There’s no denying that my house metropolis will be costly – however with so many free issues to do in London with youngsters, there are many household days out that received’t value you a penny.
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Whether or not you’re in search of an affordable time out in London with youngsters, need to combine some funds choices in with the pricier household points of interest, or fancy a problem like seeing London for lower than £5 per day, these are my prime picks.
From main London landmarks to the perfect inexperienced areas within the metropolis, London’s prime free museums, playgrounds and even Harry Potter areas in London, you’ll have loads of money left for souvenirs.
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See London’s sights totally free
Palaces, historic landmarks, even some conventional ceremonies which return centuries – these free issues to do with youngsters in London are unmissable.
In the event you’re able to get strolling, I’ve received a self-guided strolling tour route of London’s landmarks which can take you previous all the important thing sights with out spending a penny.
The entire stroll stretches for seven miles, however if you happen to – understandably – don’t fancy doing that each one in at some point with youngsters, you may also break up this free London strolling route into smaller sections.
See Tower Bridge rise
With its blue and white ornament, Tower Bridge is a London icon (and no, it’s not known as London Bridge). And you may also see Tower Bridge raise round 800 instances a 12 months.
The central sections will be raised to permit bigger boats to sail into the Higher Pool of London – technically the bridge is a mixed suspension and bascule bridge – and the instances are revealed prematurely.
You may get a few of the greatest views of Tower Bridge opening from the financial institution too, with viewpoints on the north financial institution close to the Tower of London and in direction of St Katherine’s Pier – spot the lady with a dolphin fountain as you do – or on the south financial institution close to HMS Belfast or round Butler’s Wharf.
Test the freshest schedule of bridge raise instances.
For extra concepts on how to economize on days out in London with youngsters, try my prime suggestions
Bonus: Tower of London – The Ceremony of the Keys
On the close by Tower of London, the historic Ceremony of the Keys is unfortunately not utterly free. The £5 payment per ticket continues to be nicely price it to look at historical past in motion although, one of the uncommon issues to do in London with youngsters.
Again within the 14th century, Edward III was livid to find he may stroll into the Tower of London unchallenged – and decreed the fortress needs to be locked at sundown and unlocked at dawn from that time on. And the custom continues to today, with the go to now beginning at 9.30pm: tickets out there from the beginning of the month, have to be prebooked.
Take a look at my expertise of watching the Ceremony of the Keys with youngsters
Have a look at Buckingham Palace
If you’d like a glimpse of the State Flats at Buckingham Palace, it received’t come low-cost – however taking a look on the sweeping façade (and checking to see if the royal household is at house), comes completely free.
In the event you spy the Royal Commonplace fluttering above the palace roof, it’s an indication that the monarch is in residence, but when the Union Jack is flying, it’s proof he’s not current.
You can even spot the Victoria Memorial, earlier than heading off down the tree-lined stretch of The Mall or into St James’s Park in direction of Westminster or Inexperienced Park in direction of Piccadilly.
Hearken to Massive Ben
One of many icons of London, the Elizabeth Tower – which homes Massive Ben – was beneath scaffolding for years throughout an extended restoration mission however has fortunately now been unveiled as soon as extra.
The 96m tall clocktower dates again to 1859 and with London visitors (and many guests climbing the steps inside as a part of the Massive Ben excursions), the renovations have been the primary for round 40 years.
Now work has been accomplished and the clock face is seen once more. The 13.7 tonne Nice Bell, as Massive Ben is formally recognized, was additionally silenced through the facelift, aside from particular events however has resumed the well-known ‘booooong’ all through the day.
See the Altering of the Guard
One other custom that dates again centuries – this one to the late fifteenth century – the Altering of the Guard is one in all London’s hottest free points of interest as they march of their well-known bearskin hats as a full army band performs.
The Family Troops have guarded Buckingham Palace since Queen Victoria moved in in 1837, though they’ve protected the monarch and royal palaces for hundreds of years earlier than then. And from 10.43am, the Previous Guard arms over to the New Guard in a ceremony which takes round an hour.
You can even see the guards beginning to type up by St James’s palace from 10.30am as they put together to march to Buckingham Palace, and the brand new guard arriving from Wellington Barracks. The Altering of the Guard usually takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays (every day in June/July) however could also be cancelled for main occasions in addition to notably dangerous climate – test it’s going forward earlier than you queue.
Count on to get there early if you need a great spot – being too near the palace isn’t all the time superb, as you don’t essentially have the perfect view by the gates. In the event you’re visiting London with youthful youngsters, get a style at Wellington Barracks on Birdcage Stroll beforehand, the place you possibly can spot them forming up and listen to the music at round 10.15.
For a much less busy choice, you may also see the Queen’s Life Guard change on Horse Guards Parade, which tends to be much less busy – 11am every day, besides on Sundays when it takes place at 10am.
For extra royal locations in London to go to with youngsters, try my decide of the perfect, from palaces to castles and extra
Hop on a London bus
One other icon of London, a purple double-decker bus is a superb expertise in addition to doubling as a mini free tour of London – see if you happen to can seize the entrance seats on the prime for the perfect view.
Strictly talking, this one is simply free for teenagers beneath 11 – dad and mom must pay (though grownup fares are a mere £1.75 for an hour, so it’s nonetheless a little bit of a discount – playing cards solely, no money. Take a look at this publish for extra particulars of utilizing public transport in London with youngsters).
Sadly the final of the basic Routemaster buses has been retired from Route 15 but it surely’s nonetheless a good way to see the sights, passing the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral and Trafalgar Sq..
Or route 26 travels from Victoria through Westminster Abbey to Horseguards parade, Trafalgar Sq. and on to St Paul’s (changing the previous route 11), whereas route 9 takes you from Trafalgar Sq. west previous Piccadilly to the South Kensington museums and Kensington Palace.
Go to the Sky Backyard
London’s highest public backyard is free to go to, though you do have to guide prematurely to absorb the views – unsurprisingly tickets to the Sky Backyard get snapped up at weekends and also you’ll want ID, so plan forward.
Not removed from Monument station (check out the well-known Monument itself on the way in which, one other free factor to do in London with youngsters if you happen to don’t climb it), the backyard sits on the prime of the skyscraper Londoners know because the Walkie Talkie constructing – if you happen to’re fighting instructions, it’s not tough to identify.
With a coated terrace, you may get some superb views throughout to the Shard, St Paul’s, Tower Bridge and alongside the Thames throughout your hour slot. You’ll be able to keep longer if you happen to plan go to one of many locations to eat and drink, though these are (clearly) not free.
Horizon 22 (22 Bishopsgate)
Horizon 22 is London’s highest free viewing platform, with an opportunity to look out over the town from 254 metres up.
Opened in September 2023 at 22 Bishopsgate, it’s solely a brief stroll from the Sky Backyard and the Backyard at 120, so that you’ll get comparable views – this one is increased, however the trade-off is that you simply don’t get the identical backyard atmosphere.
Tickets can be found 14 days prematurely, launched each Monday at 10am. They do get snapped up in a short time. In the event you’re within the space, flip up between 10am and 12 to attempt to get tickets for a similar day, with a QR code to scan for entry.
Backyard at 120 (120 Fenchurch St)
Backyard at 120 is one other of the newer viewpoints in London and one thing of a rival to the Sky Backyard, with its personal views of close by skyscrapers together with the Gherkin and the Walkie Talkie itself.
Situated on the highest flooring of 120 Fenchurch Avenue, a couple of minutes from Leadenhall Market, the raise takes you as much as the biggest public rooftop house within the Metropolis of London.
The free-to-enter roof backyard has rows of manicured hedges, stunning wildflowers, water options, and a wisteria-covered pergola: excellent for a sunny day within the metropolis.
For extra nice free views in London with youngsters, try my prime picks
Discover Covent Backyard
There’s all the time one thing to see across the Covent Backyard Piazza, whether or not you favor to browse the market stalls, get pleasure from some avenue theatre or uncover the most recent shows. At Christmas, large baubles grasp from the glass roof, when you may additionally discover something from Lego creations to occasional leisure on the large screens.
The road performers audition for the coveted slots right here, and also you would possibly spot something from magic methods to music – it’s free to look at, though if you happen to benefit from the present, it’s solely honest to drop one thing within the hat on the finish.
Whilst you’re there, take a stroll over to close by Neal’s Yard for its eye-catchingly vibrant buildings.
In the event you’re in search of the perfect locations to remain close to Covent Backyard with youngsters, try my decide of household resorts in London
Artwork in Trafalgar Sq.
Trafalgar Sq. could be most well-known for Nelson’s column – do wander previous to identify the lions at its foot – however since 1998, there’s been a succession of artworks on the beforehand empty fourth plinth within the sq..
There’s been every little thing from an enormous blue cockerel and a bronze skeletal horse to a ship in a bottle, and The Finish, an enormous swirl of whipped cream with a cherry and a fly on prime, whereas a drone transmitted a stay feed of Trafalgar Sq..
Mil Veces un Instante by Teresa Margolles is the most recent occupant, and a stroll across the sq. is ideal to mix with a (free!) go to to the Nationwide Gallery close by.
Scroll down for concepts of extra free London museums with youngsters
Go to Parliament
In the event you’re a UK resident, there are a number of methods you may get into the Homes of Parliament totally free (in any other case there are additionally paid excursions and a digital tour on provide).
You’ll be able to guide as much as six months prematurely by contacting your MP (no matter you consider their politics!), to affix a 75-minute official tour by the Palace of Westminster, so you possibly can uncover extra concerning the historical past and traditions of Parliament and its house.
It’s price understanding that these don’t run each day (and never at weekends)
Alternatively, you may also get a free ticket to see a debate, both within the Home of Commons or the Home of Lords – price doing if you happen to fancy taking in one of many extra standard debates.
You’ll want ID, there’s airport-style safety and it’s a great plan to decorate moderately well too.
In any other case you possibly can likelihood your luck on the day and queue to get in to see the Home in session – recess very often coincides with college holidays although, if you happen to’re visiting with youngsters.
Uncover the Roman Mithraeum
There are many reminders of the Roman metropolis of Londinium if you already know the place to look together with a part of London Wall close to the previous London Museum website.
However simply one of the spectacular is the London Mithraeum. The Roman temple of Mithras was based within the third century by the Walbrook, one in all London’s misplaced rivers, earlier than it lay hidden for hundreds of years till 1954.
It was solely in 2017 when the reconstructed temple was reopened in its unique website, beneath Bloomberg’s European Headquarters at 12 Walbrook, together with interactive shows and knowledge for teenagers. It’s free to enter however prebooked tickets are advisable.
For extra Roman websites in London to go to with youngsters, try my publish – together with loads of free choices
Discover a Roman amphitheatre
Head over to the Metropolis of London and yow will discover one other Roman spotlight at Guildhall Yard – stroll across the open house in entrance of the fifteenth century Guildhall and also you’ll see black stones curving across the yard.
These mark the place the place the Roman amphitheatre as soon as stood. Head into the Guildhall Artwork Gallery and you’ll see the stays of the amphitheatre itself, together with a part of the world partitions.
The Artwork Gallery itself can also be free to go to, and also you’ll usually discover occasions going down in Guildhall Yard or as one of many areas for occasions protecting the Sq. Mile making up the Metropolis of London.
Go to Fulham Palace
For hundreds of years, Fulham Palace was the house of the Bishops of London and you’ll nonetheless see inside the home, now a museum which dates again round 750 years.
As nicely discovering out extra concerning the Bishops who lived right here, and at earlier buildings on the positioning, there’s an opportunity to study concerning the property which as soon as provided the palace, its royal guests, plus there are free trails for teenagers to comply with.
Exterior, the 13-acre gardens embrace a pure play space, and there are common occasions and actions throughout college holidays. Tickets to the home and museum are free and will be prebooked or simply flip up.
The palace sits subsequent to Bishop’s Park, with extra playgrounds, together with water play and an city seashore, plus a rose backyard and sculpture backyard, whereas you may also be a part of the Thames Path right here.
Get outdoor in London
Regardless of being one of many greatest cities on this planet, London additionally scores nicely in the case of inexperienced house, with a sequence of beautiful parks. You’ll additionally discover loads of likelihood to get outdoor in London alongside the Thames and at some specifically designed trails too: all utterly free.
Coram’s Fields
London is a surprisingly inexperienced metropolis with loads of parks to select from however what makes Coram’s Fields distinctive is that this stretch of inexperienced house is simply open to households – except you’re visiting with youngsters, you’re not allowed in.
Stretching throughout seven acres, there’s heaps to find inside as nicely: a number of play areas, together with a couple of conventional playgrounds with swings, slides and climbing frames, in addition to some interactive choices to make music… or on the very least, a lot of noise!
Coram’s Fields can also be house to somewhat wildlife backyard, plus it’s strolling distance from the British Museum so it’s straightforward to mix the 2 for a free time out in London.
Right here’s what I considered a go to to Coram’s Fields with a preschooler
Kensington Gardens
Whereas Kensington Gardens isn’t the largest of the royal parks, it’s among the finest if you happen to’re visiting London with youngsters.
The largest draw is the Diana Memorial Playground within the park’s north-western nook, with an enormous picket pirate ship as its centrepiece, plus a sensory path, play sculptures and lots extra. EDIT: The playground is now closed till summer season 2026 (date tbc) for refurbishment
For tips about extra of the perfect playgrounds in London, try this publish
It’s additionally home to the statue of Peter Pan, subsequent to the Lengthy Water as you stroll in direction of Hyde Park, with squirrels, rabbits, mice and fairies climbing up in direction of Peter himself.
Strolling distance from the (free!) South Kensington museums, together with the Pure Historical past Museum and Science Museum, it’s additionally straightforward to mix with Hyde Park.
Hyde Park
Stretching across the Serpentine, Hyde Park is house to Winter Wonderland within the run-up to Christmas and numerous occasions through the summer season. Nevertheless it’s a beautiful place to flee the town at any time of the 12 months.
For youths, there’s a playground at South Carriage Drive or you possibly can entertain yourselves by getting completely different views of the water as you cross the three bridges over the Diana Memorial fountain. On scorching days, you possibly can dip your ft in on the edge (in addition to hiring deckchairs by the lake).
Hyde Park has its personal quirky historical past too. For nearly 150 years, Speaker’s Nook has been the place to go to make your voice heard – anybody can share their views (so long as it doesn’t break any legal guidelines) and also you’ll often discover crowds gathering to hear on Sunday mornings.
On the different finish of the park, Rotten Row was as soon as the hang-out of highwaymen, in addition to a spot for the cream of society to train their horses in centuries previous. The lengthy sandy bridleway was lined with streetlamps to discourage the thieves though you possibly can nonetheless spy individuals driving horses within the park.
St James’s Park
The oldest of the royal parks, St James’s Park is a beautiful inexperienced haven if you happen to’re exploring round Westminster – particularly the prospect to identify the park’s most well-known residents, the pelicans.
There have been pelicans residing right here because the seventeenth century and so they even have their very own island within the lake. The official feeding instances happen between 2.30 and 3pm, though you possibly can nonetheless spot the birds swimming and preening all day.
The views from the Blue Bridge throughout the water in direction of Buckingham Palace, and out to the London Eye within the different route, are great too. Preserve an eye fixed out for the rose emblems on the bottom marking the Diana Memorial route too.
Regent’s Park
The largest of the royal parks in central London, Regent’s Park is house to London Zoo and an open-air theatre, but additionally loads of points of interest you possibly can get pleasure from totally free.
In addition to getting a peek at a couple of of the zoo’s animals from the trail outdoors, the park is one thing of a haven for wildlife, particularly birds.
There are additionally 4 separate playgrounds for teenagers to get pleasure from, or stroll by the formal gardens. On the proper time of 12 months, Queen Mary’s Gardens has 12,000 roses in bloom.
In the event you’re feeling energetic, you possibly can rent rowing boats and head out onto the lake – though this does have a payment.
For an extended stroll, you possibly can comply with the Regent’s Canal in direction of Camden from right here, or cross into Primrose Hill for among the finest views in London. It’s additionally a brief stroll from Baker Avenue and the assorted vacationer points of interest there.
Holland Park
Look out for peacocks in Holland Park, usually to be discovered strutting magnificently across the Kyoto Backyard.
The backyard itself was a present from the Japanese metropolis, and with its waterfalls and swimming pools reflecting the cherry blossom in Spring and the flaming Japanese maple timber in autumn, it’s an exquisite spot to walk.
Extra thrilling for teenagers is the journey playground, geared toward kids aged 5 to 14, with a zipper wire, climbing frames and wall, and numerous different enjoyable choices, together with a sandpit space for youthful youngsters.
For tips about extra of the perfect playgrounds in London, try this publish
Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park has among the finest views in London, from the hill of the Royal Observatory, gazing right down to the Previous Royal Naval faculty and throughout the Thames to the Docklands and the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf and the monetary district.
However that’s just one purpose to discover Greenwich Park with youngsters. It’s the oldest enclosed royal park and has its personal herd of deer which stay across the Wilderness, within the south-east of the park.
There are gardens galore, some with an extended historical past: wander by the Queen’s orchard, the park’s herb backyard and rose backyard, and stroll the size of London’s longest herbaceous border. There’s additionally a playground right here.
And whereas boat rent isn’t free, you possibly can additionally head out onto the lake between Easter and October, within the shadow of the Queen’s Home.
It’s an awesome choice to mix with the Nationwide Maritime Museum close by (scroll down for extra free London museums with youngsters), additionally free to enter, and you’ll climb as much as the Royal Observatory and see the meridian line too.
For extra causes to go to Greenwich with youngsters, try my publish
Battersea Park
Battersea Park is one other beautiful place to walk, with quite a lot of completely different points of interest if you happen to’re visiting London with youngsters – the bulk have a payment, together with the Go Ape Battersea excessive ropes, Battersea Park Youngsters’s Zoo, pedal and rowboats on the lake, and Putt within the Park mini golf, however there’s nonetheless a lot to do with out paying a penny.
Look out for the London Peace Pagoda as you wander, a present to the town from the founding father of the Japanese Buddhist motion in 1984. The park additionally stretches alongside the sting of the Thames so that you get the river views and an opportunity to stare throughout to the Chelsea Embankment.
Richmond Park
The largest of the royal parks, Richmond Park stretches for an astonishing 2,500 acres and can also be a nature reserve.
Most well-known for its herds of untamed deer, each purple and fallow deer, you’ve received a great likelihood of recognizing them as you wander – the Tamsin Path, alongside the sting of the park is good for households, because it’s virtually car-free, and is an efficient path to comply with to get a couple of glimpses.
It’s necessary to keep in mind that they’re wild animals although, so don’t attempt to feed them and all the time hold a minimum of 50m away, particularly through the rutting season (from September to November) and through Could to July when fawns are born.
Don’t miss the beautiful Isabella Plantation gardens, with beautiful winding paths previous the flowers and water, or on a transparent day, climb King Henry’s Mound and look throughout in direction of St Paul’s Cathedral greater than 10 miles away. It’s a protected view, so nothing is allowed to be constructed within the sightline.
For extra of the perfect views in London with youngsters, try my prime picks
Stroll the South Financial institution
There’s all the time one thing new to find alongside London’s South Financial institution, with occasions and festivals usually going down, new paintings usually showing, avenue artwork, plus a string of historic websites and main points of interest to see.
The Thames is the guts of the town, so a stroll alongside the river is all the time among the finest issues to do in London with youngsters.
Considered one of my favorite stretches runs from Westminster Bridge to Southwark Bridge, with views to landmarks just like the Homes of Parliament and St Paul’s, in addition to strolling previous the London Eye, the Tate Fashionable and Shakespeare’s Globe theatre.
For extra issues to do on the South Financial institution with youngsters, try my suggestions
Preserve going somewhat additional to Bankside and you’ll see the Golden Hinde, a recreation of the ship wherein Sir Francis Drake circumnavigated the globe, then on in direction of the Tower of London and Tower Bridge.
Don’t miss the little particulars too, from the ornamental lampposts to the fountains which create the Showing Rooms (take spare garments!) and a complete string of inventive touches. These change always, however try this stroll alongside the South Financial institution for a few of the highlights to look out for.
The Think about Youngsters’s Competition additionally takes place on the South Financial institution, often in February, operating for 12 days and geared toward youngsters aged as much as 11, with a string of free occasions.
For an additional enjoyable, low-cost strolling tour of London (though not utterly free), get 10% off the treasure hunts from Treasure Map trails utilizing code MUMMYTRAVELS
Discover Little Venice
In the event you’re in search of waterfront walks, there’s extra than simply the Thames to discover, with loads of choices alongside the town’s canals.
The Regent’s Canal passes from Camden, previous Regent’s Park and London Zoo, however among the finest areas to wander round is picturesque Little Venice with its houseboats moored alongside the banks or cruising down the nonetheless water… to not point out a floating artwork gallery and puppet theatre,
Thought to have been given its identify by poet Robert Browning, it’s a splendidly peaceable spot. The closest tube is Warwick Avenue however you may also stroll alongside to Paddington Basin, with its Floating Pocket Park (mini inexperienced areas which bob on the water).
Head there at noon on Wednesdays and Fridays, and you’ll see the Fan Bridge being lifted as nicely.
Take a look at a playground
In the event you go to virtually any one in all London’s parks, you’ll discover a playground to entertain your youngsters – from the best-known just like the Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens to Holland Park’s journey playground.
EDIT: The Diana Memorial Playground shall be closed till summer season 2026 (date tbc) for refurbishment
However there are a string of others in case your youngsters want a short break from sightseeing. A stone’s throw from the London Eye, Jubilee Park & Backyard has its personal playground, or Victoria Park in east London has each a playground and a splash park, whereas if you happen to’re out by the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Tumbling Bay playground has sand, wobbly bridges, swimming pools and extra to play in.
For someplace actually particular, head to Paddington Recreation Floor playground, aka Paddington Rec close to Maida Vale tube – designed for all ages and talents, it’s supposed to encourage artistic play… and also you’ll discover a steamliner, prepare, tunnel, musical devices, a wooden forest play space among the many timber, plus the spotlight of pastel colored playhouses which appear to be terraced homes.
For my full set of the perfect playgrounds in London, try this publish
Splash in a fountain
When London basks in one in all its occasional heatwaves, there’s nowhere higher to be than the fountains which have began popping up throughout the town – come ready with spare garments!
In addition to the Showing Rooms on the South Financial institution (scroll up for extra particulars), a few of the greatest are at Granary Sq. close to Kings Cross. Made up of 1,080 separate jets, they dance in patterns, as youngsters splash excitedly amongst them.
You can even discover extra fountains within the courtyard of Somerset Home off the Strand, in addition to The Riverside at Extra London close to Tower Bridge, 200 jets organized in strains which spring as much as catch the unwary.
Spot the Crystal Palace dinosaurs
A brief prepare trip from central London lies one in all London’s most uncommon points of interest – and one which, aside from the fare to get there, you possibly can get pleasure from solely totally free.
Created again in 1854, the 30 life-size fashions are all of extinct animals, together with dinosaurs, based mostly on the perfect scientific information of the time – not all of which is sort of appropriate.
Now Grade I listed, they’ve been restored greater than as soon as and in the event that they don’t look fairly as you would possibly anticipate a dinosaur to, they’re nonetheless nicely price seeing. You’ll find them within the south east facet of Crystal Palace Park, which can also be house to one of many nation’s greatest mazes, one other Victorian design.
For extra uncommon issues to do in London with youngsters, try my decide of the perfect
Discover Hampstead Heath
This large stretch of open heathland stretches from Hampstead to Highgate, and is house to the best level in London – Parliament Hill. The view right here is protected, and you’ll gaze down onto St Paul’s and the Palace of Westminster, in addition to a few of the metropolis’s tallest buildings.
The woodland and meadows have impressed writers and artists, so it’s a beautiful place to amble: you’ll additionally discover playgrounds on the southern edge. There are three bathing ponds within the east too, though there’s a cost to make use of these (and you must prebook).
In the event you’re already an English Heritage member, you possibly can go to Kenwood Home totally free, with its artwork assortment contained in the grand Georgian constructing, household actions and extra grounds to discover.
See Walthamstow Wetlands
Round quarter-hour from central London, the Walthamstow Wetlands are the most recent and largest wetlands within the metropolis – and in contrast to the earlier title holder, the WWT London Wetlands Centre at Barnes, they’re free to go to.
There are common family-friendly actions, or you possibly can merely comply with the 13 miles of paths by the character reserve, retaining an eye fixed out for wildlife and having fun with the peace as you wander the paths across the reservoirs… whereas pondering the thought that these provide consuming water for 3.5 million individuals each day.
Tottenham Hale tube is among the best to get to, on the Victoria line from Oxford Circus and King’s Cross, then lower than 10 minutes’ stroll to achieve the wetlands themselves.
For an additional free various that’s extra central, Camley Avenue Pure Park sits between King’s Cross and St Pancras, with wetland, woodland and grassland habitats within the 1 hectare reserve
Free museums in London
A few of London’s best-known museums are famously free to enter, and there’s a lot to find inside that it’s straightforward to spend a day trying round – or simply pop in for an hour with out worrying about pricy entrance charges.
Prebooking tickets to London’s free museums is advisable, particularly throughout college holidays (though some walk-up tickets are sometimes out there), however there’s nonetheless no cost except you’re additionally visiting one of many particular exhibitions.
For extra concepts on issues to do in London with toddlers and preschoolers, try this publish
Pure Historical past Museum
Probably the greatest free museums in London with a toddler – though older youngsters will adore it right here too – the well-known dinosaurs and blue whale skeleton hanging within the entrance corridor are simply the beginning of what you possibly can see on the Pure Historical past Museum.
Older youngsters will love the earth sciences part, together with a simulated earthquake, after being whisked upstairs by an escalator rising in direction of dramatic rumbles and purple mild.
Youthful ones will benefit from the mammals part, and the prospect to see Andy’s clock in the event that they’re followers of CBeebies reveals Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures and Andy’s Prehistoric Adventures. You’ll be able to actually have a little break within the Wildlife Backyard as nicely.
It’s unsurprisingly standard, so the free tickets for weekends and faculty holidays do get snapped up quick – don’t depart it too late to guide.
For my tips about visiting the Pure Historical past Museum with youngsters, click on right here
Science Museum
A brief stroll from the Pure Historical past Museum, you possibly can even squeeze each these nice free London museums into at some point – though you received’t be in need of issues to see at both.
And aside from the interactive reveals of Wonderlab, which does have a reserving payment, there’s no cost to go to the Science Museum.
Toddlers and youthful youngsters will love The Backyard, with a lot of probabilities to get hands-on, taking part in with water, making music, sensory shows and large blocks. The Sample Pod is one other nice one for preschoolers and first college age too.
And that’s earlier than you try the house gallery, in addition to galleries on communications and knowledge, plus an outline of 250 years of scientific and technological advances which have reworked our on a regular basis life.
Prebooking tickets is advisable and also you’re suggested to permit a minimum of two hours for a go to.
For my tips about visiting the Science Museum with youngsters, click on right here.
The British Museum
With round 80,000 objects on show on the British Museum (from its greater assortment of eight million or so), it’s additionally an awesome place to go to with youngsters.
The mummies and the Historic Egypt galleries are among the many hottest (and often the busiest) however are by no means lower than fascinating. However with trails designed for age three upwards (together with two for preschoolers targeted on colors and counting), it’s straightforward to carry the artefacts to life.
You’ll be able to uncover Anglo Saxon treasure, video games which date again 1000’s of years, gods, jewels, on a regular basis objects and distinctive finds, to not point out Romans, Greeks, Vikings and an enormous quantity extra.
Solely the particular exhibitions have a cost, and if you happen to’re visiting with youngsters aged beneath 5, it’s best to be capable to skip the queue on the entrance – prebooking tickets is advisable and trails will be downloaded prematurely.
For my tips about visiting the British Museum with youngsters, click on right here.
The London Museum
There’s nowhere higher to find extra concerning the metropolis you’re visiting than this free museum – the London Museum traces the capital’s historical past from the times when hippos roamed in what’s now Trafalgar Sq..
EDIT: The museum is now briefly closed till reopening in its new website at Smithfield in 2026, though the London Museum Docklands stays open (see beneath for extra particulars)
It’s an awesome one for college age kids, together with nice galleries on Roman London, the Anglo Saxons, the plague and Nice Hearth of London, in addition to extra trendy instances. You can even decide up trails for teenagers to comply with as they discover.
It additionally tends to be barely quieter than the South Kensington museums at weekends, superb if you happen to’re making an attempt to flee the crowds with youngsters in London.
Horniman Museum
This beautiful museum is outdoors central London however is straightforward to achieve from London Bridge, and notably enjoyable with youthful youngsters.
With a lot of galleries on completely different themes, the Horniman is nice for little consideration spans as you possibly can wander from pure historical past to world music and tradition, to see butterflies and wander the grounds outdoors (with extra animals to identify there too). EDIT: The Pure Historical past Gallery is closed till 2027
The Nature Base offers youngsters an opportunity to get arms on, together with stroking a stuffed fox and badger, whereas older ones can study extra about conservation too.
The non permanent exhibitions do have a small cost, as does the small aquarium, however in any other case it’s free to enter. Save a while to go to the Horniman Triangle playground close by, with sandpits and climbing webs among the many play tools.
Learn extra about my go to to the Horniman museum with youngsters right here.
Victoria & Albert Museum
Whereas households flock to the opposite South Kensington museums, the Victoria & Albert Museum (or V&A) is one which regularly will get ignored with youngsters.
However the world’s largest museum of ornamental and utilized arts has some implausible household actions to strive, even for the youngest guests, that are nice for bringing the gathering to life – its sister museum, the Younger V&A in Bethnal Inexperienced, is one other nice free choice if you happen to’re venturing out of the centre.
With the costumes from the Lion King, eye-catchingly dramatic court docket clothes, and a really sudden automaton of a tiger consuming a person, in addition to statues, sculptures and extra, it’s a wonderful treasure trove to discover with youngsters.
There are additionally free household occasions throughout college holidays and a few weekends, in addition to trails to comply with (obtain earlier than you come or decide up while you arrive – the household backpacks are at present unavailable although).
For my tips about visiting the V&A with youngsters, click on right here
The Younger V&A
The sister museum to the V&A in South Kensington, the previous London Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Inexperienced reopened in summer season 2023 with a brand new look and a brand new identify – the Younger V&A.
With its shows of toys and video games, it has been a household favorite for years (not least for the nostalgia worth), and the much-loved highlights are additionally again – look out for one of many unique Paddington Bear toys.
Nonetheless whereas the constructing is similar grand corridor (often known as the City Sq.), youngsters have been concerned in arising with the redesigned look, now themed round three galleries: Play, Think about and Design.
Better of all there are many probabilities to get arms on, whether or not that’s creating your individual board recreation, listening to storytelling, or hitting the sandpit, in addition to new objects happening show, with a complete of two,000 objects to get pleasure from.
Nationwide Maritime Museum
One of many Royal Museums Greenwich, this free museum traces Britain’s maritime historical past over the centuries, with reveals together with the coat Nelson was carrying when he died.
You can even see mannequin ships and maps, in addition to artworks, with tales of piracy and journey, Polar exploration and voyage by the Pacific – the Ahoy gallery is the perfect spot for households with youthful youngsters, or try the interactive Sea Issues gallery.
Higher for older youngsters than toddlers, though there are household trails and an awesome large map within the coronary heart of the Nationwide Maritime Museum to play on. Prebooking tickets is advisable.
For extra concepts of issues to do in Greenwich with youngsters, click on right here.
Tate Fashionable
Set in a transformed energy station on London’s Bankside, Tate Fashionable is certainly not your common artwork gallery – youngsters are inspired to speak (and there’s loads of house to run round within the turbine corridor) plus you’ll discover a lot of straightforward methods even for youthful ones to get pleasure from what they see together with urged video games.
The Tate Fashionable additionally has urged routes for households to comply with by the collections, which embrace large names from the twentieth century, akin to Matisse, together with works from the previous decade on show.
It’s a simple one so as to add in to a stroll alongside the South Financial institution as nicely (scroll up for extra particulars).
Nationwide Gallery
With nicely over 2,000 works, you possibly can see a few of the best artwork on this planet on the Nationwide Gallery – and also you don’t have to have an in-depth grasp of artwork historical past to get pleasure from trying on the collections.
See how most of the 30 highlights you possibly can discover by yourself artwork treasure hunt. And for artistic youngsters, don’t go with out packing a pad and a few colouring pencils – you’ll spot loads of different households stopping to create their very own artwork alongside the way in which.
There are additionally household actions, particularly throughout college holidays, plus loads of concepts of artwork actions for teenagers at house in the event that they’re impressed by a go to.
London Museum Docklands
The sister website of the London Museum, the London Museum Docklands sits in a transformed warehouse on West India Quay, as soon as the guts of London’s thriving docks business, and it’s the right place to find this side of the capital.
With galleries set out in chronological order, you possibly can journey from late Tudor instances when the river visitors moved east from the wharves across the Tower of London proper by to the trendy day, when London’s monetary district took over the realm.
There are shows on slavery, you possibly can stroll by a recreation of Sailortown and look inside an air raid shelter, in addition to studying extra concerning the Nice Stink and the Nice Dock Strike.
Entry is free, together with to a few of the non permanent exhibitions though there’s a small cost for the Mudlarks play house (which have to be prebooked). In any other case that is one museum which is healthier with major school-aged kids and older than with preschoolers and toddlers.
Learn extra about my go to to the London Museum Docklands with youngsters right here.
Imperial Struggle Museum
Based through the First World Struggle, the galleries on the Imperial Struggle Museum give attention to the experiences of individuals affected by warfare, so when you’ll additionally get to see some very massive weapons, planes hanging from the ceiling and collections of medals, there’s extra emphasis on particular person tales.
The latest galleries embrace one protecting the Second World Struggle, and the museum runs common household occasions throughout college holidays – one of many latest ones was based mostly round spies and espionage.
There’s a separate exhibition on the Holocaust as nicely, which is simply advisable for youngsters aged 14+.
The closest tube station is Lambeth North, though you possibly can stroll it from Waterloo in lower than quarter-hour.
RAF London
The Royal Air Power Museum in Colindale, north London tells the story of the RAF over its first 100 years, from the founding in 1918.
Contained in the hangars, you possibly can see a complete string of plane from through the years, in addition to shows of every little thing from logbooks and hidden maps to survival rations, plus different autos.
Children can strive on an RAF uniform or take a look at their very own response instances, together with sensory areas to the touch the fashions and uncover some RAF smells and sounds, plus the prospect for the littlest ones to climb right into a miniature airplane.
Tickets are free however prebooking is suggested. You can even prebook automotive parking prematurely if you happen to don’t need to journey by tube, however this does have a cost.
Extra free issues to do in London with youngsters
Whether or not you fancy seeing your favorite guide character, discovering the town’s artwork or recognizing animals, there are a lot extra concepts of free issues to do with youngsters in London.
See the Paddington statues
For followers of Paddington Bear (and who isn’t?), you possibly can’t miss a go to to Paddington Station, the place the furry hero of the books was first discovered by the Browns and obtained his identify – among the finest locations to search out Paddington in London.
The lifesize bronze statue with the label asking individuals to take care of this bear is again in its common house by Platform 1, after a short stint close to the Praed Avenue entrance, between Platforms 9 and 10. Preserve an eye fixed out for a plaque marking his appearances on the web page and on display too.
You can even discover the Paddington bench throughout the station, the place youngsters can sit subsequent to him and pose for images.
The station can also be the start line for the Pawprint Path – three trails, in actual fact, every with one of many Paddington statues from the 2014 assortment dotted across the metropolis.
One route takes you alongside the canal to Little Venice and past, one other to Paddington Basin, so they’re good choices to mix with both of those (scroll up for extra particulars) in addition to a go to to Paddington Rec. The third leads within the route of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.
For a much less well-known statue of Paddington, head to St Mary’s Churchyard at close by Paddington Inexperienced, the place you’ll discover him commemorated along with his creator Michael Bond, one of many Sustrans portrait benches dotted across the nation – right here alongside two different locals, nurse Mary Seacole and mathematician and codebreaker Alan Turing.
You don’t have to depart central London to search out him both: there’s additionally a statue of Paddington along with his well-known marmalade sandwiches in Leicester Sq..
For extra issues to do round Leicester Sq. with youngsters, try my prime picks
Stroll in Harry Potter’s footsteps
Harry Potter followers can discover a string of web sites from the books and flicks throughout the capital, together with an opportunity to see the designs which introduced the wizarding world to life, in addition to areas which pop up within the movies.
Begin at King’s Cross: Platform 9 ¾ was really filmed between platforms 4 and 5, however there’s an opportunity to pose with a baggage trolley disappearing by the wall on the station concourse.
There’s knowledgeable photographer taking photographs, full with the headband of whichever home you select (often from 9am to 9pm) and an opportunity to purchase these within the store subsequent door, however there’s no obligation and you may also take your individual images totally free.
There’s often a queue, so it’s greatest to show up early or be prepared to attend (except you flip up after the store has shut with your individual digicam and props).
You can even stroll by Leadenhall Market, which doubled as Diagon Alley within the first film, and spot the blue door to the optician’s in Bull’s Head Passage which turned the doorway to the Leaky Cauldron. Or be careful for Loss of life Eaters as you stroll throughout the Millennium Bridge between Tate Fashionable and St Paul’s.
Followers may also go to the Home of MinaLima – graphic design duo Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima created every little thing from the Marauder’s Map to packets of Bertie Bott’s Each Flavour Beans. It’s free to go searching their gallery at Wardour Avenue (previously on Greek Avenue) if you happen to can resist shopping for a memento.
For extra Harry Potter areas in London, try this publish
Spot avenue artwork
London’s avenue artwork scene is continually altering, so it’s attainable to return time and again to see one thing new – however in addition to making particular visits to see the most recent creations, it’s straightforward to see a few of the works throughout the capital as you wander previous different points of interest.
Stroll alongside the South Financial institution and you’ll see avenue artwork by Stik at Hungerford Bridge, not removed from the London Eye, in addition to a technicolour Shakespeare close to the Clink tunnel past the Globe, and extra within the Leake Avenue tunnel close to Waterloo – only for starters.
In any other case, components of East London – particularly Shoreditch and Hackney – are good areas to strive. Wander alongside Brick Lane and the roads close by, or if you happen to’re near Liverpool Avenue and Spitalfields, there’s avenue artwork to be discovered right here too.
Camden can also be price a go to, whereas Walthamstow is making a reputation for its avenue artwork too – comply with the Wooden Avenue Partitions maps.
For extra issues to do in Camden with youngsters, try my prime picks
And the London Mural Competition noticed greater than 150 artworks throughout the capital in September 2024 – a lot of which nonetheless stay.
Wander round God’s Personal Junkyard
In the event you’re visiting Walthamstow on the weekend (or on Fridays), don’t go house with out a cease at God’s Personal Junkyard, with its piles of neon indicators.
Some are former movie props, however you’ll discover all types of brightly great creations on show – and heaped up towards the partitions – together with retro indicators, spiritual statues, disco paraphernalia, all free to wander round.
Higher with teenagers and older youngsters (or chances are you’ll need to distract youthful youngsters from a couple of of the psychedelic delights on show).
Stroll The Line
The Line is London’s first public artwork stroll, a good way to combine the prospect to get outdoor with having fun with artwork, heritage and nature.
The whole factor is meant to take round 2 ½ hours to stroll, operating between the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and The O2, alongside a few of east London’s waterways and following the road of the Greenwich Meridian.
There are half a dozen artworks on the North Greenwich peninsula alone, straightforward to mix with a go to to The O2, or you possibly can hop on the tube if you happen to’d prefer to see all of them in case your youngsters don’t fancy doing your complete route on foot – particularly as you possibly can often rely on getting misplaced a minimum of as soon as alongside the way in which.
Go to a metropolis farm
In the event you’re visiting London with youngsters who love animals, add one of many many metropolis farms to your checklist, with a string of web sites dotted across the capital.
Freightliners Metropolis Farm (between Caledonian Street tube and Highbury & Islington) has some uncommon breeds, as does Spitalfields Metropolis Farm.
At Vauxhall Metropolis Farm, you’ll discover alpacas alongside farmyard animals and even a few cats, whereas there are llamas at Mudchute. Hackney Metropolis Farm has some smaller fluffy inhabitants together with rabbits and guinea pigs in addition to bigger creatures too.
A number of the farms have restricted opening hours, so all the time test straight for the most recent data.
Go to Golders Hill Zoo
In the event you’re in search of one thing extra unique than home animals, how a couple of free zoo in London?
Golders Hill Zoo is way smaller than London Zoo (and even Battersea Park Youngsters’s Zoo) however nonetheless has some distinctly uncommon animals residing in its house in Golders Hill Park (technically a part of Hampstead Heath, in London’s Golders Inexperienced) – all registered with BIAZA, the British and Irish Affiliation of Zoos and Aquariums.
Don’t anticipate lions or tigers however you possibly can spot ring-tailed lemurs and coatis, in addition to kookaburras and eagle owls, plus a herd of deer. It’s beautiful if you happen to’re in search of a free time out in north London with youthful youngsters.
Right here’s what we considered a go to to Golders Hill Zoo with a toddler
Discover a market
London is known for its markets, and whereas they’re solely free if you happen to’re strong-willed sufficient to not purchase a memento or two, they’re an awesome expertise when you’re visiting the capital.
Portobello market is the world’s largest vintage market, though you’ll discover style, classic and extra on the stalls – Saturday is the primary day to go to right here, and hipster favorite Broadway market in Hackney.
Spitalfields Market is one in all London’s oldest, and is now open each day, as is Camden market, with some nice meals and a multicultural mixture of homewares, style and jewelry. Greenwich market is one other every day choice, with antiques, style and meals.
For meals, it’s arduous to beat Borough Market, though solely the extraordinarily strong-willed can resist shopping for one thing off the stalls promoting each produce and really tempting dishes right here.
In the event you’re visiting in November or December, try the town’s greatest Christmas markets with youngsters too
Spy well-known names in a cemetery
The thought of going for a stroll in a cemetery might sound an odd one, but it surely’s really an interesting time out with youngsters in London – and for sure, often free – particularly if you happen to go to one of many Magnificent Seven, the ring of seven graveyards created principally within the Victorian age and impressed by Pere Lachaise in Paris.
Brompton Cemetery has an uncommon attraction for youthful kids – Beatrix Potter used to stay close by and a few names on the tombstones apparently impressed characters in her tales: hold an eye fixed out for Peter Rabbett, Jeremiah Fisher, Mr Nutkins, Mr Brock and Mr McGregor as you go to.
You’ll additionally discover Suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst, Victorian adventuress Elizabeth Le Blond and pioneering doctor Dr John Snow, plus this cemetery has made numerous appearances in movies, together with Bond film Goldeneye and Sherlock Holmes.
Kensal Inexperienced is London’s largest and oldest public cemetery, with large mausoleums in addition to the grave of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, plus tightrope walker Charles Blondin, greatest recognized for crossing the Niagara Gorge on a tightrope.
Bunhill Fields is a Nonconformist burial floor which dates again to the 1660s, with the graves of writers, artists, intellectuals and radicals, together with John Bunyan, Daniel Defoe and William Blake.
The perfect-known of the cemeteries, Highgate, isn’t free (except you’re a grave proprietor), now £8 for an grownup ticket for the Highlights tour or to the East Cemetery, £4 for teenagers aged 8+. It’s the ultimate resting place of Karl Marx, George Eliot and poet Christina Rossetti, and a few of its catacombs are Grade II listed. Archway tube is the closest, relatively than Highgate itself.
To purchase a PDF model of this publish to maintain, click on right here to go to my on-line retailer – priced £1.99. And for extra concepts on how to economize on days out in London with youngsters, try my prime suggestions
*First revealed 2020, final up to date 2026*
PIN FOR LATER: FREE THINGS TO DO IN LONDON WITH KIDS
Tower of London/Trafalgar Sq./Coram’s Fields/St James’s Park/Greenwich Park/Pure Historical past Museum/Horniman museum/V&A/Nationwide Gallery/Museum of London Docklands/Paddington bench/Shakespeare avenue artwork/Borough market pictures copyright MummyTravels, altering of the guard courtesy Adobe Inventory, all different pictures courtesy of Depositphotos
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