The best family days out in London and beyond rated by kids and teens
Average K-Rating based
on 7 K-Rating reviews
Looking for a fun and educational day out in London with your kids? The Horniman Museum and Gardens is a perfect choice! With a wide range of exhibits and galleries, there’s something for every child to enjoy.
Animal lovers can head to the petting zoo to meet alpacas, goats, sheep, and smaller animals. The aquarium, located in the basement, is perfect for young kids who want to ‘find Nemo’ or learn about English pond life. It’s smaller and less crowded than the Sea Life London Aquarium, making it easier to navigate with little ones. Don’t miss the Butterfly House, where you can walk among free-flying butterflies in a tropical indoor garden.
For dinosaur enthusiasts, the temporary exhibition space features “Dinosaur rEvolution” until November. This family-friendly interactive exhibit explores the relationship between dinosaurs and birds. With five animatronic models and lifelike skeletons, kids will be fascinated to learn that T-Rex might have had feathers!
Music lovers will adore the music room, filled with instruments from different eras. Interactive tables allow you to hear what the most interesting ones sound like.
Older kids might enjoy the Centenary Gallery, showcasing weird and disturbing artifacts. For those interested in unusual animals, the Horniman boasts one of Europe’s largest taxidermy collections. In the Natural History Gallery, learn about evolution and see a variety of animals, including the famous overstuffed Walrus, once admired by Queen Victoria. (Note: The Natural History Gallery is closed for refurbishment until 2026).
On a nice day, bring a picnic to enjoy in the lovely gardens. The museum is buggy and wheelchair friendly, with a buggy park and lift access, making it perfect for visiting with young children and toddlers.
Don’t forget to check out the cafe and well-stocked gift shop before you leave. The Horniman Museum and Gardens offers a delightful day out for the whole family!
100 London Road
Forest Hill
London
SE23 3PQ
+44 (0)20 8699 1872
Nearest train station: Forest Hill
The Horniman had so much more to offer than I first expected. The aquarium was a lovely surprise, especially as I loved Finding Nemo growing up. At first, I thought i’d just see some freaky taxidermy but there was also an interactive music room showing stuff though time which was pretty cool. Plus there was a cute petting zoo and garden. I’d say this place is probably most enjoyed when having young kids with you.
You can find loads more information by Laura Porter at aboutlondonlaura.com
This is a hidden gem, when compared to other large museums in London, but it’s outside of central London so you’ll either need to take a bus or the overground to get there. It’s well-worth visiting. It’s a relatively compact museum that’s perfectly sized for kids to enjoy. There are fun curiosities, such as the giant stuffed walrus which is a must see. There are also a butterfly garden (which isn’t free) and an animal walk. There’s a great environmental education programme that hosts activities for young visitors and outside there are beautiful gardens to explore. It’s a fantastic museum. Recommend.
Great day out; plenty to do for all interests.