The Ultimate Family Guide To London

There’s no shortage of things to do in London for families, from must-see exhibitions to renowned zoos and more. To help you make the most of your family holiday in London, we’ve rounded up our favourite spots that will keep the kids (and adults) entertained all day long.

Get Wild at London Zoo

Tucked within the leafy surrounds of Regent’s Park, London Zoo is a must for families. Home to hundreds of species and world-class exhibits, it’s as fascinating as it is iconic and all just moments from central London. Arrive early to skip the crowds, then wander along Regent’s Canal for a peaceful post-zoo stroll.

Sing Along To Paddington: The Musical 

Paddington: The Musical brings the nation’s favourite bear to life on stage at the Savoy Theatre. With catchy songs, clever storytelling and plenty of Paddington’s signature charm, it’s a feel-good show for all ages. A heart-warming family outing right in the heart of London’s West End.

See Movie Magic at Harry Potter World

A must for any family of witches and wizards, The Making of Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London takes you behind the scenes of the iconic films. Explore the Great Hall, wander through Diagon Alley, and see the magic come to life with real sets, costumes and special effects. Kids can hop on a broomstick, sip Butterbeer, and discover how their favourite scenes were made. Pure magic from start to finish.

Discover Wonders at The Natural History Museum

A trip to London with kids isn’t complete without a visit to the Natural History Museum. Housed in one of the city’s most breathtaking buildings, it’s a wonderland of discovery, from towering dinosaur skeletons to glittering gemstones and interactive science zones. It’s educational, awe-inspiring, and completely free.

Venture into Shrek’s Adventure

Step into the world of fairy tales at Shrek’s Adventure London. This interactive experience whisks families through the Kingdom of Far Far Away with live shows and plenty of familiar faces. Perfect for kids (and nostalgic grown-ups). Even better? It’s just a short stroll from Marlin Waterloo, making it the ideal stop before or after your city adventures.

Relax at Kew Gardens

Escape the city buzz and step into the lush oasis of Kew Gardens. Spanning 300 acres of stunning landscapes, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a playground for little explorers and a breath of fresh air for parents. Wander through towering glasshouses, discover treetop walkways, and let the kids run wild in the Children’s Garden.

Get Creative at The Tate

Art made fun and family-friendly. Tate Modern transforms the idea of a gallery visit with vibrant installations, hands-on workshops, and creative spaces designed just for kids. Little ones can make their own masterpieces, explore the interactive family zones, or join in on one of the gallery’s creative sessions. Set inside a striking riverside power station, it’s an inspiring mix of culture and play.

Admire Tower Bridge in Action

One of London’s most iconic sights, Tower Bridge is a hit with families. Step inside to explore the glass-floored walkways, peek into the Victorian engine rooms, and watch the bridge lift for passing boats. Best of all, Marlin Aldgate Tower Bridge is just a short stroll away.

Prance Around Richmond Park

A wild escape just moments from the city, Richmond Park is one of London’s most magical spots for families. Spanning over 2,500 acres, it’s home to hundreds of free-roaming red and fallow deer. Pack a picnic, bring binoculars, and enjoy a peaceful walk through wide-open meadows and woodland trails.

Soar Through the Air at Gripped London

For a day packed with adrenaline, Gripped London in Hounslow is a family favourite. This outdoor adventure park is all about high ropes, zip lines, speed slides and free-fall jumps. With different levels for all ages, it’s a great way to get everyone outdoors and active. After all that adventure, refuel at the café or unwind with a picnic on the grass. A fun, energy-burning day out just a short drive from central London.

Enjoy a family holiday in London with Marlin Apartments

Our serviced apartments are designed with families in mind — offering the comfort, space, and flexibility that city hotels can’t match. Whether you’re a family of three or travelling with the whole crew, Marlin’s London locations make your London family getaway effortless.

For smaller families, our One Bedroom Apartments feature a roomy open-plan living area complete with a sofa bed, perfect for two adults and up to two children.

Need a little more space? Our Two Bedroom Apartments provide two separate bedrooms, with the option for twin beds in one room, creating a true home-from-home for your short family break. Many of these apartments also include a sofa bed, comfortably sleeping up to two adults and four children.

For larger families, we offer specialist family apartments in Canary Wharf with two sofa beds, ideal for groups of up to two adults and six children.

If you’re after something a little more luxurious, our Waterloo Aparthotel offers Deluxe Studios that sleep two adults and two children, with select apartments featuring interconnecting rooms that can accommodate up to six.

Check availability for our family apartments in London

Why is Marlin the perfect choice for your short UK family break?

Our family-friendly apartments are much bigger than many hotel rooms in the city, making them the ideal choice for a family break. Our biggest apartment at our Canary Wharf location can sleep up to 9 people.

Marlin apartments in London have been thoughtfully designed to keep everyone happy during a short city break. With fully equipped, full-sized kitchens in all our serviced apartments, you’ll be able to serve up delicious, home-cooked family meals instead of dining out every night. With the added privacy of separate bedrooms, you can treat your apartment just like home.

What’s more, the central, convenient location of our apartments means you’ll save on transport costs. You’ll easily be able to tick any must-see attractions off the list during your family break in London.

When you choose to stay with Marlin, you’re guaranteed peace of mind. All our serviced apartments in London have a 24-hour concierge service and secure key-fob entry to each property, ensuring your safety and that of your belongings while you’re staying with us. If you have any special requests for your stay, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

You’ll be within easy reach of many more attractions and family-friendly restaurants from our centrally located apartments, making them ideal for your family break in London.