52 free issues to do in London with youngsters

There’s no denying that my dwelling metropolis may be costly – however with so many free issues to do in London with youngsters, there are many household days out that received’t price you a penny.

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Whether or not you’re searching for an affordable time out in London with youngsters, wish to combine some price range 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 very best 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 free of charge

Palaces, historic landmarks, even some conventional ceremonies which return centuries – these free issues to do with youngsters in London are unmissable.

When you’re able to get strolling, I’ve bought 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 whole stroll stretches for seven miles, however if you happen to – understandably – don’t fancy doing that each one in sooner or later with youngsters, you too can 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 too can see Tower Bridge raise round 800 instances a yr.

The central sections may 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 printed prematurely.

You will get among 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 woman 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 fully free. The £5 charge per ticket continues to be nicely value it to look at historical past in motion although, one of the crucial 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 must be locked at sundown and unlocked at dawn from that time on. And the custom continues to at the present time, with the go to now beginning at 9.30pm: tickets accessible 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 need a glimpse of the State Residences 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 dwelling), comes completely free.

When you spy the Royal Normal 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 underneath scaffolding for years throughout an extended restoration challenge however has fortunately now been unveiled as soon as extra.

The 96m tall clocktower dates again to 1859 and with London site visitors (and many guests climbing the steps inside as a part of the Massive Ben excursions), the renovations had 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, apart from particular events however has resumed the well-known ‘booooong’ all through the day as soon as work is full.

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 every of London’s hottest free points of interest as they march of their well-known bearskin hats as a full navy 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 Outdated Guard fingers over to the New Guard in a ceremony which takes round an hour.

You can even see the guards beginning to kind 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 (each day in June/July) however could also be cancelled for main occasions in addition to notably unhealthy climate – examine it’s going forward earlier than you queue.

Anticipate to get there early if you would like a great spot – being too near the palace isn’t all the time supreme, as you don’t essentially have the very best view by way of the gates. When you’re visiting London with youthful youngsters, get a style at Wellington Barracks on Birdcage Stroll beforehand, the place you may spot them forming up and listen to the music at round 10.15.

For a much less busy choice, you too can see the Queen’s Life Guard change on Horse Guards Parade, which tends to be much less busy – 11am each day, besides on Sundays when it takes place at 10am.

For extra royal locations in London to go to with youngsters, try my choose of the very best, from palaces to castles and extra

Hop on a London bus

One other icon of London, a pink double-decker bus is a good 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 very best view.

Strictly talking, this one is simply free for teenagers underneath 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 cut price – playing cards solely, no money. Take a look at this submit for extra particulars of utilizing public transport in London with youngsters). 

Sadly the final of the traditional Routemaster buses has been retired from Route 15 nevertheless it’s nonetheless an important path to see the sights, passing the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral and Trafalgar Sq..

Or route 26 travels from Victoria by way of Westminster Abbey to Horseguards parade, Trafalgar Sq. and on to St Paul’s (changing the outdated 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 e book 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 scuffling with instructions, it’s not difficult to identify.

With a lined 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)

The brand new 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 related views – whereas this one is greater, you don’t get the identical backyard atmosphere although.

Tickets normally turn out to be accessible 60 days prematurely, however get snapped up in a short time. When you’re within the space, flip up between 10am and 12 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.

Positioned on the highest flooring of 120 Fenchurch Road, a couple of minutes from Leadenhall Market, the raise takes you as much as the biggest public rooftop area 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: good 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, take pleasure in some avenue theatre or uncover the most recent shows. At Christmas, big baubles dangle from the glass roof, when you may additionally discover something from Lego creations to occasional leisure on the massive 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 brilliant buildings.

When you’re searching for the very best locations to remain close to Covent Backyard with youngsters, try my choose of household inns in London

Artwork in Trafalgar Sq.

Trafalgar Sq. may 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 a large blue cockerel and a bronze skeletal horse to a ship in a bottle, and The Finish, a large swirl of whipped cream with a cherry and a fly on prime, whereas a drone transmitted a stay feed of Trafalgar Sq..

Antelope by Samson Kambalu 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 extra free London museums with youngsters

Go to Parliament

When you’re a UK resident, there are a number of methods you may get into the Homes of Parliament free of charge (in any other case there are additionally paid excursions and a digital tour on supply).

You’ll be able to e book as much as six months prematurely by contacting your MP (no matter you consider their politics!), to hitch a 75-minute official tour by way of the Palace of Westminster, so you may uncover extra concerning the historical past and traditions of Parliament and its dwelling.

It’s value figuring out that these don’t run on daily basis (and never at weekends)

Alternatively, you too can get a free ticket to see a debate, both within the Home of Commons or the Home of Lords – value doing if you happen to fancy taking in one of many extra common debates.

You’ll want ID, there’s airport-style safety and it’s an excellent plan to decorate fairly well too.

In any other case you may probability your luck on the day and queue to get in to see the Home in session – recess very often coincides with faculty holidays nonetheless, 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 web site.

However simply one of the crucial spectacular is the London Mithraeum. The Roman temple of Mithras was based within the third century by the Walbrook, one in every of 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 authentic web site, underneath Bloomberg’s European Headquarters at 12 Walbrook, together with interactive shows and data for teenagers. It’s free to enter however prebooked tickets are really useful.

For extra Roman websites in London to go to with youngsters, try my submit – together with loads of free choices

Discover a Roman amphitheatre

Head over to the Metropolis of London and you will discover one other Roman spotlight at Guildhall Yard – stroll across the open area 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 sector partitions.

The Artwork Gallery itself can be free to go to, and also you’ll usually discover occasions happening in Guildhall Yard or as one of many areas for occasions masking 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 be taught concerning the property which as soon as provided the palace, its royal guests, plus there are free trails for teenagers to comply with.

Outdoors, the 13-acre gardens embody a pure play space, and there are common occasions and actions throughout faculty holidays. Tickets to the home and museum are free however have to be prebooked.

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 too can be a part of the Thames Path right here.

Get outdoor in London

Regardless of being one of many largest cities on the planet, London additionally scores nicely on the subject of inexperienced area, with a sequence of pretty parks. You’ll additionally discover loads of probability to get outdoor in London alongside the Thames and at some specifically designed trails too: all fully 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 area is simply open to households – except you’re visiting with youngsters, you’re not allowed in.

Stretching throughout seven acres, there’s tons to find inside as nicely: a number of play areas, together with a number 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 be dwelling to a bit 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 probably the greatest if you happen to’re visiting London with youngsters.

The most important 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.

For recommendations on extra of the very best playgrounds in London, try this submit

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 dwelling to Winter Wonderland within the run-up to Christmas and numerous occasions through the summer season. But it surely’s a beautiful place to flee the town at any time of the yr.

For teenagers, there’s a playground at South Carriage Drive or you may entertain yourselves by getting totally different views of the water as you cross the three bridges over the Diana Memorial fountain. On sizzling days, you may dip your toes 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 normally discover crowds gathering to pay attention 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 may nonetheless spy folks 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 dwelling right here for the reason that 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 may 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 fantastic too. Hold a watch out for the rose emblems on the bottom marking the Diana Memorial route too.

Regent’s Park

The most important of the royal parks in central London, Regent’s Park is dwelling to London Zoo and an open-air theatre, but in addition loads of points of interest you may take pleasure in free of charge.

In addition to getting a peek at a number of of the zoo’s animals from the trail exterior, the park is one thing of a haven for wildlife, particularly birds.

There are additionally 4 separate playgrounds for teenagers to take pleasure in, or stroll by way of the formal gardens. On the proper time of yr, Queen Mary’s Gardens has 12,000 roses in bloom.

When you’re feeling energetic, you may rent rowing boats and head out onto the lake – though this does have a charge.

For an extended stroll, you may comply with the Regent’s Canal in direction of Camden from right here, or cross into Primrose Hill for probably the greatest views in London. It’s additionally a brief stroll from Baker Road and the varied 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 bushes in autumn, it’s a lovely 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 recommendations on extra of the very best playgrounds in London, try this submit

Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park has probably the greatest views in London, from the hill of the Royal Observatory, gazing all the way down to the Outdated Royal Naval school and throughout the Thames to the Docklands and the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf and the monetary district.

However that’s just one motive 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 way of 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 might additionally head out onto the lake between Easter and October, within the shadow of the Queen’s Home.

It’s an important 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 submit

Battersea Park

Battersea Park is one other pretty place to walk, with a wide range of totally different points of interest if you happen to’re visiting London with youngsters – the bulk have a charge, together with the Go Ape Battersea excessive ropes, Battersea Park Kids’s Zoo, pedal and rowboats on the lake, and Putt within the Park mini golf, however there’s nonetheless loads 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 most important of the royal parks, Richmond Park stretches for an astonishing 2,500 acres and can be a nature reserve.

Most well-known for its herds of untamed deer, each pink and fallow deer, you’ve bought an excellent probability 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 number of glimpses.

It’s vital to do not forget that they’re wild animals although, so don’t attempt to feed them and all the time preserve at the least 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 pretty 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 very best 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 commonly happening, new paintings usually showing, avenue artwork, plus a string of historic websites and main points of interest to see.

The Thames is the center of the town, so a stroll alongside the river is all the time probably the greatest issues to do in London with youngsters. Certainly 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 Trendy and Shakespeare’s Globe theatre.

For extra issues to do on the South Financial institution with youngsters, try my suggestions

Hold going a bit additional to Bankside and you’ll see the Golden Hinde, a recreation of the ship through which 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 an entire string of creative touches. These change continually, however try this stroll alongside the South Financial institution for among the highlights to look out for.

The Think about Kids’s Competition additionally takes place on the South Financial institution, normally in February, working for 12 days and geared toward youngsters aged as much as 11, all fully free.

For one more enjoyable, low-cost strolling tour of London (though not fully free), get 10% off the treasure hunts from Treasure Map trails utilizing code MUMMYTRAVELS

Discover Little Venice

When you’re searching for 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 probably the greatest 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 too can 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

When you go to virtually any one in every of 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.

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 skills, 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 bushes, plus the spotlight of pastel colored playhouses which appear to be terraced homes.

For my full set of the very best playgrounds in London, try this submit

Splash in a fountain

When London basks in one in every of 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), among 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 traces which spring as much as catch the unwary.

Spot the Crystal Palace dinosaurs

A brief prepare trip from central London lies one in every of London’s most uncommon points of interest – and one which, aside from the fare to get there, you may take pleasure in solely free of charge.

Created again in 1854, the 30 life-size fashions are all of extinct animals, together with dinosaurs, based mostly on the very best scientific data of the time – not all of which is kind 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 count on a dinosaur to, they’re nonetheless nicely value seeing. Yow will discover them within the south east facet of Crystal Palace Park, which can be dwelling to one of many nation’s largest mazes, one other Victorian design.

For extra uncommon issues to do in London with youngsters, try my choose of the very best

Discover Hampstead Heath

This large stretch of open heathland stretches from Hampstead to Highgate, and is dwelling 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 among 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 it’s worthwhile to prebook).

When you’re already an English Heritage member, you may go to Kenwood Home free of charge, 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 latest 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 may merely comply with the 13 miles of paths by way of the character reserve, protecting a watch out for wildlife and having fun with the peace as you wander the paths across the reservoirs… whereas pondering the thought that these provide ingesting water for 3.5 million folks on daily basis.

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 succeed in the wetlands themselves.

For one more free various that’s extra central, the newly reopened Camley Road 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 really useful, particularly throughout faculty holidays (though some walk-up tickets are sometimes accessible), 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 submit

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 may 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 pink gentle.

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 also have a little break within the Wildlife Backyard as nicely.

It’s unsurprisingly common, so the free tickets for weekends and faculty holidays do get snapped up quick – don’t go away it too late to e book.

For my recommendations on visiting the Pure Historical past Museum with youngsters, click on right here

Science Museum

A brief stroll from the Pure Historical past Museum, you might even squeeze each these nice free London museums into sooner or later – though you received’t be in need of issues to see at both.

And aside from the interactive displays of Wonderlab, which does have a reserving charge, there’s no cost to go to the Science Museum.

Toddlers and youthful youngsters will love The Backyard, with a lot of possibilities to get hands-on, taking part in with water, making music, sensory shows and big blocks. The Sample Pod is one other nice one for preschoolers and first faculty age too.

And that’s earlier than you try the area gallery, in addition to galleries on communications and data, plus an summary of 250 years of scientific and technological advances which have remodeled our on a regular basis life.

Prebooking tickets is really useful and also you’re suggested to permit at the least two hours for a go to. 

For my recommendations on 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 important place to go to with youngsters.

The mummies and the Historic Egypt galleries are among the many hottest (and normally 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 deliver 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 underneath 5, you need to be capable of skip the queue on the entrance – prebooking tickets is really useful and trails may be downloaded prematurely.

For my recommendations on 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 quickly closed till reopening in its new web site at Smithfield in 2026, though the London Museum Docklands stays open (see under for extra particulars)

It’s an important 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 fashionable instances. You can even choose up trails for teenagers to comply with as they discover.

It additionally tends to be barely quieter than the South Kensington museums at weekends, supreme if you happen to’re making an attempt to flee the crowds with youngsters in London.

Horniman Museum

This pretty museum is exterior central London however is simple to succeed in from London Bridge, and notably enjoyable with youthful youngsters.

With a lot of galleries on totally different themes, the Horniman is sweet for little consideration spans as you may wander from pure historical past to world music and tradition, to see butterflies and wander the grounds exterior (with extra animals to identify there too).

The Nature Base provides youngsters an opportunity to get fingers on, together with stroking a stuffed fox and badger, whereas older ones can be taught extra about conservation too.

The short-term 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 gear.

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 neglected 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 courtroom clothes, and a really surprising automaton of a tiger consuming a person, in addition to statues, sculptures and extra, it’s a superb treasure trove to discover with youngsters.

There are additionally free household occasions throughout faculty holidays and a few weekends, in addition to trails to comply with (obtain earlier than you come or choose up once you arrive – the household backpacks are at the moment unavailable although).

For my recommendations on 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 authentic Paddington Bear toys.

Nonetheless whereas the constructing is identical grand corridor (generally 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 possibilities to get fingers on, whether or not that’s creating your individual board recreation, listening to storytelling, or hitting the sandpit, in addition to new objects occurring show, with a complete of two,000 objects to take pleasure in.

Nationwide Maritime Museum

One of many Royal Museums Greenwich, this free museum traces Britain’s maritime historical past over the centuries, with displays 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 way of the Pacific – the Ahoy gallery is the very best 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 important big map within the coronary heart of the Nationwide Maritime Museum to play on. Prebooking tickets is really useful.

For extra concepts of issues to do in Greenwich with youngsters, click on right here.

Tate Trendy

Set in a transformed energy station on London’s Bankside, Tate Trendy is certainly not your common artwork gallery – youngsters are inspired to speak (and there’s loads of area to run round within the turbine corridor) plus you’ll discover a lot of straightforward methods even for youthful ones to take pleasure in what they see together with advised video games.

The Tate Trendy additionally has advised routes for households to comply with by way of the collections, which embody large names from the twentieth century, similar to Matisse, together with works from the previous decade on show.

It’s a straightforward 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 may see among the best artwork on the planet on the Nationwide Gallery – and also you don’t have to have an in-depth grasp of artwork historical past to take pleasure in trying on the collections.

See how most of the 30 highlights you might 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 faculty holidays, plus loads of concepts of artwork actions for teenagers at dwelling in the event that they’re impressed by a go to. You can even watch movies of curators telling among the tales behind the work (aimed for aged 8+) earlier than you go to. 

London Museum Docklands

The sister web site of the London Museum, the London Museum Docklands sits in a transformed warehouse on West India Quay, as soon as the center of London’s thriving docks business, and it’s the proper place to find this facet of the capital.

With galleries set out in chronological order, you may journey from late Tudor instances when the river site visitors moved east from the wharves across the Tower of London proper by way of to the trendy day, when London’s monetary district took over the world.

There are shows on slavery, you may stroll by way of 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. There are intelligent interactives which imply you needn’t contact the display screen both.

Prebooking tickets is really useful however entry is free, together with to among the short-term exhibitions though there’s a small cost for the Mudlarks play area (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 Battle Museum

Based through the First World Battle, the galleries on the Imperial Battle Museum give attention to the experiences of individuals affected by conflict, 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 most recent galleries embody one masking the Second World Battle, and the museum runs common household occasions throughout faculty 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 really useful for kids aged 14+.

The closest tube station is Lambeth North, though you may 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 may see an entire string of plane from over time, in addition to shows of every little thing from logbooks and hidden maps to survival rations, plus different automobiles.

Youngsters can strive on an RAF uniform or check 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 aircraft.

Tickets are free however prebooking is suggested. You can even prebook automobile parking prematurely if you happen to don’t wish 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 e book character, discovering the town’s artwork or recognizing animals, there are loads 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 may’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 – probably the greatest locations to search out Paddington in London.

The lifesize bronze statue with the label asking folks to take care of this bear is again in its traditional dwelling by Platform 1, after a short stint close to the Praed Road entrance, between Platforms 9 and 10. Hold a watch out for a plaque marking his appearances on the web page and on display screen too.

You can even discover the Paddington bench inside the station, the place youngsters can sit subsequent to him and pose for pictures.

The station can be the place to begin 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 together 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 go away central London to search out him both: there’s additionally a statue of Paddington together 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 films 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 truly filmed between platforms 4 and 5, however there’s an opportunity to pose with a baggage trolley disappearing by way of the wall on the station concourse.

There’s knowledgeable photographer taking pictures, full with the headband of whichever home you select (normally from 9am to 9pm) and an opportunity to purchase these within the store subsequent door, however there’s no obligation and you too can take your individual pictures free of charge.

There’s normally 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 way of 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 grew to become the doorway to the Leaky Cauldron. Or be careful for Demise Eaters as you stroll throughout the Millennium Bridge between Tate Trendy and St Paul’s.

Followers can even 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 Road (previously on Greek Road) if you happen to can resist shopping for a memento.

For extra Harry Potter areas in London, try this submit

Spot avenue artwork

London’s avenue artwork scene is consistently altering, so it’s potential to return many times to see one thing new – however in addition to making particular visits to see the most recent creations, it’s straightforward to see among 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 Road tunnel close to Waterloo – only for starters.

In any other case, elements 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 Road and Spitalfields, there’s avenue artwork to be discovered right here too.

Camden can be value a go to, whereas Walthamstow is making a reputation for its avenue artwork too – comply with the Wooden Road Partitions maps.

For extra issues to do in Camden with youngsters, try my prime picks

And the London Mural Competition noticed greater than 100 artistic endeavors throughout the capital in September 2024 – a lot of which nonetheless stay.

Wander round God’s Personal Junkyard

When you’re visiting Walthamstow on the weekend (or on Fridays), don’t go dwelling and not using a cease at God’s Personal Junkyard, with its piles of neon indicators.

Some are former movie props, however you’ll discover every kind of brightly fantastic creations on show – and heaped up in opposition to the partitions – together with retro indicators, spiritual statues, disco paraphernalia, all free to wander round.

Higher with teenagers and older youngsters (or you might wish to distract youthful youngsters from a number of of the psychedelic delights on show).

Stroll The Line

The Line is London’s first public artwork stroll, an effective 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, working 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, close to The O2, and you might additionally hop on the tube if you happen to’d wish to see each however your youngsters don’t fancy doing all the route on foot – particularly as you may normally depend on getting misplaced at the least as soon as alongside the way in which.

Go to a metropolis farm

When you’re visiting London with youngsters who love animals, add one of many many metropolis farms to your listing, with a string of web sites dotted across the capital.

Freightliners Metropolis Farm (between Caledonian Highway 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 few of the farms have restricted opening hours, so all the time examine straight for the most recent data.

Go to Golders Hill Zoo

When you’re searching for one thing extra unique than home animals, how a few free zoo in London?

Golders Hill Zoo is much smaller than London Zoo (and even Battersea Park Kids’s Zoo) however nonetheless has some distinctly uncommon animals dwelling in its dwelling 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 count on lions or tigers however you may spot ring-tailed lemurs and coatis, in addition to kookaburras and eagle owls, plus a herd of deer. It’s pretty if you happen to’re searching for 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 legendary 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 important expertise when you’re visiting the capital.

Portobello market is the world’s largest vintage market, though you’ll discover vogue, classic and extra on the stalls – Saturday is the principle day to go to right here, and hipster favorite Broadway market in Hackney.

Spitalfields Market is one in every of London’s oldest, and is now open on daily basis, as is Camden market, with some nice meals and a multicultural mixture of homewares, vogue and jewelry. Greenwich market is one other each day choice, with antiques, vogue and meals.

For meals, it’s exhausting 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.

When 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 concept of going for a stroll in a cemetery might sound an odd one, nevertheless it’s truly an interesting time out with youngsters in London – and for sure, normally 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: preserve a watch 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 big 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.

One of the best-known of the cemeteries, Highgate, isn’t free (except you’re a grave proprietor), though the entry cost is minimal (from £4.50 for an grownup ticket to the East Cemetery, 50p for teenagers) and a few of its catacombs are Grade II listed. It’s the ultimate resting place of Karl Marx, George Eliot and poet Christina Rossetti. Archway tube is the closest, quite than Highgate itself.

To purchase a PDF model of this submit 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 printed 2020, final up to date 2024*

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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