💂🏼‍♂️ 12 must-do activities for families in London 👑

1. Explore the Natural History Museum 🦕

Why it's great for families: This museum is free and will fascinate children with its life-size dinosaur skeletons, volcano and earthquake gallery and interactive exhibits. A perfect place to amaze little inquisitive minds while providing an educational moment. While it's free to enter, we do recommend booking tickets in advance, especially during busier times, to make sure you don't have to wait too long.

2. A boat trip on the Thames ⛴️

Why it's great for families: Seeing London from the water is an adventure for all ages. Kids will love the boat ride and parents can enjoy a break from sightseeing while admiring iconic landmarks such as Tower Bridge and the London Eye. It's also a great way to get from A to B in London. There are even Uber Boats by Thames Clippers that stop at 24 piers along the Thames between Barking Riverside Pier in the East and Putney Pier in the West. Just like the Tube, you'll need to tap on and off.

3. Discover the world of Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studios ⚡️

Why it's great for families: Harry Potter fans young and old will love seeing the original sets, props and costumes from the films. A magical immersion in the world of the famous wizard, with interactive activities such as flying on a broomstick. Of course, for free, you can also visit Leadenhall Market and Platform 9 3/4 (Kings Cross Station).

4. Visit Far Far Away at Shrek's Adventure London 💚

Why it's great for families: If your kids are too young to be Harry Potter fans yet, or if you want to keep up the theme of film experiences, then Shrek's Adventure London is a great shout. The immersive experience is great family fun where you'll be thrown into 10 fairytale themed live shows. Kids can even interact with the characters as they collect the special ingredients needed to find Shrek and get home safely.

5. Meet the animals at London Zoo 🦍

Why it's great for families: Located in beautiful Regent's Park, this zoo is home to over 650 species. You can see lions, penguins and even gorillas. Educational activities and children's areas make it an unforgettable day out for the whole family.

6. Visit the aquarium at SEA LIFE London 🐡

Why it's great for families: With over 500 species from around the world and 14 themed zones and the world's longest coral reef display, Sealife is sure to keep you and your kids occupied for hours. Booking online can save you some cash, plus you’ll be able to reschedule if plans change which is a huge plus!

7. Spend the day with Paddington Bear 🐻

Why it's great for families: Another great immersive experience for kids is the Paddington Bear Experience. You'll be able to step into Paddington's world featuring interactive gameplay. You can even try the famous marmalade sandwich.

8. Live an adventure at the Science Museum 🤖

Why it's great for families: This interactive museum has fascinating exhibits on space, robots and technological innovations. Kids can touch, experiment and even fly a flight simulator. Perfect for sparking their curiosity and having fun at the same time. The best part? It's free! You could easily spend a full day here while in London.

9. See the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace 💂🏼‍♂️

Why it's great for families: The Changing of the Guard is a fascinating event to share with children who love the colourful uniforms and music of the marching bands. It's a free activity that offers a quintessentially London experience.

10. Meet celebrities at Madame Tussauds 🕯️

Why it's great for families: While it might sound very cliché to visit Madame Tussauds while on holiday, we just love it. It's a classic for a reason, and seeing as London has the original museum, it's really the best place to see it. Besides sighting your favourite celebs, the museum also features interactive zones and experiences.

11. Go way up high in the London Eye! 🎡

Why it's great for families: Besides being a totally iconic part of the London skyline, the London Eye allows you and your family to get a new perspective of London with 360° views. On a clear day, you can even see as far as Windsor Castle. Plus, it's just so fun for small kids! We recommend booking early to guarantee the best price, as buying the day of will be the most expensive option.

12. Picnic and play in Hyde Park or Regent's Park 🐿️

Why it's great for families: A nature break in the heart of London. The parks offer children's playgrounds, pedalos on the lake and even puppet shows. Perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. Plus, it's easy on the wallet. London activities can definitely rack up, so this is a great way to help save. Grab a meal deal from your favourite shop (a very passionate topic at HolidayPirates as we each have our own preference 😉) and you're set for lunch or dinner.

💡 Pirate tips:

• Transport: Choose an Oyster Card or a family pass for travel on the metro and buses.

• Catering: Many cafes and restaurants offer children's menus and adapted areas.

• Accommodation: Look for family-friendly hotels or apartments near attractions to reduce travel time. To get the cheapest option for your hotel in London, try to book as far in advance as you can. Check out the range of budget hotels on offer including Travelodge, Premier Inn, easyHotel, ibis, and our fav budget hotel chain: Premier Inn Hub.

• Attractions: Purchasing the London Pass can save you money if you are looking to do some of the attractions included with the pass. You can choose how many days you want to have the pass, from 1 through to 10 days, and then cram as many attractions in as you can during your trip.

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