Kid-friendly parks abound in London, from Princess Diana’s Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens to the tranquil surrounds of Holland Park. These green-filled spaces are located near public transit, cafes, and other popular tourist attractions, making them a worthwhile detour whilst traveling throughout the country. And your little ones, with all their pent up energy, will thank you for it. Here are five family-friendly London parks, highlighted from our London Travel Guide for families with babies and toddlers.
While there is often a bit of a wait to get in, the Princess Diana Memorial Playground has a Peter Pan themed playground that will satisfy the kids. Nestled in Kensington Gardens and dedicated to the late Princess of Wales, this playground is complete with a huge sandpit, a pirate ship, and other fun and unique play equipment. And there is a café right across for parents needing coffee! This is one London park that you and your kids will adore. [Broad Walk, London W2 2UH, UK]
Regents Park is one of the royal parks of London. Inside, the Queen Mary’s Gardens features more than 12,000 roses of 400 varieties. This London park is home to the Open Air Theatre, London Zoo, and Primrose Hill. [Chester Rd, London NW1 4NR, UK]
Holland Park is a bit less touristy but still quintessentially English. There are two playgrounds—a toddler playground and an adventure playground for big kids—plus a rose garden for the parents and lots of green space. [Ilchester Pl, Kensington, London W8 6LU, UK]
Highgate Wood is an ancient wood located in North London with lovely trails through the forest. The gorgeous clearing in the middle is perfect for the kids to run around and enjoy a picnic. There is a café and an excellent playground there as well, making this London park a must-visit. [Muswell Hill Rd, London N10 3JN, UK]
Located in North London, surrounding the charming Hampstead Village, Hampstead Heath provides a real escape from the city. You can literally lose yourself in the woods there. This is the ideal location to let your toddler run around. There is also a play area. If you’re so lucky to be visiting London during a “heat wave,” this is the place to be. Check out the swimming ponds—the Ladies’ pond is by far the best, thanks to its large grassy area. While the water may be a bit cool for bébé and the entrance into the pond is a bit tricky, this London park is well worth the visit. If you choose to head over to one of the ponds, make sure you come accompanied so you can take turns jumping in and watching bébé. [Hampstead Heath, London, UK]
For curious parents who want to learn more about traveling with bébé in London, our London Destination Guide has recently been updated, containing helpful info for navigating this big, beautiful city with the whole family.
Have you visited any of these London parks before? Let us know in the comments. Happy traveling!
