Best Family Days Out in London

London is genuinely excellent for families — several of the world's best children's museums are free, the parks are enormous and safe, and the city's variety means something different for every age. Here's the organised guide by what works at different ages.

For Under-5s

Natural History Museum — the blue whale and dinosaur skeletons work at any age; the free Garden gallery in the basement is designed for under-5s. Diana Memorial Playground (Kensington Gardens) — one of the best playgrounds in London, free, themed around Peter Pan with a wooden pirate ship. Rainforest Café is not a serious restaurant recommendation but does amuse toddlers with its animatronic wildlife. The Royal Parks generally — Hyde Park, Regent's Park and St James's Park all have good open spaces for young children to run.

Ages 5–10

Science Museum — the permanent galleries are free and the hands-on Wonderlab (ticketed) is specifically designed for this age group. London Zoo (Regent's Park) — paid but popular with primary school age children. Tower of London — the armour, Beefeater stories and Crown Jewels work particularly well with curious children this age. Hampton Court Palace — the Tudor kitchens and maze.

Ages 11–16

British Museum — Egyptian mummies and the Sutton Hoo helmet connect with school curriculum history. Tate Modern's Turbine Hall — the scale alone tends to impress. Shakespeare's Globe groundling tickets (from £5) — standing in front of the stage for a real performance is transformative at this age.

Tips

• South Kensington (Natural History Museum + Science Museum) is the best single family destination in London.
• Under-11s travel free on all buses and Tube with Oyster.
• Book Wonderlab at the Science Museum in advance — it sells out on school holidays.
• Build in rest time — a full day of sightseeing is too much; alternate museum time with park time.