Best things to do in England with kids

England works well for a family trip. It’s easy to get around, packed with things to do, and most places are set up with kids in mind. This guide to England with kids breaks down some of the most useful tips, points you toward some regional highlights, and includes a 7-day itinerary you can tweak depending on your pace.

Traveling to England with kids: everything you need to know

England’s a pretty easy place to travel with kids. Public transport is reliable, there’s no language barrier, and most places are used to having families around.

You’ve got a good mix of activities—hands-on museums in the cities, wide open spaces in the countryside, and plenty of spots with a bit of magic or history to spark curiosity. In London, the Harry Potter studio tour and Tower of London are usually a hit. Outside the city, you’ll find quiet walks in the Cotswolds, fossil hunting along the Jurassic Coast, and wild ponies in the New Forest. If it’s your first time in this country, it might be worth checking out our guide to how to plan a trip to England. 

It’s a trip that works well for different kinds of travelers—kids who want to explore, relax, or get hands-on with stuff. The rest of this guide will help you plan the details.
 

10 tips for traveling to England with kids

There’s plenty to see, lots of green space to run around in, and enough variety to keep both kids and adults interested when you are in England. Here’s what helps make the experience easier—and more fun—for everyone.

1. Plan your itinerary ahead of time

There’s no shortage of things to do with kids in England—you’ll just want to strike a good balance. Mix the big sights with stops that are more geared toward children. After a visit to the Tower of London, for example, head to the nearby playground by Tower Bridge. For full-on kid days, places like the National Railway Museum in York, Legoland Windsor, or the Warner Bros. Studio Tour (Harry Potter) are solid picks. See our guide to everything you need to know before visiting Britain.

2. The shoulder season is when you’ll want to go

Late May to June or early autumn (September into early October) is the best time to go to England because it usually means smaller crowds, mild weather, and more manageable prices. If you’re tied to school schedules, look at half-term breaks—February, May, and October—when many places add family activities. Try to avoid late July through August if you can, since that’s when everything fills up fast. Bank holiday weekends are also busy, especially at popular places. If you're looking for more specifics on the best time to go to England, see our guide.
 

3. Public transit is easy in England

Getting around is pretty straightforward. In London, kids under 11 ride free on buses and the Tube when they’re with a paying adult. A Visitor Oyster card keeps things simple. For longer train rides between cities, booking early usually saves money. The Family & Friends Railcard can be worth it if you’re traveling a lot. Just be aware that in more rural areas, buses may run less often—especially on weekends—so it’s good to double-check ahead of time. For a more detailed look, see our guide to getting around England.

4. Don’t miss traditional British food experiences

You don’t have to make every meal a big event, but some British food classics can be a fun part of the trip. Afternoon tea can be a hit—some places do versions just for kids. Fish and chips at the coast or a Sunday roast at a low-key pub can go over well, especially if there’s outdoor space or somewhere to play. Big chains like Wagamama, Giraffe, and Nando’s usually have kids’ menus and high chairs, and they’re used to families. Just know that dinner tends to start early—around 5:30 PM—which can actually work in your favor.

5. Choose your family-friendly accommodations strategically

Look for places that make family travel easier. Apartment hotels and self-catering cottages give you more room and a kitchen, which can be a lifesaver with kids. Premier Inn and Travelodge both have family rooms that usually include pull-out beds and are generally affordable. In London, quieter neighborhoods like South Kensington or Greenwich can be a better base than the center (for more on that, see our guide to the best area to stay in London). Always check in advance if you’ll need a crib or cot—they’re not always available unless you ask ahead. 

6. Travel insurance is worth it

Emergency treatment is available to all children under the NHS, including visitors, but it only covers urgent care—anything beyond that may come with a bill. Travel insurance is still essential, since it can help cover unexpected costs or delays. For everyday things like colds, scrapes, or minor rashes, pharmacies like Boots or Superdrug are usually your best bet. The staff can give advice and help you find what you need.
 

7. Museums are a great way to spend a day

Many national museums are free and surprisingly family-friendly, and it's a great way to spend a trip to England with kids. The Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and British Museum all have areas or activities geared toward kids, especially during school holidays. Museums like the London Transport Museum or Eureka! in Halifax charge admission but are very hands-on. To keep kids engaged, download a museum treasure hunt app or make a scavenger list together before you go.

8. Adding some time in green spaces can be a nice break

If you’re spending a lot of time in cities, plan for some outdoor breaks. The Lake District is good for short walks and calm lake cruises. In the New Forest, there are easy cycling trails, and you’ll probably spot a few ponies along the way. Down on the Jurassic Coast, beaches near Lyme Regis are known for fossil hunting. Even in London, parks like Hyde Park and Regent’s Park give kids space to run around, paddle boats, or spend time at the playground.
 

9. Be sure to spend time at local markets

Markets are a fun way to pick up souvenirs that feel more personal. At Borough Market in London, kids can try different snacks from around the world. Camden Market is a hit with teenagers—it’s packed with unusual clothes, posters, and handmade stuff. Portobello Road is good for browsing, especially if your kids like digging through old books and trinkets. In other cities, markets like the Bull Ring in Birmingham or Shambles Market in York have regional food and crafts. If your kids are old enough, you could even give them a small budget and let them choose something on their own—it’s a nice way to help them feel involved.

10. Remember to slow down and build in downtime

It’s easy to over-plan, especially on a short trip, but building in downtime usually helps everyone enjoy things more. For every packed sightseeing day, try to plan a slower one. Look out for playgrounds—they’re in nearly every park and make good pit stops between attractions. If your child naps, it’s worth sticking to their usual schedule as much as possible. You might also find it easier to base yourself in one place for a few days and take day trips, rather than constantly switching hotels. Some of the nicest moments come when you’re not rushing anywhere—just feeding ducks, having a snack on a bench, or watching the world go by.
 

Best things to do with kids in England

England is packed with castles, storybook villages, fantastic green spaces, and enough kid-friendly museums to keep curious minds entertained for weeks. It's small enough to get around easily, and the mix of history and fun means kids learn a lot without even realizing it.

London

London is full of big-name attractions that actually live up to the hype—especially for kids. The Tower of London is one of those places that hits the sweet spot between gruesome history and glittering treasures, and kids love hearing about imprisoned princes and seeing the crown jewels up close. The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is worth catching for the sheer spectacle. 

If it’s raining (and let’s be honest, it probably will be at some point), head for the Natural History Museum’s dinosaur gallery or the Science Museum’s hands-on exhibits—both are free and full of stuff to touch, press, and explore. The London Eye gives great views over the city and can be an exciting activity. For younger ones, the pirate ship at the Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens is a total hit. For more ideas, see our guide to London with kids.
 

The Lake District

The Lake District is perfect for burning off energy and soaking up fresh air. It’s easy to find a trail that’s doable with little legs, and boat trips on Lake Windermere are a big win for everyone. Fans of Beatrix Potter can visit her old farmhouse, Hill Top, or dive into the World of Beatrix Potter in Bowness, which turns her stories into life-sized scenes. There are also loads of places to try paddleboarding, gentle climbing, or cycling on car-free trails. 

Staying in a cottage or a farm stay adds an extra layer of fun—especially if your kids like animals. After a day outside, local cafés are great for warming up with something simple and tasty. Don't miss our pick of the most beautiful places in the Lake District for travel inspiration.
 

Bath

Bath works well for a short city break. The Roman Baths are more engaging than you might expect—kids can follow along with their own audio guides, and the costumed staff bring some of the stories to life. The nearby Pump Room has hands-on displays too. Outside the center, Prior Park has big open lawns, a stone bridge, and woodland paths that are good for running around or a picnic. The Jane Austen Centre is another spot that keeps things light, with dress-up stations and fun facts. A boat trip along the canal is a good way to slow things down for an hour or two. 
 

Cornwall

Cornwall has beaches, wide open space, and a few storybook settings that tend to stick with kids. The Eden Project is worth a stop—it's got giant glass domes filled with rainforest and desert plants, and the paths are easy to follow. It's easily one of Britain's best seaside towns.

At Tintagel Castle, the crumbling ruins and sea views pair well with the King Arthur legends you’ll probably end up Googling afterwards. Polzeath and Perranporth beaches are good for paddling or beginner surf lessons, and there’s usually a place nearby to grab snacks. The Lost Gardens of Heligan is a nice half-day trip with jungle paths, rope bridges, and animals to spot. You’ll find everything from seaside cottages to casual campgrounds with solid facilities.
 

Yorkshire

Yorkshire’s an easy place to keep kids curious and active. In York, the Jorvik Viking Centre has a ride that takes you through a recreated Viking village—with sounds and smells that make it feel like you’ve stepped into the 10th century. It’s engaging without being overwhelming. 

The National Railway Museum is a good stop if your kids are into trains—there’s plenty to look at, and the big locomotives are fun to explore (and our guide to Britain’s top steam railways might be worth looking at). Walking the old city walls is a low-key adventure too, with great views and space to stretch little legs.

Once you’re outside the city, the Yorkshire Dales are a good place for short walks and fresh air. Trails aren’t too tough, and spots like Aysgarth Falls are great for a snack break or a riverside sit. If you’re near the North York Moors, the steam railway is a fun ride—especially if your kids are into Harry Potter since some scenes were filmed there.  
 

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford does a decent job making Shakespeare feel less like homework. The Royal Shakespeare Company puts on family-friendly performances and runs workshops where kids can jump into the stories through games and activities. Just outside town, Mary Arden’s Farm gives a glimpse of what life looked like in Tudor times. There are people in costume, hands-on demonstrations, and animals kids can help feed.

If you need a change of pace, the Butterfly Farm is a nice stop. It’s warm inside, full of colorful butterflies, and calm enough for younger kids. You can also rent a boat or go for a row on the River Avon, which is a good way to slow things down. Warwick Castle is one of the best castles in England and is nearby and has a mix of performances, archery, and medieval-themed stuff that’s easy for kids to get into. 
 

Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a solid pick for kids who like boats or hands-on exploring. At the Historic Dockyard, you can actually climb aboard old ships like HMS Victory and the Mary Rose. They’ve got kids’ trails that point out small but interesting details. Between museum stops, Action Stations gives kids a place to run around, with climbing walls and simulators that are easy to get into without needing a lot of explanation.

The Spinnaker Tower is good for a quick thrill—it’s got a glass floor and fast elevators, and the view over the harbor is worth a look. If you’ve got time, take the ferry over to the Isle of Wight. Blackgang Chine is there—it’s a mix of rides, dinosaurs, and fairy tale zones that’s good for a few hours of wandering. It makes a great addition to any trip to England with kids.
 

The New Forest

The New Forest is one of those places where you don’t have to plan too much—just show up and let the kids explore. You’ll see ponies and deer grazing in open areas, which always feels a bit surprising even if you’re expecting it. There are flat, gravel cycling trails with no cars, so biking here is easy even for beginners or families with trailers. Most rental places have gear for all ages.

The New Forest Wildlife Park is good if your kids like animals—you’ll see otters, wolves, and other species that live (or used to live) in the UK. They do short talks throughout the day that explain things in a way kids can follow. The Beaulieu Motor Museum is nearby and has a mix of old cars, vehicles from movies, and a few hands-on exhibits. If you’re traveling with younger children, Peppa Pig World at Paultons Park is not far and has mellow rides and plenty of color. 
 

England family itinerary

This 7-day plan for England with kids includes a little bit of everything: museums, green spaces, day trips, and meals that are kid-friendly without being boring.

Day one

Start the day at the Tower of London. Aim to get there when it opens at 9am—it’s quieter first thing and a lot easier to enjoy without the crowds. Kids usually get into the Crown Jewels and the Yeoman Warder tours. You’ll probably spend two or three hours here; then it’s time for lunch. The Pig and Goose, not far from St. Paul’s, works well and has a kids' menu.

In the afternoon, head to the British Museum. It’s easy to reach by tube, and things like the Egyptian mummies and the Rosetta Stone tend to catch kids’ attention. There’s a lot to see, but you don’t have to do it all. Head back to your hotel or rental by late afternoon for a bit of a break. Dinner at Jamie’s Italian in Covent Garden is a good call—kids get activity packs, which helps if they’re getting tired. 

Day two

Plan to be at Buckingham Palace around 10:30am to catch the Changing of the Guard at 11. It can get crowded, but if you grab a spot early, it’s worth seeing once. From there, walk over to St. James’s Park—it’s right next door—and stop at the café for lunch. It’s a laid-back spot where you can watch the pelicans being fed if the timing lines up.

After lunch, make your way to the London Eye. It’s best to book tickets online so you’re not stuck in a long line. The ride gives you a good view of the city, and it’s fun pointing out places you’ve already been. Afterward, grab a snack or tea nearby before heading to Giraffe on the Southbank for dinner. The menu has enough variety to keep most people happy. If everyone’s still up for it, take a short walk along the river—London looks different at night, and it’s a nice way to wind things down.
 

Day three

Catch a morning train from Paddington Station to Oxford—it takes about an hour. Once you’re there, walk around some of the university colleges. The old buildings are impressive, and you can spot a few Harry Potter filming locations along the way. For lunch, check out The Covered Market. There are plenty of food stalls, so everyone can grab what they like.

In the afternoon, visit the Oxford Natural History Museum and the Pitt Rivers Museum next door. There’s a mix of dinosaurs, artifacts, and unexpected stuff that keeps it interesting. When it starts to feel like too much, head to University Parks. It’s a good spot to relax and let kids run around a bit. For dinner, The Eagle and Child is a nice place to end the day—especially if you’ve got any book lovers in the family. It’s where Tolkien and C.S. Lewis used to meet up.

Day four

Start your morning at the Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens. It’s centered around a big wooden pirate ship, and there’s plenty for kids to climb, dig, and splash around in. 

When everyone’s hungry, head to The Orangery at Kensington Palace. It’s a nice space and still relaxed enough with kids. They’ve got a simple kids' menu, and it’s a quieter place to sit down for a midday break.

In the afternoon, walk ten minutes over to the Science Museum. The whole place is hands-on, and it does a good job of making big ideas feel approachable through play. Wonderlab is especially fun—it’s full of experiments with light, sound, and movement, and you’ll probably end up staying longer than planned.

Take a break and head back to your accommodation. For dinner, Pizza Express is an easy win. It’s casual, consistent, and you’ll find one nearby no matter where you’re staying. The dough balls are usually a hit.
 

Day five

Take an early train to Bath—it’s about an hour and a half from London. Once you’re there, start with the Roman Baths. They’ve got a family-friendly audio guide that makes it easy to follow along, and kids can get a sense of how people lived (and bathed) a couple thousand years ago.

For lunch, stop at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House. It’s one of those spots people tend to seek out in Bath. The buns are sweet and soft, and you can choose different toppings depending on what you’re in the mood for.

In the afternoon, join a coach tour out to Stonehenge. It’s around an hour from Bath and works well as a half-day trip. The site itself is wide open, so bring jackets—it can get windy, even if the weather’s decent. 

Back in Bath, dinner at The Scallop Shell is a good way to end the day. They do straightforward fish and chips, and it’s a relaxed space where kids are welcome. If you don’t feel like rushing back to London, staying the night in Bath can make the day feel a little less packed.

Day six

Catch a train to Moreton-in-Marsh, then take a taxi to Bourton-on-the-Water. It’s a small village with low bridges over a shallow river—the kind of place where kids can splash around in summer. Bring water shoes if you’ve got them; the stones can be rough underfoot.

Stop for lunch at the Rose Tree Restaurant. It’s right by the river, and if you can get a table outside, it’s a nice spot to relax. From there, take a taxi to the Cotswold Wildlife Park. It’s a big open-air park with animals like giraffes, rhinos, and lions, but what makes it enjoyable is the space to walk around and the quieter feel compared to city zoos. 

For dinner, The Old Manse Hotel does traditional English food using ingredients from around the region. Afterward, take a walk through the village. It’s calmer in the evening once the crowds leave, and the stone buildings along the river look especially nice around sunset.
 

Day seven

Start your day by hopping on a Thames Clipper boat for a 40-minute scenic ride along the Thames to Greenwich. Once there, head straight to the Royal Observatory, where you can stand on the Prime Meridian line—one foot in the eastern hemisphere, the other in the western. It's a classic photo opportunity.

For lunch, wander through Greenwich Market. There’s a good mix of food stalls with everything from Caribbean jerk chicken to Vietnamese noodles, and plenty of seating if you need a break. In the afternoon, stop by the National Maritime Museum. It covers British naval history in a way that’s easy to take in, with some hands-on parts for kids—there’s even a ship simulator that younger visitors usually go straight for.

When you’re ready to slow down, head up into Greenwich Park. It’s a peaceful spot with wide paths and a great view over London. For dinner, Goddards is a reliable choice for pie and mash—it’s been around since 1890 and keeps things traditional.

Flexible alternatives for rainy says

The British Museum and Science Museum are good go-tos if it’s pouring, but there are a few other places worth keeping in mind. The London Transport Museum in Covent Garden is especially good for kids—there are simulated buses and trains they can “drive,” and the whole place is set up to be hands-on and easy to explore. Tickets are valid for a year, so you can come back if you don’t see everything.
If kids need to move around, Clip 'n Climb in Chelsea has indoor climbing walls in lots of colors and levels. It’s open to kids as young as four.

Ready to start planning your trip to England with kids? Check out the Rough Guide to Great Britain. Read more about the best time to go and the best places to visit in England. If you prefer to plan and book your trip to England without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.