The best family days out in London and beyond rated by kids and teens
Published: 16th July 2024
The Underground! Whether you’re a seasoned Londoner or a fresh-off-the-plane tourist, here’s your ultimate guide to conquering the Tube with teens, kids, toddlers, babies, people with disabilities and………luggage!
Oyster Cards: Your go-to for hassle-free travel. Get one at any Tube station for a refundable £7. Top up and go. Kids under 11 travel free with a paying adult.
Young Visitor Discount: If you don’t live in London and you’re visiting with children who don’t have an 11-15 Zip Oyster photocard, they can get discounted travel for up to 14 days with the Young Visitor discount. And when you add the Young Visitor discount to an Oyster card you’ll get 50% off adult-rate pay as you go fares and daily caps on bus, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, Elizabeth line and most National Rail services
Contactless Cards: Tap in and out with your debit or credit card. Same fare as an Oyster without the plastic clutter.
Travel Cards: One-day Travelcards for Zones 1-6 cost £14.40 for adults. Great for unlimited travel, especially if you’re planning to see the sights. Children aged 5-15 can get a discounted Off-Peak Zones 1-6 or 1-9 Day Travelcard, when accompanied by an adult buying a discounted Off-Peak Zones 1-6 or 1-9 Day Travelcard at a ticket machine, using a valid:
Avoid Rush Hour: Travel after 9:30 AM and before 4:00 PM, or after 7:00 PM on weekdays. Weekends are generally more relaxed.
Peak vs. Off-Peak: Peak hours are weekdays 6:30-9:30 AM and 4:00-7:00 PM. Off-peak fares are cheaper and kid-friendlier.
Mind the Gap: Literal gaps between the train and platform can be a tripping hazard. Hold on to little hands tightly!
TFL App: Download it for real-time updates, route planning and avoiding delays. We are also BIG, BIG fans of the Citymapper App.
Get off Early: Walking is part of the fun. For instance, get off at Embankment and stroll to Trafalgar Square.It’s a great way to see more of London plus you get your steps in!
Other Landmark Stations include:
13 years in the making the Elizabeth Line is fast, fabulous boasts stunning architecture and most importantly gets you across the city at breakneck speed. You can also get from Heathrow to central London in 35 minutes.
And if you’re looking to a great alternative to the Tube check out the Overground. It’s generally less crowded, more scenic and if you get the right seat you can charge your phone. Always a plus with teenagers in tow.
How to Travel on the London Underground with Kids, babies toddlers and teens – A KidRAted Guide
The Golden Rule is – if you have to travel with a buggy or lots of luggage, avoid rush hour – otherwise you’re in for a horrible experience for you, your baby and your fellow passengers.
When entering or exiting make sure you use the wide gates (far left or far right) or you could be in danger of getting stuck.
Remember, not all stations are step-free, so check the TfL website for accessible routes, use lifts where available, and never be shy to ask for help. Londoners can be grumpy but they’re also kind-hearted.
Situated in Covent Garden this museum is a must-visit if your kids are fascinated by the Tube. Packed to the gills with life size carriages and buses the Interactive exhibits and historic vehicles will keep everyone entertained. It’s also great for babies and toddlers.
London Transport Museum, Covent Garden
Accessible Stations: Not all stations are created equal. Use the Transport for London (TfL) website to find a list of step-free stations. Key ones include King’s Cross, Westminster, and Green Park. For those who love a good map, there’s an accessible Tube map that highlights all the step-free stations.
Lifts and Ramps: Plan your route to include stations with lifts. If you’re not sure, ask a staff member – they’re generally quite helpful. For example, at Green Park, there’s a snazzy new lift connecting all three lines (Jubilee, Piccadilly, and Victoria).
Mind the Gap: Literally. The gap between the train and platform can be tricky. Some stations like Stratford have platform humps for easier boarding. If you need assistance, give a shout to station staff. They have nifty ramps and are trained to help.
Check out Steph Nimmo’s Guide to London Transport with a Wheelchair.
Toby K-Rates the Lego Store, Leicester Square and gives it 10/10
Quiet Times: The Tube can be a sensory overload. Travel outside of peak hours (07:30-09:30 and 17:00-19:00) to avoid the crush. Mid-morning and mid-afternoon are often quieter and less stressful.
Visual Timetables and Social Stories: Prepare your child with a visual timetable of the journey. TfL’s Journey Planner can help map out your route step-by-step. Social stories about using the Tube can also be a great way to set expectations.
Safe Spaces: If it all gets too much, know your exits! Larger stations often have quieter corners or waiting rooms where you can take a breather. Liverpool Street and King’s Cross have areas where you can step away from the chaos.
Blue Badge Card: This isn’t just for parking! Flash a Blue Badge (or a sunflower lanyard) to let staff know you might need a bit more help. They’re trained to be more attentive when they see these.
Plan your journey with breaks factored in, especially if you’re traveling with toddlers or babies. Always pack a bottle of water as It can get. really hot and uncomfortable. Most journeys go without a hitch but delays are common.
Always have a backup plan. If a lift is out of order, know your alternative routes or nearest accessible station. The TfL website and staff are invaluable resources.
Have Fun: Yes, the Underground can be daunting, but it’s also an adventure. Make a game of spotting the unique tiling at each station, or count the number of escalators you conquer.
Hopefully after reading this, you’re ready to tackle the Tube with your kids! Remember, preparation is key, flexibility is your friend, and a sense of humor will get you far. Good luck!
