What can we see and do with teens in London England

Let’s start by being honest London is big and busy. Our two teen girls had been looking forward to visiting London again. It had been 5 years since we were last in London. It is not like a family in Australia can just pop over to London for a visit anytime.

Planning Tips for travel to London with teenagers

As i just mentioned London is a big city and some planning is needed to get the most out of your time in the city. We always consult with our two teens to see what they would like to do in any given city we visit. We sit down as family and watch YouTube guides a lot of the time, we find that we get the best information from YouTube.

One thing about London is do not over plan because you never know what the traffic is like, how crowded the metro is, what the weather is like and more. All these things can contribute to you not seeing all you have planned for the day in London. Your better to under plan then add activities if time allows.

Below i have listed information about the Go London Pass, it can be quite good and save you money on entries at some London attractions. To be honest you need to compare what you are planning to see with are these a places part of the Go London Pass. Only then will know if its good value for money

Things to do in London with teenagers

Luckily for our family we arrived in London on the Eurostar from Paris, which in itself was not without issue as we missed our train and had to rebook tickets.

So anyway the advantage of arriving in London from Paris instead of Australia is, no jetlag. The ment our family would be able to hit the streets of London as soon as we checked into our hotel.

Tower Bridge, London’s Iconic River Crossing

Tower Bridge London, is one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Britain. Spanning across the River Thames, it has become an internationally recognised symbol of the city’s history and development. Whether you’re planning a visit to London for a holiday or just want to take in its beauty, Tower Bridge is a must-see attraction.

Standing at 213 feet high, visitors get panoramic views over the river Thames and some of London’s most famous sites including The Shard and St Paul’s Cathedral. Visitors can explore both high levels connected by two walkways that provide stunning views over the city skyline.

There are a number of tours that you can do to learn more about the Tower Bridge. The Tower Bridge Experience takes you to the top, and a glass walkway is the best option for seeing and learning about the bridge.

Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds is a wax museum, but our girls treated it more like a photo studio. The figures are hyper-realistic, so you get some pretty convincing photos with your favourite singer or a member of the Royal Family.

Book your tickets online to skip the queues.

Attractions for teenagers in London – The London Eye 

The iconic London Eye offers families some of the best views of London! These giant glass pods offer a unique perspective of the city, showcasing famous landmarks like Big Ben, Parliament House, and the winding River Thames.

A few things our girls liked about it:

• You get a slow rotation in a climate-controlled capsule with 360-degree views over the city.
• Sunset slots are worth booking if you want good photos.
• There’s also a 4D cinema experience you can combine with your ride.

Book your tickets online in advance to skip queues and secure your preferred time slot.

Combining entry tickets for two or more attractions is a great way to save money. You can purchase a Madame Tussauds and London Eye ticket at a discount price.

Things for teenagers to do in London – The London Dungeons

The London Dungeon follows the successful formula of the other Dungeon sites across Europe and the UK. It is one of the most popular things for teens to do in London on the South Bank.

The concept is half history and half horror as you are taken through the gory history of London on a 1-hour experience with actors, lighting displays, props and much more at the London Dungeon.

The London Dungeon is a highly popular attraction in cities worldwide and is also high on the list of London attractions for teenage tourists. The Dungeon is located right next to the London Eye. Book your entry tickets today.

SeaLife London Aquarium

You will find many things to do in London with tweens. SEA LIFE London Aquarium is home to over 500 species in 14 themed zones over three floors, showcasing marine life worldwide.

See Sharks, Octopus and more, join one of the many daily interactive sessions and learn more about the animals behind the glass at SeaLife London. Book your SeaLife adventure today.

If you are looking to save on attractions in London, why not buy a combined Madame Tussauds and SealIfe Entry ticket and save

Camden Town

Ditch the tourist traps for an afternoon and dive into the vibrant, quirky world of Camden Town.

• Camden Market is huge and worth a wander, stalls sell everything from vintage clothing to jewellery and quirky souvenirs.
• Regent’s Canal runs along the back of the market, buskers and artists set up along it and there are some good cafes overlooking the water.
• Keep an eye out for the resident Camden punks, still rocking their 70s style around the market.

• Camden’s streets are covered in brightly painted shopfronts and 3D street art, so it’s worth having your camera ready. There’s also a photography walking tour if you want a guide to show you the best spots.

• Cyberdog is worth a look too, it’s an underground shop full of neon and futuristic gear, techno music and a giant metallic cyborg guarding the entrance.

Related Post: 27 best things to do in Liverpool with teens

Places in London for Teenagers – Brick Lane

In Brick Lane, you can explore some of the many markets hidden down its back alleyways. You will find vintage fashion, eco-friendly bamboo products and a variety of Brick Lane bric-a-brac.

These fun family activities in London are also a great place to soak up the atmosphere, try one of the street’s famous bagels or even stay for a legendary Brick Lane curry. Curry is the national dish of England and one of the most popular things to eat.

If you want family-friendly things to do in London, you should tour the urban art in the Shore Ditch area by Brick Lane. You can find a more extensive write-up on street art later in the article.

Top things to do in London for teenagers – British Museum

One of the best experiences for teenagers in London is a visit to the British Museum. The British Museum is home to a vast collection of items from all over the world.

The museum has something for every travelling teenager, whether it is Egyptian mummies, the Rosetta Stone or the Hoa Hakananai’a.

The British Museum has roughly 80,000 items on display at any one time. This is a popular choice with families visiting London and one of the best world schooling things to do in London with teenagers. Book a British Museum ticket here

Discover more: Take a trip back in time and visit York with teenagers

Visit Hyde Park on a holiday to the capital of England

On a sunny day, Hyde Park can provide entertainment for the whole family in London. You can dip your toes in the Dianna Memorial Fountain (one of the great free things to do in the city), hire a rowing boat on the Serpentine or even try some open-air swimming at the Lido.

Bring a picnic or stop at one of the many cafés in Hyde Park for a bite to eat. A real highlight, if you bring an apple, is to head to the Peter Pan statue by the Italian fountains and feed the bright green parakeets who have taken up residence in the park’s trees.

You may end up looking like the bird lady from Mary Poppins, in the nicest possible way. Feeding the birds is a fun family activity in Hyde Park.

The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros London Studio Tour

If you have a Harry Potter fan in your household then a trip to the Harry Potter Studios in London is a London bucket list item that has to be ticked off. Visit the film studio near London where the movies were filmed and see original sets and reconstructions of places from the movie.

Teens will love the Studio Tour London and all the original sets and props. You will even get a chance to have yourself a butter beer on the studio tour, it’s definitely one of the cool things to do in London with teens on your vacation.

Tower of London

London has thousands of years of history to share, and one of the most visually appealing London family attractions is the Tower of London. No family trip to London is complete without a visit to its 900-year-old White Tower.

The fortified complex is home to Royal Suits of Armour, the infamous Ravens are the stars of the show and the Crown Jewels. The Crown jewels are a sight to see, with the Cullinan Diamond and the Sword of Mercy.

Catch one of the entertaining tours run by the Beefeaters, who have each seen 20 years of military service and enjoy telling tales of royal beheading and Princely murder.

The Tower of London is one of the best activities in London for teenage tourists. Consider doing a VIP Tower of London and Crown Jewels Tour with Private Beefeater Meet & Greet to get the most out of your visit.

Houses of Parliament

If the weather has turned bad and you are looking for things to do indoors in London, watch a live debate in the House of Commons, with the added opportunity of getting a glimpse of the Prime Minister or another celebrity politician.

Alternatively, take a family tour (kids go free) behind the scenes for a chance to walk through the old Palace of Westminster, explore the extravagant House of Lords and stand on the green benches usually occupied by MPs. The building is located next door to Westminster Abbey.

For many, this is one of the best things to do in London with teenagers for world schooling.

Imperial War Museum for teens in London

The Imperial War Museum is the perfect place to take teens visiting London with an interest in modern history. In front of the building, you will find a piece of the Berlin Wall itself.

Head inside for a life-sized display of military vehicles and an incredibly moving exhibition on the holocaust (with an advisory for those over 14). Places like this can get busy on school holidays.

Read more: Thrilling teen adventure activities all over the UK you have to try!

Powerboat down the Thames

The mighty Thames River runs through the heart of the city and London sightseeing from the water is one of the best family activities in London with kids.

All the major London tourist attractions, such as The London Eye, Big Ben and Parliament House, occupy prime real estate on its banks. A super-fast boat takes you at speeds up to 35 miles (56 km) down the river.

This seat-of-your-pants teens adventure experience will have you zooming along on a rigid inflatable boat past iconic landmarks like Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the London Eye. Onboard commentary will educate and entertain you, and this small group London experience for teenagers.

Indoor Skydiving

Indoor skydiving is a new trend that is catching on with teenagers. It is a safe way to experience the thrill of skydiving and  the feeling of freefall in a vertical wind tunnel.

The powerful fans create an upward flow of air that allows you to float in mid-air, just like you would during a real skydive. This makes it a fun and challenging activity that is perfect for teenagers who want to try something new and exciting.

The indoor sky diving facility in London at the O2 has packages that include training, gear rental, and multiple flights.

Buckingham Palace  

In the summer months,the Palace usually opens up to the public, and you can enjoy quite a spectacular tour of its golden interior. Visiting the Royal Residence, Buckingham Palace, with teenagers would be top of most London bucket list attractions for any family in London. It is a not-to-be-missed opportunity to see life as a Monarch.

Alternatively, catch one of the daily changing of the guard processions which take place in front of the Palace, with marching bands and horse-backed soldiers on parade. Catching one of the parade ranks is one of the top free things to do in London with kids.

Travelling in England? Here are the best things to do in Manchester with teens

Things to do for teenagers in London – Catch a show

The West End has an international reputation for putting on a show and is a brilliant London evening activity for teens. Teenagers are spoiled for choice with Kion King, Frozen the musical, Stranger Things, Back to the Future or any number of whole-family classics in the West End.

The theatres in the West End themselves are lavishly decorated, and a ticket to a show makes for a memorable evening out on the town in London with a teenage girl.

If your travelling teen is studying Shakespeare at school (aren’t they all?) one of the best London activities with teenagers is a visit to the replica of Shakespeare’s 17^th Century Globe Theatre. Watch the performance in the non-seated pit area for the full, historically immersive experience. For this family-friendly activity in London’s west end, tickets start at only £5!

You can also book a theatre tour, run by the actors when they are not on stage, for a chance to tread the boards yourself. Put this on your London bucket list for family travel with teenagers in London.

Discover the Best Exhibitions and Shows in London

London is a city that never fails to surprise visitors. New exhibitions and shows are always popping up, from immersive art experiences to live music, pop-up dining events, and seasonal spectacles, there’s something to excite every teen.

The catch: these exhibitions and shows are rarely permanent fixtures. They tend to run for a limited season, and once they’re gone, they’re gone. That’s why it’s worth checking what’s currently on before you travel and booking tickets in advance so you don’t miss out.

One of the easiest ways to see what’s happening during your visit is browsing current events and experiences on Fever, which lists everything from immersive art installations to unique pop-up experiences happening in London right now.

Play a life sized version of Monopoly

This has to be one of the best days out in london for teenagers. Monopoly has come to life on a 5m x 15m lifesized Monopoly board.

This immersive, physical version of Monopoly in London features escape room challenges, a real jail, and giant dice.

Engage in unique challenges for the opportunity to acquire properties. Feel the excitement of orchestrating a heist in Mayfair, race against the clock to construct iconic London buildings, unravel perplexing murder mysteries, or dive into the realm of codebreakers.

Looking to catch the ferry to Europe? Here is a guide on the best ways to catch the DFDS ferry

Watch a football match with teens in London

Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports today. You can watch several teams in London, such as Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham.

You can head to stadiums such as The Emirates, Hotspur Stadium, Craven Cottage and Stamford Bridge. Even if you are unfamiliar with the sport, the arena comes alive, and the atmosphere is electric. Attending a game would have to be one of the unique activities in London for teens.

The football season in England typically runs from August through May. There are several football stadium tours that you can do, or you can buy tickets for the games.

Read more: 10 of the best cities in Europe for the best vacations for families with teenagers

Jack the Ripper walking tour

Diving into the Dark side of London’s history is the Jack the Ripper walking tour, an experience in London for teens who are in the older age bracket.

You will set off in a small group with a tour guide, where you will view photographic evidence and hear true stories about the investigation to try to find a killer.

You will be given suspect cards and clues to investigate the alleged perpetrators. The tour mixes entertainment and education to find out about the victims, suspects, and life in the poor neighbourhood of Whitechapel.

Head back to 1888 with your expert Ripperologist guide as you try to solve the murders that gripped London. This may be one of the things to do with teenagers in London who are a little older.

Climb the roof of the O2 Arena

The landmark, well-known entertainment arena in London is the O2 stadium, which is one of the top London tourist attractions. For thrill-seekers and young people, you can join a tour and climb the roof of the London stadium.

Your instructors will get you kitted out with a climb suit, boots and harness and deliver safety instruction before climbing the roof.

You will cross the walkway suspended 52 meters in the air. Once at the top, pause to take in panoramic views over Greenwich, the Olympic Park, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, Canary Wharf and The Shard. For Family holidays with teenagers in London, this would be a top memorable moment when visiting London.

See more of the UK: 29 amazing things to do in Glasgow with teenagers

Things to do in London for young adults – London in the Sky

How would you feel about being hoisted up on a secure dining platform 100 feet (ca. 30 m) in the air above London for a few hours? This will make a truly unique dining experience in London with teens.

London in the Sky runs for a limited period in the summer months and really is one of the coolest things for teenagers to do in London. You can choose different dining packages from breakfast & brunch right through to lunch, afternoon tea, and amazing sunset dinners.

The truly spectacular setting makes it one of London’s most memorable teen activities. For more information, click through to London in the Sky website.

Not sure what your teen will need on holiday? Click here to get all the top sellers for your travelling teens

Silent Disco

A silent disco tour is one of the more unusual things to try in London, you explore the city while listening and dancing to music through headsets as a group. It’s become quite popular with teens. Book a silent disco experience here.

Mother-Daughter Delights in London: High Tea & Spa Fun!

If you’ve got a teenage daughter with you, this is a nice way to spend an afternoon together in London.

• High tea is a proper English tradition, finger sandwiches, pastries and tea, and it’s a nice slow afternoon after a lot of walking. There are a few good venues to try, including Royal High Tea at Kensington Palace Gardens, Oblix at The Shard, The Savoy, or the Afternoon Tea Bus Ride if you want to do something a bit different.

• A spa day is another good option, saunas, steam rooms, massages, the usual. Shambhala Spa is one of the better-known ones in London.

If you’re after an outdoor adventure, Go Ape Battersea is worth the trip, it’s in Battersea Park.

• The Treetop Challenge has high ropes courses, wobbly bridges and zip lines up in the trees, if you’re not great with heights this one might be a stretch.
• There’s also the Treetop Adventure Course, which is a bit less intense but still has platforms, the Fisherman’s Net, and zip lines. Good for families with older kids (12+).

It’s a short train ride from central London, so it makes for an easy half-day trip out.

Worth checking the Go Ape website first for age and height restrictions before you book.

Bungee Jumping in Battersea

If someone in your family has been talking about bungee jumping, Battersea Park is where to do it in London (14 and above).

• It’s a 160-foot jump, with views over London’s skyline on the way down.

• Instructors take you through a full briefing and fit all the equipment before you jump, so nerves are pretty normal going in but you’re in good hands.

• Photos and videos of the jump are available to buy afterwards if you want proof it actually happened.

Check weight and height restrictions before you book, and wear comfortable clothes and shoes on the day.

Organize your London Bungee experience and book online today.

Battersea Power Station Lift 109

Battersea Power Station in South London used to be an old industrial site, it’s now been turned into a shopping and leisure precinct.

• Lift 109 takes you up in a glass elevator to the top of the north-west chimney, 109 metres above the city, with 360-degree views over London. Book tickets here.

• Electric Boulevard downstairs has a good mix of fashion stores if you want to shop after.

• There’s a good range of restaurants and cafes on site too, from casual to fine dining.

Worth checking Lift 109’s website for opening hours and prices before you go, and Battersea Park is right nearby if you want to make a full day of it.

Frameless Immersive Art Experience in London

Cities all over the world are launching these types of multi-sensory art experiences.

London is no different with Frameless featuring four galleries, showcasing 42 masterpieces in ways never seen before. Families can experience sections like “Beyond Reality,” “Colour in Motion,” “The World Around Us,” and “The Art of Abstraction. make sure your teens have their cameras ready. Book tickets today.

Amusement Arcades for London teenagers

Amusement arcades offer a variety of entertainment options for teenagers as a great way to spend a few hours having fun.

They can play the newest video games or indulge in some classic pinball machines of the past. Some of the more modern arcades will have Laser Tag, bumper cars and indoor mini golf as options.

Arcades are popular because they offer things to do that are fun and affordable to do, most arcades have a food and beverage options for you. There are some great arcades in London such as Las Vegas Arcade Soho, Funland Games Arcade and Babylon Park

Family travel tips: 9 dark tourism destinations to visit with teenagers

Adventure activities for teens in London – Abseiling

Do you like thrilling activities, the type of attraction that is half exciting, half scary and a lot challenging?

ArcelorMittal Orbit in East London is the largest sculpture in the United Kingdom, and it’s all yours to abseil down. After some short instructions, you will get suited up and ready to descend this 114-meter structure. It also abseils the ArcelorMittal Orbit, home to the world’s longest tunnel slide.

The ArcelorMittal Orbit slide has 12 twists & turns, making the longest tunnel slide a must-do thing when visiting the capital of the United Kingdom.

Night bus tour of London

Looking for things to do in London with teens at night? Why not jump on a bus tour that shows you the city all lit up? See iconic central London landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and Tower Bridge. Your included audio guide will keep you informed on this memorable tour at night.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

A hop-on hop-off bus tour is a good way to get a lay of the land, especially early on in a trip to a big city like London.

The route hits the must-see attractions, from the Tower of London to Covent Garden. Hop off wherever you like to explore, then hop back on when you’re ready to move on.

The buses are a comfortable way to sightsee without navigating the city yourselves, and there’s no shortage of breaks if the teens need them. Pack sunscreen for the open-air sections, you’ll feel the sun more than you expect up top.

Book a hop-on hop-off tour here.

We not save some money on your London family vacation and buy a combined ticket that includes a London Eye Ticket, London Hop-on Hop-Off Tour & River Cruise

Good Photo Spots in London

Social media is a big deal for teens, and getting a good photo is usually somewhere on their agenda. Red phone boxes, the bridges over the Thames, a Beefeater at the Tower of London, or afternoon tea in Covent Garden all make for decent backdrops.

• A small tripod or gimbal is worth packing if your teen wants steadier shots.
• There’s also an Instagram tour if you want a local guide to show you the best angles and hidden spots.

Event Tickets for Teens in London

West End musicals, concerts, sporting events and comedy shows are all worth booking ahead for, popular ones sell out quickly. TicketNetwork and Ticketek are reliable places to buy tickets. Worth checking age restrictions and seating options before you book.

Free Street Art in London

London has a strong street art scene and it’s completely free to explore.

• You can wander it anytime, it’s outdoors and free.
• Shoreditch and Camden Town are the best neighbourhoods for it.
• There are street art apps if you want a self-guided route, and it’s worth being aware of your surroundings while you’re looking up at walls.

Bowling in London

Bowling is an easy one to please everyone, regardless of age or skill level. Most bowling alleys double as entertainment centres, so there’s usually arcade games, food and drinks as well.

• All-Star Lanes have bowling alleys all over London and go for a retro USA 1950s vibe
• Queens Skate Dine Bowl also has skating and karaoke.

• Worth checking for family deals, and booking ahead if you’re a larger group or going at a peak time.

Axe Throwing

Axe throwing has been popping up in a lot of cities and London is no exception. Places like Whistle Punks offer a supervised, family-friendly setup, think archery but with axes, so it’s worth trying if you want something a bit different (with supervision for teens).

Not sure what your teens need on vacation? Read our guide on all the best travel essentials for teens

Cinemas in London

Sometimes a night at the cinema is exactly what a family vacation needs. London has plenty of good options beyond the usual blockbusters, including independent and arthouse cinemas.

Worth checking TripAdvisor for reviews before you pick one. A few worth knowing about are Genesis, BFI Southbank, and the Art Deco Odeon.

Escape Rooms in London

Escape rooms are a good option if your teens like puzzles, working together to crack codes and clues to get out of the themed room before time runs out.

London offers a wide variety of escape rooms with diverse themes, from pirates and mysteries to historical adventures. Check out Escape Room London or AIM Escape Rooms for centrally located options.

Search here for all the very best travel products for your family vacation to London and beyond!

Shopping in London

Shopping with teens can go either way, but London has enough variety that most teens find something they like.

• Oxford Street has flagship stores for most major brands, good for a one-stop shop.
• Camden Market and Brick Lane are better for quirkier, alternative finds.
• Harrods is worth a look even just for window shopping, and Hamleys is a good one if there are younger siblings along too.

A travelcard makes it a lot easier for teens to get around on their own if you want to split up for a bit.

It’s worth setting a rough budget together before you go, and thinking about what your teen’s actually into, a record store for music fans, an electronics store for gamers, or just wandering the markets in Covent Garden.

Teen Eats: Delicious Dining Options in London with Teens!

Family dinners on vacation are a chance to unwind and bond. But finding teen-approved restaurants can be a challenge. No worries! London offers a variety of options to keep everyone happy:

• Global Flavors: Explore international cuisines like Italian, Mexican, or Japanese. 
• Casual Classics: Burgers, fries, and pizza are always a crowd-pleaser. 
• Unique Eats: Does your teen have a quirky palate? Seek out themed restaurants, or restaurants with build-your-own menus, allowing for customization.

A Few of Our Picks:

• Classic Comfort Food: Wetherspoons pubs offer traditional British fare like fish and chips at budget-friendly prices in various locations across london.
• A Slice of Italy: Eataly brings authentic Italian cuisine to London under one roof. Choose from multiple restaurants or grab gourmet Italian products at their shops (135 Bishopsgate, London EC2M 3YD).
• Pizza Perfection: Franco Manca is a popular choice for delicious and affordable sourdough pizzas. Grab a slice near Covent Garden or St. Paul’s Cathedral.
• Culinary Entertainment: Combine fun with food at The Golf Groove. Enjoy a game of indoor golf simulation while devouring burgers, wraps, and shareable plates (Top Floor, Wimbledon Quarter, Shopping Centre, 4 Queen’s Rd, London).

Family dinners in London can be delicious and memorable. With a little planning, you can find a restaurant that caters to everyone’s taste buds!

Street Eats! Teen Food Adventures in London

Forget fancy restaurants! Dive into London’s incredible street food scene with your teens. It’s a delicious, budget-friendly adventure where they can explore unique flavors. and fill up for less.

Why it Rocks:

• Global flavors: Teens can try sizzling kebabs, steaming dumplings, tasty Bahn Mi, and Zapiekanka—a world of tastes awaits them when on vacation!
• Quick & easy: Grab a bite on the go and keep exploring the city.
• Affordable eats: More cash for fun activities!

Must-Try Treats:

• The classic fish and chips takeaway
• Chips or Fires covered in Gravy and Cheese
• Pork Pies

Tips:

• Look for vendors in popular food areas.
• Ask about ingredients & recommendations.
• Be adventurous – try new things!
• Have cash handy (some might not take cards).

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with London’s street food scene!

Free Things to Do in London

London has plenty of free things to do if you want to give the budget a break for a day. Pack a picnic for a park, or just wander and take in the architecture on a self-guided walking tour.

A few worth knowing about:

• The National Gallery, British Museum and Natural History Museum are all free to enter.

• The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is free and worth timing your visit around.

• The Southbank Centre runs free exhibitions, film screenings and events throughout the year.

With some planning and these free activity ideas, you’re all set for an exciting and budget-friendly day out with your teens in London, England!

Planning a Weekend in London

If you’ve already covered the big landmarks and museums, here are a few less obvious things to try:

• A graffiti workshop in Shoreditch, teaching spray painting techniques on a designated wall.
• Clip ‘n Climb in Chelsea, climbing walls of varying difficulty in a safe, supervised setup.
• A VR arcade like Navrtar VR in Dickens Yard.

The Visit London website is worth a browse too, and it’s often easier to let the teens have a look themselves and pick a couple of things that interest them.

Annual Events in London

A few annual events worth timing your trip around, if you can:

New Year’s Day Parade: The parade itself is free to watch, though there are ticketed grandstand areas if you want a better view.

Chinese New Year: Celebrated in Trafalgar Square with parades, performances and food stalls.

Notting Hill Carnival: A two-day celebration of Caribbean culture, with music, dance and a big street party atmosphere. More info here.

Trooping the Colour marks the monarch’s official birthday with a military parade. Some areas are ticketed, but there’s free public viewing along the route.

Greenwich + Docklands International Festival: Enjoy free open-air theater, music, art installations, and more at this summer festival across Greenwich and Docklands.

Be sure to check the official event websites closer to your travel dates for exact dates and details.

Worth checking the Visit London site closer to your trip too, in case there’s a festival or event on that you didn’t know about.

Day Trips from London

A change of scenery is worth building into a longer trip, here are a few good day trip options from London.

Most of these are around 1-2 hours away, which keeps travel time manageable:

Best Day Trips from London

• Windsor Castle, the Royal Family’s weekend residence. Worth seeing the State Apartments, Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, and the gardens.
• Stonehenge, the prehistoric monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site, always sparks good conversation about how and why it was built.
• Thorpe Park, good for thrill-seeking teens, home to Stealth, one of the fastest rollercoasters in England.
• The Cotswolds, honey-coloured stone villages and rolling hills. Bourton-on-the-Water is worth the stop, it’s known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds.”

Discover all the very best things to do in Edinburg with teenagers

Fun things to do in London for young adults

London has plenty for young adults too, from nightlife to more low-key cultural stuff.

The city’s well-connected public transportation allows easy exploration of its many attractions such as:

• Beer Bike Tours, Street Art Workshops and outdoor escape games are worth a look if you want something a bit different.

• The food scene covers everything from street food markets to Michelin-starred restaurants.

• Soho is the main area for nightlife and clubbing if that’s what you’re after.

See more of the world: All the best things to do in Barcelona Spain

Essential Packing Tips for Teens who travel

• Pack sunscreen and a hat, London gets more sun than people expect.
• Bring plenty of water, you’ll be walking a lot more than you think.
• Pack your teens’ favourite snacks, hungry teenagers make for grumpy sightseeing.
• A waterproof bag is worth having, London weather can turn on you without warning.
• A portable charger is handy, especially if the teens are taking photos and videos all day.
• Comfortable shoes are a must, London is a walking city.

With some planning, you can create lasting memories and discover hidden gems in the areas surrounding London!

Know Before You Go: London with Teens!

A little planning goes a long way, here are the practical bits worth sorting before you go.

Accommodation:
The best hotel for you will depend on your budget and priorities. Decide how much you are comfortable spending and consider how close you want to be to the attractions you want to visit. Then, consider what features are important to you, such as a pool, spa, or fitness centre.

Booking.com

• For something more luxurious, try Rubens at the Palace, Taj 51 Buckingham Gate or Claridge’s.
  • For something more affordable, try Paddington Novotel, Travelodge London Covent Garden or YHA Central London.

Consider Booking.com or Tripadvisor for deals.

Apartments offer more space – try VRBO for family-friendly choices.

If you’re looking for something fancier, discover Plum Guide’s exceptional luxury apartments, handpicked for their stunning views, prime locations, and indulgent amenities. With meticulous quality checks and a focus on unique experiences, they offer the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. Experience the extraordinary and create unforgettable memories in these exceptional accommodations.

Getting There: Landing in London

• London is well-connected by air, rail, and bus – easy family access.
• Fly into Heathrow or Gatwick Airports. Research flights with Hopper
• Catch a train to London or book a bus ticket to London
• Book airport transfers or relax in lounges with services like Priority Pass.
• Drive to London or rent a car

Getting Around:

• Efficient public transportation system (The Tube, Trains, Light Rail, Ferries and buses).
• Taxis & Uber are also available.
• Research options based on your needs.

Weather:

• Pack for the season (layers for spring/fall, warm clothes for winter).

International Visitors:

• Travel insurance is a must (quote through Insurance Masters).
• Visa or ETA requirements – check iVisa for details.
• Manage currency exchange with Revolut Travel Money card.
• Stay connected with international SIM cards or buy a pocket modem.
• Secure your data with a VPN (Surf Shark).
• Locate medical facilities (hospitals, urgent care centres).

Travel Accessories for Teens:

• Pack essentials like a powerbank, action camera, and bluetooth speaker.
• Consider a travel journal, neck wallet, and an anti theft back pack.

This article was written with Helen from www.holidaysfromhels.co.uk for us here at Wyld Family Travel. London has so much to offer teens, whatever their interests. London can be on your list for family vacations with teenagers with so much to do in the city.

Travelling with young adults, teens, and tweens has just as many issues as travelling with young children. Choosing the best teenage vacation destinations, working out a budget, deciding what bags and suitcases to take, travelling essentials, and more can be time-consuming. Planning family travel with teenagers and tweens can be stressful, and finding the best travel tips is essential. 

Our Travel with Teenagers Destination Guides have you covered! With insights from around the globe, these guides will spark inspiration for your next family vacation, making it an epic adventure with your teens.

For more unique ideas on where to holiday in England with family, click through to our England Destination Page for more brilliant inspiration.

---

More travel inspiration for your trip to England

---