The Ultimate London Family Holiday Guide: What to See, Where to Stay & Travel Tips
Planning a family trip to London? You’re in the right place. London is one of those cities that just works for families. One minute you’re watching street performers in Covent Garden, the next you’re standing under a blue whale skeleton or spotting a royal guard in full uniform. It’s a mix of iconic sights, free museums, green parks and surprisingly easy transport which is exactly why it’s such a great destination for a London family vacation.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
- The best things to do in London with kids
- Where to stay (including why Bloomsbury is such a good shout)
- Simple travel tips to make your trip smoother
- And a realistic 3-day family itinerary you can actually follow
Plan the perfect London family holiday with Imperial London Hotels.
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Planning a Family Trip to London
London has a good balance: it’s exciting without being overwhelming (when you plan it right). There are plenty of things to do in London with kids, be it with toddlers, curious school-age explorers or teens in tow.
You’ll find:
- World-famous museums (many are free)
- Outdoor spaces for running off energy
- Interactive attractions for rainy days
- And plenty of places to stop for snacks, ice cream or a quick recharge
While you’re exploring London with your family, where you stay can make a big difference. Ideally, you want somewhere that feels a little calmer but still puts you right in the heart of the city. That’s exactly where Bloomsbury comes in.
It’s one of those rare neighbourhoods where everything feels within reach, yet you’re not caught up in the busiest parts of central London. You can take in the energy of the city, then step back into a quieter, more relaxed setting when you need it.
So, why is Bloomsbury such a great base for families?
There’s a real sense of character here. This is the neighbourhood where the famous Bloomsbury Group once lived and wrote, and you’ll spot blue plaques dotted along the streets. It genuinely feels like you’re staying somewhere with stories to tell. But beyond the history, it’s simply an easy, comfortable place to explore from. Families like this neighbourhood because of its:
Walkable attractions: The British Museum is just around the corner, and Russell Square is perfect for a quick break or a picnic
Coram’s Fields nearby: A unique, free children-only park with playgrounds, sandpits and even animals
Great transport links: Russell Square, Holborn, King’s Cross and Euston are all close by, so getting across London is simple
Best things to do in London with kids
We hear you, travelling and exploring a city with kids can be a lot, when you are thinking about ease and making sure everyone is having a good time. Here are some suggestions that will ensure good fun!
King’s Guard soldiers in bearskin hats and grey greatcoats during a ceremonial drill in London, with fallen autumn leaves underfoot.
Buckingham Palace & Changing the Guard
What is a trip to London without a little royal moment? Watching the guards in full uniform is one of those “wow, we’re really here” experiences especially for first-time visitors.
Before heading over, grab a quick breakfast nearby. Try Regency Café (a proper London classic) or something lighter from Pret or Café Nero around Westminster for ease.
Cost: Free
Good for: First-time visitors, sunny days
From Bloomsbury: Short Tube ride
Tip: Arrive early for a good picture‑perfect moment with family.
The Great Court at the British Museum, featuring its iconic glass roof and central Reading Room in central London.
British Museum
Two million years of history in one place and it’s free. From Egyptian mummies to the Rosetta Stone, it’s one of those places where kids can feel like little explorers for the day.
Cost: Free
Good for: Rainy days, culture lovers
From Bloomsbury: Walkable
Tip: Don’t try to see everything, pick a few highlights and take it slow.
After, walk for about 10 mins and enjoy a family-friendly bite at Poppadom Indian Kitchen. This spot is great for sharing. If you are around here during lunch, try their Dabbawala lunch menu, £18 for three courses (a steal compared to London prices). It comes in stacked tiffins and full flavour.
Whale skeleton suspended beneath the vaulted ceiling of the Natural History Museum’s Hintze Hall in South Kensington, London.
Natural History Museum
Dinosaurs, volcanoes and a giant blue whale, the Natural History Museum is always a roar-some hit. Expect wide eyes, lots of questions, and a few “wait, is this real?” moments.
Afterwards, stop by Ben’s Cookies for a sweet treat or grab something easy from the museum cafés.
Cost: Free (main galleries)
Good for: Curious kids
From Bloomsbury: Tube ride
Tip: Go early to avoid queues, especially during school holidays.
Science Museum
Hands-on exhibits, interactive zones and plenty of “can we do that again?” moments, the Science Museum is where learning feels like play (and where kids burn off just enough energy).
Cost: Free (main areas)
Good for: Rainy days, ages 5+
From Bloomsbury: Tube ride
Exterior of an aquarium building with a curved colonnade, central flagpole and clear blue sky overhead.
SEA LIFE London Aquarium
A fin-tastic indoor option, especially if the weather turns. From sharks to glowing jellyfish, the aquarium is immersive, calm and surprisingly mesmerising for both kids and adults.
Pair it with a bite along the South Bank, Giraffe is great for families, or go casual with riverside snacks.
Cost: Paid
Good for: Rainy days, animal lovers
From Bloomsbury: Tube ride
Directional signpost showing walking times from Camden Town to Regent’s Park, London Zoo, Primrose Hill and Camden Lock.
London Zoo & Regent’s Park
A full day out with animals, playgrounds and space to run around. It’s a wild one (in the best way), especially for younger kids who love spotting animals in real life.
For food, pack a picnic or stop at cafés inside the zoo or head into Regent’s Park for a relaxed lunch break.
Cost: Paid
Good for: Sunny days
From Bloomsbury: Short travel
Covent Garden
Street performers, little shops, a lot of fun in the air, Covent Garden is one of those places where you can just wander and something entertaining always happens. Expect music, laughs and maybe even a magic show.
Cost: Free to explore
Good for: All ages
From Bloomsbury: Walk or short Tube
When it’s time for a break, you’ve got plenty of easy, family-friendly options nearby. If you fancy a sit-down meal, Jamie Oliver Catherine St is a great choice, relaxed, welcoming, and known for having a proper kids’ menu with crowd-pleasers and something entertaining always happens.
Stop by Shake Shack, Five Guys, or grab gelato from nearby spots for an easy family treat everyone will enjoy.
For something quicker (perfect when little legs are tired), Kung Fu Mama is a solid go-to. Think fresh noodle bowls and bao - fast, flavour-packed and easy to grab and go while you keep exploring
London Eye & South Bank
Big views, riverside walks and everything happening around you, this is London at its most lively. Seeing the city from above is always a highlight (and surprisingly calming).
Cost: Paid
Good for: First-time trips
From Bloomsbury: Tube
Warner Bros. Studio Tour (Harry Potter)
For older kids (and honestly, adults too), this is pure magic. Walking through the Great Hall to see how the films were made, it’s a full “how did they do that?” day out.
Cost: Paid
Good for: Ages 7+, fans
From Bloomsbury: Day trip
Tip: Book well in advance, it sells out quickly.
Hamleys & Leicester Square
Shopping timmeee! Loud, colourful and a little chaotic but in a fun way. Think live toy demos, LEGO heaven, and wide-eyed excitement everywhere you look. Grab treats nearby in China Town or keep it simple with quick bites around Piccadilly.
Cost: Free to enter
Good for: All ages
From Bloomsbury: Walk or Tube
Tip: Set a budget before you go.
Free and Low-Cost Family Things to Do in London
London is brilliant when it comes to keeping things fun and budget-friendly. You really don’t need to spend a lot to have a great day out with the family. Some of the best experiences in the city are completely free and often just as memorable as the big-ticket attractions.
Here are a few easy tips:
- British Museum: perfect for a relaxed, cultural morning (and great for a rainy day)
- Natural History Museum: dinosaurs, giant whales and plenty of “wow” moments
- Science Museum: interactive and engaging, especially for curious little minds
- South Bank walk: street performers, views of the Thames and space to stroll
- Covent Garden performers: music, magic and something unexpected around every corner
- Hyde Park or Regent’s Park: space to run, picnic and just slow down
- Coram’s Fields: a central London playground just for kids
- Russell Square Gardens: perfect for a quick breather near Bloomsbury
- Changing the Guard: a classic London moment that doesn’t cost a thing
Free doesn’t mean boring for kids, it’s all about the experience, not the price tag.
Things to Do with Toddlers, Kids and Teens
Every family is different and what works for a toddler won’t always work for a teen (and vice versa). The key is mixing it up and choosing activities that fit your pace.
Best for Toddlers and Younger Children
- Keep things simple, flexible and close by.
- Coram’s Fields for safe, enclosed playtime
- Russell Square for quick outdoor breaks
- Science Museum interactive areas
- Short museum visits (think 60–90 minutes, not full days)
- Parks and playgrounds to burn off energy
Best for Primary School Kids
- This is where London really shines, loads to see and plenty to keep them engaged.
- Natural History Museum (dinosaurs = instant win)
- Science Museum (hands-on fun)
- London Zoo
- Tower Bridge (walk across and explore)
- Covent Garden performers
- London Eye for those big “wow” views
Best for Teens
- If you’ve got teens in tow, think a little more variety and independence.
- Harry Potter Studio Tour
- Camden Market (food, shopping, music vibes)
- West End shows
- Immersive experiences and gaming venues
- South Bank for a more “local London” feel
Where to Stay in London with Kids
Guests planning their London itinerary around a city map in a hotel room, highlighting attractions and routes near Bloomsbury.
Why central London works best for families
Staying centrally makes everything easier. You’ll spend less time travelling, it’s easier to pop back for a break, and you can fit more into your day without feeling rushed.
Best Imperial London Hotels for families
Best for families and groups
- Royal National Hotel
- President Hotel
- Best for interconnecting rooms
- City Sleeper
Best for a quieter stay
- Bedford Hotel
- President Hotel (views of Russell Square)
- Best for character
- Morton Hotel
- Tavistock Hotel
Best for value-led family breaks
- Royal National Hotel
- Tavistock Hotel
- President Hotel
A few simple tips can make a big difference when you’re travelling around London with kids.
Two children looking out from the upper deck of a London bus, spotting sights through large windows on a family day out.
Getting Around by Tube, Bus and Walking
The Tube is the quickest way to get around, but don’t underestimate how walkable central London is. Sometimes it’s easier (and more enjoyable) to walk between nearby attractions rather than hopping on and off transport, especially with kids. Buses are also a great option - slower, but scenic (and the top deck is always a hit)
Booking Ahead
It’s always worth booking in advance for:
London Eye
West End shows
Harry Potter Studio Tour
popular exhibitions
It saves time, avoids long queues, and gives you one less thing to think about on the day.
Managing Busy Days
This is the one parents always underestimate, less really is more.
Try to:
plan one major attraction per day
build in snack or park breaks
leave space for spontaneity
A relaxed day always beats an overpacked one
What to Pack for a Family Day Out
Water and snacks (always!)
Layers, London weather likes to keep you guessing
Portable charger
Hand sanitiser
A small activity for queues (lifesaver)
A Curated 3-Day London Family Itinerary
Day 1: Bloomsbury, Museums and Royal London
British Museum
Russell Square or Coram’s Fields
Buckingham Palace or Covent Garden
Day 2: South Kensington Museums and Parks
Natural History Museum
Science Museum
Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens
Day 3: Big London Moments
Tower of London or Tower Bridge
South Bank walk
London Eye or Hamleys
Family Food & Rest Stops
The secret to a good day? Plan your breaks before everyone gets tired or hungry.
Around Bloomsbury, you’ll find:
- Casual cafés and takeaway spots like Cafe 49 for a quick takeaway or Blooms Pizza Café for something easy and cosy.
- Picnic options in Russell Square, Cafe Tropea inside the square or head to The Atrium Garden nearby for a quieter, more spacious spot.
- Easy family-friendly dining: Poppadom Indian Kitchen for sharing plates, or if you want something classic and comforting, head to The London Pub for a proper British roast
Plan Your London Family Break From Bloomsbury
A family holiday in London doesn’t have to be stressful. Just keep it simple:
Stay somewhere central
Mix big attractions with free experiences
Don’t overpack your days
Build in time to pause, snack and reset