As an experienced traveler and a parent, I can confidently say that London is one of the most family-friendly destinations in the world. With its rich history, iconic landmarks, and diverse culture, London offers a plethora of activities that are both fun and educational for toddlers. In this article, I will share with you the top 8 things to do in London with toddlers that are sure to create lasting memories for you and your little ones.

Table of Contents

• 1. Visiting the London Zoo
• 2. Exploring the Natural History Museum
• 3. Discovering the Science Museum
• 4. Taking a ride on the London Eye
• 5. Enjoying a picnic in Hyde Park
• 6. Seeing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
• 7. Riding on a double-decker bus tour
• 8. Taking a boat ride on the Thames River
• Tips for traveling to London with toddlers
• Conclusion and final thoughts

1. Visiting the London Zoo

The London Zoo is an excellent place to take your toddlers if they love animals. Located in Regent’s Park, the zoo is home to over 19,000 animals from all over the world, including tigers, giraffes, penguins, and monkeys. Toddlers will enjoy seeing the animals up close and personal, and they can even participate in interactive exhibits like the Butterfly Paradise and the Animal Adventure.

Aside from the animal exhibits, the zoo also offers a playground and a splash pad for kids to enjoy. Make sure to bring sunscreen, hats, and water bottles as the sun can get intense during the summer months.

2. Exploring the Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is another must-visit destination for families with toddlers. The museum is home to over 80 million specimens, including fossils, skeletons, and taxidermy animals. Toddlers will love the life-size models of dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures.

The museum also offers interactive exhibits like the Earthquake Room, where kids can experience what it’s like to be in an earthquake, and the Investigate Center, where kids can touch and examine specimens up close. Best of all, the museum is free to enter, although some exhibits may require a small fee.

3. Discovering the Science Museum

The Science Museum is an excellent place to take your toddlers if they love to learn and explore. The museum’s interactive exhibits are designed to engage young minds and make learning fun. Toddlers will love the hands-on exhibits like the Launch Pad, where they can experiment with light, sound, and electricity.

The museum also has a dedicated section for kids under five called the Pattern Pod, where toddlers can play with patterns and shapes. The museum is free to enter, but some exhibits may require a fee.

4. Taking a ride on the London Eye

The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel located on the South Bank of the River Thames. It offers stunning views of London’s skyline and is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Toddlers will love the ride, and it’s a great way to keep them entertained while you take in the views.

Tickets can be purchased online in advance, and you can even book a private capsule for your family. The ride lasts about 30 minutes, and there are audio guides available to provide information about the landmarks you can see from the top.

5. Enjoying a picnic in Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of London’s most beautiful parks and is an excellent place to take your toddlers for a picnic. The park has plenty of open spaces for kids to run around and play, and there are several playgrounds and water features to keep them entertained.

Make sure to bring a blanket, some snacks, and a frisbee or ball for your toddlers to play with. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rent a rowboat on the Serpentine Lake.

6. Seeing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting London, and it’s a great way to introduce your toddlers to British culture. The ceremony takes place every day at 11 am from April to July and on alternate days during the rest of the year.

Toddlers will love watching the soldiers in their red coats and black bearskin hats as they march in formation. Make sure to arrive early to get a good spot, and be prepared for crowds.

7. Riding on a double-decker bus tour

A double-decker bus tour is a great way to see the sights of London while keeping your toddlers entertained. The tour takes you to all the major landmarks, and you can hop on and off as many times as you like. Toddlers will love sitting on the top deck and watching the city go by.

Make sure to bring snacks and drinks for your toddlers, and be prepared for traffic and crowds. You can purchase tickets online in advance or at the bus stops.

8. Taking a boat ride on the Thames River

A boat ride on the Thames River is a unique way to see London’s landmarks and is sure to be a hit with toddlers. There are several options available, including sightseeing cruises and river buses. Toddlers will love the gentle motion of the boat and the chance to see the city from a different perspective.

Make sure to bring sunscreen and hats, as the sun can be intense on the river. You can purchase tickets online in advance or at the pier.

Tips for traveling to London with toddlers

Traveling to London with toddlers can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging. Here are some tips to help make your trip a success:

• Pack light and bring a stroller. London’s streets can be crowded, and a stroller will make it easier to get around.
• Bring snacks, drinks, and entertainment for your toddlers. Long lines and waiting times can be difficult for young children.
• Take advantage of public transportation. London has an extensive network of buses and trains that are easy to use and stroller-friendly.
• Plan your itinerary in advance and make sure to schedule plenty of breaks and downtime for your toddlers.
• Be prepared for the weather. London can be rainy and chilly, even in the summer months. Bring rain gear and warm clothing.

Conclusion and final thoughts

London is an excellent destination for families with toddlers, and there are plenty of fun and educational activities to keep everyone entertained. From the London Zoo to the Natural History Museum, there’s something for every interest and age group.

Remember to plan your itinerary in advance, pack light, and be prepared for the weather. With a little bit of preparation, your trip to London with your toddlers is sure to be a success.