London is home to some of the world's best museums. Following is a list of London museums that are particularly popular with children, but parents can also enjoy them.
Museum of Childhood
The Museum of Childhood is a branch of the Victoria & Albert Museum and is located in Bethnal Green. As its name suggests, the museum celebrates childhood and houses one of the world's finest collections of childhood-related objects, from dolls and dolls' houses to toys and games to children's clothing and childcare equipment. Some of the objects date back to the 16th century. The Museum of Childhood is particularly committed to its younger visitors and hosts a range of exhibitions, events, and workshops for children.
Science Museum
The Science Museum, located in South Kensington, is a feast for the senses. Several hands-on exhibits offer children a truly interactive educational experience. With galleries devoted to the fields of agriculture, flight, medicine, weather, and more, children and adults alike are sure to have fun while learning something new. The Science Museum is also home to an IMAX 3D Cinema.
Natural History Museum
Next door to the Science Museum is the Natural History Museum, where visitors can walk in the footsteps of dinosaurs, take a virtual tour of Mars, or explore the ocean's mysteries. The Natural History Museum is particularly family-friendly. Not only are several of the exhibits aimed at children, but there are also baby change facilities available, and the cafés are equipped with bottle-warmers and high chairs.
London Transport Museum
The London Transport Museum is located in the heart of Covent Garden and features exhibits on Victorian transport, the history of the London Underground, and the role of London transport today. You'll find old Routemaster buses, trams, taxis, and a steam locomotive on display in the museum.
HMS Belfast
The HMS Belfast played an instrumental role in World War II. Now anchored in the River Thames, in the shadow of Tower Bridge, the famous cruiser is a popular floating naval museum. Several interactive displays depict life on board the ship during World War II. Visitors will also find exhibits devoted to the history of the Royal Navy. The HMS Belfast often hosts special exhibitions and educational events, and there are family activities on board on the last weekend of every month.
The Clink Prison Museum
The Clink Prison Museum tells the macabre history of the prison that first opened near London Bridge in the 12th century. The prison, known as the “Clink” since the 15th century, has been closed since 1780, but its chilling past lives on through tales of its most notorious prisoners and hands-on displays of instruments of torture. The Clink Prison Museum is not appropriate for very young children.
The Cartoon Museum
In contrast to the Clink Prison Museum, the Cartoon Museum offers a truly “comical” experience. The Cartoon Museum is devoted to the art of cartoon, caricature, and comic art, with displays dating back to the 18th century. In addition to its permanent collections, The Cartoon Museum also hosts special exhibitions and Half-Term Cartooning Workshops for children.
The number of interesting museums London has on offer is overwhelming, but the museums mentioned above are sure to be a hit with children.
London for Children: Heritage Attractions
London for Children: Parks & Gardens
London for Children: Special Attractions
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