“Free things to-do in London (UK) with Kids”
London is renowned for its pricey reputation but it doesn’t have to drain your wallet when it comes to family outings. Despite its costly nature, the city offers plenty of free attractions suitable for kids, making weekends and school holidays enjoyable without breaking the bank. From captivating museums and galleries to charming parks and playgrounds, there’s an abundance of no-cost activities awaiting discovery.
Embrace sunny days with adventures in the city’s beautiful parks, playgrounds, and paddling pools, ensuring endless entertainment for youngsters. Moreover, renowned institutions like the National Gallery and Tate often host complimentary family events during school breaks, while occasional free screenings at iconic venues like the Royal Opera House and Trafalgar Square provide additional options for budget-friendly outings. With an array of free activities catering to children, London stands as a prime destination for affordable family fun amidst the bustling metropolis.
So, yes, it is possible for families to enjoy all that London has to offer at the weekend or during the school holidays without spending a penny for all either kids or adults.
This article to free kids’ activities in London will help you to plan your days well and keep your daily visiting spend to a minimum.
The best no cost activities to do in London with kids…
The British Museum
The British Museum offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and art making it a must-visit attraction in London. Its magnificent Great Court serves as a striking entrance, featuring an impressive glass and metal roof. Within, visitors can explore an extensive collection of Egyptian artifacts, including mummies, which particularly captivate younger visitors. The museum has embraced digital exploration and offers free workshops like ‘Building Roman Britain in Minecraft’ and mosaic mask making, enhancing the educational experience for children. Additionally, the museum hosts a variety of events, from mosaic mask workshops to Egyptian photo booth sessions, ensuring there’s always something new and engaging to discover. With its stunning architecture and diverse array of activities, the British Museum provides an enriching and enjoyable outing for families exploring London.
The National History Museum
The Natural History Museum has an array of iconic displays, spanning from dinosaurs to volcanoes, human evolution to space education. Housed within the magnificent Alfred Waterhouse building, its collection encompasses some 70 million specimens, including plants, animals, fossils, rocks, and minerals. The Life Galleries showcase the diversity of animal life, from insects to the majestic Diplodocus skeleton, while the Earth Galleries dig into the natural forces shaping our planet, our impact on it, and its cosmic significance.
The Science Museum
The Science Museum is located next to the National History Museum that offers seven floors of educational and entertaining exhibits showcasing how technology has shaped the modern world. Children can explore interactive displays like the Wonderlab on level 3, which features over 50 shows and demonstrations. For preschoolers, there’s a dedicated area on the lower ground floor where they can engage in hands-on water exhibits, although it’s recommended to visit last as they may get wet. Additionally, there’s a water exhibit where little ones can build dams and conduct experiments. Before visiting, it’s advised to download the ‘Treasure Hunters’ app created by the museum for an enhanced experience.
Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A)
The Victoria and Albert Museum, or V&A Museum, stands as a premier institution for art and design globally, situated alongside the Natural History and Science Museums. While some exhibits require admission, there’s plenty to explore for free. Offering engaging hands-on activities for children year-round, the museum ensures an immersive experience for even its youngest visitors. From captivating costumes like those from the Lion King to dramatic court dresses and unexpected automata, such as a tiger devouring a man, the museum’s vast collection provides a rich treasure trove for exploration. Additionally, free family events are available during school holidays and select weekends, enhancing the museum’s appeal as a destination for families.
Watch out Changing of the Guards
In London, one of the cherished traditional activities for families with kids is visiting Buckingham Palace to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. This event, held daily at 10:45 am (weather permitting), offers an engaging spectacle lasting approximately 45 minutes, with the formal handover occurring at 11 am. Comprising five regiments forming the Queen’s Guard, soldiers clad in the iconic red uniform and bearskin hats participate in this ceremonial display, showcasing subtle distinctions in their attire. Despite its popularity and potential crowding, experiencing this cultural tradition remains a captivating and cost-free activity for families exploring the city.
Pay a visit to Barbican Conservatory
It is located in the Barbican Centre, London harbors a hidden oasis—an enchanting sub-tropical paradise with countless species of rare plants, vibrant flowers, and delicate orchids. This tranquil haven offers ample space for leisurely strolls, making it a peaceful retreat for families seeking relief amidst the bustling cityscape.
Don’t forget to visit Harry Potter Platform 9 ¾
If you kids are Harry Potter fans, in that case a trip to Kings Cross Station’s Platform 9 3/4 is a must for your family bucket list. Queue up outside the Harry Potter shop to snap a photo with your Hogwarts house scarf and push a trolley through the magical platform wall. Don’t forget to explore the adjacent Harry Potter shop for souvenirs. If you’re a die-hard fan, consider a day trip to the Harry Potter studio tour for an immersive experience, but book in advance as it’s highly popular. And for a magical adventure, take your kids on a tour of famous Harry Potter filming locations, starting at Kings Cross Station and ending at St Paul’s Cathedral, where they can relive scenes from their favorite wizarding world. (Few things are free while some require a cost to visit).
Splash and cool off at the fountains at Granary Square
During the warmer months, the fountains at Granary Square in the London Borough of Camden attract crowds of kids, providing a refreshing oasis where they can splash and cool off. With a vast array of 1080 water jets, children have been enjoying this aquatic playground for over a decade. Don’t forget to pack a towel and a change of clothes for your little ones!
Additionally, splash parks can be found throughout London, including in Stratford QE Park and Southbank, offering plenty of options for water fun across the city.
Pay a visit to Hyde Park Central London
Hyde Park is situated at the western edge of Oxford Street that offers a vast area of greenery complete with lakes, cafes, and an array of attractions. During the summer, it becomes a hub for activities like roller skating, cycling, and sunbathing, while in winter, the renowned Winter Wonderland and Christmas Markets add a festive charm. Ideal for both locals and tourists, the park boasts playgrounds with slides, climbing frames, and a central lake, providing ample entertainment for visitors of all ages. It’s perfect for a day out, so consider bringing along a picnic to fully enjoy all that Hyde Park has to offer.
Pay a visit to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park East London
It is located in London’s East End of Stratford, Queen Elizabeth Park offers free enjoyment for families every day of the week. From exploring canal boats to wandering through wetlands, this picturesque park provides countless opportunities for memorable summer days. The nearby splash park offers a refreshing way to beat the heat, while attractions like East Village and Westfield’s Shopping Centre provide additional entertainment options. Families can embark on the wetland tale trail, following a downloadable map that recounts the enchanting story of Hobgrumble Joe of the Waterglades, adding an extra layer of excitement to a simple walk.
Hop on to London Bus
Exploring London aboard a red double-decker bus offers an iconic and budget-friendly way to see the city’s sights, particularly for families with kids. Opting for routes like 26 or 9 provides a mini-tour, showcasing landmarks from Westminster Abbey to Kensington Palace. While adults pay a nominal fee (£1.75), children under 11 ride free with a paying adult. Snagging front seats on the top deck enhances the experience, offering panoramic views. With cashless transactions onboard, travelers need travel cards or credit cards. The self-guided bus tour provides a comprehensive overview of London’s highlights, making it an ideal option for budget-conscious visitors keen on maximizing their sightseeing while sparing young ones from tired legs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, London offers a number of free activities for families with kids, providing memorable experiences without breaking the bank. From exploring iconic landmarks like parks, museums, and markets to enjoying street performances and cultural events, the city is brimming with opportunities for fun-filled adventures that cater to all ages and interests. By taking advantage of these cost-effective options, families can create lasting memories while immersing themselves in the vibrant culture and history of one of the world’s most dynamic cities. So, whether it’s a leisurely stroll along the Thames, a visit to a fascinating museum, or simply enjoying the diverse street scenes, London offers endless possibilities for free and enriching experiences for the whole family to enjoy.
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