When travelling to London with your parents, it can be a totally different experience than if you were to do so with your loved one, or friends. Whether it’s all of your first times visiting the city, or perhaps you’re embarking on a trip down memory lane, a visit to the capital is a great way to bond with your parents as you enjoy all of the things this wonderful city has to offer together.
If you’re looking to plan a fun-filled, parent-friendly few days in London, we’re here to help. Here are our top picks for things to do, with some extra tips sprinkled in along the way for all budgets and tastes. The bad news? Your parents won’t want to leave!
Enjoy an indulgent (and unusual) afternoon tea
One of the best things to do with your family, and whilst you’re in a new location, is to go out and experience a truly authentic meal. One of the most popular and well-loved British dining experiences is to enjoy an afternoon tea, which can be found in restaurants, bars, cafes, tea rooms and hotels across the city, At London City Suites Montcalm, we like to think our afternoon tea offers something extra special for our diners and guests. A quintessentially English affair, enlivened with creative twists should the fancy take you, it’s the icing on the cake of a pleasurable day with your parents in London. Menus include the classic afternoon tea with all the trimmings, the Chocolate edition for an extra cocoa kick, and an Indian variation for more adventurous taste buds.
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Catch a show at London’s famous West End
No trip to London would be complete without catching a show at one of our world-class and diverse theatres across the city. The West End is a vibrant area that’s full of life, perfect for exploring and having a pre-theatre drink or dinner in one of the top restaurants London city. There is always a show on to delight your parents, from the magic and nostalgic options including The Lion King and Matilda to more mum and dad-friendly favourites including Mamma Mia and The Fiddler on the Roof.
Soak up some of the city’s history
If your parents are history buffs, you absolutely must check out a few of the city’s best museums. Start things off with visits to both Westminster Cathedral and the Abbey, then saunter down the stunning Birdcage Mews. Afterwards, head into the War Rooms at the Imperial War Museum for an afternoon of interesting Churchill history. Likewise, take a trip to the iconic Tower Bridge, which is one of London’s most famous bridges which also has a glass floor for optimal views from a unique angle! It was built in 1886 and crosses over the River Thames. The architecture is remarkable as well as the views you get when you stroll over it. An adult ticket is £9.00, so why not treat them?
Take a tour of the Thames
Go on a bus tour around London and finish the experience with a relaxing boat ride along the Thames River seeing the amazing attractions that line the bank from either side, such as the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey. Some of the best boat options even have bars on board, so you and your folks can sip on champers as you glide down the river!
Get lost in Hampton Court Palace
For an especially fun day out, Hampton Court Palace offers a little something for everyone. Although the magnificent gardens full of bright blossoms there may impress the parents slightly more than you, there is plenty more this place has to offer than just nature. From wondering at the most magnificent medieval hall in England to perusing the range of artwork on show, this is sure to be one of the highlights of your parents’ tour.
Indulge in some retail therapy
We have some of the best shopping districts on the planet, from the classic and curated Covent Garden, to the hip and trendy Shoreditch, and everything in between. Though your parents will no doubt be most excited about the likes of Oxford Street and Regent Street. If they are super keen to check out the high-end Regent Street, make them first divert a little into the Royal Academy of Arts nearby to hear the daily free concert during lunchtime at St-Martin’s-in-the-Fields church – one of the most famous churches in the city. Afterwards, keep the glamour going with a quick peruse of the glitzy luxury in the Burlington Arcade.
See the city from above on the London Eye
It’s hard to explain why, but for some reason, parents go absolutely crazy for the ginormous Ferris wheel on the Southbank. From its eye-watering heights, you can see London from a bird’s eye view which is great for adrenaline junkies (well, the parent version of adrenaline junkies, anyway). The schedule starts at 9.30am which is when the ticket office opens, and the first ride takes place at 10.00am. The closing times can vary at different points of the year, so keep an eye on their website to find out more.
Stroll along the South Bank
Speaking of the South Bank, the area is also home to The South Bank – the largest arts centre that is singly-run in the entire world. It’s a stone’s throw away from the Eye, so it is great to explore to help you feel a little more grounded! It also encompasses the Royal Festival Hall and Hayward Gallery. London’s South Bank first opened in 1951 for the Festival of Britain, and ever since, it has been a hub for creativity and celebrations. There are music, art, and dance performances throughout the year that takes place here. So there’s sure to be something fun for all the family to see.
See? A trip to London with your folks isn’t so bad…especially if you’re staying at London City Suites Montcalm.
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