Family Vacations in London

When it comes to planning a memorable family trip to London, the city has lots of attractions and activities suitable for children of all ages. From historic landmarks to unique experiences, London is full of excitement for kids and parents alike. Whether you’re travelling to this iconic city for the first time or returning for another adventure, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your family vacations in London.

Where can I take my family out in London?

London is a great playground for families with a wide variety of things to do, including museums and royal attractions that cater to all interests. Here's a little list to get you started:

• Buckingham Palace is a must-see, where families can witness the Changing of the Guard. This gives you an exciting glimpse into British culture. The summer months may even offer an opportunity to explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the palace.
• For those who prefer educational outings, the London Transport Museum is perfect for curious young minds. Here, kids can learn about the city’s transport history through interactive exhibits and even try their hand at driving a virtual bus. This museum marries fun with learning, making it a favourite for families. And if you want a quick break for something to eat, why not head over to Brigit's Bakery on Chandos Place, in Covent Garden? You can have afternoon tea, brunch, or lunch.
• If your family enjoys nature, a stroll through Hyde Park is a must. With expansive green spaces, playgrounds, and a picturesque boating lake, it offers plenty of options for relaxation and play. You can rent pedal boats on the Serpentine, enjoy a picnic, or simply bask in the sunshine while the kids have fun in one of the many play areas.
• For a touch of spookiness, the London Dungeon is a thrilling experience that combines actors, rides, and special effects to bring history to life. It’s an engaging way for kids to learn about London’s darker past in an entertaining format.

What can 8-year-olds do in London?

For eight-year-olds, London is an adventure waiting to happen! Call us biased, but we have a couple of highlights that are bound to impress your children.

Our Peppa Pig Afternoon Tea London Bus Tour is a great experience designed specifically for young fans of Peppa Pig. As families enjoy a themed afternoon tea while cruising past iconic landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the London Eye, our dedicated entertainers keep young ones engaged with sing-alongs and games. It's an interactive and memorable experience.

Another fantastic option is the Paddington Afternoon Tea Bus Tour. Children can indulge in a menu inspired by Paddington Bear's favourite marmalade sandwiches. This tour doesn’t just serve food - it brings stories to life with a guided animation featuring Paddington himself. Your children will have a great time as they learn about the beloved bear's adventures while touring the city.

Is the Tower of London worth it for kids?

Absolutely! The Tower of London is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also one of the most fascinating places to explore for families. The Tower has fantastic history - from being a royal palace to a prison to the home of the crown jewels. Kids love the tales of the Tower's history, especially the stories of prisoners and ravens that live on the grounds.

Guided tours by the Yeoman Warders (or Beefeaters) provide entertaining narratives that will have your children hooked. The Crown Jewels exhibit is another high point, showcasing regalia that's sure to impress both young and old. The interactive elements like the “Wall Walk” allow kids to explore the grounds and offer a sense of adventure as you take in stunning views of the city.

Children can also participate in the various activities hosted at the Tower, such as dressing up as a knight or enjoying themed events during school holidays.

Which area of London Is good for families? Which part of London is best for kids?

• One of the best areas in London for families is South Kensington. This vibrant district is home to eye-catching attractions like the Natural History Museum, where children can marvel at dinosaur skeletons and interactive exhibits. The adjoining Science Museum is a perfect complement with opportunities for space exploration or the wonders of the human body. The Wonderlab showcases super exciting experiments and demonstrations and will capture the children's imaginations while providing educational value.
• Kensington Palace is also nearby. It gives tourists a fantastic look into royal history, complete with beautiful gardens to explore. During summer months, the gardens are particularly beautiful, and families can often participate in various outdoor events and workshops tailored for children.
• Another family-friendly neighbourhood is Covent Garden, full or street performances and shops - it's a vibrant area full of life where families can enjoy live music and entertainment. Our nearby Brigit's Bakery is the perfect pit stop for an afternoon tea, brunch, or lunch.
• The borough of Greenwich is another wonderful area for families. Here you can find the Royal Observatory, where you can stand on the Prime Meridian Line, and the National Maritime Museum, which offers engaging activities for kids exploring maritime history. The nearby Greenwich Park is a great space for picnics or leisurely strolls while enjoying views of the Thames.

Why US families love London's Afternoon Tea Bus Tours

American families are drawn to afternoon tea on a bus as it combines two quintessential aspects of British culture: sightseeing and traditional afternoon tea. It's an excellent introduction to British culinary customs that offers an engaging twist for kids. This unique experience not only allows families to drive past some of London's most incredible landmarks but also introduces them to a truly British tradition.

We're also popular with tourists and locals alike because we cater to diverse dietary preferences. With vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and halal options available, we make sure every family member can participate in the experience. All our tours offer memorable treats, like finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and a selection of scrumptious cakes and pastries.

Plus, the interactive nature of the tours, especially the ones designed with families in mind (such as our Peppa Pig, Paddington, PAW Patrol, and MONOPOLY afternoon tea bus tours), means you'll be involved in games and sing-alongs. It's no wonder these experiences are frequently featured in American reviews and travel blogs for families visiting London.

Speaking of reviews, here's what some of our American customers say about our tours:

"Our Sister who lives in England reserved four seats on the Tour to celebrate the Retirement of our Baby Sister Barbara, who lives in Ohio, USA. (I live in Florida, USA.) When we planned our trip to England she mentioned all she wanted is to make sure she had Double Decker Bus ride!! Well, this was more than just a RIDE!! We had a superb view of the surrounding area of London. We each were given a souvenir cup, drinks of warm or cold, sandwiches, cakes, and freshly baked scones!!!
So colorful, fun atmosphere, excellent service by the Waitresses/attendants, and very comfortable seating at our own table which was assigned on our Tickets. I would recommend this fun venue to anyone who enjoys sightseeing while eating, visiting, and having fun!!!!! - Ya Ya Sister Gathering 2019 --An Afternoon Tea Venue experience--Double Decker Bus Tour in London, England.

"This was a wonderful way to spend time with friends, eat till our heart was content (what a delicious food!) and at the same time visit the city and drive through the highlights! The bus is cute and unique and the selection of drinks is good. I was part of a group of USA tour operators who came to explore different attractions/experiences in London to offer our clients and this one is something I will definitely be recommending! A special thanks to the hosts who took such great care of us!" - Absolutely recommended.

Additional tips for your family vacation in London

To make the most of your London family vacation, consider creating a London itinerary that includes a balance of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and and leisure days.

• Parks and outdoor spaces. London’s parks, such as St. James's Park and Regent's Park, are perfect for fun family outings. Pack a lunch, or grab an afternoon tea picnic from Brigit's Bakery to enjoy in one of the city's beautiful green spaces.
• Plan for downtime. With so much to see and do, it's essential to schedule downtime. This could mean returning to your hotel for a rest or spending a leisurely afternoon at a local café or bakery.
• Explore markets. London is home to many family-friendly markets, such as Borough Market, where families can try some of the best British food for tourists. This can be a great way to introduce children to various culinary experiences and flavours.

With countless fun things for kids in London, the city is an ideal vacation spot for American families. So, what will you decide to do to create unforgettable memories during your stay in London?