Lifestyle

15+ Local things to do in Central London with family

Group of cousins having lunch together at Fitzrovia
Family & friends having lunch at Fitzrovia Quarter

Planning a family day out in Central London can feel like a juggling act – especially with kids, changing weather, and mixed ages in the group. But the city is packed with family-friendly activities that actually work for real families, not just travel brochures.

From free parks and educational attractions to low-cost cultural gems, here’s a tried-and-tested list of places locals go when they want to enjoy London with their family:

Free things to do with Families in Central London

Not everything in London comes with a price tag — some of the most memorable moments happen in places where entry is free, the paths are open, and the distractions are built in.

Jubilee Gardens

A stroller-friendly park right next to the London Eye, Jubilee Gardens has a spacious modern playground, splash zones, and views of the Thames. It’s perfect for letting kids burn energy while grown-ups grab coffee nearby.

 

Victoria Tower Gardens South

Tucked beside the Houses of Parliament, this peaceful green space features wide open lawns, a playground, and riverside benches. Ideal for London sightseeing with family who need a break from the crowds without losing the views.

The National Gallery

Surprisingly accessible for families, this iconic art gallery in Central London offers free entry, family trails, and drop-in activities. It’s a smart pick for kids aged 6+ who love sketching, colours, or a bit of “I spy” fun with old masters.

 

 

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Regent’s Park

With playgrounds, paddle boats, sports fields and picnic lawns, Regent’s Park is surely one of the best free things to do in Central London, where provides a full-day playground for all ages. It’s a favourite family day out destination for locals — even more so when paired with a trip to the nearby London Zoo.

Low-cost activities to do with your kids in Central London

Not everything worth doing in London needs to blow the budget. These picks are all under £35 per person (many even less), but offer high-impact experiences that are interactive, educational, or just plain fun. They’re especially good for school-age kids and families looking to make the most of a weekend or half-term adventure.

South Bank Cluster: London Eye, SEA LIFE & Shrek’s Adventure

This stretch of the South Bank is packed with family-friendly attractions within walking distance. The London Eye offers skyline views in under 30 minutes. SEA LIFE London is a hit with toddlers to tweens – stingrays, jellyfish, sharks and walk-through tanks. Shrek’s Adventure delivers a surprisingly theatrical, immersive experience with live actors, 4D effects and character meet-and-greets. Book a combo ticket to save, and arrive early to avoid queues.

 

 

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LEGO Store Leicester Square

  • Address: 3 Swiss Ct, London W1D 6AP
  • Opening hours:
  •   –  Mon–Sat 10 AM – 10 PM
  •   –  Sun 12 PM – 6 PM
  • Admission: Free to enter; activities and builds vary

This isn’t just a store — it’s an interactive LEGO experience where you can actually customer your mini “you” in LEGO! There’s a life-size London Tube train made from bricks, a Big Ben selfie spot, and build stations for kids. Best visited in the morning to avoid crowds. Combine it with nearby free attractions like Piccadilly Circus and Fitzrovia’s art museums.

London Transport Museum

  • Address: Covent Garden Piazza, London WC2E 7BB
  • Opening hours: Daily 10 AM – 6 PM
  • Admission: From £24.5 adult with concessions available (kids go free); From £20.00 for annual ticket valid for unlimited return for a year.

This museum is a hit with train-obsessed little ones and nostalgic adults alike. Exhibits are super hands-on – you can board old buses, pretend to drive a Tube, and explore historic vehicles. There’s also a dedicated play space for under-7s with soft mats and roleplay zones.

 

 

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The Postal Museum & Mail Rail Train

  • Address: 15-20 Phoenix Pl, London WC1X 0DA
  • Opening hours: Tue – Sun 10 AM – 5 PM
  • Admission: £18.5 per adult, £11 per child (includes Mail Rail ride), along with other ticket types included on their site.

Ride a tiny underground train through abandoned mail tunnels once used to carry letters under London. There’s also a brilliant Sorted! play area for under-9s — think slides, postie uniforms, delivery vans, and giant foam stamps. An unexpected but genuinely great interactive exhibit for children in London.

 

 

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The Cartoon Museum

  • Address: 63 Wells St, London W1A 3AE
  • Opening hours:
  •   –  Wed – Sat 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM
  •   –  Sun 12 PM – 4 PM
  • Admission:
  •   –  Adult: £12 adults
  •   –  Concession (over 60 y/o), Armed Forces Service Personnel (ex- and current): £8
  •   –  Student: £5
  •   –  Free for under-18s, ArtFund, London Pass, Members

From Beano and Manga to Marvel, The Cartoon Museum – situated in Fitzrovia Quarter – showcases British cartoon art and comics with fun, engaging exhibits. There are drawing tables for kids and workshops during school holidays. A great option near Oxford Circus that’s educational without feeling like school.

EXPLORE MORE: THINGS TO DO IN FITZROVIA

The Cartoon Museum

Discover Children’s Story Centre

  • Address: 383-387 High St, London E15 4QZ.
  • Opening hours: Daily 10 AM – 5 PM
  • Admission: From £10 per adult (cheaper to buy in groups, with concessions available)

A hidden gem just outside Central London (20 mins from Tottenham Court Road on the Central line), this centre is designed for kids aged 0–11. Indoor play is book-themed, with immersive installations based on classic children’s stories. There’s also a garden with sensory paths, play sculptures, and storytelling circles.

 

Stroller-friendly places to visit in Central London

If you’re out and about with a buggy, smooth paths, space to roam, and easy access make all the difference. These places have been chosen for their pram-friendly layouts, baby-changing facilities, and the kind of environments where both grown-ups and toddlers can feel at ease.

South Bank walkway (Directions): A flat, uninterrupted riverside path stretching from Tower Bridge to the London Eye. It’s ideal for long stroller walks with wide pavements, step-free access, and regular benches for breaks. You’ll also find playgrounds, riverside cafés, and plenty of visual interest to keep little ones entertained.

Kew Gardens (Directions): Spacious, quiet, and pram-perfect, Kew offers smooth paths, buggy-accessible glasshouses, and indoor galleries for rainy days. The Children’s Garden is purpose-built for under 12s, while the on-site cafés and toilets are family-ready. It’s one of London’s best options for stroller-friendly green spaces.

St James’s Park loop + café (Directions): A compact loop with wide, well-maintained paths around the lake, ducks to feed, and ice cream stands en route. The café has high chairs and shaded seating, while the park’s playground is a short roll away from Horse Guards Parade and Buckingham Palace — making it great for combining sightseeing with small kids.

Museum of London Docklands (Directions): A strong choice for rainy days or winter outings. The museum has full lift access, a soft play zone (Mudlarks) for under 5s, and baby-friendly toilets. Its riverside location near Canary Wharf also makes it a peaceful spot for a quiet stroll once you’re done exploring.

MORE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES IDEAS IN CENTRAL LONDON

 

 

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Teen-approved cool spots

Travelling with teens can be tricky – they’re too old for soft play but not always into galleries and history. These stops are fun without feeling childish, and already perfect for some group-friendly activities in Central London. Here are some genuinely cool additions to a family itinerary in Central London.

Daunt Books (Marylebone): Directions

A bookshop with serious atmosphere. Teens who love reading will appreciate the oak galleries, curated travel sections, and indie titles. It’s calm, inspiring, and close to Regent’s Park for a post-browse stroll.

Little Venice boat ride (to Camden)

Catch a canal boat between Little Venice and Camden Market. The ride’s slow pace is ideal for chatting or just zoning out, and you arrive right at one of London’s best-known hangout spots — full of street food and vintage stalls.

Eel Pie Island Museum: Directions

A quirky riverside micro-museum that dives into the island’s strange music history. Think punk, psychedelia, and a secret 1960s art scene. It’s small but memorable — ideal for music-obsessed teens and curious minds.

Seven Dials / Neal’s Yard: Directions to the vibrant Seven Dials market

An offbeat corner near Covent Garden, full of hidden alleyways, eco beauty brands, bubble tea, and colourfully painted facades. It’s a good mix of photo ops and relaxed browsing without the Oxford Street chaos.

 

 

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Paddington Bear statue & trail (Paddington Station): Directions

The statue itself is charming, but the trail adds an extra layer — especially if younger siblings are in tow. Teens might roll their eyes but secretly enjoy it. Combine it with a walk through nearby canals and cafés for balance.

Twist Museum: Directions

Interactive, illusion-based and very selfie-ready. Teens can explore rooms that play with perception and sound. It’s especially popular with groups of friends and works well as a teen birthday or weekend activity near Oxford Circus.

The Clink Prison Museum: Directions

Hidden near Borough Market, this gritty little museum explores real medieval prison life — torture devices, original cells, and all. It’s dark, dramatic, and surprisingly educational. Best for older teens who enjoy the grimmer side of history.

 

 

Big ticket treats for family in Central London

If you’re planning a special outing, birthday surprise, or just feel like making the day count, these are the wow-factor family experiences in Central London that are genuinely worth the higher price tag. They’re immersive, interactive, and guaranteed to leave an impression — especially with older kids or multigenerational groups.

Battersea Power Station & Lift 109

Take a glass elevator 109 metres up one of the iconic chimneys for panoramic views across London. The base station offers food markets, riverside restaurants, and shopping – making it a full-day family outing with options for every age group.

 

Sandbox VR

  • Address: The Post Building, High Holborn, London WC1A 1PB.
  • Opening hours:
  •   –  Mon – Fri 10 AM – 11:30 PM
  •   –  Sat 10 AM – 12 AM
  •   –  Sun 10 AM – 11 PM
  • Admission fee: From £50 – £65 per person, depending on the day of the week and location.

Located just off Tottenham Court Road, this team-based VR adventure puts you in full-body tracking suits for missions that range from space battles to zombie survival. Best for families with teens aged 13+ who love gaming or high-tech experiences.

 

 

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London Dungeon

  • Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, SE1 7PB
  • Opening hours:
  •   –  Mon – Wed, Fri: 10 AM – 5 PM
  •   –  Thur 11 AM – 5 PM
  •   –  Sat 10 AM – 6 PM
  •   –  Sun 10 AM – 4 PM
  • Admission fee: From £29 per adult and £23.50 per child (5-15- years) (discounts for groups/family tickets and for online purchases)

More theatrical than terrifying, this immersive walk-through attraction explores London’s darker history — with actors, sets, special effects, and the infamous drop ride. Suitable for older kids (10+) and parents who don’t mind a few jump scares along the way.

 

 

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Foodie spots that your kids will love

Finding a place that works for both kids and adults can be tricky — especially in Central London, where menus lean either too grown-up or too basic. These family-friendly restaurants near Covent Garden and Oxford Street strike the right balance with approachable menus, lively atmospheres, and enough space (and patience) for younger diners.

Wahaca Covent Garden

  • Address: 66 Chandos Pl, London WC2N 4HG
  • Opening hours: Mon–Sat 12 PM – 10 PM, Thur – Sat 12 PM – 11 PM, Sun 12 PM – 9 PM
  • Why is it kid-friendly: Colourful interiors, quick service, and build-your-own tacos make this spot ideal for younger diners. Staff are accommodating, and the energy is fun without being overwhelming.
  • Must-try item: Tapas, Hibiscus-glazed aubergine tacos.

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Bill’s Covent Garden Restaurant

  • Address: St Martin’s Courtyard, Slingsby Pl, London WC2E 9AB
  • Opening hours:
  •   –  Mon – Thur, Sat : 8 AM – 10 PM
  •   –  Fri 8 AM – 11 PM
  •   –  Sun 8 AM – 9:30 PM
  • Why is it kid-friendly: The kid-friendly menu includes pasta, fresh juice, and traditional breakfast. They offer high chairs and activity sheets, making it easy to dine with toddlers or fussy eaters.
  • Must-try item: Pancakes, fresh pasta.

 

 

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Heddon Street Kitchen

  • Address: 3–9 Heddon St, London W1B 4BE
  • Opening hours:
    •   –  Mon – Wed 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
    •   –  Thur 11:30 AM – 10 PM
    •   –  Sat 11:30 AM – 10:30 PM
    •   –  Sun 11:30 AM – 8 PM
  • Why is it kid-friendly: Designed with families in mind, it features a children’s menu inspired by Gordon Ramsay’s own kids. Spacious seating and friendly service help make it a relaxed family-friendly restaurant in Central London.
  • Must-try item: Fish & chips, Sticky toffee pudding clotted cream, Ice cream bar.

 

Places to visit if you’re looking for a place to hide in rainy days

When the weather turns, you don’t need to cut the day short — Central London is packed with weatherproof places that are warm, dry, and genuinely entertaining for kids and grown-ups alike. These aren’t just backups — they’re some of the best indoor activities for families in London.

Science Museum (Directions): Hands-on galleries, interactive tech zones, space exploration exhibits, and a brilliant basement play area for under-6s. The Wonderlab gallery (additional ticket) adds live experiments and science shows to the mix. Spacious and always busy — but for good reason.

Hamleys / LEGO Store + nearby Piccadilly Arcade (Directions): When in doubt, head for toys. Hamleys ( one of the best stores to visit on Regent Street) spans seven floors of demos, magic tricks, and chaos that kids love. Pair it with the nearby LEGO Store for hands-on builds, and escape to Piccadilly Arcade for a more relaxed stroll under cover.

Monopoly Lifesized (Directions): This immersive board game experience puts players in a physical game set, solving puzzles and challenges to buy property and win. Great for families with older kids (ages 9+).

Natural History Museum (Directions): From the giant blue whale to the earthquake simulator and dinosaur gallery, this free museum offers hours of indoor discovery. There are baby-changing facilities, cafés, and plenty of seating throughout.

Young V&A (Directions): Located in Bethnal Green that is a short ride from city centre, this children museum offers you interactive exhibits, dressing-up corners, design stations, and story-themed rooms for under-14s here.

 

 

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Magic, fantasy and story worlds

For kids (and grown-ups) who love getting lost in their imagination, Central London is full of places that bring books, films, and magical stories to life. These aren’t your average museums – they’re immersive, nostalgic, and often interactive.

Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾ (King’s Cross): Directions

Part photo op, part merch heaven, this stop inside King’s Cross station lets you pose with a trolley going “through the wall” and browse wands, robes, and Butterbeer gifts. It’s free to enter — just expect a queue for photos.

House of MinaLima (Soho): Directions

A charming little gallery-shop by the graphic design duo behind the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films. It showcases original props, concept art, and print editions — and it’s totally free. A great drop-in spot if you’re wandering Soho with curious kids.

Waterstones Piccadilly: Directions

More than just a bookshop, this enormous flagship store features six floors of books, a fantastic kids’ section, and space to read or browse at your own pace. A lifesaver on rainy days or during slow afternoons near Piccadilly Circus.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour – Leavesden: Directions

Not technically Central London, but worth the short train ride. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is a full-scale experience — Diagon Alley, the Hogwarts Express, the Forbidden Forest – plus interactive green screen spots and seasonal sets. Pre-booking is essential, and allow half a day minimum.

 

If you’ve already done the big sights… try these nearby finds

Once you’ve ticked off the big-ticket attractions, it’s worth slowing down and exploring the places locals actually enjoy — especially around Fitzrovia, one of Central London’s most walkable and family-welcoming neighbourhoods. Here are a few gentle detours just off the usual path:

Mom-and-daughter self-care day at Wumman Spa

Drop Wumman Spa a visit. A quiet, modern wellness space that welcomes all generations. Book massages, facials, or a calming break between activities. Ideal for teens or mums who deserve a breather.

Try a kid-welcoming café at Kaffeine

Known for excellent coffee, friendly staff, and laid-back seating, Kaffeine Great Titchfield St or Eastcastle St  is a popular stop for parents and prams alike. A good spot for snacks and refuelling near Charlotte Street, just under-1-mile radius.

 

Take a cooking class at Cookery School

Suited for older kids and teens, these hands-on workshops teach baking, pasta-making, or global cuisine. The Cookery School surely gives your family a rewarding way to bond – and eat well at the end.

Need more ideas for your family day out in Central London?

Shopping on Oxford Street

Make it more enjoyable by picking one or two flagship stores (like the LEGO Store or John Lewis) to shop on Oxford Street, rather than tackling it all at once. It’s stroller-accessible and often has family facilities inside the bigger shops.

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Fitzrovia quarter