Family Things To Do In London
So, there I was, standing in the middle of Trafalgar Square, my two nephews tugging at my sleeves, their eyes wide with excitement. "Auntie, can we see the lions? Can we feed the pigeons?" I chuckled, "Not today, kids. But how about we explore some family-friendly spots in London that you'll absolutely love?" And that's how our family adventure began. If you're planning a trip to London with your loved ones, here are some fantastic things to do that will make your visit truly unforgettable.
Buckle Up for a Thrilling Ride at the London Eye
First things first, you can't visit London without experiencing the iconic London Eye. This giant Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views of the city, and it's a fun experience for all ages. My nephews were a bit nervous at first, but once we started moving, they were glued to the window, pointing out famous landmarks like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
Side note: If you're planning to visit several attractions, consider getting a Merlin Pass. It's a great way to save money and skip the queues.
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Step Back in Time at the Tower of London
Next up, we headed to the Tower of London. Now, I know what you're thinking, "Aren't they going to be bored?" Let me tell you, there's so much to see and do here that they didn't even notice the time flying by. From exploring the royal armory to meeting the Yeoman Warders (or Beefeaters, as they're more commonly known), it's like stepping back in time.
And the best part? The Crown Jewels exhibition. My nephews were fascinated by the sparkling crowns and jewels, and I must admit, so was I. Just remember to keep your voices down and your phones away – the guards take their job very seriously!
Meet the Animals at the London Zoo
No family trip to London would be complete without a visit to the world-famous London Zoo. With over 600 species of animals, there's something for everyone. My nephews' favorite? The giraffes, of course. They were in awe watching these gentle giants munch on leaves from the safety of the viewing platform.
Pro tip: If you're planning to visit on a weekend, arrive early to beat the crowds. And don't miss the animal feeding times – it's a great way to learn more about the animals and see them in action.
Explore the Magical World of Harry Potter
Now, I couldn't write this article without mentioning the magical world of Harry Potter. If your kids are fans (and let's face it, who isn't?), then you absolutely must visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. It's a bit of a trek from central London, but trust me, it's worth it.
From walking down Diagon Alley to seeing the actual props and costumes used in the films, it's a truly enchanting experience. Just be prepared for the crowds – it's a popular attraction, so book your tickets in advance.
Picnic in the Park at Hyde Park
After all that excitement, it's nice to take a break and enjoy a peaceful picnic in Hyde Park. Grab some sandwiches from a local deli, spread out a blanket, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. If you're feeling energetic, you could even rent a pedalo and take a spin on the Serpentine Lake.
Side note: If you're visiting in the summer, keep an eye out for the British Summer Time festival. It's a fantastic series of concerts and events held in Hyde Park.
Indulge in a Traditional Afternoon Tea
No trip to London would be complete without indulging in a traditional afternoon tea. There are countless places to choose from, but for a truly magical experience, I recommend the Story of Afternoon Tea experience at the Park Tower Hotel.
Not only do you get to enjoy a delicious selection of sandwiches, scones, and pastries, but you also learn about the fascinating history of afternoon tea. It's the perfect way to end your family adventure in London.
And there you have it, folks! From thrilling rides to magical encounters, there's no shortage of family-friendly things to do in London. So, grab your loved ones, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. Just remember to keep your eyes peeled for those mischievous pigeons – they've got a habit of snatching snacks right out of your hands!