Exploring London with Kids: The 7 Best Free Attractions For Your Family Trip!

London, a city steeped in history and culture, offers a treasure trove of experiences for families with children. While it's known for its world-class museums and iconic landmarks, you might be pleasantly surprised to discover that many of these attractions are not only kid-friendly but also completely free!
During our recent visit, we made the most of some of London's best educational spots - as a home educating family London provides such a wide array of choices for us to really maximise on the learning opportunities! Here are some of our favorite places to visit.
1. **Natural History Museum**:
   The Natural History Museum is a haven for young explorers and budding scientists. This magnificent institution houses a vast collection of specimens, including dinosaur fossils, rare minerals, and a mesmerizing blue whale skeleton. The museum's interactive displays and hands-on exhibits will captivate children of all ages. Don't miss the Earth Hall, where you can touch a 4.5-billion-year-old meteorite. My kids favorite exhibit was definitely the Dinosaurs and the enormous animatronic T rex!
Admission to this iconic museum is free, though there may be charges for special exhibitions.
2. **The Science Museum**:
   Just a stone's throw away from the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum offers another fantastic opportunity for curious young minds. Packed with interactive displays, interactive workshops, and live demonstrations, this museum makes science engaging and accessible for kids. Highlights include the Wonderlab, a high-energy interactive gallery, and the Flight Gallery, where kids can get up close with vintage aircraft. Like the Natural History Museum, general admission to the Science Museum is free.
3. **Spitalfields Market**:
   For a different kind of adventure, head to Spitalfields Market in the heart of East London. This bustling market is not just a shopping destination but a cultural experience. Stroll through the lively stalls featuring fashion, crafts, antiques, and delicious street food from around the world. Kids will love the vibrant atmosphere, and you can find unique items to take home as souvenirs. While shopping might incur costs, the vibrant ambiance and people-watching are entirely free.
4. **Diana Memorial Playground**:
   Located in the beautiful Kensington Gardens, the Diana Memorial Playground is a magical play area dedicated to the memory of Princess Diana. This whimsical playground features a huge wooden pirate ship, a sensory trail, and various play sculptures inspired by Peter Pan. Children can let their imaginations run wild as they explore this enchanting space. 
The playground is free to enter and offers a wonderful opportunity for kids to burn off some energy while parents relax amid the greenery of Kensington Gardens.
5. **Harrods**:
   While Harrods is renowned for its luxury shopping, it can also be a unique destination for a family outing. Step into the world-famous department store, and you'll find plenty of attractions to entertain children. The Harrods Toy Kingdom is a paradise for kids, with a wide selection of toys and games to explore. Additionally, the store often hosts special events and displays, such as the annual Christmas Grotto, where kids can meet Santa. While shopping at Harrods can be a pricey affair, simply wandering through the grand store and admiring its opulent interior is an experience in itself.
6. **Hampstead Heath**:
   Escape the hustle and bustle of central London by visiting Hampstead Heath, a vast green oasis in the north of the city. This expansive park offers picturesque ponds, rolling meadows, and scenic woodlands. Take a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views of London's skyline from Parliament Hill. 
Kids can explore the playgrounds, paddle in the ponds, and even swim in the historic Hampstead Heath Swimming Ponds during the summer months. Hampstead Heath provides a serene and cost-free escape from the city's urban chaos.
7. **Tate Modern**:
   Introduce your children to contemporary art at the Tate Modern, one of London's premier art galleries. Located in a repurposed power station on the banks of the River Thames, the Tate Modern boasts an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney. 
While some exhibitions may require admission fees, the majority of the gallery's collection can be viewed for free. The Turbine Hall often features large-scale installations that can be particularly captivating for kids. Engage your children's creativity and inspire their love for art at this iconic cultural institution.
London is a city brimming with opportunities for family-friendly adventures, and you don't have to break the bank to enjoy them.  If you need somewhere to stay, The Corner City Hotel London is the ideal base for exploring London with kids, offering both convenience and comfort for families. Its central location means you're just a short walk or a quick tube ride away from many of these attractions such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and Harrods. After a day of adventure, you can return to the hotel's family-friendly accommodations, complete with spacious rooms and thoughtful amenities designed with your little ones in mind. With its welcoming atmosphere and proximity to all the best kid-friendly spots in London, the Corner City Hotel London ensures that your family's visit to the city is both enjoyable and hassle-free. 
So, pack your bags, grab your little ones, and embark on a memorable journey exploring the best free places to visit in London with kids. London's treasures await your discovery! If you enjoy my blog, please consider following me on Bloglovin'