Top 10 Places Kids Really Want to Visit in London
The Top 10
This list is what the kids are crying out for. How do we know? Well, we read a whole bunch of blogs, a couple of guide books and this brilliant survey (courtesy of https://www.educationquizzes.com) – then we asked some of our KidRaters and they gave it the nod. So here you go. These, according to kids over the last 12 months – are the Top 10 Places in London they really want to visit and we’ve written them with Parents, Grandparents and SEN families in mind.
10. Science Museum
Button Heaven: Touch Everything, Learn Without Noticing
Why kids love it:
Explosions, rockets, and slides – what’s not to love? The Science Museum is a giant playground where you press buttons, pull levers, and learn without noticing. From space galleries to the Wonderlab (extra but worth it), it’s pure “wow” from start to finish.
Why it’s great for SEN families:
They get it. Sensory maps, “Early Birds” quiet openings, Changing Places facilities, and accessible galleries make visiting easy. Friendly staff and calm spaces mean restless legs and anxious minds can enjoy the day stress-free.
9. Covent Garden Street Performers & Market
Free Street Theatre for All Ages (and Shopping for Mums!)
Why kids love it:
Magicians, musicians, acrobats, and human statues – all for the price of a tip (or applause). Covent Garden piazza is buzzing, step-free, and surrounded by markets and shops. Don’t forget to grab a hot chocolate and sneak in a mum/dad treat at quirky boutiques nearby.
Why it’s great for SEN families:
Go in the morning for fewer crowds. The piazza is wheelchair- and pushchair-friendly, with reliable lifts and easy food stops. Calm spots nearby offer a breather when needed.
8. WWT London Wetland Centre
Wildlife Right in Zone 2
Why kids love it:
Hands-on activities, adventure playgrounds, and bird hides make it a wild day out without leaving the city. Huge open spaces are perfect for exploring.
Why it’s great for SEN families:
Step-free throughout, free wheelchair hire, SEN-friendly guided trails, and free entry for carers. Plenty of loos, picnic tables, and calm spots keep the day stress-free.
7. ZSL London Zoo
Penguins, Playgrounds, and Popcorn
Why kids love it:
World-class animal encounters, epic playgrounds, and hands-on exhibits. From penguins to lions, there’s something to wow every age group at London Zoo. Bonus: Sibling discounts and a bring-your-own-picnic zone for budget heroes.
Why it’s great for SEN families:
Changing Places facilities, accessible paths, free Blue Badge parking, and quiet access mornings. Calm zones and picnic spots make it welcoming for SEN, ASD, and wheelchair users.
6. SEA LIFE London Aquarium
London’s Underwater Adventure (in the Heart of the City)
Why kids love it:
Sharks, jellyfish, crocodiles (yes, really) and epic glass tunnels. It’s an underwater thrill right in the heart of the city. Pricey, but check our Merlin page for special offers and seriously think about investing in an annual or three month pass. A big thumbs up for sea-creature fanatics or soggy-weather days.
Why it’s great for SEN families:
Step-free with lifts, accessible loos, and staff who help with queues and crowds. Sensory maps and quiet mornings available – check ahead before visiting. Carers go free, so make sure you have your credentials on you!
Quick Inspiration
5. Diana Memorial Playground (Kensington Gardens)
Pirate Ship, Sand, Inclusive Play = Epic!
Why kids love it:
A huge wooden pirate ship, sensory trails, and plenty of sand make this more than just a playground. Free, fun, and perfect for younger kids. Perfect for younger kids, their siblings, and anyone needing a no-cost escape with snacks, fun, and bench space for a quick cuppa from Hyde Park cafés.
Why it’s great for SEN families:
Wheelchair-accessible sensory areas, shaded quiet spots, and calm early mornings make it ideal for extra-needs kids.
4. Hamleys Toy Store
The 7-Storey Toy Sensation – Expect Squeals
Why kids love it:
Central London’s toyshop mothership: here, boring adults rediscover their inner child while kids spend imaginary money very energetically. If you’ve got the stamina take the kids at Christmas – it’s totally bonkers and a sensory overload but an experience they’ll never forget.
Why it’s great for SEN families:
Wheelchair/buggy access is decent (especially via Regent Street lift); staff are trained for SEN and autism, and there’s always a helper at hand for crowd-beating tips. Go early to avoid peak mayhem and consider a sandwich picnic in nearby Regent Street gardens to save £s!
3. Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter
Pure Magic – Quidditch Capes Optional but Encouraged
Why kids love it:
You don’t have to be a Potterhead to be blown away, but superfans will be in heaven at Warner Bros Studio. Walk the actual sets, pose for broomstick selfies, and spot props from every film. It’s pure wizarding joy – just be ready to spend big. Check out our guide on how to get the best out of your visit.
Why it’s great for SEN families:
A sensory room, free carer tickets, Changing Places facilities, and wheelchair-friendly paths keep things accessible. Ear defenders, fidget toys, and dedicated parking are available, and staff will happily tweak your day for extra needs – just call ahead, way ahead!
2. Natural History Museum
Dinosaur Madness. Plus: Air-Conditioning. You’ll Never Leave.
Why kids love it:
From towering dinosaur skeletons to real meteorites and the world’s cuddliest blue whale, this is a wow-fest from the moment you walk in. There’s also a garden to run around in and more buttons to press than your TV remote.
Why it’s great for SEN families:
Step-free access, sensory bags, visual guides, and plenty of seating make visits easier. “Dawnosaurs” and “SENDsational” mornings offer a calmer experience, and it’s always free – with strong coffee for the grown-ups.
1. The London Eye
The “Top” Pick (literally: you’re 135m up!)
Why kids love it:
Nearly all our KidRaters give The Eye 10/10 because in a nutshell its everything they like – an oversized fairground ride that’s a teeny bit scary, lots of fun, and boasts breathtaking views even when the weather’s poor and visibility not great. It’s safe for everyone – from toddlers right up to thrill-seeking grannies and totally pram/wheelchair/walker-friendly.
Why it’s great for SEN families:
There’s a dedicated accessible queue, calm staff, and the pods are sound-muffled (bring noise-cancelling headphones for extra peace). Book a wheelchair slot in advance and you’ll get fast-tracked, plus a carer goes free – pocket the savings!
So, that’s the list.
And now for some KidRated Top Tips for Grown-Ups:
- Beat the café queues: Parks, gardens and even some museums are much happier to let you picnic than you think. Bring food, save cash, and win the day.
- Carers usually go free with proof at major attractions – check ahead and save money!
- SEN-friendly and Quiet Hours: most museums and attractions run special sessions for SEN, autism, or just “overwhelmed” kids – book right away! See our useful guides.
- The Big Stuff Gets Booked Early: Plan ahead, especially in holidays.
Wave your Oyster cards, mums and grandads: this city’s about making memories, not spending fortunes!
Irreverence? Always.
Empathy? Massively.
Ratings? From the experts: your kids.
Let us know which you tackle first – and send us your own kid’s reviews!
