Planning a family holiday experience in London? Good choice, because the British capital offers world-class places that include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, the London Eye, the Diana Memorial Playground, and many more. The city is a mix of historical landmarks, modern architecture, and green spaces for all kinds of preferences.
Let’s break down all the best landmarks, architecture and outdoor neighbourhoods so you can enjoy a perfect family vacation in London.
Best Museums To Visit With Family
- Natural History Museum: It is the no. 01 spot in London to spend quality learning time with kids and all age groups of the family. Not to mention, the museum provides free admission to see the famous exhibits of dinosaur animatronics and many historical artefacts that are preserved in time.
- British Museum: London is famous for its collection of museums, and the British Museum always stands out for its unique presentation of exhibitions, events and the stories it tells. This museum houses Greek sculptures, Roman artefacts and even Egyptian mummies to provide a highly family-friendly and educational experience.
- Tate Modern: A rather small museum compared to the rest, Tate Modern specialises in modern and contemporary art, with family and art that makes the learning experience even more fun and engaging. What is even better is the power station with free entry for the visitors, making it a highly valuable addition to the best museums.
- Science Museum: As the name implies, the science museum has hands-on galleries and workshops that focus on an educational environment rather than just simple exhibitions. Make sure to confirm any ongoing events, such as the upcoming Halloween-themed exhibitions, to tailor the experience exactly to your preferences.
- London Transport Museum: Apart from dinosaurs, kids really love iconic vehicles and how they have shaped the transport industry that we are living in today. This museum is an engaging spot for all age groups to revisit the history of London’s highly credited transport infrastructure, galleries, exhibitions and year-long events.
Best Historical Royal Attractions For Family Holidays
- Buckingham Palace & Changing Of The Guard: As a highlight of London, Buckingham Palace truly represents the London residence of the British Monarch. It allows visitors to see the changing of the guard, and also explore the interiors of the palace with its royal treasures. There are several personalised tours available that will allow you to enjoy glimpses of the military ceremonies and all the exclusive exhibits.
- Tower Of London: Also recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back 1000 years, this fortress is home to the famous Crown Jewels. Not many are aware of that, but this building has also served as a prison. For a highly educational experience with kids, make sure to book a guided tour to listen to the stories of infamous royal prisoners.
- Westminster Abbey: You do not want to miss out on the historical architecture that shares 1000 years of history with Gothic views and several stories of the significant figures. These include Sir Issac Newton, Laurence Olivier, Anne of Cleves, David Livingstone, and many more.
- Palace Of Westminster: After Buckingham Palace, the Palace of Westminster is not any ordinary building. It is the prime government building in the UK that includes the House of Commons and the House of Lords for the daily political agenda. Visiting the palace can allow you to learn all about the interactive tours and family-friendly audio guides that make exploring this site even more educational.
- Windsor Castle: While travelling in London, there is no way we are going to ignore the castles, like the famous Windsor Castle. Also known as the Royal residence of the British crown, you get the opportunity to enjoy guided audio tours and fun activities like seasonal crafts, scavenger hunts and a variety of workshops. What is even better is that there are several themed trails designed in the castle that can make the kids' day out interactive.
- St. Paul’s Cathedral: Blending history with unique awe-inspiring architecture, St. Paul’s Cathedral has been a prime attraction for a lot of tourists. From the skyline view of London from the dome to the beautiful murals, cafes and special events, the cathedral has everything you need.
- Fenton House & Garden: This 17th-century historical landmark house will make it worth your time with its arts, magnificent orchard, and picnic spots. Away from the city’s hustle and bustle, if you are looking for a tranquil spot to spend time together with your family, then Fenton House and Garden is the right place to go.
- Royal Albert Hall: Victorian architecture, tailored tours, friendly events and diverse exhibitions, Royal Albert Hall is everything that you plan for your family holiday. The building even features all the convenient facilities like a cafe, restaurants and better seating plans to cater for the comfort and safety of all members of your family.
What Are The Best Attractions To Visit In London?
- London Zoo At Regent’s Park: As the oldest zoo in the region, there is no reason to avoid it. Featuring over 750 species of animals surrounded by a natural environment, London gives all animals a perfect sanctuary to live peacefully. Since you are travelling with a family, exploring the Land of the Lions, Penguin Beach and Reptile House is highly rewarding for all age groups.
- Sea Life London Aquarium: If land animals are not enough, you can also see 500 species of sea life at this aquarium. The glass tunnel walk-through with all the sea life floating around makes it an ideal aquarium for family visits.
- London Eye: Among all the historical landmarks, the London Eye is a top choice for visitors because it is the world’s tallest observation wheel with 360 degrees of views of the capital. Make sure to book your tickets ahead of time since they sell fast during the peak season.
- Warner Bros Studio Tour The Making Of Harry Potter Studio: For a true family-friendly vacation experience, there is always a time to visit the Warner Bros Studio in London and go behind the scenes of Harry Potter. The studio is designed with all the set items, costumes, and props exhibits that will easily take you back to the original movie.
- Borough Market: Although not an extravagant attraction, Borough Market is a top spot for families to go for a food shopping spree or even spend an evening with dinner plans. The market features all kinds of fresh produce and British cuisine that you can try out after a long day of travelling between multiple destinations.
- Sky Garden: Surprisingly, this viewpoint is completely free, with its panoramic views of the city of London. And that is not all, the Sky Garden also welcomes visitors with its highest public garden, hosting plenty of plants and green spaces to relax your eyes and mind.
London’s Top Outdoor Spaces For Family Vacation
- Hampstead Heath: Apart from the famous Regent’s Park that also hosts London Zoo, Hampstead Heath is famous for its ancient swimming pools, adventure playgrounds and stunning views of the city of London. Not only that, but Hapstead Heath is also well known for giving the rural experience within the middle of the city, which makes it an even more surprising place for many.
- Richmond Park: Want to see or plan a picnic within a ~2500-acre Royal greenery? You are at Richmond Park for a great treat. From abundant free-roaming deer, green space, rolling landscape and woodland gardens. Not to mention, the park features both scenic walking and cycling trails that make the natural outdoors even more fun and healthy.
- Hyde Park: As London’s largest park, it is famous for its boating on the Serpentine Lake. The Diana Memorial Playground is also nearby, making the overall destination kid-friendly. One of the best things about Hyde Park is its seasonal entertainment activities, such as ice skating and summer concerts.
- Kensington Gardens: As a Royal Park, the Kensington Gardens are preserved in time to provide an iconic outdoor environment that is highly luxurious, calm and natural. Plus, the Royal architecture in the surroundings set the stage for a perfect picnic.
The overall outcome of your London vacation experience depends on how well you have planned out the transport, accommodation and all the sightseeing destinations. There is a diverse range of activities and tourism opportunities available in London, but you only have to pick a few of them to make your experience worth the effort and investment.
Especially, do not lack the importance of a good transport like a private minibus when you are travelling with your family and luggage. Having reliable transport always on your side to assist will relieve you of the stress and last-minute hassle of moving between destinations easily.
