There’s a big difference between planning a couple’s getaway, and a family vacation. Traveling with children changes things. London is obviously a city that has attractions for all ages, however, this does not mean you shouldn’t be picky about where you stay; some options are simply better than others for travelling families. So whether you want to stay in London with kids or just travel for a getaway, here are some options you may want to consider.
London Waterloo, South Bank and Bankside
South Bank is an entertainment hub in the center of the city. The location is great since some of the best attractions in the city are there, like Big Ben. Close by is Bankside, with attractions like Tate Modern, and Shakespeare’s Glob theatre. With various fun activities and many kid-friendly restaurants, there is plenty to see and do. And with Waterloo Station around the corner, getting where you want to go is easy.
South Kensington
A South Kensington hotel stay guarantees you are close to London’s Museum Quarter, a hotspot popular among children because of the dinosaur displays. The Science Museum offers a unique experience with its interactive exhibits. Among other kid-friendly attractions are the numerous parks and gardens nearby—Hyde Park is huge, and perfect for children that love the outdoors. And with easy access to public transportation, getting around the rest of the city will be a breeze.
St. James
A short walking distance from London’s West End, this area is very close to many popular attractions. You can see the changing of the Royal Guard and go to the lovely St. James’s Park for a family picnic, where organized activities are often the highlight of the day. Trafalgar Square will surely be on your to-do list, and be sure to visit Hamleys—the oldest toy shop in the world—which is located on Regent Street.
Greenwich
East of South Bank is Greenwich. Seen by many locals as one of the best family spots in the city, the atmosphere is charming and many of hotels in the area are perfect for families. You can enjoy the National Maritime Museum and the Queen’s House. If kids love astrology, the Royal Observatory’s is a must. Other attractions to be considered are the river cruise and the Emirates Air Line cable car.
Forest Hill And Crystal Palace
These London locales are not always considered by families, but it’s really a shame if they are overlooked. The suburbs offer many different parks to visit, along with some excellent kid-friendly attractions like the Tower of London. If you take the train you can reach London Bridge in just half an hour. In fact, most of London is highly accessible due to the availability of efficient public transportation options.
Anna Marikar, mum of four and seasoned blogger, has spent over a decade sharing her parenting journey and passion for kid-friendly crafts and free printables.
Her easy-to-follow craft ideas and practical parenting advice have transformed In The Playroom into a cherished resource for parents.