LLondon always has a wonderful vibe. Its deep history, including the royals, is intertwined with a modern city all its own. People from all over the world flock to London because there is so much to see and do, including iconic landmarks, from Tower Bridge to Buckingham Palace. It’s also a wonderful city for the kids, offering not only great history lessons but plenty of fun and adventurous activities for the whole family.

When schools are closed in London, it’s the perfect opportunity to gather the kids and explore the city and all it has to offer. This is a wonderful place where grand history meets excitement. With lengthy school holidays, including autumn break, Christmas break, February break, Easter break, and summer break, there is no excuse not to take the kids out for fun excursions around the city. Some of these can be both enjoyable and educational at the same time.

Fun Family-Friendly Activities to Do Around London During School Holidays

There’s nothing quite like a Ferris wheel at an amusement park, but London offers something even better. The London Eye is more than just a typical Ferris wheel; it “is the world’s largest cantilevered observation wheel,” according to londoneye.com. It’s one of the city’s most popular destinations for both Londoners and visitors alike. “A remarkable feat of design and engineering, the London Eye gave London’s skyline a dramatic new addition and has been providing guests with a fresh perspective on the city ever since.” As one of London’s more recent attractions, it enhances the city’s modern appearance and ambiance.

Next, take the children to Kew Gardens, the Royal Botanic Gardens. Here, you will discover over 50,000 living plants across our UNESCO World Heritage site, according to the website. Highlights include the Natural Area, with 37 acres of classic woodland; the Temperate House, featuring rare and threatened plants in a Victorian glasshouse; and the Davies Alpine House, a high-altitude area where alpine plants thrive.

How about a sword-fighting demonstration at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre? This experience takes place on-site and lasts approximately 45 minutes. It includes a photo opportunity where you can handle the weapons yourself. Also at the Globe, be sure to check out the Ghosts & Ghouls Family Tour. This family-friendly guided tour of the Globe Theatre brings ghosts and eerie occurrences from Shakespeare’s plays to life.

For a bit of history mixed with something scary, take the kids to The London Bridge Experience and Tombs. “Experience London’s gruesome history and a time that was an age of adventure, uncovering the dark secrets that lie beneath the world’s most famous haunted bridge,” states the website. The London Bridge Experience explores the sinister history of this iconic landmark.

Set Sail for Discovery with the Kids on the River Thames

Take your family on a scenic cruise in London with the Sightseeing Cruise Flexible Ticket. Departures occur every 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the season. The cruises depart from four locations: Westminster Pier, London Eye Pier, Tower Pier, and Greenwich Pier. Experience London like never before, including the Tower of London, the Houses of Parliament, South Bank, and historic Greenwich. You and your family will enjoy spectacular panoramic views from City Cruises’ riverboats, which feature an open-air upper deck and a heated indoor saloon. Refreshments are available on board, along with activity books for the children. Additionally, you’ll learn everything you need to know from our expert captains, who narrate each journey.

The 24-hour Hop-On Hop-Off River Pass allows you and your family to discover London’s riverside landmarks at your leisure. This pass offers unlimited access for 24 hours, enabling you to take the kids and explore London at your own pace. Choose from four key piers—Greenwich, Tower, London Eye, and Westminster—for easy access to major attractions and ample time for cruising. Kids travel free with family passes available.

While the kids are on holiday, this is a great opportunity to take advantage of a family pass, which allows 2 adult tickets to include up to 3 free children’s tickets.

Pair a School Holiday with a Walking Tour to See London’s Best

Introduce the kids to some of London’s best attractions with the Royal London Walking Tour with Guard Change & Entry to Royal Mews (Stables) at Buckingham Palace. Put on your comfortable walking shoes and bring the family as you uncover the fascinating history and stories of London. You will witness the Changing of the Guard and then explore the Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace’s working stables. Get up close to the Gold Stage Coach, which was used by Queen Elizabeth II on her Coronation Day in 1953. You will also see Clarence House and St. James’s Park. Your guide will share insider knowledge about the royals as well.

The kids will enjoy the Complete Tower of London Tour: Opening Ceremony, Early Access Crown Jewels & River Cruise. This offers a fantastic opportunity for them to learn about the Crown Jewels. After experiencing the famous opening ceremony and viewing the jewels before the crowds arrive, you’ll embark on a comprehensive tour of the Tower of London with an expert guide. Older children and teens can visit the Execution Site, where many lost their heads. Then, it’s off to explore some gruesome history as you delve into the Bloody Tower and the Torture Chambers. Next, discover the White Tower on a tour of the refurbished medieval castle. You’ll also receive a one-way river cruise ticket with City Cruises.

City Experiences can Host the Entire Family During England’s School Holidays

London is a city you can explore endlessly and still discover things you missed before. It offers so much for the entire family, including the kids. Be sure to take them to all the sites City Experiences offers during their school breaks so they can experience their wonderful city up close. We can’t wait to see you all soon.