Victoria Coach Station is the gateway to London for millions of travelers every year. This is where many of the city's long-distance buses, or coaches to use the British term, operate, making it an important link in the British capital's transportation network. If you're arriving in London by bus, there's a very good chance you're going to end up here.
And that's a good thing since Victoria Coach Station is located right in the heart of London, surprisingly close to many of the city's top attractions. That includes some of its best family activities. Drop off your things at a Victoria Coach Station luggage storage and try some of these kid-friendly activities on your next trip to London.
London Eye
It's one of the city's most iconic attractions and offers unparalleled views of the city from its many glass capsules. It’s also an excellent way to get your bearings in London, as the panoramic view is sure to give you a better understanding of the layout of London. The biggest Ferris wheel in Europe is always a hit with kids and adults alike.
You'll get incredible photos during your 'flight,' and the wheel spins at enough of a leisurely pace that this is suitable for kids of all ages as well as adults. Just be warned that this popular attraction can get busy, so it's a good idea, if possible, to book your trip in advance.
SEA LIFE London Aquarium
Sea Life London Aquarium is located right next to the London Eye, making it easy to combine the two activities into a one-day trip. This aquarium is home to more than 400 species of aquatic life from around the world, including sharks, rays, and other larger fish. Kids will be able to learn about sea creatures up close, with interactive exhibits and displays throughout the attraction. Touch tanks are also a popular feature here for kids who want to get an even closer look at some of their favorite creatures.
The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is a uniquely British tradition, and it's one that kids will love seeing in person. Every day, outside the palace gates, visitors can watch as the King's Foot Guards march through to take their posts as part of an age-old ceremony. Not only is it fun to watch this historic event unfold, but the spectacle surrounding it makes for some fantastic photos. The Changing of the Guard takes place several times each week between April and July, with daily events during August. Check out the official website for full details on dates and times.
Hamleys Toy Shop
No trip to London with kids would be complete without a visit to Hamleys Toy Shop. Located across from the major shopping area of Regent Street, this legendary store has been in operation since 1760, making it one of the oldest and most beloved toy shops in the world. Kids will love exploring its seven stories filled with all sorts of toys and games. From dolls to Lego sets and model trains, there's something for every child here. And if you're feeling particularly generous, you can always bring home a few souvenirs!
Hyde Park
London's largest green space, Hyde Park is the perfect place for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll through its many gardens and pathways. During the warmer months, kids can take advantage of the park's open-air swimming pools, while in the winter, they'll be able to go ice skating on its iconic Serpentine lake. Be sure to check out the Diana Memorial Playground, which was designed especially with younger visitors in mind.
Battersea Park
Just across the river, you'll find another of London's great parks for kids to run around and burn off some energy. Battersea Park is a great place to spend the afternoon, with attractions like an adventure playground, pedal boats, and even a miniature railway. There's also plenty of open space for running around and picnicking. And on Sundays, there's a popular farmer's market that sells all sorts of local produce.
Science Museum
The Science Museum in South Kensington is a great spot for families to learn about science and technology. It's full of interactive exhibits that kids can explore, from the interactive Energy Hall to the roving robots in the Mascot Hall. The museum also hosts regular workshops, where kids can take part in activities such as building their own rockets or learning about physics. There's even an IMAX theatre, which features educational films on a giant screen.
The London Dungeon
The London Dungeon is a great attraction for older kids who want to learn about the city's darker history. Visitors can explore several themed exhibits and shows, including a trip into Victorian London and a ride through the plague-ridden streets of 17th-century England. There are plenty of interactive elements, too, such as live actors in 19th-century costumes and interactive games along the way.
This attraction might be a little too scary for younger kids, but all the children will get a real kick out of it. Plus they'll learn a lot about the history of London in an extremely entertaining way.
Theater Performances
Finally, no family trip to London would be complete without seeing at least one performance of theater. With its many theaters, there's something for everyone here – from musicals to classic plays and comedy shows. Many venues offer special discounts on tickets for children or families, so it's worth checking out what's on before you visit. With so much to see and do, your kids won't want to leave!
Conclusion
Visiting Victoria Coach Station with children is sure to be a fun and educational experience. From the Changing of the Guard ceremony to interactive museums and open-air markets, there are plenty of kid-friendly activities in this area that everyone can enjoy. So make sure you stop by and check out what this historic corner of London has to offer.
what fun!
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