Hidden Gems for Unforgettable Family Adventures in London

London is one of the world’s most iconic cities; it is packed with world renowned landmarks, home to cultures from all over the world, and is one of the most culturally rich spots in Europe, which is saying something. 

However, sometimes we need to experience something different; whether you’ve been heading to the capital for years and need a fresh experience, or it’s your first time and you want to get to know London in its true, quirky and exciting form, this is the place for you.

There is no shortage of hidden gems within the bounds of this wonderful city, and the more you’re willing to explore, the more secrets you’ll unlock.

Let’s get beyond the crowds of tourists and line up some experiences that will spark curiosity, creativity and connection, perfect for making memories that will last much longer than the day itself. 

Here are some of the most unique and family-friendly things to do in London, offering you and your family an adventure that takes you off the beaten track and into the exciting unknown.

Worldwide Excitement in the City Limits 

If you’re the type of family that loves a challenge and thrives on teamwork, then immerse yourselves in the well-loved Race Across the World Experience. 

We’ve all watched the TV show and duly argued about who would end up getting out first; well, now you can prove yourselves for real. Test your problem solving skills, ability to think on your feet, practicality in this thrilling and immersive race across the city. 

Solve problems, discover clues, and chase leads in the real world as you compete in a fast-paced adventure that will be sure to last in your memories for years to come. 

It really is the ideal way to have a different kind of family day together, one that is packed with excitement, puzzles, collaboration and more than a few laughs; you’ll also end up seeing an awful lot more of the city than you would on a regular walking tour, so it’s really a win-win.

Mudchute City Farm

The skyscrapers of Canary Wharf are iconic, making visitors think of suit-wearing business people bustling around, and important work being done in some financial sector or other; what few expect from this area is to find a fully working farm. 

Sheep graze in the shadow of the UK’s tallest buildings, kids can meet llamas and donkeys, pigs and goats snuffle for food and the vibe is pretty bucolic all round. Parents can enjoy cafes and BBQs whilst the kids can interact with rare birds, learn to care for farm animals, and experience horse riding. 

It’s truly one of the most surprising and wholesome activities in London, and makes for the perfect inner-city family day out, not to mention it’s free to enter! 

Talk about making lifelong memories, what could be better for young kids than interacting and caring for animals?

Little Venice Canal Walk & Puppet Theatre Barge

London is home to nearly 10 million people, which is around 12 or 13 percent of the entire population of the UK. 

As you can imagine, these figures contribute to the city’s incredible culture and diversity, but they can also lead to streets and tourist hotspots feeling more than a little busy.

So, the search for hidden gems can include peace and serenity, and this is exactly what Little Venice has in spades. Colourful houseboats line placid canals, cafes spill out onto the towpath, and there is a surprising surplus of wildlife, so much so you’d be forgiven for forgetting you were still in the heart of the city. 

What’s more, for an extra touch of unforgettable magic, you can head to the UK’s only floating puppet theatre; yes, you did read that right.

It’s an enchanting way to spend a peaceful afternoon in the city, and the perfect way to introduce your kids to the wonders of theatre; it’s one of the city centre’s hidden gems.

Eel Pie Island

However displeasing an eel pie may sound, this little island on the Thames is something truly special, and don’t worry, they don’t make eel pies here anymore. 

Eel Pie Island has a fascinating history; once home to a hotel that hosted some of the greatest musicians of all time (we’re talking the likes of The Who, Eric Clapton and The Rolling Stones), this island became one of the UK’s foremost hippie communes, and is now an artistic boho paradise.

The island is only open to the public on select dates, but it’s packed to the brim with oddities, artistic flair, handmade products, galleries and plenty of awesome vibes. Families can wander the alleys, explore open studios, meet artists, and explore one of the quirkiest and most interesting parts of London.

It’s certainly one of the most unusual things to do in London, which is saying something in a city packed with extraordinary things to do, and it’s something that you and the entire family will remember for a long time to come. 

The Postal Museum & Mail Rail Ride

On the face of it, this may seem like something no kid would ever be interested in, and very few adults for that matter. 

But the reality is totally the opposite; in fact, aside from the big 6 museums in the city, this one has to be the most exciting. London has a vast history with underground transport, but did you know that the city’s post was once carried via secret tunnels under the city between depots?

And what’s even more exciting is, you can still ride this underground postal train. There are hands-on exhibits for children and adults alike, and plenty of secrets to unlock along the way. 

This is a unique relic from a fascinating period of the capital’s long and illustrious past, and experiencing it is a true pleasure; this truly is a hidden gem in a city glistening with jewels. 

Crystal Palace Dinosaurs

Before Jurassic Park, and well, any other movies for that matter, London had its very own dinosaurs. 

These Victorian era statues were once the height of science and the largest of their kind in the entire world. Nowadays, they are seen as somewhat scientifically inaccurate, but that simply adds to their charm. 

There are around 30 humongous stone dinosaurs spread around the park, meaning you and the kids will have to set off on an expedition to find them hidden amongst the trees and in the shallow waters of the lakes.

The stone creatures can turn an ordinary walk in the park into a prehistoric adventure, and are some of the most unusual, underrated and exciting things to see in London, without spending a single penny. 

Thames Clippers by Night

We all know how beautiful London is, and if you’re an experienced London day tripper, you may well feel like you’ve seen it all; well, it’s time to think again. 

Imagine gliding down the Thames by night, with the Houses of Parliament illuminated on your left hand side, the bright colours of the London Eye on your right, and the twinkling city high-rise lights ahead of you.

It may seem too fantastical, but it is a reality thanks to the city’s ferry operators, meaning you and the family can finish off the perfect day exploring the city’s hidden gems with a nighttime river cruise that you’ll be certain to remember for a long time to come. 

This really hits the sweet spot of being a nice, easy jaunt and an incredibly memorable and beautiful activity, and is sure to remain special in your memories for the rest of your lives. 

London’s Hidden Gems

London delivers blockbuster attractions by the bucket load, but it also rewards those who look deeper, those who seek out the hidden corners, the quirky adventures and the unexpected surprises. 

You may well be familiar with the classics, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace and the rest, but the more layers you peel back, the more London will give you as a reward. 

Whether it’s solving puzzles, meeting farm animals that call the city centre home, hunting for dinosaurs, or cruising the Thames by night, there is something to keep every member of your family entranced and excited. 

If you’re looking for things to do in London with kids, then look no further than the stunning features on this list. 

The next time you’re planning a family day out in the city, consider swapping the predictable for something truly unforgettable.