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Previous to our trip, I had heard anyone and everyone rave about London, and better yet, how perfect of a city it was for kids. When planning this trip, I realized that there were numerous things to do for both adults and kids. London with toddlers is incredibly doable and enjoyable. Of course a Kid’s High Tea isn’t the same as going to the ritz, but at least we all got to experience it and enjoy it together.
This was my first time visiting London, so although I may not be an expert I hope this helps if you are planning a trip to London with toddlers. If you are looking for more tips for traveling with toddlers or kids, you can read that post here.
Where to stay in London with toddlers
When looking for hotels with kids, I ideally want a second space for when they are sleeping and breakfast that comes with the hotel. London can be pricey, so we decided to not reserve a suite where we stayed, but they had a wonderful breakfast (packed with variety) as well as a short walk away from a train station.
Hilton London Metropole
This hotel is where we stayed (perfect if you are a HIlton card holder, or want points during your stay). We were able to access their executive lounge, breakfast and they also have a tea in the afternoon that was included in our stay.
The Ampersand Hotel
This luxury five star hotel really caters to kids and would be a perfect stay in London for littles.
If you are looking for more suggestions, I suggest looking to Tiny Travelship for hotel recommendatins for kids, they have a great post on London stays here.
Tips to traveling London with toddlers
Gear
First, bring the smallest stroller you have. We decided to not bring a double stroller and just have a single travel one along with a carrier and that was definitely the right decision. I did hear buses are better for kids, but a lot of times the subway ‘tube’ is more convenient. The train stations often don’t have elevators so you will be walking your stroller up and down.
Hotel Location
Be strategic on where your hotel is when traveling with London with toddlers. If you’re tired or just don’t want to eat in your neighborhood you want good walkable options so you don’t need to hop on the Tube again. You most likely will spend a good amount of time in that area (especially if you are going back for naps). We opted for naps on the go, thanks to the carrier.
Airport
We flew into Glasgow and it was very convenient to get from the airport to the city center. It was as smooth and efficient as it could have been.
What to do in London with toddlers
Natural History Museum
This museum is lovely for kids and adults! Surprisingly the restaurant at the museum was really great. We ate lunch there and I was pretty impressed. They had healthy options and it wasn’t incredibly expensive compared to where you would eat elsewhere in London.
Transportation Museum
This was so fun! You DO have to pay for an annual pass and book the time slot you want. The museum was definitely geared towards kids.
The Postal Museum
We didn’t to go on our trip but I’ve heard it’s fabulous. It’s not free, but is supposed to be a great visit with kids.
Parks & Playgrounds
This one is obvious if you have littles. We enjoyed the playground at Hyde Park as well as near Buckingham Palace. The perfect compromise for something you want to do followed by getting their energy out. We didn’t have time to go to the Princess Diana Memorial Playground but that is supposed to be great!
Kids High Tea
After your visit to the Natural History Museum, check into your reservation at the Jurassic High Tea at the Ampersand Hotel. Have tea, a fun cocktail and numerous science and dinosaur treats.
Not everything has to be perfectly “kid-friendly”
Bring them along with what you want to do as well, not everything has to be for the young ones.
Where to eat in London with toddlers
I found most restaurants pretty kid-friendly with high chairs and food options. We had breakfast at our hotel every morning which is ideal. Here are a few we loved.
The Briciole Restaurant
We discovered this place because it was walkable to our hotel and ended up going twice for dinner. Perfect for kids with kid-friendly food items, high chairs and an amazing staff.
Punjab Indian restaurant
There are so many good Indian restaurants in London and we wanted to at least one if not a few. If you find yourself in Covenant Garden, this is a great option.
Dishoom Carnaby
Clip-on high chair for the booth and a kids menu – two major perks checked. Dishoom is pretty well known and has a few locations in the city. I would make reservations as they get very busy (for good reason, it was delicious).
34 Mayfair
Although we didn’t eat here, we had reservations for a brunch and the timing wasn’t ideal. They do have a kid’s brunch menu. I would recommend reservations!
Qubic Cafe
If you need a pick-me up before the Transportation museum visit this beautiful cafe, get a baked good for your littles and be on your way.
Cafe Kitsune
Following a visit to Hyde Park Playground we ventured to Cafe Kitsune for Matcha and treats for the kids. They also have a lot of seating inside and some outside for the kids to walk around.
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