House of Commons and Big Ben, London, England

London is a vibrant city with something for every family member, and staying in an apartment near Leicester Square provided the perfect home base for our family adventure. With the bustling city at our doorstep, we balanced iconic sights, culinary treats, and unique experiences throughout our stay. Here’s a glimpse of our visit to London with kids:

Where We Stayed

Choosing an apartment from Booking.com near Leicester Square made exploring the heart of London so convenient. With theaters, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance, we had easy access to everything while still enjoying the comforts of an apartment where the family could unwind after each day’s adventures.

Morning Rituals: Coffee and Pastries

Our days began with a stop at Page Common Coffee House, a cozy café known for its delicious pastries and rich coffee. It became our morning ritual to fuel up before the day’s explorations, and the kids enjoyed picking out their favorite pastries.

Classic British Eats: From Fish & Chips to Elevated Dining

London’s food scene kept us happily exploring from one meal to the next. We started with a classic at Hobson’s Fish & Chips in Charing Cross. Their crispy, golden-battered fish and thick-cut chips made for a comforting meal, and the authentic experience was a highlight for Zoey. Other culinary stops included:

  • Sophie’s Soho for a cozy, family-friendly steakhouse dining atmosphere.
  • Brat, a Michelin starred restaurant where we savoured a variety of flame-grilled fish, shellfish and meats with a seasonal twist. The grilled fish in particular was a hit for the kids. Make grilled seafood at home with this grilled Portuguese prawn recipe!
  • Duck & Waffle, where we dined high above the city with stunning views, and the kids loved the novelty of “brunch in the sky.”
  • Old Shades, a classic British pub with welcoming vibes, where we enjoyed a traditional Sunday Roast.

Seven Dials food hall offered a mix of food stands, making it a fun and interactive dining experience where everyone could try something new.

Swift Soho cocktail bar was a special treat to meet up with an old friend!

Family-Friendly Sights and Experiences

London’s iconic landmarks added an educational and visually exciting element to our trip. We visited:

  • Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster for their historic architecture and significance.
  • Buckingham Palace for the Changing of the Guard, a sight that thrilled Zoey.
  • Tower Bridge to take in views over the River Thames.

The double-decker buses became our favorite mode of transport, allowing us to sightsee while relaxing between stops. We also jumped on a ferry when near the river, giving us a different perspective of the city’s landmarks, but this was not the most convenient mode of transportation.

Zoey’s NFL Debut

One of the unique highlights was attending an NFL game in London, with the Minnesota Vikings facing off against the New York Jets. This was Zoey’s first NFL game, and the energy of the stadium and the thrill of seeing her favorite team in action made it a memorable experience.

Kid-Centric Adventures: Paddington, Playgrounds, and Eye-Opening Views

While Zoey and Andrew were at the game, Marina and Sydney enjoyed a more kid-centric tour, visiting:

  • Paddington Station, where they found the famous Paddington Bear statue.
  • Diana Memorial Playground with its pirate ship and interactive play spaces, perfect for children to explore.
  • The London Eye, which offered them a bird’s-eye view of the entire city—an exciting way to see London’s layout from above.

Artistic Discoveries in Shoreditch

Our explorations took us to Shoreditch, a neighborhood famous for its street art. We sought out Banksy’s art, which became a mini scavenger hunt. Shoreditch’s vibrant, artsy vibe added a new dimension to our trip and was a great way to show the kids a different side of the city.

Reflections on a Memorable Trip

London provided a rich blend of history, culture, and family-friendly activities. From the double-decker buses to the iconic sights and diverse food options, there was something for each of us to enjoy. This trip has left us with cherished memories, and it’s safe to say we’ll be back for more London adventures.