Where to stay in London with kids (2027) – A local mum’s guide

Choosing where to stay in London with kids can be one of the biggest dilemmas when planning a family holiday to London. Get it wrong and you’ll spend half your holiday on the tube. As a London-based mum of three, I’ve tested and researched family hotels in every London neighbourhood, from budget-friendly Premier Inns to five-star boltholes with educated kids’ concierges, so you can find the perfect base for your family.

Updated for 2027

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Our favourite London hotels for families

• Best Overall: Bankside Hotel, Autograph Collection (South Bank) — interconnecting rooms, easels for kids, and an arty vibe near the river.
• Best for Toddlers & Young Kids: One Aldwych (Covent Garden) — chlorine-free pool with fish projections, cot on request, central but calm.
• Best for Teens: Zedwell Capsule Hotel (Covent Garden) — private sleeping capsules, budget-friendly, right in the heart of things.
• Best Value/Budget: Premier Inn Bank — under-16s stay free, sizeable rooms, central location.
• Best Luxury: The Milestone Hotel (Kensington) — 15 interconnecting rooms/suites, complimentary pushchairs, dedicated kids’ activities.
• Best for Larger Families (5+): St. Ermin’s Hotel (St. James’s) — two-bedroom suites sleeping five.
• Best with a Pool: Haymarket Hotel (Covent Garden) — basement swimming pool plus a two-bedroom family suite.
• Best for Royalty: Rubens at the Palace (Victoria) Rooms fit for Kings, Queens and their little entourage very close to Buckingham Palace.

Getting to London – and getting around once you’re there

Arriving in London with kids

If you’re arriving by train, the Tube is usually the easiest way to reach your hotel – all major stations have good Underground connections. If you’ve got a lot of luggage, a black cab from outside the station is worth the splurge.

If you’re flying in, especially long-haul, it’s worth arranging a car to meet you at the airport. Public transport from the major airports is excellent, but not having to haul bags and tired kids onto the Tube is worth the extra cost. SIXT is a good option – they track your flight so the driver’s waiting when you land, and they provide child seats (request these in advance).

Getting around: Tube and bus fares for kids

Once you’re here, how you pay depends on your children’s ages:

• Under 11s travel free on buses, trams, the Tube, DLR, London Overground and most National Rail services, as long as they’re with a fare-paying adult (up to 4 children per adult).
• Ages 11–15 don’t travel free, but you can get them a 50% discount — order a Visitor Oyster card in advance, then once you’re in London ask staff at any Tube station or Visitor Centre to add the Young Visitor discount. It lasts 14 days and your child needs to be present when it’s added.
• Adults can simply tap in with a contactless card or phone — no need for an Oyster card unless you’re travelling with 11–15 year-olds who need the discount applied.

Wherever you stay, being a short walk from a Tube station makes daily life easier and you’ll be grateful for it after a long day of sightseeing with tired kids.

Choosing where to stay in London with kids

Your ideal base depends on four things: location, budget, space and availability.

Location

If you’re travelling with toddlers, stay central and close to the main sights and parks — you don’t want to travel far when little legs (or patience) run out, and being centrally located means you can nip back for downtime if things go wrong.

Teenagers will love neighbourhoods like Camden and Shoreditch — cooler, edgier, and Instagram-friendly rather than actually dodgy.

Whatever your kids’ ages, being a short walk from a Tube station is a big plus.

Budget

London has some incredible family hotels — dedicated kids’ concierges, afternoon tea, design-led family rooms, swimming pools — but they come at a price.

At the other end, chains like Premier Inn skip the trimmings but deliver convenient locations, family rooms and wallet-friendly prices.

Staying more than four nights? Consider a serviced apartment — a kitchen and washing machine make a longer trip with kids much easier.

Space

Finding a London hotel room that sleeps more than four is genuinely tricky. Unlike the US, where two king beds plus a rollaway is standard, London rooms max out at four people as a rule, with only occasional exceptions.

If you’re a larger family, or travelling with tall teens who need more room, an apartment is often the better bet. I like Plum Guide for curated holiday homes.

Availability

Peak months — October half-term, Christmas and summer — mean higher prices and lower availability. Book well ahead if your trip falls in these windows.

Deciding where to stay in London with kids

Neighbourhood	Price range	Best for	Pool?	Nearest tube
Covent Garden & West End	Budget – Luxury	Central location, teens who want theatre/shopping	Yes (Haymarket, One Aldwych)	Leicester Square / Piccadilly Circus
Waterloo	Midrange	Riverside sightseeing, South Bank attractions	Yes (Park Plaza)	Waterloo
Kensington & South Kensington	Budget – Luxury	Museums, toddlers/young kids	Yes (Milestone Hotel,	High St Kensington / South Kensington / Gloucester Road
St. James’s	Budget – Luxury	Central but quiet, luxury families	Yes (Hotel Café Royal)	St. James’s Park
Earl’s Court	Budget	Value-conscious families	–	Earl’s Court / West Brompton
Marylebone	Budget – Luxury	Shopping, Regent’s Park, Zoo	Yes (The Landmark)	Marylebone / Baker Street
Mayfair	Luxury	Special-occasion luxury stays	Yes (The Dilly, Claridges)	Bond Street
Bloomsbury	Midrange	Quiet, British Museum, families with young kids	–	Russell Square
Camden	Midrange	Teens, older kids, live music/markets	Yes (The London Marriott Hotel Regents Park)	Camden Town
Kings Cross	Budget	Eurostar arrivals, Harry Potter fans, budget stays	–	King’s Cross St. Pancras
Primrose Hill	Midrange	Quiet residential base near Camden	–	Chalk Farm
Hampstead	Budget – Midrange	Nature, village feel, Hampstead Heath	–	Hampstead
Victoria	Budget – Luxury	Gatwick transfers, Buckingham Palace	–	Victoria
Borough	Budget	Foodie families, Borough Market	Yes (Hilton London Bankside)	London Bridge / Borough
Shoreditch	Midrange	Teens, street art, cool/edgy vibe	Yes (The Courthouse Hotel)	Old Street / Liverpool Street
Knightsbridge	Luxury	Harrods, high-end shopping	Yes (The Berkeley, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park)	Knightsbridge

The above map details the neighbourhoods listed below:

The best family hotels in London by neighbourhood

Every London neighbourhood has its own personality, which means that you are bound to find a postcode to suit you and your family. This guide has been broken down by neighbourhood with recommended hotels as well as things to do and transport links. 

Covent Garden and the West End

Good for: Central location, teens, theatre and shopping

If you want to stay in the centre of London then consider staying in Covent Garden and the West End. This corner of the city is one of London’s liveliest neighbourhoods, home great shopping and world famous theatres. 

Family Hotels in Covent Garden and the West End

Haymarket Hotel – Luxury, sleeps 4 (interconnecting)

Part of the Firmdale Group, the Haymarket Hotel occupies a prime location, next door to the Theatre Royal Haymarket. Beautifully designed and with a swimming pool in the basement, the hotel offers a two-bedroom suite for families. The Luxury Junior Suites interconnect. Standout for families: The basement swimming pool

Citadines Holborn – Covent Garden – Midrange, sleeps 4

The one bedroom serviced apartments are a good choice for a family break. Although not huge, there’s still plenty of room for a family of four (particularly if travelling with younger children) with a double bedroom and a generous sofa bed in the living room as well as a dining table that sits four and a fully-equipped kitchenette. Standout for families: Fully-equipped kitchen, which is good for longer stays.

One Aldwych – Luxury, sleeps 4

This is a stunning luxury hotel that comes with fantastic hotel rooms (and an extra bed or cot provided upon request in other rooms) and lots of child-friendly amenities including mini bathrobes, slippers and a selection of games and treats. Standout for families: They have a gorgeous chlorine-free swimming pool complete with music and exotic fish projections, and do a fantastic Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea.

The Z Hotel Covent Garden – Budget, sleeps 4

If you’re looking for a central address then the Z Hotel Covent Garden is a great choice. Although the air-conditioned rooms aren’t large, they are very comfortable and offer fantastic value in a great location. Standout for families: The double bunk beds in the Z Family Room offer great value for the location.

Zedwell Capsule Hotel – Budget, sleeps 1 per capsule

In the heart of London, the Zedwell Capsule Hotel offers individual sleeping capsules within a shared dormitory. This is a great budget-friendly option if you are in London with teens (and don’t mind small spaces!). The capsules are big enough for a single bed and come with a shutter for privacy. The bathrooms are shared and have private shower stalls with changing areas. Standout for families: Unbeatable price for a central location.

Travel to the West End 

Zone 1. Nearest stations: Leicester Square (Northern line), Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly line).

Waterloo

Good for: Riverside sights, museums, South Bank, theatres, walkability  

Waterloo Station is the busiest in London but it’s also a great riverside neighbourhood, filled with theatres, museums, galleries and lots of very good restaurants. Some of London’s most famous sights including Tower Bridge, the Tower of London and the Tate Modern are all just a short walk away. 

Family Hotels in Waterloo

Park Plaza County Hall – Midrange, sleeps 4

A modern hotel located on the South Bank alongside the River Thames, this popular family hotel is perfectly positioned for London sightseeing. Standout for families: Great family guest rooms and an indoor swimming pool. 

Bankside Hotel, Autograph Collection – Midrange-Luxury, sleeps 4

Located one road behind the River Thames this is one of the best family hotels in London. Its central location, excellent family amenities, a tasty restaurant and general arty vibe can’t be beat. Standout for families: Inter-connecting rooms, easels for kids and wine hour for parents.

Travel to Waterloo

Zone 1. Waterloo station is served by the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City lines.

Kensington & South Kensington

Good for: Museums, parks and toddlers

The elegant neighbourhoods of Kensington and South Kensington are some of the prettiest in London, home to stately white terraced homes set along quiet leafy streets. 

Stay here and you’ll also be within walking distance of some of the city’s best kid friendly attractions, including the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum and the Victoria & Albert Museum. Kensington Palace is also located here along with the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground. 

Family Hotels in Kensington

The following are some of my favourite family hotels in Kensington but you will also find other options listed on the map.

The Milestone Hotel – Luxury, sleeps 4

This historic luxury London hotel located opposite Kensington Gardens has 15 interconnecting rooms and suites for families as well as six luxury Residences for extended stays. Standout for families: Amenities include everything from mini bathrobes and complimentary pushchairs to turndown treats and dedicated children’s activities including family portraits and children’s art classes.

Cheval Gloucester Park – Luxury, sleeps up to 10

Choose from one-, two-, three- and five-bedroom serviced apartments at Cheval Gloucester Park, located just minutes’ walk from Gloucester Park tube station. The property offers family breaks although be aware that prices still lean towards the higher end. Standout for families: The 12-person private cinema is always a hit with kids!

The Queens Gate Hotel – Midrange, sleeps 4

This is a great hotel in a great location with excellent family accommodation options. Choose from a Deluxe Triple (with three twin beds) or a Deluxe Family with a king-size bed and two twin beds. The friendly property is an easy walk from the neighbourhood’s famous hotels as well as the Royal Albert Hall. Standout for families: Flexible room configurations for different family sizes.

The Resident Kensington – Luxury, sleeps 4

Set in a beautiful townhouse in a convenient location for the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum and the V&A, the luxury Resident Kensington offers family rooms that sleep four as well as interconnecting rooms. Standout for families: A teepee in the Studio suites and a dedicated family concierge.

The Ampersand – Luxury, sleeps 3

This characterful boutique hotel enjoys an ideal setting, within easy walking distance of the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, Kensington Gardens, Princess Diana Memorial Playground and Hyde Park. Standout for families: Rooms can accommodate either an extra bed or baby cot (not both). If you are travelling with more than one child you will need to book two rooms – many of the rooms are interconnecting.

Premier Inn Kensington (Olympia) – Budget, sleeps 4

Good value hotel with family rooms featuring include a double or kingsize bed, plus a sofa bed and pull-out bed depending on the number of guests staying in the room. Standout for families: Free travel cots; no on-site parking..

Premier Inn (Earls Court) – Budget, sleeps 4

Good value hotel with family rooms featuring a double or kingsize bed, plus a sofa bed and pull-out bed. No on-site parking available. Standout for families: Reliable budget value.

Doubletree by Hilton London Kensington – Midrange, sleeps 4 (inter-connecting)

Located in Shepherds Bush near the underground and train for reaching Harry Potter studios. Standout for families: interconnecting rooms and pretty views over the public garden.

Travel to Kensington:

Zone 1. Nearest stations: High Street Kensington, South Kensington, Gloucester Road, Earl’s Court.

St. James’s

Good for: Central but quiet, luxury families, near Buckingham Palace

Tucked away in the heart of Central London is the exclusive area of St. James’s. It’s just a stone’s throw from both Piccadilly Circus and a short walk to Buckingham Palace but despite its central postcode, it is quiet and peaceful, filled with characterful lanes and leafy squares. It’s home to several theatres, art dealers, the Royal Academy of Arts and upmarket – and truly British – shops such as Fortnum & Mason.

Family Hotels in St. James’s

St. Ermin’s Hotel – Luxury, sleeps 5

This luxury family-friendly hotel is one of the best places to stay in London with kids, not least for its Family Rooms that can sleep five. Their two-bedroom suites come with two double beds on one room and a sofa bed in the second room. Standout for families: Gifts for kids and an excellent afternoon tea.  

Conrad London St James – Luxury, sleeps 4

The Conrad London St James delivers luxury accommodation for families: their Family Connecting Room offering two rooms (one with a king-sized bed and the other with two twin beds) and two bathrooms. Standout for families: London-themed bed linen, a personalised storybook, themed treats at turndown, and unlimited access to the hotel’s children’s library.

Hotel Café Royal – Luxury, sleeps 4

One of the best family hotels in London, the Hotel Café Royal has the Royal Nanny Seal of Approval owing to its partnership with Louenna Hood, trusted Norland Nanny to numerous royal families. Standout for families: Family-friendly rooms, custom children’s menus, specially crafted trunks, a children’s playroom and an indoor pool.

hub by Premier Inn London Westminster Abbey – Budget, sleeps 2-3

If you’re visiting London with teens who require their own space then the hub by Premier Inn London Westminster Abbey is a good value option in a central location. Rooms are compact but comfortable and central. Standout for families: Central location at a budget price point.

Travel to St. James’s

St. James’s Park Underground Station is in Zone 1 on the District and Circle Lines.

Earl’s Court 

Good for: Value-conscious families

Earl’s Court is a residential area positioned between the neighbourhoods of Chelsea and Kensington that was once known for its exhibition and events centre. Many of the buildings are grand period houses and there are lots of leafy garden squares. There aren’t any big sights here but you are well placed for visiting some of London’s star attractions nearby. Plus you can find marginally cheaper hotels and rental accommodation here than in some of the fancier nearby neighbourhoods.

Family Hotels in Earl’s Court

The Resident Victoria – Midrange, sleeps 4

Friendly hotel with modern Deluxe Rooms sleeping four people located very near to Earl’s Court underground station. Standout for families: Friendly service and a convenient location.

Ibis London Earl’s Court – Budget, sleeps 4

Budget hotel with Superior Family Rooms that sleep up to four. Standout for families: There’s a carpark available (chargeable).

Travel to Earl’s Court

Zone 1. On the District, Circle and Piccadilly lines; also accessible via West Brompton (District line).

Marylebone 

Good for: Shopping, Regent’s Park, ZSL London Zoo, Baker Street sights

Located near Regent’s Park, easily one of my favourite London parks, is upmarket Marylebone. This residential neighbourhood is sandwiched between Baker Street and Oxford Street and is lined with red brick mansion blocks, shops and restaurants. Marylebone is very central and can feel quite busy at times but you have Marylebone High Street on your doorstep, one of London’s best shopping streets, plus access to the London Zoo, the Sherlock Holmes Museum and Madame Tussauds.

Family Hotels in Marylebone

The Landmark – Luxury, sleeps 4

This beautiful five-star hotel is one of the best family hotels in London. Families will love the Executive Family Rooms that come with two double beds. For more space, upgrade to the Marylebone Family Studio that has a separate living room. Standout for families: The beautiful chlorine-free swimming pool.

Holmes Hotel London – Midrange, sleeps 4

This friendly hotel is located minutes from Baker Street underground station. They have a number of suites that can sleep four people as well as interconnecting rooms. Standout for families: Their Family Experience Package includes accommodation for two adults and two children (aged 12 and under), free dining for kids (under 12 years), an inclusive breakfast and up to 25% discount off the best available rates.

The Marylebone – Luxury, sleeps 4

This lovely luxury hotel is a great option with interconnecting rooms and suites available for families. Standout for families: Children’s gifts, milk and cookies at bedtime, a DVD player and kids’ DVDs, and tepees in the Studio Suites. Babysitting is also available to book via the Concierge.

Travelodge London Central Marylebone – Budget, sleeps 4

This reliable budget chain of hotels offers family rooms sleeping up to four people and kids under 15 eat free. Standout for families: It is very popular, so make sure to book well in advance.

YHA London Central – Budget, sleeps 4

If you are visiting London with teens and want to save money then this is a great budget option. The YHA London Central has private rooms with bunk beds with ensuite bathrooms as well as private rooms with shared bathrooms. Standout for families: Excellent price point for this neighbourhood.

Travel to Marylebone

Zone 1. Marylebone underground station is on the Bakerloo line; also accessible via Baker Street. Marylebone also has a mainline train station.

Mayfair 

Good for: Luxury families, special occasions

Mayfair is one of the most upmarket neighbourhoods in London, a beautiful area that’s home to embassies, upmarket shops, art galleries and some of the best family hotels in London. Although there are no major attractions within Mayfair itself, you are perfectly positioned for exploring all that London has to offer including Hyde Park, St James’s Park and Buckingham Palace.

Family Hotels in Mayfair

Brown’s Hotel – Luxury, sleeps 4

Brown’s is one of best luxury hotels in London for families, an upmarket hideaway packed full of family-friendly amenities. All rooms come with plenty of space: their Family Rooms have two spacious rooms with a lounge area and their Family Suites come with two bedrooms, spacious living and dining areas and two bathrooms. Standout for families: Welcome gifts for kids, child-friendly spa treatments, kiddy-sized bathrobes, a teddy turndown service, and more..

St. James Hotel & Club – Luxury, sleeps 6-8

Luxury hotel St. James’s sits in the heart of Mayfair in a former diplomat’s club and offers families plenty of choice with the possibility to expand their interconnecting rooms to three or four bedrooms within one combination. Standout for families: Two-bedroom Penthouse Suite for larger groups.

Dukes Hotel – Luxury, sleeps 4

The charming Dukes Hotel sits a short walk away from Buckingham Palace, Green Park, Piccadilly and the Mayfair shops, and promises plenty of family perks. Standout for families: Free breakfast for the whole family and children under 12 eat free from the kids’ menu when dining with parents, board games, personalised monogrammed bathrobe for kids and the DUKES Scavenger Hunt.

Athenaeum Hotel & Residences – Luxury, sleeps 4-6

This family-run contemporary hotel is located opposite Green Park and offers interconnecting rooms and private Residences that come with kitchenettes and bunk beds. They often run deals for families over the school holidays. Standout for families: Free kites for flying in Green Park, bikes, colouring books, and even snacks to feed the ducks in nearby Hyde Park.

Travel to Mayfair

Zone 1. Bond Street is the nearest underground station, on the Jubilee line.

Bloomsbury

Good for: Quiet neighbourhood, British Museum, young families

Flying under the tourist radar is Bloomsbury, one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in London. Located in Zone 1, this quiet, leafy neighbourhood is home to universities, museums, bookstores, cafés and plenty of green spaces. Bloomsbury is also home to Bloomsbury Publishing, the company responsible for introducing Harry Potter to the world. 

Family Hotels in Bloomsbury

The Bloomsbury – Midrange, sleeps 4

The Bloomsbury Hotel sits in a good location, sits a short walk from the British Museum and Covent Garden with spacious family rooms and suites. Standout for families: Gifts for kids, a complimentary meal for young children under five, milk and biscuits at bed time and adjoining rooms and suites. Plus there’s a teepee for kids to sleep in..

Travel to Bloomsbury

Zone 1. Nearest stations: Russell Square, Goodge Street, Warren Street.

Camden

Good for: Teens, older kids, live music and markets 

Camden Town, otherwise known as Camden, in north-west of London is a bit busier, a bit grittier and a bit noisier than some other London neighbourhoods but it’s also a lot of fun and a great option if you are visiting London with older children or teens.

It’s famous for its live music scene (the Dublin Castle helped launch the careers of Blur and Amy Winehouse) and its market. Held at Camden Stables, the market is home to hundreds of small businesses selling everything from clothing and jewellery to music posters, homewares and knick knacks. Also worth visiting is KERB Camden Market, home to 35 different food stalls.

Family Hotels in Camden

The Holiday Inn Camden Lock – Midrange, sleeps 4

This family-friendly hotel offers family rooms with a kids stay and eat free programme. Standout for families: U18s stay free when sharing a family room and children under 12 also eat free from the kids’ menu (when accompanied by at least one full paying adult).

Travel to Camden

Zone 2, on the Northern line. Note: the station is exit-only on Sundays between 1–5pm.

Kings Cross

Good for: Eurostar arrivals, Harry Potter fans, budget stays

Kings Cross has undergone an incredible transformation over the last two decades and is today home to the glossy corporate headquarters for the likes of Google and Universal Music sit as well as cool restaurants and bars, high-end shops and lively food markets. It’s also where wizarding fans will find Platform 9 3/4 and the Harry Potter shop.

It’s a great central location for exploring London and ideally positioned for the Eurostar train that departs from St. Pancras International.

Family Hotels in Kings Cross

The Generator – Budget, sleeps 4

For an affordable central London option look at The Generator, a lively hostel that has private rooms suitable for families. Standout for families: Superior King with private bathroom starts at £75, the en-suite Twin room starts from £50, and the 4-bed private room with shared bathrooms from £53 per room.

Travelodge London Central Kings Cross – Budget, sleeps 4

Another wallet-friendly option located a quick walk from Kings Cross station is the Travelodge that offers Standard Family Rooms and SuperRoom Family. Both option sleep a maximum of two adults and two children. Standout for families: Reliably low prices for a central location.

Premier Inn London Kings Cross – Budget, sleeps 4

Only Standard Family rooms are available at this branch of the budget-friendly Premier Inn hotel chain. These come with a double or king size bed plus a sofa bed and pull-out bed. Standout for families: Free travel cots.

Travel to Kings Cross

Zone 1. Kings Cross St. Pancras is a major interchange; also the arrival point for Eurostar.

Primrose Hill 

Good for: Quiet base, great views, near to Camden

Next door to Camden is Primrose Hill, an achingly cool residential area home to a number of celebrities. It’s incredibly pretty with tree-lined streets and its own hill offering spectacular views across London. It’s close to the city centre but away from the crowds.

Family Hotels in Primrose Hill

London Marriott Hotel Regents Park – Midrange – Luxury, sleeps 4

This perfectly positioned hotel sits near Regent’s Park. Standout for families: Family Rooms that sleep up to four people in two double beds. 

Travel to Primrose Hill

Zone 2. Nearest station: Chalk Farm (Northern line), then a 5–10 minute walk.

Hampstead 

Good for: Nature, village feel, Hampstead Heath

One of my favourite neighbrouhods in London is Hampstead. Located in north London, Hampstead feels more like a small country village than a London neighbourhood. It’s filled with narrow lanes, historic houses, shops and Hampstead Heath, the much-loved heath expanse of woodland, meadows and playing fields along with three swimming ponds. 

Family Hotels in Hampstead

La Gaffe – Budget – Midrange, sleeps 3

This award-winning family-run guesthouse has been welcoming guests (including the Beatles!) since the 1960s and is a great option for families. The guesthouse sits in the heart of Hampstead village, right next to the Heath. Standout for families: Two family rooms, one with bunkbeds and the other with a full-sized single bed plus a roll away bed. 

Travel to Hampstead

Zone 2, on the Northern line.

Victoria 

Good for: The Gatwick Express, Buckingham Palace, and some theatre shows

Handy for getting to Gatwick Airport on the Gatwick Express from Victoria Station, for seeing Buckingham Palace and for watching Hamilton or Wicked, Victoria is a convenient location for families with a handful of family hotels to choose from. 

Best Family Hotels in Victoria

Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites & Residences – Luxury, sleeps up to 6

Choose from a range of suites at this family-friendly hotel housed within a series of redbrick townhouses. The hotel itself dates back to 1897 and over the years has hosted a huge number of celebrities from Diana Ross to Phil Collins. The comfortable suites come with up to three bedrooms, modern kitchens and larger living and dining rooms. Standout for families: A complimentary kids’ program with free goodie bags with activity packs and hot chocolate with marshmallows at bedtime.

Rubens at the Palace – Luxury, sleeps 3

Located on Buckingham Palace Road, this family-friendly hotel is the perfect place to stay. Standout for families: Monarch-themed bedrooms, pastry classes and afternoon tea. Children under 12 stay free when sharing a triple room with their parents. .

Comfort Inn Victoria – Budget, sleeps 4

Housed within a renovated Georgian house this hotel offers no-frills Family Rooms that can sleep up to four people. Standout for families: A good breakfast and a budget price point.

Travel to Victoria

Zone 1, on the Victoria line.

Borough 

Good for: Foodie families, Borough Market, riverside living

Lively Borough is one of my favourite London neighbourhoods. Home to Borough Market, the oldest food market in London with a history dating back around 1,000 years, it’s a fabulous place for foodies young and old. This is the ideal place to stay if you want to be in a lively neighbourhood on the river, close to some of the city’s best sights and attractions. 

Family Hotels in Borough

Premier Inn London County Hall – Budget-Midrange

This is one of the most popular branches of Premier Inn for families with comfortable, clean Family Rooms. Standout for families: Great location at wallet-friendly price.

Travel to Borough

Zone 1. Nearest stations: London Bridge, Borough, Southwark.

Shoreditch

Good for: Teens, street art, cool/edgy vibe

If you’re visiting London with teens then consider staying in Shoreditch. This is one of the coolest neighbourhoods in London, filled with interesting markets, independent stores and fun bars and restaurants. There’s lots of street art to enjoy and markets at Brick Lane and Columbia Road. 

Family Hotels in Shoreditch

The Courthouse Hotel – Midrange – Luxury, sleeps 4

One of the best family hotels in London, the Courthouse Hotel sits in a building that was once the Old Street Magistrates Court and police station; infamous London gangsters the Kray twins were once held here. Standout for families: On-site cinema, bowling alley and swimming pool.

Travel to Shoreditch 

Old Street (Northern line), Liverpool Street (Central line and others), Aldgate East (District and Hammersmith & City lines), and Shoreditch High Street (Overground).

Knightsbridge 

Good for: Luxury shopping, Hyde Park, Harrods

Home to Harrods, Harvey Nicholas and dozens of designers shops, the central London neighbourhood of Knightsbridge is one of the most expensive in London. You are also close to Hyde Park where Winter Wonderland is held over Christmas. 

Family Hotels in Knightsbridge

Knightsbridge Hotel – Luxury, sleeps 4

This luxury hotel is part of the Firmdale Group and has a number of rooms that can accommodate families. Standout for families: Lots of children’s amenities including welcome gifts, London activities book, board games and children’s menus. Babysitting is also available.

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park – Luxury, sleeps 4

This luxury hotel welcomes families offering adjoining rooms and babysitting. Standout for families: Treats for kids including umbrellas, storybooks, mini bathrobes and more.

Travel to Knightsbridge

Zone 1, on the Piccadilly line.

FAQs: Where to stay in London with kids

What’s the best area to stay in London with toddlers?

Kensington and South Kensington are ideal for toddlers, you’re within walking distance of Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground, plus the Natural History and Science Museums for rainy days. Staying central means less time on public transport with a tired toddler in tow.

What’s the best area to stay in London with teens?

Camden and Shoreditch are the best fit for teens, both have a cooler, edgier feel with markets, street art and live music, rather than the quieter, family-focused streets of areas like Kensington or Marylebone.

What’s the cheapest area to stay in London with kids?

Earl’s Court and Kings Cross tend to have the most budget-friendly options, including Premier Inn, Travelodge and hostel-style family rooms. Wherever you look, chains like Premier Inn and Travelodge are generally your best bet for value, since many independent budget hotels require booking two separate rooms for a family.

Do kids stay free in London hotels?

It depends on the hotel. Some, including certain Premier Inn, Novotel and Holiday Inn properties, let under-16s (or sometimes under-18s) stay free when sharing a family room with two adults. Check the hotel to make sure.

Do kids travel free on the London Underground?

Children under 11 travel free on the Tube, buses, DLR, Overground and most National Rail services when with a fare-paying adult (up to four children per adult). Children aged 11–15 aren’t free, but can get a 50% discount with the Young Visitor discount, added to a Visitor Oyster card once you’re in London.

Is London walkable with a pushchair?

Central London is generally pushchair-friendly, with dropped kerbs and step-free access at most major stations, though some older Tube stations have limited lift access – check the TfL step-free access map before planning routes with older lines like the Piccadilly or Northern. Staying in a flatter, more central neighbourhood (Kensington, Covent Garden, St. James’s) will make pushchair days easier than areas with steep hills like Hampstead or Primrose Hill.