One of the world's oldest zoos, the ZSL London Zoo is located in Regent Park and boasts over 12,000 animals. This zoo is home to wild animals like gorillas, giraffes, penguins and monkeys right in the center of London. As of 2010, a butterfly exhibit and a living rainforest with marmosets and tamarins are on display. Children under 3 are free.
The former home of King Henry VIII, this palace was built in the 1500s. Children will see history come to life with the Tudor King. Hampton Court Palace reenacts the way of life during the time of King Henry VIII with the King's wedding to his sixth wife, an active kitchen, and interaction with members of the court. Set on 60 acres of gardens, the topiary maze and Great Vine will entertain the children.
If you and your family prefer nature in its natural habitat, the London Wetland Centre is the perfect window to observe wildlife. With over 105 acres of lakes, ponds and marshes, wildlife like bitterns, water voles, and kingfishers congregate here. The London Wetland Centre is stroller and wheel-chair friendly and offers guided tours.
London's rainy days make outdoor activities limited for a family. Kids can take a break at Namco Station, London's largest amusement arcade. Located on the South Bank across the bridge from the House of Parliament, Namco Station offers games like cyber-skiing and cyber-skateboarding, as well as traditional arcade games like bumper cars. Namco Station is open daily, except for Christmas.
Kids can take a boat trip down the River Thames while viewing the House of Parliament, The London Eye, and London Bridge on the banks. Enjoy a light lunch on some boat trips or just go for the ride. Commentary from the boat's attendants can be entertaining and enlightening.
London is full of museums, including the Natural Museum and The Tower of London. Kids may like to see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, London Eye or the Peter Pan statue in Kensington Gardens.
