The Best Ideas For Visiting London With Kids

Visiting any city can be a difficult thing to do with kids. They more than likely won’t be interested in boring adult stuff like art galleries, fancy places to eat or West End shows. And London in particular is full of ‘adult’ activities like these. So the question is; what can you do in London with your kids? Well, actually quite a lot! If you and the family have taken advantage of the best London Paddington hotel deals this summer then let us take you through some of the best family friendly activities you can all enjoy together.

Science Museum 

The Science Museum is a true highlight of the city, and actually one of the best anywhere in the world. Based just a short walk through Hyde Park from the Chilworth London Paddington hotel it’s easy to access. Entry is totally free, although contributions are encouraged if you enjoy yourselves and are able. The interactive nature of the Science Museum will easily keep your kids fully absorbed no matter their age. ‘The Launchpad’ on the third floor is an interactive playground for school aged kids, with science based video games, sensory exhibits and live science shows in the theatre. If you have younger kids then try the ‘Pattern Pod’ to engage kids up to 8 with multisensory displays and activities. Head over to the Space and Physics section to have your mind blown by the universe. In short, your kids will love it, and it’s more than likely that the adults in your group will too!    

Natural History Museum

Along the same line as the first option and handily located right next door, these two museums are the perfect rainy day activity with kids. After they have blown off some steam in the Science Museum, head to the Natural History Museum and see the wonder on their faces as they experience the dinosaur kingdom first hand. The gigantic fosil arrangements and displays are, once again, some of the best anywhere in the world; and entry is still completely free. Watch their minds be blown as they experience the gigantic T-Rex in the dinosaur room, or their incredulity at the sheer size of the blue whale skeleton hanging in the auditorium. Believe me, this place will leave them wanting to come back as soon as possible. 

The London Dungeons

If your kids are a bit older, and a bit more difficult to keep happy, then try the London Dungeons. By now it’s an absolute icon of London, there is a fee to enter, but it is well worth it. Explore the gruesome history of London through its tumultuous history in this immersive experience. Escape Jack the Ripper and the fire of London, assist Guy Fawkes with his dastardly plan and feel Henry VIII’s wrath on the boat ride. This experience will delight and scare you in equal measure, and you will all learn about London’s history at the same time. It’s a pretty great way to spend an afternoon.   

Tower of London

The Tower is another attraction that is excellent for kids and adults alike. It has stood for 1,000 years, and played host to criminals and royals, often at the same time. It has been used as a prison, an armoury, and an execution site, and is now the home of the treasured Crown Jewels. The Beefeaters are the royal guard that look after the keep and will take you on guided tours; they delight in telling you and the kids the gruesome history of the castle and about its resident ghosts. You can check out the in-house Ravens , who are cared for by the Beefeaters and who are crucial to London’s survival. This historic and iconic structure is a key part of London’s history, and makes for a great time with the family.    

LegoLand

LegoLand is one of the ultimate destinations for young families in London. Just a short train journey from the city centre, it is easily accessible from your hotels near London Paddington Station. With rides for kids that range from baby to teen, all the bases are covered; if you have a thrill seeking young teen then head to the rollercoasters, or if you need to, you can ride with your young children on many of the family friendly rides. Visit the world famous Miniland to see over 42 million lego bricks built into iconic locations and landmarks from around the world. Fun for kids and adults, LegoLand is a day of guaranteed great time. 

Harry Potter in London

Harry Potter and London go hand in hand; and I’m sure there will be a large part of your family who are very familiar with the books or the films, or both. Potterheads can be found in any age group so this is not necessarily aimed at kids, adults will love these activities too! First off, check out some of the Harry Potter guided tours around the city. 

An excellent day out led by an enthusiastic and engaging expert on the city and more importantly, Harry Potter. Walk the city and see actual filming locations and areas mentioned in the books. The Ministry of Magic, the Leaky Cauldron and the famous King’s Cross platform 9 ¾. Aside from all the Harry Potter excitement, the tours are a great way to see the city on foot, as you’ll walk past all the major landmarks, and your guide will fill you in on the city’s history.

The next thing on any ‘Potter Head’s’ list should be the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Located just a short train ride from the city centre, you can tour the studio where the magic was created. Get into the Gryffindor Commonroom, Dumbledore’s office and even the actual night bus! Stop off for a cream soda and a visit to the truly incredible gift store, and your perfect day will be complete!   

So there you have it, some of the best things you can do in London with the whole family. Just remember, you don’t have to drag the kids around doing things they don’t want to do, and you adults don’t have to do a bunch of childish activities to keep the kids happy. There is so much on offer to please everyone, just get out there and explore! Then you can return to the most comfortable accommodation Paddington London has to offer, The Chilworth Hotel, stick on a movie, grab some dinner and relax in the spa. That last bit is for the adults only!