What age is best for the Harry Potter Studio Tour?

Children aged 6 and up get the most from it. Younger children enjoy the sets and Butterbeer but may lose interest during the 3-4 hour visit.

Is the London Dungeon too scary for kids?

It is recommended for ages 12 and up. There are live actors, dark rooms, and jump scares. Some confident 10-11 year olds enjoy it, but you know your child best.

Do kids travel free on the Tube?

Children under 11 travel free on the Tube, buses, and DLR when accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket. Ages 11-15 travel free on buses and trams.

Best London Tours for Families with Kids (2026)

The best family-friendly tours and attractions in London, from Harry Potter to free museums.

Updated: 19 March 2026

Why London is Perfect for Families

London is one of the most family-friendly cities in the world. Many of its best museums are free, public transport is easy to navigate with children, and there are attractions designed specifically for younger visitors. From the magic of Harry Potter to the dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum, London sparks curiosity and imagination at every turn.

Best Tours for Kids Under 5

For very young children, keep things simple. The London Eye is a gentle, enclosed experience with amazing views. A Thames river cruise is relaxing and keeps toddlers entertained by the boats. The hop-on hop-off bus lets you hop off when little legs (or patience) runs out. Avoid the London Dungeon and long walking tours for this age group.

Best Tours for Ages 5 to 12

This is the golden age for London sightseeing. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is a standout, with 3-4 hours of pure magic. The Tower of London brings history to life with armour, ravens, and Beefeater stories. Madame Tussauds is always a hit for selfies with favourite characters. The London Dungeon suits braver kids aged 10 and up.

Best Tours for Teenagers

Teenagers tend to enjoy The View from The Shard (great for Instagram), the London Dungeon (thrills and scares), and Borough Market food tours (they can eat their way through the experience). Day trips to Stonehenge or the Harry Potter Studio Tour also appeal to this age group. Give them some autonomy at Camden Market or Covent Garden.

Free Family Activities

The Natural History Museum has dinosaur skeletons, a life-size blue whale, and an earthquake simulator, all for free. The Science Museum has interactive galleries including a flight simulator. The V&A Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Green is purpose-built for families. Hyde Park has playgrounds, the Serpentine, and Diana Memorial Playground. Watching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace costs nothing.

Practical Tips for Families

Book timed tickets in advance to avoid queues with restless children. Most attractions have baby-changing facilities. The Tube can be difficult with pushchairs as not all stations have step-free access; check the TfL journey planner. Consider buying family tickets (usually 2 adults + 2 children) for savings of 10-20%. Pack snacks because attraction cafe prices are steep.