7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in London

Friday, January 5: Arrival in London

Welcome to London! Start your trip by exploring the iconic Tower of London in the morning. Learn about its rich history and marvel at the Crown Jewels. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the Thames Path and enjoy picturesque views of the river. As the evening sets in, visit Covent Garden, a vibrant area filled with street performers, shops, and restaurants.

• Tower of London: £30, approximately 2-3 hours
• Thames Path: Free, 1-2 hours
• Covent Garden: Free, 2-3 hours

Saturday, January 6: Exploring South Bank

Start your day at the London Eye, a giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, visit the SEA LIFE London Aquarium, where you can discover a variety of sea creatures. As the evening arrives, enjoy a river cruise along the Thames, taking in the illuminated cityscape.

• London Eye: £30-£40, approximately 2-3 hours
• SEA LIFE London Aquarium: £25, approximately 2-3 hours
• Thames River Cruise: £15-£20, approximately 1-2 hours

Sunday, January 7: British Museum and West End

Spend your morning at the British Museum, exploring its vast collection of art and artifacts. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the West End, known for its world-class theaters. Watch a family-friendly musical or enjoy a matinee show. In the evening, dine at one of the many restaurants in the area.

• British Museum: Free, approximately 2-3 hours
• West End Theater Show: £30-£100, approximately 2-3 hours
• Dinner at a West End restaurant: £20-£40, approximately 1-2 hours

Monday, January 8: Natural History Museum and Hyde Park

In the morning, visit the Natural History Museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits, including the famous dinosaur collection. In the afternoon, relax and enjoy the serenity of Hyde Park. Rent bicycles, have a picnic, or take a boat ride on the Serpentine Lake. End the day with a visit to the nearby Kensington Palace.

• Natural History Museum: Free, approximately 2-3 hours
• Hyde Park: Free, time spent varies
• Kensington Palace: £15, approximately 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to The Good Life Eatery located near the Natural History Museum. They offer a variety of healthy breakfast options such as avocado toast and smoothie bowls. The average cost for a meal is about £10 per person.
• For lunch, try The Shed in Notting Hill, a short distance from Hyde Park. This rustic restaurant serves delicious seasonal British dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about £15-£20 per person.
• For dinner, make a reservation at Dishoom a Bombay-inspired eatery in Kensington. Indulge in flavorful Indian dishes like chicken tikka and buttered garlic naan. The average cost for a meal is about £25-£30 per person.

Tuesday, January 9: Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard

Begin your day by witnessing the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace. Afterward, explore the beautiful St. James's Park nearby. In the afternoon, visit the Churchill War Rooms, an underground maze filled with wartime secrets. Enjoy a relaxing evening at a traditional British pub.

• Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace: Free, approximately 1-2 hours
• St. James's Park: Free, approximately 1-2 hours
• Churchill War Rooms: £23, approximately 2-3 hours

Wednesday, January 10: Harry Potter Studio Tour

Step into the magical world of Harry Potter at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Explore the sets, costumes, and props used in the movies. In the afternoon, visit Camden Market, a bustling market offering a wide variety of food, clothing, and unique treasures. End the day with a relaxing walk along Regent's Canal.

• Harry Potter Studio Tour: £47, approximately 4-5 hours
• Camden Market: Free, time spent varies
• Regent's Canal: Free, time spent varies

Thursday, January 11: Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey

Start your day with a visit to the Palace of Westminster, home to the iconic Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Take a guided tour and learn about the political history of the UK. In the afternoon, explore Westminster Abbey, one of the most famous churches in the world. Enjoy a picturesque walk along the South Bank and savor your final evening in London.

• Palace of Westminster: Guided tours from £25, approximately 2-3 hours
• Westminster Abbey: £23, approximately 2-3 hours
• South Bank Walk: Free, time spent varies

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a family-friendly adventure off the beaten path, don't miss a visit to the Discover Children's Story Centre. This interactive museum encourages children to engage with stories through imaginative play. Another local favorite is the Greenwich Park, offering stunning views of London's skyline and a chance to explore the Royal Observatory.

Now that you have an exciting itinerary for your London trip, check for hotel and flight prices here.