Family Things to Do
Traveling is fun. But it is not always easy, in particular, when you are traveling as a family. Indeed, it becomes a tricky balancing act as you try to deal with everyone’s expectations. It is tough enough doing it at home. Imagine doing it during your vacation. All the same, putting off the trip is a far worse idea. So, rest easy as we give you the top tips to make sure everyone has a great time.
London has a lot to offer visitors regardless of age. Indeed, families can enjoy a number of activities. Moreover, they can have fun doing it together. So, no one would have an excuse to complain about being bored.
For instance, the British know how to do museums well. The whole family will enjoy exploring these places plus appreciate how much fun learning can be. Rest assured traveling with the family in London promises to be an adventure for everybody. Warner Bros. Studio Tour of the making of Harry PotterWarner Bros. Studio tour of the making of Harry Potter offers fantasy and adventure for the whole family to enjoy. Indeed, the series charmed moviegoers ever since it premiered in 2001. Though it ended in 2011, it continues to cultivate a following among the fans.
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Warner Bros. Studio tour of the making of Harry Potter lets you go behind the scenes to see how the series came to be. Imagine walking along Diagon Alley or entering the Great Hall at Hogwarts. Are you brave enough to venture into the Forbidden Forest? The Award-winning tour also displays the props used throughout the series. Their attention to detail is a testament to the passion and hard work devoted to the making of each movie. Did you know the labels for the memory vials in Professor Dumbledore’s office were hand-designed? Are you aware it took over three months to put together the Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes shop? Their dedication lends authenticity to the series. Hence, its great appeal to the fans. Despite the absence of rides, the Warner Bros. Studio tour will not disappoint the kids. Chances are the sight of the Hogwarts Express will have the whole family excited. What is more, it is possible to go inside and see how Harry and the other wizards made their way to school. From the sets to the props and costumes, experience again the adventure and fantasy that only Harry Potter can deliver. Best of all, you get to do it as a family. tips
London ZooLondon Zoo will make an animal lover out of everyone who comes to visit. It boasts of a diverse selection. Moreover, the biggest collection in the country. Indeed, no other place in the United Kingdom can match the number of species at this location, that is, more than 750 types.
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London Zoo began as a research facility in 1826. It opened as a family attraction twenty years later. As a zoo, it pioneered several firsts in the industry such as the reptile house (1849), a public aquarium (1853), and a petting zoo (1938). The petting zoo area in the Animal Adventure section is a hit with children. Indeed, anyone would want the chance to get close and personal with a variety of animals like pigs, sheep, and donkeys. However, the London Zoo is more than just a place for your amusement. It is first a scientific zoo. Hence, visitors get a valuable education about various animal species that live on land and sea as well as winged creatures – big and small. Among the top animal attractions at the London Zoo are the Tiger Territory enclosure, sunbathing lemurs, and the bughouse. The Penguin Beach is another significant attraction owing to its large pool that comes with viewing areas where visitors can marvel at the activity underwater. No wonder the London Zoo remains a popular attraction for tourists and locals. Moreover, it retains its status as one of the best zoos in the world despite being open for almost two centuries. It would not come as a surprise if it carries on for another 100 years. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
London NW1 4RY, UK
Standard ticket price:
Adult £29.25* Child £19.01Under 3 £0.00 Student £26.32* Senior £26.32* Disabled Adult £26.32* Disabled Child £19.01 Buy tickets online to save 10%. Click here to see their prices by season. Saturday - Thursday: 10AM - 6PM.Friday:10AM - 5PM
St. John's Wood Station
Natural History MuseumThe Natural History Museum serves two purposes, that is, to entertain and educate visitors about the story of the Earth. With 80 million assorted specimens under one roof and its inventory still growing each year, it is not surprising why tourists and even locals keep coming back to it.
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The Natural History Museum began as part of the British Museum in 1754. But thanks to the decision of Sir Hans Sloane to help build a dedicated home to Natural History, children and adults alike are able to enjoy and learn at the same time. In the process, visitors gain an appreciation for the past and present. Moreover, encourage people to be more considerate of their actions towards the environment. The Dinosaur gallery of the Natural History Museum is a big crowd pleaser. The roaring Tyrannosaurus Rex is one of its major stars alongside the Baryonyx and Triceratops to name a few. Yet its dinosaur collection is only one of the many reasons why kids and adults love this popular London attraction. Of particular interest to adults is the Cadogan Gallery where each item has its own story to tell. But Hope, the giant skeleton of a blue whale is bound to capture the attention of the young and old. Indeed, a family trip to London is not complete unless you spend a few hours at the Natural History Museum. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Cromwell Rd, Kensington, London SW7 5BD
Free
There is a charge for some temporary exhibitions. Open every day 10.00-17.50
Last entry 17.30 Closed 24-26 December South Kensington
London Transport MuseumThe London Transport Museum allows visitors to live through the history of London’s public transport system. It is a great way to spend a couple of hours with kids. Best of all, the family gets an education without the typical boredom that accompanies most museum visits.
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But what is so special about transportation to London? As it turns out, the link between the city’s cultural growth has a lot to do with the development of its transport system. In fact, it has been around since the 1800s. Hence, its deep roots in the society. Indeed, you can find tube maps printed on mugs, towels, and varied souvenirs. The collection at the London Transport Museum features a diverse selection of memorabilia. Among these are a horse-drawn omnibus dating back to 1805. Also on display is the original map for the tube design by Harry Beck as well as a wooden Metropolitan Railway Bogie Stock coach. The trip becomes even more interesting for kids since they can climb and check out the wagons on display. Thus, it is a great place to add to your itinerary if your kids have an obsession for any type of vehicle. Indeed, the interactive displays are a great hit for young tots. Best of all, parents do not have to worry about kids breaking anything in the exhibition. Chances are even the adults will get a kick about jumping aboard the omnibus. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Covent Garden Piazza, London WC2E 7BB, UK
Adult = £18, Concessions = £17
Children and people under 17 is Free Buy tickets online to save money. Click here. Open every day from 10:00 to 6:00pm (last entry 5:15pm)
Covent Garden
Shrek's AdventureShrek’s Adventure brings to life the enchanting world of everyone’s favorite big green ogre and his charming friends. The excitement is sure to keep the family amused and laughing all throughout their quest.
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Shrek’s Adventure affords every fan the opportunity to immerse themselves in a whimsical world. Indeed, this is a treat for everyone who enjoyed watching the movies. You can look forward to meeting many of the characters from the films. Be ready to meet the Gingerbread Man, Pinocchio, Puss in Boots, Donkey, Doris the barmaid, and of course, Princess Fiona. By the way, she is in charge of handing out 4D glasses for the magical bus ride. The VR technology is first-rate and designed to make you feel like you are part of the story. Donkey acts as your tour guide. The tour gets even more interesting after the 4D bus ride. The audience gets to participate in the story-telling segment of Shrek’s Adventure tour. At this point, visitors need to outsmart Rumpelstiltskin or else miss the chance to get back to London. To guarantee your safe return, visitors need to gather the necessary ingredients for a magic spell. The Mirror Maze of Insanity is great for kids. Moreover, it will make any adult feel like a kid again. Shrek’s Adventure is part of the Dreamworks Tour Group. So, if you are lucky to get away from Rump then you are in for a bigger treat. Indeed, Shrek’s Adventure is not your ordinary tourist attraction. Thus, it is worth checking out. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, Lambeth, London SE1 7PB, UK
Click here to see ticket prices.
You can save up to 30% if you book online. Monday to Wednesday & Friday: 10am - 4pm
Thursday: 11am - 4pm Saturday: 10am - 6pm Sunday: 10am - 5pm Westminster Subway Station
443333212001
Chessington World of AdventureChessington World of Adventure promises loads of fun for the whole family. With ten themed lands to visit, plus a zoo to explore, it might take more than a day to see it all. Hence, families even have the option to stay overnight at one of the theme park’s very own hotels. Chances are your visit to this popular London attraction will be the first of many.
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Chessington World of Adventure is a literal description of what families can expect to find. Indeed, it has something to offer every member of the family from the youngest to the oldest. In other words, kids are not the only ones who can have crazy fun while there. Each of the themed lands offers its own brand of adventure with a variety of attractions for families to try out. With more than 40 rides and attractions in the park, no doubt, it will bring out the adventurer in everyone. Notable attractions for the little adventurers are the Flying Jumbos at Zufari, the Adventure Tree and Tiny Truckers at Adventure Point, as well as the Temple of Mayhem in Wild Asia. The park also gives young children an opportunity to experience their first roller coaster ride. Thus, tots transform into brave adventurers in a flash. Consider it a child’s rite of passage to a fun world of amusement rides. Families can also enjoy many activities together as a group. Indeed, family adventurers will get a kick out of the Tomb Blaster ride at the Forbidden Kingdom. Who can resist the chance to shoot at mummies with a laser gun? Then again, why not explore Zufari as a family. Get up close and personal with African animals like the Grevy’s Zebra, White Rhino, and Giraffe. On the other hand, the family can go for a ride on the high seas at the Black Buccaneer. At Chessington World of Adventure, perhaps the only problem would be figuring out which themed land your family will explore. In addition, which ride to try out first. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Leatherhead Rd, Chessington KT9 2NE, UK
Online price = £29, On the day price = £46.50
All Inclusive Ticket = £38 ( Online price), On the day price = £61.50 Buy tickets online to save money. Book early and save up to 40%. Click here. Monday - Sunday: 10AM - 5PM
Check daily schedules here. Chessington South Train Station
Madame TussaudsMadame Tussauds London is a favorite tourist attraction. It is no surprise when you consider who are inside. Indeed, it features who’s who in the world. Thus, it offers everyone the prime opportunity to get close to a famous personality they have always admired from afar albeit a waxwork figure.
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Named after the famous French wax sculptor Marie Tussaud, Madame Tussauds in London remains a popular tourist attraction ever since it opened its first exhibit in 1835. The realism of her wax figures can make anyone look twice to make sure it is only a replica. Among the personalities you can expect to meet and greet at Madame Tussauds London are movie celebrities, legends in sports, and even key players in politics from around the world. Of course, the British royal family are also included. So if you have ever wanted to have a selfie with James Bond, go ahead and do so. Take your pick of actors who played the popular British spy. Indeed, no poles and ropes can get in the way of your photo opportunity. Visitors to Madame Tussauds London can get as close as they want to their favorite personality. Indeed, close enough to touch or to hug and kiss their idol’s likeness. The collection at Madame Tussauds continues to evolve. Hence, its relevance and staying power. Be sure to check out their YouTube section featuring well-known social media celebrities. Anyone up for a selfie with power couple Kimye? While other branches of Madame Tussauds do exist throughout the world, nothing beats a visit to where it all began in London. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Marylebone Rd, Marylebone, London NW1 5LR, UK
Standard Ticket = £29, On the day = £35
Save when you book online in advance.Click here. Baker Street Station Subway Station
London DungeonThe London Dungeon is for the brave who want to learn about the dark side of the city’s past. Indeed, the city has had its share of ups and downs throughout its over 2,000 years of existence. It has fought in numerous wars and survived the Black Death. Moreover, it rose from the ashes of the Great Fire of London. All these scenarios are very different from how the city looks today. So are you ready to experience the dark past of London? But will you live to tell about it?
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Despite its ghastly name and reputation, you can expect top rate entertainment when you visit the London Dungeon. Moreover, get an amusing history lesson going as far back as ten centuries ago. To some extent, the London Dungeon comes across as the macabre counterpart of Madame Tussauds. Yet the London Dungeon does not have wax figures. In fact, it features live actors who usher the audience from one show to the next. 18 live interactive shows take place in the London Dungeon. Each represents a sordid tale in the city’s past. Among the high points are The Jack The Ripper Show and Sweeney Todd’s Barber Shop combined with a trip to Mrs. Lovett’s Pie Shop. The talented performers and special effects are designed to keep the audience on edge. The eerie ambiance with live rats and cockroaches along with the bizarre smells and sounds draws them deeper into the drama and suspense. Hence, it is the ultimate sensory experience. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, Lambeth, London SE1 7PB, UK
Monday to Wednesday & Friday, Sunday: 10am - 5pm
Thursday: 11am - 5pm Saturday: 10am - 6pm You can also check schedules here. Westminster Subway Station
Sea Life at the London AquariumSea Life at the London Aquarium is a marine wonderland. Since it opened in 1997, the place continues to attract tourists as well as locals. But beyond its entertainment value, the three-story building aims to educate people. In doing so, foster a greater appreciation for life under the sea.
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Sea Life at the London Aquarium presents 14 special themed zones each designed to mimic the natural habitat of the various marine species living there. These state of the art facilities make it possible for them to survive and thrive much to the enjoyment of visitors. No doubt, the over 500 marine species from all over the world, from the arctic to the tropical, will leave visitors in awe of the wonder of nature under the sea. The striking plant life and vegetation are also a remarkable sight. Indeed, it would be quite easy to just sit and gaze into the tanks and watch the sea creatures go about their lives. Thus, the experience could even be therapeutic for many. Among its residents are the crowd favorite sea turtles, clown fish, seahorses, and octopuses. The penguins are also popular. Imagine seeing these flightless birds in the middle of a bustling metropolis like London. The tiger sharks are one of its stars – in fact, 40 of them call the London Aquarium their home. But they are only one of the wide variety of sharks housed here and part of the Shark Walk. Other notable residents are the Cuban crocodiles who are part of the Rain forests of the World themed zone. Meanwhile, sea creatures native to British waters are in the Tidal Reach zone. Feeding time at the London Aquarium is another noteworthy treat for visitors to witness. Imagine seeing the diverse collection of marine species come out of their hiding places to eat. What is more, visitors can even participate feeding them. You can inquire about feeding times for your favorite animal at the entrance. Kids and adults alike will have a blast as they experience this wonderland under water at the Sea Life London Aquarium. Without a doubt, the views are better than anything you or your kids will see on any digital device. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Battersea Park Children's ZooBattersea Park Children’s Zoo will make any child an animal lover. Moreover, let them experience the simple joys of playing in the sun. Thus, it is a win-win destination for any family looking to enjoy the outdoors with the kids while in London.
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Battersea Park Children’s Zoo almost shut down in 2003. But the generosity and passion of the Heap family for animals has kept it open to date for everyone’s benefit. In particular, the children. At Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, young kids get to meet a variety of small animals in an intimate setting. Some of the creatures are even endangered species. Hence, kids learn the value of preservation. The animal feeding sessions are one of the highlights of the zoo for children. Kids can even help the zoo’s friendly keepers. Best of all, the staff are patient and eager to answer all of the questions the kids might have about the animals. In addition to the animals, the zoo has other child friendly activities. The Kids Zone serves as their play area. It is equipped with a trampoline where kids can burn off excess energy or they can build sandcastles in the sandpit. The arts and crafts sessions offered also give kids the chance to express their creativity. Meanwhile, the parents can relax and watch their kids enjoy playtime while seated at the nearby picnic benches. Moms do not have to worry about food, as there are two cafes at the zoo. Moreover, the prices are reasonable. Likewise, various amenities like baby changing and baby feeding rooms are available. Moving around the zoo in a buggy is not a problem since the place is also wheelchair accessible. tips
BASIC INFORMATION
Battersea Park, London SW11 4NJ, UK
Children (2 to 15 years) = £7.95 , Adult = £9.95,
Family (2 adults & 2 children or 1 adult & 3 children) = £32.50 Spring/Summer: 10.00am – 5.30pm
Autumn/Winter: 10.00am - 4.30pm or dusk Open all year except 25th and 26th December Battersea Park Train Station
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Date Modified: 9/28/2019