Things to do in London for the Whole Family

View from Park Plaza County Hall London

Things to do in London for the Whole Family

With all eyes on the capital of the UK this year, a handy guide to the best family friendly activities in London could be just what you need. With tons of green space and plenty of fun things for children, you can be sure that a trip to London this summer will be an experience you’ll never forget.  If you’re looking for cheap hotels in London check out HostelBookers.com who have a great range.

First things first – let’s talk practicalities. It can be difficult to find your way around the city streets the underground is too crowded to bundle in pushchairs, bags and the little ones. Why not opt for a boat trip on the Thames instead on the Thames Clipper? Use an oyster card to cut down the price and travel London in style. Note though that the Thames Clipper can be quite crowded during rush hour so be careful what time you board!

St James Park - photo credit: Morgaine on Flickr

First thing in the morning why not head down to Covent Garden for a nice breakfast in the piazza before it gets too crowded.  If you go down the stairs you’ll find a nice little Asian inspired café which serves all kinds of interesting lovely drinks and food.  You can sit and watch the early morning buskers right outside – some charming entertainment for the kids.

Next up head over to Buckingham Palace, get there for 11:30 a.m and you’ll see the changing of the guard.  St James’s Park sits straight behind you, home to some beautiful swans.  Take a stroll around and let the kids run off some steam in one of the most beautiful settings in central London.

For the afternoon there are two options, you can visit one of London’s most recognizable features; its eye. No, not a real one, but the London Eye Ferris Wheel in Southbank. Pay for a trip up into the city heights to get an expansive view over all of the City of London and beyond. The kids will go absolutely nuts for it—that is, if they’re not afraid of heights.  Play a game and see who can spot the most famous landmarks.

If heights aren’t your things then why not check out some of London’s free museums. The Natural History Museum is a must see with its expansive collection of dinosaur bones.  Or head over to the interactive section at the Science Museum just next door. For really little ones there is a great water play area in the basement.

These are just a few of the fab things to do in London this summer.  For up-to-date information check out London Timeout.