London can feel like a lot to take on, let alone if you’re visiting with kids in tow. Three days sounds generous until you factor in travel time, queues and the real need to stop for a proper lunch. With a bit of structure, though, you can cover a huge amount without burning anyone out. Here’s where to go, when to go and how to keep it enjoyable, day by day.
Get the Arrival Right
Getting into the city smoothly sets the tone for the whole trip. For families with bags and children, travelling to London by rail is far less stressful than driving. You’ll arrive at a central station, step onto the Tube or a bus, and you’re there.
Once you’re in, an Oyster card or contactless payment covers all your Underground and bus travel. Kids under 11 travel free on the Tube when accompanied by an adult, which takes a chunk off your daily spend.
Day One: The South Bank
The South Bank is the ideal starting point for first-timers. It’s walkable, there’s plenty to see without going indoors, and it works well for children of most ages.
Start at Tower Bridge in the morning, then walk west along the river. You’ll pass Borough Market first, so if timing works, stop for an early lunch before it gets busy. From there, continue along to the Tate Modern. The Turbine Hall tends to grab kids’ attention and it’s free.
In the afternoon, you can continue along the riverfront to the Southbank Centre. Older children might enjoy watching the skateboarders at the Southbank Centre Undercroft, though it’s more of a spectator stop than somewhere for young kids to run around. Make sure to wrap up with a walk back across Waterloo Bridge for one of the best views in London.
Day Two: Hyde Park and the West End
Start in Hyde Park, going early before it fills up. The Diana Memorial Fountain works well as a paddling spot for small children on warm days, and Kensington Gardens are right next to it.
After lunch near South Kensington, head into the West End. Covent Garden is a strong choice with young children. The street performers can often be far more interesting than most paid attractions. From there, walk down to Trafalgar Square, where the kids can climb on the lions and you can look around the National Gallery for free.
Keep your evening plans light. West End theatre is worth it for families with children aged 8 and up, but early shows sell out fast, so book in advance.
Day Three: Greenwich
Greenwich rewards the effort it takes to get there. Take the DLR from Bank or Tower Gateway. The ride through Docklands is entertaining enough on its own.
The National Maritime Museum is free and impressive for kids interested in ships and explorers. From there, climb the hill in Greenwich Park to the Royal Observatory, where you can stand on the Prime Meridian Line. The views over Canary Wharf and the Thames are worth the walk up.
Come back down into Greenwich Market for lunch before heading home. It’s covered, the food is varied and it’s far less hectic than Borough Market.
Before You Go
A few things worth knowing:
- Book timed entry for the Tower of London and Royal Observatory in advance. Both sell out on the weekends.
- Build a mid-afternoon rest each day. An hour off your feet goes a long way with young children.
- The Tube is quickest for most journeys, but buses let you see more and are easier with pushchairs.
- Most of London’s major museums are free, which keeps the overall cost down.
Key Takeaways
Three days won’t get you everywhere, but this itinerary covers what the city does best. Iconic sights, open space, good food stops and enough variety to keep children genuinely engaged. Plan your routes the night before, keep the must-dos short and leave room for the unexpected.
