London is one of the most expensive cities in the world, so spending time out as a family could end up being quite pricey.
Here are my suggestions of things to do in London with kids, there are plenty of inexpensive or cheap things to do in the capital that are perfect for families.
LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM
The London transport museum is in a very central location, Covent Garden, which makes it perfect to have a day out in London. Children and young people under 18 go free, adult tickets are £16 (£13.50 for concessions) and they are valid for a whole year. This makes the museum very good value as you can make the most of the ticket and visit on a regular basis.
The LTM is very interactive and gives the children, and adults of course, the chances to drive a double decker bus, a tube train or hop on an old bus.
There is a cafe selling hot and cold food but there is also a picnic area, so if you are on a budget you can take your own food, and eat it there. The gift shop is divine and full of super cute items!!
I know Covent Garden is a really busy area so might not be ideal if you have young children on pushchairs, but if you are brave or your kids are a bit older, you can watch the performers on the Piazza once you have visited the museum.
STRATFORD OLYMPIC PLAYGROUND
Stratford has benefited a lot from the Olympics. The area has been totally transformed and one of the many things left for people to enjoy is the Tumbling Bay Playground. The playground features, huge sand pits, rock pools, wooden tree houses and wobbly bridges. I suggest you take a change of clothes for your children as they can get very messy and wet.
The playground gets really busy but there is plenty of space for the kids to run around.
There is a café next to it, so parents can sit down and have food and drinks while they watch the children play.
You can also photograph yourself next to the Olympic rings and enjoy the views of all the Olympic venues around.
MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD
The museum of childhood is a bit of a hidden gem in East London, part of the V&A, it has a huge collection of children’s toys from the 19th century up to the present day. The museum is free but admission charges apply to some especial exhibitions. The museum is situated a short walk from Bethnal Green tube station
TRIP ON THE DLR
Is there anything more exciting than a driverless train? A trip on the DLR is always a hit with children, just make sure you sit at the front and enjoy the ride! You can use your oyster card and it’s an inexpensive way to travel in London
NATIONAL HISTORY MUSEUM
Another free museum in London and probably the best known one. It is situated about 10 minutes’ walk from South Kensington Station.
The NHM has anything from fossils to reptiles but they are probably most famous for their dinosaur room with a huge Trex.
They do have a child friendly café but it gets very busy.
BATTERSEA CHILDREN’S ZOO
Not as big as London Zoo, but with plenty of small animals for the kids to see. It is also cheaper, under 2’s go free, children tickets are £6.95, adults £8.95 and Family tickets are £29.
There is a café that sells hot & cold food and also a picnic area should you want to take your own. The Zoo is in the middle of Battersea Park, so it is perfect to enjoy a day out.
JUBILEE GARDENS PLAYGROUND
Jubilee Gardens playground is directly opposite the London Eye, it is perfect spot to spend an afternoon in London, parents can grab a cup of coffee whilst watching the kids play. Southbank is a really busy area but there are always street entertainers and lots of places to eat or have a drink afterwards.
GOLDEN HINDE
Sir Francis Drake Galleon is located on the Bankside, closest tube station is London Bridge. It is the perfect place to explore a Galleon and play pirates! You can go on a guided tour or visit at your own pace. Under 3’s go free, adult tickets are £6, kids £4.50 and family £18. Check their website www.goldenhinde.com for special events which they runt throughout the year.
Have you been to any of these places? Can you recommend any other things to do in London on a budget with kids? Have you done any other inexpensive days out in London?
