Sightseeing London is great with kids, but it can be very expensive. This however is kids London a London visit taking in ten attractions that will please the whole family and for free.
The Natural History Museum
Situated in South Kensington the National History Museum offers free entry to all. For kids there are explorer backpacks which as well as a trail or quiz to help them discover the museum, also include a pith helmet and binoculars so the young explorers feel the part. The museum has backpacks covering several different areas of the museum, these are free to use but a £25 returnable deposit is required
For older kids discovery guides appropriate to the child's age are available for £1 each from the museum shop or can be download for free from the Natural History Museum website
The Science Museum
Next door to the Natural History museum the Science museum has a huge area of hands on activities for children. Called launch pad the children can try their hands at building archways, wiring electric currents, experimenting with fluid flows and much more. There are also daily free science shows, the content of these vary but will frequently explore the science behind such things as bubbles, or rockets.
The Diana, Princess of Wales, Memorial Playground
Situated in Kensington Gardens near Kensington Palace the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial playground has a huge pirate ship as its centerpiece. Children can climb the crows nest, sight the cowboy fort, or Indian teepee village, walk the plank or simply play in the sea of sand that surrounds the ship.
The playground is fenced and staffed. Kids under 12 are allowed in. No adults are permitted unless accompanied by kids. There is also a cafe and toilets.
Maritime Greenwich: The Maritime Museum, Greenwich Park, the Royal Observatory and the Cutty Sark
A short ride on the Docklands Light Railway out of central London, Maritime Greenwich is a World Heritage Site. Kids will enjoy standing astride the meridian and visiting the Royal Observatory
The maritime museum has a good selection of hands on activities for kids including, sending semaphore and morse messages, loading a cargo ship and captaining a supertanker on the Bridge Simulator.
The Royal Parks
Immaculately kept wide open spaces with plenty of room for playing and running. Highlights for kids include the Diana memorial Fountain Hyde Park, a water based sculpture where visitors are encouraged to cool their feet; the pelicans of St James's Park; the Princess of Wales Memorial Playground and the Peter Pan Statue in Kensington Gardens
The Houses of Parliament
The centre of democracy in the UK the Houses of Parliament are free to tour for UK visitors who should contact their Member of Parliament to request a free ticket. Overseas visitors may tour during parliament's summer recess (broadly August and September) this is by paid for ticket available in advance by visiting the website of the Houses of Parliament.
Changing of the Guard
Every other day the ceremony of the Changing of the Guard takes place outside Buckingham Palace.
Other Royal events happen each year in London which are free to attend. Most notable is the Trouping of the colour parade which marks the Sovereign's official birthday and takes place in June. One week before the trouping of the colour is a rehearsal named the Cornels review again this is free to view.
Westminster Abbey: The Spiritual Home of the Church of England
Attending a service at Westminster Abbey is free. Whilst it is not possible to view many of the historic attractions of the Abbey whilst attending a service the visitor will gain an insight into the atmosphere of this special place. The Westminster Choristers will often sing at services. Service times are posted on the cathedral's website
Harrods and Hamleys: The Biggest Department and Toy Stores in the Capital
Two huge toyshops, most kids could spend days in here. Both stores have demonstration areas for toys where the kids can get their hands on the merchandise. It's best to prepare for some nagging form the offspring prior to entering!
Covent Garden: Entertaining Street Performers
Not strictly free as all performers will pass at hat round at the end of their act, but certainly entertaining. The home of street theatre.
Geocaching: Sightseeing the Capital Without A Tour Guide
Use the locals as a tour guide. Many caches are placed at points of interest and the cache page will often explain the history and significance of the place. Whereas caches placed off the beaten track help the visitor to see parts of London that other tourist's miss.
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