Family-Friendly Itinerary for 5 Days in London, September 4-8, 2023
Monday, September 4: Exploring the Historic Heart of London
Begin your London adventure by visiting the iconic Tower of London in the morning. Explore the medieval fortress, see the Crown Jewels, and learn about the city's fascinating history. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the South Bank of the River Thames and visit the Shakespeare's Globe Theatre. Wrap up the day with a ride on the London Eye for breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Breakfast Club near London Bridge. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of breakfast options, from classic English breakfast to mouthwatering pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about £10 per person.
For lunch, head to Borough Market and enjoy a meal at Arabica Bar & Kitchen. This Middle Eastern restaurant serves flavorful dishes such as lamb kofta and falafel wraps. Average cost for a meal is about £12 per person.
In the evening, dine at The Swan, a beautiful riverside restaurant located near Shakespeare's Globe Theatre. Indulge in modern British cuisine with a stunning view of the River Thames. Average cost for a meal is about £25 per person.
Tuesday, September 5: Discovering Museum Marvels
Spend the morning exploring the British Museum, home to a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. In the afternoon, head to the Natural History Museum, where you can marvel at dinosaur skeletons and learn about the natural world. End the day with a visit to the Science Museum, filled with interactive exhibits for all ages.
British Museum: Free admission, 2-3 hours
Natural History Museum: Free admission, 2-3 hours
Science Museum: Free admission, 2-3 hours
Wednesday, September 6: Family Fun in the Park
Spend the morning exploring the beautiful Hyde Park. Enjoy a leisurely walk, rent bicycles, or have a picnic by the Serpentine Lake. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Kensington Palace, where you can discover the stories of past royal residents. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Princess Diana Memorial Playground, a magical play area inspired by Peter Pan.
Princess Diana Memorial Playground: Free admission, 1-2 hours
Thursday, September 7: Exploring Harry Potter's London
In the morning, embark on the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter. Discover the magical sets, costumes, and props used in the iconic film series. Afterward, head to Platform 9¾ at King's Cross Station for a photo opportunity. In the afternoon, visit the House of MinaLima, showcasing the graphic designs from the Harry Potter movies. End the day with a visit to the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour: £47 (estimated cost), 4-5 hours
Platform 9¾: Free admission, 1 hour
House of MinaLima: Free admission, 1-2 hours
Friday, September 8: Riverside Charm and Royal Splendor
Start the day with a visit to the enchanting Borough Market, known for its diverse food stalls and delicious treats. In the afternoon, take a boat cruise along the River Thames, enjoying the scenic views and passing iconic landmarks. End your trip by visiting Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch, and witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Borough Market: Cost varies by purchases, 2-3 hours
River Thames Cruise: £15 (estimated cost), 1-2 hours
Buckingham Palace: Free admission, 1 hour (Changing of the Guard: 45 minutes)
Restaurants
Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at The Breakfast Club near Borough Market. This popular spot offers a wide variety of breakfast options, from classic dishes like eggs and bacon to creative creations like pancakes with berries. The average cost for a meal is about £10 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Tapas Brindisa in Borough Market. This Spanish restaurant offers a mouthwatering selection of tapas dishes made with the finest ingredients. Try their famous chorizo croquettes or patatas bravas. The average cost for a meal is about £15 per person.
End your day with a delicious dinner at The Goring Bar & Lounge near Buckingham Palace. This elegant restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a menu featuring British classics and modern cuisine. Indulge in dishes like roast beef with Yorkshire pudding or pan-seared sea bass. The average cost for a meal is about £40 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique and family-friendly experience, consider visiting the Grant Museum of Zoology, located in University College London. This fascinating museum houses a collection of weird and wonderful animal specimens. Another hidden gem is the V&A Museum of Childhood, where you can explore the history of toys and games. Both attractions provide an educational and entertaining experience for all ages.