London is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty of things to do and see, but it can also be an expensive place to visit, especially if you’re travelling with kids. Luckily, there are plenty of free activities and attractions in London that are perfect for families on a budget. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a look at 33 of the best free things to do with kids in London.
From exploring world-class museums to wandering through beautiful parks, there’s something for everyone in London. Whether you’re a local looking for new things to do with your family or a visitor looking to make the most of your vacation, this guide will provide you with plenty of inspiration. So pack a picnic, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to explore the best free attractions that London has to offer for families with kids.
Free Museums and Galleries
London is home to some of the most fascinating museums and galleries in the world, and the best part is that many of them are free to visit! Whether you’re interested in art, history, or science, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top free museums and galleries in London that you can visit with your kids in 2023.
1. Natural History Museum
Inside The Natural History Museum, London
The Natural History Museum is a must-visit for families. It’s home to over 80 million specimens, including a life-size blue whale, a T-Rex skeleton, and a giant squid. There are plenty of interactive exhibits and activities for kids, including a hands-on science centre and a wildlife garden. The museum is open every day, and admission is free.
2. British Museum
UK – London – Bloomsbury: British Museum
The British Museum is one of the world’s greatest museums, and it’s completely free to visit. It’s home to a vast collection of art and artefacts from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the Sutton Hoo treasure. There are also plenty of family-friendly activities and workshops, such as storytelling sessions and craft workshops.
3. Science Museum
The Science Museum is another great free museum to visit with kids. It’s packed with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that explore the world of science and technology. Highlights include the interactive Launchpad gallery, which is packed with over 50 hands-on exhibits, and the Wonderlab gallery, which is home to live experiments and demonstrations.
4. National Gallery
The National Gallery is one of the world’s greatest art museums, and it’s completely free to visit. It’s home to over 2,300 paintings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, including works by Vermeer, Van Gogh, and Botticelli. There are also plenty of family-friendly activities and workshops, such as storytelling sessions and art workshops.
5. Tate Britain
Tate Britain is one of the world’s leading galleries of British art, and it’s completely free to visit. It’s home to a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art from the 16th century to the present day. Highlights include works by J.M.W. Turner, John Constable, and William Blake.
6. National Portrait Gallery
National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery is a great free museum to visit with kids. It’s home to a vast collection of portraits of famous British people, from kings and queens to pop stars and politicians. There are also plenty of family-friendly activities and workshops, such as storytelling sessions and art workshops.
7. Victoria and Albert Museum
The Victoria and Albert Museum is the world’s leading museum of art and design, and it’s completely free to visit. It’s home to a vast collection of art and artefacts from around the world, including fashion, furniture, ceramics, and jewellery. There are also plenty of family-friendly activities and workshops, such as storytelling sessions and craft workshops.
8. Saatchi Gallery
The Saatchi Gallery is one of London’s leading galleries of contemporary art, and it’s completely free to visit. It’s home to a vast collection of works by emerging and established artists from around the world. There are also plenty of family-friendly activities and workshops, such as storytelling sessions and art workshops.
9. V&A Museum of Childhood
The V&A Museum of Childhood is a great free museum to visit with kids. It’s home to a vast collection of toys, games, and other childhood objects from the 1600s to the present day. There are also plenty of family-friendly activities and workshops, such as storytelling sessions and craft workshops.
10. Wallace Collection
The Wallace Collection is a hidden gem in the heart of London, and it’s completely free to visit. It’s home to a vast collection of art and artefacts, including paintings, sculptures, and furniture, from the 15th to the 19th century. Highlights include works by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto.
In conclusion, London is home to some of the most fascinating museums and galleries in the world, and many of them are free to visit. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or science, there’s something for everyone. So why not plan a visit to one of these great free museums and galleries with your kids in 2023?
Historical Landmarks
London is a city with a rich history, and there are many historical landmarks to explore with your kids. Here are some of the top landmarks to visit:
11. Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is one of the most famous landmarks in London. It is the official residence of the British monarch and has been the home of the royal family since 1837. You can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place daily at 11 am during the summer months and every other day during the winter.
12. Tower of London
The Tower of London is a historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames. It was built in the 11th century and has served as a royal palace, prison, and fortress. You can take a guided tour of the castle and see the Crown Jewels, the White Tower, and the famous ravens.
13. St. Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral is an iconic landmark in London. It was designed by Sir Christopher Wren in the 17th century and is one of the largest churches in the world. You can climb to the top of the dome for stunning views of the city.
14. Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is a Gothic church located in the heart of London. It is the traditional place of coronation and burial site for British monarchs. You can take a guided tour of the abbey and see the tombs of famous people such as Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin.
15. Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is a famous suspension bridge located in central London. It was built in the late 19th century and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. You can take a tour of the bridge and see the Victorian engine rooms.
16. Monument to the Great Fire of London
The Monument to the Great Fire of London is a 202-foot-tall column located near the northern end of London Bridge. It was built in the 17th century to commemorate the Great Fire of London, which destroyed much of the city in 1666. You can climb to the top of the monument for great views of the city.
17. Abbey Road
Abbey Road is a famous street in London that is best known for the Beatles’ album cover of the same name. You can visit the famous zebra crossing and take a photo just like the Beatles did. There is also a Beatles-themed gift shop nearby.
These are just some of the historical landmarks you can visit with your kids in London. Each landmark has its own unique history and story to tell.
Parks and Playgrounds
If you’re looking for a fun and free activity to do with your kids in London, there are plenty of parks and playgrounds to choose from. Here are some of the best ones to check out:
18. Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of the largest parks in London and has plenty of space for kids to run around and play. There are several playgrounds within the park, including the South Carriage Drive Playground which has climbing frames, swings and a slide. You can also take a stroll around the Serpentine lake or hire a pedal boat to explore the water.
19. Regent’s Park
Regent’s Park is another large park in London with lots of space for kids to play. The park has several playgrounds, including the Pirate Ship Playground which has a large wooden pirate ship for kids to climb and play on. You can also visit the London Zoo which is located within the park.
20. Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park is a great place to take your kids for a day out. The park has several playgrounds, including the Adventure Playground which has a zip wire, climbing frames and a sand pit. You can also take a walk up to the Royal Observatory and enjoy the stunning views of London.
21. Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill is a small park located in the north of London. The park has a playground with swings, slides and climbing frames, as well as a large hill which offers great views of the city. It’s a great place to have a picnic and enjoy the sunshine.
22. Battersea Park
Battersea Park is a large park located in South London. The park has several playgrounds, including the Adventure Playground which has a zip wire, climbing frames and a sand pit. You can also take a stroll around the lake or visit the Children’s Zoo which is located within the park.
23. Playgrounds
In addition to the playgrounds within the parks, there are also several standalone playgrounds throughout London. Some of the best ones include the Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens, which has a large wooden pirate ship for kids to play on, and the Holland Park Playground which has a sandpit, climbing frames and a zip wire.
Overall, London has plenty of parks and playgrounds to keep your kids entertained for hours. Whether you’re looking for a large park with lots of space to run around or a small playground to play on, there’s something for everyone.
River Thames
The River Thames is one of the most iconic landmarks in London, and it’s also a great place to take your kids for a fun day out. Here are some of the best things to do on the River Thames with your children.
24. Thames River Cruise
A Thames River Cruise is a fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective. There are plenty of companies that offer river cruises, and many of them have special packages for families. Some of the top sights you can see on a Thames River Cruise include:
- Tower Bridge
- Tower of London
- St. Paul’s Cathedral
- The Shard
- The London Eye
You can also choose between different types of cruises, such as hop-on-hop-off tours or evening cruises with dinner and entertainment. Check out MadeForMums for more information on Thames River Cruises for families.
25. London Eye
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The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel located on the South Bank of the River Thames. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in London, and it’s a great place to take your kids for a bird’s eye view of the city. The London Eye has 32 capsules, each of which can hold up to 25 people. The ride takes about 30 minutes, and you’ll get to see some of the top sights in London, including:
- Big Ben
- Houses of Parliament
- Buckingham Palace
- Tower Bridge
- St. Paul’s Cathedral
You can book your tickets in advance online to avoid the queues. Check out the official London Eye website for more information.
Overall, the River Thames is a great place to take your kids for a fun day out. Whether you’re taking a Thames River Cruise or riding the London Eye, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.
Family Attractions
London is an amazing place to visit with your family, and there are plenty of free things to do with kids. However, if you’re looking for some paid attractions that are worth the money, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best family attractions in London:
26. London Zoo
London Zoo is a great place to visit with kids. It’s home to over 750 different species of animals, including lions, tigers, monkeys, and penguins. You can also see the famous Komodo dragons and the giant Galapagos tortoises. There are plenty of interactive exhibits and activities for kids, including the Animal Adventure Zone and the Rainforest Life exhibit.
27. Madame Tussauds
The exterior of Madame Tussaud’s waxworks Museum in London, Monday, March 5, 2007. Blackstone Group LP agreed to buy Tussauds Group, owner of London’s Madame Tussaud’s waxworks Museum, for 1 billion pounds ($1.9 billion) to create the world’s second-biggest operator of tourist attractions.
Photographer: Suzanne Plunkett/Bloomberg News
Madame Tussauds is a must-visit attraction in London, especially if you’re a fan of celebrities. You can take selfies with wax figures of your favourite stars, including Beyoncé, David Beckham, and the Royal Family. There are also plenty of interactive exhibits, including the Marvel Superheroes 4D Experience and the Star Wars Experience.
28. Hamleys Toy Store
Hamleys is the oldest and largest toy shop in the world, and it’s a great place to visit with kids. The store is spread over seven floors, and it’s packed with all kinds of toys, from classic board games to the latest tech gadgets. There are also plenty of interactive displays and activities for kids, including the Hamleys Magic Kingdom and the Hamleys Toy Parade.
29. London Dungeon
The London Dungeon is a thrilling attraction that takes you on a journey through 1000 years of London’s dark history. You’ll experience live actors, special effects, and rides as you explore the city’s most gruesome tales. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but older kids will love it.
30. Harry Potter Studio Tour
If you’re a fan of Harry Potter, you won’t want to miss the Harry Potter Studio Tour. You’ll get to explore the sets, costumes, and props from the Harry Potter films, including the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and Platform 9 3/4. You can also try your hand at wand duelling and sample some Butterbeer.
31. West End Shows
London’s West End is home to some of the best theatre shows in the world, and there are plenty of family-friendly options to choose from. The Lion King, Matilda, and Shrek are all great shows that kids will love. You can also find discounted tickets if you book in advance or visit during off-peak times.
32. National Maritime Museum
The National Maritime Museum is a great place to visit if you’re interested in ships, sailors, and the sea. There are plenty of interactive exhibits and activities for kids, including the AHOY! Children’s Gallery and the Great Map. You can also explore the historic ships in the museum’s collection, including the Cutty Sark and the Royal Navy’s HMS Victory.
33. Imperial War Museum
The Imperial War Museum is a fascinating museum that explores the history of war and conflict. There are plenty of interactive exhibits and activities for kids, including the Secret War exhibition and the Family in Wartime exhibition. You can also explore the museum’s collection of military vehicles, including tanks and fighter planes.
These are just a few of the family attractions that London has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a day out at the zoo or a thrilling ride through London’s dark history, there’s something for everyone. So why not plan a family day out and explore everything that London has to offer?
In conclusion, if you’re looking for free things to do in London with your kids, you’re in luck! There are plenty of activities to keep your little ones entertained without spending a penny. Take a trip to one of the city’s museums, enjoy the outdoors at a park, or visit a historic landmark. London has it all! By making the most of these free activities, you can create special memories and experiences for your family without breaking the bank.