Planning a trip to London with little ones can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! This city offers a plethora of attractions that are sure to delight both children and adults. My family and I recently embarked on a three-day adventure in the British capital, and let me tell you, it was a trip we’ll never forget.
We decided to let our 5-year-old son take the lead in planning our itinerary. He had been mesmerized by Big Ben ever since seeing it in a book, and his curiosity sparked a love for all things London. From iconic landmarks to whimsical activities, our trip was designed with a child’s perspective in mind.
Day 1: London Skyline and Big Ben Dreams
Our first day was dedicated to experiencing the grandeur of London’s skyline and fulfilling our son’s dream of seeing Big Ben. We arrived in the morning and made our way to our hotel, the Hotel Cafe Royal, located near Piccadilly Circus. The hotel is a fantastic base for exploring the city and boasts an incredibly family-friendly atmosphere.
After dropping our bags and a quick lunch, we headed straight to the London Eye. The best part? We purchased fast passes, which meant we bypassed the long lines and enjoyed a smooth ride on the iconic Ferris wheel. From high above the city, we soaked in breathtaking views of landmarks like Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament.
Next, we made our way across Westminster Bridge to see Big Ben, a sight that had our son beaming with joy. The famous clock tower had recently reopened after extensive restoration, making our timing perfect. Although we couldn’t go inside, we heard the iconic bell chime at 4 p.m., creating a truly memorable moment.
To end the day on a luxurious note, we dined at The Dorchester, a historic landmark with a newly renovated Promenade restaurant. The cozy couches and an exceptional kid-friendly menu made it the perfect spot to relax and unwind.
Day 2: Postal History, Royal Pomp, and Tea Time Delights
Our second day was a mix of fascinating history, royal pageantry, and classic British experiences.
First, we delved into London’s intriguing postal history at the Mail Rail exhibit in the Postal Museum. Our son, being a train fanatic, was thrilled by this interactive experience. We rode an actual underground train through the old tunnels, learning about the fascinating system that once transported the city’s mail.
Next, we witnessed the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace. The pomp and pageantry entertained our son, who was mesmerized by the colorful uniforms and intricate routines. We then took a short stroll to St. James’s Park, where our son enjoyed climbing on the rocks and playing in the sandbox.
No trip to London is complete without afternoon tea! We indulged at The Guardsman, a charming spot known for its quintessentially British experience. Our son delighted in the sandwiches, pastries, and a special stuffed bear dressed as a beefeater.
Later that evening, we embarked on a journey to Hamleys, one of the world’s largest and oldest toy stores. Seven floors filled with gadgets and gizmos made our son’s eyes light up, and he found a new toy to bring home.
Day 3: Playground Adventures, Double-Decker Bus Rides, and a Final Feast
Our final day in London was packed with playground fun, whimsical transportation, and a memorable dinner.
We started with a visit to the Diana Memorial Playground, a magical space inspired by the story of Peter Pan. Our son had a blast climbing the wooden pirate ship, exploring the sandy beach, and sliding down the hidden slides.
Next, we hopped on a double-decker bus for a Peppa Pig-themed tour. The bus, transformed into a restaurant, took us around the city while we enjoyed mini pizzas, scones, and hot chocolate. The onboard emcee kept the children entertained with games and songs, making it a truly interactive experience.
To end our trip on a high note, we dined at Pavyllon in the Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane. While the restaurant is geared toward adults, the staff was incredibly accommodating, offering a kid-friendly menu and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dining experience for our family.
We returned to the hotel for one last night before departing the following day, feeling incredibly grateful for the memories we made.
Family-Friendly Accommodations: Hotel Cafe Royal and Beyond
For our stay, we chose Hotel Cafe Royal, which proved to be a perfect choice for families. Its location near Piccadilly Circus allowed easy access to transportation and major attractions. The spacious rooms and family programming, curated by a former royal nanny, made it a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
But Hotel Cafe Royal isn’t the only option. There are a plethora of family-friendly hotels in London. For example, the Hilton London Bankside offers connecting rooms and an indoor pool, while Holiday Inn London – Oxford Circus features a complimentary kids eat free program.
A trip to London with kids is an unforgettable adventure. With careful planning and a little bit of creativity, you can create an itinerary that caters to both children and adults. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a London family adventure!
