London
London, United Kingdom
Family Score
85/100
Walkability
8/10
Safety
8/10
Healthcare
9/10
Transport
9/10
Top kid-friendly places in London
About
London is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wide range of kid-friendly attractions, activities, and experiences that cater to all ages. From iconic landmarks to interactive museums and parks, London provides a rich and engaging environment for family vacations.
Budget range
Moderate to high, attractions, transportation, accommodation
Pace
Fast-paced
Vibe
Historic, cultural, entertaining
English Prevalence
Widespread
Water Safety
Potable
Air Quality
Good
Things families love
- Iconic landmarks like the London Eye and Tower Bridge
- Interactive museums such as the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum
- Parks and playgrounds like the Diana Memorial Playground
- Family-friendly shows and musicals in the West End
- River cruises on the Thames
Watch out for
- Long queues at popular attractions
- Expensive ticket prices for some attractions
- Crowded public transportation
- Need for advance booking for popular shows and attractions
Health and safety
Families should stick to well-lit and busy streets, avoid walking alone at night, and keep valuables secure. It's also advisable to plan journeys in advance and stay informed about local conditions. When using public transport, follow safety guidelines such as wearing seatbelts and avoiding overcrowded vehicles.[1][4]
Public Hospitals
Excellent
Pharmacies
Widespread
English-Speaking Doctors
Widespread
Family life
Londoners generally welcome children in public spaces and are accommodating to families. However, it's appreciated when parents keep their children under control and respectful of others, especially in crowded areas and public transport.
Changing Facilities
Common
Kid-friendly public spaces
Abundant
Breastfeeding
Normalized
Parent Tips
general Advice
- Consider purchasing a family-friendly public transport card or a hop-on hop-off bus ticket to make navigating the city easier and more cost-effective.
- Book family-friendly accommodations that offer interconnecting rooms or suites to ensure everyone has enough space.
- Plan your itinerary around kid-friendly attractions and activities, but also include some downtime to avoid overexertion.
- Take advantage of free museums and parks to provide a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
local Hacks
- Take advantage of London's many parks and green spaces for picnics or impromptu playtime.
- Use the city's many family-friendly cafes and bakeries for quick and affordable meals.
- Consider visiting popular attractions early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds.
money Saving
- Look for family-friendly restaurants that offer kids' menus or early bird specials to save on dining costs.
- Consider visiting during the off-season or using travel rewards to reduce accommodation costs.
- Use public transport or walk whenever possible to save on taxi fares.
packing Tips
- Pack layers for all seasons, as London's weather can be unpredictable.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and rain gear to ensure you're prepared for any weather conditions.
- Consider packing a portable charger for your phone or other devices to keep them charged throughout the day.
When to visit
Best months
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
The summer months offer warm weather and long daylight hours, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The spring and early autumn months provide mild temperatures and fewer tourists, making them good alternatives for family visits.
Months to avoid
January
February
November
December
The winter months can be cold and rainy, which may limit outdoor activities. Additionally, these months are peak tourist seasons due to Christmas and New Year's celebrations, leading to crowded attractions and higher prices.
Rainfall
Rainfall is common in spring and autumn, so families should pack accordingly. November and August see the highest rainfall, making them less ideal for outdoor activities.
Emergency Numbers
Police
101
Ambulance
999
Fire
999
Emergency
999
Daily Rhythm
Dining Times
Lunch: 12:00-14:00
Dinner: 18:00-20:00
Evening Culture
moderate
Siesta Culture
No
Getting Around
For daily life, the Tube and buses are the most convenient options. Consider purchasing a Visitor Oyster Card for discounted fares. The Tube is efficient but may require navigating stairs and escalators with strollers. Buses are more stroller-friendly and offer a scenic view of the city.
Tips for Getting Around
- Plan your routes in advance using the TfL journey planner or mobile apps to minimize walking distances.
- Travel during off-peak hours to avoid crowded trains and buses.
- Pack light and bring entertainment for children during longer journeys.
Car Needed?
No
Bus
London bus, double-decker bus
Metro
Tube, london underground
Tram
Tramlink
Overground Train
London overground, national rail
Walking
Taxi
Black cab, minicab
Rideshare
Uber