As a local family, here are our recommendations when it comes to the best areas to stay in London with Kids. We done extensive research to compare the average price per night in a hotel, compared to our own opinion about the area.
Travelling with little ones, it is important to find a safe and family-friendly area to stay. With so many different neighbourhoods to choose from, it can be challenging to decide where to stay in London with kids.
In this post, we will explore ten of the best areas to stay in London with kids offering good value and easy access to attractions. Whether you are looking for historic landmarks, green spaces, or family-friendly accommodations, we have got you covered. Read on to discover the top areas to stay in London with your family.
Best Value* Areas to Stay in London with Kids
If you’re planning a family trip to London, you might be wondering where to stay with your kids. London is a huge and diverse city, with plenty of attractions, activities and experiences for all ages. But finding a reasonably priced hotel in a safe area close to the attractions can be tricky. Based on the average price per night, proximity to attractions and safety levels, this is our top list:
*Our research (updated September 2023) is based on the average price per hotel night for a family of four (two adults and two children in a family room). These statistics are based on a wide range of sources including Booking.com, Expedia, Kayak, Priceline, Hotels.com and Trivago.
- Bayswater: £140-£400
- City of London: £140-£400
- Greenwich: £160-£400
- South Bank: £200-£500
- Trafalgar Square: £240-£500
- Canary Wharf: £240-£500
- West End: £260-£600
- Westminster: £300-£600
- Kensington: £300-£700
- Mayfair: £600-£1200
1. Bayswater
- 💷Price/night: £140-£400
- ✈️Airports: Heathrow (45-60 min.), Gatwick (75-90 min)
- 🚆Train stations: Paddington
- 💂♂️Highlights: Hyde Park, Kensington Palace, Oxford Street
Pros:
- Close to attractions like Hyde Park, Kensington Palace, Notting Hill and Portobello Road Market
- Variety of accommodation options, from budget to luxury
- Diverse and vibrant community, with many restaurants, cafes, pubs and shops
Cons:
- Noisy and crowded, especially during peak hours and weekends
- Not very well connected to other parts of London by public transport
- Not very representative of London as a whole
City of London
💷Price/night: £70-£180
✈️Airports: London City Airport (15-30 min.), Heathrow (60-75 min.), Stansted (60-90 min.)
🚆Train stations: St Pancras, Kings Cross, Liverpool Street, Fenchurch Street
💂♂️Highlights: St. Paul’s Cathedral, Barbican, Monument, Tower of London
The City of London is the historic and financial centre of London, and it offers a unique blend of old and new. It is home to iconic landmarks such as St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London, as well as modern attractions such as the Museum of London and the Barbican Centre. The area also has several parks, such as Postman’s Park and Finsbury Circus, which are great for a family picnic.
London is a fantastic destination for family holidays. With its rich cultural heritage, world-class attractions, and vibrant atmosphere, the city offers something for everyone. However, when travelling with children, choosing the right accommodation is crucial to ensure a safe and comfortable stay. Here are 10 safe and family-friendly areas to stay in London with kids.
It’s important to note that these are average prices and can vary depending on the time of year, demand, and other factors. Additionally, some hotels may have different policies for children’s rates or extra bed charges, so it’s always a good idea to check with the hotel directly or read the fine print before booking.
Kensington & Knightsbridge
💷Price/night: £150-£350
✈️Airports: Heathrow (30-45 min.), Gatwick (60-90 min.)
🚆Train stations: Paddington, Victoria
💂♂️Highlights: Harrods, Natural History Museum, Science Museum, V&A Museum
Kensington is one of the most exclusive neighbourhoods in London, and it is also a great place to stay with kids. It is home to several world-class museums, including the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum, all of which offer interactive exhibits that will keep children entertained for hours. The area also has plenty of green spaces, such as Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, which are perfect for picnics and playtime.
Hotels: Kensington has plenty of options for families. The Royal Garden Hotel is a popular choice, as it offers family rooms, an indoor pool, and a babysitting service. The Kensington Hotel is another excellent option, with its spacious suites and convenient location close to the museums.
More things to do in Kensington.
South Bank
💷Price/night: £100-£250
✈️Airports: Heathrow (60-75 min.), Gatwick (60-90 min.)
🚆Train stations: Waterloo, Southwark, Blackfriars
💂♂️Highlights: London Eye, London Dungeon, Seal Life London, River Cruises
The South Bank is a vibrant area that stretches along the Thames River, from the London Eye to the Tate Modern. It is a great place to stay with kids, as it offers easy access to some of the city’s top attractions, including the SEA LIFE London Aquarium and the Shrek’s Adventure! London. The South Bank also has several parks, such as Jubilee Gardens and Bernie Spain Gardens, which are ideal for a family picnic.
Hotels: Accommodation options on the South Bank include the Park Plaza County Hall, which offers family rooms and a children’s menu at its restaurant. The Novotel London City South is another popular choice, with its family-friendly amenities, such as a play area and a welcome gift for kids.
More things to do in South Bank.
West End
💷Price/night: £130-£300
✈️Airports: Heathrow, Heathrow (45-60 min), Gatwick (60-90 min)
🚆Train stations: Charing Cross, Waterloo
💂♂️Highlights: Musicals, Theatres, Covent Garden, London Transport Museum
The West End is the entertainment hub of London, with its world-famous theatres and lively atmosphere. It is also a great place to stay with kids, as it offers easy access to attractions such as the British Museum, the London Transport Museum, and the Covent Garden Market. The West End also has plenty of family-friendly restaurants and cafes.
Hotels: West End has a variety of hotel options for families. The Radisson Blu Edwardian Mercer Street Hotel offers family rooms and a children’s menu at its restaurant. The Covent Garden Hotel is another excellent choice, with its spacious family suites and central location.
More things to do in West End.
Trafalgar Square
💷Price/night: £120-£250
✈️Airports: Heathrow (60-75 min.), Gatwick (75-90 min)
🚆Train stations: Charing Cross
💂♂️Highlights: Buckingham Palace, London Eye, National Gallery
Trafalgar Square is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and a popular tourist destination. It is also a great place to stay with kids, as it offers easy access to attractions such as the National Gallery, the London Eye, and Buckingham Palace. The square itself is also a great place for children to run around and enjoy the fountains and street performers.
Hotels: Options near Trafalgar Square include the Strand Palace Hotel, which offers family rooms and a children’s menu at its restaurant. The Citadines Trafalgar Square London is another good choice, with its spacious apartments and convenient location.
More things to do near Trafalgar Square.
Mayfair
💷Price/night: £300-£600
✈️Airports: Heathrow, Gatwick
🚆Train stations: Victoria, Charing Cross, Waterloo
💂♂️Highlights: Hyde Park, Royal Academy of Arts, Burlington Arcade
Mayfair is one of London’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, known for its luxury boutiques, art galleries, and fine dining restaurants. However, it is also a great place to stay with kids, as it offers easy access to attractions such as Buckingham Palace, Green Park, and Hyde Park. Mayfair also has plenty of family-friendly restaurants and cafes.
Hotels: Accommodation options in Mayfair include the Chesterfield Mayfair Hotel, which offers family rooms and a children’s menu at its restaurant. The Ritz London is another excellent choice, with its spacious suites and legendary afternoon tea.
More things to do in Mayfair.
Hotels: Accommodation options in the City of London include the Apex City of London Hotel, which offers family rooms and a children’s menu at its restaurant. The citizenM London Shoreditch Hotel is another popular choice, with its family-friendly amenities, such as a play area and free movies.
More things to do in the City of London.
Westminster
💷Price/night: £150-£300
✈️Airports: Heathrow (45-60 min.), Gatwick (60-90 min.)
🚆Train stations: Victoria, Waterloo, Charing Cross
💂♂️Highlights: Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace
Westminster is one of London’s most iconic neighbourhoods, known for its royal landmarks and political institutions. It is home to attractions such as the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace, as well as green spaces such as St. James’s Park and Green Park.
Hotels: Options in Westminster include the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel London – Westminster, which offers family rooms and a children’s menu at its restaurant. The Conrad London St. James is another excellent choice, with its spacious suites and convenient location.
More things to do in Westminster.
Canary Wharf
💷Price/night: £120-£250
✈️Airports: London City Airport (15-30 min.), Heathrow (75-90 min.), Gatwick (75-90 min)
🚆Train stations: Canary Wharf, Stratford International
💂♂️Highlights: London Docklands Museum, Royal Greenwich, O2 Arena
Canary Wharf is London’s business and financial district, located in the east of the city. It is also a great place to stay with kids, as it offers easy access to attractions such as the Museum of London Docklands and the Emirates Air Line cable car. The area also has several parks, such as Mudchute Park and Farm and Millwall Park, which are ideal for a family day out
Hotels: Accommodation options in Canary Wharf include the Novotel London Canary Wharf, which offers family rooms and a children’s menu at its restaurant. The Radisson Blu Edwardian New Providence Wharf Hotel is another good choice, with its spacious rooms and views of the Thames River.
More things to do in Canary Wharf.
Greenwich
💷Price/night: £80-£200
✈️Airports: London City Airport (15-30 min), Gatwick (75-90 min), Heathrow (75-90 min.)
🚆Train stations: London Bridge, Waterloo, Charing Cross
💂♂️Highlights: National Maritime Museum, Royal Observatory, Cutty Sark
Greenwich is a charming neighbourhood located in the southeast of London, known for its maritime heritage and stunning views of the city. It is home to attractions such as the Royal Observatory, the National Maritime Museum, and the Cutty Sark ship. The area also has several parks, such as Greenwich Park and Mudchute Park and Farm, which are great for a family picnic.
Hotels: Accommodation options in Greenwich include the De Vere Devonport House Hotel, which offers family rooms and a children’s menu at its restaurant. The InterContinental London – The O2 is another excellent choice, with its spacious rooms and proximity to the O2 Arena.
More things to do in Greenwich.
Best areas in central London to stay on a budget
London is an incredible city, full of history, culture, and excitement. However, it’s no secret that it can be an expensive place to visit. Fortunately, there are some areas of London that offer affordable accommodation without sacrificing location or amenities. Here are two budget-friendly areas of London to stay on vacation: Greenwich and Bayswater.
Greenwich
Greenwich is a beautiful historic area located in southeast London, famous for its maritime history and stunning architecture. It’s a great choice for budget-conscious travellers who still want to be close to the city’s main attractions.
Accommodation in Greenwich ranges from cosy bed and breakfasts to budget-friendly hotels, with plenty of options for families and solo travellers alike. Some popular options include the Travelodge London Greenwich, Ibis London Greenwich, and the Premier Inn London Greenwich.
In addition to its rich history and picturesque scenery, Greenwich offers plenty of things to see and do that won’t break the bank. The Royal Observatory and National Maritime Museum offer free admission, while the Greenwich Market is a great place to find affordable souvenirs and delicious street food. Going into central London is really easy by hopping on the Thames Clippers catamaran river taxi.
Bayswater
Bayswater is a bustling area located in central London, just north of Hyde Park. Known for its beautiful tree-lined streets and proximity to many of London’s top attractions, it’s a great option for budget-conscious travellers who want to be close to the action.
Accommodation in Bayswater is varied, with a mix of budget-friendly hotels and serviced apartments. Some popular options include the Hyde Park Suites, Grand Royale London Hyde Park, and the Royal Hyde Park Hotel.
Bayswater offers plenty of opportunities for budget-friendly entertainment, from strolling through the beautiful Kensington Gardens to browsing the shops along Queensway. The neighbourhood is also home to many affordable restaurants and pubs, making it easy to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank.