What should I do with kids in London for one day?

A great one-day itinerary: start at Horniman Museum and Gardens in the morning, grab lunch at Ave Mario 🇮🇹, then visit NOLJAK London Children Art School in the afternoon. 2 of these stops are free.

How much does a day in London with kids cost?

A full day with a family of four costs roughly Free + USD 102–140 (approx GBP 80–110) for a family meal with drinks + 55–80 USD + Free. Every listing on KidPaths shows family-of-4 cost estimates.

What order should I visit London attractions with kids?

Start outdoors in the morning when kids have energy and it's cooler. Do indoor attractions after lunch when it's hottest. Save easy, free activities for late afternoon when everyone's winding down.

One Day in London with Kids

The perfect family day in London, morning to evening. 4 stops picked from 175 kid-tested activities based on ratings, variety, and parent tips. 2 stops are free.

9 AM

MorningStart the day with energy

Horniman Museum and Gardens

A free museum packed with animal specimens, a walrus that became a London legend, an overstuffed taxidermy collection, live animals, and 16 acres of gorgeous ga

All agesFree2–3 hours4.6 stars

Tip: The walrus in the natural history gallery is a must-see — look up its story before you go and watch your kids' faces when they see how enormous it is

12 PM

LunchRefuel the family

Ave Mario 🇮🇹

Ave Mario in Covent Garden is another Big Mamma restaurant with the group's signature spectacular interior — dramatic lighting, theatrical design, and that kind

5–17USD 102–140 (approx GBP 80–110) for a family meal with drinks1.5–2 hours4.8 stars

Tip: Book at least two to three weeks ahead for weekends — this location books out faster than most restaurants in Covent Garden.

2 PM

AfternoonThe main event

NOLJAK London Children Art School

NOLJAK blends fine art techniques with imaginative play, so children are learning real skills while feeling like they're just having a brilliant time making thi

3–1255–80 USD1–2 hours5 stars

Tip: If your child is passionate about a particular medium, ask whether specialist sessions or extended projects are available

4 PM

Late AfternoonWind down

The National Gallery

Van Gogh's Sunflowers in real life, enormous Rubens battle scenes, and vivid portraits — world-famous paintings look completely different in person and children

All agesFree1.5–2.5 hours4.8 stars

Tip: Collect a free family trail from the welcome desk — it focuses kids on specific paintings with questions and activities

Tips for Your Day

→ Start outdoor activities in the morning before it gets hot.
→ Pack snacks and water — saves money and avoids meltdowns.
→ Check hours before you go. Museum hours change seasonally.

Common Questions

What should I do with kids in London for one day?: A great one-day itinerary: start at Horniman Museum and Gardens in the morning, grab lunch at Ave Mario 🇮🇹, then visit NOLJAK London Children Art School in the afternoon. 2 of these stops are free.
How much does a day in London with kids cost?: A full day with a family of four costs roughly Free + USD 102–140 (approx GBP 80–110) for a family meal with drinks + 55–80 USD + Free. Every listing on KidPaths shows family-of-4 cost estimates.
What order should I visit London attractions with kids?: Start outdoors in the morning when kids have energy and it's cooler. Do indoor attractions after lunch when it's hottest. Save easy, free activities for late afternoon when everyone's winding down.

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