London is a brilliant city to discover at any age but for teens there really is so much going on, no matter what you’re interested in. From historical sights and incredible museums (including lots of lesser well known ones) to entertaining and educational tours, there are plenty of ways to enjoy London’s main attractions.
Elsewhere there is excellent theatre, fantastic shopping and lots of daredevil activities for those teenagers that like their sightseeing to be that little bit more active. There are great markets, fun classes, lots of Instagrammable destinations and plenty more! Here’s our pick of the best things to do in London for teens.
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The best of London for teens
London is jam-packed full of historic monuments and significant landmarks detailing London’s history as well as modern sights showcasing the best of London today. Here are some of our favourites for teens to discover.
The Globe Theatre
The original Globe Theatre was built in 1599 by Shakespeare’s playing company. It was destroyed by a fire in 1613 A second Globe Theatre was constructed in 1614 but was closed in 1642. Today’s Globe Theatre opened in 1997 and is a replica of the historic playhouse; a 360 degree auditorium with no roof over the central courtyard.
As well as staging works by Shakespeare, the theatre stages new writing, music concerts, film screenings and more. Guided tours of the theatre take place every week Thursday – Sunday.
Where: 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, SE1 9DT. Mansion House is the nearest tube station.
Need to know: The theatre is open to the elements to make sure to dress accordingly!
British Library
The British Library is a great way to spend a rainy day in London. Founded in 1753, the library is home to the King’s Library where some of the world’s most important and rare texts are stored, including a copy of the Magna Carta.
Where: 98 Euston Road NW1 2DB. Kings Cross is the closest tube station.
Need to know: The library often holds interesting exhibits and events too.
Sky Garden
The Sky Garden is London’s highest public garden with terraces filled with Mediterranean and South African plants. The garden also offers 360-degree views over the city – even better, it’s completely free! You just need to book tickets in advance.
Where: 1 Sky Garden Walk, EC3M 8AF. The closest tube stations are Bank and Monument.
Need to know: Children under 16 are not able to enter Sky Garden after 6pm on weekdays and 9pm on weekends.
Theatre
London is home to some incredible theatre. The capital city is home to more theatres than any other city in the world, which means you can catch a show any day of the week. Some of the most popular shows in the West End include Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Everyone’s talking about Jamie, the Lion King, Wicked and Hamilton.
Tickets can be bought online or at the venue directly. The TKTS London booth in Leicester Square is a good place to go for same day discount tickets and good deals.
Trafalgar Square
Designed in 1830 to commemorate the British victory against Spanish and French fleets in the Battle of Trafalgar, today Trafalgar Square is one of London’s top attractions. As well as being home to the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery, the square is often where rallies and demonstrations are held.
Where: Trafalgar Sq, WC2N 5DN. Charing Cross is the closest underground station.
Need to know: If you are in London at Christmas then you’ll see the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square, an annual gift from the people of Norway to say thank you for Britain’s support during WWII.
Greenwich
Take a boat down the River Thames to Greenwich for a day exploring this neighbourhood, home to the Cutty Sark ( once the fastest tea clipper in the world), the National Maritime Museum and the Old Royal Naval College. It’s also home to Meridian Line, which provides the perfect photo opportunity!
Abbey road
Take a trip to Abbey Road, one of the most famous streets in London, and recreate the iconic album cover from The Beatles. The crossing is actually located at the southernmost point of Abbey Road, at the junction with Grove End Road in St. John’s Wood.
Where: St John’s Wood underground station is the closest tube stop.
Need to know: The postcode for the Abbey Road recording studios is NW8 9AY but if you’re having trouble finding the road, just look for the crowds of people!
Tower of London
The Tower of London is one of the city’s most famous sights. Filled with stories of torture, treason, and execution – not to mention the odd ghost – the tower is a must-visit for any teen who enjoys the more gruesome parts of history. The Yeoman Warder Tours are a great way to explore the tower – Yeomans have guarded the tower for over 500 years!
Where: Tower of London, EC3N 4AB. Tower Hill is the closest tube stop or have a look at Citymapper (one of the best apps for London) for more travel options.
Need to know: Don’t forget, this is where the Crown Jewels are also held!
London Eye
The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel on the banks of the River Thames and the largest cantilevered observation wheel in Europe. It’s a hugely popular attraction and a spin in one of the 32 pods that amble gently around is a great way to see the London skyline.
Where: Westminster Bridge Road, SE1 7PB. Waterloo, Embankment, Charing Cross and Westminster tube stations are all nearby.
Need to know: Pre-book online and save up to 20%
Best museums in London with Teens
There are more than 170 museums in London and many of them are free. In addition to the most famous – we’re talking about you the Natural History Museum – there are some lesser known museums that are perfect for teens. Here are some of our favourites:
Cartoon Museum
Discover the best of British cartoon art at the Cartoon Museum in Fitzrovia. Th museum houses over 6,000 original cartoon and comic artwork and a library of over 8,000 books and comics. The permanent collection includes wartime cartoons, modern satirists including Ralph Steadman and original Rupert Bear artwork from 1921. Exhibitions and events are held throughout the year.
Where: 63 Wells Street, Fitzrovia, W1A 3AE. The closest tube is Goodge Street.
Need to know: The museum is closed on Mondays. Entry is £8.50 per adult. Under 18s are free but teens require proof of age ID.
Old Operating Theatre
The Old Operating Theatre Museum is Britain’s oldest surviving purpose-built operating theatre. Located in the attic of the early eighteenth-century church of the old St Thomas’ Hospital, the theatre has been restored and furnished with original furniture and equipment. Events take place that details the types of surgical procedures that would have taken place in this operating theatre almost 200 years ago – without anaesthesia!
Where: The Museum is located on St Thomas Street between Borough Market and the Shard. London Bridge is the closest tube station.
Need to know: Access is via a 52-step spiral staircase. The museum is open Thursday-Sunday from 10.30am until 5pm, with last admission at 4.15pm. Adults £7.50; children 6 – 16 £4.50; children under 6 free.
London Film Museum – Harry Potter Photographic Exhibition
In Covent Garden the London Film Museum has a Harry Potter exhibition showcasing hundreds of images from the world of Harry Potter that have never been seen together before. Discover areas inspired by the Ministry of Magic and Platform 9 3/4. There’s also the chance to strike your best wizarding pose in front of a series of green screens.
Where: 45 Wellington St, WC2E 7BN. Leicester Square or Covent Garden tube stations are the most convenient.
Need to know: Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Over 16s £20; children aged 5 – 15 years £14.
HMS Belfast
Explore all nine decks of the incredible HMS Belfast and learn all about the inner workings of the ship that was used during both the Korean War and World War II.
Where: The Queen’s Walk, SE1 2JH. London Bridge is the nearest tube station.
Need to know: HMS Belfast is open Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm, last entry 4pm. From 1 April 2022, the museum will be open daily. Adults £25; children aged 5 – 15 £11.35.
RAF Museum
Anyone with an interest in the military should head to North London and the Royal Air Force Museum. This excellent museum is home to 80 aircraft on display as well as a flight simulator, a multi-media account of the Battle of Britain and the chance to sit in the cockpit of a Spitfire – plus more!
Where: Grahame Park Way, NW9 5LL. The museum is a short bus ride from Colindale underground station.
Need to know: The museum is a little out of town but well worth a visit. Regular events take place during school holidays.
Churchill War Rooms
Hidden beneath Westminster were the Cabinet War Rooms that formed the nucleus of Winston Churchill’s wartime strategies. These rooms are where Britain coordinated and organised its fight against the Nazis during WWII. The rooms have been preserved as they were in 1945 and offer a fascinating insight into this period in history. The war rooms are today part of the Imperial War Museum.
Nearby is the St Ermin’s Hotel, which became a central point for the British Intelligence Services during the Second World War. You can enjoy afternoon tea there while you soak up the history.
Where: Clive Steps, King Charles Street, SW1S 2AQ. St James’s Park and Westminsters are the closest underground stations.
Need to know: Check the website for ticket prices. The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday 9:30am to 6pm, last entry at 5pm.
British Museum
The British Museum is the world’s oldest national public museum. It was founded in 1753 and its doors first opened in 1759 (that’s 17 years before the American colonies declared their independence from British rule!).
The museum is an Aladdin’s Cave of artefacts from around the world. Among its treasures, you’ve got bits of the Greek Acropolis, the Rosetta Stone, a burial helmet from Sutton Hoo and an Easter Island statute.
In addition to the permanent exhibitions there are regular temporary exhibitions. Plus, they host sleepovers at the museum too!
Where: Great Russell Street, WC1B 3DG. The museum is located between Holborn, Tottenham Court Road, Russell Square and Goodge Street tube stations.
Need to know: There is free entry to the museum; exhibitions are charged for.
Tate Modern
The permanent collection at the Tate Modern showcases over a hundreds years of art from the birth of modernism in the early 1900s to works being created today. There are regular temporary exhibitions too; some of the most popular in recent years have included Andy Warhol and Olafur Eliasson. It’s worth visiting the museum to see the Turbine Hall – and whatever installation is currently in place – alone.
Where: Bankside, SE1 9TG. London Bridge, Southwark and Waterloo underground stations are all close by.
Need to know: The museum is open daily from 10am – 6pm. You can catch the Tate Boat, which runs from the Tate Modern to Tate Britain.
V&A
Sometimes overlooked by families visiting London owing to its more traditionally ‘family-friendly’ neighbours the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum, the V&A is well worth a visit. The museum is one of the world’s leading museums of art and design.
Some of the more weird and wonderful pieces in the permanent collection include ‘Tiptoe’s Tiger’, a barrel organ that is shaped in the form of a Western oppressor being attacked by an Eastern tiger. Consider that you’ll also see a 3D-printed gun from 2013 on display and you get an idea as to how varied the collection is.
The V&A also host excellent temporary exhibitions; previous successes have included an exhibition dedicated to Frida Kahlo and an Alice in Wonderland exhibit.
Where: Cromwell Road, SW7 2RL. South Kensington and Gloucester Road are the nearest tube stations.
Need to know: The museum is free to visit; exhibitions are charged for.
Madame Tussauds
Unbelievably Madame Tussaud’s first opened in 1835 (yes, really!) and the museum has been leaving visitors star struck ever since. Hundreds of lifelike models from the worlds of music, fashion, politics, history, movies, sports, royalty and fiction now fill the museum’s halls including personalities such as Jessica Ennis-Hill, Madonna and her Royal Majesty the Queen
Where: Marylebone Road, NW15LR. Baker Street is the closest underground station.
Need to know: Book online and save up to 10% off your tickets.
Science Museum
The Science Museum is easily one of London’s best museum. Located next door to the Natural History Museum, it’s seven floors of out-of-this-world exhibits. It’s home to the oldest display of clocks and watches in the world; the Apollo 10 command module and flight simulator live here; and there’s an IMAX cinema showing scientific films in 3D.
For teens, there’s also CoderDojo, a free coding session for young people interested in programming. Suitable for ages 7 to 17, the sessions allow you to build a website, create an app or a game and try out the in-house robots. Check the website for further dates.
Where: Exhibition Road, South Kensington, SW7 2DD. The nearest tube station is South Kensington followed by Gloucester Road.
Need to know: No experience necessary, beginners and coding experts alike are welcome. The event is free but numbers are limited so you should register in advance.
Fashion and Textile Museum
Teens with a love of fashion will enjoy the Fashion and Textile Museum in Bermondsey. Founded by colourful fashion designer Zandra Rhodes, this pink and orange museum is the only museum in the UK dedicated to showcasing contemporary fashion and textile design. As well as the exhibitions, the museum holds talks, workshops and short courses.
Where: 83 Bermondsey Street, SE1 3XF. London Bridge is the nearest underground station.
Need to know: The museum is open Tuesdays – Saturdays, 11.00 – 18.00 with last entry 45 minutes before closing.
The Barbican
The Barbican Centre is a performing arts centre, the largest of its kind in Europe. The centre hosts everything from classical concerts and contemporary dance to talks and workshops, and cinema screenings. For young adults there is the Young Barbican programme, which allows discounted access to art and entertainment as well as access to programmes and workshops.
Where: Silk Street, EC2Y 8DS. The closest tube stations are Barbican, Moorgate and St Pauls.
Need to know: The Young Barbican programme is aimed at 14 – 25 year olds.
Design Museum
Get the kids asking “what’s that?!” with a trip to the Design Museum. Housed within the old Commonwealth Institute, the Design Museum covers product, industrial, graphic, fashion and architectural design.
The top floor is where you’ll find the permanent collection, which examines the development of modern design – look out for the products that will make you very old such as a Walkman and VCR. There are regular temporary exhibitions too.
Where: 224-238 Kensington High Street, W8 6AG. The closest tube is Earl’s Court.
Need to know: The Design Museum is free to visit but the temporary exhibits are chargeable.
Sherlock Holmes Museum
Located on Baker Street, one of the most famous streets in London, the Sherlock Holmes Museum is housed in the home of the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes (author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle made this address the detective’s residence from 1881 to 1904). Today you can wander around the rooms, which are filled with authentic Victorian furniture and knick knacks belonging to the iconic detective – and his adversaries!
Where: 221b Baker St, Marylebone, NW1 6XE. Baker Street is the nearest tube station.
Need to know: Open Tuesday – Sunday 10 am – 5pm. There is always a queue outside the museum so be prepared to wait!
Best adrenaline activities in London for Teens
London delivers when it comes to daredevil activities – these are some of the best.
Climb the O2 Arena, Greenwich
The O2 Arena in London’s Greenwich Pensinula in southeast London is a multi-purpose arena where concerts, sporting events and theatre is held. For something a little different, however, you can take a walk across the roof of the arena. Various walks are offered including a daytime climb, a sunset climb or a twilight climb, and every one allows visitors to walk across the dome and see some of the best views of London while you do it!
Where: Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX. North Greenwich station is the closets underground station.
Need to know: Pre-booking is essential. Check the website for availability and prices.
London Abseil with Wire & Sky
Another place to go for an adrenaline rush and great views is the London Abseil with Wire & Sky at the ArcelorMittal Orbit. This is the UK’s highest freefall abseil from the UK’s tallest sculpture. The abseil takes place from the upper viewing platform at the ArcelorMittal Orbit where trained professional instructors are on hand to take you from the top right to the firm land again.
Where: The nearest tube station is Stratford. From there its a 15 minute walk through the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park to the base of the ArcelorMittal Orbit.
Need to know: Abseiling at the ArcelorMittal Orbit is for those aged 14 and over. Young people aged 14 – 17 will need to complete a Parental Consent Form before booking their abseil.
ArcelorMittal Orbit
Not only is the ArcelorMittal Orbit the UK’s tallest sculpture (it’s 114.5-metres high), it’s also home to the world’s longest tunnel slide. Located in the heart of the Queen Elizabeth Park in east London, this epic slide is made up of 12 twists and turns including the ‘bettfeder’, a tight corkscrew that translates as the ‘bedspring’.
Where: The ArcelorMittal Orbit Is located in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford. The closest underground station is Stratford Station. From here it’s a 10-minute walk to the slide.
Need to know: Pre-booking is recommended. There is a 1.3m minimum height requirement to ride the slide.
The Dare Skywalk, Tottenham
Another great place for adrenaline junkies is the Dare Skywalk along the roof of Tottenham Hotspur’s new stadium. The 90-minute Dare Skywalk takes visitors to the top of the largest club stadium in London. The highlight is the glass walkway positioned 46.8 metres above the pitch, just above the penalty spot.
Where: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium 748 High Road Tottenham London N17 0AP
Need to know: Pre-booking is advise, check the website for details.
Rock climbing at the Castle
Located in North London is The Castle, the UK’s largest climbing Centre. Housed within a Victorian former pumping station – that really does look like a castle! – the centre has 450 routes and 90 roped lines. They also offer bouldering options.
The Castle runs regular weekend and school holidays taster days and multi-activity day camps suitable for novice climbers.
Where: The Castle Climbing Centre, Green Lanes, Stoke Newington, London N4 2HA
Need to know: You must register before you climb – check the website for details. If you are visiting off peak (8am – 5pm Mon – Fri) then you do not need to book in advance. All climbers need to complete an Acknowledgement of Risk form.
Go Ape
With three locations across London, Go Ape is a fun day out for active teens. The biggest of the three location is Alexandra Palace, which combines thrills and great views of London. Here you’ll find the Treetop Adventure, Treetop Adventure Plus and Treetop Challenge – the later includes the Plummet, a 12m free fall toward the forest floor. The other two locations are at Battersea Park and at Cockfosters.
Where: There are three locations in London at Cockfosters, Battersea Park and Alexandra Palace
Need to know: Pre-booking is essential. Treetop Adventure starts from £19, Treetop Adventure Plus starts from £23 and Treetop Challenge starts from £25.
Thames Rockets
Witness some of London’s best sights while you zip along the Thames River in a speedboat. Thames Rockets offers a number of tours along the river in their bright red RIB boats, these include the Ultimate London Adventure, a 50 minute ride at 30 knots that takes in sights from Big Ben to Tower Bridge and the 80-minute Thames Barrier Explorers Voyage that runs from the London Eye to the Thames Barrier.
Where: Meeting points depend on which experience you book, see the website for details.
Need to know: The only Thames Rockets tour with age restrictions is the Thames Lates, which has a minimum age of 18 due to the serving of alcohol on-board.
Go Karting
There are several go karting operators in London but the one that we’ve used and recommend is Team Sport. Team Sport have five indoor karting tracks in London including London Docklands, North London, West London, Mitcham, South London and Watford. All have fun tracks for you to zoom along as you race against other competitors. Full briefings and equipment is provided – all you have to do is put the pedal down and go!
Where: Five different locations across London.
Need to know: Minimum age for an adult kart is 12 years old. Pre-booking is essential.
Best tours in London for Teens
From Harry Potter and James Bond to a silent disco walking tour or discovering the city on two wheels, there are lots of fun tours available for teens wanting a unique way to see the city!
Harry Potter Tour
Potterheads will quickly fall under the spell of this Harry Potter Walking tour of London. Led by ToursByLocals, a company that connects visitors with experienced local guides, the tour covers the major Harry Potter filming locations in London. As well as discover spots used for filming (including Great Scotland Yard and St Paul’s Cathedral), the tour guide shares oodles of fun Harry Potter facts.
Where: Across London
Need to know: The tour last 3hrs 30 minutes and involves quite a lot of walking
James Bond Tour
For teens who prefer a touch of espionage with their tours then consider the James Bond Walking Tour of London. Also run by ToursByLocals, this tour takes in all the filming sites used for various James Bond films in London. It also includes some very fun Bond facts including who is the oldest Bond girl. Sites include Charing Cross Station, Horse Guards Parade and the oldest restaurant in London.
For a Bond themed weekend, book the Budding Bonds package at St Ermin’s Hotel in addition to this James Bond Tour.
Where: Locations across Central London
Need to know: The tour lasts 3 hours and involves quite a lot of walking
Behind the Scenes Theatre Tours
For teens with an interest in theatre there are a number of excellent backstage theatre tours. One of the most exciting is a behind the scenes tour of the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, the oldest theatre in the West End. Located in the heart of Covent Garden, the theatre has survived bankruptcy, fire, and even murder.
Where: Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Catherine St, London WC2B 5JF
Need to know: There are 20 spaces available per tour; each tour lasts approximately 1 hour. Check the website for timings. Tickets cost £18.50.
Mudlarking tour of the Thames
Twice a day the tidal waters in the River Thames rise and fall bringing with them centuries of treasure, little bits of history in the shape of pieces of roof tiles, bits of clay pipes and remnants of Delftware crockery. If you’re really lucky, you might even find a Victorian table fork.
‘Mudlarking’ the art of scavenging through river mud for lost items of historical significance or value, has become increasingly popular along the banks of the Thames. The best way to take part is with a guide, not least because the regularly changing tidal waters. A guide will also help identify what you find.
Where: On the banks of the River Thames
Need to know: Check the website for dates and times.
Harry Potter Warner Brothers Studio Tour
Harry Potter-loving teens should wizard themselves to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour to experience the Making of Harry Potter. Step onto iconic sets such as the Great Hall, see props from the films, take a close-up look at costumes and discover how the special and visual effects teams made Harry and his wizarding pals fly.
Where: The Water Bros. Studio Tour is located 20 miles north-west of London. There is a shuttle bus from Watford Junction (there are direct trains from London Euston to Watford Junction that takes 20 minutes).
Need to know: Make sure to book well in advance, tickets do sell out.
London’s Street Art
London is home to some great street art and one of the best way to see it is on a Street Art Walking Tour. The tour takes place in the vibrant East End and showcases the city’s amazing street art scene – led by street artists and local experts. Discover local and world renowned artists and hear the stories and inspiration behind an array of artworks. The tour is also available with a Street Art Workshop afterwards.
Where: London’s East End
Need to know: The tour lasts 1.5 – 2 hours and takes place seven days a week at 11am and 2pm. £18 / adult, £12 / children aged 6-15yrs.
Fat Tires Bike Tour of London
Discover London on two wheels with a Fat Tire Bike Tour. The company runs cycling tours of a number of cities (we tried one of their Paris tours previously) all led by a qualified and knowledgeable guide. In London, Fat Tire Tours offer three different tours; the Royal London Bike Tour, the River Thames Bike Tour and the River Thames Evening Bike Tour with beer tasting.
Where: Locations across London
Need to know: Tours start from £26 for teens, £28 for adults. The tours are also suitable for young children (although not the beer tasting one!).
Silent Disco Walking Tours
Get your dancing feet ready for a tour with a difference. Silent Disco Walking Tours run a handful of themed walking tours across London including the West End Musical Tour and the Drag Queen Disco Diva tour. During the West End Musical Tour, participants wear headphones and then sing and dance along to the greatest show tunes as you tour the streets of London and discover new musicals. The Drag Queen Disco Diva Tour takes in London’s iconic Soho and China Town districts as you listen to Disco Diva tunes.
Where: The tours take place in different locations across
Need to know: Tours start from £19 for kids and teens and £24 for adults. Check the website for details.
Buckingham Palace Tour
Peek inside where Her Maj lives when you’re in town on a self guided tour of Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the Queen. Although not all the palace is open to visitors you can explore the regal State Rooms for 10 weeks each summer between July 22 and October 22. Rooms open to the public during this time include the White Drawing Room, the Throne Room, the Ballroom and the Music Room. There’s also a great gift shop for taking a piece of royalty home.
Where: London SW1A 1AA. Victoria is the closest rail station. Green Park and Hyde Park Corner are the nearest underground stations.
Need to know: Pre-booking is essential. Teens and children £16.50, adults £30.
Fun classes for teens in London
Learn to create the perfect Victoria Sponge, rolls a restaurant-worthy sushi roll or fly through the air at Circus school, on one of these great-for-teens classes.
Sushi-making class
Learn to make maki rolls with a sushi master at Inamo in Central London. The hour-long class is very hands-on and kids and teens (up to the age of 16) will come away with 10 pieces of freshly rolled sushi ready to eat. Classes are held at Inamo (a great family-friendly restaurant in London).
Where: Inamo Restaurant,134 – 136 Wardour Street, W1F 8ZP. Near Oxford Circus.
Need to know: Pre-booking is essential
Gorilla Circus Flying Trapeze School
Swing through the air with the greatest of ease after a lesson at Gorilla Circus Flying Trapeze School in Regent’s Park. The two-hour classes start with a warm up and then move on to practice a simple trick on the low bar. By the end of the class you’ll be attempting the trick on the Flying Trapeze and finally getting caught by an instructor on a separate swinging bar.
Gorilla Circus is a seasonal company and usually open in the Spring for lessons. Check the website for details.
Where: The school is located north-west corner of Regent’s Park, north of Outer Circle road and west of Avenue road
Need to know: The minimum age requirement is 8 years old.
The Big London Bake
Fans of the Great British Bake Off will love taking part in the Big London Bake. Each bake off includes ingredients, a top baker to give advice, a theme and one winner! You have 90 minutes to whisk, roll and bake your way to glory. Locations and dates change so do check the website but the baking competition remains the same.
Where: The next Big London Bake is taking place in Under the Bridge, Lee Street, London, E84ED
Need to know: Anyone under the age of 18 must bake alongside a responsible adult.
Best spooky things to do in London for Teens
If your teen likes things that go bump in the night then London’s a great place to explore. There are lots of spooky sights and plenty of gruesome stories!
London Dungeon
If you like your sights spooky then The London Dungeon is a good option. This walk-through experience recreates scenes from some London’s scary and sinister history. Learn about the Great Fire of 1666, discover Henry VIII’s victims as you ride through Traitors’ Gate and the see (and smell!) what it was like to live in London during the plague.
Where: The Queen’s Walk, London SE1 7PB. The London Dungeon is located near the London Eye. The closest underground station is Waterloo.
Need to know: The minimum age recommended for The London Dungeon is 12 years and older but be aware that the dungeon is very dark and can be spooky! Pre-booking is essential.
Jack the Ripper Tour
For those who like their tours super spooky book a place on the Jack the Ripper Tour that explores the mean streets of the Victorian East End and London’s most notorious murderer. Not for the faint of heart!
Where: The tour meets at Aldgate East Underground Station but double check when booking.
Need to know: The tour is not recommended for children under the age of 14 as the tour contains a lot of adult content. The tour takes two hours and involves a lot of walking. Do book as far in advance as possible as the tour is very popular and often sells out.
Ghost Bus Tour
For a spooktacular tour with a hint of comedy take a look at the Ghost Bus Tours. The tour takes place on board a 1960s Routemaster bus and takes in all the top attractions of London including London. Bridge, Downing Street, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London learning about London’s haunted history along the way. This comedy-horror tour on wheels last 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Where: The tour departs from Northumberland Avenue daily, opposite the Sherlock Holmes Pub. The nearest underground station is Embankment and Charing Cross train station.
Need to know: Tours take place daily, pre-booking is advised. Children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
Clink Prison Museum
The Clink Prison was one of the most notorious medieval prisons in London. Located in Southwark on the south bank of the Thames, it operated from the 12th century up until 1780. This makes it the longest operational prison in history. It was a place of extreme punishments where prisoners were placed in fetters and irons or forced to stand in water until their feet were rotten.
Today the Clink Prison Museum explores the burial past of the prison through audio stories, themed rooms and replica artefacts including torture tools. The museum also runs guided tours.
Where: The Clink Prison Museum is located on London’s South Bank. The closets underground station is London Bridge, the closets train station is London Bridge Rail Station.
Need to know: The museum is not wheelchair accessible. You are recommended 1hr 15 minutes for your visit. The recommended age is 7+ years.
The London Bridge Experience
Travel back in time to London’s gruesome past when nefarious characters such as The Head Snatcher and Jack the Ripper roamed the city streets at the London Bridge Experience. Set within the historical vaults of London Bridge this immersive show explores 2000 years of London’s gruesome history.
You can combine your experience with a journey into the London Tombs, an award-winning immersive scare maze that’s home to characters including zombies, clowns and doctors who are hiding ready to make you scream and jump with fright.
Where: The London Bridge Experience, 2-4 Tooley Street, London SE1 2SY
Need to know: There is no age restriction in the London Bridge Experience, however, children up to the age of 15 must be accompanied by a supervising adult. For visitors under 11 there is a less spooky London Tombs visit.
Highgate Cemetery
Highgate Cemetery is one of the most famous cemeteries in London, popular with both the dead and the living. During Victorian times people would pack a picnic and spend the day among the tombstones. The cemetery is the final resting place for over 170,000 people and many of them are famous names including Karl Marx and even Jeremy Beadle! Rumour has it that the sound of galloping hooves can be heard along the street outside the cemetery at night.
Discover more of Haunted Highgate with the Secret Stories app from Ordnance Survey.
Where: Swain’s Ln, London N6 6PJ
Need to know: The cemetery is open everyday between 10-4pm. Both self-guided visits and West Cemetery tours are available. Booking online in advance is advised.
The best sporting activities in London for Teens
From watching cricket to playing indoor cricket plus crazy golf, ice skating, skateboarding and more (including stadium tours for footie fans), here’s our pick of the best sporting activities for teens in London.
Skating and bowling at QUEENS London
You can easily spend a whole day at QUEENS in Bayswater. This ice rink and bowling alley is located on Queensway in the heart of London.
There are 12 bowling lanes as well as 5 VIP bowling lanes. The ice rink is open year-round and lessons are available – you must pre-looking your skating session and each session lasts 1 hour. Food and drink are available.
Where: 17 Queensway, London, W2 4QP. Queensway Tube is the closest underground station.
Need to know: QUEENS is an over 18s zone after 7pm every evening.
London’s Best Trampoline Parks
There are a number of trampoline parks in London perfect for energetic teens. Jump London, in east London, offers 12 different Jump Zones in their 100,000 square foot activity centre. They also happens o have a go karting track, Capital Karts, on site too.
Oxygen has trampoline parks in Acton, at the O2 in Greenwich and in Croydon. They offer giant airbags, foam pits, dodgeball courts, slam-dunk basketball, performance trampolines and more.
Flip Out has locations in Brent Cross (North London), Croydon (South London), Wandsworth and in East London (E6).
Puttshack
For a round of nine hole mini golf with a difference head to Puttshack. There are two locations in London in Bank and White City where you can play tech-infused mini golf across themed courses. Each game lasts approximately 30 minutes.
Where: There is a Puttshack in Bank, Central London, and in White City in West London.
Need to know: After 7pm Puttshack is an over 18s venue only.
Go Ice Skating
Christmas in London is a great time to hit the ice rinks but you can get your skates on throughout the year at a number of different venues.
In North London you’ll find the Alexandra Palace Ice Rink where the indoor skating arena is open year-round. In Queensway there’s QUEENS, home to an ice rink and bowling lanes. The Olympic-sized ice rink in Streatham is part of the Better leisure centre group so you’ll need to download their app and pre-book a skate session.
Gravity Active Entertainment
For lots of different activities under one roof head to Gravity in Wandsworth, South London. This colossal space offers eight different immersive experiences to enjoy including GT E-Karting (all-electric go karts), a 14 lane augmented reality bowling alley, 10-hole urban street golf, AR digital darts, immersive Electric Gamebox (a 60-minute hyper-immersive digital adventure), an E-sports Gaming Area and a Unbox arcade.
Where: Xscape, Castleford WF10 4TA . Wandsworth Town is the closest train station.
Need to know: Children aged thirteen and over do not need to be accompanied in the venue by someone over 16. Still, they must have a valid safety agreement signed by a parent or guardian to participate in the activity.
Hampstead Heath Ponds
Hampstead Heath in North London is home to three swimming ponds; the Mixed Bathing Pond, the Men’s Bathing Pond and the Kenwood Ladies’ Bathing Pond. Swimmers have been dipping and splashing in these ponds for decades and, on a hot day, there’s really no better place to be.
Where: Hampstead Heath, North London
Need to know: Pre-booking is advised. Under 15s must be accompanied by an adult.
All kids (and young teens) will be asked complete a Swim Test to show competency in the water when returning to the Bathing Ponds or swimming at the facility for the first time. The ponds are deep so you do need to be a competent swimmer. There is a nominal fee to access the ponds.
Junkyard golf
Take part in a round of crazy mini-golf on one of four courses created from, well, junk. Choose from Pablo, Bozo, Dirk or Gary (those are the names of the courses FYI) and get ready for some psychedelic golfing fun.
Where: 88 Worship Street, Hackney, EC2A 2BE. Moorgate is the closest underground station.
Need to know: Under 18s are permitted on Sunday to Wednesday before 6pm and must have an over 18 with them.
TOCA Social at the 02
Football keen teens will enjoy time at TOCA Social, an interactive football experience. Book a private box for 60 or 90 minutes, choose to play on the level that works for you (beginner, intermediate or advanced) and get ready to play.
Each box accommodates 12 players. As well as the 17 immersive pitches, there are two selfie booths and a dessert room. There’s also lots of good food on offer.
Where: TOCA Social is located in The O2, near Hollywood Bowl. The closest underground station is North Greenwich.
Need to know: TOCA Social is open to under 18s up until 16:00 every day, after that it is a strictly 18+ venue
Tour Lord’s Cricket Ground
Cricketing fans should head to Lord’s Cricket Ground for a tour of the Grade II* listed Victorian Pavilion. Lord’s is home to a fascinating history as well as an unrivalled collection of cricket-related art and memorabilia.
Where: St John’s Wood Rd, London NW8 8QN. St John’s Wood is the closest tube station.
Need to know: Tour days and times vary check the website for details.
Indoor Cricket at Sixes
Sixes is a UV indoor immersive cricket experience that allows wannabe Sachin Tendulkar’s the chance to enter the batting cage and swing for six. The specially designed nets sit under UV lights and include state of the art technology. Batting nets are hired by the hour and are suitable for all abilities
Where: There are two Sixes locations in London, one in Fitzrovia (W1W) and one in Fulham (SW6).
Need to know: Bookings including children under the age of 18 must be before 8pm at all Clubhouses.
Lee Valley Velo Park
For fun on two wheels head to the Lee Valley VeloPark where teens can tackle the track in the iconic velodrome, race on the road circuit, attempt the mountain bike trails or jump and bump on the BMX track. Coaching sessions are available and equipment is available to hire. Check the website for details.
Where: Lee Valley VeloPark, Abercrombie Road, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London E20 3AB. Stratford station is the closest station.
Need to know: Some sessions must be booked well in advance. For the Velodrome Experience, for example, sessions are released one month in advance. Check the website for details.
Laser Tag and Paintball at Bunker 51
If your teen is looking for something to do on a rainy day in London take a look at Bunker 51, a Cold War themed nuclear bunker where you can play airsoft, laser tag and paintball. Located in North Greenwich, Bunker 51 has two immersive indoor game zones and is the only indoor paintball centre in London.
Where: 3 Herringham Road, London, SE7 8NJ. Charlton train station is the closest station.
Need to know: Pre-booking is essential.
Sports Stadium Tours
There are some fantastic sports stadium tours in London, perfect for sports-mad teens. In Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in East London you can take part in the London Stadium tour and learn about the Olympic experience as well as how the stadium has been transformed into a football stadium.
Go behind the scenes of the UK’s most famous tennis competition – and venue – with a trip to the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum where you can enjoy a 90-minute tour of the grounds.
Rugby fans should make a beeline for Twickenham where stadium tour gives you access to places including the Rugby Player’s tunnel and the England changing room.
Football Stadium Tours
For football fans there are a number of stadium tour options. Tottenham Hotspur’s new stadium offers tours seven days a week. There are a range of tours to choose from at the Arsenal Emirates Stadium, including some that allow you to meet one of Arsenal’s former players.
Chelsea FC fans can head to the Chelsea grounds for an award-winning tour of the grounds led by knowledgeable and passionate guides. Fulham FC also offers tours of its stadium. If you want to go big then head to Wembley Stadium the UK’s largest sports and music venue, for the 90-minute Wembley Stadium tour.
Unusual London attractions for Teens
If you’re looking for something a little quirky to see and do in London then here’s our top pick from neon lights and a graffiti tunnel to a life sized edition of Monopoly.
God’s Own Junkyard
God’s Own Junkyard is a neon wonderland, a packed warehouse stuffed to the rafters with neon lights and vintage signs. Located in Walthamstow, the original owner used to create props for film directors including Stanley Kubrick and Christopher Nolan. Today God’s Own Junkyard is open to visitors who simply want to look around and the Technicolor signs or for those who want to buy one to take home.
Where: Unit 12, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall Street, Walthamstow, E17 9HQ
Need to know: The warehouse sometimes closes for private events so make sure to check the website for opening times before visiting. There is a cafe on site called the Rolling Scones Cafe.
GoBoat London
Enjoy a self-drive boating experience in London in an electric boat. GoBoat have three different locations around town and you can hire a boat for 1, 2 or 3 hours. The best way to enjoy it is with a picnic!
Where: There are GoBoat locations in Paddington, Canary Wharf and Kingston.
Need to know: The boats fit up to 8 people including children (dogs are also welcome). No boating experience is necessary, as you’ll be taught everything you need to know. Route maps are provided too. Book online for the best rates.
London’s Graffiti Tunnel
Hidden under the crowded platforms of London’s Waterloo Station is a kaleidoscopic world of brilliant street art. This permanent art space is hidden in the Leake Street arches and is filled with colour and design. Apparently the area was first used by the street artists Banksy way back in 2008 (he wanted to transform “a dark forgotten filth pit” into “an oasis of beautiful art”. The Leake Street arches are a great free activity to do in London too!
Where: Leake Street Arches incorporates Leake Street (the graffiti tunnel) and a new pedestrianised walkway connecting Leake Street to Westminster Bridge roundabout. The closest tube station is Waterloo or Lambeth North.
Need to know: Make sure to check out the ‘tunnel rules’ on the website before visiting – especially if you plan to unleash your inner artist!
Monopoly Lifesized
Challenge your friends to a game of Monopoly on an immersive life-size board. In this game, however, you’ll have to do more than simply collect $200 when you pass Go – players will need to take part in physical and mental challenges are they move around the board. Be prepared to solve murder mysteries or build a London landmark as you try and win.
Where: 213-215 Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7PS. Closest tube is Goodge Street.
Need to know: There are four exciting editions of Monopoly Lifesized to choose from when booking: Luxury, City, Classic and Junior.
The Selfie Factory
If you’re teen is keen to get more snaps for the gram or some content for Tik Tok then head to the Selfie Factory, a pop-up located in the O2 Arena. The ‘factory’ is home to a number of brightly-coloured sets including a fake bedroom and a fake diner (with, you guessed it, fake ice cream sundaes). There’s also a ball pit with hundreds of neon pink balls.
Also on site is Tikky Town, a “funhouse experience” where you can create videos. Interactive sets include a pink Lamborghini, a prison room and a balloon fan room.
Where: The Selfie Factory is located inside the ICON Outlet on the ground floor of the O2 Arena. The closest tube station is North Greenwich.
Need to know: A General Admission ticket gets you 60 minutes or you can get an all-day double pass, which gives you unlimited access to both the Selfie Factory and Tikky Town.
Karaoke
Karaoke booths are available at the two All Star Lanes venues (Brick Lane and White City) in London where rooms host up to 14 people.
Where: Brick Lane: 95 Brick Lane, E1 6QL
White City: Westfield Shopping Centre, Ariel Way, W12 7FU
Need to know: Children under 18 years are permitted to enter the venue and bowl (or take part in karaoke) when accompanied by an adult up until 6pm.
DNA VR
London’s first virtual reality arcade, DNA VR, is an interactive game space where contestants put on high-tech headsets and explore the deepest oceans, become a powerful sorcerer or survive a Zombie Apocalypse. There are single-player and multiplayer VR experiences for up to 10 players in the same Virtual World. There are three main types of experiences available at all three venues: VR Arcade, VR Escape room and Premium Free-Roaming experience.
Where: There are three venues at Camden, Hammersmith and Battersea Power Station.
Need to know: See the website for details on experiences and pricing.
Electric Game Box
This immersive interactive gaming space is a lot of fun and ideal for teens who like digital adventures. Participants at Electric Game Box can choose from five games, which are then played in private interactive digital rooms with projecting mapping, touch screens, motion tracking and surround sound. Rooms can hold between 2 – 6 people.
Where: There are London locations in Southbank and Wandsworth.
Need to know: There must be at least one participating adult (18+) per Gamebox with children under 12.
Crystal Maze Live
Although your teen might not have any idea what The Crystal Maze is, they’re guaranteed to enjoy this challenge. Based on the TV game show from the 90s, this LIVE experience is an immersive attraction that follows the same premise of the popular show. There dozens of game rooms in four different age-themed zones and physical, mental, skill and mystery challenges that must be completed in order to win a crystal. And don’t forget, you are racing against the clock!
Where: 22 – 32 Shaftesbury Ave, West End,W1D 7EU
Need to know: Bookings with guests aged under 18 must have 2 paying and playing adults (18+) per team.
Best shopping in London for Teens
Whether you like high street shopping or prefer rummaging for vintage bargains, London has some of the best shopping in the world.
Oxford Street
Running from Tottenham Court Road to Marble Arch via Oxford Circus is Oxford Street, one of London’s most famous streets and the city’s most famous shopping street. Oxford Street is home to high-end brands as well as some of the UK’s most iconic department stores including Selfridges and John Lewis.
Where: You can access Oxford Street from any of the following underground stations: Marble Arch, Bond Street, Oxford Circus and Tottenham Court Road.
Camden Market
Camden is a great neighbourhood to discover with teens, full of colour and life. One of the best places to go is Camden Market, located next to Regent’s Canal. Home to over 1,000 places to shop, eat and drink you’ll find everything from vintage clothing and jewellery to vinyl records and photography. The food options are fantastic too with street eats from around the world.
Where: Camden Lock Place, NW1 8AF. The closest underground station is Camden Town
Need to know: The market is open daily from 10am.
Carnaby Street
Carnaby Street is not only one of London’s most famous streets but also one of its most iconic. Carnaby was the birthplace of Swinging London in the 1960s – famous faces like Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones and Brigitte Bardot would visit regularly. Today Carnaby Street is home to shops including We Built This City (fun for London souvenirs), Superega and Skinny Dip, there is lots for teens to love here.
Where: The closest underground stations are Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus.
Need to know: Don’t miss Kingly Court while you’re here, a three-story alfresco food destination with 25 restaurants to choose from.
Covent Garden
Covent Garden is always lively and a really fun place for teens to discover. An official market was established here in 1670 and a fresh fruit and vegetable market stood here until the 1960s. Today the original marketing building is filled with cafes, pubs, shops and a crafts market. Some of the best shops for teens to explore include Tatty Devine, a quirky British jewellery brand, the Tintin Shop and the Dr. Marten’s store.
Where: The closest underground stations are Covent Garden and Leicester Square
Need to know: From Tuesday to Sunday, the Apple Market is filled with handmade jewellery, prints, watercolours and crafts. Mondays are when you’ll find antiques and collectables for sale.
Forbidden Planet
In London’s West End is Forbidden Planet, a ‘cult entertainment megastore’ that stocks a huge range of books covering science fiction, animation, graphic design, superheroes, computer games and much more. You’ll also find lots of DVDs, collectible figures, clothing and posters.
Where: 179 Shaftesbury Ave, WC2H 8JR. Tottenham Court Road is the nearest underground station.
Foyles Bookstores
There are lots of brilliant bookstores in London for kids and lots that are great for teens too. One of the best is Foyles Bookstore, which enjoys 37,000 square feet of floorspace and eight levels packed full of books. You’ll find everything here from LGBT & Gender Studies to Medical & Veterinary as well as plenty of YA fiction.
Where: 107 Charing Cross Road, WC2H 0DT. Tottenham Court Road is the closest tube station.
Need to know: You’ll also find branches of Foyles at the Royal Festival Hall, in Westfield Stratford City and at London Waterloo Station.
Harrods
London’s most famous department store is wildly over-the-top and it’s for that reason alone that Harrods is worth a visit. The beautiful and elegantly tiled food halls on the ground floor are a highlight but it’s worth taking time to explore the rest of the store too. There’s an art gallery, an enormous shoe department and a floor dedicated to young designer fashion labels.
Where: 87–135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, SW1X 7XL. Knightsbridge is the closest tube station.
Need to know: Harrods doesn’t open until 11am (11.30am on Sundays)
House of MinaLima
Harry Potter fans should pay a visit to Mina Lima in London’s Soho. Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima are two artists who met on the set of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets and together created the print studio MinaLima. Their store – draped in red velvet – is filled with graphic art of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films as well as limited edition art prints designed by MinaLima. You’ll also see props from the films on display.
Where: 157 Wardour St, W1F 8WQ. Tottenham Court Road and Oxford Circus are the nearest tube stations.
Need to know: You can also shop for MinaLima artwork online.
Harvey Nichols
The other big department store in Knightsbridge is Harvey Nichols, which is more commonly referred to as Harvey Nicks. The downstairs beauty space is impressive, there’s a great trainer collection and a lively food department on the fifth floor.
Where: 109 – 125 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7RJ. Knightsbridge is the closest tube station.
Need to know: The store is open from 10am – 8pm Monday to Saturday and from 11.30am – 6pm on Sunday.
Portobello Road Market
The pretty coloured houses of Portobello Road have been seen on many an Instagram photo (not to mention many a movie filmed in London). But this is an area with a long and colourful history and a neighbourhood that is wonderfully diverse. The market is one of the most famous streets markets in the world (some families have been selling on Portobello Road for generations), filled with antique, bric-a-brac and vintage clothes. It’s a really fun place to wander, browse and buy.
Where: Portobello Road is in Notting Hill in West London. Notting Hill Gate and Ladbrooke Grove are the closest tube stations.
Need to know: Portobello is several markets in one. Saturday is the busiest day, when street performers also make an appearance. Check the website to find out what market stalls are open on what days.
Brick Lane Vintage Stores
Teens who love vintage clothes should make a beeline for Brick Lane. As well as the market, where you can find stalls selling vintage ware, there are some fantastic vintage shops in the neighbourhood. Shops to add to your list include House of Vintage, Levisons, Search and Destroy, Atika London and Vintage Basement.
Where: Aldgate East is the closest tube station for Brick Lane.
Liberty
You have to visit Liberty when you’re in London simply because it’s such a beautiful store. The first Liberty store opened in 1875, started by Arthur Liberty who had plans for a London store packed full of “luxuries and fabrics from distant lands”.
He opened the Great Marlborough Street shop in 1924 and today the building, which was constructed using timber from two ancient battle ships, is a Grade II listed building. It was designed to feel like a home, which explains why you’ll come across the odd fireplace or window seat as you wander around. You can pick up all manner of souvenirs including wash bags and notebooks, all with the signature Liberty print.
Where: Regent St., Carnaby, W1B 5AH. Oxford Circus is the closest tube station.
Need to know: The store is open from 10am – 8pm Monday to Saturday and 12pm – 6pm on Sunday.
Box Park Shoreditch
In 2011 BOXPARK Shoreditch opened as the world’s first pop-up mall created from shipping containers. The concept was so successful the there are now a further two BOXPARKS in Wembley and Croydon.
The philosophy here is Eat. Drink. Shop. Play and there are plenty of options to do all four. Come here for independent and small designers, selling everything from homewares and gifts to electric skateboards and Japanese inspired stationery.
Where: Boxpark Shoreditch, 2—10 Bethnal Green Road, E1 6GY. Old Street is the closest underground station.
Need to know: BOXPARK is open from 11am – 11pm Monday to Wednesday, until 11.45pm on Saturday and until 10.30pm on Sunday. After 8pm anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 25. You will require physical photo I.D to enter BOXPARK.
Best places to eat in London with teenagers
There are loads of great places to eat in London and dozens of family-friendly restaurants. For teens looking for something a little bit more interesting however (read looks good on Instagram and Tik Tok) then these are the places you need to go.
Bubblewrap in Covent Garden
Inspired by a traditional Hong Kong street snack of egg waffles from the 1950s, these Bubblewrap waffles not only look good but they taste good too. Each wrap consists of a layer of bubble waffle, filled with ice cream, biscuits, fruit and hot toppings. They are hugely decadent and absolutely delicious.
You’ll find Bubblewrap London in Chinatown.
Where: 24 Wardour Street, W1D 6QJ. Leicester Square is the nearest tube stop.
Need to know: The waffles are very filling and one is often enough to share!
EL&N
EL&N claim to be the “most instagrammable cafe in the world” and once you’ve stepped foot inside their neon pink cafes, it’s hard to disagree. There are a number EL&N locations around London (EL&N stands for ‘Eat, Live & Nourish’) all equally pink, covered with neon signs. Even the menu is social media-friendly with a list of “Instagrammable Drinks”.
Where: There are 10 EL&N branches in London including one in Selfridges and one at Heathrow Terminal 3! Check the website for details.
Need to know: The EL&N cafe on Park Lane is particularly good for photo ops!
Peggy Porschen
The pretty-in-pink Peggy Porschen cafes are owned by cake designer Peggy Porschen who has been creating cakes that “wow” since 2003. Today her two cafes – one in Chelsea and the other in Belgravia – are the place to come for stunning sweet treats (Vanity Fair dubbed her cupcakes “the best in the world”).
Where: Belgravia: 16 Ebury Street, Belgravia, SW1W 9QQ
Chelsea: 219 King’s Road, Chelsea, SW3 5EJ
Need to know: The cafes are very popular so be prepared to wait for a table. Peggy Porschen also offers afternoon tea, take a look at the website for details.
Sketch
There are lots of places in London that serve fantastic themed afternoon teas for kids but for something a little more grown-up (i.e. that your teen will like) head to Sketch London.
Although the much loved and TikTok-friendly pink tea room is no more the afternoon tea is still very good. Plus, we’re big fans of the new solar yellow colour scheme, designed by British-Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare CBE and project architect India Mahdavi. Sketch is also now home to 13 new site-specific works designed in Yinka Shonibare’s signature aesthetic that celebrates African culture. Expect the tea room to stay on the list of most Instagrammable restaurants in London.
Tea comes with an assortment of sandwiches (flavours include cucumber and asparagus, and salmon and ricotta), a delicious range of cakes (chocolate choux and blackberry marshmallow are just two options) and then scones served with cream and jam. Note that the menu does change regularly.
Where: 9 Conduit St, W1S 2XG. Oxford Circus is the closest underground station.
Need to know: Afternoon tea at Sketch does not come cheap but it is unlimited meaning you can ask for as many sandwiches and pastries as you like – make sure to arrive hungry!
Borough Market
Located in Southwark, near London Bridge, Borough Market is the oldest food market in the capital with a history dating back some 1,000 years. Today the market is filled with fantastic street food vendors and it’s a great place to wander around and try different foods (there are a handful of restaurants as well if you want a sit down meal). We love Khanom Krok for its authentic Thai street food and Portena, for its amazing Argentinian empanadas.
Where: 8 Southwark Street, SE1 1TL. London Bridge is the closest underground station.
Need to know: The market is open Monday to Friday from 10am – 5pm, from 8am – 5pm on Saturday and from 10am – 3pm on Sunday.
Ice cream stores
For ice cream that looks as good as it tastes, take a look at this list of the best places for ice cream in London. Some of our favourite ice cream parlours include Chin Chin labs where quick freezing liquid is used to create gourmet ice cream, the Milk Train for its candy floss ice cream cones and Hans & Gretel, which is possibly the kitschiest ice cream shop in town.
The best escape games in London for teens
If your teen likes solving puzzles and is good at deciphering clues then try one of these London escape rooms for teens.
Sherlock: The Game is Now
Fans of the twists and turns of the TV show Sherlock will love this escape room. ‘Sherlock” The Game is Now’ is an immersive experience that will see you travel through the iconic sets from the show as you try to solve puzzles and crack clues.
Where: Ground Floor, West 12 Shopping Centre, Shepherd’s Bush, W12 8PP. Shepherd’s Bush is the closest tube station.
Need to know: Children over the age of 10 can play with adult supervision. Teens aged 15+ can play without an adult accompanying them. Players between the age of 15 and 17 will need an adult to sign a waiver on their behalf before playing the game.
Enigma Quests
Escape games at Enigma Quests include a Harry Potter-inspired room where players have to prove that they are a true witch or wizard, a million pound heist and a submarine quest where players have to diffuse a bomb located at the bottom of the ocean in order to save the world.
Where: 2-12 Wilson Street, EC2M 7LS. Liverpool Street is the closest tube.
Need to know: The minimum recommended age is 9 and above. Players under 16 must be accompanied by at least one adult per team.
Breakin’ Escape Rooms
Tech-savvy teens will enjoy the six different rooms at Breakin’ Escape Rooms. The different themed rooms – scenarios include a wizarding quest to find a precious artefact that has been lost for decades and escaping a pirate ship overrun with ghosts – come with lots of fun gadgetry such as puzzles on gigantic touch screens or laser-mounted weapons.
Where: 89 Holloway Rd., N78LT. The closest tube is Highbury & Islington.
Need to know: The minimum age to participate unaccompanied by an adult is 16. Under 16’s need to have at least one adult participant in the room with them during the game.
