London awaits, a treasure trove of family fun! Dive into history at the Tower of London, spot dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum, or embark on a magical journey at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter.
With exciting parks, interactive exhibits, and thrilling attractions like the London Eye and LEGOLAND Windsor, there’s adventure around every corner. Let London spark your family’s imagination and create unforgettable memories together. However, it’s a good idea at many attractions to book in advance. With this in mind, here are eight of our favorites. So if you are visiting England’s capital this summer, we invite you to unlock the magic of London!
The Tower of London
Step back in time and explore this historic fortress, which is comprised of several buildings and towers, including the White Tower, which was the original fortress built by William the Conqueror. Surrounding the buildings are defensive walls and a moat, adding to the fortress’s imposing appearance. Families can marvel at the Crown Jewels, walk along the castle walls, and learn about the tower’s fascinating history.
Although hosting monarchs such as Henry III and Elizabeth I, The Tower of London is perhaps best known as a prison. Over the years, it housed many notable prisoners, including Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey, and Sir Walter Raleigh. The Tower also served as a site for executions, with several high-profile figures meeting their end within its walls.
The London Eye
Take a ride on the iconic London Eye for panoramic views of the city skyline. Kids will love seeing London from above and spotting famous landmarks like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Buckingham Palace.
Also known as the Millennium Wheel, The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel situated on the South Bank of the River Thames in London. It stands at a height of 135 metres and has a diameter of 120 metres, making it one of the tallest in the world. There are 32 sealed and air-conditioned passenger capsules, each capable of holding up to 25 people, and a complete rotation takes approximately 30 minutes, giving passengers ample time to take in the sights and capture memorable photos of the city below.
LEGOLAND Windsor
Just a short drive from London, LEGOLAND Windsor offers a world of adventure for LEGO lovers of all ages. From thrilling rides and live shows to immersive LEGO-themed attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
LEGOLAND Windsor is specifically designed for families with children aged 2 to 12, although it has attractions suitable for all ages. The park features a variety of themed areas, each offering its own unique experiences, including a wide range of rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and interactive experiences. Popular rides include The Dragon roller coaster, the Viking River Splash water ride, and the LEGO City Driving School, where children can learn to drive their own LEGO cars. The park also features live shows, character meet-and-greets, and educational activities.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
Embark on a magical journey through the world of Harry Potter at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Families can explore iconic sets, props, and costumes from the beloved film series and even step into the Great Hall of Hogwarts.
One of the highlights of the Studio Tour is the opportunity to step onto the set of the Hogwarts Express. Visitors can board the legendary train, peek into the compartments, and even pose for photos with a luggage trolley disappearing through the wall at Platform 9¾. The Studio Tour also offers interactive experiences and hands-on activities for visitors of all ages. Guests can try their hand at casting spells with a wand, ride a broomstick in front of a green screen, and even sample Butterbeer, the famous wizarding beverage.
Hampton Court Palace
Step back in time to the Tudor era at Hampton Court Palace, one of the most significant palaces in England and once home to King Henry VIII. Families can wander through the magnificent palace rooms, explore the beautiful gardens, and even participate in interactive historical reenactments.
One of the most significant palaces in England, boasting a rich history spanning over 500 years, Hampton Court Palace is steeped in history and intrigue. It is also renowned for its stunning gardens and grounds. These encompass formal gardens, landscaped lawns, and tranquil water features, including the famous Privy Garden and the Great Fountain Garden. The sprawling maze, originally planted in the late 17th century, provides entertainment for visitors of all ages.
London Transport Museum
Delve into the fascinating history of London’s transport system at this interactive museum. Kids can climb aboard vintage buses, trams, and trains, and learn about the evolution of transportation in the city.
In addition to its impressive collection of vehicles, the museum features interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and hands-on activities that bring the history of London’s transport to life. Visitors can step inside a mock-up of an early Underground carriage, try their hand at driving a bus simulator, or explore a recreation of a 19th-century street scene complete with horse-drawn omnibuses. Whether you’re a history buff, a transport enthusiast, or simply curious about London’s past, the museum offers something for everyone to enjoy and explore.
The Natural History Museum
Get up close with dinosaurs, learn about the Earth’s natural history, and visit the famous blue whale skeleton. The museum also features interactive exhibits and educational programs for visitors of all ages, including hands-on workshops, guided tours, and special exhibitions.
Housing over 80 million specimens spanning the entire spectrum of natural history, from fossils and minerals to plants, animals, and human artifacts, its collections are among the largest and most comprehensive in the world. One of the museum’s most popular attractions is the Dinosaurs gallery, which features a spectacular collection of dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and interactive displays. Highlights include a life-sized animatronic T-Rex and the famous ‘Dino Snores’ sleepovers, where visitors can spend the night surrounded by dinosaurs!
Windsor Castle
With its long history spanning over 900 years, Windsor Castle is not only one of the oldest and largest inhabited castles in the world but also one of the official residences of the British monarch. Visitors may even catch a glimpse of the King or other members of the royal family during their visit, as the castle continues to host official receptions, banquets, and ceremonies throughout the year.
One of the highlights of a visit to Windsor Castle is the State Apartments, a series of opulent rooms that are still used by the royal family for official ceremonies and entertaining. Visitors can marvel at the lavish décor, priceless artworks, and exquisite furnishings, including works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto.