Unmissable London Fun for Families with Teens

Published: May 13, 2026
teens in a london park

When it comes to family trips, traveling with a teenager (or two… or three) can be a high-stakes balancing act. You want days packed with memories and wow moments they’ll still be talking about next year—not just a perfectly grumpy gallery of “meh” faces on your camera roll. The good news? London delivers the goods. Whether your crew’s craving daring heights, Insta-worthy eats, legendary football stadiums, or art that goes lightyears beyond the ordinary, this city has you covered. Prepare for a whirlwind of adventure, a dash of culture, and so many chances for those genuine “this is awesome!” moments—no family bribes required. Ready to plan a trip that’ll wow even the toughest teen critic? Here’s our list of the coolest things to do in London with teens. 

Our top picks for things to do with teens in London: 

Up at the O2 

London Eye 

Moco Museum 

Wembley Stadium Tour 

Crazy Golf at Swingers West End 

Camden Market 

City Cruises: Thames River Pass 

Wicked The Musical 

London Bicycle Tour by The London Bicycle Tour Company 

Chocolate Cocktail Club 

Up at the O2: Climb to New Heights 

If your crew has a taste for thrill (or a knack for eye-popping selfies), you can’t beat Up at the O2. Here’s your chance to scale the roof of one of London’s most distinctive landmarks—safely harnessed in and with friendly guides, of course. You suit up in climbing gear, clip onto the walkway, and then it’s game on: an unforgettable ascent up the domed roof with the lights of London all around you. 

The vibe? Pure adventure with a backdrop of city skyline, Olympic Park, winding Thames, and Canary Wharf’s modern towers. Whether you’re racing your teens to the summit or taking a chill pace, the 360-degree views at the top are absolutely worth the climb—especially at sunset, when the city glows below. Teens will love the sense of challenge (and the bragging rights that come with it). Even the most social media-shy can’t resist snapping skyline selfies up here. And if someone’s a little nervous, the crew is there to keep things encouraging and safe—no pressure, just loads of fun. It’s active, upbeat, and a million miles from your average tourist experience. 

London Eye: The City Laid Out Beneath You

There’s a reason everyone from pop stars to visiting presidents hops onto the London Eye. This giant Ferris wheel towers above the South Bank and serves up dreamy, ever-changing views of Big Ben, St Paul’s, the Shard and beyond. Teens typically appreciate experiences that break from the ordinary—and there’s nothing like seeing a city from above to spark fresh appreciation (and, let’s be honest, perfect phone backgrounds). 

Each capsule is roomy, climate-controlled, and perfect for spotting London’s famous landmarks. The slow spin means there’s plenty of time to take everything in, grab a family photo, or—if you’re with a future Tiktok star—stage your own panoramic video. The experience is part adrenaline, part awe, but always memorable. As you gently reach the top, you feel like you’re floating on air. Oh, and the South Bank just below is packed with food stalls, skate parks, and street performers, so you can carry the energy into the rest of your day. 

Moco Museum: Urban Art with an Edge 

Let’s be real: not every art museum wins over a teenage crowd. The Moco Museum isn’t just an exception—it’s the gold standard for capturing cool. This powerhouse of contemporary and street art is housed in a grand townhouse in Mayfair, making the edgy art feel even more out of place (in a great way). 

Here, you’ll spot original pieces by Banksy, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Keith Haring—names that light up pop culture feeds as much as art history textbooks. Funky installations, neon signs, and immersive rooms mean there’s something surprising around every corner. Teens can get up close with art that feels dynamic, subversive, and interactive—not the usual ‘do-not-touch’ gallery vibe. 

What makes it especially awesome? The museum celebrates creativity and social commentary, so there are always new conversations to have as you wander. Whether your teen is into urban culture, design, or just likes snapping quirky photos, Moco Museum hits the mark. After you’ve checked out the art, Hyde Park isn’t far away for a stroll or impromptu skate session. 

Wembley Stadium Tour: Football Royalty 

If your teenagers are obsessed with football, Wembley Stadium isn’t just a venue—it’s Holy Ground. This is where legends play, from England’s national team to top musicians (Beyoncé, BTS, Ed Sheeran, and more). The behind-the-scenes tour is packed with surprises. Start by walking out the Players Tunnel, just like you’ve seen on TV, imagining the roar of the crowd. 

You’ll peer into the players’ locker rooms, visit the Royal Box (selfies with a replica FA Cup, anyone?), sit in commentary booths, and get a peek at match-day routines. What makes the tour fun for non-sports fans? The stories and trivia: crazy headlines, childhood dreams come true, records shattered, and celebrations that rocked the nation. Even if you’re only mildly footy-mad, the energy of the stadium gets to you. 

Guides are nothing if not passionate, and there are plenty of interactive displays and photo ops along the way. For a bonus, grab lunch or snacks at Boxpark Wembley—super close by and loaded with global street food vendors. 

Crazy Golf at Swingers West End: Next-Level Mini Golf 

Ready for a little friendly competition? Crazy Golf at Swingers West End takes mini golf to new places—think neon-lit courses, quirky obstacles, and a party atmosphere. It’s mini golf, but with wild London themes, fun music, super creative cocktails for the adults, and gourmet street food from pop-up stalls. 

What do teens love most? The playful but competitive mood. You can challenge your teenager to wild trick shots, ricochet through London-inspired challenges (phone box obstacles, anyone?), and land some ridiculous hole-in-ones. It’s energetic, silly, and low-pressure—everyone’s cheering each other on… and maybe trash-talking just a bit for laughs. Order pizza or tacos in between rounds and it feels like an urban festival—especially at night when the lights are glowing, the playlist hits just right, and London’s creative crowd drops in. Reserve ahead for weekends, because it’s always buzzing with energy and laughter. 

Camden Market: Shop, Eat, and Soak Up Edgy London 

If you want to show teens the side of London that feels truly ‘them’, Camden Market is the ultimate destination. Part outdoor market, part street food heaven, part alt-culture playground, Camden is bursting with creative energy. Here you’ll find an endless mix of pop-up stalls selling vintage hoodies, comic books, retro jewelry, and hand-painted sneakers. The crowd is as colorful as the murals—punks, goths, students, tourists, and everyone in-between. 

The food choices are legendary. Asian fusion, Venezuelan arepas, curly fries, vegan burgers, build-your-own bubble tea—you name it, Camden’s got a vendor making it fresh. Grab lunch, wander the canal, check out the record shops, and dive into curious little boutiques crammed with pop culture finds. 

Don’t miss Cyberdog, glowing with its rave wear and robots, and if you want a music fix, the old stables now house gig venues pumping out live tunes most evenings. For families with teens, Camden is freedom—safe to roam, fun to discover, barely a tourist trap in sight, and always a conversation starter. If you want another nearby adventure, the London Zoo in Regent’s Park is a 15-minute stroll (and just as lively). 

City Cruises: Thames River Pass – All Aboard for Sightseeing (with Zero Boredom)

Walking can be a tough sell after a full morning in London. Enter the Thames River cruise—no tired feet, just fresh air and a whirlwind tour of history and city highlights. These river boats zip you from Westminster to Greenwich with glittering views of major landmarks (the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Shakespeare's Globe, the London Eye, and so much more) along the way. 

There’s indoor and outdoor seating, plenty of opportunities for photos, and a lively commentary that covers everything from royal gossip to the Olympics. You can hop on and off to explore or just enjoy a round-trip ride. Teens love the sense of space, the onboard snacks and the chance to see the city from a different angle—not to mention the stories (pirates! hidden tunnels! secret spies!) that bring everything alive. 

It’s a great way to break up the day and let everyone recharge before the next round of London adventure. If you hop off in Greenwich, check out the Royal Observatory or Cutty Sark—both teen-friendly and loaded with hands-on activities. 

Wicked The Musical: An Age-Appropriate Night Out 

Thinking “theater” may sound like a stretch for teens? Wait until they see Wicked. This West End hit is one of the world’s best-loved musicals because it’s anything but predictable: there are flying witches, high-flying solos, magical sets, and themes that strike a chord with everyone (friendship, loyalty, being true to yourself). 

The Apollo Victoria Theatre is big and buzzy, so the atmosphere is electric, even before the curtain rises. Once the show starts, it’s nonstop spectacle—the set changes are jaw-dropping, the songs are memorable, and the story reimagines the Wizard of Oz from the witches’ perspective. Even teens who aren’t “musical” fans walk out raving about the drama, humor, and clever plot twists (and humming “Defying Gravity” for weeks). 

If you want to make the evening even more special, pair it with pre-show eats nearby—Tozi offers tasty Italian small plates and a cool vibe, or treat your group to shakes and burgers at Five Guys down the road. 

London Bicycle Tour by The London Bicycle Tour Company: Pedal Through the Past and Present 

Who says sightseeing has to be done on foot? A guided London bike tour puts the wind in your hair and brings you right into the middle of the city’s action. Start at Lambeth, gear up, and join a small group led by a lively, local guide who knows every backstreet, shortcut, and scenic stop along the way. 

On two wheels, you’ll cover more ground and actually feel connected to the neighborhoods around you. Routes often weave through music-filled South Bank, the leafy lanes of Westminster, and hidden pockets of East End graffiti where you’ll discover some of London’s coolest street art. Your guide points out filming locations, shares wild stories about kings and criminals, and makes sure the whole crew sticks together—perfect for teens who thrive on new discoveries and urban adventure. 

The pace is friendly; there are lots of stops for snacks, photos, and local insights. By tour’s end, you’ll feel like you’ve seen “real” London (and burned off enough calories to justify another round of dessert later). 

Chocolate Cocktail Club: Sweets Meet Sips in a Grown-Up Setting 

This is not your childhood chocolate shop. The Chocolate Cocktail Club (just off Farringdon) is a dreamy spot where desserts are reimagined as cool drinks—picture milk chocolate martinis, creamy mocktails, and creative concoctions that adults and over-16s can sample. It’s a fun, offbeat pick for older teens looking for something a little more sophisticated, especially if your group appreciates an Instagrammable moment. 

The setting is relaxed and quirky, with velvet sofas, neon signs, and chocolate in every possible form, from truffles to cakes. We love the playful “liquid desserts” menu and mischievous seasonal specials, from salted caramel cocktails to tiramisu-inspired mocktails. Pair it with gooey brownies or a slice of rich chocolate tart (yes, sharing is required). 

It’s a sweet, social hour in a unique spot—perfect for post-museum morale boosts or as a reward after a day conquered together in the city. 

 

Whether your teens are sports fans, adventure seekers, aspiring artists, night owls, music buffs, or top-tier snackers, London’s got attractions and activities guaranteed to turn your trip into travel legend. The city blends old-school cool with a modern, youthful edge—just the thing to impress even the hardest-to-please teenagers and keep the whole family entertained. 

 

Enjoyed this? Check out our comprehensive guide to Sea Life, and browse our London Eye deep dive. 

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Visiting London in January

January is London’s quietest month when it comes to visitor numbers, meaning there are usually some great flight and hotel deals to be had. What many people don’t realize is that London in January remains a hive of activity. Not only is it still possible to experience the Christmas festivities, but also to grab a bargain in the January sales and celebrate Spring Festival with the capital’s Chinese community. Weather in London in January   London in January is typified by short days and cloudy skies. Whilst milder than most other capitals in northern Europe, temperatures struggle to hit double figures, with top daytime temperatures reaching eight or nine degrees Celsius. Rain can be expected at almost any time, although significant rainfall is limited to about a third of the month. Snow in the heart of the capital is rare, and deep snow falls even rarer. If weather forecasts hint at the possibility of a sprinkling of snow, the best places to enjoy the spectacle are attractions on the city’s outskirts such as Richmond Park or the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. When it comes to staying warm, be sure to pack plenty of layers, a trustworthy pair of waterproof boots and some thick socks. Then you’ll be ready for anything the unruly British weather might throw at you whilst exploring all that London vaunts, from New Year partying to renowned museums. New Year in London   London’s New Year’s Eve celebrations are beamed live across the globe. Even so, there’s nothing quite like being there in person. The countdown begins long before the midnight fireworks light up the skies above the London Eye, with restaurants booking up way in advance. The fireworks are followed by a New Year's Day Parade. One of London’s newest traditions – having first taken place in the late 1980s – the spectacle starts at noon in upmarket Piccadilly before passing through Trafalgar Square on route to the Houses of Parliament. The 10,000 participants form an eclectic mix of dancers, musicians and performers from every continent, alongside the homegrown delights of London’s Pearly Kings and Queens. But that’s certainly not the end of the seasonal festivities. Christmas in London doesn’t conclude until Twelfth Night (Epiphany) on January 6. Only then are the Christmas lights switched off, window displays removed, and Christmas trees taken down. The day is marked on the banks of the Thames at Shakespeare’s Globe by the appearance of the Holly Man. A character from pre-Christian folklore akin to the Green Giant, he symbolizes new life and is welcomed by suitably-clad dignitaries before wassailing (blessing) the river and the city. Grab a bargain   As shopping destinations go, London in January has got to be up there with the best of them. By the start of the month the biggest sales of the year are already in full swing. Few stores want to miss out on the action, with Harrods and Selfridges among the well-known names slashing prices. Although the crowds tend to form at the start of this period, many of the best discounts are to be had when the sales are wrapping up in the middle of the month. They are swiftly followed by more shopping opportunities at the London Art Fair. Collating works from over 100 of London’s independent galleries, the fair has become one of the best places to scrutinize the capital’s up-and-coming artistic talent in close quarters. And whilst all the works of painting, sculpture and photography are for sale, browsers are also very welcome. Discover major cultural events   Not content with one lot of New Year’s celebrations, the end of January (or start of February) sees another moment of feasting, this time for Chinese New Year or Spring Festival. Shifting on an annual basis with the new moon, the largest commemorations outside of Asia begin with a street parade in Chinatown containing a series of finely-decorated floats. Firecrackers then echo across Trafalgar Square to launch a day-long festival of lion dances, musical performances and a plentiful supply of authentic street food. It’s a Spring Festival tradition to mark the new year from high-up, with The View from The Shard and ArcelorMittal Orbit the perfect way to do this. January’s other big event is Burns Night on January 25. Scotland’s unofficial national day, restaurants across the capital join in with honoring the poetry of Robert Burns, author of Auld Lang Syne. Expect Scottish salmon to make an appearance, alongside haggis, neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes) rounded off with a portion of whisky-dosed cranachan. Or you could forgo this raspberry and cream concoction and jump straight to a whisky tasting at one of London’s cocktail bars. Tick off a museum or two   January’s rainier days are just the excuse you’ve been looking for to jump headlong into London’s museums and galleries. Whatever your interests, you can pretty much guarantee there’s a collection somewhere in the capital that suits. For an overview of two million years of humanity look no further than the British Museum, whose riches include the Rosetta Stone and the Anglo-Saxon treasures of the Sutton Hoo ship burial. Less celebrated but still worth any amount of time you can dedicate to them are Kensington Palace and the Royal Greenwich Observatory. The palace in Hyde Park was the birthplace of Queen Victoria and is presently the home of Prince William and his young family. Meanwhile, the Royal Greenwich Observatory has been leading the way in mapping and timekeeping for four centuries. Pierced by the prime meridian, it’s one of the most photogenic places on Earth to have your photo taken with one leg in the eastern hemisphere and the other in the western. Whilst in the area, take a turn at some of Greenwich’s additional attractions, including the Cutty Sark, the last tea clipper sailing ship to be built before steam power took over. Capable of conducting the journey between Chinese ports and the southeast of England in a record-breaking three months, this elegant masted vessel kept Londoners’ obsession with tea fed for just eight years before swapping to a role in the wool trade. Don’t miss your chance to save with Go City There’s plenty to see and things to do in London in January. Many of the capital’s top attractions welcome Explorer Pass holders, allowing you to save on standard admission costs. So, if you’re considering January in London because of the deals available, don’t forget to add Go City to your list of budget-stretching buys.
Ian Packham
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2 Days in London - A Weekend in London Itinerary You'll Love

One of the world's most vibrant and thriving capital cities, London is a first-rate global town, offering up an intoxicating mix of history and modernity for tourists. London leads the world in areas of the arts, education, entertainment, commerce, fashion, media, transportation, and tourism. For centuries London has been home to some of the planet's most well-known faces and leaders, not to mention a popular monarchy recognized and adored the world over. When combined with hundreds of interesting sites and attractions, iconic landmarks, distinctive neighborhoods, a large airport and travel network, and a variety of hotels to explore, London is a top choice for any traveler. It is one of the most diverse cities in the world both culturally and physically. More than 300 languages are spoken in London by its melting pot of citizens. While the city possesses a rich past, with multiple World Heritage Sites and other renowned monuments to delight visitors. The city is especially exciting for first-time travelers, from the awe-inspiring the silhouette of Big Ben standing tall amidst the Houses of Parliament, to the swans gracefully swimming by in Hyde Park's ponds, to the majesty of Windsor Castle, Queen Elizabeth's royal residence. We've highlighted some of London's must-see attractions and activities that any first-time visitor can incorporate into an easy to follow 2 days in London weekend itinerary. This weekend itinerary includes: Enjoy a full English breakfast Big Bus London Sightseeing Tour St. Paul's Cathedral The Royal Oak Pub Coca-Cola London Eye James Bond Walking Tour We’ve also put together a 1 day and 3 day London itinerary, - for an amazing and relaxing vacation. Save on Attraction Admission Pick up a London Explorer Pass® and save off combined admission vs paying at the gate. Remember, this 2 days in London itinerary is just one of many ways to experience this amazing city. The London Explorer Pass® gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary, so you can choose from tons of top attractions and create a weekend trip tailored to your interests. Day 1Full English Breakfast By Jrv73 (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia CommonsGet an early start on day one with a hearty English breakfast. Filling up on this British specialty of eggs, bacon, sausages, roasted tomatoes, fried mushrooms, baked beans, black pudding, hash browns, toast and tea of coffee is a right of passage for any proper tourist to the United Kingdom. This belt-busting meal will fill you up for a long day of sightseeing and exploring. Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus London Tour The best way to get to know London and to help you navigate around the city for the next few days is to see it from the streets. Use your London Explorer Pass for a one-day Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. Riding the bus gives you a prime spot to see and learn about the city's history, culture, and way of life. You can choose when and where to hop on or off your bus tour at any point, taking in the delights of the capital at your own pace. An informative and entertaining tour guide will explain your journey throughout as you sit back and enjoy the bird's eye view from the comfort of an open top bus. With more than 50 stops included on the journey and buses running every five to 15 minutes, you can really explore as much or as little as you like. Check-off London's most famous sites from your must see list as your bus glides past Piccadilly Circus, otherwise known as London's Times Square, or ride across London Bridge that stands over the winding Thames River, or zip over to the gates of Buckingham Palace to see if the Queen is around. Your bus tour will also take you past Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park Corner, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. You won't want to forget your camera this day. Your Big Bus London Bus Tour also includes a free cruise ticket along the River Thames and a free guided walking tour. Your free river cruise, provides a narrated tour along the water from Westminster Pier to the Tower of London. While your walking tour follows the history of Royal London, from St. James Palace and Buckingham Palace, to a path highlighting some of the most famous locations from the Harry Potter books and movies. Getting In: Hop On Hop Off Big Bus London tickets are available on the London Explorer Pass. St. Paul's Cathedral St. Paul's Cathedral offers a golden opportunity to hop-off the bus for a glimpse at one of the London skyline's most recognized features. You can view the intricacies of the Cathedral floor and then observe the crypts and tombs that house some of England's most famous people, from the Duke of Wellington to Lord Admiral Nelson, along with memorials to Florence Nightingale, Lawrence of Arabia, and William Blake. You'll also be able to visit the three galleries: Whispering Gallery, Stone Gallery, and Golden Gallery, which are housed in St. Paul's dome with panoramic views over the city. If you prefer, scheduling a guided tour will also allow you to visit the Geometric Staircase, the Chapel of St. Michael and St. George and the Quire, which are usually closed to much of the public. Getting In: St. Paul's Cathedral tickets are available on the London Explorer Pass. The Royal Oak Pub Finish your first successful day in London with a meal at a traditional British neighborhood pub. The Royal Oak, located in the heart of the city, near to Westminster, was built in the 1800s and retains its historical influence on the area. Indulge in their English comfort food, such as a fish and chips, and wash it all down with a classically British pint of Young's beer. You can use your pass to redeem for a meal at the pub, before you get some rest for day two in London. Getting In: meal at The Royal Oak Pub is available on the London Explorer Pass. Day 2Coca-Cola London Eye Day two begins with sweeping views over the city of London from the top of the Coca-Cola London Eye observation wheel. Enter your glass-walled compartment and enjoy the stunning 360-degree vista, from 135-meters above. You'll be able to spot Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Royal Albert Hall, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, the Shard, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Rover Thames, among so many other landmarks. Onboard touch screens provide up to the minute information on what iconic sights you're passing and what to look out for. Once you're back on solid ground you can enjoy the Coca-Cola London Eye 4D Experience which provides a multi-sensory trip through the city. Getting In: Coca-Cola London Eye tickets are available on the London Explorer Pass. Sea Life London Aquarium It is a hop, skip and a jump from the London Eye to the Sea Life Aquarium at London Southbank. Here, you can travel to the depths of the oceans as you explore an underwater world of fish and other marine life, from sharks to penguins. You can even come face-to-face with a polar bear at the Frozen Planet exhibit. Getting In: SEA LIFE London Aquarium tickets are available on the London Explorer Pass. James Bond Walking Tour Cap off your two days in London itinerary with a tour set from the point of view of one of the city's most famous fictional characters: James Bond. Walk in the footsteps of 007 on this two-hour tour. You'll finally get to experience Westminster and the Houses of Parliament from the ground, as you pass by memorable scenes from the Bond films. Relive the excitement of For Your Eyes Only, Skyfall, Spectre, or Die Another Day as you visit the National Gallery, Whitehall, Mi5 and Mi6, and other shooting locations. Getting In: James Bond Walking Tour tickets are available on the London Explorer Pass. Let’s Recap So there’s a sample for a perfectly fun weekend in London – tours, museums, and much more. This itinerary for 2 days in London will introduce you to the best of city and give you a taste of what it’s like to experience this world-class tourist destination. Purchase a London Explorer Pass® and save on combined admission prices when you hop aboard an interactive GoCar Tour, use the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, explore the California Academy of Sciences, and visit the amazing SFMOMA.
Lindsay Eagan
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The Best Things to do Alone in London

We humans are social creatures by nature, craving the contact of others for the most part. However, there are times when all we want is to be with ourselves. And why not? Spending some quality alone time can be liberating. No longer are you beholden to the wishes of others. You can go where you want, when you want, and do whatever you want. So if you're alone and want to go adventuring in London, you’ve come to the right place? There's so much to do and see in the capital, so head out and see it all for yourself! These are the best things to do alone in London. Featuring: Museums Art Galleries The cinema Plays and musicals Lounge in a park Walking tours and more!   Those are just some of the many, many solo adventures you can take on in England’s capital. And hey, if the above picks don’t take your fancy, London has near limitless potential, so find whatever floats your boat and go have fun! Enjoyed this? Check out our Complete Guide to Visiting the London Eye or discover Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s London Passes.    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!    
Dom Bewley

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