Celebrity Best Days Out -David Walliams

TV personality, podcaster, comedian, talent show judge and global children’s-book superstar David Walliams shares the places he loved as a kid — and where he takes his family today. When he’s not recording his hit podcast Making A Scene with Matt Lucas, he’s busy launching his new festive book Santa & Son and preparing for the 2026 UK tour of There’s a Snake in My School! The Musical. Yet, he still finds time for fun family outings to London favourites like the Natural History Museum, the Tower of London and the London Aquarium.

Catch David on his current book signing tour – dates here.

Tell us what you’re up to?

I am writing a new book of course. Being an author is like having homework every day for the rest of your life!

What were your favourite three places to visit in London as a kid and why?

Hamleys is the world famous toy store that is situated in the heart of London. Even if you don’t buy anything, it is a place of wonder. There are lots of toys on display that you can play with too. My new book Santa & Son is set in a toy shop, and it is a love letter to the Hamleys even though I changed the name. 

You can spend a whole day in London Zoo and still not see everything. The penguins are my favourite. They are always busy busy busy.

The BFI IMAX is the best cinema in the world. The screen is ginormous and you get lost in the movie. Plus the pick ’n’ mix selection is second to none.

Where is your favourite place to eat with family?

Mildred’s vegetarian restaurant in Lexington Street in Soho. I am not a vegetarian but the food is yummy.

Rock & Sole fish and chip restaurant in Endell Street in Covent Garden is fantastic. 

Lemonia is a fantastic Greek restaurant in Primrose Hill, which is a beautiful area that I am very fortunate to live in. You have the park and a super parade of unique independent shop, cafes and restaurants. 

Where in London (or the UK) would you recommend to another family?

The National Rail Museum in York is my favourite museum in the country. I loved it as a kid and I love it as a grown-up. Alton Towers is the greatest theme park in the world. It has the biggest and best rollercoasters, and even has a Gangsta Granny ride! Brighton Pier has been a favourite since childhood. 

The Lake District is magic whatever the weather. And hiking is free. Edinburgh is the most stunning city in then UK, and during the festival in August has a million things to see and do. 

What would be your perfect day out with your family?

You can have a wonderful day out walking along the Thames. Along the Southbank you can visit the London Eye, the Aquarium, the London Dungeon, Tate Modern, perhaps take in a show at the National Theatre (they do incredible family shows at Christmas) or a film at the British Film Institute (they show family films at weekends), take in the sights (St Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard and the Houses of Parliament), and then go for afternoon tea somewhere. Lots of London hotels do great afternoon teas, but they can be super expensive. You can stop for tea and cake at lots of places and eat it on a bench overlooking the Thames. Primrose Bakery cupcakes are the best, if you happen to be near Camden. 

Name three places you love going with your kids.

The Natural History Museum, The Tower of London and The London Aquarium. 

At Christmas, Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is always a hit. 

Bus, tube, taxi, walk or cycle?

The tube is the fastest way to travel in London (see our handy guide), but walking over short distances is fantastic because you can see everything. The back streets are more interesting than the main roads. 

I wouldn’t cycle in central London. I think it’s too dangerous, especially for children. 

Black cabs are fantastic as the drivers are friendly and knowledgeable.