There are so many things to do in London that it can be difficult to choose, especially when you are travelling with your family. This guide lists the best places to take your children, whether it's to tourist attractions, museums, theme parks or other activities suitable for young and old alike. Plan a great family getaway or bring out the child in you with these activities in the British capital. If you're going to London for a weekend, check out Wimdu's family-friendly accommodation to stay close to the city's major attractions.
Child-Friendly Museums
Children aren't always thrilled about spending time in a museum, but many museums in London have interactive exhibitions designed especially for little explorers. Most of the city's museums are also free, so it would be a shame not to take advantage of them!
British Museum
The British Museum is one of the oldest museums in the world. Its permanent collection contains more than 8 million items, covering the history and cultures of man from the earliest times to the present day.
V&A
The Victoria and Albert Museum, commonly known as the V&A, houses a collection of decorative arts and ornaments from around the world within one of the city's finest monuments.
Children's Museum
Technically part of the V&A, the Children's Museum has earned an unrivalled reputation as one of the best free activities in London. Its collection of toys spanning several centuries makes it an ideal excursion for children while playing on the nostalgic side of adults.
Natural History Museum
This museum is always a hit with children, especially thanks to "Dippy", a 32-metre long replica of a Diplodocus skeleton that has amazed generations of children since it was unveiled in 1905. The museum's collection of biological samples can also be used to awaken them to the diversity of the natural world.
Science Museum
By focusing on practice, this London museum puts science within everyone's reach. Check the museum's calendar to make sure you don't miss any of the exciting events that take place regularly, including 'Science Night', where children can take part in a range of activities before spending the night in the middle of the exhibitions.
Imperial War Museum
This museum, which is aimed at a wide audience, houses a collection of military artefacts ranging from the First World War to vehicles used by British forces in the modern Middle East countryside. The smaller visitors are often amazed by the planes, tanks and war vehicles on display, while the larger ones will be touched by the true stories of the people affected by the war. This is a good way to raise awareness in an interactive and playful way. Admission is free!
Barbican
The Barbican is London's premier arts centre. It is home to the London Symphony Orchestra, the BBC Symphony Orchestra and the Royal Shakespeare Company. The Barbican also houses an art gallery with regularly changing exhibitions and a public library with a fantastic collection.
London Museum
This museum traces the history of the capital of Great Britain from prehistoric times to the 20th century, including reconstructions of street scenes and authentic period objects. Regular exhibitions focus on a particular aspect of London and the calendar is packed with special events.
Horniman Museum
This eclectic collection of anthropological curiosities was assembled by Frederick Horniman, the son of an important businessman who had a lot of capital to play with. The museum houses a fascinating natural history exhibition and a collection of musical instruments from around the world.
London Museum of Transport
At first glance, one might think that a museum dedicated to buses, trains and all forms of public transport is not the most exciting thing for a day trip. However, thanks to interactive exhibitions and exemplary organisation, the London Transport Museum is able to bring the history of the city's development to the forefront in a formidable way on an aspect that has concerned billions of people over the years.