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This is my list of "things-to-do" and "hands-on" kinds of places, that have particular appeal to children:
BATTERSEA CHILDREN'S ZOO Located within Battersea Park, this small zoo is geared toward farm and other domestic animals. Other more exotic species are featured, as well as a "Mouse House", the "Barnyard Encounter", and "Butterfly Banquets". Charge.
COVENT GARDEN Street performers, such as the jugglers and mimes that can be found in Covent Garden, are particularly appealing to the younger visitors. High energy atmosphere and non-stop activity can be a welcome break from the more formal sightseeing.
FUNLAND Arcade and game center located on Piccadilly Circus and open until midnight. Features games of all kinds, simulators, bumper cars and bowling. Free to get in, charge for activities.
GOLDEN HINDE A full-size replica of Sir Francis Drake's circumnavigating ship from the 16th century, docked in the River Thames. Staff in period costume pays special attention to the children. Charge.
HAMLEY'S TOY STORE Largest toy store in the world! Seven floors with more than 35,000 items to choose from, starting with traditional games and moving all the way up to the high tech. Store also has a café and children's play area.
KENSINGTON GARDENS & HYDE PARK Wide open spaces for children to run and play. Many activities including paddle boats, swimming, tennis, horseback riding and more.
LONDON AQUARIUM Located in the historic County Hall Building and home to more than 350 different species in 50 "living" displays. Highlights include sharks, rays, diving displays, feeds, and a touch pool. Charge.
LONDON BRASS RUBBING CENTRE Great activity for children, located at St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church. Participants make paper replicas of historic brasses. Charge.
LONDON EYE Located on the banks of the Thames, the world's largest observation wheel towers 450 feet above downtown London. Built in 2000, the slow moving yet state-of-the-art colossus gives riders a panoramic 30 minute ride. Charge.
LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM Displays of buses, trams and Tube cars, outlining the history of London's transportation system invite children to "jump on"! Features family-friendly interactive games, activities and simulators, as well as costumed characters. Charge.
LONDON ZOO This famously well-run zoo, open since 1828, is noted for its conservation and research programs. It has a world class petting zoo, fun rides, and, of course, giraffes, lions, tigers, penguins, etc. Charge.
MADAME TUSSAUD'S A popular attraction, at this site since 1884, containing first-class wax figures of notables in sports, entertainment, history and politics. Charge.
NAMCO High energy amusement center housed in the same building as the London Aquarium. Numerous video games, simulators, laser shooting ranges, etc. Food available and center is open until midnight. Free to get in, charge for activities.
NATIONAL HISTORY MUSEUM Huge and eye-catching, this museum is home to more than 50 million specimens. Though built in the 1870's, this ultra-modern attraction has a wide range of exhibits ranging from interactive displays and costumed characters, to simulated earthquakes and dinosaurs that move and roar. Free.
SCIENCE MUSEUM Located on museum row, this five-floor wonderland documents scientific achievement from the 18th century to the present. Numerous hands-on and interactive displays keep children thoroughly entertained, but there is also much to keep adults fascinated as well. Free. (IMAX theater carries admission charge).
TOWER OF LONDON A royal residence and castle for over 1000 years, the Tower was also used as a prison and place of execution. Presently home to the Crown Jewels and watched over by the red-clad "Beefeaters". Ancient weapons, armor, and costumed actors captivate all ages. Charge.
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