Big Ben, the iconic clock tower, sparked a fascination in my five-year-old son, igniting a passion for all things London. Our next family vacation was a no-brainer – London it was! And to make it even more special, we let him be the tour guide for our adventure.
Day One: A Whirlwind of London’s Highlights
After arriving in the morning, we checked into Hotel Cafe Royal, a luxurious haven in the heart of London. We took the Underground (my son’s favorite mode of transport) to the hotel, and I recommend grabbing lunch nearby to minimize travel time after a long journey.
Next, we ventured to the London Eye, a must-do for panoramic views of the city. We purchased the fast pass to skip the lines and enjoy the mesmerizing 30-minute ride. No need to exert yourself here, just sit back and soak in the sights!
Our adventure then led us across Westminster Bridge to fulfill my son’s dream of seeing Big Ben. We timed our arrival for 4 p.m. to witness the iconic bell chime, a truly magical moment.
The day concluded with a relaxing dinner at The Dorchester, a luxurious landmark with a cozy restaurant called The Promenade. The menu catered even to the pickiest of eaters, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a busy day.
Day Two: History, Pageantry, and Play
We started the day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, followed by a visit to the Mail Rail exhibit at the Postal Museum. This hidden gem offers a glimpse into London’s fascinating postal history with an interactive experience that includes a ride on a real underground train. My son loved exploring the tunnels and learning about the city’s past.
Next, we witnessed the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. Even though we couldn’t get close, the pageantry was entertaining enough to keep my son mesmerized.
A short walk took us to St. James’s Park playground, where my son enjoyed climbing, exploring, and even catching a glimpse of the continuing parade from the playground.
Lunch was an unforgettable experience at The Guardsman, a charming spot offering a quintessential British afternoon tea. My son was thrilled with the delicious sandwiches, pastries, and his very own beefeater teddy bear souvenir.
The day ended with a visit to Hamleys, one of the world’s largest and oldest toy stores. With seven floors filled with toys, gadgets, and gizmos, my son was in toy heaven!
Day Three: A Journey Through Fairy Tales and Fun
The morning started with a swim and breakfast at the hotel. We then hopped on a double-decker bus, fulfilling another of my son’s requests, and made our way to the Diana Memorial Playground. This enchanting space, inspired by Peter Pan, boasts a pirate ship, sandy beach, and various play features.
Our final kid-approved activity was the Peppa Pig bus tour, combining a historic double-decker bus ride with a delightful Peppa Pig theme. The tour included mini pizzas, scones, hot chocolate, and entertainment throughout the journey.
For dinner, my husband and I opted for a more adult affair at Pavyllon, in the Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane. While the restaurant caters to adults, they were incredibly accommodating with their kids menu and service.
Finding the Perfect Family Haven in London
London offers a plethora of family-friendly accommodation options, each with its own unique charm. For families, South Kensington, Covent Garden, and Westminster are ideal choices due to their proximity to major attractions.
We stayed at Hotel Cafe Royal, a luxurious hotel with spacious rooms and family-oriented programming. Their dedication to creating a comfortable experience for families was evident in the thoughtful touches like a toy tent and white noise machine.
Other excellent family-friendly options include The Hilton London Bankside and Holiday Inn London – Oxford Circus.
London is a vibrant city that caters to both adults and children. With a little planning, your family can experience the magic of London and create memories that will last a lifetime.
