City Scout: A Family Guide to London

Faye Shearwood

Faye Shearwood, author of @meandbeau_travels gives us her insider scoop on visiting London with her three kids.

A child on a scooter in Notting Hill market.

Our favorite neighborhood in London, Notting Hill will captivate you and your children with its unique charm. Peruse Portobello Market, snap a photo next to the pastel-colored houses, and take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant and eclectic neighborhood.

Insider tip: Head to Hummingbird Bakery for the best cupcakes. We also love Fara Kids on Ledbury Road, a charity shop selling great second-hand kid’s brands.

Tucked under Waterloo Bridge next to Queen’s Walk and open 7 days a week (weather permitting), it’s one of London’s most loved second-hand book markets.

Have a rummage amongst the hundreds of books to find your pick and take home a London memento.

A child looking through the books on the Southbank book market in London.
A child sitting next to a lemur at London Zoo.

Some of our happiest London memories have been at London Zoo, a conservation zoo dedicated to helping nature in England and around the world. Located in Regent’s Park, enjoy hands-on experiences at Animal Adventure, walking through a Butterfly Paradise, getting up close to Tiny Giants (bugs), or within touching distance of lemurs, monkeys, and rainforest creatures.

Hungry after the zoo? Make a pitstop at Camden Market, showcasing some of the best street food in London.

Eat yourself around the world with lots of sweet treats for little ones and an array of stalls selling handmade toys, unique gifts, and vintage clothes. Plan a weekday visit if possible.

A child eating mini pancakes at Camden Market in London.
A child looking through the gates at Buckingham Palace in London,.

Buckingham Palace is recognized around the world as the home of the Monarch and your children will love discovering more about this famous London landmark-– a true sight to behold!

The magnificent state rooms are open every summer and children under 5 go free. Don’t miss St James’ Park right next door, which has a playground, classic London views from the lake, and pelicans.

A must for families, The London Eye (the world’s tallest observation wheel) soars high above the London skyline. Enjoy 360-degree views on the 30-minute journey with your children while spotting some of London’s most iconic landmarks and top attractions.

Insider Tip: For a cheaper and much less busy alternative, fly 90 meters above The River Thames on the UK’s first urban cable car, the IFS Cloud Cable Car.

The scenic view of the London Eye on the River Thames.

We’re Faye and Clint, parents to Beau, Evelyn, and toddler River. We are passionate about family travel and exploring the world (and the UK, our home base) as much as possible.

Our 2024 travel plans include a 3-week road trip in South Africa, a trip to Montenegro, Sicily and we also want to explore the mountains of The Lake District, UK. We are inspired by nature and our natural world.

@meandbeau_travels

Photo: @albalone

See more from our City Scouts on Instagram or browse all our family-friendly vacation rentals in London.

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Faye Shearwood

@meandbeau_travels

Mum to Beau, Evelyn + River, offering travel tips + inspo for adventure loving families

    Stay in the world's most

    Kid-friendly Homes

    View our top destinations and book your perfect family vacation today.