©www.thames-river-cruise.com
Thames Rockets
Who says kids can’t handle adventure? The Captain Kidd’s Treasure Hunt tour transforms a Thames journey into a proper pirate adventure, complete with storytelling and treasure hunting that’ll keep little ones captivated throughout the river cruise.
Location: The London Eye Pier, SE1 7PB
Distance from St Giles London: 1.4 miles, 17 minutes by tube
Price: Adults from £69.95, Children from £59.95
Booking Tip: Popular tours sell out fast – advance booking essential
Website: Thames Rockets
Kedi Studios
This isn’t your typical soft play centre – Kedi Studios is a carefully curated creative space where imagination runs wild. One-hour sessions ensure quality over quantity, while creative zones encourage artistic expression alongside physical play.
Location: Arch 91 Tiverton Street, SE1
Distance from St Giles London: 2.3 miles, 33 minutes by tube
Session Price: £55 (includes both child and adult)
Safety First: Protective gear provided, constant supervision required
Website: Kedi Studio
©www.royalparks.org.uk
Diana Memorial Playground
Ahoy, tiny pirates! This isn’t your average playground – it’s a full-scale adventure land complete with a massive wooden pirate ship, water features, and musical instruments scattered throughout. The gated entrance means safety-conscious parents can actually relax while toddlers explore their inner Captain Hook.
Location: 130 Bayswater Road, W2 2UH
Distance from St Giles London: 2.7 miles, 17 minutes by tube
Price: Completely free
Essential Kit: Towels and spare clothes for inevitable splashing
Website: Diana Memorial Plaground
Natural History Museum
Nothing quite compares to watching a toddler’s face light up when they come face-to-face with a life-sized T. rex! This world-famous museum isn’t just tolerable for little ones – it’s absolutely magical. Dinosaur skeletons tower overhead while interactive displays keep curious hands busy, and the best part? It’s completely free!
Location: Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD
Distance from St Giles London: 2.8 miles, 25 minutes by tube
Budget-Friendly Bonus: Free entry with paid special exhibitions
Buggy Hack: Exhibition Road entrance = shorter queues and easier access
Website: Natural History Musuem
Young V & A
Fresh from its 2023 makeover, Young V&A has transformed into a toddler wonderland where everything is designed for little hands and big imaginations. The dedicated sensory zone is pure magic for under-5s, while morning storytelling sessions add extra enchantment to your visit.
Location: Cambridge Heath Rd, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA
Distance from St Giles London: 3.7 miles, 21 minutes by tube
Price: Free (with some paid workshops)
Parent Perks: Buggy parking and family café make this genuinely stress-free
Website: Young V&A
Clissold Park
Two playgrounds, a mini zoo, butterfly dome, and seasonal paddling pool – Clissold Park is basically every toddler’s wish list come true. Watch little ones make friends with goats and deer, then burn off energy on age-appropriate play equipment.
Location: Off Church Street/Green Lanes, N16 9HJ
Distance from St Giles London: 3.8 miles, 42 minutes by tube
Price: Free
Website: Clissod Park
Mudchute Park and Farm
Escape to the countryside without leaving London! This incredible urban farm lets toddlers get up close with friendly animals while parents enjoy stunning city skyline views. It’s basically a rural adventure with a Zone 2 postcode.
Location: Pier Street, Isle of Dogs, E14 3HP
Distance from St Giles London: 6.4 miles, 35 minutes by tube and DLR
Price: Free (donations appreciated)
Weather Wisdom: Wellington boots are your friend after rainy days
Website: Mudchute
Discover Children’s Story Centre
Step into a world of imagination at Discover Children’s Story Centre, where two magical floors – the Story Worlds and the Story Garden – offer immersive play areas designed to spark creativity. Children can explore mysterious caves, command spaceships, perform in puppet castles, and uncover hidden sculptures scattered throughout these enchanting spaces.
Location: 383–387 High Street, London E15 4QZ
Distance from St Giles London: approx. 7 miles, 23 minutes by tube
Price: From £9.00 per child/adult (under 1s go free); discounts available for families and groups
Tip: Book tickets in advance, especially during weekends or school holidays, as popular sessions can sell out quickly.
Website: Discover Children’s Story Centre
©Polka Theatre
Polka Theatre
Polka Theatre stands as one of the UK’s premier children’s theatres, creating captivating performances tailored specifically for young audiences. Beyond the charming productions, families can enjoy interactive spaces, a welcoming café, and dedicated play areas. The theatre also boasts a sensory garden where little ones can explore and unwind before or after their show.
Location: 240 The Broadway, London SW19 1SB
Distance from St Giles London: approx. 9 miles, 43 minutes by tube
Price: Ticket prices vary by performance; generally, from £11–£18
Tip: Arrive early to enjoy the indoor play spaces and check their website for relaxed and sensory-friendly performances.
Website: Polka Theatre
Bach To Baby
Bach to Baby is an award-winning concert series for babies, toddlers, and their families – making classical music accessible, engaging, and enjoyable for all ages. Performed by professional musicians in beautiful venues across London, each concert blends high-quality music with a relaxed, welcoming environment where children are free to move, dance, and play.
Location: Various venues across London
Price: Around £15 per adult (children go free); family passes available
Tip: Arrive early to get a good spot. Be sure to check the schedule online for themed concerts and special guest performances.
Website: Back to Baby
There you have it, family adventurers! Ten spectacular destinations that prove London absolutely adores its tiniest visitors. From prehistoric giants to playground pirates, creative studios to urban farms, the capital offers endless opportunities for magical family memories.
With comfortable accommodations at St. Giles London and this curated guide to toddler-approved attractions, you’re all set for the perfect family London adventure. Ready to show your little ones why London is one of the world’s greatest cities? Book your stay today!
