Lee Boulton - Kids in London

“I’m a dad myself - a father of three boys. So when it comes to kids, I’m pretty in tune with them. I see these families travelling together and I know it can be tricky. I’m here to make the experience as easy and happy, for both the parents and children, as possible.”

My Favourites: 

1. Private Treasure Hunt Tours - An exciting, unique adventure around London for the whole family 
2. London Transport Museum - Impressive, interactive exhibits where the kids can play
3. Borough Market - Keep everybody happy with amazing food to suit all tastes. 
4. RIB Rides on Thames - It’s such an exciting way to see the city and the children love it
5. Kew Gardens - Brilliant playgrounds, tennis courts, and all these big, lovely old trees. It’s educational, while being fun!

A Treasure Trail through London

One of the hotel’s exclusive and unique experiences is our treasure hunt tour. Working with a private guide company, we create this whole narrative, such as the Crown Jewels have been stolen from the Tower of London and it’s the children’s job to track them down. The tour starts in the morning, and families will come to the Concierge desk for their first clue, which I am always very happy to present them with. 

All of the tour guides and drivers are actors and in costume, and it’s just such an amazing and interactive way to see and explore the city.  While the treasure hunt is aimed at children, parents love it too, so it’s a really fantastic family bonding experience.

Life in Motion 

The London Transport Museum has always really stood out to me, and my children absolutely love it. Its location, in Covent Garden, is a great area to take kids because of all the activity - the street performers, wonderful food stalls, and just so much to see and do. But the Transport Museum… it’s just such a lovely space to run around and lose yourself in. 

It’s very safe, and the children are free to climb aboard all of these original Victorian trams and buses. They’ve even got this virtual room where children can drive the trains and cars themselves. My kids have been back again and again, and every time I send a family there, they return delighted and wanting to visit again.

High-flying adventures and river thrills

Kew Gardens is a must. Children can explore all the different gardens, like the Air, Sun, and Water Gardens, each with a different theme. I especially suggest the high treetops walkways as a fun family experience. It’s like stepping into a different world, high above the ground wandering through this enchanted forest. 

For rainy days, I often suggest embracing the weather with a Thames RIB boat ride, a thrilling way to see the city with a blend of speed and sightseeing. They even offer a James Bond-themed experience where you go on a high-end speed chase all the way to the Millenium O2. 

Alternatively, GoBoat trips are perfect for a relaxed day out. Families can bring picnics along and just enjoy good food and quality time during a leisurely cruise for two hours. This is especially enjoyable during the summer months. 

Diverse delights for the picky eaters 

Borough Market is my top recommendation for families, as it caters to all preferences, especially children who are fussy eaters. I often take my children to the market because there’s something for everyone and we all leave happy and full. One of my sons absolutely despised mushrooms. He would not touch them. Then we discovered this famous risotto mushroom stall there, which was a hit and he’s raved about it since. Look out for the Bread Ahead bakery, too - they make these delicious doughnuts and have a cookery school, too.