Central London is the beating heart of the capital, with world-famous historical attractions next to modern superstructures. In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of the best brilliant spots in Central London that are perfect for families with kids. So pack your bags and get ready to discover some of the most exciting and memorable experiences that this magnificent city has to offer.
Central London Areas:
We’ve rounded up the best things to do around Westminster and the City of London for families. The historical centre of London is like a theme park with famous landmarks and attractions everywhere. But not all the attractions are very child-friendly. It can be an exhausting experience to take young kids around the busy streets of London. So it’s nice to plan for a mix of activities such as combining museum visits and exploring one of London’s many parks and playgrounds.
1. Westminster
Great for kids: Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace
If you’re planning a family trip to Central London, you’ll definitely want to add Westminster to your itinerary. This part of the city is packed with fascinating historical sites and cultural attractions that are perfect for kids of all ages.
One of the must-see sights in Westminster is the Houses of Parliament. This iconic building is home to the UK government and offers guided tours that provide a behind-the-scenes look at how the country is run. Plus, the grand architecture and famous clock tower (commonly known as Big Ben) are sure to impress kids and adults alike.
Another must-visit attraction is Westminster Abbey. This beautiful church has played a significant role in British history, hosting coronations and royal weddings for centuries. Audio tours are available that can help kids learn about Abbey’s rich history, architecture and famous figures buried there.
If you’re looking for something a bit more interactive, the Churchill War Rooms are a great option. This underground bunker was used as a command centre during WWII and offers an immersive look at what life was like during the war. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and hands-on displays.
Great for kids: Sky Garden, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London
The Tower of London is on most families’ bucket lists when visiting London. This impressive fortress has a rich history spanning over 900 years and offers guided tours that are sure to keep kids entertained. You can see the famous Crown Jewels, explore the medieval castle and even meet the resident ravens.
Another popular attraction is the Museum of London. This museum provides a fascinating look at the city’s history, from prehistoric times to the present day. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, and there are plenty of hands-on activities to keep them engaged.
For a bit of fresh air, head to St. Paul’s Cathedral and climb the famous dome. The climb is a bit steep, but the views of the city from the top are breathtaking. Plus, the cathedral itself is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and is a must-see for anyone visiting London.
One more family-friendly attraction that shouldn’t be missed in the City of London is the Sky Garden. This stunning indoor garden is located at the top of the “Walkie Talkie” building and offers amazing views of the city skyline. Kids will love exploring the gardens, which feature a variety of tropical plants and a winding path that leads to a viewing platform.
3. Covent Garden & West End
Great for kids: Street performances, London Transport Museum, West End shows
A family-friendly attraction that shouldn’t be missed in the West End and Covent Garden is the street performances. Both areas are famous for their talented street performers, who put on shows that are sure to entertain both kids and adults.
In Covent Garden, you can often find musicians, magicians, and acrobats performing in the piazza throughout the day. It’s a great spot to stop and watch a show while enjoying a snack from one of the nearby cafes.
Another must-see attraction in Central London is the London Transport Museum. This interactive museum provides a fascinating look at the history of transportation in London, from horse-drawn carriages to the modern Tube. Kids can climb aboard vintage buses and trains, and there are plenty of hands-on exhibits to keep them entertained.
4. South Bank
Great for kids: London Eye, London Dungeon, SeaLife
One of the top things to do on the South Bank is the London Eye. This giant ferris wheel offers amazing views of the city skyline, and it’s a great way to see some of the top landmarks in London. Kids will love the experience of riding on the Eye, and there are plenty of photo opportunities to capture the memories.
Another must-see attraction is the SEA LIFE London Aquarium. This impressive aquarium is home to over 600 species of sea creatures, including sharks, penguins, and jellyfish. Kids can learn about the ocean and its inhabitants through interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences.
For something a little more cultural, the Southbank Centre is home to a variety of arts and entertainment venues. From theatre and dance performances to art exhibitions and workshops, there’s always something going on at the Southbank Centre.
5. Mayfair
Great for kids: Royal Academy of Arts, Hamleys, Handel & Hendrix Museum
One of the top attractions in Mayfair is the Handel & Hendrix Museum. This unique museum is home to the former residences of two musical icons – George Frideric Handel and Jimi Hendrix. Kids can learn about the lives and legacies of these two musicians through interactive exhibits and special events.
Another must-visit attraction is the famous Hamleys toy store. This multi-level store is a paradise for kids (and adults!) who love toys and games. From classic board games to the latest gadgets, there’s something for everyone at Hamleys.
For a little bit of outdoor fun, head to Green Park. This expansive park is a great spot for a picnic or a game of frisbee, and it’s located right in the heart of Mayfair. Kids can also spot some of the resident wildlife, such as squirrels and ducks.
And of course, no visit to Mayfair would be complete without a visit to Fortnum & Mason. This iconic department store is a true London institution, and it’s full of treats and souvenirs that the whole family will love. Don’t miss the famous tea and biscuits, which make for a great gift to take back home.
6. Trafalgar Square
Great for kids: National Gallery, Nelson’s Column, Street Performers
One of the top things to do with kids in Trafalgar Square is to visit the National Gallery. This world-renowned art museum is home to a vast collection of paintings and sculptures from some of the most famous artists in history. Kids can learn about art and history through interactive exhibits and workshops.
Another must-see attraction is the famous Nelson’s Column. This towering monument honours Admiral Horatio Nelson, who played a key role in the Battle of Trafalgar. Kids will love looking up at the impressive statue and learning about its history.
For something a little different, check out the Fourth Plinth. This empty plinth was originally intended to hold a statue, but it’s now home to a rotating series of contemporary art installations. It’s a great way to introduce kids to modern art and spark their creativity.
And of course, no visit to Trafalgar Square would be complete without watching the street performers. From musicians and dancers to magicians and living statues, there’s always something entertaining happening in the square.
How child-friendly is Central London?
London is one of the most child-friendly capitals of the world because of the abundance of parks and gardens in combination with a fantastic selection of museums and attractions. It is exciting for kids to visit all the different landmarks and experience the unique ways of transportation like the red double-decker buses and black cabs. It’s also very educational since London has been at the centre of many historical events through the centuries.
Why visit Central London with kids?
Many families visiting Central London for the first time keep to the central part of London to cover the main attractions. And there is nothing wrong with that! Who wouldn’t want to see famous landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London and the Houses of Parliament? Keep in mind that the prominent museums in Central London are free of charge (donation suggested) and attract millions of people annually.
You might think that the busy streets of a global megacity like London will be too exhaustive for young kids. London’s streets are indeed congested, but because of the medieval street plan, the roads are narrow, and the traffic is slow. So you’re not looking at crossing massive highways while in the city.
We highly recommend planning what you want to see in advance while avoiding the busiest times of the day if you are going with small children. For example, the British Museum is so enormous that it’s impossible to cover everything in a day, even for the biggest museum buffs. Look for our tips regarding the most child-friendly exhibitions for each museum.
What’s the definition of Central London?
Historically, Central London includes the two areas of Westminster and the City of London. Because London has expanded over the years, parts of other boroughs are now also considered part of Central London. A good example is the South Bank, which is part of the Borough of Southwark in South East London but is also considered one of the prime spots for sightseeing in Central London.