101 of London's Best Things to do with Kids

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.

Paddington Bear has returned to his rightful place at Paddington Station, once again welcoming travellers 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. However, this may not be his final stop as 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 honour this connection, a life-sized bronze statue of Paddington Bear takes pride of place at the station.

Hidden in Wapping, Execution Dock was where pirates met their grim fate for over 400 years. Maritime criminals, including the infamous Captain Kidd, were hanged here, their bodies left for three tides as a warning. Today, a noose near the Town of Ramsgate pub marks the spot. Stroll along the Thames, soak up Wapping’s maritime past and enjoy a pint at the historic Prospect of Whitby. Nearby, explore St Katharine Docks or the atmospheric Wilton’s Music Hall. A must visit for history lovers, this eerie yet fascinating site offers a glimpse into London’s seafaring past.

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!

Step aboard Cutty Sark and step back to an era when speed ruled the seas. Built in 1869 for the lucrative tea trade, this sleek clipper was once among the fastest ships afloat, racing across oceans to deliver the freshest cargo from China. Later, she made her mark transporting wool from Australia, breaking records and capturing imaginations. Now permanently docked in Greenwich, Cutty Sark has been raised three metres above her dry dock, allowing visitors to wander beneath her gleaming copper hull, a rare perspective on a ship of her kind. Explore her decks, grasp the ship's wheel, and marvel at the towering rigging. Inside, discover tales of life at sea and the ambitious conservation project that saved her for future generations. Round off your visit with afternoon tea beneath the ship’s shimmering frame, a nod to the precious cargo she once carried to Britain’s shores.

Moored on the Thames near Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast is a World War II warship turned museum. This mighty Royal Navy cruiser saw action on D-Day and in the Arctic convoys. Today, visitors can explore its nine decks, from the gun turrets to the engine rooms, experiencing what life was like for the 950 sailors on board. Kids love the interactive exhibits and Captain’s bridge, while history buffs can dive into wartime stories. With stunning river views and hands-on activities, HMS Belfast is a must for families and history lovers exploring London’s maritime past.

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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 Charterhouse in London is a hidden gem for families, offering a fascinating journey through history. Once a medieval monastery, later a Tudor mansion and school, it’s now a living museum with guided tours and interactive exhibits. Kids will love exploring the ancient cloisters, hearing stories of monks and knights and spotting centuries-old graffiti. The Charterhouse Square provides a peaceful spot for a break, while the museum’s family-friendly activities bring the past to life. A visit here offers a quieter, more immersive experience than London’s big attractions, perfect for young history lovers and curious minds.

The Science Museum in London is a fantastic destination for kids, offering hands-on exhibits and interactive galleries that make learning fun. From space exploration in the Exploring Space gallery to the exciting Wonderlab, where children can experiment with physics, there’s something for all ages. The Pattern Pod and The Garden are perfect for younger visitors, while the flight simulators and real Apollo 10 command module thrill older kids. Free entry makes it a budget-friendly choice, though some attractions require tickets. Arrive early to explore at a relaxed pace and make the most of this engaging, educational adventure.

Mudlarking on the Thames is an exciting way for families to explore London’s history hands on. As the river’s tide recedes, hidden treasures emerge: fragments of pottery, old coins and even centuries-old artifacts. Kids will love the thrill of discovery while learning about the past. The best spots include the foreshore near Millennium Bridge and Greenwich, but a permit from the Port of London Authority is required for searching. Dress for mess, bring gloves and check tide times before heading out. It’s a unique, budget-friendly adventure that turns the Thames into a real life time capsule for curious explorers.

Kew Gardens is a fantastic destination for families, offering a mix of nature, adventure and discovery. Kids can explore the Treetop Walkway, run wild in the Children’s Garden and spot exotic plants in the towering glasshouses. The Hive, an immersive installation, lets them experience life inside a beehive, while the Japanese Garden and lake provide peaceful spots to wander. Seasonal trails and activities keep visits exciting year-round. Pack a picnic or enjoy one of the cafés and don’t forget to stop by the log trail for some climbing fun. It’s a perfect outdoor escape just a short train ride from central London.

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. Entry is free, but booking ahead is essential, with tickets released up to three weeks in advance. Security checks are swift, and soon enough you'll be gliding up to the 43rd floor, where the buzz of the city feels a world away beneath the canopy of the capital’s highest public garden.

Perched 15 storeys above Fenchurch Street, The Garden at 120 is the City of London’s largest rooftop terrace, offering breathtaking 360 degree views of the skyline. Free to visit and accessible via a dedicated lift, it’s a peaceful oasis where you can soak in sights of The Gherkin, The Shard and the Walkie Talkie building. With wildflowers, manicured hedges and a 200 foot water feature, it’s the perfect spot for a midday break or a lazy afternoon. Visitors can bring their own food and drinks, though alcohol isn’t permitted. Open daily, this hidden gem is just a short walk from Monument and Tower Hill stations.