London
Free things to do with kids in London
Keeping a London outing free works best when you decide what is included before leaving home. These ideas have no general entry charge, but travel, food and optional extras still count. Greenwich is especially useful for a park-and-museum pairing without hopping between distant neighbourhoods.
Ages 4–12, with shorter park and gallery visits for younger children.
Plan My Family DaySix ideas for your day
1. National Maritime Museum: explorer trail
Free general entryindoorSpot ships and seafaring objects in the free collection galleries; check play-gallery charges separately.
Venue information2. Greenwich Park picnic and play
Free park entryoutdoorBring lunch and make a small walking loop with a playground stop rather than tackling every hill.
Venue information3. Regent's Park nature spotting
Free park entryoutdoorLook for birds, changing leaves and open lawns on a self-led park walk.
Venue information4. Changing the Guard
Free to watchoutdoorWatch part of the outdoor ceremony from a sensible viewing spot, checking the schedule first.
Venue information5. Science Museum object challenge
Free general entryindoorGive everyone three things to find in the free collection galleries, skipping ticketed extras.
Venue information6. Natural History Museum animal hunt
Free general entryindoorChoose a few favourite animals and compare their shapes, habitats and sizes.
Venue information
Three practical tips
- Pack food and refillable water bottles so a free-entry outing stays low-cost.
- Choose either Greenwich or central London rather than spending the day and budget on cross-city travel.
- Guard ceremonies can be crowded or cancelled; keep a nearby park as your fallback.
Before you go
Does free entry mean the whole London day costs nothing?
No. Transport, food and optional museum exhibitions may still cost money. Bringing lunch and staying in one area helps keep the total down.
What free indoor backup is near Greenwich Park?
The National Maritime Museum has free general-entry galleries nearby. Check current opening and booking requirements before you travel.
Ideas are guidance only. Please check opening times and prices before you travel.
Plan My Family Day