With so much to see and explore in London, Britain and beyond, there are endless family-friendly things to choose from, so where should you start? Attractions, tours, river cruises, exhibitions, activities... What do you add to your itinerary that your kids will actually find entertaining?

Whether visiting London for the first time, venturing to other parts of the UK or travelling to Edinburgh or Paris, this guide lists over forty sightseeing sites and things to do to help you plan the family trip of a lifetime.

Things to Do with Kids in London

London is packed with incredible attractions that cater to children of all ages. From must-see landmarks to fun museums and thrilling outdoor activities, there is enough to fill your child's curiosity; here are the top things to do with kids in the capital.

Best London Indoor Attractions for Kids

For experiences that will remain in the memory for many years to come, these are the top London Attractions for kids.

• The Natural History Museum – Conveniently located in Central London, this iconic museum brings history to life, featuring gigantic dinosaur skeletons, an earthquake simulator, and interactive exhibits to uncover the wonders of the natural world. Its stunning Romanesque architecture is the perfect family selfie backdrop!
• The Science Museum – With hands-on galleries, immersive experiences, and cutting-edge technology displays, here your kids engage with fascinating exhibits and learn about historic inventions that changed the world. A fascinating one, even for the tallest kids!
• London Eye - Embark for a 30-minute ride on the world-famous ferry wheel for incredible views of Westminster and the River Thames that you're guaranteed your kids will enjoy. This is a must-do if you want to bring iconic photos with your loved ones back home!
• London Zoo – Book a trip to one of the oldest zoos on the planet and see over 750 species, including tigers, penguins, and gorillas. Your kids can participate in interactive feeding experiences and listen to conservation talks - a place for all animal lovers.
• SEA LIFE London Aquarium – Walk underwater through quiet ocean tunnels surrounded by sharks, delicate jellyfish and rescued sea turtles. Visit the interactive rock pools for hands-on encounters with marine creatures. SEA Life London is one to remember!
• The London Transport Museum – Learn everything about London’s tentacular transport system and history by accessing vintage buses, underground trains, and educational displays. Climb aboard historic vehicles and try the fun tube driver simulator.
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter – If there's only one experience to treat your family to, this would be it. Take your little Harry Potter fans on the famous sets, props, and costumes from their favourite film series. Walk through the Great Hall, sip Butterbeer, and experience the magic of Diagon Alley and the Forbidden Forest. If you already have your tickets, book your coach transfers from Central London.
• Madame Tussauds – Step into a world of glamour at the world-famous wax museum, where you can strike a pose with all your favourite celebrities, royalty, sports legends, and superheroes. Wander around the interactive displays and themed zones and get really close to your icons.
• Shrek’s Adventure! London – Open the doors to the fairytale world of Shrek, Donkey, and all DreamWorks characters. In this enchanting experience for the entire family, bring the animated movies to life with 4D effects, actors, and interactive storytelling - a fun attraction that holds surprises around every corner!
• Hamley's – Enter the legendary toy store on Regent Street, which spans multiple floors and is filled with the latest toys, classic games, and interactive demos. From enchanting puppet shows to life-sized LEGO figures, your kids will love this wonderland.
• The Royal Observatory and Planetarium in Greenwich – Little stargazers and space enthusiasts will be fascinated by unique planetarium shows, cosmos exhibits and the chance to stand on the Prime Meridian, where East meets West. Learn about the mysteries of the universe while enjoying stunning views over London.
• Horniman Museum and Gardens – Here's one true London hidden gem that boasts an eclectic collection of anthropology, musical instruments, and taxidermy, while the enchanting gardens feature a butterfly house, an animal walk, and a nature trail. All curious minds will enjoy themselves at Horniman Museum and Gardens!
• Theatre Play in London West End – Experience the magic of live theatre with world-class productions tailored for families. Iconic shows like The Lion King, Matilda, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child captivate audiences with spectacular performances, stage design, and storytelling - prepare for an unforgettable evening in London theatres!

London Outdoor Activities for Families

We’ve got many options if you’re looking for some outdoor activities you can enjoy with your family in London: 

• Hyde Park – No London visit is complete without a relaxing walk in this iconic green space in the heart of London. Not only ideal for walks, Hyde Park is great for a family bike ride or a picnic if the weather permits (or Winter Wonderland). If a together activity tempts you, take a boat ride on the serene Serpentine Lake or visit Kensington Palace.
• Hampstead Heath – Head to North West London for the most breathtaking views from Parliament Hill. A spot for family picnics, walks, runs, and even a refreshing dip in the swimming ponds, kids will love this adventure playground, while nature lovers will appreciate the wildflower meadows and abundant wildlife.
• Battersea Park Children's Zoo – Located in South London, this family-friendly zoo features otters, monkeys, and farm animals like donkeys and goats. Your kids will enjoy the play areas, cute feeding sessions, and hands-on activities, making it a fantastic spot for young animal enthusiasts!
• Thames River Cruise – To see London’s iconic landmarks from the water, take a river cruise and glide along the River Thames while listening to engaging commentary and admiring Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Tower Bridge.
• Thames Rockets – This fun high-speed boat river cruise mixes sightseeing with adrenaline with rides up to 35mph! Pass London’s most famous landmarks while enjoying James Bond music and entertaining storytelling from your expert guides. A must-try for families looking for a more adventurous way to see the city!
• Kew Gardens – UNESCO-listed botanical garden Kew Gardens is home to rare plants, species and towering glasshouses. Stroll through the enchanting Treetop Walkway, explore the Children’s Garden, and discover exotic flora in the iconic Temperate House!

Things to Do with Kids Outside London

Beyond London, the UK offers plenty of family-friendly activities and destinations. Whether you seek adventure, history, or nature, there’s something for everyone.

Family-Friendly and Educational Tours in the UK

Castles, UNESCO sites, museums... Don't hesitate to take your family on a convenient coach tour from London to unique sightseeing sites in Britain: 

• Warwick Castle – Step back in time and experience the grandeur of Warwick Castle, a spectacular medieval fortress that brings history to life. Families can immerse themselves in the castle's rich past with live shows like extraordinary falconry shows, knight jousting tournaments, historical reenactments, and dungeon experiences.
• Dover Castle – One of the most iconic fortresses in England, Dover Castle will give your kids a fascinating glimpse into the country’s history, from its medieval origins to its role in both World Wars. Explore the underground wartime tunnels and learn about the castle's pivotal role during the Dunkirk evacuation and the Cold War. End your tour with panoramic views of the English Channel and the White Cliffs of Dover for spectacular family photos!
• Stonehenge – Stonehenge is one of the world’s most famous and fascinating prehistoric monuments, a captivating site that will spark your imagination as theories behind its construction continue to be debated. After admiring the towering stones, explore the visitor centre's fascinating artefacts and decipher Stonehenge's mysteries. 
• Eureka! Halifax – Located in Yorkshire, this museum is designed for kids and makes learning super fun with interactive exhibits about science, technology, and the human body. Your kids can explore a giant brain, become mini-scientists in the discovery zone, and engage in creative play that fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Test your little ones' knowledge in this educational but entertaining museum!
• National Space Centre – Learn everything about space exploration history with real-life rockets, spacecraft, and astronaut suits in this Leicester-based centre. The planetarium's immersive experiences offer visual tours of the night sky and outer space - an out-of-this-world experience for all curious minds and future astronauts!
• Lakeland Motor Museum – Perfect for car lovers, this Lake District-based museum showcases an impressive collection of vintage cars, motorbikes, and automobile memorabilia. From classic Mini Coopers to sleek vintage motorcycles, the museum displays the great evolution of motoring history, entertaining the whole family!
• The Lake District – A true paradise for families seeking unique outdoor adventures, the Lake District is your next stop for gorgeous landscapes, lakes, valleys, and mountains. Here, enjoy everything from scenic hikes to boat trips on Lake Windermere and wildlife. Take a family-friendly walking route like Tarn Hows and Aira Force, or try kayaking and rock climbing together. A trip of a lifetime to add to your bucket list!
• Cornwall – Famous for its golden sandy beaches, ideal for surfing, building sandcastles, and seaside fun, Cornwall is always a good idea for a family trip. Visit The Eden Project, where your kids will learn much about its iconic biomes, or escape to the Lost Gardens of Heligan to explore treehouses and trails. Other equally amazing attractions await, such as Newquay Zoo and the historic Tintagel Castle, known for its Arthurian legend connections.
• The Cotswolds – Prepare for a fantastic day and immerse yourself in storybook villages, rolling hills, and picturesque countryside. If you're looking for a convenient day outside London with your kids, think of the Cotswolds. Together, discover quaint villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold and many more postcard villages!
• The New Forest - If you haven't heard of it yet, the New Forest is a national park famous for its wild ponies roaming freely. It is an incredible place for kids to explore the dense woodlands and cute villages. Kids can cycle along paths, try paddleboarding on the Beaulieu River, or enjoy a treasure hunt through the forest. Visit the New Forest Wildlife Park and Paultons Park, which are all more reasons to plan a trip to this family destination!

Best Theme Parks in the UK

Wonder where to go for a generous dose of family fun? From record-breaking roller coasters to enchanting film sets, these exciting theme parks promise extraordinary adventures – here’s a list of some of the best theme parks in the UK.

• LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort - Located in Berkshire, LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort is an enchanting park designed primarily for families and young children. It features over 55 interactive rides, live shows, and attractions inspired by the iconic LEGO bricks.
• Chessington World of Adventures - This fantastic Surrey theme park also includes a zoo and aquarium, making it perfect for a family day out. Chessington’s Zoo and SEA LIFE Centre add an educational element, allowing your little ones to learn about and observe over 1,000 animals.
• Alton Towers – As the UK's largest and one of the most famous theme parks, Alton Towers is a dream destination for families. Older and taller children will love iconic roller coasters like Nemesis and Oblivion, while younger kids and toddlers can enjoy the magic of CBeebies Land, live shows, and interactive play zones. 
• Thorpe Park – Thorpe Park boasts some of the UK's most thrilling rides, including the world-famous Stealth, Saw – The Ride, and Colossus. It is not so much a place for young kids but for thrill-seeking teens or anyone who loves roller coasters and water rides, with attractions like Tidal Wave and Storm Surge offering wet and wild fun. 
• Paultons Park – Paultons Park is the perfect destination for families with younger children. Known for its Peppa Pig World, the park is home to kid-sized rides, play areas, and plenty of photo opportunities with Peppa and her friends. The park also includes gentle rides, animal encounters, and beautiful gardens for the best family photo selfies!
• Drayton Manor Theme Park – Featuring the beloved Thomas Land, your little ones can meet Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends on gentle, interactive rides. Take your kids to the Jolly Rocker and Cranky’s Tower, where you're sure they'll have lots of fun!

Things to Do with Kids in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is an exciting place to spend time with kids as it also boasts plenty of fun family options, including entertaining and educational visits. Take a look:

• Edinburgh Castle – Perched atop Castle Rock, visit Edinburgh Castle, the historic fortress breathing Scotland’s rich past. Explore its medieval halls and see the Crown Jewels of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny, used for centuries in the coronation of Scottish kings. While overlooking the city, your kids can experience the dungeons, live cannon fire displays, and the iconic One O’Clock Gun.
• Camera Obscura & World of Illusions – The Camera Obscura & World of Illusions offers optical illusions, holograms, and mind-bending exhibits. The camera obscura is a centuries-old device that projects a live, 360-degree view of the city. Bizarre mirror mazes, tilting rooms, and interactive science displays await all curious minds, both young and old!
• Dynamic Earth - This interactive science centre delves into the story of our planet and the natural world. From the Earth's formation to the dinosaurs' age, enjoy immersive exhibits that bring science to life. The cherry on top is the 4D cinema experience of volcanoes and storms, exactly like you were there!

Things to Do with Kids in Paris

Are you planning to take your kids to the French capital? We've got a short list of family-friendly things to do in pairs, which your kids will absolutely love!

• Disneyland Paris - During your next Paris trip, witness the magic of Disney brought to life with thrilling rides, enchanting parades, and beloved Disney characters around every corner. From the classic Peter Pan or Sleeping Beauty Castle to Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean, there’s excitement for all ages. Your little ones will love the themed lands and the nighttime fireworks!
• Jardin d'Acclimatation - Nestled in the heart of Paris, Jardin d'Acclimatation is a charming amusement park and zoo offering a wonderful mix of rides, games, and nature. Families can enjoy gentle rides like the Carousel, hop on the mini-train, or explore the playgrounds and interactive exhibits.
• Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre – After admiring the basilica's stunning white domes and exploring its beautiful interior, wander the charming and colourful Montmartre neighbourhood - cobblestone streets, art studios, cafes, and street artists make this iconic Parisian location a must-see during your Paris journey.
• Château de Versailles – If you stay longer in Paris, don't miss an opportunity to visit Château de Versailles, one of the most magnificent royal palaces in the world, with its ornate gardens, opulent Hall of Mirrors and fascinating regal history. Stroll through the vast gardens, explore the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon, and take a boat ride on the Grand Canal.
• Jardin du Luxembourg – The beautifully manicured gardens, fountains, statues, and flowerbeds are a lovely backdrop for a peaceful picnic or a walk. Kids will love the playgrounds, puppet shows, and sailing toy boats in the grand pond, while parents can relax in the shade of the Linden trees. 

Can't wait for the holidays? Plan your adventure in London, Edinburgh or Paris and create unforgettable memories with your little explorers!