Little Londoners: Exploring London With Babies in Tow

Published: May 13, 2026
mother kissing her baby in london

So, you’re dreaming of those classic London sights—but you’ve got a tiny teammate coming along for the ride! Good news: London absolutely shines as a baby-friendly city. Whether you’re after stroller-friendly strolls, interactive museums, gentle boat rides, or whimsical spots where you can relax (and, yes, feed and change in peace), the British capital truly rolls out the red carpet for families with babies. Ready to plan an unforgettable adventure for you and your littlest traveler? With these top picks, you’ll balance naptimes with playtimes, see some of London’s greatest hits, and enjoy a few relaxing pit stops along the way. 

Our fave baby-friendly experiences in London include: 

London Zoo 

The London Eye 

Kew Gardens 

River Cruise on the Thames 

The Postal Museum 

London Transport Museum 

Kensington Palace and Gardens 

Southbank strolls and playgrounds 

The Diana Memorial Playground 

Baby brunch at The Parlour in Kensal 

Greenwich Park & Royal Observatory 

Toddler Time at Discover Children’s Story Centre 

London Zoo: Roar, Squeal, Smile!

From the tiniest newborn to the most boisterous crawler, babies light up at the colourful, sensory world of the London Zoo. Located in Regent’s Park, the zoo feels like stepping into storybook scenes: think waddling penguins, curious meerkats, and gentle giants tucking into breakfast. Wide, pram-friendly paths wind past animal habitats and lush gardens, making it easy for your little one to take in the sights (or snooze, if it all gets too exciting). 

What sets London Zoo apart for parents is the thoughtful layout—plentiful benches, well-marked baby changing stations, and loads of shaded spots perfect for feeding or a quiet cuddle. The Butterfly Paradise offers a gentle, interactive haven where tiny hands can wave at fluttering friends. The Children’s Farm gives babies their first up-close look at friendly goats and fluffy bunnies, surrounded by fresh hay smells and soft sunlight—hello, best baby sensory activity ever. 

When baby grows fussy, the lawns are perfect for a blanket flop, and the onsite cafés whip up stellar coffee and surprisingly good homemade cakes for grown-ups (banana loaf is a hit). Staff are always ready with a smile or a tip on how to spot the sleepy sloths. Zoos are brilliant first adventures for little ones—London Zoo is no exception, delivering animal magic in bite-sized strolls and making family memories from the very first trip. 

Tip: The Reptile House is blissfully warm inside on chilly days, and the Penguin Beach is a visual treat year-round—babies love watching those flippery dives! 

The London Eye: Take Baby’s Senses For a Spin 

London’s skyline looks spectacular from the ground, but stepping aboard the London Eye is something else—especially with a baby in tow. The glass pods glide gently high above the Thames, offering jaw-dropping views at a peaceful, pram-rolling pace. What’s particularly great for babies? The sensory appeal: slow-moving pods, huge clear windows at eye-level (yes, babies love pressing noses against the glass), and the subtle excitement of changing light and shadow as you rotate. 

The entire experience is stroller-friendly—staff help you on and off with ease, and there’s room in each pod so the whole family can spread out. If your little one needs feeding or changing, rest assured the riverside area is dotted with modern facilities and baby-friendly cafés after your ride. 

We especially recommend a mid-morning rotation: babies tend to be their most alert and happy, and the city sparkles in soft daylight. Watching boats glide on the river below acts like real-life lullaby TV. For parents, seeing babies track the movement of tiny cars far beneath or gaze up at clouds is a small wonder in itself. You might even capture that first “ooh!” on camera. 

Bonus: The Eye’s surrounds offer stroller-friendly pathways, perfect for a laidback riverside stroll, so you can keep the adventure going before or after your flight! 

Kew Gardens: Fresh Air and Colourful Calm 

Stroller wheels glide smoothly across Kew Garden’s leafy paths, making this a dream destination for parents with babies needing fresh air. Kew Gardens offers a gentle change of pace, with room to stretch, feed, stroll and admire the blooms—especially soothing for new parents. 

The gardens are known for sensory delights. Listen for birdsong, watch spring daffodils or autumn leaves, and enjoy gentle breezes in vast greenhouses (the Palm House is a warm treat in winter). Babies light up at rustling bamboo, the rainbow swathes of the Rose Garden, and—if they’re older—make a beeline for the Children’s Garden’s water play and mini hills. 

Parents will find feeding and changing facilities at several well-signposted points, alongside family-friendly cafés serving good flat whites, fresh scones and smile-inducing pastries. You can even join in on seasonal baby buggy tours, led by guides who happily tailor stops around nap timings and cranky moments. Among our favorite corners is the treetop walkway, where babies (and grownups!) gasp at rustling leaves and dappled light as you gently bounce along. 

The vibe here is easygoing—perfect for a first London outing where there’s zero rush and all the time in the world for those impromptu feed breaks on a leafy lawn bench. 

City Cruises – Baby’s First Boat Ride On The Thames 

Boat trips are a London family classic. With City Cruises, your pram rolls onboard and you’re off to see the skyline from a whole new angle. Babies feel soothed by the soft movement on the river, and there’s a ton to watch—towering bridges, watchful gulls, and boats big and small racing by. Sun or drizzle, this is a ride that feels safe and snug. 

Parents can relax knowing the inside cabins are heated and offer clear views, while covered outdoor decks let you all share in the fresh air. The chatter of the tour guides is lively and never overwhelming, and the gentle rock of the boat often sends babies off to sleep—call it the London lullaby zone. 

Changing facilities on larger boats keep things stress-free, and there’s always space to park buggies and stretch little legs. We suggest disembarking at Tower Bridge or Greenwich for a riverside snack stop; both have baby-friendly cafés, spotless loos, and easy access back onto cruise boats if naptime ends early. There’s something about water, movement, and soft city light that makes these trips a real win for parents and babies alike. 

The Postal Museum and Mail Rail 

When you think of London museums, you might picture dusty galleries—but The Postal Museum is a lively exception, delivering vibrant colour and plenty of action for even the youngest visitors. The main galleries brim with interactive displays, vintage postboxes, and eye-catching vehicles (red mail vans are a hit with curious crawlers). 

But the real draw for families? The Mail Rail—a gentle underground train ride through century-old tunnels. Babies enjoy the dim, fairy-lit world and the sing-song commentary, while parents marvel at this off-the-beaten track adventure that rarely gets crowded. Wide corridors, lifts, and numerous rest spots make getting around with a baby straightforward. 

Sit down in the Postal Play Area (soft mats, baby toys, walls to crawl and climb) and you could easily enjoy a stress-free hour as a family—especially on rainy days. The café serves hearty sandwiches, hot tea, and baby-sized snacks, while change facilities are meticulously kept. Museums don’t always feel tailor-made for the littlest visitors, but this one does—let the adventure begin! 

London Transport Museum: Wheels, Ramps, and Mini Explorers 

All aboard! The London Transport Museum is a sensory and interactive delight in Covent Garden—one that babies and toddlers can genuinely enjoy. Pram-friendly lifts whisk you between floors filled with colourful old buses, trams, and tube carriages, while the All Aboard play zone gives little ones freedom to crawl and climb. 

The museum’s attractions are bright, with knobs, buttons and lights to press, and the Baby DLR role-play area features soft mats, wooden carriages, and gentle sound effects. For even smaller babies, spacious galleries are ideal for calm strolls, with seating and changing points dotted along the way. Staff are famously welcoming—ask for their recommendations if you’re juggling sleep windows, and they’ll point you to the most tranquil corners. 

Parents love the on-site café, where high chairs and baby snacks are always available and the giant transport-themed cake slices are an easy pick-me-up. If you time it right, you might even catch a family storytelling session, perfect for bringing classic London tales to life. When your baby needs a nap, take a peaceful wander through Covent Garden’s piazzas—the street musicians and gentle fountains provide built-in white noise, lulling tired little adventurers peacefully to sleep. 

Kensington Palace and Gardens: Royal Relaxation For All Ages

You and your baby get a healthy dose of London’s royal side at Kensington Palace, nestled amid the soothing stretches of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. Start with a buggy-friendly ramble through the grounds: wide paved paths, secret corners like the Sunken Garden, and plenty of swans gliding past Peter Pan’s statue cast a gentle spell. 

The palace itself is pram-accessible and invites families to dip in and out of lushly furnished rooms—spot the golden cradle in the Royal bedrooms or peer out at the gardens where the young royals once played. Babies tend to love the dappled light and rich colours in the King’s State Apartments, while parents can pause at cozy rest stops or outside the palace’s famous orangery café. 

The adjacent park spaces are a godsend when your baby needs a break or a change of scene—find the Diana Memorial Playground or the Italian Gardens for a chilled picnic. You can stretch out under old oaks or just follow the swan boats along the Round Pond. On your stroll, you’ll spot other families enjoying gentle exercise, so you’ll feel right at home. 

Southbank Rambles: Stroll, Snack, and Play 

The Southbank is where London comes to life—stroller wheels and tiny toes are always welcome here. Start at the London Eye and head along the riverside walkways; these routes are flat, spacious, and packed with street performers, bubble-blowers, and musicians. Your baby will be mesmerized by the colours, movement and sounds from buskers, and you’ll appreciate the roster of baby-friendly coffee shops every 100 yards. 

There are plenty of spots to stop: pop into family-friendly Giraffe for pancakes, or the Southbank Centre’s seasonal food market for a taste of London’s best sourdough toasties or pint-sized pastries. For a quieter escape, the Jubilee Gardens playground offers soft surfaces and baby swings to enjoy in the sunshine. 

Parents often rave about the welcoming vibe here—everyone’s happy to help with prams and there’s no rush as you watch the Thames roll by. Indoor spaces like the Southbank Centre offer well-equipped changing and feeding rooms if the weather turns—but honestly, the people-watching here is enough entertainment for everyone. 

Diana Memorial Playground: Whimsical Play and Relaxation 

Princess Diana’s Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens is a baby and toddler paradise, inspired by Peter Pan and filled with sensory magic. While the centrepiece pirate ship is aimed at older kids, the sandpits, teepees and gentle walkways make this one of London’s best outdoor play spaces for little ones. 

What stands out for families is the security: the entire playground is fenced, and helpful staff monitor the gates—so you can relax on giant wooden benches and watch your little explorer discover gentle swings, sound sculptures, and shaded hideaways. Lush landscaping means there’s always a spot of shade and plenty of spots for impromptu picnics (grab lunch from the nearby Broad Walk Café, known for its veggie tarts and melt-in-the-mouth cakes). 

Afternoons here are full of laughter, barefoot waddles, and magical storytelling corners—making it a must on any family-friendly London itinerary. 

Baby Brunch at The Parlour, Kensal 

Sometimes you need a restorative break—both for the grownups and your baby. Head to The Parlour in Kensal: this quirky, colorful café is beloved by local families and serves up one of London’s best brunches for parents with babies in tow. 

High chairs and changing facilities come as standard, but what really shines is the menu: fluffy buttermilk pancakes with berry compote, smashed avocado on sourdough, and a signature dark chocolate hot chocolate to banish all fatigue. Staff are famously welcoming to children and happily help with warming bottles or prepping baby meals. 

There’s space to park your buggy, plenty of nooks for feeding, and a kids’ breakfast menu with baby-appropriate mushy fruit and oat porridge. The garden terrace at the back is decked in cheerful bunting in spring and summer—grab a table and let your baby watch the world go by among sunflowers and fairy lights. It’s a perfect spot for both a grownup treat and a tiny timeout. 

Greenwich Park & The Royal Observatory: Sky-High Fresh Air Fun 

Rolling hills, ancient chestnut trees, and views stretching all the way to St Paul’s—Greenwich Park makes a gorgeous day trip for parents with babies. Paths are stroller-friendly, and grassy slopes provide endless space for impromptu picnics, tummy time, or just soaking up the sun. 

The Royal Observatory is a fun way to sneak a bit of London history into your outing, and parents love the spacious visitor centre, which offers feeding and changing rooms. If you’re feeling adventurous, pop into the Planetarium for a daytime show where gentle visuals mesmerize even the youngest minds. 

Within the park, there’s a popular café serving hearty brunches and baby-friendly snacks, plus a fenced playpark (just outside the Observatory) where the tiniest travelers can swing and climb in safety. Don’t skip a wander through the rose gardens, where the air smells of summer blooms and happy families. You’ll come away with rosy cheeks, baby giggles, and probably a photo or two to treasure. 

Toddler Time at Discover Children’s Story Centre 

East London’s Discover Children’s Story Centre pulls off something magical: creating an enchanting world for babies and toddlers, while giving parents a chance to recharge in warm, friendly surrounds. If you need indoor inspiration, their “Story Worlds” spaces feature a baby-friendly sensory garden, story book exhibits, soft play areas, and a woodland trail designed for the youngest explorers. 

Check out their Toddler Time sessions if you’re in town midweek—gentle music, puppet stories, and all sorts of interactive activities that encourage both babies and parents to have a real giggle. Staff are caring, creative and expert at turning every visit into a mini adventure—even rainy London days feel sunny inside. 

The onsite café is great for easy meals, with everything from baked potatoes to finger foods for little diners. After play, parents can catch a few quiet moments in the storytelling nook, or stock up on picture books for the flight home. It’s no wonder Discover is a hit with locals and visitors alike—a true oasis for baby-time in the city. 

Time For You and Your Baby To Discover London!  

London is the rare city where world-class attractions, cozy parks, and welcoming eats blend perfectly with the unpredictable rhythm of life with a baby. Whether your little one is experiencing their first butterfly, napping as Big Ben rings out, or simply delighting in a loaf of fresh-baked bread by the river, these moments become treasured family travel memories. With these practical, playful picks, exploring London together is an absolute joy—snuggles, snacks, and new discoveries guaranteed. 

 

Enjoyed this? Check out our comprehensive guide to Sea Life, and wander the city’s best walks,  

Step up your sightseeing with Go City®  

We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  

See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 

Powered by AI

This article was generated with the help of AI to provide accurate and up-to-date information. The Go City team has reviewed and curated the content to ensure it meets our quality standards for accuracy and relevance.

Continue reading

shot of the shard and london
Blog

Explore The Shard's Neighborhood For Free: Top Picks Revealed

So you’ve ticked The Shard off your London must-see list and snapped those impressive skyline photos—but what next? The surrounding neighborhood brims with local character and no-cost experiences for anyone who likes their adventures wallet-friendly. From riverside promenades and tucked-away gardens to intriguing museums and quirky street art, there’s a hidden world waiting just beyond The Shard’s shadow. We’ve rounded up the best free things to do nearby, perfect for travelers who love an authentic city vibe (and saving those pounds for the next pastry or pint). Get ready to soak up history, culture, and views—no ticket required.  Our favourite free things to do near The Shard:  Potter’s Fields Park  Borough Market Wandering  Southwark Cathedral  Hay’s Galleria  Thames Riverside Walk  The Old Operating Theatre Museum (lobby & exterior)  Crossbones Graveyard  White Cube Bermondsey  St. George the Martyr Church  Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel  Potter’s Fields Park   If you fancy fresh air with a proper view, Potter’s Fields Park is the perfect patch of green. Located right between The Shard and Tower Bridge, this riverside spot is everyone’s go-to picnic area or sun-tanning base. It’s the park where Londoners unwind, watch boats cruise by, and catch up with friends—no entrance fee, no fuss. Grab your sandwich from a nearby deli and find a spot on the grass, where views of the Thames and iconic Tower Bridge elevate every bite. In spring, the flower beds burst into colour, while summer brings all manner of pop-up entertainment, from open-air film nights to dance performances. It’s often just buzzing enough to feel lively, but there’s always a quiet patch for a quick nap or some people-watching. You’ll spot fitness classes, families with kids, and selfie-takers all sharing the same riverside magic—this is a bit of real London life right by The Shard.  Borough Market Wandering   Just a couple of minutes stroll from The Shard, Borough Market pulses with legendary London energy. Now, while shopping and snacking cost money, exploring the sights, sounds, and (let’s be honest) smells is completely free. You’ll wander through Victorian arches soaked in foodie history, passing cheese stalls that look straight out of a British film set, piles of colourful produce, and the occasional stallholder giving away flamboyant samples (fingers crossed for cheese or olives). The market’s lively hum mixes up chatter from locals, camera-toting tourists, and chefs from nearby eateries on their lunch break. Soak up the aromas, spot some of London’s oldest street signage, and see if you can find the market cat. If you’re lucky, you might catch a culinary demonstration or a spot of acoustic music out front—sometimes the “food theatre” is even open for public events. Even just window-shopping rounds here count as pure entertainment.  Hay’s Galleria   Rain or shine, Hay’s Galleria is one of the city’s most picturesque enclosed spaces—think iron-and-glass curves, riverside breeze, and plenty of places to explore. Originally a Victorian wharf, today it’s filled with striking public art, including the epic Navigators sculpture that looks like something from a Jules Verne novel. Wander through the covered walkways for free and watch the fountains dance. Window-shop at the quirky little kiosks or soak up views over the Thames from the riverside terrace. During holidays, twinkling lights and seasonal decorations transform the galleria into a magical retreat. When buskers show up, it’s basically a free concert under the glass roof.  Thames Riverside Walk   Nothing says “London experience” like a stroll along the Thames Path. Head east or west from The Shard and you get an ever-changing backdrop: gleaming glass towers, historic brick warehouses, bobbing boats, and dramatic bridges. Stop to admire Tower Bridge’s engineering up close, watch skateboarders at the Southbank Centre, or spot City Hall’s glassy curves next door. Handy signposts point out historical landmarks along the way. Bring your camera—golden hour here is always special, and there’s plenty of space to lean on the railings, people-watch, and pretend you’re in a spy movie. The best part? It’s always open and always free.  The Old Operating Theatre Museum (Lobby & Exterior)   Inside, there’s a fee for the full museum, but you can pop into the entryway of one of London’s oddest history spots for free, and admire the centuries-old herb garret exterior from the curb. The Old Operating Theatre Museum sits in the church tower of St Thomas’—literally round the corner from The Shard—and its quirky spiral staircase has enticed curious passersby for generations. Take a peek at the preserved facade and the tiny apothecary shop in the entry; pick up a free pamphlet on medical history before you go. Even if you don’t head up, standing beneath the high windows and stone tower is worth a short detour.  White Cube Bermondsey   Big-name contemporary artists, award-winning architecture, and a cool, gallery-chic vibe—all with zero admission? Yes please. White Cube is tucked down Bermondsey Street, a 10-minute walk from The Shard, and it’s always free to visit. This vast, minimalist space rotates exhibitions from emerging and global stars (think Yayoi Kusama or Damien Hirst), but even if modern art isn’t your usual cup of tea, the sheer scale and creativity on display can surprise you. The gallery staff are friendly if you fancy a chat, and the vibe is relaxed—you can spend 5 minutes or an hour, and nobody rushes you.  St. George the Martyr Church   Nestled on Borough High Street, St. George the Martyr is another historic gem that welcomes visitors for free exploration. Charles Dickens put this 18th-century church on the literary map in “Little Dorrit”, and its Georgian façade remains a tranquil counterpoint to city bustle. Step inside for a breather, admire the ornate stained glass and elegant wooden pews, or linger in the small, sun-drenched garden out front. A real sanctuary for a quiet moment—and often a hub for free community music events and choral recitals if your timing’s good.  Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel   Feeling creative? The Leake Street Tunnel, near Waterloo and an easy stroll from The Shard along the riverside, is London’s largest legal graffiti wall. Every inch of brick is layered with artworks, slogans, and wild bursts of colour, refreshed by artists daily. The tunnel thrums with energy and photo ops galore. It’s all constantly changing—so even if you’ve been before, you’ll spot something new. Sometimes you might catch a street artist at work or find impromptu performances spilling out from the vaults. Best of all, it’s all free, and the ever-evolving display makes this one of London’s most vibrant urban art spaces.   Ready for Free Fun Near The Shard?   London’s tallest skyscraper may steal the skyline, but there’s so much to discover just outside its doors that won’t dent your budget. Take your pick from peaceful parks, dramatic riverside walks, hidden pieces of history, and eye-popping art spaces. Life near The Shard runs at its own pace—sometimes tranquil, sometimes buzzing, always inviting.  With these picks on your list, you’re set for a day (or two) of free discoveries—all just a stroll away from one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Happy exploring!    Enjoyed this? Check out our comprehensive guide to Madame Tussauds, and how to celebrate Pride in the city.  Step up your sightseeing with Go City®   We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.   See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 
the london eye on a sunny day
Blog

Free Fun Near London Eye: Explore Without Spending a Penny

Standing beneath the London Eye, it’s easy to get swept up in London’s energy—and yes, you might worry your wallet could take off faster than a capsule! But here’s some good news: this buzzing area is packed with experiences that don’t cost a thing. Whether you’re a history buff, people-watcher, or just want to soak up riverside vibes, we’ve uncovered vibrant culture, stunning views, leafy escapes, and those quirks that make London unforgettable—all for free. Ready to wander beyond the ticket queues and see what the South Bank (and beyond) really has to offer? Let’s fill your day with London Eye neighbor gems that your budget will love.  Our favorite free things to do near the London Eye include:  South Bank Walks  Tate Modern  Jubilee Gardens  The National Theatre Foyer  BFI Southbank  Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel  The Palace of Westminster (from the outside)  Covent Garden Street Performers  St James’s Park  Gabriel’s Wharf and Riverside Murals  South Bank Walks  If you’re after atmosphere, the South Bank always delivers. Start right at the London Eye and wander east along the Thames. You’ll pass buskers, pop-up food stalls, book markets beneath Waterloo Bridge, and open-air art installations. The river views are ace: catch locals whizzing by on roller skates, violinists with sweeping soundtracks, and families soaking up city life. The path is flat and accessible, with ever-changing street theatre, pop-up exhibitions, and snapshots of classic London landmarks on both banks. Golden hour here—especially with the London skyline glowing across the water—simply can’t be beat.  Jubilee Gardens  A patch of green in the middle of city buzz, Jubilee Gardens is tailor-made for picnics, sunbathing, or just kicking back after a morning on your feet. Sunflowers, fountains, and sweeping lawns give you loads of space to relax—and the views of the Eye looming overhead make every selfie pop. There’s a children’s playground for families, plenty of benches for people-watching, and on weekends, the park hosts local events and entertainers. Bonus: it’s an ideal stop to refuel with a supermarket meal deal!  The National Theatre Foyer  Pop inside the National Theatre (no ticket required!) and you’ll find public spaces filled with changing art displays, comfy chairs, and riverside views. Free WiFi and plenty of quiet corners make this a local’s favourite for reading or people-watching. Check out pop-up exhibitions, seasonal flower displays, and on some days, you might even stumble into a lunchtime classical concert or a rehearsal happening in the lobby. It’s creative, cosseting, and right at the heart of London’s cultural buzz.  BFI Southbank  Film buffs, this one’s for you. The British Film Institute’s riverside home opens its stylish lounge, film posters and memorabilia displays, and media mediatheque archive for free visitors every day. Curl up in a mid-century chair and watch rare British films or newsreels in the mediatheque or browse fascinating archives along the foyer walls. The buzz is creative and relaxed, a great hideout for appraising movie history—especially handy on a rainy London day.  The Palace of Westminster (From the Outside)  Sure, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament need no introduction, but have you truly soaked in their grandeur from across the river? Wander to Westminster Bridge (mere minutes from the London Eye) for the very best photo ops. Often, you’ll find street musicians playing dramatic anthems in the background, as red buses whoosh past and seagulls wheel overhead. You don’t need a tour or a ticket to enjoy some of London’s most famous views for absolutely nothing.  Covent Garden Street Performers  A delightful 15-minute stroll from the London Eye brings you to Covent Garden—a hub of free entertainment every day of the week. The historic piazza buzzes with magicians, musicians, living statues, and theatrical performers (juggling flaming torches is just the warm-up). The atmosphere is vibrant and cheeky: expect laughter, gasps, and the occasional magic trick right in front of you. Street entertainers have been thrilling crowds here for centuries, and the tradition is alive and kicking. Pull up a spot on the cobbles and enjoy a truly “London” spectacle.  St James’s Park  Stretch your legs with a scenic wander through St James’s Park, one of London’s oldest and most beautiful green spaces—less than 15 minutes’ walk from the Eye. Think sweeping flower beds, swans gliding across the lake, and, of course, views of Buckingham Palace at one end. The unusual pelicans (a gift from a Russian ambassador hundreds of years ago!) are always a crowd-pleaser. The park’s wide avenues and peaceful gardens offer a much-needed escape from city clamor without ever leaving the center.  Gabriel’s Wharf and Riverside Murals  Tucked along the South Bank’s river walk, Gabriel’s Wharf is a pocket-sized haven for art lovers and explorers. Follow the trail of eye-catching murals and witty signage, then enjoy the quirky vibe at the wharf itself—free riverside seating, lively outdoor sculptures, and lovely people-watching. It’s a little oasis of creativity, and while the indie shops and cafes do tempt you, the experience—and the riverside murals—come at no charge.    And there you have it—ten ways to fill your itinerary, see fresh sides of London, and keep your spending on the fun side of sensible. Happy exploring!    Enjoyed this? Check out our comprehensive guide to the London Eye, and learn even more about Southbank.  Step up your sightseeing with Go City®   We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.   See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 

Get your free guidebook!

Plan your perfect trip with our insider guide – top attractions, itineraries and local tips straight to your inbox.