If you’re planning a trip to London, UK, you’ll be glad to know there are so many free things to do in London with kids. From interactive museums to splash fountains, playgrounds, and even pelicans in the middle of the city, London makes it surprisingly easy to explore on a budget.
When we visited in summer, I was blown away by how many things to do in London with kids there are, and many of them are completely free.
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Free museums in London for kids
One of the best free family activities in London is visiting its world-class museums. Many are not only educational but also some of the most fun activities in London. While admission is free, you’ll usually need to reserve a free ticket online in advance. It’s quick and ensures you get a timed entry.
How to visit a Natural History Museum in London
Now, the Natural History Museum in London is hands down one of the best museums in London for families. The dinosaur skeletons in Hintze Hall are so interesting to explore, and younger visitors would love the animatronic T-Rex!
Other highlights include the sparkling minerals, the earthquake simulator, and the giant blue whale hanging from the ceiling. Since admission is free with ticket reservation, it’s always at the top of our London itinerary with kids.
How to visit the British Museum & National Gallery in London
For families with older children or teens, the British Museum feels like a treasure hunt. You’ll find the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and ancient Greek sculptures.
The kids would love running between galleries, pointing out the artifacts they could find.
How to visit the Science Museum & V&A in London
Both located on Exhibition Road, the Science Museum and Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A) are excellent options for families. The Science Museum in London is hands-on and interactive, filled with rockets, planes, and technology exhibits that kids can actually play with.
The V&A, while a little more grown-up, showcases fashion, design, and cultural artifacts that fascinate older children. They’re two of the best free places to visit in London, especially if you’re looking for indoor activities in London for families.
One of the best perks for families in London is that kids under 11 travel free on the London Underground, buses, and trams when accompanied by a paying adult.
Best free parks in London for families
London’s parks are not just green spaces; they’re destinations. These places to visit in London with children are perfect for downtime between sightseeing.
Visit St. James’s Park in London to spot the white pelicans
Right by Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Park is a classic London stop. The highlight for my kids? Watching the famous white pelicans being fed. We strolled past flower beds and fountains, then watched these giant birds glide across the lake. The little one called it a “bird park,” and it sure looked like one.
Visit Diana Memorial Playground in London
The Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens is one of the most popular family attractions in London. Inspired by Peter Pan, it features a massive wooden pirate ship at its center, surrounded by sand, climbing structures, teepees, and even a water play zone with sand, perfect for cooling off on warmer days.
A great perk is that Diana Memorial Playground allows only adults accompanying children inside, which makes it feel safe and family-focused.
You’ll also find a bathroom on-site and a little café at the entrance where you can grab coffee or ice cream while the kids play. My children could have spent hours here; it’s truly one of the most magical and fun things to do in London with kids.
Visit Holland Park in London
Holland Park in London flies under the radar, but it’s often mentioned as one of the best parks in London for families. Parents rave about the adventure playground, with climbing frames, swings, and ropes that keep kids entertained for hours.
The peaceful Kyoto Garden is another highlight, featuring waterfalls, koi ponds, and even resident peacocks, a little hidden retreat in the middle of the city. If you’re looking for a less crowded spot to let kids run off energy, Holland Park is definitely worth adding to your list.
Fun free activities in London with kids
Sometimes the best free kid-friendly attractions in London are the quirky ones you stumble upon. These were my family’s favorites.
Splash at the King’s Cross Fountains, London
We didn’t expect to spend so much time here, but the fountains at King’s Cross became an instant hit. On a warm day, kids can splash, run, and laugh while parents enjoy coffee nearby. Bring a change of clothes (or at least a towel) if you’re visiting in summer.
Dine at Mercato Mayfair in London
Okay, technically, the food isn’t free, but the atmosphere is. Mercato Mayfair is a food hall set inside a stunning former church. We went to have dinner, and my kids couldn’t believe the ceiling frescoes and the Gothic arches while we ate street food below. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s worth stepping inside.
Check out the Borough Market, London’s most famous food market
Another stop in London you would love is Borough Market. Again, eating here isn’t free, but wandering through is. The colors, smells, and bustle of London’s oldest food market make it an experience in itself.
The kids would have fun spotting unusual fruits, cheeses, and pastries. Just walking through and sampling (and the occasional free bite from friendly vendors) would make it a highlight.
Watch changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace
One of the most iconic free family activities in London is the Changing of the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace. The pageantry, the music, the uniforms, it feels like stepping into a storybook.
My kids were mesmerized by the soldiers marching in unison and the sound of the band filling the square. It’s free to watch, but get there early to grab a good spot, especially in summer when crowds are bigger.
Bottom line
London is one of the best cities for families, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy it. From free museums to free parks, the city is full of kid-friendly adventures at no cost.
Add in fun stops like Borough Market, Mercato Mayfair, the Changing of the Guard, and even splash time at King’s Cross fountains, and you’ll see why there are endless free family activities in London. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teens, these free kid-friendly attractions in London make it easy to create unforgettable memories without blowing your travel budget.
