There’s more than enough activities and tourist spots in London to delight kids of all ages for weeks on end. But once you check off all the major sights like Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and The Tower of London you may be on the hunt for more ideas to interest the youngest visitors.
From the magical world of Harry Potter, to posh afternoon teas specially created for kids, these are the top London days out that will win you parenting points from your family.
Harry Potter Studio Tour
Wizards, witches and muggles can all enjoy a fun day out at the Warner Bros. Harry Potter studio tour. Book a tour with Evan Evans and all the logistics of the day will be taken care of including return coach transportation from central London.
You’ll see Diagon Alley, the Forbidden Forest and even get to board the Hogwarts Express at platform 9 and 3/4!
You’ll enjoy around four hours at the studios which is more than enough time to see everything and grab a butterbeer and a souvenir before heading back to the muggle world.
Afternoon Tea at The Langham
Afternoon tea is as British as, well, a nice cup of tea! You might worry that kids would be bored at a stuffy tea with fancy sandwiches and expensive crockery, but kid-themed tea times are becoming incredibly popular.
They’re a hit with children because they get to dress up, go somewhere “posh” and eat yummy sweets and cakes- what’s not to love?
At the Palm Court of The Langham, London they know how to make even the youngest guests feel special. The Langham, was the first hotel to serve afternoon tea, and they have perfected the ritual. My son was so excited to be called “sir” and tended to so well.
The Children’s Afternoon Tea menu includes sandwiches cut into a jigsaw puzzle shape which gives little hands something to do as they nibble. The next course is a summer holiday on a plate with a pair of sunglasses to take home plus cakes and treats an even an ice lolly!
The Langham have partnered with Daunt Books offering a library of children’s classics and new titles to read while they eat. At the end of their special meal they are able to choose a book to take home as a memento of their day out.
The London Dungeon
For older children and those with gruesome interests, check out The London Dungeon. Here you’ll find out all about London’s horrible history through executions, gunpowder plots and torture!
Costumed actors bring the frights along with props and sets that make historical events like the great plague come alive.
V and A Museum of Childhood
The Victoria and Albert Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Green is a collection of toys and children’s pastimes through the ages. Adults may feel insulted to see examples of their favorites games and toys labeled as “vintage” items!
There are also costumes to try on and a lovely cafe for snacks or lunch.
Grow Wild, Lloyd Park Children’s Playground
Head to Walthamstow, in East London and wear the kids out at the Grow Wild natural adventure playground. Kids can paint, make, create and explore while learning how to navigate and manage risk all in a fun outdoor space.
In the park grounds you’ll also find the William Morris gallery for some grown up fun.
It’s easy to have fun in a city as exciting and diverse as London, bring the kids along too and enjoy these amazing days out as a family-friendly adventure.
