8-Day Family London Itinerary: May 24–31, 2026 — Tube Tips, Budget Eats, Stonehenge & Harry Potter

Finchley Central / Regents Park Road (North London) · Sunday, May 24, 2026

Arrival, check-in and a relaxed afternoon in North London

6:30 AM:

Start with a light breakfast pickup at The Larder (local cafe) - grab pastries, fresh coffee and fruit to eat en route to Heathrow or while waiting for luggage processing.

7:30 AM:

Clear immigration and collect luggage at Heathrow Airport (LHR); use this time to purchase Visitor Oyster cards or top up contactless payment for Tube travel.

8:30 AM:

If energy allows, take a quick tour of the Heathrow Airport shops and dining concourse for snacks and duty-free essentials before leaving the terminal area.

9:00 AM:

Catch the Elizabeth Line or arrange a pre-booked taxi from Heathrow into London; aim for a smooth journey toward Paddington/Bond Street with luggage for a direct transfer to your Airbnb area.

10:30 AM:

Arrive near central London - if you used the Elizabeth Line, consider a short break and restroom stop at Bond Street station or Paddington before the final leg to Finchley; have a light snack if needed.

11:00 AM:

Take a taxi or Tube toward Finchley Central Station; if choosing Tube, use the Elizabeth/Central/Victoria/Northern connections as planned and keep Oyster/contactless ready for easy fares.

12:00 PM:

Arrive at 287 Regents Park Road area to drop off any early luggage (if host allows) or find a nearby cafe - The Deli on Regents Park Road is a good place to rest before official check-in.

1:00 PM:

Have an early budget-friendly lunch at Franco Manca or Honest Burgers near Finchley Central to fuel up before your 2:00 PM AirBnB check-in.

2:00 PM:

Check in at 287 Regents Park Road and drop bags; take a few minutes to freshen up and unpack so the family can head out comfortably for a short stroll.

2:30 PM:

Walk to nearby Regent's Park for a relaxed wander-visit the formal gardens and the children's playground so the 13-year-old can stretch their legs after the flight.

3:30 PM:

Grab a light snack or coffee at The Larder (local cafe) or The Deli on Regents Park Road and plan the rest of the afternoon while enjoying a sit-down.

4:00 PM:

Take the Tube from Finchley Central Station (Northern line) toward Camden Town for a quick look at the market stalls and quirky shops-great for teens and a short introduction to London's market culture.

5:15 PM:

Return toward the neighbourhood and stop for an early casual dinner at Franco Manca or Honest Burgers, both offering family-friendly meals within your budget of under $30 per person.

6:30 PM:

After dinner, enjoy a gentle evening walk along Finchley High Road to browse local shops or pick up groceries for the week at a nearby supermarket such as Sainsbury's Local.

7:15 PM:

Back at 287 Regents Park Road, unwind with a family movie or board game night-use this time to review Tube maps and plan tomorrow's route into central London using Oyster/contactless.

9:00 PM:

Prepare for bed and set alarms for tomorrow; plug phone chargers in, confirm any booked tickets in your email, and leave transit directions to Finchley Central Station by the door for an easy morning start.

7:30 PM:

Walk a short distance to The Old White Lion or The Bull & Last for a relaxed pub atmosphere and classic British pub food under $30 per person; order a kids' or small plate if anyone wants a lighter option.

8:30 PM:

Take a gentle post-dinner stroll through Regent's Park (evening light is lovely) or along Finchley High Road to window-shop and soak up the neighbourhood vibe.

9:45 PM:

Return to 287 Regents Park Road to unpack any remaining items, set up Oyster/contactless cards by the door, and briefly review tomorrow's Tube route using the TfL app.

10:15 PM:

Family wind-down: light reading, a short family chat about the week's highlights, then prepare phones and cameras for tomorrow; leave travel documents and tickets in a single folder by the front door.

10:45 PM:

Lights out or quiet time-ensure everyone has alarms set and a small nightlight if needed; get a good rest for a busy first full day in London.

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Central London (Bloomsbury, Covent Garden, Leicester Square) · Monday, May 25, 2026

Full day exploring central London: British Museum, Covent Garden and West End

8:00 AM:

Breakfast near Bloomsbury at The CoffeeWorks Project (Bloomsbury) - grab pastries, specialty coffee and a light start before the museum; seating is limited so aim to arrive early.

8:45 AM:

Walk to The British Museum and pick up a free highlights map at the information desk to plan which galleries (Rosetta Stone, Parthenon Sculptures) to visit first.

9:00 AM:

Enter The British Museum at opening and join a free 60-90 minute highlights tour or follow the family-friendly trail to see the must-see artifacts with audio-guide options for teens.

10:30 AM:

Coffee break at The Great Court Restaurant inside the museum or pop to Tea & Tattle nearby for quick snacks and to review the next stop in Covent Garden.

11:00 AM:

Leisurely stroll from The British Museum to Covent Garden (about 10-15 minutes) via Russell Square and Long Acre, enjoying street performers and window-shopping en route.

11:30 AM:

Arrive in Covent Garden: explore the Apple Market stalls, watch the plaza entertainers, and check out family-friendly shops like M&M's World and The LEGO Store for a teen-friendly pause.

12:30 PM:

Lunch at Homeslice Covent Garden for large, shareable pizzas (affordable and teen-friendly) and a relaxed break before more sightseeing.

1:15 PM:

Wander the stalls at Seven Dials Market and pop into independent shops around Neal's Yard for colorful photos and quick snacks or gelato.

2:00 PM:

Short walk to The National Gallery at Trafalgar Square and pick up a family highlights trail to see Van Gogh and Turner in 60-90 minutes.

3:30 PM:

Take a coffee break at Notes Coffee Roasters & Bar on St Martin's Lane or grab pastries at Patisserie Valerie while the family rests and checks photos.

4:00 PM:

Explore Leicester Square's arcades and the M&M's World flagship (if not already visited) or catch street performers; teens often enjoy the nearby electric go-kart VR or arcade options.

5:00 PM:

Head toward the West End and browse shops along Charing Cross Road, stopping at Foyles Bookshop for a quick browse of travel and YA fiction picks for the 13-year-old and 18-year-old.

6:00 PM:

Early dinner at Dishoom Covent Garden for family-style Indian dishes within your budget if you arrive early, or choose Franco Manca for lighter, budget-friendly pizza before an evening in the West End.

6:30 PM:

After dinner, take a short stroll to Trafalgar Square to see the fountains and the evening light on The National Gallery façade; great for family photos and a calm post-meal walk.

7:00 PM:

Drop into Leicester Square to soak up the West End atmosphere; teens can browse the arcades or visit M&M's World for a quick fun treat while adults enjoy the street performers.

7:30 PM:

If the family wants a sweet stop, head to Caffè Nero (Charing Cross Road) or Patisserie Valerie for coffee, hot chocolate or pastries and a chance to rest before heading home.

8:00 PM:

Catch the Northern line at Leicester Square or Tottenham Court Road back toward Finchley Central (change at King's Cross St. Pancras as needed); aim for a relaxed Tube journey during off-peak evening hours.

8:45 PM:

If energy remains, stop off near Camden Town for an evening walk along Regent's Canal (a peaceful, scenic route) before the final leg home, otherwise continue the Tube toward Finchley Central.

9:30 PM:

Back at 287 Regents Park Road, enjoy a low-key family debrief - share photos, charge devices, and plan the next day's Tube routes using the TfL app while kids wind down.

10:15 PM:

Prepare for bed; leave Oyster/contactless cards and printed Tube directions by the door, and set alarms for the next day's schedule so the family can rest well.

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Stonehenge → Cotswolds (Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, Lower Slaughter, Stow-on-the-Wold) → Return to London · Tuesday, May 26, 2026

Stonehenge and the Cotswolds by rented car (full day)

8:00 AM:

Depart the Airbnb and pick up the rental car; confirm navigation set for Stonehenge and grab coffee-to-go and pastries from Prêt à Manger or Greggs for the drive.

10:00 AM:

Arrive at the English Heritage Visitor Centre (Stonehenge), collect pre-booked tickets, use the exhibition galleries, and catch the shuttle to the stone circle ready for your planned 90-minute visit.

11:30 AM:

Finish the Stonehenge walk and spend a few minutes at the Stonehenge Shop & Café for restroom stops and quick refreshments before setting GPS toward the Cotswolds village of Bibury.

12:30 PM:

Drive into Bibury and stroll the iconic Arlington Row cottages; stop for photos and a light pub lunch or tea at The Swan Hotel if the family wants a traditional Cotswold bite.

12:45 PM:

Walk from Arlington Row toward the River Coln and enjoy the classic Cotswold scenery; stop for photos and a quick cream tea at Swan Hotel Tearoom if you want scones and tea.

1:30 PM:

Drive to Bourton-on-the-Water (about 20-30 min) and stroll the low bridges and stone streets, visiting the Model Village for a fun, teen-friendly miniature overview of the town.

2:15 PM:

Grab a late lunch or light bite at The Rose Tree Restaurant or fish & chips at Bakery on the Water (both offer meals within your budget) while watching the ducks by the river.

3:00 PM:

Short drive (5-10 min) to Lower Slaughter for a peaceful riverside walk along the scenic mill stream and a visit to Lower Slaughter Mill for photos and a quick look at the historic building.

3:45 PM:

Head toward Stow-on-the-Wold (about 15-25 min) and park near the Market Square to browse antique shops, cosy bookshops, and the atmospheric The Old Butchers cafe for a snack or coffee.

4:30 PM:

Enjoy a late-afternoon wander around Stow's Market Square, popping into independent shops and taking in the hilltop views; consider a short pub stop at Ebrington Arms for local ales or soft drinks.

5:15 PM:

Begin the drive back toward London, aiming to leave the Cotswolds with time for traffic-stop for fuel or a quick restroom break at a service station en route.

8:00 PM:

Estimated arrival back near Finchley Central / 287 Regents Park Road depending on traffic; unwind with a casual dinner at Honest Burgers or pick up takeaway from Franco Manca if everyone prefers something quick and familiar.

5:45 PM:

Stop for fuel and restroom break at a motorway service-try the Gloucester Services (modern, family-friendly) to stretch legs and pick up snacks or sandwiches for the drive back to London.

7:00 PM:

If running ahead of schedule, detour for a casual dinner at The Bell at Sapperton (classic Cotswold pub near Stow-on-the-Wold) for pies and kid-friendly mains under £20 each; otherwise, opt for a motorway diner en route.

8:30 PM:

Drive through the evening toward London, using the A40/M4 route; swap drivers, play a travel playlist, and enjoy countryside views as you head back to Finchley Central.

10:15 PM:

Estimated arrival at 287 Regents Park Road; unload luggage, take a quick walk to the local shop like Sainsbury's Local for bottled water or a late snack, and freshen up after the long day.

10:45 PM:

Wind down with a low-key family debrief in the living room-share photos from Arlington Row and Bourton-on-the-Water, charge devices, and confirm plans for returning the rental car tomorrow if needed.

11:15 PM:

Set out wet clothes to dry if needed, prepare tomorrow's Tube directions on the TfL app, and place passports/tickets in a single safe spot by the door for easy access.

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Leavesden (Warner Bros) → Marylebone → Victoria Palace Theatre (West End) · Wednesday, May 27, 2026

Warner Bros. Studio Tour (the Making of Harry Potter) and West End evening

6:30 AM:

Quick breakfast and coffee at The Larder near the Airbnb to fuel the drive - grab pastries, sandwiches and bottled water to take on the road.

7:00 AM:

Final car-check and load luggage into the rental; confirm directions to Warner Bros. Studio Tour and ensure tickets and driving permit/passport are accessible.

7:15 AM:

Depart 287 Regents Park Road and head toward Leavesden; aim to avoid rush-hour congestion by taking the A41/M1 route as suggested by your GPS app (allow extra time for traffic).

8:45 AM:

Arrive at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour car park, use the restroom and collect any pre-booked audio guides at the reception desk before the 9:00 AM entry time.

9:00 AM:

Enter the Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter - begin exploring iconic sets like the Great Hall and Diagon Alley, following the recommended route on the map provided.

12:00 PM:

Finish the Warner Bros. Studio Tour by visiting the Backlot photo spots and the Studio Shop; pick up souvenirs and grab a quick lunch at the on-site Studio Café if anyone missed an earlier snack.

12:45 PM:

Depart the studio and drive toward Marylebone; plan a short coffee stop at The CoffeeWorks Project (Marylebone) or GAIL's Bakery to stretch legs and switch drivers if needed.

1:30 PM:

Return the rental car to Sixt - 158 Marylebone Road and confirm paperwork, then walk a short distance to explore Marylebone High Street - browse independent shops and visit Daunt Books for travel and YA picks.

2:15 PM:

Light afternoon visit to Regent's Park for a relaxed stroll or to rent a pedal boat on the Boating Lake (seasonal); this gives the family time to freshen up before the evening.

3:00 PM:

Grab an early casual pre-theatre bite at Franco Manca (Marylebone) or Honest Burgers (Marylebone High Street) - both offer meals under $30 per person and are quick for a family of four.

3:45 PM:

Return to the Airbnb or a nearby cafe to change into evening wear and collect theatre tickets; a short rest at Browns of Marylebone or a local coffee shop helps recharge before the show.

5:15 PM:

Head toward Victoria by taxi or Tube (from Baker Street take the Jubilee line to Victoria with a single change) and arrive early to explore the area around Victoria Palace Theatre and snap photos of the theatre exterior.

6:00 PM:

Enjoy an affordable pre-theatre dinner at Wasabi (Victoria), Pret a Manger, or Franco Manca (Victoria)-all family-friendly and under $30 per person, leaving time to reach the theatre relaxed.

7:00 PM:

Arrive at Victoria Palace Theatre, collect or present tickets, and use this time to visit the theatre bar and restroom before the 7:30 PM performance of Hamilton.

8:30 PM:

After the performance, take a short celebratory stroll and photos outside Victoria Palace Theatre and head toward Beggars' Belief or The Clarence for a post-show drink or non-alcoholic mocktail in a friendly pub atmosphere.

9:15 PM:

If the family wants a sweet treat, stop by Caffè Nero (Victoria) or pick up gelato at Amorino near Victoria for a relaxed sit-down and to compare favourite moments from Hamilton.

9:45 PM:

Catch a taxi or take the Tube from Victoria Station (Victoria line northbound to Euston then Northern line as needed) back toward Finchley Central; taxis may be quicker with tired teens and theater bags.

10:30 PM:

Arrive back at 287 Regents Park Road, unpack any theatre souvenirs, set out tomorrow's clothes, and charge devices; have a light snack from Sainsbury's Local if anyone is peckish before bed.

11:00 PM:

Family wind-down: share photos from the day, update the trip journal with highlights from Warner Bros. Studio Tour and Hamilton, then prepare Oyster/contactless cards and tickets for the next day's plans.

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Central London → Camden · Thursday, May 28, 2026

Harry Potter locations walking tour and Camden Market afternoon

7:30 AM:

Grab a quick breakfast at The Larder near the Airbnb-order pastries, coffee and sandwiches to-go to fuel the walking tour.

8:15 AM:

Take the Northern line from Finchley Central to King's Cross St. Pancras; arrive early to visit the Platform 9¾ photo spot and the shop before the crowds.

9:00 AM:

Begin the guided or self-guided Harry Potter walk at King's Cross, then head toward Leadenhall Market (Diagon Alley inspiration) to admire the covered market architecture and take photos.

10:00 AM:

Continue the route across the Millennium Bridge for the films' skyline shot, pause for photos and enjoy river views toward St. Paul's Cathedral from the bridge.

10:30 AM:

Stop for a mid-morning refreshment at Monmouth Coffee Company in Borough Market (or a nearby café) and sample pastries while the family compares favourite film locations so far.

11:00 AM:

Explore the Borough Market edges where filming inspired food scenes-browse stalls for a light snack or souvenir before heading north toward Camden for the afternoon.

12:30 PM:

Have a relaxed budget-friendly lunch at Borough Market-try a pie from The Ginger Pig or raclette from Androuet while seated near the market stalls and people-watching.

1:15 PM:

Catch the Northern line from London Bridge to Camden Town, then walk into Camden Market to explore the Stables Market, vintage stalls, and quirky boutiques for souvenirs and teen-friendly finds.

1:45 PM:

Sample street-food at Camden Lock Market-options like falafel at Red Dog Saloon or Korean pancakes at Kimchi Cult keep meals under your £30/person target.

2:30 PM:

Stroll along Regent's Canal toward Camden Lock and snap photos of the colourful barge houses and canal boats; consider renting a family pedal boat if available near the canal for a short scenic float.

3:15 PM:

Visit the alternative shops on Camden High Street-pop into Cyberdog for futuristic fashion or Rising Sun Arts Centre for independent crafts that appeal to teens.

3:45 PM:

Take a short walk up to Primrose Hill for panoramic views of London skyline and a peaceful break from the market bustle-great spot for family photos as the sun begins to lower.

4:30 PM:

Coffee and a sweet treat at Gail's Bakery (Primrose Hill) or The Coffee Jar in Camden to regroup and review photos; teens can pick a pastry while adults relax with a brewed coffee.

5:00 PM:

Return to Finchley Central via the Northern line (Camden Town → Finchley Central with one change at King's Cross if needed), giving the family time to freshen up before evening plans.

5:30 PM:

Take a relaxed stroll from Primrose Hill down toward Regent's Park, stopping for photos of the skyline and letting the 13-year-old stretch legs while teens compare favourite market finds.

6:00 PM:

Have an early budget-friendly dinner at Poppies Fish & Chips (Camden) or The Stable (Camden Lock) for casual pizzas and pies-both offer filling meals under £20 per person.

6:45 PM:

Browse the evening stalls at Camden Lock Market while many vendors stay open later; hunt for unique souvenirs, vinyl records, or street-art prints that teens often love.

7:30 PM:

Catch a twilight canal boat from Camden Lock toward Little Venice (seasonal operators) or enjoy a peaceful waterside walk along Regent's Canal, a quieter way to see London as lights come on.

8:15 PM:

Stop for dessert and coffee at Chinwag Cakes & Coffee or Gail's Bakery (Camden)-pick pastries or gelato while the family reviews photos and favourites from the day's Harry Potter sites.

8:45 PM:

Head to Camden Town station and take the Northern line back toward Finchley Central, giving everyone time to rest on the train and prepare for the next day's plans.

9:30 PM:

Back at the Airbnb, unpack any market purchases and lay out tomorrow's clothing; enjoy a short family debrief in the living room and charge devices for the following day's museum visits.

10:00 PM:

Wind down with a quiet activity: read a few pages from a Harry Potter book together or watch a short film clip, then set alarms and place Oyster/contactless cards by the door for an easy morning departure.

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Westminster → South Bank · Friday, May 29, 2026

Buckingham Palace, Changing of the Guard, Westminster and South Bank

7:30 AM:

Breakfast at The Larder near the Airbnb or grab a takeaway from GAIL's Bakery to eat on the Tube en route to central London.

8:30 AM:

Take the Northern line from Finchley Central toward central London, aiming to arrive near Green Park or Victoria in time for the morning crowds.

9:15 AM:

Arrive at Buckingham Palace-stroll the forecourt and the gardens' edge, get family photos with the palace backdrop, and find a good vantage point for the Changing of the Guard.

10:15 AM:

If the Changing of the Guard is scheduled, secure a viewing spot near The Queen Victoria Memorial; if not, walk through St. James's Park toward Westminster for riverside views and photo stops.

11:00 AM:

Walk from St. James's Park to Parliament Square to admire the exterior of Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, pausing for photos of Big Ben and the Thames.

12:00 PM:

Lunch at The Red Lion (a traditional pub near Westminster) or grab budget-friendly sandwiches and salads from Pret a Manger nearby; sit outside if the weather is good and enjoy views of passing Parliament staff.

1:00 PM:

Self-guided visit to Westminster Abbey (exterior or paid interior tour) - if you choose to go inside, allow about 60-75 minutes to see the Nave, Coronation Chair and Poet's Corner.

2:30 PM:

Cross Westminster Bridge and stroll the South Bank riverside toward the London Eye, stopping for photos of the Houses of Parliament and enjoying street performers along the walkway.

3:15 PM:

Pop into the Tate Modern for a short highlights visit (main collection is free) or enjoy contemporary installations in 45-60 minutes; the family-friendly Turbine Hall is often engaging for teens.

4:15 PM:

Tea or a snack break at Southbank Centre Kitchen or Festival Terrace Café with views over the Thames - pick up pastries or a light sandwich to stay within the budget.

4:45 PM:

Walk east along the South Bank toward Shakespeare's Globe for exterior photos and a quick look at the Bankside area; consider a brief guided tour of the Globe if time and interest allow (~60 minutes, ticketed).

5:30 PM:

Visit Borough Market (if some stalls are still open) for late afternoon browsing, or head back toward Waterloo and ride the London Eye (optional timed tickets) for a sunset view of the city skyline.

6:30 PM:

Dinner at Wahaca Southbank for Mexican street-food style plates or Giraffe at County Hall for family-friendly mains, both offering options under £25 per person and a relaxed atmosphere before heading home.

7:30 PM:

Leisurely return along the Thames toward Westminster; pause on Millennium Bridge for evening photos of St. Paul's Cathedral lit up and let the family soak up the riverside ambiance before taking the Tube home.

8:00 PM:

Dine at Wahaca Southbank or Giraffe at County Hall for a family-friendly meal under £25 per person; both offer quick service and lively evening ambience near the river.

8:45 PM:

Walk to the Southbank promenade and stop for dessert at Skylon Bar & Restaurant (for a treat) or pick up pastries and coffee at Southbank Centre Kitchen to enjoy on a bench overlooking the Thames.

9:15 PM:

Pause on Millennium Bridge for night photos of St. Paul's Cathedral, then wander back toward Waterloo Bridge for different skyline views as lights reflect on the river.

9:45 PM:

If the family is up for a short cultural stop, pop into the late galleries at Tate Modern's Turbine Hall entrance area for a quick contemporary-art peek; otherwise find a riverside spot to relax and people-watch.

10:15 PM:

Head toward Waterloo or Embankment stations and catch the Tube back to Finchley Central, or take a taxi from the South Bank for a more direct, quieter trip home after a full day.

10:45 PM:

Back at 287 Regents Park Road, enjoy a light nightcap or fruit from Sainsbury's Local, review photos from the day, and set Oyster/contactless cards by the door for tomorrow.

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South Kensington / Hyde Park / Trafalgar Square · Saturday, May 30, 2026

Museums, Hyde Park and Markets: National Gallery, Natural History, and more

7:30 AM:

Breakfast at The Larder near the Airbnb for pastries and coffee to-go so the family can catch the Tube refreshed and on time.

8:15 AM:

Take the Northern line from Finchley Central toward central London and change to the Piccadilly line at King's Cross St. Pancras for a direct ride to South Kensington.

9:00 AM:

Arrive at South Kensington and enter the Natural History Museum to start with the dinosaur gallery and hands-on exhibits that are especially engaging for teens.

10:30 AM:

Coffee break at Comptoir Libanais (Exhibition Road) or GAIL's Bakery just outside the museums-grab a light snack while the family compares favourite exhibits so far.

10:50 AM:

Walk across Exhibition Road to the Victoria and Albert Museum for a quick highlights loop (design, fashion and the cast courts) if the family wants decorative arts after natural history.

11:30 AM:

Head into Hyde Park via the Cromwell Road/Hyde Park Corner route and stroll toward the Serpentine, with the option to rent a pedal boat or visit the Diana Memorial Playground for a short break.

12:00 PM:

Lunch at The Orange (Kensington High Street) or Comptoir Libanais for fresh, budget-friendly plates; both are family-friendly and keep meals under £20 per person.

12:45 PM:

Stroll through Hyde Park toward the Serpentine and enjoy a relaxing break on the grass or rent a pedal boat from the Serpentine Boathouse for a short family boating session (seasonal).

1:30 PM:

Walk or short bus/tube to Trafalgar Square and pick up the family trail map at the National Gallery for a 60-90 minute highlights tour focused on Van Gogh and Turner.

3:00 PM:

Take a coffee and cake break at Caffè Nero (Trafalgar Square) or Pret a Manger nearby while the family reviews favourite artworks and recharges before more sightseeing.

3:30 PM:

If energy allows, visit the nearby National Portrait Gallery for quick, engaging galleries of British figures (allow 45-60 minutes) or browse the shops along Charing Cross Road.

4:30 PM:

Head toward Covent Garden for street performers and light shopping; pick up affordable dinner options at Homeslice or market stalls in Seven Dials Market if the family prefers to graze.

5:30 PM:

Cross over to Regent Street / Oxford Circus for a short browse of flagship stores and stop at Hamleys toy emporium for a fun visit the teens may enjoy for souvenirs and window displays.

6:15 PM:

Early dinner at Franco Manca (Soho) or Honest Burgers (Soho)-both provide filling, affordable meals under your $30/person budget and are a short walk from Trafalgar Square.

7:15 PM:

If the family still has energy, enjoy an evening walk through St. James's Park toward the palace area for sunset photos; otherwise return to Finchley Central via the Northern line for a relaxed evening at the Airbnb.

7:45 PM:

Stroll from Trafalgar Square toward Covent Garden and enjoy the street performers on the piazza while the family browses independent shops and stops for photos.

8:15 PM:

Have an early budget-friendly dinner at Franco Manca (Soho) or Honest Burgers (Soho) - both offer quick, filling meals under $30 per person and are a short walk from the gallery area.

9:00 PM:

If you prefer something sweet after dinner, pop into Caffè Nero (Charing Cross) or Patisserie Valerie for pastries and hot chocolate while reminiscing about the day's highlights.

9:30 PM:

Take a leisurely evening walk through St. James's Park toward Regent Street, enjoying the calm lakeside and early city lights - a peaceful wind-down that's great for family photos.

10:00 PM:

Head to Leicester Square for a final look at the West End atmosphere or catch the Northern line at Leicester Square back toward Finchley Central, giving everyone time to rest on the train.

10:45 PM:

Arrive back at 287 Regents Park Road; unpack any purchases, charge devices, and have a light snack from Sainsbury's Local before an early night.

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Finchley Central → Heathrow Airport · Sunday, May 31, 2026

Checkout and departure

6:00 AM:

Quick breakfast pickup at The Larder (near the Airbnb) - grab pastries, coffee and bottled water to eat en route while finalizing luggage and travel documents.

6:30 AM:

Final apartment check and bag closing at 287 Regents Park Road - confirm passports, boarding passes, and that all chargers and devices are packed in one carry bag.

6:45 AM:

Short walk to Finchley Central Station to drop any last items into day bags and take a final photo of the neighbourhood; return to the Airbnb for any forgotten items if needed.

7:00 AM:

Call or book your taxi/app-hire to Heathrow (recommend pre-booked private transfer or black cab) and load the car calmly, allowing time for traffic; taxis to Heathrow usually take 45-70 minutes from Finchley.

7:15 AM:

Depart 287 Regents Park Road by taxi or private transfer bound for Heathrow Airport (LHR); use this time to relax, confirm check-in via airline app, and double-check carry-on essentials.

8:00 AM:

Arrive at Heathrow Airport (LHR) - head straight to airline check-in / bag drop and then proceed through security; pick up any last-minute snacks or duty-free items at the terminal shops.

9:00 AM:

Clear security and settle near your departure gate; have a light coffee and pastry at Pret a Manger or Costa Coffee inside the departure area while the family reviews photos and boarding details.

9:30 AM:

Final restroom and boarding prep at the gate - gather passports and boarding passes, charge devices briefly at the gate charging points, and line up when boarding is announced for priority assistance if required.

11:30 AM:

If your flight is delayed or you cleared security early, relax in Heathrow Terminal lounge seating near your gate and enjoy a light snack from Pret a Manger or Costa Coffee while charging devices and reviewing photos.

12:00 PM:

Boarding window opens for many short-haul flights-confirm final boarding time at your gate, gather carry-ons and passports, and take a final restroom break at the airport facilities before lining up.

12:30 PM:

If there's extra time, visit the Heathrow shopping area for last-minute duty-free souvenirs or grab a family lunch at Giraffe or Wagamama (both have outlets in Heathrow and offer mains under £25).

1:00 PM:

Begin queuing at the gate when boarding is announced; use this moment to secure overhead space and settle the teens with a downloaded show or book from WHSmith if needed.

1:30 PM:

Final family check: confirm each person's passport and boarding pass, stow devices in carry-ons, and take a last group photo near the gate signage as a memento of your London stay.

6:00 PM:

Light dinner near the Airbnb at Honest Burgers or Franco Manca to keep things simple and within budget while everyone relaxes before bed and final packing.

7:00 PM:

Final packing and document check at 287 Regents Park Road-confirm passports, boarding passes, and that chargers and souvenirs are stowed in carry-ons.

7:30 PM:

Quick neighbourhood walk to Sainsbury's Local or Costa Coffee for any last-minute snacks and water; use the stroll to get fresh air and stretch before an early bedtime.

8:00 PM:

Family time to review photos and travel documents together in the living room-set out the taxi confirmation and place Oyster/contactless cards and keys by the door.

8:30 PM:

Shower and wind-down routine for everyone; encourage the teens to charge devices and pack entertainment for the flight near their carry-ons at 287 Regents Park Road.

9:00 PM:

Lay out clothes for the morning and double-check luggage weight and locks; weigh bags if needed and move any items to the hallway ready for the taxi pickup.

9:30 PM:

Relaxing quiet time-read or watch a short show together; have a small late snack from Sainsbury's Local if anyone needs it but avoid heavy meals before an early wake-up.

10:00 PM:

Set multiple alarms and ensure all travel documents are in a single, easily accessible folder; plug in phones and put chargers in the main living area so devices charge overnight.

10:30 PM:

Lights out or quiet time allowing everyone to get rest ahead of the early taxi; keep bedside torch or phone easily reachable for the morning.

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Estimated Costs (per person)

Place / ActivityCost
The Larder (local cafe) - breakfast / pastries£6
Heathrow Airport (immigration/luggage) - Visitor Oyster / contactless top-up£8
Elizabeth Line (Heathrow → London) per person£10
Taxi Heathrow → London (shared family not included in per-person totals)£0
Franco Manca (lunch / pizza)£12
Honest Burgers (meal)£14
Regent's Park (visit)Free
Finchley Central → Camden Town (Tube, per journey)£2.70
The Old White Lion / The Bull & Last (pub meal)£15
The Deli on Regents Park Road (snack / cafe)£6
The British Museum (entry + highlights tour)Free
Great Court Restaurant / Tea & Tattle (coffee/snack)£6
Covent Garden (market / shopping)Free
Homeslice Covent Garden (pizza lunch)£10
National Gallery (entry)Free
Notes Coffee Roasters (coffee break)£5
Foyles Bookshop (browse)Free
Stonehenge (English Heritage admission)£22.80
Stonehenge shuttle / exhibition (included in EH ticket)Free
The Swan Hotel / Swan Hotel Tearoom (Bibury lunch / cream tea)£15
Bourton-on-the-Water Model Village (entry)£4.50
Bakery on the Water / The Rose Tree (lunch / snack)£12
Lower Slaughter Mill (visit / photography)Free
Stow-on-the-Wold (market / shops)Free
Motorway service stop (fuel/snacks)£3
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London (The Making of Harry Potter) - adult standard ticket (per person)£55
Studio Café (on-site lunch)£12
Sixt - 158 Marylebone Road (car return) - no per-person costFree
Regent's Park / Boating Lake (boat hire seasonal)£8
Hamilton at Victoria Palace Theatre (ticket) - typical family band A/B average per person£80
Wasabi / Pret / Franco Manca (pre-theatre meal near Victoria)£12
King's Cross Platform 9¾ (photo shop) - photo opportunity£10
Leadenhall Market (Diagon Alley inspiration) - visitFree
Millennium Bridge (walk / photo stop)Free
Monmouth Coffee Company (Borough Market) - coffee£4
Borough Market (food stalls lunch)£12
Camden Market (street food / stalls)£12
Primrose Hill (viewpoint)Free
Poppies Fish & Chips (Camden) / The Stable (Camden)£13
Buckingham Palace (exterior / Changing of the Guard viewing)Free
Westminster Abbey (interior adult ticket)£27
The Red Lion (lunch near Parliament)£15
Tate Modern (main collection visit)Free
London Eye (optional standard ticket)£32
Wahaca Southbank / Giraffe (dinner)£14
Natural History Museum (entry)Free
Victoria and Albert Museum (visit)Free
Serpentine Boathouse (pedal boat hire seasonal)£12
The Orange / Comptoir Libanais (lunch)£12
National Portrait Gallery (visit)Free
Homeslice / Seven Dials Market (dinner/snacks)£10
Hamleys (toy store browse)Free
Sainsbury's Local (groceries / snacks)£5
Taxi to Heathrow (pre-booked/private transfer) - per person estimate£15
Heathrow Terminal dining (Giraffe / Wagamama) - meal£18
Estimated Total (per person)£436.00
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