Top 10 London Museums You Can't Miss (Free & Paid)

Visiting London with kids in tow? You’re in luck – this city is packed with amazing museums that are as fun as they are educational. Better yet, many of them are free to enter, meaning you can museum-hop without breaking the bank. Below I’ve rounded up my top 10 must-see London museums (a mix of free and paid) that are perfect for families. Each one offers something unique – from roaring dinosaurs to double-decker buses – so there’s truly something for every age and interest. Grab your Oyster card and let’s dive into London’s museum scene!

British Museum

The grand Greek Revival façade of the British Museum welcomes millions of visitors each year.

Why It’s Great for Families: The British Museum is like a time-travel treasure hunt. Its vast galleries are filled with historic artifacts from around the globe, so kids can voyage from Ancient Egypt to medieval Europe in one afternoon. Youngsters are often wowed by the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and colossal statues (the Easter Island moai is a hit!). The scale of the collection means there’s always something new to discover, and many exhibits have child-friendly info panels or even free activity trails to spark curiosity. Don’t miss the light-filled Great Court – a perfect spot to rest while kids marvel at the beautiful glass ceiling.

Hours & Tickets: Open daily 10:00–17:00, with extended evening hours on Fridays until 20:30. Admission is free for the permanent collections (you still need to reserve a free ticket online). Special exhibitions do charge a fee, but you can choose to skip those if you’re on a budget.

Family Highlights: The British Museum offers free activity backpacks and gallery trails for kids on weekends and holidays (ask at the Families Desk). There are also pop-up talks and hands-on artifact handling sessions that older kids (and parents!) will enjoy. If you have a little techie, check out the Samsung Digital Discovery Centre where kids can use digital guides and interactive apps to explore the collection in a fun way (this runs on weekends).

Getting There: The museum is centrally located in Bloomsbury. Nearest Tube stations include Holborn, Tottenham Court Road, Russell Square, and Goodge Street – all about a 5–10 minute walk. Several bus routes (like the 14, 19, 30) stop nearby; in fact, bus #14 drops you right at the door. The museum is wheelchair and stroller accessible (there are lifts to all floors).

Amenities: You’ll find baby changing facilities and the museum is stroller-friendly, though it can get crowded. Hungry? The British Museum has multiple cafes and even a restaurant in the gorgeous Great Court – handy for a mid-visit snack. (They do a lovely afternoon tea if you fancy a treat.) For souvenirs, the Great Court Shop is excellent, selling everything from replica Rosetta Stone tablets to adorable Egyptian cat plushies. We let our kids choose a postcard or small trinket as a memento of their visit.

Nearby Eats: If you want to venture out for food, you’re a short walk from Covent Garden and Soho, which are filled with family-friendly restaurants. Around the museum itself, there are casual options – e.g. a Pizza Express and Leon on nearby streets – and plenty of cafés. One of our favorites is to grab sandwiches from Pret A Manger on New Oxford Street and have an impromptu picnic in leafy Russell Square (weather permitting).

2025 Special Events: The British Museum always has fascinating temporary exhibitions. As of mid-2025, two standout exhibitions are “Feminine Power: the Divine to the Demonic” (exploring female figures in myth, running until August 2025) and “Islanders: the Art of Life in Oceania” (a vibrant exhibit of Pacific artifacts, running into 2026). These might appeal more to teens and adults, but it’s good to know in case you want to plan a repeat visit. And on Fridays the museum hosts late openings – a quieter time to wander the halls in the evening ambiance (teens might find it cool to visit at night).

Natural History Museum

Inside the Natural History Museum’s Hintze Hall – a cathedral to nature, complete with towering arches and a certain famous dinosaur in residence.

Why It’s Great for Families: Dinosaurs, volcanoes, whales – oh my! The Natural History Museum (NHM) is every kid’s dream. The moment you step into Hintze Hall and see the gigantic blue whale skeleton (“Hope”) suspended from the ceiling, you’ll hear an audible “whoa!” from your kids. This museum is all about the wonders of the natural world, presented in an interactive, engaging way. There’s an entire hall of dinosaurs, including an animatronic T. rex that roars and might startle you (in a fun way!). Kids can experience an earthquake simulator – a shaking “store” that shows what a quake feels like – and touch real meteorites from outer space. The collection ranges from sparkling gemstones to an exhibit of creepy crawlies; whatever your child’s current obsession (animals, space, fossils), they’ll likely find it here.

Hours & Tickets: Open daily 10:00–17:50 (last entry 17:30) and closed only Dec 24–26. General admission is free – one of the best deals in London! Like most major museums, you can (and should) book a free timeslot ticket online in advance to guarantee entry, especially during school holidays. Note that certain special exhibitions inside (e.g. the Butterfly House in summer or certain temporary exhibits) have an extra charge.

Family Highlights: Where to begin? Here are some must-do’s with kids at NHM:

Dinosaurs Gallery: Meet the famous Diplodocus skeleton (“Dippy”) – though note Dippy sometimes goes on tour and has been replaced by other dino stars. The life-size moving T. rex is a crowd-pleaser (or fear-inducer for the very little ones). There are interactive kiosks where kids can try to “feed” a virtual dinosaur or dig for fossil clues.
Earth Hall & Volcanoes: Gaze up at a glowing orb representing planet Earth, then ride an escalator through the center of the planet. Don’t miss the Volcano and Earthquake exhibit – the ground will literally shake beneath your feet in the quake simulator modeled after a real 1995 Japanese supermarket quake. Our kids kept begging to do this twice.
Mammals & Blue Whale: In the mammals wing you’ll stand under a life-sized model of a blue whale. It’s hard to convey how big these creatures are until you’re right underneath one. My kiddos were astonished (and promptly decided they want a pet whale).
Investigate Science Centre: Tucked in the basement (near the Darwin Centre), this hands-on science lab is just for kids. They can use microscopes, handle real specimens like shark jaws and seed pods, and play scientist. It’s open daily for drop-in sessions – perfect for curious minds to touch and explore.
Outdoor Wildlife Garden: If they need a breath of fresh air, there’s a lovely garden outside showcasing native plants and ponds – sometimes you’ll spot real butterflies and birds.

One pro tip: the side entrance on Exhibition Road (near the Science Museum) often has shorter queues than the grand front entrance on Cromwell Road. Use the side door especially on busy weekends to save time.

Getting There: Take the Tube to South Kensington – from there it’s a 5-minute walk through the pedestrian subway tunnel that connects directly to the museum entrances. (On rainy days, that tunnel is a lifesaver.) Gloucester Road station is another option (~10 min walk). Note that South Ken station currently does not have step-free (elevator) access – if you need step-free, you can use Knightsbridge station and walk ~15 minutes. Several buses (like routes 14, 49, 70) stop near the museum, too.

The museum is stroller-friendly with lifts to all floors, but it does get extremely crowded during school holidays – be prepared to navigate through some dino-sized crowds or consider visiting right at opening or later in the afternoon for a bit more space. There are free cloakrooms and lockers (handy to stow backpacks, coats, etc.).

Amenities: The NHM has multiple cafés (with kids’ lunch boxes available) and even an ice cream stand by the Dinosaur gallery in summer. Prices are what you’d expect at a museum café, but the convenience is great if your little one suddenly needs a snack. Bathrooms with baby changing are found on every level. The museum shop is fantastic – full of dino toys, science kits, and plush versions of museum specimens. (Yes, we left with a cuddly T. rex and have no regrets.)

Nearby Eats: Right across the street on Exhibition Road are several family-friendly restaurants. A tried-and-true choice is Comptoir Libanais (Lebanese cuisine) by South Ken station – it has a kids’ menu and is very welcoming to families. For a quick bite, there’s also a McDonald’s and plenty of cafés around. If it’s a nice day, consider walking a few blocks to Hyde Park (about 15 minutes away) for a picnic; the Diana Memorial Playground near Kensington Palace is an awesome free play area if the kids need to burn off steam after being indoors.

2025 Special Events: The NHM frequently hosts special ticketed exhibits. A major one in 2025 is “Space: Could Life Exist Beyond Earth?” (running May 2025 – Feb 2026) – an interactive exhibition where families can touch a piece of the Moon and Mars and even compete in a jet-pack squid race! We tried this out and it’s incredibly fun – imagine shooting a chameleon tongue at a target and racing model squids to learn about propulsion. It’s recommended for ages 8+, but our 6-year-old was enthralled with a bit of help. Also, keep an eye out for the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, which usually runs annually (stunning animal photos that older kids might appreciate), and seasonal events like Dino Snores (the museum’s occasional sleepover nights for kids – an unforgettable overnight at the museum). Tickets for those special programs go fast.

Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)

Why It’s Great for Families: The V&A might not scream “kids!” at first glance – it’s a world-famous museum of art and design – but don’t be fooled. This museum is surprisingly engaging for creative kids, and it has done a lot to welcome families. Wandering the V&A’s gorgeous galleries feels like a treasure hunt through fashion, jewelry, sculptures, and even furniture from all over the world and history. For children, highlights include the glamorous Theatre & Performance section (where costumes from West End shows and even Kylie Minogue’s dressing room are on display) and the towering Cast Courts, which are two Victorian halls filled with giant plaster cast replicas of famous monuments. My kids were awestruck standing beside a 38-foot-tall cast of Trajan’s Column from Rome and a huge replica of David – it’s like seeing the world’s wonders without leaving London.

The V&A also runs family workshops and activity trails that turn what could be a “don’t touch” museum into a playful experience. During school holidays, you’ll often find hands-on craft sessions where kids might create their own mini sculptures or fashion designs inspired by the collections . On regular days, you can borrow a free family backpack with an activity guide (themes like “Magic Carpet” for the Islamic art gallery or “Backpack Explorer” for sculptures) – these are filled with puzzles, stories and even props to help children engage with specific objects. My daughter loved the one where she pretended to be a detective solving mysteries about paintings.

Hours & Tickets: Open daily 10:00–17:45, and notably late on Fridays until 22:00 (with a buzzy evening atmosphere and often live music/DJ in the courtyard). Closed 24–26 December. General admission is free and you don’t need to book – you can just walk in. However, special blockbuster exhibitions (like those famed fashion exhibits) require paid tickets. If there’s a special exhibit you really want to see (e.g. recent ones were on Alexander McQueen, Frida Kahlo, etc.), definitely book those in advance online as they often sell out.

Family Highlights: Beyond the structured activities, here are some kid-friendly things to seek out in the V&A’s maze of galleries:

The Cast Courts (Room 46a & 46b): Gigantic plaster casts of European monuments. Kids feel like they’ve shrunk in a land of giants here. Play a game of “I spy” – can they find a cast of an Egyptian pharaoh? A medieval knight? (Yes, those are in there too!). The sheer scale of these replicas – like a 60-foot high column and cathedral doorways – turns a casual visit into an adventure.
Fashion Gallery: Does your child like dressing up or playing with dolls? The V&A’s fashion collection showcases fabulous clothing from 18th-century gowns to modern haute couture. My 8-year-old spent ages picking her favorite ballgown. It’s like the ultimate dress-up closet, behind glass.
Jewelry Gallery: Shiny things! This gallery glitters with diamonds and gems through history. We made a game of choosing which crown or necklace we’d wear to a royal ball. (Warning: might inspire some princess fantasies.)
Interactive Stations: Scattered in some galleries are touch screens and occasionally handling objects. In the South Asian gallery, there’s a spot where kids can try on a reproduction of a gauntlet and helmet – very cool for aspiring knights. In the Theatre section, you can listen to recordings or watch video clips from famous plays and musicals – great if your kids love performing.
John Madejski Garden: This is the V&A’s beautiful central courtyard with a shallow reflecting pool. On warm days, you’ll see children (and adults) dipping toes in or splashing hands. It’s a perfect break spot for restless kids to get some fresh air. There’s a café right by it, so parents can have a coffee while kids safely roam a bit.

Getting There: The V&A is located in South Kensington, basically next door to the Natural History and Science Museums. South Kensington Tube (Piccadilly, Circle, District Lines) is about a 5-minute walk. Like with NHM, you can use the underground tunnel from the station – the V&A has its own exit halfway down the tunnel (look for signs). Gloucester Road station is another ~10 minute walk. If you’re combining museum visits in one day, the V&A is literally across the street from the Science Museum, making it easy to do a half-day in each. Buses 14, 74, 414, and others serve the area too.

Amenities: The V&A is quite accommodating for families. They provide free strollers/buggies for loan if yours isn’t suitable (and a place to park them). Highchairs are available in the café, and the bathrooms have baby changing. One unique offering: the Discovery Area in the Europe galleries – essentially a little corner where kids can draw, try on simplified costumes, or read books related to the exhibits. It’s not huge, but it’s a nice pit stop for young ones. The museum’s main café, with its historic tiled dining rooms, welcomes kids and even has a special children’s menu and meal deals . And don’t forget to browse the V&A shop on your way out – it’s one of the best museum shops in London, with lovely art-inspired books and toys (we snagged a colouring book of fashion through the ages that kept my daughter busy for days).

Nearby Eats: Being in South Kensington, the V&A is close to lots of family-friendly dining. Across the street on Thurloe Place you’ll find Honest Burgers (great for a hearty lunch with kids, and they have a kids’ menu) and Gail’s Bakery (for sandwiches, pastries, and strong coffee for the grown-ups!). Also, the Science Museum’s café is open to the public even if you’re not visiting that museum at the moment – and it has plenty of child-friendly options if you need an easy cafeteria-style meal.

2025 Special Exhibits: The V&A often has some of London’s most talked-about exhibitions. In 2025, they’ve announced a big exhibition on Cartier’s jewelry (imagine sparkling tiaras and legendary diamonds – might captivate those into shiny bling), and another on Marie Antoinette’s fashion and style. While those sound amazing for adults, the V&A is clever in engaging younger visitors even in such exhibits – they sometimes provide family guides or trails to make it accessible. Additionally, the museum has opened a new branch called Young V&A in east London (formerly Museum of Childhood) which is entirely designed for kids – if you have extra time in your itinerary, it’s worth a trip to Bethnal Green for a super interactive museum experience. But even at the main V&A South Ken, the ever-changing array of events means there might be a family workshop or a performance on the weekend . Check the V&A’s “What’s On – Families” page before you go to time your visit with any special family days.

Science Museum

Why It’s Great for Families: The Science Museum in South Kensington is hands-on heaven for kids. It’s five floors of interactive galleries where learning and playing blend together. From giant real steam locomotives and airplanes hanging from the ceiling, to space rockets and vintage computers, this museum covers all areas of science and technology in the most engaging ways. If you have a child who asks “how does it work?” a thousand times a day, the Science Museum will be their happy place (and even if not, it might spark some new interests!). My own family easily spends an entire day here and still have to drag the kids out at closing time.

Hours & Tickets: Open daily 10:00–18:00 (last entry 17:15), closed Dec 24–26. Entry is free for the main museum and galleries, though you need to pre-book a free admission slot online (this helps control crowds). Donations are encouraged. A few special experiences inside are ticketed – more on those in a sec.

Family Highlights and Must-Do Exhibits: Honestly, almost every gallery here has something cool for kids, but here are the absolute winners in our book:

Wonderlab: The Equinor Gallery – This is the ultimate interactive science playground (ideal for ages ~5–14). It does require a ticket (around £15 for a day pass, or £24 annual pass, with family discounts). Wonderlab has over 50 exhibits where kids can experiment: launch rockets, see lightning strike, ride down giant slides to learn about friction, play with forces and gravity, and watch live science shows with exploding stuff (safely!). Live demos by enthusiastic “Explainers” happen frequently – we caught one where they made a flame tornado and another with freezing flowers in liquid nitrogen. Our kids’ verdict: “Best museum thing EVER.” It’s so worth the extra cost – we spent 3 hours in Wonderlab alone and the kids would’ve stayed longer. If you think you’ll go more than once, consider the annual pass; otherwise, a single visit ticket is fine (adults need one too). Tip: There’s a kid-friendly café right inside Wonderlab for pit stops.
Pattern Pod – A free interactive play area for younger kids (under 8). It’s all about spotting patterns in nature and technology, with touch screens, light-up games and a little dance area where your moves create patterns on a big screen. It’s adorable and located on the Ground Floor – a nice starter to get the wiggles out.
Exploring Space Gallery – Rockets and astronauts! See real space capsules, a piece of the Moon, and models of famous satellites. There’s a mock-up of the Apollo command module and some interactive stations where kids can test their reaction speed as if they’re launching a rocket. (Note: As of mid-2025, the main space gallery is undergoing a revamp – the new “Science City 1550–1800” gallery on space and astronomy opens in September 2025. Until then, some space exhibits might be temporarily relocated or closed, but there’s still plenty of space stuff to see.)
Flight Gallery – The ceiling here is a spectacle of historic aircraft. You can walk under and around actual planes, from early biplanes to a slice of a Boeing 747 jumbo jet that you can peek inside. There’s a hands-on flight simulator (for an extra fee) where older kids or adults can try piloting.
The Making of the Modern World – This gallery is like walking through the greatest hits of innovation: the Apollo 10 command module (the real one that orbited the Moon!), the first IBM PC, vintage cars, Stephenson’s Rocket steam locomotive, and even a Ford Model T car. My son loved pointing out “old-fashioned” versions of tech he knows – it’s a great conversation starter about how far things have come.
Medicine: The Wellcome Galleries – If your kids aren’t too squeamish, the new medicine galleries are actually fascinating. There are giant 3D models of the human body, historical medical instruments, and interactive touchscreens to explore how treatments have evolved. Perhaps not for the youngest kiddos, but our 10-year-old got a kick out of the Victorian surgical tools (in a gross-funny way).

And so much more – from the Information Age gallery (with vintage computers and the story of how we started communicating electronically) to the Atmosphere gallery about climate science. You literally can’t cover it all in one go, so pick a few areas based on your child’s interests.

Getting There: Same cluster as the Natural History Museum – South Kensington station is your best bet (5-minute walk). There’s an entrance on Exhibition Road. Buses 14, 49, 70, etc., also stop close by. The Science Museum is adjacent to the NHM, so if you’re museum-hopping, it’s an easy stroll next door. If you have a stroller, step-free access is via the Exhibition Road entrance (the main front entrance has a few steps). Inside, elevators connect all floors.

Amenities: Very family-friendly. There are multiple toilets on each floor with baby changing. Stroller parking areas by gallery entrances (especially at Wonderlab and Pattern Pod) so you can leave buggies and chase the kids freely. A nice touch: lockers on the Ground Floor (£1 or so) if you want to store bags. The museum has two main eateries – a casual Energy Café on ground level and a more substantial Deep Blue Café one floor down – both cater to kids (think sandwiches, nuggets, chips, fruit cups, etc.). Prices are okay and there’s plenty of seating. We often pack a few snacks and then treat the kids to ice cream from the museum’s stall. Also, check out the basement – there’s a picnic area with tables if you bring your own lunch, plus an indoor play area for under-5s called The Garden (temporarily closed for redevelopment in 2025, but might reopen in future).

The gift shop here is a kid’s paradise: science kits, build-your-own robot sets, astronaut ice cream, plus an array of pocket-money toys. I basically use it for birthday gift shopping too. Good news: if you become a member or have an annual Wonderlab pass, you get a discount in the shop.

Nearby Eats: Same as with the V&A and NHM – South Ken area is full of options. Directly across the street you’ll find cafes like Paul (French bakery) and Casa Brindisa (Spanish tapas, if your kids are adventurous eaters). For a guaranteed kid-pleaser, head to Byron Burger or Shake Shack for burgers and shakes. There’s also a Pizza Hut just south of South Ken station that’s popular with families (buffet lunch FTW). If you finish at the Science Museum towards evening, consider taking a short walk or bus to Kensington High Street, where you can find the Rainforest Café’s sister restaurant Jungle Cave – a jungle-themed eatery that’s pure fun for kids (animatronic elephants and thunderstorm effects included!). It’s touristy, yes, but a memorable way to end a science-filled day.

2025 Special Events: The Science Museum regularly offers “Science Night” sleepovers for 7-11 year-olds – basically a giant museum slumber party where kids do workshops and then sleep among the exhibits (how cool is that?). Dates are limited and they book up quickly. Also, every last Wednesday of the month, the museum does an adults-only Lates event at night – so not for the kids, but mentioning in case parents want a night out while in London (find a babysitter and go play with the gadgets sans children!). A noteworthy upcoming addition is the new Space Gallery slated to open in autumn 2025, which will feature actual spacecraft that have flown in space – something to look forward to if your visit is later in the year. And if you have teens, check if any special IMAX films are playing in the museum’s huge IMAX theatre – they often show stunning educational 3D films about space, deep sea, etc., which run in the early evenings.

Imperial War Museum London (IWM London)

Outside IWM London, kids and adults alike are drawn to the massive 15-inch naval guns flanking the entrance – a dramatic piece of history you can literally touch.

Why It’s Great for Families: You might not immediately think a war museum is family-friendly, given the heavy subject. But IWM London does a fantastic job of being educational and engaging without being too overwhelming for younger visitors (with a few sections you can bypass for the littlest ones). This museum covers Britain’s experiences in warfare from World War I to the present. For families, the appeal lies in the big artifacts – we’re talking tanks, planes, submarines, rockets – that are on display, and the personal stories that bring history to life. Walking into the museum’s atrium, your kids’ jaws will drop seeing real fighter planes suspended overhead and actual military tanks and missiles parked on the floor. It’s like a history lesson delivered through awe-inspiring real objects. My son (a military vehicle fanatic) could hardly contain himself when he saw the Spitfire and Harrier jet hanging above us.

Hours & Tickets: Open daily 10:00–18:00 (last admission 17:30). Closed Dec 24–26. Admission is free for all, including the main galleries and special exhibitions. No booking required – just walk in. That said, on weekends or around Remembrance Day (Nov 11) it can get busy, so coming early is wise.

Family Highlights: There’s plenty to capture kids’ imaginations and sense of adventure here:

Large Exhibits in the Atrium: This central space is basically a military hardware playground (look, don’t climb!). Some stars include a Spitfire plane (from WWII) and a Harrier jump jet, both hanging from the ceiling as if in flight. On the ground you’ll find a WWI-era tank, a German V-2 rocket bomb (the kind that hit London in WWII), and even an actual piece of the Berlin Wall you can touch. Kids can walk around these machines and ask a million questions – and the great thing is, there are often volunteer guides around who love to answer them. We met an elderly gentleman who passionately explained how the Spitfire’s engine worked to my curious 11-year-old, which was a lovely intergenerational moment.
Trench Experience: In the World War I gallery, they’ve recreated sections of a trenche with sound effects and sights to simulate the front lines. It’s atmospheric (dark and a bit loud), but incredibly insightful for kids to feel what conditions were like. You’ll hear the muffled booms of distant bombs and see “rats” projected scurrying by. My kids walked through wide-eyed and emerged with a newfound appreciation of what soldiers endured. It’s not gory, just a bit spooky – I’d say it’s fine for ages 8+ (younger if accompanied and prepped).
The Blitz and Family in Wartime: The WWII galleries contain interactive elements like a mock-up of a bombed-out house and an air raid shelter you can sit in while hearing a Blitz-era radio broadcast. There’s also a section about families during the war – including a model of a typical 1940s British kitchen and living room with wartime rations, where kids can play a matching game about food rationing. It helps them relate to what life was like for kids their age in those times.
Surveillance and Spies: A newer exhibit covers the Cold War and espionage gadgets – not as large in scale, but things like hidden cameras in coat buttons and code-cracking machines might intrigue your future spy. There are touch screens where kids can try solving simple coded messages.
For Younger Kids: The museum has recognized that not all content is suitable for small children, so they’ve created family activity stations on weekends and school breaks. These might be craft tables where kids can, say, make their own medal or poppy, or story-telling sessions about real animals who served in wars (like Wojtek the bear or military carrier pigeons – fascinating true tales!). These are free and usually drop-ini. Check the info desk when you arrive for times. There’s also a Family Trail booklet you can get, which gives kids things to spot and questions to answer throughout the museum – sort of like a scavenger hunt that keeps them engaged.
Holocaust and WW2 Galleries: Heads up – the museum includes a very comprehensive Holocaust Exhibition and new WW2 galleries. The Holocaust exhibit is intense and recommended for ages 14+ only; it has explicit content about genocide that is not appropriate for young kids (and there are clear signs and staff at the entrance to enforce this). So if you have young ones, you’ll want to skip that section entirely (it’s in a separate area). The World War II galleries, however, are family-friendly and present the war’s events through artifacts and personal stories in a thoughtful way. Use your discretion based on your child’s sensitivity and age – some images of bombings and casualties are present, but not extreme.

Education Through Objects: One thing I love about IWM is how they use real objects to tell personal stories. For instance, in a display about evacuation (when city kids were sent to the countryside during WWII), they have a little girl’s suitcase with the actual tags and a teddy bear she carried, alongside her letters. My 8-year-old daughter was very moved by imagining having to leave home with just a small suitcase. These human touches make history relatable for children.

Getting There: IWM London is located in Lambeth (south of the River). The closest Tube is Lambeth North (Bakerloo Line) about a 5-10 minute walk. Elephant & Castle (Bakerloo/Northern) is about 10 minutes the other direction. Waterloo Station (with multiple tube lines and trains) is a 15-minute walk – we often go via Waterloo and follow the signs. Plenty of buses stop nearby, including route 360 which literally stops by the museum gate, and others like 3, 59, 159 to Lambeth Road. If coming from central, a fun way is to walk over Westminster Bridge (by Big Ben) and continue down Lambeth Road – about 20 minutes, passing by the Imperial War Museum’s pretty park.

The museum is inside a historic building (it used to be the Bethlem Royal Hospital – interesting fact for older kids into history of medicine), with lovely gardens out front where those giant naval guns sit. It’s fully accessible with ramps and lifts inside.

Amenities: Very good for families: there are toilets with baby changing on every floor except the top two. You can borrow free strollers at the Info desk if little legs get tired. Lockers are available (£1 coin) if you need to stash bags. The museum’s cafeteria (run by Peyton & Byrne) is on the ground floor with big windows overlooking the park. It has lots of kid-friendly fare – pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, plus a kids’ meal deal. We found it reasonably priced and they have highchairs. On busy days, an overflow “Tea Room” sometimes opens up for teas and cakes. You’re also welcome to picnic in the park out front; many families do that on nice days.

The gift shop here is a hit with kids who like toy soldiers, model planes, and such. They sell things like replica WWII posters, kids’ books about wartime evacuees, and even dress-up costumes (my son badly wanted the RAF pilot costume). There are also inexpensive souvenirs like poppy pins and keychains. One unique idea: they sell ration-book style notebooks that my kids found very “cool” for school.

Sensitivity Note: Given the subject matter, you might get some deep or difficult questions from your kids after or during the visit (“Why do wars happen?” “Could that happen to us?” etc.). The museum actually provides a Family Guide brochure with tips on how to discuss these topics with children in an age-appropriate way. I found that very thoughtful – it helped me frame answers without getting too dark, focusing on themes of hope, reconciliation, and learning from the past. Also, you know your child best – if you sense they’re getting overwhelmed at any point, take a break in the café or switch to a lighter section (like the interactive family stations or the art gallery upstairs that shows war art – it’s calmer).

Nearby Eats & Attractions: After the museum, if the weather’s nice, consider walking 10-15 minutes to the Southbank Centre area (by Waterloo) where there are often street food markets and performers. The Archduke and Wahaca near Waterloo are both family-friendly dining options (Archduke does great pasta and steak in a casual jazz-themed setting; Wahaca is fun Mexican street food). If your kids aren’t museumed-out, the Florence Nightingale Museum (all about the famous nurse) is nearby at St. Thomas’ Hospital – a small but child-friendly museum with a “follow the lamp” trail. Or, just enjoy a run around in Archbishop’s Park or Jubilee Gardens by the London Eye. Speaking of which – since you’re in the area, an evening ride on the London Eye could be a great post-dinner treat, to see the city lights.

2025 Special Exhibits: IWM London occasionally has temporary exhibitions that are free and suitable for families. In summer 2025, one such exhibition is “Unsilenced: Sexual Violence in Conflict” (May–Nov 2025) – definitely not one for kids, but worth noting for adult visitors. Instead, families might enjoy special event days: for example, the museum holds “Family Missions” on certain weekends where kids get a “mission pack” and go find clues around the galleries. Also, 2025 marks 80 years since the end of WWII, and IWM is commemorating with events and maybe even veteran meet-and-greets. Check their calendar – we once attended a family day where kids crafted WWII propaganda-style posters and it was both fun and educational. If you have older kids interested in modern conflicts, the museum’s newly updated Falklands War and Afghanistan sections are very informative, and sometimes you’ll find guest speakers (veterans) making appearances to share stories – a powerful experience for teens learning about recent history.

Museum of London Docklands

Why It’s Great for Families: Housed in a 200-year-old warehouse on the Thames, the Museum of London Docklands is a hidden gem that brings London’s maritime past to life – and it’s incredibly family-friendly. This museum explores the history of the River Thames, the growth of the Docklands and Canary Wharf area, and London’s role as a port city through the centuries. It’s run by the same folks who operated the Museum of London (the main site is relocating), so they really know how to engage kids with London’s stories. Think pirates, treasure chests, Victorian sailors, and even a recreation of a dark Dickensian street you can wander down. My kids left this museum with newfound “pirate slang” and a weird enthusiasm for digging up clay pipes by the river (inspired by what they learned about “mudlarks” – more on that in a sec).

Hours & Tickets: Open daily 10:00–17:00 (last entry ~4:30pm). Free admission to all the permanent galleries! No booking needed, just walk in. This museum is usually quieter than the big central ones, which can be a nice breather. (Closed only around Christmas/New Year’s).

Family Highlights: The Museum of Docklands is tailor-made for kids, especially under 10s, with interactive exhibits and even a soft play area:

“Mudlarks” Children’s Gallery: Let’s start with the superstar – Mudlarks is an interactive play zone for under-8s that is so popular you need a (free or very low-cost) ticket with a time slot to enter . It’s essentially a mini indoor playground themed around the docks: kids can load cargo on a toy ship, play with a water table (yes, there are smocks to keep ’em dry…mostly), and even pretend to be dockworkers with cranes and pulleys moving foam “bananas” and “tea crates”. There’s a soft play area for toddlers and a pretend fish market where little ones can weigh faux fish. My preschooler absolutely loves this space – it’s fun and also sneaks in some learning about trade and shipping. Note: As of 2025, Mudlarks costs a token fee of £3.50 per child for a 45-minute session (it used to be free, but the small fee helps manage demand). Book your Mudlarks session online in advance, especially for weekends – spots open two weeks ahead and go quickly. Totally worth it. We adults honestly had fun in there too, racing boats on the water table.
Sailortown Gallery: This is my personal favorite – a dimly lit atmospheric recreation of a Victorian London dockside street circa 1840. You stroll through narrow alleys in semi-darkness, peeping into windows of old taverns, chandlery shops, and even a spooky sailors’ church. There are fake rats (much to my son’s delight) and authentic sounds like distant thunder and ship bells. It feels like walking into a Dickens novel. Kids will either find it super cool or a bit creepy (or both), but it definitely leaves an impression! Ours pretended they were time travelers sneaking through the night. There’s nothing jumpy or overtly scary, just a very immersive scene. We played “I spy” with things like “find the black cat in the window” which helped them explore without getting spooked.
Docklands at War: A section showing how the docks were affected during WWII, with bomb damage and stories of local children. One interactive here lets kids sit in a replica Anderson shelter used during air raids. They can also try on costumes (there are kid-sized wartime hats and jackets) and imagine being an evacuee or a dockworker. The dressing up corner makes for cute photos.
Trade and Slavery Galleries: For older kids (upper primary and teens), the museum addresses the role of the London docks in the transatlantic slave trade. There are thoughtful displays including real shackles and documents. It’s heavy history but presented accessibly – for instance, through the story of a child in London whose family profited from sugar plantations. If your kids are studying this in school, it’s a valuable visit. If your children are younger, you might skim through this part or focus on the less intense elements (like the exhibits about sugar and spices and how they were traded).
Hands-On History: Throughout the museum there are interactive bits – touch a cannonball that was actually dredged from the Thames, sniff some giant sugar cones (okay, they don’t smell like sugar anymore, but you get the idea), and hoist a tea crate using a pulley to see if you’d cut it as a dockworker. There are also digital touchscreens with quiz games about what cargo goes where, etc. Enough to keep wiggly kids engaged.

One highlight our kids talk about still: the museum sometimes has staff or volunteers doing live demonstrations. We caught a “Mudlark tour” where a guide showed how real Victorian-era mudlarks (poor kids who scavenged in the river mud for valuables) lived. They even had trays of sand for kids to sift and find “treasures” like clay pipe fragments and pottery – which they loved. Check the schedule when you arrive; on weekends there’s often a family activity or short guided walk included.

Getting There: The museum is located at West India Quay in the Docklands (East London). It’s super easy by public transport: take the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) to West India Quay station – it’s literally a 2-minute walk from there (station and museum are both stroller accessible). Alternatively, Canary Wharf station (Jubilee Line Tube or DLR) is about a 5-7 minute walk – not bad either, and that route goes through the modern skyscrapers of Canary Wharf, which kids find impressive. (Mine call it “London’s future city” because of all the shiny buildings). If coming by Thames Clipper boat, the Canary Wharf Pier is ~10 mins walk. The museum is fully accessible with ramps and elevators.

Amenities: Excellent. They really cater to families:

Stroller-friendly: Spacious galleries and elevators to all floors of the warehouse. If you have a pram, you’re fine.
Baby Change: Facilities on every floor, and they are clean.
Café: There’s a nice ground-floor café overlooking the dock water, with plenty of highchairs and a kids’ menu (they do little lunch boxes with sandwich, fruit, drink – the usual). Prices aren’t too bad, and on a sunny day you can sit outside by the old crane. It’s a peaceful spot.
Picnic: You can also bring your own food; there’s a designated lunch space for school groups that on weekends often sits empty and families use it to picnic indoors.
Lockers: Yes, coin-operated, if you need to stow bags.
Shop: The small gift shop here is full of pirate-y goodies and London souvenirs. We picked up a book about the Thames’ secret finds and a rubber duck dressed as a pirate (naturally). They also sell toy boats and playmobil-like dockworker figures.

One more awesome feature: the museum runs special early opening sessions for children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) on certain mornings – called “Morning Explorers”. The lights are softer, fewer people, and more sensory-friendly. I attended once with a friend and her autistic son – the staff went above and beyond to make it comfortable. This speaks to how family-conscious this place is.

Nearby Eats & Attractions: The Docklands area has transformed into a leisure hub. Right next to the museum is a stretch of restaurants along West India Quay – including Pizza Pilgrims (really good Neapolitan pizza, kid-friendly) and Nando’s (peri-peri chicken – always a hit with kids who like a mild spice, and they have plain options too). If your kids have any energy after the museum, walk over to Jubilee Park at Canary Wharf, which has water features and often outdoor art/sculptures – fun for a stroll. A short DLR ride away (or 15-min walk) is Mudchute Park & Farm, a free city farm with animals (including sheep and llamas) – a nice complement after learning about how goods came from farms to city! And for a unique thrill, consider taking the IFS Cloud Cable Car (formerly Emirates Air Line cable car) across the Thames from nearby Royal Victoria Dock – it’s about 10 minutes DLR from the museum, and offers a bird’s-eye view of the area at a very reasonable price. My kids pretend it’s a “rocket ride” every time.

2025 Special Exhibit – “Secrets of the Thames”: Very timely – the museum launched a major exhibition in April 2025 all about mudlarking and treasures found in the Thames mud. “Secrets of the Thames: Mudlarking London’s Lost Treasures” runs from April 2025 until March 1, 2026phys.org. It’s ticketed (around £16 for adults, kids go free or cheap) and features over 350 objects that real mudlarks have found in the river, from Roman pottery to Tudor shoes and even 19th-century toys . We visited this and it was fantastic – they turned it into a semi-interactive adventure. Kids get a little booklet and at certain stations they can “dig” or solve puzzles to identify objects. The exhibition also has some digital games, like matching artifacts to the river conditions that preserved them. There’s even a station where you can sniff what the Thames smells like at low tide (uh, arguably one kids found both gross and giggle-inducing). It really ignited my kids’ inner archaeologist – afterward we actually went down to the Thames foreshore at low tide (with proper guidance and times) to do our own mini mudlark, which was a highlight of our trip. If you have the time and your kids enjoy a good treasure hunt, I highly recommend this exhibit . Just be sure to book in advance, as time slots can sell out on weekends.

Sir John Soane’s Museum

Why It’s Great for Families: Sir John Soane’s Museum is a delightful oddball – a smaller museum, but one that feels like stepping into a real-life cabinet of curiosities (because it was one!). It’s actually the preserved home of Sir John Soane, a famous 19th-century architect, and it’s crammed floor-to-ceiling with intriguing artifacts: Greek vases, Roman busts, Egyptian mummies, even bits of medieval churches. Imagine a real Haunted Mansion from a storybook – creaky floors, secret panels, winding staircases – but not actually haunted, just magical. Families with kids (particularly ages ~8 and up) who enjoy “I Spy” games, spooky stories, or treasure hunts will find this house-museum captivating. We call it “the museum of mysteries” for our kids, and it truly is a little adventure to visit.

Hours & Tickets: Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30). Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Free entry for everyone – and no reservation needed as of 2025 (they used timed tickets for a while post-Covid, but now it’s walk-in). Because it’s a small historic house, capacity is limited – you might have to queue outside for a short time if it’s busy (they only let a certain number in at once to avoid crowding). We waited about 10 minutes on a Saturday afternoon. Tip: go early in the day or later (like 4pm) to avoid any wait.

Atmosphere and Family Tips: The Soane is not a typical open gallery museum; it’s literally a preserved house, so kids need to be mindful of not touching objects and staying with you (it’s dim in places, and there are genuine ancient artifacts within arm’s reach). That said, the staff are kind and used to families – they’ll gently remind if needed, but they won’t glare at you for bringing children. In fact, they encourage it! The museum offers family trail booklets at the entrance – definitely grab one. These trail guides turn the visit into a treasure hunt, asking kids to find specific quirky items in each room (like “Can you spot the sleeping dog painting?” or “How many skulls can you count in the crypt?”). This transformed our visit – the kids were racing around (quietly) trying to one-up each other in spotting hidden details. There’s also a “Soane family pack” you can download from their website or on a smartphone, which has puzzles and even an audio tour voiced by a friendly guide for kids.

Family Highlights Inside:

The Sarcophagus of Pharaoh Seti I: Yes, in the basement “Sepulchral Chamber”, Soane placed an enormous Egyptian sarcophagus from 3,000+ years ago – it’s covered in hieroglyphs and is jaw-dropping. Soane was so proud of this piece that he held a three-day party in 1825 when he acquired it. For kids, it’s like finding a mummy’s tomb in a London house – super cool. We spent time deciphering hieroglyphs (or pretending to) and talking about Egyptian myths. This piece alone is worth the visit (and the room is beautifully lit by stained glass, adding to the drama).
Secret Mirrors and Hidden Panels: Throughout the house, Soane installed clever mirrors and skylights to create optical illusions. In the downstairs crypt area, ask the staff about the “mirror that isn’t a mirror” – there’s a niche where a mirror tricks you into thinking there’s a matching room beyond (blew my kids’ minds). Also, the famous “Picture Room” has walls that are actually hinged panels – the guide will sometimes open them to reveal that paintings are hanging double-decker style. Inside those panels are even more paintings (like a magic art closet). If you’re there when a guide is doing this demonstration (happens a few times a day), it’s enchanting – like opening a secret door.
Hogarth’s Election Series: Soane collected a set of satirical paintings by William Hogarth. They’re in the Picture Room (accessible when staff open it up). Even if kids don’t get the historical context, they enjoy pointing out the funny characters and chaos in these paintings – drunken men, pigs under tables, etc. It’s like Where’s Waldo in 18th-century style.
Little Details Hunt: There are countless odd treasures: a giant black wooden bedpost carved like a pineapple, hanging glass lanterns, a terracotta model of Soane’s own head, and even the alabaster “Achilles statue” from the original Bank of England building that Soane designed (we made a mini game of seeing who could find “Achilles” first in each room – Soane had multiple!). Encourage your kids to ask the friendly room wardens questions – they often carry flashlights and will point out something like, “Shine it up there, see that flying bat sculpture?”

Note: Because it’s a house, there are narrow stairs and tight spaces; strollers/prams are not practical inside (you can leave them at the entrance). Also there’s no café – it’s a short visit (maybe 1 hour), so plan a snack before or after.

Events for Families: The museum frequently holds family workshops during school holidays. These could be art activities like stained-glass painting, architectural drawing for kids, or even Lego build sessions inspired by the museum. They are usually very affordable (£0–£10) and require booking. For example, in summer 2025 they had a “Design Your Own Mini Museum” drop-in where kids built a tiny museum out of craft materials – fitting, since Soane’s house is like his personal mini museum. During Halloween, they’ve done fun “Haunted House” family workshops, crafting spooky house decorations. Check their website’s family section for schedules if your trip coincides with a holiday period.

Getting There: The museum is in Lincoln’s Inn Fields (Holborn area, central London). Holborn Tube (Central/Piccadilly Line) is a 5-minute walk. Chancery Lane (Central) is also about 7 minutes. It’s actually not far from the British Museum – about a 10-15 minute walk south from BM through Bloomsbury. Pushing a stroller through London? The sidewalks to Soane’s are fine and there’s a small step-free entrance if needed (ask staff).

Amenities: No café or restaurant on site, but there are toilets (tiny, one person ones – do use the loo before coming if you can). No gift shop either (just a small corner with books/postcards). This is more a short exploratory visit rather than an all-day destination.

Nearby Eats & Park: Right across the square (Lincoln’s Inn Fields) is a large park that’s perfect for a picnic or letting kids run around. There’s even a little playground at the northwest corner of the fields. We grabbed sandwiches from Pret A Manger on Kingsway and picnicked there post-visit. For a sit-down meal, Ship Tavern is a historic pub nearby that allows kids and does a mean fish & chips. Also, you’re a short walk from Covent Garden/The Strand where tons of eateries await, from diners to ice cream shops.

2025 Special Notes: 2025 marks the 200th anniversary of Soane acquiring his prized Seti I sarcophagus (he got it in 1825) – the museum is celebrating with special talks and even a family drop-in about Egyptian board games (they held one where kids learned Senet, an ancient game, to honor the sarcophagus’s history). So if your kids are into Egypt, keep an eye out for these themed events. Also, the museum offers a unique monthly Candlelight Tour (first Tuesday each month, evening) where the house is lit by real candles – absolutely magical but not for young kids (and quite popular, tickets required). Instead, maybe create your own “candlelit” adventure by having your kids bring a little electric candle or flashlight to explore the dark nooks (with permission from staff).

In summary, Sir John Soane’s Museum is a quick, quirky stop that often ends up as a surprisingly fun memory. It’s one of those places where, on the cab ride home, your kid might say, “Remember that weird house with the secret doors? That was so cool.” And as a parent, you secretly relish that they soaked up art, history, and architecture without even realizing it, all while having a mini adventure.

London Transport Museum

All aboard! Historic London buses on display at the London Transport Museum – kids can climb on some of these vintage double-deckers and let their imaginations drive.

Why It’s Great for Families: What kid (or adult) isn’t fascinated by the big red buses and Tube trains of London? The London Transport Museum (LTM) in Covent Garden celebrates all things that move Londoners – from Victorian horse-drawn buses to the newest Tube trains – and it’s incredibly hands-on and kid-friendly. This museum often tops the list for families because children can climb aboard real buses and trains, pretend to drive a Tube simulator, design their own transport posters, and basically play while learning about 200 years of London’s transport history. It’s colourful, interactive, and perfectly pitched to engage young minds (while also delivering a dose of nostalgia for parents and grandparents).

Hours & Tickets: Open daily 10:00–18:00 (last admission 17:15). Closed only Dec 24–26. Now, unlike most museums on this list, the LTM is not free – but the ticket is actually an annual pass. Here’s how it works: Adult tickets are about £24.50 (concessions £23.50) and kids under 18 go free. When you buy an adult ticket, it’s valid for unlimited visits for 12 months. So if you plan to be in London for a bit or return within a year, it’s good value. If it’s a one-time short trip, yes it’s pricy, but at least the kids are free (and frankly, they’ll get your money’s worth in enjoyment!). You can buy tickets online or at the door; online might save a bit of time.

Family Highlights: Honestly, the whole museum is a highlight reel for kids, but here are the standout features:

Historic Vehicles You Can Board: Scattered across the museum floor are actual historic public transport vehicles. Kids can climb the stairs of a 100-year-old double-decker bus (yes, ring the bell!), sit in the driver’s seat of a red Routemaster bus from the 1960, and wander through a train carriage from the 1890s lit by gas lamps. The vehicles are set up to welcome exploration – one train has wooden flip-seats and old ads on the walls, which sparked a fun conversation with my kids about what commuting must’ve been like in great-grandma’s day. There’s also an old tram you can step into and a shiny 1950s Tube carriage where kids love pushing the door buttons (they don’t actually open, but it feels real).
All Aboard Play Zone: Speaking of kid heaven, on the upper level is “All Aboard”, a dedicated play area for children under 8. It features miniature vehicles and role-play opportunities: little ones can drive a make-believe Tube train (complete with controls and flashing lights), work at a lost property office (with soft toys to “sort”), play conductor on a tiny bus, or even dress up as mechanics and “fix” a pretend Tube carriage. There’s a soft play “Baby DLR” area for toddlers with foam building blocks and an interactive wall. This zone is incredibly well-designed – we practically had to bribe our 3-year-old to leave. Parents can sit and watch or join in. It’s friendly, safe, and an ideal mid-museum break for younger kids.
Stamp Trail: On entry, ask for the stampable trail card. Around the museum, especially near vehicles, there are stamping machines. Kids can insert their card and pull a lever to imprint a transport-related shape (bus, train, etc.) at each station. This simple activity – a bit like collecting passport stamps – is weirdly motivating. It ensures you see all the key spots, and my kids treated it like a mission to get every stamp.
Interactive Galleries: Many galleries have interactive exhibits. In the “Design for Travel” area, there’s a magnetic wall where kids can create their own roundel (the iconic London Underground logo) or arrange route magnets. In the Future Engineers gallery, older kids can try a Tube driving simulator that’s quite realistic (people do queue up for this, but each go is only a minute or two). There’s also a game where you can “drive” a virtual Thames riverboat, steering it on a big screen. We also liked the train driving game where you have to keep a DLR train on time – it’s harder than it looks but fun when siblings compete for best score.
Vehicles & History Displays: For kids who geek out on vehicles (or adults who do), seeing the evolution from horse-drawn omnibus to electric trams to modern Tube trains is fascinating. Each major piece usually has a kid-level display or model. For instance, there’s a cut-through model of a Tube train showing all the inner workings which my son stared at forever. Another favorite spot is the “Cabman’s Shelter” exhibit – a small hut where Victorian cab drivers took breaks. It’s set up so you can peek in and hear an audio of them chatting (brings history to life). Don’t miss the giant world’s first underground steam locomotive on display, and point out to kids how the early Tube trains were pulled by steam engines – cue amazement that smoke could be in tunnels!

Getting There: The LTM is smack in the middle of Covent Garden Piazza – a lively, pedestrian area. Covent Garden Tube (Piccadilly Line) is the closest (~2 minute walk). Note: Covent Garden station has lifts and 15+ stairs – if you have a stroller, you might prefer Leicester Square station (5 min walk, which has elevators too) or Charing Cross (10 min walk) to avoid the Covent Garden bottleneck. Numerous bus routes stop on the Strand or Aldwych nearby. The museum has an elevator and ramp at the entrance for step-free access; inside is entirely stroller accessible with lifts to all floors.

Amenities: Very family-oriented:

Bathrooms & Changing: Multiple toilets with baby changing (and a family toilet). Covent Garden also has public toilets but you likely won’t need those.
Café “Canteen”: There’s a nice café on the upper level (overlooking the Piazza) with reasonably priced light meals, coffees, and plenty of kid options (sandwiches, mac ‘n’ cheese, etc.). It’s styled after a vintage canteen and even has transport-themed cookies. The big windows mean you might catch a street performer’s act from above while you eat.
Food flexibility: You can exit for lunch and re-enter since your ticket is an annual pass – just keep the receipt or get a hand stamp. So if you fancy stepping out to Covent Garden market for lunch (tons of choices from Shake Shack to pretzel stands) and coming back, that’s doable.
Lockers: Available (coin-operated) to stash bags/jackets.
Gift Shop: Oh boy, budget for this one – it’s epic. They have everything from wooden train sets of the Tube, to model buses, kids’ books, posters, even socks with the famous Tube map design. It’s very tempting. They also often have a pick-and-mix candy section themed around “travel sweets”. It’s a fun place to browse; we never leave empty-handed.

Nearby Fun: Being in Covent Garden, you’re steps from the famous Covent Garden Market – often with street performers, from magicians to musicians, which is free entertainment the kids will enjoy. Also within a short walk is the London Film Museum which often has a Bond in Motion car exhibition (if your kids like cars, that’s neat, though it’s a paid attraction). For a sweet treat after the museum, check out Milk Train on Bedford Street – they do ice cream cones with cotton candy clouds on them. And if the kids still have energy come evening, the West End theatres are all around – perhaps catch a family-friendly show like “Matilda” or “The Lion King” (subject to bedtime and attention span!).

2025 Special Events: The LTM hosts regular family events especially during half-term and holidays. For example, they have “Family Station” activities where kids can craft or participate in storytime – in 2025 they’ve had a make-your-own-driver’s-badge workshop and storytelling sessions about the first female bus drivers. One perennial event is “Steam Days” where they bring out a real heritage steam bus or vintage Tube car to the Piazza for demonstrations – super cool for little trainspotters. Keep an eye on their website for what’s on during your visit. Additionally, the museum has a sister site: the London Transport Museum Depot in Acton, which opens for special open-day weekends a few times a year. That depot is like the behind-the-scenes storage with hundreds of more vehicles and artifacts – great for hardcore fans or if you happen to be in town during an open weekend, but not necessary for a casual visit.

Lastly, if your kids enjoyed the Transport Museum, consider taking them on a classic Routemaster bus ride. London still operates heritage Routemaster buses on the #15 route between Trafalgar Square and Tower of London (as of 2025, weekends in summer only). It’s a living extension of the museum experience – hopping on an old-timey bus (open platform at back) and seeing London’s sights. We did this after our museum trip and it felt like bringing history to life in real time.

Horniman Museum and Gardens

The Horniman’s famous overstuffed Walrus – a beloved (and slightly bizarre) icon of the museum’s Natural History Gallery that kids can’t help but gawk at.

Why It’s Great for Families: The Horniman Museum is a bit off the typical tourist trail (located in South London’s Forest Hill), but it’s a fantastic family museum combining natural history, world cultures, music, and beautiful gardens. I sometimes describe the Horniman as “a mini British Museum meets mini Natural History Museum, plus a zoo and park” – and importantly, it’s all designed with families in mind. It has a huge stuffed walrus as its star (more on that in a moment), an aquarium, a music gallery where you can play instruments, and lovely outdoor spaces including an animal walk with live goats and alpacas. If you want a museum day that also involves running on lawns with a view of the London skyline and maybe a picnic, the Horniman is perfect. Locals adore it (we often go on weekends with our kids), and visitors who make the trek are often pleasantly surprised by this quirky, charming museum.

Hours & Tickets: Museum open daily 10:00–17:30 (closed Dec 24–26). Free entry to the main museum and gardens. Note: The Aquarium and Butterfly House inside are ticketed extras (about £5 adults, £2.50 kids each), and occasional special exhibitions also have a fee. If you plan to do it all, consider a family membership – but if it’s a one-time visit, perhaps just add on the Aquarium. The Gardens are open earlier and later (7:15am to dusk in summer) and are free.

Family Highlights:

The Overstuffed Walrus: We have to start here. In the Natural History Gallery stands a life-size taxidermy walrus that has become the Horniman’s unofficial mascot. It’s famously “overstuffed” – when it was mounted in 1880, the taxidermist had never seen a walrus and didn’t realize they have folds, so he filled it to the brim. The result is a giant, smooth, rotund walrus looking rather comical (like a big brown beanbag with tusks). Kids LOVE it – it’s so odd and endearing. There’s even a sign that says “Thank you for not touching the walrus or sitting on the iceberg” (the walrus is perched on a fake ice floe), which always makes us chuckle. We always ask the kids to imagine how this walrus might sound or what it’s thinking – cue creative answers. It’s a great photo op and basically the Horniman’s version of Dippy the dino (iconic!).
Natural History Gallery: Beyond the walrus, this old-school gallery has that classic Victorian charm: cases of taxidermy animals from around the world. Kids can get up close to lions, foxes, exotic birds, and even a freaky floating narwhal tusk (which some used to think was a unicorn horn). They’ve updated many displays with kid-friendly panels – e.g., there’s a fun game where you guess which animals are the heaviest or fastest. One section is all about fossils and rocks (with things to touch), and another about extinct animals where you can see a dodo model and a quagga (an extinct zebra) skin. It’s fascinating and makes for good discussions about conservation.
Hands-On Nature Exploration: The Horniman shines in interactive learning. They often have handling trolleys where staff let kids touch real specimens – skulls, feathers, shells, etc. Check the schedule for Nature Explorers or similar drop-ins. We once joined a session where my kids held a giant snail and a snake skin – they were thrilled (and a bit grossed out, in a good way).
Aquarium: Downstairs, the Horniman has a small but excellent aquarium (requires a ticket). It’s arranged by habitat – e.g., a coral reef tank with Nemo-clownfish, an Amazonian tank with stingrays, jellyfish tanks, and my favorite: the British Pond section, where you peek into an indoor pond environment and see what’s going on underwater with native fish and amphibians. The aquarium is very kid-friendly (low viewing windows, not too dark or scary) and usually not too crowded. If your child is an ocean lover, it’s worth the few pounds.
Music Instrument Gallery: A whole gallery is dedicated to musical instruments from around the world, and many have buttons to press so you can hear what they sound like. There’s a hands-on area where kids can bang on a West African xylophone, play a giant gong, or strum a harp. They even have a Theremin you can try (that’s an eerie instrument you play without touching). My kids formed a pseudo-band here – it was hilarious noise, but they learned about rhythms from different cultures in the process.
World Cultures Gallery: This is like a mini tour of global cultures – from Amazonian tribal masks to Benin bronzes to a display on London’s historical tea trade. They incorporate stories of children from various cultures too, which my kids found relatable. A cool spot is the African Masquerade display, which sometimes has a dress-up corner where kids can try on replica masks or costumes.
Gardens and Animal Walk: Once you’ve explored inside, the 16-acre gardens await – and they’re gorgeous. Walk up to the Animal Walk where you can see live alpacas, goats, sheep, chickens, rabbits, and more. It’s like a mini zoo/petting farm (though you can’t pet the animals through the fence). The goats are usually quite social and come up to say hello – my kids love naming them and mimicking their bleats. There are also beautiful flower beds, a decorative Victorian sunken garden, and a quaint butterfly house (summer only, ticketed). Don’t miss the musical instrument garden, an outdoor area where kids can play large percussion instruments like xylophones and chimes – so they can be loud and musical outdoors.
Viewpoint and Playground: At the top of the field by the animal enclosure, there’s a panoramic view over London – you can spot the Shard and other skyline features. It’s a nice photo spot (especially sunset). And near the parking lot, there’s a excellent playground with distinct areas for toddlers and older kids, plus a sand pit. It’s free and open to the public, so a perfect way to let kids blow off steam after being (relatively) well-behaved inside the museum.

Getting There: The Horniman is in Forest Hill, South London. It’s easiest by train: take the Overground (orange line) or Southern Rail to Forest Hill station, then it’s an 8-10 minute walk up Dartmouth Road (slightly uphill). Alternatively, several buses stop right outside the museum (routes 176, 185, 197, 122 among others). If coming from central London, we often just hop the #176 bus from Waterloo or Trafalgar Square – it’s about 45 minutes but a scenic ride through south London neighborhoods, and drops you at the museum gate. By car, there’s a limited free parking on site. The area around is a leafy residential zone – safe and pleasant.

Amenities:

Food: The on-site Horniman Café is really nice – lots of sandwiches, hot meals, great cakes, and kids’ options (like lunch boxes). There’s indoor and outdoor seating. On sunny weekends, an additional kiosk opens by the bandstand selling ice creams and snacks. Prices aren’t too bad, and the quality is good (often locally sourced stuff). That said, the gardens are made for picnics. We often pack a lunch and eat on the grass – plenty of space and benches.
Facilities: All the usuals – toilets with changing tables (in multiple spots), lifts connecting all floors (the museum is mostly one big building), a cloakroom for coats, and even a quiet breastfeeding room if needed. It’s very accessible.
Stroller note: The museum allows strollers and there’s space to park them if needed. Gardens have paths for buggies. Might be a bit hilly in parts but manageable.
Gift Shop: One of my favorite museum shops in London. It has a delightful range of quirky gifts – from build-your-own insect kits to world music instruments (we got a thumb piano and a mini djembe drum for the kids last visit). There are also plenty of pocket-money items – marbles, stickers, etc., as well as books and fair-trade crafts. And of course, lots of walrus-themed merch! T-shirts, magnets, even a cuddly walrus toy. We couldn’t resist a small one, now affectionately named “Wally” at home.

Events: The Horniman hosts fantastic family events year-round. For instance, “Horniman Farmers Market” every Sunday in the gardens offers yummy food stalls (and often live music). They do seasonal festivals like an Easter Fair, Halloween “Halloween Fair” with costume parades, and a brilliant Christmas market with Santa’s Grotto. In summer, they’ve started an event called “Horniman Gardens Summer Festival” with family-friendly concerts and theatre. Check their calendar – if something coincides with your visit, it’s a bonus reason to go. We once timed a trip with their “Big Fish Little Fish” family rave (yes, that’s a thing – a daytime dance party for kids and parents with live DJs in the garden). It was hilariously fun watching toddlers and grownups bust a move together. They also run regular storytelling and hands-on workshops in the Hands On Base (a dedicated education space) – often free. When we visited during half-term, we dropped into a “Mask Making” craft session where kids made animal masks to take home.

One unique offering: the Horniman occasionally has sleepovers in the museum for kids (called “Night at the Museum” events). Imagine sleeping next to that walrus! They’re aimed at school groups or special ticketed events for 7-11 year olds with an accompanying adult. If you’re local or planning an extended stay, it’s worth looking into.

Finally, make sure to stroll through the Nature Trail – it’s actually London’s oldest nature trail, winding through a section of the Horniman Gardens (open during daylight). It feels like a little woodland in the city. We hunt for fairy houses and interesting bugs there. Combine that with the museum and you’ve got a full day of indoor-outdoor fun.

The Wallace Collection

Why It’s Great for Families: The Wallace Collection is an art and arms museum set in a gorgeous London townhouse – perhaps not the obvious choice for kids compared to dinosaurs or buses. But here’s the secret: armor and swords! The Wallace has one of the finest collections of suits of armor, medieval weapons, and gleaming swords and shields, displayed in an awesome gallery that captivates children (especially those into knights, castles, or fantasy). Beyond that, the museum is free, not too large (so it won’t exhaust them), and the sheer opulence of the rooms – with gold-framed paintings and chandeliers – makes it feel like exploring a mini palace. My kids felt like they’d stepped into Hogwarts or a fairy tale mansion. Plus, the Wallace Collection has really upped its family game with trails and occasional kids’ activities. It’s an easy win for an hour or two, and conveniently located just north of Oxford Street (so you can pair it with some playground time in Regent’s Park or shopping).

Hours & Tickets: Open daily 10:00–17:00. Free entry for everyone, no tickets required. It’s usually quiet on weekday mornings and picks up a bit on weekends midday (though never as crowded as big museums). They do free guided tours daily that you can join/drop as you wish – sometimes those are interesting for older kids if the guide is engaging (we had one who told the backstory of a duel portrayed in a painting and my kids were riveted).

Family Highlights:

Armoury Hall (Large Drawing Room): The star for kids: an entire hall filled with suits of armor for knights and horses, plus cases of historic swords, daggers, crossbows, and even early guns. It’s dazzling – helmets with visors that look like faces, ornate tournament armor engraved with lions and griffins, etc. Some pieces belonged to kings and have fascinating details (like Henry VIII’s armor – cue Holbein’s portrait reference, which older kids might know). My 6-year-old was especially taken by the miniature armor for a child on display – it belonged to a young prince, and it’s like a tiny knight’s suit, which made her imagine being a “kid knight.” We played “choose your weapon” where each child picked their favorite sword or lance and explained why – a fun way to interact with the exhibit. The room itself has armor displayed on horseback, which is dramatic and great for photos (no touching, of course). This arms and armor collection is one of the best in Europe, and for kids it’s like stepping into a medieval armory from their storybooks.
The Great Gallery: This is the Wallace’s famous painting gallery, recently refurbished and filled with natural light. It has big-name masterpieces (Rembrandts, Rubens, etc.). While high art can be tough for kids, the Wallace’s approach is to make it storytelling. They have a family audio guide (free via smartphone or borrow device) where a friendly narrator takes kids on an adventure through some paintings – think of it like a guided imagination game. My kids liked one painting of an enormous sea battle (by Bellotto) – we counted the ships and “cannons” firing. Another painting “The Swing” by Fragonard (famous pink frothy dress) sparked a talk about secret romances, since in the scene a suitor is hiding in the bushes; they found the hidden guy and thought it was amusing. If you ask at the desk, they often have a scavenger hunt sheet like “Can you find… a dog? a lady with a guitar? a monkey?” – the Wallace paintings have lots of playful little details to spot. For instance, there’s a portrait of a boy from the 1700s with his pet squirrel on a chain leash – kids usually go “Aww, and huh?!” at that.
Elegant Rooms and Furniture: One thing my daughter loved was pretending each lavish room was part of our mansion. The Wallace’s rooms are preserved in sumptuous 18th-century style – silk wallpaper, rococo furniture, giant mirrors. In the State Rooms, we pretended who would have which bedroom, where we’d dine, etc. It became a little imaginative role-play while we also glanced at the art. The fact that this was a real house (the mansion of the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace) and not too cavernous makes it relatable to kids as a domestic space – albeit a very grand one.
Porcelain and Treasures: The Wallace also has cases of glittering treasures – snuffboxes, jeweled daggers, porcelain animals. One case full of tiny gold boxes had my kids pressing their noses to the glass. We counted how many we could see with animals on them, making it a game. There’s also an Oriental Armoury cabinet with extremely cool Indo-Persian helmets that have face guards shaped like demon faces. Slightly creepy, but in a fascinating way.
Interactive Options: Occasionally on weekends, the Wallace Collection offers family studio sessions where kids can do crafts like make your own coat-of-arms shield or watercolor painting inspired by the collection. These are typically free drop-ins for certain ages. The museum’s website lists “Little Wallaces” or family days. We once joined a mini fencing demonstration for kids in the courtyard – short foam sabers, teaching basic parry moves, tying into the dueling swords theme of the museum. Highly memorable!

Getting There: The Wallace Collection is in Manchester Square, a quiet spot just 2 minutes walk from busy Oxford Street (near Selfridges). The closest Tube is Bond Street (Central/Jubilee Line, ~5 min walk). Also not far from Baker Street or Oxford Circus (~10 min). Many buses run along Oxford St and Marylebone Rd, both close by. We often combine a morning at the Wallace with a picnic or play in Regent’s Park (15 min walk north) or shopping around Oxford St. The museum entrance is via a pretty courtyard on Manchester Square.

Amenities:

Strollers: Allowed (elevators available to all floors), and they have a cloakroom for larger pushchairs if needed.
Bathrooms: On the lower ground floor – include baby changing, clean and accessible by lift.
Café: The Wallace has a gorgeous courtyard restaurant, covered by a glass roof. Having tea and cake here is a treat (you feel quite posh!). They do children’s menu items too. It’s on the pricier side (as expected for a fancy cafe), but even if you don’t eat a full meal, grabbing a juice and pastry here is nice. That said, with fidgety kids, you might opt for the many nearby casual eateries instead. There’s no dedicated kids’ eating area or anything, since it’s not a huge museum.
Gift Shop: Small but well-curated – lots of knight and princess themed goodies for kids. We bought a foam sword and a knight figurine last time, which fueled knightly battles back home. They also have cute art-inspired games and coloring books.

Nearby Family-Friendly Stops: If you need to bribe the kids for good behavior through an art museum, note that Hamleys – London’s most famous toy store – is about a 10-minute walk away on Regent Street. Just saying! Also, Madame Tussauds (wax museum) and the Sherlock Holmes Museum are not far (15 min walk to Baker Street) if you’re doing a Marylebone area day. For food, St. Christopher’s Place (just off Oxford St across from the Bond St station) has family-friendly eateries with outdoor seating – our faves are Pizza Express (classic pizza chain, very kid-friendly) and Crepes & Cones for dessert. Also, if you head toward Marylebone High Street (north of the Wallace), there’s a Paul Rothe & Son – an old-school deli where you can grab sandwiches to eat in Manchester Square gardens (a small public garden right next to the Wallace Collection mansion).

2025 Special Tidbits: The Wallace Collection often hosts temporary small exhibitions (free) that can be quite intriguing. In 2025, they have a focus on 18th-century French art (think fancy dresses and elegant court scenes) – they might do a family day where kids can try on period costumes or learn a minuet dance. Keep an eye on their events page. They’ve also done “Armour as Inspiration” workshops where kids design their own helmet out of craft materials. If you have a teen interested in art, the Wallace runs a Young Curators program too. It’s definitely a museum that, while old-school elegant, is trying to welcome a new generation.

In short, the Wallace Collection is a lesser-known gem that can pleasantly surprise families. We walked in for the armor and left with my kids debating which painting was the funniest (they vote for one of a monkey riding a goat – yes, that’s a thing, in the Tavern Scene by Jan Steen). It’s proof that sometimes smaller museums with unique collections can captivate children’s imaginations just as much as the big, famous ones.

Family-Friendly Hotels Near London’s Museums

After full days of museum-hopping, you’ll want a comfy home base where the kids (and you) can crash happily. London has dozens of family-friendly hotels; here are a few recommended options by area that are convenient to the museums above and beloved by families (with features like larger rooms or pools). Whether you’re looking for budget or luxury, these places roll out the red carpet for those with little ones:

Premier Inn London County Hall (South Bank) – Affordable, Unbeatable Location. This is a budget-friendly hotel literally next to the London Eye and a 10-minute walk from the Imperial War Museum and Westminster. Premier Inns are known for clean, no-frills comfort. Family rooms here have a double + two pull-out or sofa beds (kids under 16 stay free). They provide cots on request and the onsite restaurant does kids-eat-free breakfast. You’re also steps from the Sea Life Aquarium and Shrek’s Adventure – handy for evening fun. It’s not fancy, but the convenience and price are fantastic for families. (We’ve personally stayed here – it was quiet, beds were comfy, and you can’t beat waking up and strolling along the Thames in minutes).
The Ampersand Hotel (South Kensington) – Boutique Luxury for Museum Lovers. This stylish boutique hotel is right around the corner from the Natural History, Science, and V&A Museums – you can literally be at the museum doors in 2-3 minutes. It’s five-star but often has deals, and crucially, they have “Deluxe Studios” and interconnecting rooms perfect for families. The decor is science/museum-themed (our room had constellation patterns on the ceiling!). They do an adorable Science Afternoon Tea with planet-shaped cakes that kids adore. They also provide kids’ amenities like mini robes, cookies on arrival, and even game consoles or toys if you ask. South Ken tube is steps away, and you have dozens of eateries on your doorstep. It’s a spoil-yourself option but very family-welcoming.
Radisson Blu Edwardian Kenilworth (Bloomsbury) – Reliable Comfort Near the British Museum. A 5-minute walk from the British Museum, this 4-star hotel offers reasonably spacious family rooms and often has promotions where kids stay free in parents’ room. They’ll bring in extra beds or cribs as needed. The location is great for walking to Covent Garden, Soho, and multiple Tube lines. They offer a kids’ menu and the staff is known to be super accommodating to families (think free colouring sets at the restaurant). This is a solid mid-range choice for central London sightseeing – not flashy, but very comfortable with a handy location.
Park Plaza Westminster Bridge (South Bank) – Suite-style Rooms and a Pool. Directly across the river from Westminster (and about 15-20 min walk to Imperial War Museum), this modern hotel is a family hit because it has suite options – you can get a one-bedroom suite with a living room (and sofa bed) so the kids can have their own sleeping space. There’s also a 20-metre swimming pool – a rarity in London hotels – which is fabulous for a post-museum splash (kids allowed during certain hours). Views from many rooms are spectacular (Big Ben/London Eye). We know many families who love the breakfast buffet here – it’s extensive, with pancakes, pastries, the works (free for under-12s with adult). Being on the South Bank, you have the Jubilee Gardens playground and river walk right outside, perfect for evening strolls with ice cream.
Novotel London Tower Bridge (City of London) – Family-Friendly Chain with Kids’ Perks. If your museum plans include Docklands or you don’t mind a short Tube ride, this Novotel by the Tower of London is excellent. Novotel’s family policy lets 2 kids under 16 stay free with parents, and they often include free breakfast for kids. Rooms are modern and have handy sofa beds. There’s a kids’ corner in the lobby with Xbox and toys, which gives you a breather at check-in. Plus, the hotel is right by Tower Hill station – you can easily get to the Museum of London Docklands via DLR or to Westminster for other sites. Being next to the Tower of London also means a fun evening option of seeing the Crown Jewels or the nightly Ceremony of the Keys (if you plan ahead). As a bonus, lots of space around Tower Hill for a little evening runaround with views of Tower Bridge.

Each of these areas (South Bank, South Kensington, Bloomsbury, Westminster, City) has its own vibe, but all are relatively central and safe, with restaurants and shops nearby. Tip: Many London hotels do not automatically include breakfast in the rate – consider adding it, because hunting for a morning meal with hungry kids can be stressful. Alternatively, stock up on cereal bars and fruit (or hit a nearby café like Pret or Costa) for quick bites.

Also, consider serviced apartments or aparthotels if you want a kitchen – brands like Citadines, Staybridge, or Residence Inn have properties in Kensington, Tower Bridge, etc., where you get a kitchenette which is gold for families (fridge for milk, microwave for quick meals). One example: Citadines Trafalgar Square – walking distance to many sights, offering studios and one-bedroom apartments. We found having a fridge and microwave super helpful for our toddler’s snacks and milk.

Wherever you stay, London’s transport will connect you easily – so choose a hotel that fits your family’s needs and budget, and you’ll be set. Many of the above have family packages – e.g., including tickets to attractions or welcome packs for kids – so do ask when booking.

After long museum days, your hotel should be a cozy haven – and maybe even part of the adventure (my kids view hotel stays as exciting as the trip itself!). London’s family accommodations are generally very welcoming, so you’re in good hands.

Family-Friendly Nightlife and Evening Activities in London

London days are filled with museums and parks, but what about after dinner? The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down – there are plenty of family-friendly evening activities so you can make the most of every hour in this city. Here are some ideas for nightlife that’s suitable for kids (and enjoyable for parents too):

See a West End Musical or Show: London’s theatre scene has several productions perfect for kids (many with earlier evening or matinee performances). Top picks include “The Lion King” at the Lyceum Theatre – a magical staging of the Disney film with stunning costumes and songs kids know by heart. Also, “Matilda the Musical” (based on Roald Dahl’s book) is a hit with school-age children – it’s witty, fun, and has an empowering kid hero. Older kids (10+) might enjoy the spectacle of “Wicked”, the Wizard of Oz spin-off with its soaring tunes. Many theatres offer discounted family tickets or kids-go-free deals in August (during the “Kids Week” promotion). It’s wise to book in advance. Shows usually start around 7pm and end by 9:30-10pm. The experience of London’s West End – the glitz of the theatre, the souvenir stands (light-up wands at Wicked, anyone?), and the standing ovation at the end – often becomes a cherished memory. Pro tip: there’s typically an interval (intermission) for bathroom and snack breaks – ice cream tubs sold in the aisles are a British theatre tradition and a yummy treat.
Ride the London Eye at Night: The London Eye (giant Ferris wheel on the Thames) is open into the evening (usually until 8:30 or 9:00pm in summer). Taking a ride after dark is fantastic – the city lights up beneath you, and spotting landmarks at night feels almost more thrilling. The capsules are spacious and enclosed (safe for all ages, no scary open-air heights). It’s a 30-minute rotation. We did a 7:30pm ride and our kids were mesmerized pointing out Big Ben’s clock face glowing and the river shimmering. Winter bonus: during December the Eye area has festive lights and sometimes a Christmas market, making it extra special. (If the Eye is pricey for a big family, an alternative is the IFS Cloud Cable Car in East London – cheaper and shorter, but also gives a cool night view over the O2 and Docklands).
Take an Evening River Cruise: Several companies run early evening Thames sightseeing cruises (usually 40-60 minutes) where you can see London’s iconic landmarks illuminated. City Cruises has a 7pm tour that’s family-friendly, with commentary that isn’t too dry (some guides throw in jokes and fun facts). There’s also a Thames Clippers boat (Uber Boat) – more of a commuter ferry, but you can use it like a tour: for example, catch it around sunset from Westminster to Tower Bridge. Our kids loved sitting on the open deck as it whooshed under bridges. If you want to splurge, Bateaux London does a dinner cruise where kids are allowed, but honestly a simple sightseeing cruise does the trick and doesn’t tether you to a dining table. By day the river is great, but by night, passing the illuminated Houses of Parliament, St. Paul’s, and Tower Bridge is just awesome.
Covent Garden Street Performers: Covent Garden in the evening often has street entertainers – magicians, jugglers, living statues – especially on weekends. It’s free to watch (though tipping a pound or two if you stay through a whole act is courteous). Grab a dessert (Ben’s Cookies or Gelatorino nearby are great) and enjoy a mini “show” al fresco. My kids still talk about the fire-juggling unicyclist we saw there. Performances usually wrap up by 9pm. There’s often a crowd, but kids can usually wiggle to the front for a good view.
Family-Friendly London Pubs or Eateries: While actual “nightlife” like bars and late-night pubs aren’t for kids, there are some pubs that double as community restaurants where kids are welcome until a certain hour (usually 8 or 9pm). If you want a classic pub evening experience with the family, look for ones known as “gastropubs” (essentially pub-restaurants). The Churchill Arms in Kensington, for example, is beautifully decorated and serves Thai food – kids can be there until 8pm. The Prince Regent in Marylebone has board games and a kids’ menu. Alternatively, something like Rainforest Café (mentioned earlier, near Piccadilly Circus) can be a nighttime treat – it’s a restaurant designed like a jungle with animatronic elephants and periodic “thunderstorms”. It’s open late (until about 10pm) and while food is just okay and a bit pricey, the experience is thrilling for kids (mine were wide-eyed when the ‘thunder’ rolled and the gorillas started roaring). We timed a visit here after a matinee show, and it capped off the day with a roar – literally.
Sightseeing by Night: London looks totally different at night, and some attractions offer special evening entry. For instance, on certain dates the Tower of London has the Ceremony of the Keys (historic locking-up ritual) at 9:30pm – it’s free but you must book months in advance; older kids (I’d say 10+) who can stay quiet and appreciate history find it very cool. Another idea: take a night-time double-decker bus ride just for fun – route RV1 used to be great for sights, now you can do something like the #11 bus which goes past many landmarks lit up (hop on near Westminster around dusk). There are also guided ghost walks or Harry Potter evening walking tours if your kids are tweens/teens and into spookier or thematic fun – these typically start around 6 or 7pm and last 1.5 hours, taking you through atmospheric alleys with story-telling guides (we did a Harry Potter one where we saw filming locations by lantern-light – not scary and quite engaging).
London Museums Lates: A few museums have late-night openings weekly or monthly that allow all ages (though mainly geared to adults). For example, the Science Museum has occasional “Lates” (usually adult-themed content though), but the Natural History Museum does seasonal “Dino Snores for Kids” sleepovers where you spend the night in the museum under Hope the whale – an epic evening for ages 7-11 (with a parent) that includes a torch-lit trail and science show before lights out. These sell out quick but are a once-in-a-lifetime experience to brag about at school. The British Museum is open until 8:30pm on Fridays, so you could do an after-hours stroll through the mummies and marbles (with fewer crowds) and then treat the kids to a late dessert in the Great Court. It’s actually lovely to see the museums in a calmer, lamp-lit state.
Night Strolls with a Twist: Sometimes the simplest joy is just walking through London at night. Areas like Southbank are lively and safe in the evenings – you might catch buskers playing music under Hungerford Bridge or watch the illuminated carousel spin. Leicester Square often has street artists drawing caricatures (maybe get one of your family), and there are giant LED screens kids get mesmerized by. Piccadilly Circus’ neon billboards are London’s mini Times Square – a quick stop there usually elicits “woah!”. And if it’s not too late, Hamleys toy store in Regent Street is open till 9pm – roaming its 7 floors at night when it’s quieter can feel a bit magical (they sometimes even do bubble or snow showers inside for fun).
KidZania London (Late Sessions): If you have younger kids (4-12) with energy to spare, KidZania in Westfield London (Shepherd’s Bush) is an indoor role-play city where kids can try “jobs” and earn play money. They sometimes have “Twilight” tickets in the early evening at a discount. It closes by 8pm typically, so it’s not exactly nightlife, but it’s an evening activity option. Your child could be a firefighter, pilot, or chocolatier for a few hours – and you can relax in the parents’ lounge. We did a 4-8pm session once and our kids slept soundly after being pizza-makers and radio presenters all evening!
Seasonal Evening Fun: Depending on time of year, there are special evening events. Winter:
- Christmas Lights and Markets – London’s Xmas lights (Oxford Street, Regent Street, Covent Garden’s giant tree, etc.) are world-famous. Take an evening to walk or bus through them – the kids will be in awe. The Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is a massive fair with lights, rides, shows (open until 10pm, usually Nov-Jan) – very festive though can be crowded.
- Bonfire Night (around Nov 5) – many local parks host evening fireworks displays with bonfires; completely family-friendly but loud (ear defenders for littles recommended).
  Summer:
- Open-air Theatre or Cinema – Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre does family shows in evenings (bring a picnic). Luna Cinema screens outdoor movies (sometimes kid films) at dusk in royal parks.
- Late sunsets – in high summer it stays light until 9:30pm, so you might catch golden-hour views from places like Sky Garden or The Shard (they allow children – some friends took their kids up the Shard around 8pm and the kids loved the twinkling city as it got dark).

One thing to keep in mind: transport. The Tube and buses run until around midnight or later, so getting back to your hotel even after 10pm is generally easy and safe (and London at night in tourist areas is usually busy enough to feel secure, but of course stay aware). If your kids are asleep in the buggy, no worries – plenty of parents do the “sleeping child in stroller on the Tube at 10pm” thing after a big day out.

London transforms at night – it becomes a dazzling playground of lights, music, and perhaps a bit of magic. Whether you choose a spectacular show, a gentle river cruise, or just an illuminated wander with an ice cream in hand, you’ll be making memories under London’s evening sky. And hey, if all else fails and everyone’s knackered, there’s no shame in a movie night in the hotel – many family hotels have kids’ channels or you can stream something. Sometimes curling up together with a Paddington Bear movie and room-service hot chocolate can be the perfect cozy end to a thrilling London day.

London truly offers something for everyone, at any age. From the roar of the T. rex at the Natural History Museum to the whirr of a Tube train simulator at the Transport Museum; from ancient mummies to medieval armor, butterflies to double-deckers, this city’s museums are an endless playground of learning and fun. And best of all, so many are free, meaning you can pop in and out as your family’s whims dictate without pressure. As a parent, I found our London museum adventures not only entertained my kids, but also sparked their curiosity about history, science, and art in ways a textbook never could.

The key to a great museum day is pacing and variety – and with these top 10 museums, you can mix-and-match experiences (one day dinosaurs and rockets, another day armor and art, another with boats and walruses) to keep things fresh. Use the handy facilities (cafes, play areas, trails) highlighted above to give everyone breaks and let off steam. And don’t forget to leave time for serendipitous fun – a chase around a statue, a dress-up selfie, or a chat with a friendly museum volunteer can sometimes be the highlight of the day.

Finally, London in 2025 is as dynamic as ever – keep an eye on museum websites for special exhibits (we’ve mentioned many current ones) and family event calendars. There’s always something new popping up. But even without those, the standing collections are more than enough to fill a trip with wonder. I hope this travel blog helps you navigate and get excited about London’s museums and beyond. Seeing the smile on your child’s face as they come face-to-face with a blue whale, or solve a puzzle in an art gallery, or earn their “Underground driver license” at the Transport Museum – those moments are pure gold.

Enjoy your London adventure, treasure the family time, and above all, have fun making memories in one of the world’s most vibrant (and family-friendly) cities. Safe travels!

Top 10 London Museums You Can’t Miss (Free & Paid)

British Museum

Natural History Museum

Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)

Science Museum

Imperial War Museum London (IWM London)

Museum of London Docklands

Sir John Soane’s Museum

London Transport Museum

Horniman Museum and Gardens

The Wallace Collection

Family-Friendly Hotels Near London’s Museums

Family-Friendly Nightlife and Evening Activities in London

Family Feasts: Top 10 Restaurants to Delight Everyone (Westminster, the South Bank and Southwark)

Beyond the Big Hits: Top 10 More Amazing Family Finds! (Westminster, the South Bank and Southwark)

Top 10 Royal London Experiences Beyond Buckingham Palace

Hidden Gems: Unique Places to Eat & Drink in London

Unmissable Adventures: Top 10 Sights in Soho and the West End

Discover the Best Cultural Attractions in London

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British Museum

Natural History Museum

Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)

Science Museum

Imperial War Museum London (IWM London)

Museum of London Docklands

Sir John Soane’s Museum

London Transport Museum

Horniman Museum and Gardens

The Wallace Collection

Family-Friendly Hotels Near London’s Museums

Family-Friendly Nightlife and Evening Activities in London

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