London offers a wealth of exciting activities and attractions that are perfect for kids under 5. From interactive museums to captivating parks, there’s something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll share the top recommendations for entertaining and educational experiences tailored to young children in the bustling city of London.
Royal Albert Hall
Address: Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AP. South Kensington and High Street Kensington are the nearest stations.
Explore a diverse array of family-friendly shows and events at the Royal Albert Hall in South Kensington. From engaging storytelling for babies to interactive concerts with Albert’s Band, there’s something captivating for children of all ages. Visit their website to discover the current offerings: Royal Albert Hall Children and Families
Little Angel Theatre
Address: 14 Dagmar Passage London N1 2DN (theatre). Sebbon Street Community Centre Sebbon Street N1 2EH (studios). Angel and Highbury and Islington are the nearest stations. You can park for free on weekends after 1:30pm on single yellow lines.
Little Angel Theatre in Islington is renowned for its kid-friendly atmosphere, especially for those under 5. It promises a fantastic day out in London with a plethora of shows designed for young ones. Check their website for the latest show listings: Little Angel Theatre What’s On
Barbican
Address: Barbican Centre Silk Street London EC2Y 8DS. Barbican and Moorgate are the nearest stations.
In central London, the Barbican features Squish Space, a free creative play area ideal for under 5s and their families. Be sure to book in advance, as capacity is limited. For details and updates, visit their website: Barbican Squish Space
National Army Museum
Address: Royal Hospital Rd, London SW3 4HT. Sloane Square is the nearest station. Paid parking can be found on nearby roads. These roads are usually free to park on, on Saturdays after 1:30pm and all day Sunday.
Discover the National Army Museum in Chelsea, a perfect spot for under 5s. Engage in Tiny Troopers, sensory sessions tailor-made for ages 2 to 5, and explore Playbase, a soft play area for under 8s. Keep an eye out for their various activities throughout the year by checking their events page: National Army Museum What’s On
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Old Royal Naval College
Address: Old Royal Naval College, London SE10 9NN. Cutty Sark DLR, Greenwich and Maze Hill are the nearest stations. Paid car parking is available at Park Row and Cutty Sark Gardens.
Head to the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich on the third Sunday of each month for a mix of sensory activities, sand and water play, construction, and creative fun for children aged 2-5. Get more information about these engaging sessions here: Old Royal Naval College Early Years Messy Play
The Postal Museum
Address: 15-20 Phoenix Pl, London WC1X 0DA. Farringdon, Russell Square, King’s Cross St Pancras and Chancery Lane are all less than a mile away.
Explore the Postal Museum in central London, an excellent destination for young ones. Experience Post and Play sessions, fostering family bonding and learning through play for children under five, and don’t miss Sorted, an immersive mini-town designed for under 8s. Find out more here: Postal Museum What’s On
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Discover Children’s Story Centre
Address: 383-387 High St, London E15 4QZ. Stratford is the nearest station.
Discover Children’s Story Centre in Stratford, East London—a fantastic hub for young minds with a multitude of events throughout the year. Highly recommended for a delightful experience. Check their website for current events: Discovet Story Centre Events
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Museum of London Docklands
Address: No 1, West India Quay, Hertsmere Rd, London E14 4AL. Canary Wharf and West India Quay are the nearest stations.
Delve into the Museum of London Docklands in West India Quay, offering a wealth of activities for under 5s. From the interactive gallery Mudlarks to quiet sessions and Tots At The Docks, there’s plenty to engage young minds. Explore current offerings on their website: Museum of London Docklands What’s On
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RAF Museum
Address: Grahame Park Way, London NW9 5LL. Colindale and Mill Hill Broadway are the nearest stations. Paid for parking is available.
Visit the RAF museum and participate in “Little Swifts,” engaging sessions tailored for preschoolers (ages 2-5). These lively gatherings feature arts and crafts, games, stories, and songs, all connected to the museum’s incredible collection, enhancing the museum experience for young visitors. Tickets are £3.
Dulwich Picture Gallery
Address: Dulwich Picture Gallery Gallery Road London SE21 7AD. North Dulwich is the nearest station. Free parking is available on Gallery Road.
Explore interactive sessions designed for children under 5 at Dulwich Picture Gallery. Start with a guided exploration of the Gallery, discovering various subjects in our paintings, followed by a hands-on art activity. Monthly themed sessions aim to captivate young creatives and encourage diverse ways of play. Admission for adults is £15, and there are free events too; additional information can be found on their website.
British museum
Address: Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG. Tottenham Court Road is the nearest station.
Discover cost-free events tailored for children under five at the British Museum. Visit their website to stay updated on the current offerings.
The London Transport Museum
Address: London Transport Museum Covent Garden Piazza London WC2E 7BB. Covent Garden is the nearest station.
Experience Singing, Stories, and Crafts sessions for children under 5 at The London Transport Museum. These engaging sessions comprise 15 minutes of crafting and 30 minutes of interactive singing and storytelling. Attendees can enjoy these sessions for free with their museum admission. More info here.
Remember to plan your activities ahead of time to ensure availability and check the venues’ websites for any specific guidelines or age restrictions. Enjoy exploring London with your under 5s, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
