Political writer Samuel Johnson once said "when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life, for there is in London all that life can afford." Obviously, three hundred years ago man wasn't expected to lug his family along on holiday to one of the most expensive cities in the world. On the other hand, the only real entertainment options for kids in 17th century London were picking a few pockets or being stuffed up a sooty chimney stack with a broom, and they could just as easily do that at home.
Today's London offers far more child-friendly attractions. The tourism industry has developed to cater to family needs and budgets in huge leaps over the past few hundred years. There is now any number of attractions specifically tailored to meet the squealing, screaming, whining, pouting demands of little people, as well as special activities for children at many major London sights.
The secret of success for family outings in London seems to be to tell them as much as you can about the attractions and history of the city, and then let them take the lead. More often than not, they will get the biggest thrills out of the familiar favourites - the Changing of the Guard, clambering over the HMS Belfast, peering down on London from the top of St Paul's Cathedral, rowing in Regent's Park, and staring up as Big Ben strikes the hour. You might also be surprised at how much they already know from school, and end up being dragged along to the Museums and Galleries yourself.
London is a fun destination to share as a family, and despite the concerns of many parents, it doesn't have to break the budget. There are many great places to visit and cost effective ways to them. There are family cards such as London Pass that offers a very cost effective way to do and see many things and keep the kid's entertained and also activities that cost nothing like museums and parks.
Either way you should do your research before you arrive in London as planning on the spur of the moment is a sure fire way of costing you more than you bargained for.
About the Author
Gareth Owen is the owner and originator of the London Vacation Guide. For Further information on visiting London go to http://www.londonvacationguide.com
