Free things to do in London with kids. London offers many free activities for families, making it a great destination for budget-friendly trips. Kids can enjoy museums, parks, and unique experiences without spending a penny. The city boasts over 35 free attractions for children, ranging from world-class museums to interactive outdoor spaces.

Parents can plan exciting days out without breaking the bank. Free museums in London include the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and British Museum. These places offer hands-on exhibits and fascinating displays that captivate young minds.

For outdoor fun, London’s parks and gardens provide ample space for kids to run and play. Families can also explore iconic landmarks, watch street performers, and discover hidden gems throughout the city. With so many options, children of all ages will find something to enjoy in London without spending money.

Key Takeaways

• London offers numerous free attractions for families, including world-class museums and parks
• Kids can enjoy hands-on exhibits, outdoor activities, and iconic landmarks at no cost
• Budget-friendly options allow families to experience London’s best without spending mone

Free things To Do in London With Kids

Top Free Museums and Galleries

London offers many world-class museums and galleries that are free to visit. These institutions provide exciting exhibits and activities for kids to learn and have fun.

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is a treasure trove of wonders for curious young minds. Kids can marvel at the massive dinosaur skeletons in the main hall. The museum’s earthquake simulator lets children experience what a quake feels like.

Interactive exhibits teach about animals, plants, and geology. Highlights include:

• The giant blue whale model • Hands-on science stations • A butterfly garden (small fee required)

The museum hosts special events for families throughout the year. Many include free crafts and activities related to nature and science topics.

Science Museum

The Science Museum brings science to life with fun, hands-on exhibits. Kids can:

• Pilot a flight simulator • Experiment in the interactive gallery • Learn about space exploration

The museum’s Wonder Lab lets children play with scientific principles. They can slide down friction slides and create live circuits.

Free shows in the theater cover topics like rockets and the human body. The IMAX theater offers immersive films (for a fee).

Special exhibits change regularly. Many focus on current science and technology trends.

British Museum

The British Museum houses artifacts from around the world. Kids can see:

• Ancient Egyptian mummies • The Rosetta Stone • Greek and Roman sculptures

The museum offers free activity trails for families. These guide kids through exhibits on topics like animals or money.

Handling sessions let children touch real historical objects. The Samsung Digital Discovery Centre has free weekend workshops. Kids use tablets to explore the collections in creative ways.

During school holidays, the museum hosts extra family events. Many include free crafts inspired by different cultures.

Tate Modern

Tate Modern makes modern art accessible to kids. The huge Turbine Hall hosts large-scale installations that change regularly. These often have interactive elements children enjoy.

Free family trails help kids engage with the art. They include fun activities to do while exploring the galleries.

Hands-on workshops let children create their own art. Topics relate to current exhibits. The museum also offers free art materials for kids to use while visiting.

On weekends, free family tours introduce children to modern art concepts. The viewing level provides a great view of London for free.

Museum of London Docklands

This museum tells the story of London’s river, port, and people. Kids can:

• Explore a recreated 19th-century street • Learn about the history of the slave trade • See how the docks changed over time

The museum has a dedicated children’s gallery called Mudlarks. It lets kids play and learn about London’s history. They can load cargo onto boats and build dock walls.

Family-friendly events happen regularly. Many focus on London’s maritime past. The museum also offers free trails to guide families through the exhibits.

Iconic Landmarks and Historical Sites

London is home to many famous landmarks and historical sites that kids will love exploring. These iconic attractions offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture.

Tower Bridge and Houses of Parliament

Tower Bridge is a must-see London landmark. Kids can watch as the bridge opens to let tall ships pass through. The bridge’s walkways offer great views of the River Thames.

The Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster, is another iconic sight. Its Gothic architecture is impressive from the outside. Big Ben, the famous clock tower, stands tall next to it.

Families can walk along the riverside path to see both landmarks up close. This area is perfect for taking photos and learning about London’s history.

Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard

Buckingham Palace is the official home of the British monarch. While touring the inside costs money, viewing the palace from outside is free.

The real highlight for kids is the Changing of the Guard ceremony. This colorful event happens several times a week. Guards in red uniforms and bearskin hats march and perform a formal handover.

It’s best to arrive early to get a good spot. The ceremony lasts about 45 minutes and is filled with music and precision marching.

Trafalgar Square and The Mall

Trafalgar Square is a lively public space in central London. Kids will enjoy seeing the huge lion statues and the tall Nelson’s Column. Street performers often entertain crowds here.

The square has fountains where children can splash around on hot days. It’s also a great place for people-watching and pigeon-feeding.

The Mall is a grand road that leads from Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace. It’s lined with Union Jack flags and is used for royal processions.

Westminster Abbey and Big Ben

Westminster Abbey is a beautiful Gothic church with a rich history. While entering costs money, admiring its exterior is free. Kids can spot gargoyles and intricate stone carvings on the walls.

Big Ben, part of the Houses of Parliament, is one of London’s most recognizable symbols. Its chimes can be heard across the city. The tower is currently undergoing renovations but is still visible.

These landmarks are close together, making it easy to see both in one visit. The area around them is full of history and perfect for a family walk.

Parks and Outdoor Spaces

London’s parks and green spaces offer fun, free activities for kids. Families can enjoy playgrounds, nature walks, and open areas for picnics and games.

Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens provide 630 acres of green space in central London. Kids love the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground with its pirate ship and sensory trail.

The playground is free and open daily. It has a beach, teepees, and play sculptures.

Kensington Gardens has the Peter Pan statue and the Italian Gardens. Families can rent boats on the Serpentine lake or watch the horse riders along Rotten Row.

Hyde Park offers free activities like swimming in the Serpentine Lido in summer. Kids can also feed the ducks or play in the playgrounds.

Greenwich Park and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

Greenwich Park, one of London’s Royal Parks, offers stunning views of the city. Kids can stand on the Prime Meridian line at the Royal Observatory.

The park has a deer enclosure, flower gardens, and large grassy areas for picnics and games. The National Maritime Museum nearby is free to visit.

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park has free playgrounds and fountains for water play. Kids can climb the ArcelorMittal Orbit sculpture or explore the nature trails.

The park hosts free events and activities throughout the year. Families can rent bikes to explore the park’s 560 acres.

Holland Park and Kyoto Garden

Holland Park features the peaceful Kyoto Garden, a Japanese-style garden with koi ponds and waterfalls. Kids can spot peacocks roaming freely in the park.

The adventure playground has zip lines, climbing frames, and a giant see-saw. It’s suitable for children of all ages and abilities.

Holland Park also has sports facilities, including tennis courts and a cricket pitch. The Ecology Centre offers free nature activities for kids on weekends.

In summer, families can watch open-air theatre performances in the park. The park’s cafes provide spots to rest and have a snack.

Richmond Park and Hampstead Heath

Richmond Park, London’s largest Royal Park, is home to 630 red and fallow deer. Kids can watch the deer from a safe distance and explore the park’s woodlands.

The park has cycling and horse-riding trails. Families can climb King Henry’s Mound for views of St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Hampstead Heath offers natural swimming ponds and the Parliament Hill viewpoint. Kids can fly kites on Parliament Hill or explore the adventure playground.

The heath has sports facilities and a track for running. In winter, sledding on its hills is a popular free activity for families.

Interactive and Educational Attractions

London offers many free places where kids can learn and have fun. These spots let children explore, discover, and play in exciting ways.

Horniman Museum and Gardens

The Horniman Museum is a great place for families. It has lots of interesting exhibits about nature and culture. Kids can see stuffed animals, musical instruments, and artifacts from around the world. The museum also has hands-on activities for children.

Outside, the gardens are beautiful. There’s a butterfly house and an animal walk. Kids can see alpacas, goats, and other animals up close. The gardens also have a nature trail and a sound garden where children can make music with outdoor instruments.

The museum hosts free events and workshops for families on weekends and during school breaks. These often include crafts, storytelling, and nature activities.

National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum in Greenwich is packed with fun for kids. It teaches about ships, sea exploration, and naval history. The museum has many interactive displays that children love.

Kids can steer a ship simulator, play with water features, and dress up in sailor costumes. There’s also a play area for younger children called “Ahoy!” It has a pretend beach, boat, and fish market.

The museum offers free family trails and activity bags. These help kids explore the exhibits in fun ways. On some days, there are free workshops where children can learn about navigation, map-making, and sea creatures.

Crystal Palace Park and Thames Barrier Park

Crystal Palace Park is great for a day out. It has life-size dinosaur statues that kids love. These were made in the 1800s and are now protected monuments. The park also has a maze, a playground, and a small farm.

There’s a big lake where families can go boating in summer. The park often hosts free events like outdoor concerts and sports days.

Thames Barrier Park is another fun spot. It has a unique design with wave-shaped hedges. Kids can run around the grass areas and play in the fountains on hot days. The park gives great views of the Thames Barrier, which protects London from floods.

Camley Street Natural Park and Mudchute Farm and Park

Camley Street Natural Park is a small nature reserve in central London. It has ponds, wildflower meadows, and woodland areas. Kids can look for frogs, butterflies, and birds. The park offers free nature activities for families on some days.

Mudchute Farm is one of London’s biggest city farms. It’s free to visit and has over 100 animals. Children can see cows, pigs, sheep, and horses. The farm also has a petting zoo with small animals that kids can touch.

Mudchute Park surrounds the farm. It has play areas and nature trails. Families can have picnics and enjoy views of the city skyline.

Unique Experiences and Creative Spots

London offers many exciting free activities for kids. These spots blend art, culture, and nature to create unforgettable family memories.

Street Art and Graffiti in Shoreditch and Camden

Shoreditch and Camden are hubs for street art. Kids can see colorful murals and graffiti on building walls. The art changes often, so each visit brings new sights. Brick Lane is a great starting point in Shoreditch. Camden Market features eye-catching designs near food stalls.

Families can take self-guided tours to spot works by famous artists like Banksy. Many pieces share messages about society or nature. This makes for fun talks with kids about what the art means. Local guides sometimes offer free walking tours too.

South Bank Cultural Trail

The South Bank is packed with free fun for families. Kids can watch street performers near the London Eye. Jugglers, musicians, and magicians often put on shows here.

The trail passes book stalls under Waterloo Bridge. Children might find a new story to read. The Tate Modern offers free entry. Its huge turbine hall hosts giant art installations kids can explore.

Nearby, the National Theatre sometimes has free outdoor events. Families can also enjoy views of St. Paul’s Cathedral across the river. The trail ends at Borough Market, where kids can see (and smell) lots of foods.

Sky Garden and Primrose Hill Views

For amazing city views, visit the Sky Garden. It’s free but needs booking ahead. Kids love the indoor jungle of exotic plants. Large windows show London’s skyline from up high.

Primrose Hill in Regent’s Park is another great spot for views. Families can bring a picnic and fly kites here. On clear days, major landmarks are visible. Kids might spot the London Eye or The Shard.

Both places let children see London from new angles. This can help them understand the city’s layout. It’s also fun for them to point out places they’ve visited.

Barbican Conservatory and Granary Square Fountains

The Barbican Conservatory is a hidden jungle in the city. It’s open on select Sundays and is free to visit. Kids can spot exotic plants, trees, and fish ponds. The space feels like a tropical adventure.

Granary Square has over 1,000 fountains kids can play in. They’re flat on the ground and shoot water up in patterns. On hot days, children splash and cool off here. The fountains light up at night, creating a magical scene.

Both spots offer unique ways for kids to connect with nature in the city. They can learn about plants or just have fun getting wet.

Conclusion

London offers many free activities for families. From world-class museums to beautiful parks, there’s something for everyone.

Plan your visit by checking opening times and any special events. Many attractions have quieter periods, which can help avoid crowds.

Maximize the experience by grouping activities in the same area. This saves time and energy, especially with young children.

Pack snacks and water to keep energy levels up. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the city.

Don’t try to do everything in one day. Pick a few key activities and enjoy them fully.

Remember to check for free theater tickets during Kids Week in the summer. This can be a great way to experience West End shows.

With so many free options, London proves that family fun doesn’t have to be expensive.

Frequently Asked Questions

London offers many free activities for families. From museums to parks, there are options for all interests and ages. Neighborhoods like South Bank and Greenwich provide kid-friendly attractions.

What are the top free family activities in London?

Natural History Museum is a top choice for families. Kids can see dinosaur fossils and learn about science.

The Tate Modern offers free art workshops for children. They can try drawing or clay modeling.

Covent Garden is great for people-watching and street performances. Families can enjoy the lively atmosphere at no cost.

Where can families go for no-cost entertainment in London this weekend?

City farms are fun weekend spots. Kids can see farm animals up close.

Parks like Hyde Park and Regent’s Park offer free entry. Families can have picnics or play games.

Which London neighborhoods are most suitable for family-friendly outings?

South Bank and Bankside are great for families. They have attractions, history, and activities for all ages.

Greenwich is good for outdoor adventures. It has parks, museums, and maritime history.

How can I find kid-friendly cultural experiences in London at no charge?

Many museums in London are free. The British Museum and Science Museum offer interactive exhibits for kids.

West End shows sometimes offer free tickets for children. This happens during special promotions like Kids Week.

What indoor activities are available for children in London during bad weather?

The British Library hosts free events for families. These include storytelling sessions and craft workshops.

Tate Modern is a good rainy-day option. It has indoor spaces for kids to explore art.

Can you recommend any hidden gems for families to visit for free in London?

The Sky Garden offers free entry with booking. Families can enjoy city views from this indoor garden.

Little Venice is a peaceful area to explore. Kids can watch boats on the canal and feed ducks.