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Top Free Things To Do With Kids In London

Unlock London's hidden treasures for family fun without breaking the bank!

A child and an adult are sitting on the floor of a grand hall, engaged in an activity involving paper and small wooden objects. The arched ceiling and architectural details suggest they are in a museum. A large whale skeleton is suspended above them.
nhm.org

London may have a reputation for being pricey, but guess what? We've cracked the code to having a blast with your kids without emptying your wallet! Get ready to explore the city's free and fabulous family-friendly attractions that'll make both your kids and your budget jump for joy. Read on to discover the top things to do for free with your kids in London!

Natural History Museum

A group of children stand in awe, looking up at a large, life-like Tyrannosaurus rex exhibit in a dimly lit museum. The dinosaur is illuminated with blue light, highlighting its detailed features. Shadows of other dinosaurs are visible on the wall in the background.
nhm.org

Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD

Step into a world where history comes to life, and the past roars back with a vengeance at the Natural History Museum in London. The magnificent Alfred Waterhouse building, a masterpiece itself, houses a treasure trove of over 70 million specimens. From the jaw-dropping animatronic T-Rex that's a hit with the kids to the spellbinding Earth Galleries that unveil the mysteries of our planet, this museum is a free wonderland for families. Don't miss the chance to take a thrilling ride through the Earth's core on the earthquake simulator or explore the Darwin Centre, where 80 million specimens find their home. And the best part? It won't cost you a penny (though donations are welcome)! Plus, if you're lucky, you might catch one of their fascinating temporary exhibitions or the breathtaking Wildlife Photographer of the Year showcase. For a dino-mite day out with your little explorers, the Natural History Museum is the ultimate destination. And when you're ready to refuel, nearby Hyde Park offers the perfect picnic spot to recharge before your next adventure!

Sky Garden

A modern, spacious indoor garden with large, curved glass windows showing a cityscape. Sunlight pours in, illuminating plants and people sitting at tables. The architecture features metal beams and a sleek design, with a mix of greenery and seating areas.
Sky Garden via Facebook

1, Sky Garden Walk, London EC3M 8AF

Escape the urban jungle and soar high above the city at the Sky Garden, London's best-kept secret garden hidden atop the 'Walkie-Talkie' building. It's a green haven in the sky that'll make both kids and adults feel like urban explorers. Don't forget to book your free tickets in advance to secure your spot! Inside, the indoor rainforest on the top floor is a must-see wonderland for the little ones. While you're here, soak in panoramic views of iconic landmarks like The Shard and Tower Bridge. And if your family's appetite calls, you can savor a delightful meal at one of the restaurants or cafes with a view. With the Sky Garden, you'll have a high-flying, leafy adventure that won't break the bank!

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

An outdoor park area under construction, featuring wooden walkways, a playground structure with rope nets, and water fountains. In the background, there are cranes and partially built buildings amidst urban development. The foreground includes decorative rocks and plants.
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park via Facebook

E20

Venture into the land of imagination and adventure at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, where the fun is as boundless as the Olympic spirit itself. The Tumbling Bay play area is a dream come true for kids, featuring swings, slides, treehouses, and even squashy orange hills to conquer. Plus, there's a climbing wall that'll make your little explorers feel like champions. And the best part? It's all free! But that's just the start of this playground paradise. Take a leisurely stroll through parklands, where you can refuel at the Timber Lodge Café.

Fancy a dip? The Aquatics Centre is open for swimming and diving sessions, or you can pedal your way to fun at the VeloPark. Don't forget the London Stadium, now home to West Ham and host to thrilling events. The Olympic Park is still evolving, with exciting new cultural destinations and more on the horizon. Located in Stratford's East End, it's your ticket to a day of free family fun in the heart of London!

Vauxhall City Farm

A fluffy rabbit with brown, white, and black fur sits on a concrete surface by a wooden log and a large plastic tube. The rabbit's ears are upright, and it is facing the camera, appearing curious and alert.
vauxhallcityfarm.org

165 Tyers St, London SE11 5HS

Discover a pocket of countryside charm right in the heart of London at Vauxhall City Farm. Here, the city's hustle and bustle fade away, making room for alpacas, farmyard animals, and even a few friendly cats. It may be compact, but it's packed with excitement. Don't be surprised to stumble upon a duck pond, an ecology garden teeming with life (including a stag beetle nursery!), and a community allotment that plays a role in vibrant spinning classes. While entry is technically free, donations are happily accepted to support this urban oasis. More than 100 animals, including alpacas and rare-breed goats, call this place home. You might even recognize the alpacas from their screen debut in 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens'!

For a tasty treat, head to The Old Dairy café, where you can savor seasonal delights made from local ingredients. And if your little ones dream of pony rides, you can make it happen here. Vauxhall City Farm is not just a visit; it's an experience that combines education, community, and furry friends, all while being right at the doorstep of London's iconic landmarks. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:30 AM to 4 PM, this farm is your ticket to an animal-filled adventure without breaking the bank.

Horniman Museum

A large walrus exhibit is displayed prominently in the center of a museum room. The setting includes various other glass display cases with different specimens and artifacts along the walls. An ornate balcony and archway are visible above.
horniman.ac.uk

100 London Rd, London SE23 3PQ

Roam through the fascinating world of the Horniman Museum and Gardens, where Victorian charm meets modern family fun. Little explorers adore the colossal walrus and the comical dodo, while parents appreciate the rich history. Located in the heart of South East London, this gem offers a delightful array of activities without costing a penny. As you stroll through the museum's captivating exhibits, you'll also fall in love with the lush garden, offering stunning Central London views and hosting a mini petting zoo with rabbits and llamas. For those seeking extra excitement, there's a paid butterfly farm and aquarium. The beautifully landscaped gardens are perfect for picnics, and on clear days, you can catch a glimpse of the city skyline. Let your kids create melodies on giant musical instruments scattered across the garden, or embark on a farm tour with alpacas, sheep, guinea pigs, and rabbits. When hunger strikes, the museum's cafe and weekend food markets have something for everyone. Don't forget to explore the Horniman Triangle playground, with its circular sandpit, climbing boulder, and interactive sand-play areas. So, immerse yourself in history, nature, and family fun at the Horniman, where every visit is an adventure waiting to happen. Check their website for upcoming events and exhibitions!

Crystal Palace Park

Two large, green dinosaur statues are situated in a wooded area with bare trees under a clear blue sky. One dinosaur stands on a rock, while the other is lying on the ground in front of it. Some greenery and plants can be seen around the statues.
crystalpalacepark.org

Thicket Rd, London SE19 2GA

Step into a prehistoric paradise at Crystal Palace Park, where dinosaurs once roamed, and kids can embark on their own Jurassic adventure. The park boasts an enchanting collection of vintage dinosaur statues that, while not 100% accurate, are utterly captivating for young paleontologists. As a bonus, there's a dinosaur-themed playground nearby for even more dino-fueled fun! Explore the 80-hectare park's lush surroundings, including the picturesque lake, where life-sized dinosaurs lurk among the vegetation. From the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex to the gentle Brontosaurus, these colossal sculptures are a delight to discover. But that's not all; Crystal Palace Park also offers a free farm, weekend markets, and a playground with a giant sandpit filled with life-sized fossils. When it's time to refuel, you'll find excellent cafes in the park and nearby town. Make sure to check out Green and Browns, a local favorite serving kid and adult-friendly menus. 

Platform 9 3/4 at King's Cross Station

A person in a purple shirt and jeans is posed as if they are running into a brick wall beneath a black sign that reads Platform 9¾. Their left hand is touching the sign, while their right hand and leg are against the wall. A luggage cart is partially embedded in the wall.
Paige Wunder

King's Cross Station, Euston Road, London N1 9AL 

Calling all Potterheads! At King's Cross Station, you can step into the wizarding world of Harry Potter and make your magical journey to Hogwarts via Platform 9 3/4. While Muggles might find platforms 9 and 10 separated by tracks, a visit to the station concourse will reveal the iconic platform hidden within the brick wall. Look out for the luggage trolley embedded in the wall, and let your imagination run wild as you pretend to embark on your own wizarding adventure. The trolley is accessible at all hours, and the best part is, you don't need to spend a single Galleon for a magical photo op. If you're feeling fancy, have a professional photo taken with a Hogwarts house scarf, available inside the Harry Potter shop next door from 9 am to 9 pm daily. Just be prepared for queues during school holidays and festive seasons; arriving early ensures you're first in line to capture the magic. And as a bonus tidbit, did you know that J.K. Rowling chose Kings Cross for the Hogwarts Express because it's where her parents first met on a train to Scotland? So, whether you're a Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, or Slytherin, Platform 9 3/4 is a must-visit for Potter enthusiasts. 

Science Museum

A child and an adult engage with a brightly colored interactive display featuring circular lights in a colorful, futuristic-looking room. The scene is lit with vibrant pink, purple, and white lighting, creating an energetic and playful atmosphere.
sciencemuseum.org

Exhibition Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 2DD

The Science Museum in London is a playground of innovation, boasting seven floors of mind-boggling exhibits, from the Apollo 10 command module to a thrilling flight simulator. Kids, brace yourselves for the Wonderlab on level 3, where over 50 interactive shows and demonstrations await to ignite your curiosity. For the tiny tots, the Pattern Pod introduces them to the fascinating world of patterns in contemporary science, while Launch Pad is a hands-on wonderland where budding scientists can explore fundamental principles. But wait, there's more! Delve into the wonders of space with the Exploring Space galleries featuring the Spacelab 2 X-ray telescope and full-scale models of space probes. And for some cinematic magic, the IMAX cinema showcases captivating 3D scientific films. The museum is a treasure trove of human achievements, and the best part is, it's free! So, embrace your inner scientist and embark on an educational adventure. Check out the website for exciting events and don't forget to explore the shop for quirky toys. Plus, adults can get their dose of science at the Dana Centre's free lectures and performances. Science is cool, and this museum proves it!

Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground

Children and adults play on a large wooden pirate ship structure in an outdoor playground. The ship has tall masts, ropes, and various climbing features. Trees and greenery are visible in the background, suggesting a park setting.
royalparks.org

Kensington Gardens, Broad Walk, London W2 4RU

The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens is where the magic of Peter Pan comes to life. Set sail on a colossal pirate ship, complete with its own sandy shore, perfect for bucket-and-spade escapades. Venture beyond the ship to discover a tepee camp with wigwams fit for a tribe, and a tree-house village boasting walkways, slides, and 'tree phones.' But that's not all; the playground features a sea monster sculpture, giant swing, turtle drum, storyteller's chair, and more, making it a wonderland for kids up to 12. Plus, there are facilities for parents, including nappy-changing areas and a café. This enchanting play area offers free entertainment, from clown visits to storytelling sessions. Just keep an eye on the website for event details. Inspired by Princess Diana's love for children, this playground ensures a delightful and safe playtime for your little ones.

Mudchute Park and Farm

Two young goats stand on vibrant green grass. One goat has light tan fur and is looking to the right, while the other has reddish-brown fur and is looking to the left, both appearing curious and content in the sunny, outdoor setting.
Mudchute Farm Via Facebook

Pier St, Isle of Dogs, London E14 3HP

Want a taste of the countryside without leaving the city? Head over to Mudchute Park and Farm, a sprawling 32-acre oasis nestled on the Isle of Dogs, making it one of London's largest farms. From 9 am to 5 pm daily, you can enter free and explore this charming urban farm that's home to over 100 animals, including pigs, sheep, goats, cows, ducks, geese, and even llamas. The farm offers hands-on experiences for kids, with a petting zoo, stables, and a delightful duck pond. You might just meet Juliet, a Manx Loaghtan sheep, or the friendly turkey who's all ears for 'Old MacDonald Had a Farm.' For those aged over 7, the Mudchute Young Farmers program lets them dive into animal care, grooming, and feeding for just £40. Plus, they offer cool workshops like forest schools and arts and crafts, although these are an additional cost. Don't miss the ever-popular café, perfect for hearty breakfasts.