15-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for London

  • Day 1: The British Museum
    5 minutes (0.2 miles) from Tottenham Court Road Station

    The British Museum is a perfect way to start your adventure. This museum houses around 8 million artifacts, making it one of the largest museums globally. It covers different eras and cultures worldwide, making it an educational yet enjoyable experience for everyone.

  • Day 2: The Tower of London
    15 minutes (2.2 miles) from The British Museum

    This historic castle is not only a tourist hotspot but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the tower housed the Crown Jewels throughout history. The tours of the tower are guided by a Yeoman Warder or Beefeater, adding a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

  • Day 3: The London Eye and SeaLife Aquarium
    20 minutes (1.5 miles) from The Tower of London

    The London Eye, located on the bank of the River Thames, provides a panoramic view of the city, including the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Combined with a visit to the Sea Life Aquarium, the day is perfect for all ages

  • Day 4: Kew Gardens
    35 minutes (5.5 miles) from The London Eye and SeaLife Aquarium

    Take a break from the hustle-bustle of the city and stroll around the 133-hectare garden. Highlights include the Palm House, Temperate House and the Treetop Walkway, sure to excite everyone, especially young children.

  • Day 5: Natural History Museum
    45 minutes (6.0 miles) from Kew Gardens

    A perfect blend of education, entertainment, and kids' curiosity, this museum houses both living and non-living specimens from all over the world. From a life-sized model of a Blue Whale to Dinosaurs' complete skeletons, the museum is awe-inspiring for all visitors.

  • Day 6: Buckingham Palace and St. James's Park
    15 minutes (3.1 miles) from the Natural History Museum

    The changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace is a must-see ceremony showing British pageantry. Plus, take a walk through St James's Park, home to many different kinds of birds and boasting some of the most stunning views of London.

  • Day 7: The London Dungeon
    20 minutes (2.6 miles) from Buckingham Palace and St. James's Park

    A visit to The London Dungeon may not be for the faint-hearted, but for those who enjoy macabre history, this is the perfect outing. Explore London's dark past, including the plague of London, Sweeney Todd and many more.

  • Day 8: Tate Modern
    25minutes (4.4 miles) from The London Dungeon

    Located on the bank of the Thames, this free museum showcases contemporary art. From thought-provoking installations to mesmerising artwork; the museum is especially appealing for teenagers and young adults.

  • Day 9: Hackney City Farm
    25 minutes (3.8 miles) from Tate Modern

    Pony rides, chickens, pet pigs, and local farm produce – create memorable experiences for your young ones at this charming little farm situated in the heart of the city.

  • Day 10: Warner Brothers Studio Tour
    1 hour and 15 minutes (20 miles) from Hackney City Farm

    The ultimate cinematic experience– this behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic movie series is sure to create magical moments with Harry Potter fans in your family.

  • Day 11: Hampton Court Palace
    1 hour and 20 minutes (15.2 miles) from Warner Brother Studios

    Known best for being the premises where King Henry VIII lived, this magnificent palace showcases the highlights of Tudor architecture and is appropriately educational for children. The garden maze and the live theatre performances adds to the charm of the place.

  • Day 12: Science Museum
    1 hour and 10 minutes (11.5 miles) from Hampton Court Palace

    The Science Museum exhibits the progress of scientific inventions and discoveries, including the significant developments in space exploration. A perfect blend of education, entertainment and fascination.

  • Day 13: Hyde Park and Kensington Garden
    35 minutes (5.2 miles) from Science Museum

    Covering 630 acres of land, this park offers horse riding, boat rides, cycling, swimming and many more activities. The park is surrounded by gardens, including Kensington Gardens. The Princess Diana Memorial Playground is a particular delight for the young ones.

  • Day 14: The Shard and Borough Market
    20 minutes (2.1 miles) from Hyde Park and Kensington Garden

    The Shard is the tallest building in Europe, and its observation deck offers breathtaking views of London. Located nearby is Borough Market- a mecca for foodies providing an extraordinary selection of mouth-watering food and drink.

  • Day 15: Shakespeare's Globe Theatre
    20 minutes (1 mile) from The Shard and Borough Market

    A must-see for literary enthusiasts, the Globe Theatre is the replica of the theatre where Shakespeare's plays were first performed in the 1600s first. The exhibition is interactive, and visitors can even watch theatre being performed on the premises.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • The British Museum (2 hours, Free)
  • The Tower of London (3 hours, £28 per adult, £13 per child)
  • The London Eye (£27 per adult, £22 per child, 1 hour)
  • Kew Gardens (3 hours, £17 per adult, Free for children under 4)
  • Natural History Museum (2 hours, Free)
  • Buckingham Palace and St. James's Park (2 hours, Free)
  • The London Dungeon (90 minutes, £29 per person)
  • Tate Modern (2 hours, Free)
  • Hackney City Farm (2 hours, Free)
  • Warner Brother Studio Tour (4 hours, £47 per adult, £41 per child)
  • Hampton Court Palace (4 hours, £22.70 per adult, £11.40 per child)
  • Science Museum (2 hours, Free)
  • Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens (4 hours, Free)
  • The Shard and Borough Market (£32 per person, 2 hours)
  • Shakespeare's Globe Theatre (2 hours, £7 per child, £17 per adult)
  • Total Estimated Costs (£271.10 per adult, £197.8 per child)

Transportation

Public transportation, such as the Tube and buses, is the most convenient way to get around the city. The Oyster Card can save you money on fares. Download Citymapper, an easy-to-use travel app that provides real-time schedules and directions. A taxi or uber ride can be more expensive, while cycling and walking offer an enjoyable and unique experience. The average taxi ride costs around £30 and takes around 30 minutes. A bus ride costs approximately £1.50 to £2.50, while the Tube fare varies from £2.40 to £5.90 based on zones and times.

Useful Tips

If you are pushing for time, prioritise museums and galleries that reflect your interests – the city has options for everyone. Consider switching Day 13 activities with activities from other days to avoid busy weekends at Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.

Airports

London has six international airports, but the busiest airport is London Heathrow (LHR). It is situated 14 miles (22 km) west of London's city centre and is well connected by underground trains, buses and taxis. The journey time from Heathrow to central London can take between 20-60 minutes depending on the transportation used.

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