Family Travel/London

London Kids Travel Guide

Discover the The Big Smoke. Plan a perfect kid-friendly family adventure with local tips and curated day-by-day itineraries.

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Best Time

May to September

⚠️

Avoid

January and February

✈️

Arrival

Heathrow Airport

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Transport

London Underground (Tube) and red double-decker buses; kids under 11 travel free with a paying adult.

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Rating

9.5 / 10

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Travel Insights

Select Date:

Expected Weather (September)

12°C - 20°C

Mild, sunny

Expected Crowds (September)

Medium

Hydrate & wear light cottons! 🥤

Choose Your Duration

Pick how long you plan to stay in London using the selector below.👇

Aesthetic Summary

Perfect for Families with kids 3-12 who love castles, boats, and big views

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DAY 1

Kings, Boats, and Big Wheels

🗺️ Today's Route

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

Watch the King's Guard march with a brass band at Buckingham Palace (forecourt and Victoria Memorial). Arrive early for a front-row spot near the Victoria Memorial steps.

Kid-proof

Kids love the marching soldiers, horses, and loud band music. Bring a small step-stool or sit on a parent's shoulders for better views.

Pro Tip

Check the official website for guard-change days (usually Mon/Wed/Fri/Sun at 11:00 AM). Stand near the Victoria Memorial for the best photos.

Free event. Nearest Tube: Victoria, Green Park, or St James's Park. Arrive by 9:30 AM for a good view.

🎒 Pack for this:

Small step-stoolSnacksWater bottleCamera

St James's Park Playground & Pelicans

10:45 AM - 1:00 PM

Walk through St James's Park to the huge adventure playground near the Blue Bridge. See the famous pelicans being fed at 2:30 PM (if timing works) and enjoy the lake views.

Kid-proof

The playground has swings, slides, and a sand pit. Kids can spot ducks, swans, and pelicans.

Pro Tip

There are clean toilets and a kiosk for coffee. The park is stroller-friendly with paved paths.

Free. Pelican feeding daily at 2:30 PM (check seasonal times). Nearest Tube: St James's Park.

🎒 Pack for this:

Sun hatSunscreenPicnic blanketHand sanitizer

Lunch at Southbank Centre Food Market

1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

Grab lunch from the street food stalls at Southbank Centre Food Market (behind Royal Festival Hall). Options include pizza, burgers, crepes, and gelato.

Kid-proof

Kid-friendly portions and plenty of choices. There are benches and open space for kids to run around.

Pro Tip

Go before 1:30 PM to avoid the longest queues. Cash and cards accepted.

Open Fri-Sun, 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM. Nearest Tube: Waterloo.

🎒 Pack for this:

Wet wipesReusable cutlerySmall backpack

Thames RIB Speedboat Ride

2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Board a Thames RIB speedboat at London Eye Pier for a 50-minute high-speed thrill ride down the Thames to Canary Wharf and back, with music and commentary.

Kid-proof

Kids 3+ can ride; life jackets provided. Expect splashes and fast turns—great for thrill-seekers.

Pro Tip

Book online in advance for discounts. Not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems.

Approx £35-£45 per adult, £25-£35 per child. Departs from London Eye Pier (Waterloo).

🎒 Pack for this:

Waterproof jacketChange of clothes for kidsSunglasses strap

Lastminute.com London Eye

3:30 PM - 5:00 PM

Ride the 135-meter Ferris wheel in a glass capsule for 360-degree views of London. The full rotation takes about 30 minutes.

Kid-proof

Kids love the height and spotting Big Ben, the Thames, and Buckingham Palace. Capsules are enclosed and safe.

Pro Tip

Book fast-track tickets online to skip queues. Go late afternoon for sunset views.

Approx £30-£40 per adult, £25-£35 per child. Nearest Tube: Waterloo.

🎒 Pack for this:

CameraBinoculars for kidsSnack bars

SEA LIFE London Aquarium

5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Explore underwater tunnels, shark tanks, penguin exhibits, and a touch pool at the SEA LIFE London Aquarium next to the London Eye.

Kid-proof

Kids can see sharks, rays, and penguins up close. The glass tunnel is a highlight.

Pro Tip

Book combo tickets with the London Eye for savings. Last entry is usually 6:00 PM.

Approx £25-£35 per person. Nearest Tube: Waterloo.

🎒 Pack for this:

CameraLight jacket (air conditioning)

Dinner at Giraffe World Kitchen, Southbank

6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Family-friendly restaurant on the Southbank with a global menu including burgers, noodles, and kids' meals with activity sheets.

Kid-proof

Kids' menu with crayons and puzzles. High chairs available.

Pro Tip

Reserve a table or arrive before 7:00 PM. Views of the Thames.

Approx £12-£18 per main. Nearest Tube: Waterloo.

🎒 Pack for this:

Comfortable shoesLight sweater

💡 Daily Pro Tips

•Buy an Oyster card or use contactless payment for the Tube; kids under 11 travel free.
•Book major attractions online in advance to save money and time.
•Carry a refillable water bottle—London tap water is safe and free.
•Wear comfortable shoes; you'll walk 5-8 km.

Frequently Asked Questions about London

What is the best time to visit London with kids?▼

The best time to visit London with children is May to September. Avoid travelling during January and February.

How do I get around London with children?▼

In London, families typically use London Underground (Tube) and red double-decker buses; kids under 11 travel free with a paying adult.. Always confirm child-seat availability in advance.

What airport serves London?▼

Heathrow Airport

What languages are spoken in London?▼

The primary languages in London are English. English is generally understood in tourist areas.

Is London safe for family travel?▼

London is generally safe for families. KidsVentura itineraries are designed with child safety in mind — we recommend kid-friendly attractions, restaurants with high chairs, and comfortable transit routes.

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