FREE things to do with Kids in London

Looking for some ideas to keep your kids entertained in London? We have put together a few of our favourites.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum in London is a fantastic place to take kids, offering a mix of education and adventure. From the towering T-Rex skeleton to the shimmering Hope Diamond, children will be mesmerized by the exhibits. The Investigate Centre lets them become little scientists, while the Earth Hall’s earthquake simulator adds excitement. The Butterfly House (seasonal) and interactive Dinosaur Gallery are must-sees. Best of all, entry is free! Arrive early to beat the crowds and don’t forget to explore the museum’s stunning Hintze Hall. It’s a perfect indoor outing for curious young minds.

The Imperial War Museum

The Imperial War Museum offers a compelling look at modern warfare and its impact on people’s lives, from the First World War to today. Set in a striking South London building, the museum houses tanks, aircraft, and immersive exhibits, including the powerful Holocaust Galleries. Personal stories and artefacts bring history to life, making it an engaging and often moving experience. With free entry, it’s an essential visit for those interested in history, conflict, and human resilience.

See a Knight in Shining Armour at the Wallace Collection

Located in Marylebone, The Wallace Collection of fine and decorative arts is a cultural jewel. This grand mansion, a gift from the 19th century to the modern world, hosts masterpieces from Titian to Velázquez and includes the curious smile of Hals' Laughing Cavalier. Its lavish rooms abound with paintings, furniture, gleaming suits of armour and French porcelain, inviting you into a world where beauty and history converge. Described by The Guardian newspaper as, 'One of the sexiest collections in Europe,' The Wallace Collection is an immersion into an age of splendour, designed to evoke the lives and tastes of its founders, making it a must-see for any lover of art and history.


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