10 of London's Best Free
Things to do with Kids
Looking for some ideas to keep your kids entertained this holiday? We have put together 10 of our favourite FREE things to do...
1. Explore London's most beautiful bookshop
Location - 84 Marylebone High St, W1U 4QW
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.
2. Find Paddington Bear
Location - 19 Eastbourne Terrace, London W2 6LG
Paddington Bear has returned to his rightful place at Paddington Station, once again welcoming travelers from his home on Platform 1. Having made the short journey from the station entrance near Praed Street, he now sits beneath the station clock, a familiar sight for those passing through this historic London hub. While this may not be his final stop, Network Rail is set to announce his permanent home later this year. For fans of the beloved bear, Paddington Station holds special significance—it was here, amidst the hustle and bustle, that Mr. and Mrs. Brown first discovered him, a small bear from Peru with a love for marmalade and a tag that read, *"Please look after this bear. Thank you."* It was this very station that gave him his name, forever linking him to one of London’s most iconic landmarks. To honor this connection, a life-sized bronze statue of Paddington Bear takes pride of place at the station. Created by sculptor Marcus Cornish, the statue was unveiled on 24 February 2000 by none other than Michael Bond, the author who first brought Paddington’s adventures to life. Whether you’re arriving, departing, or simply passing through, a visit to see Paddington himself is a must for any traveler, young or old.
3. Explore the ruins of St Dunstan-in-the-East
Location - St Dunstan's Hill, EC3R 5DD
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.
4. Find The Seven Noses of Soho
Location - Throughout Soho
Tucked away on unassuming walls, peeking out from the fabric of the city, the Seven Noses of Soho are one of London’s most peculiar urban legends. Sculpted by artist Rick Buckley in 1997 as a cheeky protest against the rise of CCTV surveillance, these life-sized noses were secretly affixed to buildings across the city. Originally, there were around thirty-five, but most have disappeared over time, leaving just seven scattered around Soho and Covent Garden. A local myth claims that anyone who finds all of them will achieve great wealth, though the true reward is the thrill of discovery itself. Hidden in plain sight, these noses have become a quirky scavenger hunt for curious explorers, blending street art, protest, and urban folklore into one of London’s most unusual mysteries.
5. Discover the Magna Carta at the British Library
Location - 96 Euston Rd., London NW1 2DB
The **Magna Carta**, one of the world’s most influential legal documents, is proudly displayed at the **British Library** in London. Sealed by King John in 1215, this historic charter established the principle that no one, not even the king, is above the law. It laid the foundation for constitutional government and inspired legal systems worldwide, including the U.S. Constitution. The British Library houses two of the four surviving original copies, displayed in its **Treasures Gallery** alongside other landmark documents. Visitors can explore its rich history through interactive exhibits, making it a must-see for history lovers and legal enthusiasts alike.
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