Planning a family trip to the UK capital? Knowing how to get around London with kids can make the difference between a fun adventure and a stressful day. London is a busy, exciting city — and while it’s well connected, navigating it with children requires a bit of strategy. In this guide, we’ll share the best transport options, family-friendly routes, and insider tips to help you explore London smoothly and stress-free.
London has an excellent public transport system that’s accessible, safe, and easy to use. Whether you’re travelling with toddlers or teenagers, getting around the city is straightforward. Here’s a breakdown of the key options:
The London Underground (the Tube) is one of the fastest and easiest ways to get around the city. However, if you’re travelling with a pram or wheelchair, it’s worth planning ahead, as not every station has step-free access or lifts.
For most visitors, there’s no need to buy an Oyster Card anymore. Simply tap in and out using the same contactless bank card or your phone with Apple Pay or Google Pay. Transport for London automatically calculates the cheapest fare and applies a daily fare cap, meaning you’ll never pay more than the maximum daily limit for the zones you’ve travelled in, as long as you use the same card or device throughout the day.
An Oyster Card is still a good option if you don’t have a contactless payment method, if you’re travelling with children who qualify for discounted fares, or if you’re eligible for Railcard discounts.
When getting around London with kids, be sure to read our complete guide to using the Tube, and don’t forget to download our free London Tube map to help plan your journey.
London’s famous red double-decker buses are one of the best ways to explore the city, especially if you’re travelling as a family. They’re fully accessible, most routes are pram-friendly, and sitting on the upper deck offers fantastic views of London’s landmarks along the way.
Just like the Tube, you can pay using the same contactless bank card or your phone with Apple Pay or Google Pay. London buses are cash-free, and Transport for London automatically applies the Hopper fare, allowing unlimited bus and tram journeys within one hour of your first tap. These journeys also count towards your daily fare cap.
I always recommend taking a bus on your first day in London. It’s a relaxed and affordable way to get your bearings, enjoy the city’s atmosphere, and understand the distances between major attractions. Once you’ve familiarised yourself with the city, you can combine buses with the Tube or explore many areas on foot.
The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) is an excellent way to explore East London, including areas such as Canary Wharf, Greenwich, and London City Airport. As a driverless train, it’s always a hit with children—if you’re lucky, they might even get to sit at the front and enjoy the view from the driver’s seat.
The DLR is also one of London’s most accessible transport options. All stations offer step-free access, making it ideal for families with prams, wheelchair users, or anyone with limited mobility. You can pay using the same contactless bank card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or an Oyster Card, and all journeys count towards your daily fare cap.
If you’d like to learn more, check out our complete guide to the DLR, where you’ll find routes, top attractions, and tips for making the most of your journey.
Good to know: Children under 11 travel free on the DLR, Tube, London Overground, Elizabeth line, and most TfL services when accompanied by a fare-paying adult. On buses and trams, they can travel free at any time without needing a ticket.
If you’re seeking a relaxing way to explore London, a ferry trip along the River Thames is an excellent choice. This scenic journey not only provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets but also offers a unique perspective of some of London’s most iconic landmarks. Whether you’re travelling with family, friends, or simply in search of a serene experience, a ferry ride is sure to enhance your visit.
In addition to being a relaxing mode of transport, the ferry provides stunning views of the river and important landmarks, such as the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. This delightful experience is perfect for anyone looking to avoid the crowds of traditional public transport while enjoying a picturesque journey through the heart of the city.
Not only is it a stress-free way to travel, but the views are spectacular, passing by famous landmarks such as the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. Here are some top picks for river trips:
Losing sight of your child in a busy city like London can be worrying, but try to stay calm. In most cases, children are found quickly and are usually only a short distance away.
