London for families: A suggested one-day itinerary

Morning

Start the day with a full morning of sightseeing. To tick off lots of historic attractions in one go, head straight to the Southbank. Walk along the water’s edge or hop on a boat and sail past sights such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and the infamous Tower of London – home to the city’s most precious jewels. The Thames is also studded with family-friendly activities – for picture-perfect views, take a spin on The London Eye; for a history lesson with a grisly twist, brave The London Dungeon; or for a maritime adventure, board the HMS Belfast.

Afternoon

After a busy morning, treat youngsters to a shopping trip. If there’s one kid’s shop that can’t be missed it’s Hamleys on Regent Street. The finest toy shop in the world, Hamleys presents seven floors of toys, games and interactive activities for children (and young-at-heart adults). Next, head to the world’s largest Lego store in Leicester Square. The two-storey space is designed to impress, with displays of all the latest toys and giant replicas made from Lego bricks, including a life-size London Underground tube carriage and a 20-foot Big Ben, complete with a working clock face.

Evening

In the evening, nothing beats a show in London’s famous West End theatre district. From long-running classics like The Phantom of the Opera and Les Misérables to fantastical family favourites like The Lion King and Wicked, there’s always an excellent selection of all-singing-all-dancing performances to choose from. Insider tip: discounted last-minute tickets can be picked up at TKTS ticket booths in Leicester Square.

Image credits:

Super London © iStock: RichVintage

Skyline view © iStock: ZoltanGabor

Stage door © iStock: whitemay

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