London may have a reputation for being pricey, but a trip to the capital with the kids for some summer fun doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of free family attractions in London to discover, from the city’s many museums to its idyllic green spaces. This list of summer activities gives you an overview of some of London’s top boredom-busters that won’t cost you a penny.
1. Natural History Museum
Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD
Uncover the wonders of our natural world and enjoy a fun day out in London: from minute creepy-crawlies to colossal dinosaur displays, the museum’s extensive exhibitions offer a huge amount for little ones to see and learn. The bird and mammal galleries with their life-size models are particularly worth a visit, and you can even experience an interactive earthquake simulation in the Volcanoes and Earthquakes exhibit! Kids will be enchanted from the moment they step through the door.
2. Tower Bridge
London SE1 2UP
Pay a visit to one of the most iconic landmarks and free places to go in London: Tower Bridge. Sometimes erroneously referred to as “London Bridge” (that’s the next one along!), this ornate 19th-century suspension bridge is impressive to behold. Take a stroll across it and admire the river views—including an excellent view of the Tower of London—or nab a family selfie from the bank on the south side. For some extra excitement, check out the bridge lift schedule to see when they’ll be raising the bridge to let a ship pass through. It’s quite the spectacle—and no ticket needed!
3. Uber Boat along the Thames
While you’re by the water, another great (almost) free attraction for families is to hop on an Uber Boat along the river. Formerly known as the “Thames Clippers”, these riverboat services are part of the London transport network and depart regularly from numerous stops along the bank. You’ll have to pay the price of the ticket—but it’s far cheaper than an official boat tour!
You can head west towards the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the London Eye, or travel east out towards Greenwich and the Cutty Sark—a historic sailing ship on display by the water. Both directions offer fantastic views and a fresh, fun way to experience the city.
4. Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens
London W2 2UH
London is full of beautiful green spaces for soaking up the summer sun, and one of the best things to do with family is to hit Hyde Park in the city centre. There’s oodles of space for kids to run around and let off steam, as well as a designated play area with swings, a slide and climbing frames. You can admire the swans on the Serpentine and go for a paddle in the Princes Diana Memorial Fountain.
Right next door to Hyde Park are the picturesque Kensington Gardens, where fans of Peter Pan can explore their favourite character’s stomping ground and visit the official statue of the boy who never grew up.
5. Science Museum
Exhibition Road, London SW7 2DD
Another of the most popular attractions for families is the Science Museum in South Kensington. This hands-on museum is packed with interactive science and technology exhibits that will entertain and educate. Check out the life-size Apollo 11 Eagle model in the Exploring Space exhibition, for example, or examine a slice of a Boeing 747 jumbo jet in the Flight gallery. The museum regularly holds free workshops for kids, too—take a look at the website to see what’s on.
6. Museum of London
150 London Wall, London EC2Y 5HN
For free kids’ activities, you can’t beat the Museum of London. As the name suggests, this museum is dedicated to the city itself. Learn about its past, present and future, from its Roman and Medieval roots to modern-day developments. A particular highlight is the full-scale recreation of a Victorian street, where kids and grown-ups alike can immerse themselves in the world of Victorian England. Walk the cobbled streets and peer into the shop windows—don’t forget to take a peek inside the toyshop!
Its sister museum, the Museum of London Docklands, is another great attraction for families. Located by the river in the east of the city (West India Quay, London E14 4AL), it focuses on London’s history as a maritime and trading hub. Here, kids can get stuck into yet more hands-on exhibitions and explore “Sailortown” —an immersive rendering of the old London docklands as they would have looked in the 1800s.
7. Trafalgar Square
London WC2N 5DN
No trip to London would be complete without a visit to this famous central square. Admire Nelson’s Column, watch the fountains and clamber on the stone lions in this buzzing pedestrianised zone. You can also check out the latest installation on the Fourth Plinth—an ancient column that plays host to a rotating display of large-scale sculptures by different artists.
8. Mudchute Farm
Pier St, London E14 3HP
A little slice of countryside in the city: if you’ve got kids who love animals, then a trip to Mudchute Farm in the east is a must. This real working farm is home to a host of animals, from sheep, pigs and goats to ducks, geese and even llamas. Set in 32 acres of green space, it’s also a great spot for a family picnic. The farm offers regular tours where children and groups can learn more about the animals, as well as special activities like donkey rides and weaving courses (some of these cost a small fee). Check out the website for details on upcoming events or to book a guided tour.
9. Platform 9¾
King’s Cross Station, Euston Rd, London N1 9AL
One of the best attractions for families in London and an absolute essential for any young Harry Potter fan: head over to King’s Cross Station and see the very place where Harry, Ron and Hermione board the Hogwarts Express. Kids can get a snap of themselves with the famous luggage trolley, too!
10. Granary Square fountains
London N1C 4AA
If you’re looking to cool off on a hot summer’s day, take a trip to Granary Square. Located by the canal just behind King’s Cross Station, this fully pedestrianised area is home to over 1,000 fountains for kids to splash around in—the perfect free summer activity. Each jet is individually lit and controlled, and they put on an all-day choreographed display from morning until dusk, so there’s plenty of time for fun in the sun!
