauty that emerges from history's trials, embodying the city's enduring spirit and its continuous transformation.
Address: St Dunstan's Hill, EC3R 5DD
Discover the Magna Carta at the British Library
The Magna Carta, one of history’s most significant legal documents, is on display at the British Library in London. Sealed by King John in 1215, this groundbreaking charter established the principle that no one, not even the monarch, is above the law. It laid the groundwork for constitutional governance and influenced legal systems worldwide, including the U.S. Constitution. The British Library houses two of the four surviving original copies, showcased in the Treasures Gallery alongside other pivotal historical documents. Interactive exhibits bring its legacy to life, making it a must visit for history buffs and legal enthusiasts.
Address: 96 Euston Rd, NW1 2DB
Return to Hogwarts from Platform 9 ¾
For fans of J.K. Rowling’s beloved Harry Potter series, King’s Cross Station is a must visit landmark in London. This bustling railway hub is where young witches and wizards board the Hogwarts Express, provided they can find their way onto Platform 9¾. In the wizarding world, Harry and his friends dash through a seemingly solid brick wall between platforms 9 and 10 to reach their magical train. In reality, the numbered platforms at King’s Cross are separated by tracks, but you’ll find the famous Platform 9¾ nestled along the station concourse, complete with a luggage trolley disappearing into the wall. Planning to visit? Expect queues, especially during school holidays and festive seasons. Arriving early will give you the best chance to beat the crowds and snap that perfect picture.
Address: King’s Cross, Euston Rd, N1C 4AP
Go Neon Crazy at God’s Own Junkyard
Address: Unit 12, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall St, E17 9HQ
God’s Own Junkyard is a dazzling treasure trove of handmade neon signs, lighting up an old warehouse in Walthamstow. Curated by third generation neon artisan Marcus Bracey, it doubles as an art gallery, Instagram hotspot, signage recycler and prop shop for films and photo shoots. The collection includes thousands of signs and figures, from cheerful diner and hotel emblems to neon-trimmed religious images and retro Soho-inspired displays. This psychedelic paradise is the legacy of the late Chris Bracey, the ‘Neon Man’, who started making signs for Soho’s clubs before Hollywood directors like Kubrick and Burton took notice. Entry is free, with donations encouraged.
Visit the Largest Lego Store in the WORLD!
London is home to the biggest LEGO store on the planet! This flagship store in Leicester Square spans an impressive 914 square metres across two levels, offering an immersive experience for brick enthusiasts of all ages. The show-stopping highlight? A 6.8 metre tall Big Ben replica, painstakingly constructed from 200,000 LEGO bricks over 2,280 hours. This striking model doesn’t just stand tall, it also features a working clock face that illuminates at night, adding a touch of magic to the store’s grand design.
Address: 3 Swiss Ct, W1D 6AP Temple
Spot Art made from chewing gum on Millenium Bridge
London’s Millennium Bridge, linking St Paul’s Cathedral to Tate Modern, is more than just a stunning river crossing, it’s also an open air art gallery. Look down and you might spot tiny, colourful paintings on discarded chewing gum! These miniature masterpieces are the work of Ben Wilson, a street artist who transforms litter into art. His intricate, hand painted scenes often reflect London life, history and personal stories. A hidden gem amid the city’s landmarks, Wilson’s work adds a playful, unexpected layer to this famous bridge, so next time you cross, don’t forget to look down!
Address: 57 Wapping Wall, E1W 3SH
Explore the Street Art of Brick Lane
Wandering down Brick Lane is like flicking through the pages of an ever changing urban art gallery. The area’s walls, shutters and alleyways are a canvas for some of the world’s most renowned street artists, from Banksy to ROA, alongside a steady stream of emerging talent. Murals, tags and wheat paste posters jostle for space, turning every corner into a fresh discovery. While the street art scene alone is enough to warrant a visit, Brick Lane’s appeal stretches further. Browse vintage treasures at markets, dip into independent galleries, or pause for a salt beef bagel or plate of fragrant curry, the latter giving rise to its moniker as the ‘Curry Capital of the UK’.
Address: Bethnal Green, E1 6PU
Buy some flowers from Columbia Road
Columbia Road Flower Market is London at its most colourful. Every Sunday, this narrow East End street transforms into a fragrant corridor of blooms, where traders call out prices and armfuls of tulips, roses and houseplants change hands at speed. The market, which dates back to 1869, draws a lively crowd of locals and visitors alike, all in search of a little botanical joy. Beyond the flowers, Columbia Road is a destination in its own right. The street is lined with more than 60 independent shops and cafés everything from antique dealers and art galleries to bakeries and delis many of which only open on market days. Arrive early to beat the crowds and bag the best stems, or drop by later for the chance of a cheeky deal as traders wind down. Just don’t forget your tote bag you’ll leave with more than you planned.
Address: Columbia Rd, Bethnal Green, E2 7RG
Try London's best crepe at the world famous La Crêperie de Hampstead
La Crêperie de Hampstead, a beloved crêpe spot just off Hampstead High Street, has earned a stellar reputation for its mouthwatering crêpes. This small stall attracts eager crowds daily with its flawless mix of crisped to perfection crêpes, cooked with a touch of butter. The menu offers both savoury options, like cheese, ham, asparagus, mushroomsand garlicand sweet delights such as banana with Belgian chocolate topped with crunchy nuts. Founded in 1977 by Chef Edward De Mesquita, La Crêperie de Hampstead has become a local institution.
Address: 77a Hampstead High St, NW3 1RE
Watch chocolate being made at Harrod's new Chocolate Hall
Step inside Harrods' gleaming Chocolate Hall and you’ll find more than just confections it’s a full sensory spectacle. As part of the store’s lavishly restored Food Halls, this dedicated space marks a delicious tribute to Harrods’ 150 year love affair with chocolate. Here, some of the world’s finest chocolatiers share shelf space with Harrods’ own handcrafted creations, made live on site in the Chocolaterie. Watch through glass as skilled artisans temper, pipe and glaze their way through trays of ganache filled truffles and pralines. Every detail has been considered, from the black alabaster light well casting a soft glow on restored Edwardian marble, to the curated offerings from names like Pierre Marcolini and William Curley. It’s also the only UK department store producing its own chocolate on site, with an emphasis on responsibly sourced cocoa and support for farming communities. Equal parts heritage and indulgence, the Chocolate Hall offers a reason to linger and sample.
Address: 87-135 Brompton Rd, SW1X 7XL
Go back in time at the British Museum
Time-travel without leaving London! Gaze at ancient Egyptian mummies, Roman coins, Viking treasures, and the legendary Rosetta Stone. This iconic museum is vast, but free trails and kids’ guides help families focus. Whether you’re into history or hieroglyphics, it’s an awe-inspiring place to spark young imaginations.
Address: Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG
Explore humanity’s impact on biodiversity at the Grant Museum of Zoology
Weird and wonderful! This pocket-sized museum is packed with skeletons, stuffed animals, and jars of biological oddities — including a famous jar of moles. Budding zoologists and science-loving kids will be fascinated. It’s a bit spooky, a bit strange, and totally unforgettable. Tucked away at UCL in Bloomsbury.
Address: Rockefeller Building, 21 University St, London WC1E 6DE
Graffiti at Leake Street Arches
Beneath the railway tracks near Waterloo Station, Leake Street Arches offers a thrilling blend of art, food and underground culture. Once a disused Eurostar passage, the tunnel shot to fame after Banksy's 2008 "Cans Festival" brought its soot-stained walls to life. Today, it's London’s longest legal graffiti gallery, where artists of all calibres are welcome to leave their mark — though their creations might last hours or days, depending on who comes along next.
Address: Leake St Tunnel, Waterloo, SE1 7NN
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