Weekend London Itinerary - With Kids and Without

Samuel Johnson once said, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.” For me, heading back to the city for a weekend always feels rejuvenating and reinvigorating. There’s something magical about London at night—how it comes alive, stretches on forever, stays warm, and feels full of endless possibilities.

When planning a weekend in London, there are really two types of itineraries: with kids and without. So, we’re going to dive into both!

These itineraries were created using the card game Let’s Plan a Trip to London, a deck of 54 attraction cards designed to help you visualize and optimize your travel plans. Each card features a top London destination with essential details like popularity, cost, and visit times. You can vote, shuffle, and swap cards to build a trip that fits your travel group perfectly. It’s an interactive and creative way to plan your next London adventure!

Weekend London Itinerary with Kids

A weekend in London with your family can be a true adventure that brings everyone together. When little legs get tired, you can rely on London’s excellent public transportation, or take a break at one of its many pubs or cafés to refuel and prevent meltdowns. The city is incredibly kid-friendly, with plenty of family attractions—far more so than nearby Paris, in my opinion (Euro Disney aside).

Saturday: Wildlife, Science & Theatrical Delights

Start your Saturday morning with a visit to Regent’s Park, a peaceful and spacious haven perfect for families. Kids can stretch their legs in the open spaces, while you take in the beautiful gardens and fountains. It’s an ideal spot to relax and prepare for a day full of adventure. At 10:00 AM, head into London Zoo, located within the park. Home to over 20,000 animals, the zoo’s interactive exhibits, like Land of the Lions and Rainforest Life, captivate young minds and offer hands-on learning about wildlife conservation.
Next, head to Madame Tussauds, a short ride away. Kids will love posing with wax figures of their favorite celebrities, superheroes, and sports icons. The immersive themed areas, such as the Marvel 4D Experience, make for an unforgettable family outing. Be sure to book tickets ahead to get your preferred entry time.
Afterward, head to South Kensington to explore the Science Museum, a family favorite for its interactive, educational exhibits. The Wonderlab is a highlight, offering hands-on experiments and live demonstrations designed to spark curiosity in young learners. It’s a fun, stress-free way to keep kids engaged and learning through play.
Take a short walk to Hyde Park, where your family can enjoy more time outdoors. Depending on the season, you might encounter events like the Winter Wonderland festival or boating on the Serpentine Lake. There are also playgrounds for younger children, making it a great way to let off some steam after a full day of activities.
For dinner, make your way to Covent Garden, where the vibrant atmosphere is sure to delight both kids and adults. The street performers, festive market stalls, and variety of family-friendly restaurants provide entertainment and relaxation. It’s the perfect spot to wind down with a good meal and a little shopping for souvenirs.
End your day in style at a West End theater. Saturday night performances are a highlight of the London experience, with many family-friendly shows to choose from (many more than on Sunday). From musicals to adventurous plays, you’ll find something that excites both kids and adults alike. Booking tickets early is essential for these popular performances.

Sunday: Adventure, Iconic Sights & City Fun

Begin your Sunday with an adrenaline-filled start at Go Ape in Battersea Park. This treetop adventure park features zip lines, rope courses, and climbing challenges that are perfect for older kids. Meanwhile, younger children can enjoy the Children’s Zoo nearby. The park itself offers scenic river views and walking paths, making it a great family-friendly destination. Afterward, take a short walk to the river to catch your next ride.
Hop on the Uber Boat Thames Cruise from Battersea Power Station Pier. This boat ride is both a fun and practical way to travel through London while seeing iconic landmarks along the way. Kids will love spotting Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Big Ben from the water (if you take a trip there and back). Get off at London Eye Pier for the next part of your adventure.
Now it’s time for some thrills at The London Dungeon. Combining spooky storytelling with interactive exhibits, this attraction dives into London’s dark history with plenty of humor and theatrical flair. While it’s best suited for older kids due to its scary themes, it’s an exciting and memorable experience for adventurous families. Substitute this for the nearby SEA LIFE Aquarium if your kids are a little younger.
From the Dungeon, head over to the London Eye, just a short walk away. Take a ride on this iconic observation wheel for panoramic views of the city. The enclosed pods are warm and comfortable, making it perfect for colder days. As you rise above the Thames, you’ll see Buckingham Palace, and other landmarks lit up beautifully in the afternoon light.
Once off the Eye, walk over to Big Ben and Parliament. Take some family photos with these world-famous landmarks in the background. This area is particularly stunning in the late afternoon, with reflections of the sunset on the river.
Next, continue your walk to Trafalgar Square, where the kids can explore the fountains, lion statues, and open spaces. It’s a lively spot, often featuring street performers on weekends. During the holiday season, you’ll find a giant Christmas tree and carol singers adding to the festive atmosphere.
For dinner, head to Chinatown, a short stroll from Trafalgar Square. The vibrant streets are filled with red lanterns, and there’s no shortage of restaurants serving kid-friendly options like dumplings and noodles. It’s a fun and flavorful way to introduce the family to something new.
Finish your Sunday at Leicester Square, where you can choose between seeing a family-friendly movie or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere. The square is full of street performers, and during the winter months, there’s often a festive market or holiday lights display. It’s the perfect way to end a weekend of adventure, learning, and iconic London sights.

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WITHOUT KIDS – Weekend London Itinerary

There’s nothing quite like the vibe of London on a weekend night—buzzing with energy and full of surprises. You might stumble upon a celebrity, catch an unexpected street performance, or simply be captivated by the city’s dazzling lights and iconic sights. If you liked the family itinerary above, feel free to mix and match it with this more adult-focused plan. After all, a custom itinerary always makes for a better trip!

Saturday: Markets, Culture & Evening Performances

Start your weekend itinerary at Borough Market, one of London’s oldest and most vibrant food markets. Saturday mornings are when the market is at its liveliest, with vendors offering everything from gourmet cheeses and fresh pastries to street food from around the world. It’s the perfect spot to grab breakfast and enjoy the buzzing weekend atmosphere under the historic market arches. Try a warm sausage roll or freshly brewed mulled cider to kick off your day.
Next, head to The Shard, London’s tallest building. The View from The Shard offers stunning panoramic views, particularly in the soft morning light on a Saturday. It’s a breathtaking way to get a fresh perspective on the city’s landmarks. The building’s striking design, inspired by church spires and sailing masts, gives it a commanding presence on the London skyline.
Continue your itinerary at Tate Modern, located on the bustling South Bank. Housed in a converted power station, it’s one of the world’s leading contemporary art museums. The Turbine Hall frequently hosts large-scale, immersive installations that are perfect for a weekend visit. Step out onto the riverside terrace to admire views of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Millennium Bridge, two iconic sights.
In the afternoon, explore the Imperial War Museum, which offers a thought-provoking look at the global impact of war. Saturdays tend to draw a mix of locals and tourists eager to see the powerful Holocaust Exhibition and the dramatic display of World War II planes in the atrium. It’s a moving, deeply reflective experience ideal for anyone seeking a meaningful cultural stop during their weekend trip.
For your Saturday evening, head to the National Theater. Renowned for its cutting-edge productions, the theater is a centerpiece of London’s cultural scene. Many shows that premiere here go on to become West End or film hits. Enjoy the lively weekend atmosphere with a drink at the riverside bar, where you can take in beautiful nighttime views of the Thames before settling in for a world-class performance.
From here it’s an easy trip into Soho for a taste of London’s nightlife.

Sunday: Art, Shopping & Nightlife

Start your Sunday itinerary with a visit to the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in South Kensington. This world-renowned museum is a treasure trove of decorative arts, fashion, and design. Sundays are a great time to explore its quieter corners, including the Cast Courts, where you’ll find full-scale replicas of architectural masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David. Don’t miss the peaceful John Madejski Garden, perfect for a reflective moment before heading to your next destination.
For your next stop, choose between two iconic shopping experiences. If you prefer classic luxury, head to Harrods in nearby Knightsbridge. Its Food Halls and Christmas department (during the holiday season) offer a magical, upscale shopping experience. Alternatively, visit Oxford Street, London’s busiest shopping district. Browse high-street favorites like Zara and H&M, and stop by Selfridges, known for its creative window displays and vast selection of designer goods. Whether you’re hunting for gifts or indulging in retail therapy, Sundays on Oxford Street still have a bustling energy.
In the afternoon, visit The British Museum, one of London’s most popular attractions. With its vast collection of historical treasures—including the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and Assyrian Lion Hunt Reliefs—you’ll find plenty to explore. The museum’s expansive galleries are ideal for wandering at your own pace, making it a perfect stop to balance out your day of shopping and sightseeing.
For the evening, head north to Camden Market, where you can shop for unique clothing, handmade crafts, and vintage finds. As night falls, Camden comes alive with its famous alternative vibe. Explore its many pubs and live music venues, where you can catch anything from up-and-coming indie bands to impromptu DJ sets. The atmosphere is electric on weekends, making it a perfect way to end your London trip with drinks and dancing in one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods.

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