Itineraries for Your Trip to London
3 Days in London for Families
I grew up in London and now return home regularly to acquaint the city with my pocket-sized adventurers. It’s often rightly said that London is a playground for kids, but it’s also true that the traffic and crowds can be overwhelming if you don’t have a plan. With so much for visitors of all ages to enjoy, it’s a family trip worth having. Based on my knowledge of the city, as well as the interests of little ones, here’s a tailor-made itinerary for your three days in London, including toddler-friendly transport entertainment and something a little more hair-raising for the teenagers.
If you only have time for one thing, make it an open-deck double-decker bus tour of London’s top landmarks—kids go wild for Big Ben's clock tower.
These days, summertime in London can get swelteringly hot, so always carry water, sunscreen, and head coverings for the whole family.
If there’s one thing kids love, it’s modes of transportation. Start with a bus tour to motor around sights like Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, and, of course, Big Ben. An open-top double-decker works well for families, saving everyone from foot fatigue and affording a moment’s rest while enjoying the views.
After lunch and a runaround in St. James’s Park, experience another mode of transport with a 20-minute tube ride to Tower Hill, where the ravens, crown jewels, and Beefeaters at the Tower of London are a hit with kids. Pro tip: Hire a kid-friendly guide for history without the scary—or boring—bits.
Another day, another transportation option—this time, take a seamless coach transfer to the out-of-town Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour for a day of magic, including broomstick flying and a glimpse of the original Hogwarts Express steam engine. Or, stay local; Harry Potter-themed tours can revelio hidden gems in the city center.
After a busy day, a Thames River cruise is the perfect way to sneak in quiet time, with views to last a lifetime. Plus, tours often alight at Waterloo Pier on the South Bank, where family-friendly restaurants, theaters, and galleries offer even the littlest travelers a taste of London’s nightlife.
If you’re visiting with slightly older kids, ghost tours are an engaging way to explore the city after dark. Ride a ghost bus around London’s haunted hotspots, with immersive storytelling ensuring a memorable last night.
- What are the best family-friendly attractions to visit in London with kids?
Conveniently, many of London’s top attractions are also easy to explore with young visitors. The ZSL London Zoo is a fast favorite, as is the Harry Potter™ Warner Bros. Studio Tour. The Tower of London—including its Crown Jewels—is also a must-do, while the London Eye’s sky-high views appeal to all.
- What’s the best time of year to visit London with kids?
Summer is the most popular time for families to visit London, but it can be hot and uncomfortable. Spring and autumn generally make for more pleasant sightseeing. The lead-up to London's winter holidays is also a good time to explore, thanks to seasonal events including Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park.
- What are the best neighborhoods in London to stay in with kids?
It’s worth staying in Central London for maximum convenience. Covent Garden and South Kensington are both popular bases for families, as they’re close to many kid-friendly museums and tourist attractions. The South Bank is also well-situated for sightseeing and well-served by public transportation.
- What are the best things to do in London with kids on a rainy day?
Rainy days are the perfect time to take kids to one of London’s world-class museums. The London Transport Museum is a never-fails favorite with young visitors, while the Natural History Museum is home to all kinds of critters. And the Young V&A specifically invites kiddos to play and explore.
- What’s the safest way to get around London with kids?
Thankfully, some of London’s most popular public-transit options also double as kid-friendly routes. The city’s double-decker buses are a great way to keep young visitors entertained on the go, while Uber Boat by Thames Clipper services is a fun way to explore. Then there are London’s classic black cabs, which are roomy enough to fit strollers.