Best London Hidden Gems with Kids

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If you’re planning a family trip to London, there’s so much more to see beyond the usual tourist spots. These hidden gems are perfect for kids and adults alike, offering a mix of quirky museums, historic landmarks, interactive exhibits, and outdoor adventures. From climbing the Monument to exploring secret underground stations, each stop gives a unique glimpse into London’s history, culture, and creativity.

Central London Museums & Cultural Sites (South Bank, Westminster)

Garden Museum – peaceful break with beautifully curated exhibits that explore the history and design of gardens in Britain.
Florence Nightingale Museum – a fascinating look at the life and legacy of the founder of modern nursing through interactive exhibits and personal artifacts.
Imperial War Museum – comprehensive look at conflicts involving Britain and the Commonwealth, with exhibits ranging from World War I to the present day.
Somerset House – Such a lovely historic house in the heart of the city. There’s a great little splash area here in the warmer months, as well!

Central London History & Hidden Gems (Marylebone, Mayfair, St James’s)

Apsley House and Wellington Arch: two connected historic landmarks located at Hyde Park Corner, perfect for visitors interested in British history and military heritage. Apsley House is the former residence of the first duke of Wellington, and you can actually climb to the top of the arch!
The Hidden London Baker Street – The World’s First Underground tour is a guided experience offered by the London Transport Museum. It takes you into parts of Baker Street Station that are usually off-limits to the public. The tour explores the station’s long history, starting from its opening in 1863 as part of the world’s first underground railway. Note that minimum age for this tour is 12 years.
Handel Hendrix House – a glimpse into the lives of two iconic musicians who, despite living over 200 years apart, resided in neighboring buildings on Brook Street in Mayfair.
Household Cavalry Museum – behind-the-scenes look at the ceremonial life of the British cavalry, showcasing their uniforms, horses, and daily routines.
Royal Mews – behind-the-scenes look at the working stables of the British monarchy, including the royal horses, carriages, and historic state coaches. This is one of my favorite stops for families with younger kids.

Hidden Gems in London’s Historic Core & Financial District

Climbing the Monument to the Great Fire of London – 311 spiral steps to a panoramic view over the Thames and the city skyline. Along the way, exhibits share the story of the Great Fire of 1666.
One New Change – the rooftop terrace at One New Change shopping center offers free views of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the London skyline. A great spot for photography.
Sky Garden – free 360-degree view of London from its landscaped public garden. There are restaurants and cafes, making this a great place to stop for a bite to eat.
Barbican Conservatory – a hidden tropical oasis in the heart of the Barbican Centre, home to over 2,000 species of plants and trees.
Bank of England Museum – delves into the history of the UK’s central bank, offering exhibits on its role in the economy and monetary policy. Interactive displays and the chance to hold a gold bar make it a memorable visit for children.
London Mithraeum – An ancient Roman temple buried under the streets of London? It’s true, and it’s fascinating. Visits are free, but reserve tickets online in advance.
Guildhall Art Gallery – Destroyed in WWII, when excavations began to rebuild this Victorian art-focused gallery, workers found an ancient Roman amphitheatre inside. Plans were adapted to build around and showcase it, and it’s free to view today.

Things To Do With Kids in South Kensington, Chelsea & Kensington

V&A Museum – Museum of applied & decorative arts. The best part is a super fun & free children’s backpack to check out that has activities for different areas of the museum.
Holland Park Adventure Playground – a variety of play structures, including climbing frames, swings, and zip lines designed to encourage active play and adventure.
Leighton House – stunning Victorian home and studio that showcases the art and life of painter Frederic, Lord Leighton.
National Army Museum – huge space and exhibits with lots of interactive areas and exhibits for kids. Includes a paid soft play space for little ones.
Saatchi Gallery – showcases bold, contemporary art in a spacious former military building in Chelsea.
Design Museum – Museum of contemporary architecture & design where kids will be fascinated seeing “old” staples their parents used (like rotary phones and the 1st iPods). Permanent galleries are free; the gift shop is especially well curated.
Kyoto Garden – this serene little spot inside Holland Park is a refuge from the busyness of the city

London Hidden Gems Near Tower Bridge, London Bridge & the Thames

Ceremony of the Keys – the official locking up of the Tower, done by a Yeoman Warder, in full uniform, carrying a lantern and the Queen’s (now King’s) keys. Tickets are low-cost but must be booked well in advance, and it’s a cool, slightly mysterious experience that’s especially fun for older kids and teens who enjoy traditions and storytelling.
Golden Hinde – a quick but fun stop of a perfect replica of the ship that Sir Francis Drake used to circumnavigate the globe.
HMS Belfast – board a historic warship to explore naval life during WWII.
Regent’s Canal Waterbus – relaxing boat ride through one of London’s quieter waterways, gliding past houseboats, parks, and historic canal scenery. It’s an easy and scenic way to travel between Little Venice and Camden while seeing a different side of the city.
Clink Prison Museum: stands on the original site of one of England’s oldest and most notorious prisons. Exhibits include original artifacts, interactive displays, and reconstructed scenes that depict the harsh realities faced by prisoners over the centuries.

What to Do in Bloomsbury & King’s Cross With Kids

British Library – not totally hidden, but lots of people miss it! The Treasures exhibit is really worth a stop to see the original Magna Carta, childhood writings of Jane Austen & Charlotte Bronte, some of the earliest copies of Beowulf & Canterbury Tales, a first edition of Shakespeare’s plays, and more!
Foundling Museum – tells the story of London’s first home for abandoned children, combining social history with art and music. Its galleries highlight the lives of the children and the women who ran the institution.
Grant Museum of Zoology – a fascinating collection of animal specimens, including skeletons and preserved creatures.
Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology – one of the largest collections of Egyptian and Sudanese archaeology in the world. Visitors can explore thousands of artifacts, including pottery, jewelry, and ancient tools.
Coram Fields – seven-acre playground and park with a variety of play equipment, sports fields, and a small petting farm. Adults are only allowed entry when accompanied by a child, ensuring a safe, child-friendly environment.
Barnard Adventure Playground – dynamic play space designed to encourage adventurous, creative, and free play among children. Variety of structures like climbing frames, swings, and a zip line.

West & Southwest London Hidden Gems

Fulham Palace House & Garden – historic home of the Bishops of London. Adjacent to Bishops Park. Bishops Park has a lovely water play space for toddlers!
Chiswick House Gardens – in a lovely area of West London, the Chiswick House gardens are free and open to the public.

Things to Do in Camden, Regent’s Canal & North Central London

Columbia Road Flower Market – the variety of plants and colors here truly dazzles
Museum of the Home – An off-the-beaten-path gem that showcases the way people live through the ages. Excellent special events, too.
Museum of Childhood (Young V&A) – dedicated to the history of childhood. Extensive collection of toys, games, costumes, and childhood artifacts from the 1600s to the present day.
Camden Market – eclectic marketplace known for its diverse range of stalls selling fashion, art, antiques, and street food.

Greenwich, Docklands, East London & Olympic Park Hidden Gems

Old Royal Naval College painted ceiling – often called the “Sistine Chapel of the UK,” with grand Baroque ceilings depicting British naval power and history. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the artwork, the architecture, and the fascinating stories behind the paintings.
National Maritime Museum – showcases Britain’s naval history and maritime heritage. Interactive exhibits and family-friendly activities make it a great destination for visitors of all ages.
Museum of London Docklands – explores the history of London’s River Thames and its port. Kids will enjoy the Mudlarks gallery, a play area with hands-on activities.
ArcelorMittal Orbit/Helix: the world’s tallest and longest tunnel slide, located in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. It was originally built for the 2012 London Olympics and is a fun experience for teens.

Outer London & Big Green Spaces

RAF Museum – presents the history of the Royal Air Force through a vast collection of aircraft, memorabilia, and interactive displays. Offers flight simulators and educational activities.
Battersea Park – An urban oasis with gardens, themed walks, and interesting public art.