London, England
A Royally Cool Trip
London’s calling, and it’s packed with awesome sights and magical surprises! Imagine zooming past Big Ben on a red double-decker bus, waving to the Queen’s guards (they won’t wave back, but it’s fun to try!), or stepping into the world of Harry Potter. From royal palaces to quirky museums, London’s got something for every little (and big) explorer. Get ready for a jolly good time in this amazing city where history meets fun around every corner!
Family Insider Tips
KeeKee Corner
What to See & Do
Big Ben
The iconic Clock Tower of the Palace of Westminster, often called Big Ben, is actually Elizabeth Tower. Big Ben is the name of the Great Bell INSIDE the Tower. Ringing in at 14-tonnes, it’s the size of a small elephant.
The world-famous clock has kept the exact time for the nation since 1859.
Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace first became a royal home is 1689 and is best known as the home to Diana, Princess of Wales. It’s now the official Resident of TRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their children. Open daily, you can walk in the steps of royalty.
And don’t miss Kensington Gardens’ Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground and the Diana Memorial Walk that leads you to Hyde Park.
London Eye
This is the huge observation wheel you see towering over the city. It’s as tall as the Pyramid of Giza.
Built to celebrate the Millennium year, it’s just across the River Thames (the longest river in England running through the middle of London) from the Houses of Parliament.
While it may not be on your Top Things to do in London list as it’s a bit touristy, we love it for the amazing views over the city. And it’s especially fun for the kids.
You can take a ride just like KeeKee and Will do in her London adventure. One a clear day you can see for up to 25 miles (40 km).
Check out hours of operation and admission prices at the London Eye website.
Buckingham Palace
& Changing the Guard
Buckingham Palace is the King (and Queen) of the United Kingdom’s official and main royal home.
The British monarchy has lived here since 1837, beginning with Queen Victoria.
When the King is home, you can see the royal flag, the Royal Standard, flying above the Palace.
Five regiments of Foot Guards guard the Palace wearing red jackets and tall, furry hats called bearskins. You can see the Changing the Guard each morning at 11 am (10 am on Sundays).
The Palace is open to visitors during the summer. Get more details at the Buckingham Palace Royal Residences page.
Changing the Life Guard
While Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace is on every Top 10 Things to Do in London list, we LOVE the Changing the Queen’s Life Guard on Horse Guards Parade.
These guards on horseback have been standing watch at the entrance to Buckingham Palace since 1660.
The majestically dressed horses and cavalry perform their ceremony daily at 11 am weekdays (10 am Sundays). There are smaller crowds and no railings so you get amazing views.
The Royal Mews
A mews is a group of stables, typically with rooms above. These mews are the Royal Stables built 500 years ago.
They are still an amazing working stable today that you can visit (February – November).
The Mews is home to the Royal Family state coaches and other carriages along with about 30 horses that the Queen names! You’ll also get to see the state motor cars.
Coachmen, grooms, chauffeurs, and other staff are accommodated in flats, or apartments, above the carriage houses and stables.
Shakespeare’s Globe Theater
The historic indoor/outdoor theater was originally built in 1599 by Williams Shakespeare, the famous playwright and poet, and his theater company.
KeeKee lands here in her London adventure!
The current theater is the 2nd reconstruction of the original Globe theater. The original burnt to the ground in 1613.
When over this way, you can also walk across London Bridge, made famous by the English nursery rhyme. While it has been rebuilt many times over its 2,000-year history, the current bridge is not falling down! ;)
Afternoon Tea
One of our highlights when visiting London is Afternoon Tea.
England’s afternoon tradition tea dates back to 1840 when the seventh Duchess of Bedford asked for a tray of tea, bread, and butter be served in the afternoon to tide her over until the later dinner. It became a habit and she started inviting friends to join.
You can have your own at many spots around London. Our favorite is when visiting Kensington Palace. You can pop next door to the Kensington Palace Pavilion and Tea Room for a delicious tea looking out on the Palace. Be sure to make a reservation…it’s even on Open Table to make it easy.
Tower of London
Tower of London is the historic fortress sitting along the Thames River. Having served as a palace AND a prison, there is much to explore here.
The Tower is home to six ravens and 37 ceremonial guards wearing uniforms like those from Tudor times.
It’s also home to The Crown Jewels, including the royal scepter with one of the largest diamonds in the world!
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge, the iconic and most well-known bridge in London, opened in 1894. It’s often confused with London Bridge.
It’s a great place to visit with panoramic views above the River Thames including looking down through the Glass Floor! You can also explore the Engine Rooms which is super fun for kids.
Plan your visit by exploring the Tower Bridge website.
British Museum
The British Museum was founded in 1753 and opened its doors in 1759. It’s the first national public museum of the world.
Here you can explore over two million years of history and culture in over eight million works all for free.
Our favorites are the Rosetta Stone and The Egyptian Collection.
Visit the British Museum website for the most up-to-date information.
