London is a bustling metropolis with endless activities for families to enjoy. But with so many options, it can be overwhelming to plan a family vacation without breaking the bank. In this article, we will explore 5 family-friendly activities in London that are affordable and fun.
General Family Vacation Budget Tips:
In addition to the five family-friendly activities on a budget we highlighted above, there are a few other tips to keep in mind if you’re looking to have a budget-friendly family vacation in London.
Plan ahead
One of the best ways to save money on your family vacation to London is to plan ahead. This means doing your research in advance, so you can find the best deals on flights, accommodation, and activities.
You can also save money by booking in advance, as many attractions offer discounts for pre-booking tickets.The off-season for London typically falls between November and March, when the weather is colder and less predictable. Traveling during the off season while locals flock to warmer all-inclusive Turks and Caicos adventures means you can avoid the crowds.
Take advantage of free activities
London is full of free activities and attractions for families, so make sure to take advantage of them. From world-class museums like the British Museum and the National Gallery to beautiful parks like Hyde Park and Regent’s Park, there are plenty of free things to do in the city.
Use public transport
Using public transport is a great way to save money on your family vacation in London. The city has an extensive network of buses, trains, and the iconic Underground, all of which are affordable and convenient. You can save even more money by purchasing an Oyster card, which offers discounted fares on public transport.
Eat like a local
Eating out in London can be expensive, but there are plenty of budget-friendly options if you know where to look. Head to local markets like Borough Market and Camden Market for delicious street food, or opt for pub grub at one of the city’s many traditional pubs. You can also save money by packing a picnic and enjoying it in one of London’s many parks.
Consider a serviced apartment
If you’re traveling with your family, a serviced apartment can be a great budget-friendly option. These apartments offer all the comforts of home, including a fully equipped kitchen, and are often cheaper than traditional hotels. Plus, you’ll have more space to relax and spend time together as a family.
5 Family London Activities on a Budget
1. Visit the Science Museum
The Science Museum in London is a fascinating destination for kids and adults alike. The museum has an extensive collection of interactive exhibits that cover everything from space exploration to modern technology. Best of all, admission is free! The Science Museum is located in South Kensington and is easily accessible by public transportation.
One of the most popular exhibits at the Science Museum is the Wonderlab. This exhibit is a hands-on science experience that lets visitors experiment with light, sound, and forces. The Wonderlab costs £8 per person, but if you book in advance, you can save 10%. The Science Museum also offers free activities and workshops for families on weekends and during school holidays.
Play their award winning photo treasure hunt across the museum finding objects and accepting challenges that are most exciting to you! You can hunt around in the museum to snap a treasure you think best meets the description. Or it even works at home too.
2. Explore Covent Garden
Covent Garden is a lively area in central London that is popular with tourists and locals alike. The neighborhood is known for its street performers, markets, and shopping. Covent Garden is a great destination for families because there is always something going on.
One of the most popular activities in Covent Garden is watching the street performers. From jugglers to musicians, the performers in Covent Garden are some of the best in London. There are also a variety of shops and markets in Covent Garden that are fun to explore. The Apple Market is a covered market that sells handmade crafts and souvenirs.
3. Take a Walk on the South Bank
The South Bank is a stretch of the River Thames that is home to some of London’s most iconic landmarks. From the London Eye to the Tate Modern, there is plenty to see and do on the South Bank. But the best part is that it’s free!
One of the most popular activities on the South Bank is taking a walk along the river. There are plenty of street performers and vendors along the way, so you’ll never get bored. The South Bank is also home to several outdoor art installations that are worth checking out.
4. Visit the Museum of London Docklands
The Museum of London Docklands is a fascinating destination that explores the history of London’s docks. The museum is located in a restored warehouse and has a variety of interactive exhibits that cover everything from the slave trade to the Blitz. Best of all, admission is free!
One of the most popular exhibits at the Museum of London Docklands is the Sailortown exhibit. This exhibit is a recreation of a 19th-century dockside neighborhood and lets visitors experience what life was like for sailors in London. The museum also offers free activities and workshops for families on weekends and during school holidays.
5. See the Changing of the Guard
The Changing of the Guard is a popular attraction in London that is free to watch. The ceremony takes place at Buckingham Palace every day at 11 am during the summer months and every other day during the winter.
The Changing of the Guard is a ceremony where the new guard replaces the old guard in front of Buckingham Palace. The ceremony is accompanied by music from a military band and is a must-see for any visitor to London.