London’s South Bank is a hub for a wide range of exciting activities for families with kids. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 cool things to do on London’s South Bank with kids, so you can make the most of your family’s visit to this exciting part of the city. It’s an area that can get very expensive when visiting premium attractions, but we’ve also provided several budget-friendly and free activities for kids on the South Bank.
Visiting more than one attraction? By using Big City Saver you can save more than 30% by booking two or more tickets to attractions like the London Eye, Madame Tussaud, Shrek’s Adventure, Sea Life and London Dungeon. For more tips to save money when visiting London, check our post on discount tickets.
1. View the city from above
- Location: The London Eye, South Bank, London SE1 7PB
- Est. duration: 45 minutes
- Pushchairs: Must be folded inside the capsule
- Station: Waterloo
- Tickets: Book here.
The London Eye is the main draw for many families visiting the South Bank with its breathtaking view of London. The ride takes about 30 minutes to go full circle, and kids will love seeing London’s iconic landmarks from a unique perspective.
The London Eye is suitable for all ages and the capsules are spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for kids to walk around. The giant Ferris wheel spins very slowly, but the time it takes is just about perfect for an average kid’s attention span. My kids love to spot Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, and other famous sights, but they tend to get a bit bored towards the end. Babies and toddlers will enjoy looking at the colourful buildings, boats, bridges, and landmarks from above.
Older children and teenagers can learn more about the history and culture of London by using the interactive touchscreens inside the capsules. They can also take selfies and photos with the amazing backdrop of the city skyline.
In short, I think the London Eye is a wonderful attraction for families with kids of any age. Read our full review of the London Eye.
2. Check out the street performers
- Location: South Bank, London SE1 7PB
- Est. duration: 30 minutes
- Pushchairs: Allowed
- Station: Waterloo
- Tickets: Free for all (donation suggested)
One of the best free things to do with kids on the South Bank is to watch the street performers. They are so talented and entertaining, and they’re experts in making kids laugh and cheer. You can see all kinds of acts, from jugglers and magicians to acrobats and musicians. There is something for everyone, and you never know what you will find next.
The street performers create a lively and festive atmosphere, and they often invite the kids to join them on stage or to participate in their tricks. It is a great way to have fun and make memories with your family, and you can also enjoy the beautiful views of the river and the landmarks. Watching the street performers on the south bank is a must-do activity for kids who visit London, or for anyone who loves a good show.
2. Enjoy beautiful sea creatures
- Location: Sea Life London, South Bank, London SE1 7PB
- Est. duration: 2.5 hours
- Pushchairs: Allowed
- Station: Waterloo
- Tickets: Book here.
One of the best places to visit in London with kids is the Sea Life London Aquarium. It’s a wonderful way to explore the underwater world and learn about the amazing creatures that live there. You can see sharks, turtles, penguins, jellyfish, and more. There are also interactive exhibits where you can touch starfish, crabs, and anemones. My kids loved that part!
One of the highlights of the aquarium is the Ocean Tunnel, which has a moving walkway that takes visitors through a tank filled with sharks and other sea creatures.
The attraction is also educational and fun for older children and teenagers. They can learn about the conservation efforts that SEA LIFE supports and how they can help protect the oceans. They can also enjoy the 4D cinema, the glass walkway over the shark tank, and the behind-the-scenes tour. There’s something for everyone! My older son was fascinated by the shark feeding show and the coral reef exhibit. He said he learned a lot of new facts and wanted to become a marine biologist!
I highly recommend visiting SEA LIFE with your family. It’s a great way to spend a day in London and create some unforgettable memories. We had a blast and we can’t wait to go back! Read our full review of London Sea Life.
3. Hang out in the playground
- Location: Jubilee Gardens Playground, South Bank, London SE1 7PG
- Est. duration: 1 hour
- Pushchairs: Allowed
- Station: Waterloo
- Tickets: Free
If you’re looking for a fun and relaxing place to take your kids after exploring the amazing sights on the South Bank, you should check out the playground in Jubilee Gardens just opposite the London Eye. It’s just a short walk away from the main attractions, but it feels like a world of its own.
The playground is spacious and well-maintained, with a good mix of mainly wooden climbing frames for different age groups. Your little ones can enjoy the swings, slides and sandpits, while your older ones can challenge themselves on the ropes, bridges and towers.
There’s also plenty of seating for parents and carers and a lovely view of the river Thames. The playground in Jubilee Gardens is a great place to let your kids have some fun and burn off some energy between all the attractions. Read more about the best playgrounds in London.
4. Get a scare in the dungeon
- Location: London Dungeon, South Bank, London SE1 7PB
- Est. duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
- Pushchairs: Not allowed
- Station: Waterloo
- Tickets: Book here.
The London Dungeon is an immersive, interactive experience that takes visitors on a journey through London’s dark history. The attraction is not recommended for very young children or those who are easily frightened. However, older kids and teens will love the live shows, rides, and spooky atmosphere. The experience includes 360-degree sets, special effects, and actors in period costumes who bring the history of the city to life.
I went there with my two oldest kids, aged 6 and 10, and they loved it. They were scared at times but also laughed a lot, and they especially enjoyed the drop ride at the end. It is also very interactive and immersive, so they will feel like they are part of the story. They even joined in some of the scenes and talked to the actors.
Note that it can be quite loud and dark, and some scenes are very graphic and violent. You may want to skip some parts if you think your kids are too sensitive. Also, pushchairs are not allowed.
All in all, the London Dungeon is a great family attraction that will give you a memorable experience. It is not for the faint-hearted, but if you like horror and history, you will have a blast.
5. Visit Tate Modern
- Location: Tate Modern, Bankside, London SE1 9TG
- Est. duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
- Pushchairs: Allowed.
- Station: Blackfriars and London Bridge
- Tickets: Free entry.
The Tate Modern is a great place to introduce kids to modern and contemporary art. The museum has a range of exhibitions and installations that will capture the imagination of young visitors. The museum also offers free art-making activities for families on weekends and during school holidays.
Visiting Tate Modern with kids is a great way to spend a day in London. The museum has a lot of family-friendly features, such as interactive exhibits, free activities, and spacious galleries. You can explore the art collections at your own pace, or join a guided tour for some insights and fun facts.
I remember when I took my kids there for the first time, they were amazed by the huge Turbine Hall and the colourful sculptures. They especially loved the Artist Rooms, where they could see the works of different artists and learn about their styles and techniques. They also enjoyed the Tate Kids website, where they could play games and create their own artwork online.
The museum is suitable for young children and babies, as there are plenty of lifts, baby changing facilities, and a café with high chairs and kid-friendly menus. You can also borrow a pushchair or a backpack carrier for free from the cloakroom. The staff are very helpful and friendly, and they always make sure that everyone feels welcome and comfortable.
6. Meet Shrek & his friends
- Location: London Dungeon, South Bank, London SE1 7PB
- Est. duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
- Pushchairs: Allowed.
- Station: Waterloo
- Tickets: Book here.
Shrek’s Adventure is a fun and interactive experience that brings the world of Shrek and his friends to life. Kids can meet their favourite characters, go on a 4D ride, and explore the magical world of Far Far Away. The attraction is suitable for children of all ages, and there are plenty of photo opportunities throughout the experience.
My kids particularly loved the bus ride, where we flew over London and escaped from the evil Rumpelstiltskin. They also enjoyed the magic mirror maze, where we had to find our way out of the enchanted forest. And they were thrilled to see their favourite characters come to life in the different shows.
Shrek’s Adventure! is suitable for young children and babies, as there are no scary or violent scenes. The staff are very friendly and helpful, and there are plenty of facilities such as toilets, baby changing rooms and a café. The attraction is also pushchair-friendly, as there are lifts and ramps throughout.
However, if you have older children or teenagers, they might find Shrek’s Adventure! a bit boring or childish. The attraction is mainly aimed at younger kids who love the movies and the characters.
Overall, I would recommend Shrek’s Adventure! to anyone who wants to have a fun-filled day with their kids. It is a great way to experience the magic of Shrek and his friends and to create some unforgettable memories.
7. Walk the Thames Path
- Location: From London Eye to Tower Bridge
- Est. duration: 1 – 2 hours
- Pushchairs: Yes, step-free access all the way
- Stations: Waterloo, London Bridge
One of my favourite things to do in London is to walk and cycle along the Thames Path from the London Eye to Tower Bridge with my kids. It’s a great way to see some of the most iconic landmarks of the city, such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the Shard. The path is mostly flat and paved, so it’s easy to push a pram or a buggy. There are also plenty of benches, cafes, and toilets along the way, so you don’t have to worry about finding a place to rest or refresh.
The walk is about 5 km long, which might seem a bit daunting for young children, but there are so many things to see and do along the way that they won’t get bored.
My kids love to spot the different boats and bridges on the river, and they always get excited when we are so lucky to see Tower Bridge opening up to let a ship pass through.
Walking the Thames Path from the London Eye to Tower Bridge is a fun and free way to spend a day in London with your family. For more ideas, check out our post on the best family walks in London.
8. Cruise down the Thames
- Location: London Eye Pier, South Bank, London 1SW1A 1AE
- Est. duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
- Pushchairs: Allowed.
- Station: Waterloo
- Tickets: Book here.
One of the best ways to enjoy London with kids is to take a cruise on the Thames. You can see many of the city’s iconic landmarks, such as Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and the London Eye, from a different perspective. Plus, you can avoid the traffic and crowds on the streets and relax on the boat.
My family and I took a river cruise on the Thames last summer and we had a blast. We boarded at London Eye Pier and sailed all the way to Greenwich, where we visited the Royal Observatory and the Cutty Sark. The kids loved seeing the time ball drop at 1 p.m. and learning about the history of navigation and astronomy. They also enjoyed exploring the old ship and seeing how sailors lived in the past.
London river cruises are very family-friendly and suitable for all ages. We had plenty of space for our pushchair and we could easily move around the boat. The staff were very helpful and friendly, and they provided us with some interesting facts and stories about the sights along the way. The boat had a snack bar and toilets on board, which was very convenient.
The only downside was that our oldest daughter got a bit bored after a while. He said he would have preferred to do something more active and exciting, like a speedboat ride or a bike tour. But he still appreciated the views and the experience.
I would highly recommend taking a cruise on the Thames with kids if you are looking for a fun and relaxing way to see London. It’s a great activity for families who want to enjoy some quality time together and learn more about the city’s culture and history.
9. Check out the skate park
- Location: Southbank Skate Spece, South Bank, London SE1 8XT
- Station: Blackfriars and London Bridge
The South Bank skate park is a popular spot for skateboarders and BMX riders. It’s a vibrant and colourful spot where you can watch talented skaters perform amazing tricks and stunts. Note that this is not necessarily the best skate park for beginners. You need to have a certain level of skill and experience to use the ramps, and you also need to bring your own equipment. If your kids are interested in getting into skateboarding, check our post on the best skate parks in London.
10. Visit the Southbank Centre
- Location: Southbank Centre, South Bank, London SE1 8XX
- Est. duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
- Pushchairs: Allowed.
- Station: Blackfriars and London Bridge
- Tickets: Book here.
One of my favourite places to visit with my kids is the Southbank Centre in London. It’s a cultural hub that offers a variety of events and activities for all ages and interests. Whether you’re into music, art, literature, or theatre, you’ll find something to enjoy at the Southbank Centre.
The best thing about the Southbank Centre is that it’s very family-friendly. They have a dedicated family programme that features workshops, festivals, shows, and exhibitions that are designed to inspire and entertain children and adults alike. Some of the highlights include the Imagine Children’s Festival in February, the Africa Utopia Festival in September, and the Winter Festival in December. You can also check out their website for the latest events and book tickets online.
I’ve been to the Southbank Centre many times with my kids and we always have a blast. One time, we went to see a puppet show based on Roald Dahl’s stories. It was hilarious and creative and my kids loved it. Another time, we joined a storytelling session where we learned about African folktales and myths. We also like to explore the art installations and exhibitions that are scattered around the centre. They are often interactive and playful and my kids have fun discovering new things.
The Southbank Centre is suitable for young children and babies as well. They have baby-changing facilities, breastfeeding areas, and buggy parking spaces. They also have a range of activities that cater to toddlers and preschoolers, such as sensory play, music-making, and craft sessions. My youngest daughter especially enjoys the Singing With The Stars activity, where she gets to sing along with famous characters from children’s books.
The only downside of the Southbank Centre is that it can get crowded during peak times and holidays. Sometimes, you have to queue for a long time or make sure to book tickets long in advance.
Family-friendly hotels on the South Bank
The South Bank is an amazing area to stay for families who want to explore all the attractions nearby. However, it can get quite expensive, especially during peak seasons and holidays. The average price of a hotel room is around £200 per night, which is slightly higher than the London average of £150.
If you can afford it, staying at the South Bank is an amazing experience though. You will be able to enjoy the stunning views of the river and the city skyline, as well as access some of the best attractions and events in London. The south bank is also well-connected by public transport, making it easy to travel to other parts of the city.
Park Plaza County Hall London
If you are looking for a kid-friendly hotel near South Bank, you should consider the Park Plaza County Hall London Hotel. This modern and family-friendly hotel is located just a few minutes walk from the River Thames and many of London’s most famous attractions. You and your kids can enjoy the London Eye, the London Dungeon, the London Aquarium, Shrek’s Adventure, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, all within walking distance from the hotel.
Book a family room at Park Plaza County Hall
The hotel also offers a Family Getaway package, which includes accommodation, a Children’s Gift Bag, food and drink vouchers, and complimentary breakfast, lunch and dinner for children under 12. The hotel has spacious and elegant rooms and suites, some with stunning views of the London Eye or the River Thames.
You can also relax at the Atrio Restaurant & Bar, which serves contemporary Mediterranean dishes, or at the fitness centre and spa. The Park Plaza County Hall London Hotel is the perfect place to start your family adventure in the world’s greatest city.
Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London
Park Plaza Westminster Bridge offers spacious and stylish rooms and suites, some with stunning views of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. You can enjoy delicious dining options, including French cuisine at Brasserie Joël, sushi and sashimi at Ichi Sushi & Sashimi Bar, and Italian coffee at illy Caffè.
Book a family room at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge
You can also relax and unwind at the Mandara Spa, which offers a range of treatments inspired by Bali, or swim in the 15-metre indoor pool. The hotel is conveniently located opposite the Houses of Parliament and within walking distance of the London Eye, the Aquarium, the London Dungeons, and many theatres, restaurants and bars. Whether you want to explore the city’s history, culture, or entertainment, you will find something for everyone at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London.
Family events on South Bank and Bankside
There is always something going on along the South Bank and Bankside area, especially during the holidays. Here are some examples of events:
- In the summer, you can enjoy the sunshine and watch street performers, or join a free outdoor festival like the Southbank Centre Summer Festival or the Thames Festival.
- In the winter, you can experience the magic of Christmas at the Southbank Centre Winter Festival, where you can skate on the ice rink, browse the Christmas market, or see a festive show.
- Tate Modern events: Tate Modern is one of the world’s most famous contemporary art museums, where you can see works by artists like Picasso, Warhol, Dalí and more. The museum also hosts family events that include children in engaging art sessions.
- Southbank Centre events: The Southbank Centre is a huge arts complex that hosts a variety of family events throughout the year, celebrating different genres, cultures and themes. Many of them are completely free of charge.
- For Halloween, you can get spooked at the special Halloween edition of London Dungeon, where you can learn about the dark history of London and meet some scary characters.
- And for Easter, you can join the Easter Trail at Bankside and discover hidden clues and prizes along the way.
If you are looking for a fun and diverse place to visit in London, I highly recommend the South Bank and Bankside area. There is something for everyone, no matter what your age or interest. You will never run out of things to do or see in this vibrant and lively part of London.
Free things to do for kids
If you’re looking for some fun and free things to do with your family in London, look no further than the South Bank and Bankside areas. These vibrant and cultural spots have plenty of attractions and activities that won’t cost you a penny, but will create lasting memories for you and your loved ones. Here are some of our top suggestions for a great day out:
- Mudlarking on the Thames foreshore: This is a unique and exciting way to explore the history of London, by searching for treasures and artefacts that have been washed up by the river. You’ll also need some sturdy shoes, gloves and a bag to collect your finds. You can mudlark anywhere along the Thames, but some of the best spots are near the Millennium Bridge, Gabriel’s Wharf and Bankside Pier. You never know what you might discover, from pottery and coins to bones and buttons. It’s like a treasure hunt with a twist!
- Free family events at Southbank Centre: The Southbank Centre is a hub of arts and culture, and it hosts many free events throughout the year that are suitable for all ages. You can enjoy concerts, workshops, festivals, exhibitions and more, all without spending a dime. Some of the highlights include Imagine Children’s Festival in February, Africa Utopia in September, and Winter Festival in December. Check out their website for the latest programme and plan your visit accordingly.
- Cycle trip along the Thames Path: If you have your own bikes or you can rent them from one of the many docking stations in the area, you can enjoy a scenic and relaxing ride along the Thames Path. This is a network of paths and trails that follow the river from its source to the sea, passing by many landmarks and attractions along the way. You can start from anywhere you like, but some of the best sections are from Westminster Bridge to Tower Bridge, or from Battersea Park to Putney Bridge. You’ll get to see iconic sights such as Big Ben, London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London and more while enjoying the fresh air and exercise.
- Visiting Tate Modern: Tate Modern is one of the world’s most famous museums of modern and contemporary art, and it’s free to enter (except for some special exhibitions). You can admire works by artists such as Picasso, Warhol, Matisse, Dali and more, as well as discover new and emerging talents. The museum also has a stunning Turbine Hall, which hosts large-scale installations that change every year. Don’t miss the viewing platform on the 10th floor, which offers panoramic views of London.
- The Jubilee Garden playground: If your kids need to burn off some energy, take them to the Jubilee Garden playground, located next to the London Eye. This is a spacious and modern playground that has something for everyone, from swings and slides to climbing frames and sandpits. It’s open all year round and it’s suitable for children up to 11 years old. It’s also surrounded by grassy areas where you can picnic or relax.
- Street performers on South Bank: One of the best things about South Bank is the lively atmosphere created by the street performers who entertain the crowds with their skills and talents. You can see musicians, dancers, magicians, acrobats, comedians and more, all performing for free (but tips are appreciated). You can find them along the riverside walkway, near the National Theatre, or under Waterloo Bridge. They are sure to make you smile and clap along.