Four free places to take kids in London

Prior to becoming a Masters student at Westminster last September, I had spent the last nearly two years working as an au pair in London.

As part of one of my current assignments – to produce a front page of a newsletter – I wrote a piece about places to take children, for free, in London.

And because it isn’t always an easy task to find free activities in London, I thought I’d share it.

The great thing about these activities/places is that they are just as much fun for grown-ups as they are for kids!

Mudchute Park and Farm

© Copyright Danny Robinson and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence

Out in East London, Mudchute Park is home to over 200 different animals and birds, including sheep, llamas, donkey and chickens.

Activities include a ‘pets corner’ and an ‘animal encounter’ sessions where children touch the animals.

The park is open every day and the farm Tuesday to Sundays, 9AM-5PM. To get there take the DLR and get off at Crossharbour.

Horniman Museum

© Copyright Chris Gunns and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence

The Horniman is a free museum, and gardens that lets children explore and learn about the natural and cultural world.

Particularly interesting is the taxidermy gallery where children can see all sorts of animals including a stuffed walrus.

The aquarium however does incur a small charge: £1.20 for children up to 16 and £2.50 for adults.

Open daily (except December 24-26) from 10.30 to 5.30. To get there take the London Overground to Forest Hill.

Diana Memorial Playground

© Copyright Caroline Hampton and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence

Located in Kensington Gardens, this playground, suited for 1-12 year-olds, was inspired by J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan.

It has a giant wooden pirate ship, tepees, swings, a climbing frame and much more.

In case the little ones get hungry, there is a kiosk/café just outside the entrance selling both hot and cold food

Opening hours vary throughout the year, so it’s best to check out the website before visiting.

Science Museum

© Copyright Christine Matthews and licensed for reuse under the Creative Commons Licence

This museum enables children to get hands-on and interactive in the world of science.

With over 23 galleries, including Who Am I?, Making of the Modern World and Exploring Space there is something for everyone.

Of particular interest to young children are the galleries with vintage cars, locomotives and planes.

The museum is located in South Kensington (get off at South Kensington Tube on the District, Circle and Piccadilly lines) and is open every day (except December 24-26) from 10-6PM.

What free places do you like to go to in London?