London with kids is calling and we are so ready to answer. In fact, we are headed back for another visit and the kids are getting involved with the planning this time. My husband and I have been to London more than a few time to play tourist, and also visit friends. While our kids have been to London, they were both babies and toddlers at the time.
Now that they are older, they want to hit the big sights. Even with limited time, we are going to do a whirlwind tour of London with kids, utilizing guidebooks and tours wherever we can to maximize our time. Here’s a few of my favorite guidebooks for parents and kids to use together to plan their next family trip to London.
Get your family excited about London with kids using these London Guidebooks
NOT FOR PARENTS GREAT BRITAIN: EVERYTHING YOU EVER WANTED TO KNOW (LONELY PLANET KIDS)
by Lonely Planet and Klay Lamprell Filled with countless facts and interesting tidbits of information, this guide book will inspire any curious traveler. Described as the “real, inside story”, this fact-based guide book includes stories about kings and queens and famous spies. Whether a trip to Great Britain is in the works or not, this book is a tremendous resource on one of the worlds most famous countries.
by Lonely Planet Kids and Andy Mansfield Pop-Up London by Lonely Planet serves as a beginners guide to the city across the pond. This book features gorgeous pop-up illustrations of the city’s most famous landmarks including Buckingham Palace and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Perfect to line a nursery shelf or inspire the youngest explorers.
by Fodor’s Travel Guides Fodor’s London guide is perfect for local families and visitors alike. The guide features 68 family friendly activities found in and around London. There are activity-based tips, suggestions for local eateries, and games to keep the kids entertained during travel.
by Lonely Planet Kids and Moira Butterfield Looking for the off-the-beaten-path guide book to London? London City Trails by Lonely Planet is definitely for you. This guide book promises to take you away from the typical tourist attractions and onto the city streets. Discover the city’s best kept secrets and interesting tales galore. Recommended reading age is 8 +
Family Guide London (Eyewitness Travel Family Guide)
by DK Travel A great guide for the entire family, the Eyewitness Travel Family Guide focuses on the kids. The book provides age specific activities, local restaurants, and places to blow off steam around specific hubs (i.e. the London Eye). The family guide book also includes activities for rainy days and games for travel days.
by Moon Travel While not strictly for kids, this walking guide book to London provides something different for families. Any guidebook that gets us out walking to explore the sights is a good one in my mind, no matter how much my youngest complains. Walking guides provide a suggested path to follow, but veering off course is never frowned upon. Use each walk as a guide to your next adventure when in London with kids.
Photos of the London phone booth, Big Ben, and red tour bus via Shutterstock. This post may contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of those links I will receive a small commission.
London Destination Guide
London Hotels
New Road Hotel: Stylish hotel with yoga room, bike rentals, and free Wi-Fi. Within walking distance of many city landmarks.
The Tower Hotel: Situated in the center of the city, The Tower Hotel is great for visitors. Onsite parking available, free Wi-Fi, and fitness center.
The Resident Kensington: Located right by Kensington Garden square, this charming hotel boasts free Wi-Fi, laundry service, and in-room breakfasts.
Looking for more? Search for great hotel deals on Booking.com.
Keryn is the founder and editor-in-chief of Twist Travel Magazine, an award-winning site that gives hope to today’s active parents who don’t want to stop their lives; they simply bring their kids along for the ride. Keryn utilizes her project management background, along with a masters degree in journalism and an undergrad degree in photography to the team to create dynamic content and a vision that keeps up with the latest technology and trends. You can find Keryn dragging her 2 boys around town and across the globe several times a year.
