When it comes to planning a family vacation to London, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With so many amazing neighborhoods and accommodations to choose from, it can be overwhelming to narrow down the options. But, finding the right place to stay can make all the difference in ensuring a fun and stress-free trip for the whole family.
Overview
London is a city that offers something for everyone, from world-class museums and landmarks to outdoor spaces and kid-friendly attractions. However, with so much to see and do, it’s essential to choose a location that suits your family’s needs and preferences. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to stay in London for families, taking into account factors such as proximity to popular attractions, safety, amenities, and overall atmosphere.
What to Expect
In the following sections, we’ll delve into the top family-friendly neighborhoods and accommodations in London, including budget-friendly options, luxury hotels, and self-catering apartments. We’ll also provide insider tips and recommendations for making the most of your family’s London adventure.
Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, tweens, or teenagers, we’ve got you covered. Our guide is designed to help you find the perfect place to stay in London, so you can focus on creating unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
Best Places to Stay in London for Families
London is a fantastic destination for a family vacation, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and endless entertainment options. However, finding the right place to stay can be overwhelming, especially when traveling with kids. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay in London for families, considering factors such as location, amenities, and kid-friendly activities.
Central London
Staying in central London can be convenient for families, with many iconic landmarks and attractions within walking distance. Here are some top picks for central London:
- The Westbury Mayfair: This luxurious hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, a kid-friendly atmosphere, and a prime location near Hyde Park and Oxford Street.
- The Langham London: This 5-star hotel features elegant rooms, a relaxing spa, and a children’s program with activities and amenities tailored for kids.
- The Grosvenor Hotel London: Located in the heart of Victoria, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a kid-friendly restaurant serving breakfast and afternoon tea.
South Bank and Waterloo
The South Bank and Waterloo areas offer a more laid-back atmosphere, with plenty of family-friendly attractions and activities: (See Also: Best Places To Stay North Cascades National Park)
- Novotel London City South: This modern hotel features spacious rooms, a fitness center, and a kid-friendly restaurant, with the South Bank and Borough Market nearby.
- Park Plaza London Waterloo: This 4-star hotel offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving international cuisine, with the London Eye and Sea Life Aquarium nearby.
- Hilton London Bankside: This stylish hotel features modern rooms, a fitness center, and a kid-friendly restaurant, with the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe nearby.
Covent Garden and Holborn
Covent Garden and Holborn offer a lively atmosphere, with plenty of street performers, restaurants, and shops:
- One Aldwych: This boutique hotel features stylish rooms, a fitness center, and a kid-friendly restaurant, with Covent Garden and the West End nearby.
- The Hoxton, Holborn: This trendy hotel offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving international cuisine, with the British Museum nearby.
- Rosewood London: This luxurious hotel features elegant rooms, a spa, and a kid-friendly atmosphere, with Covent Garden and the Royal Opera House nearby.
Outer London
If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere and lower prices, consider staying in outer London:
- Novotel London Wembley: This modern hotel features spacious rooms, a fitness center, and a kid-friendly restaurant, with Wembley Stadium and the London Designer Outlet nearby.
- Holiday Inn London Brentford Lock: This 4-star hotel offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving international cuisine, with the River Thames and Brentford Lock nearby.
- Hotel Xenia: This boutique hotel features stylish rooms, a fitness center, and a kid-friendly atmosphere, with the Richmond Park and the River Thames nearby.
Apartments and Self-Catering Options
If you prefer more space and flexibility, consider staying in an apartment or self-catering accommodation:
- SACO London Covent Garden: These stylish apartments offer fully equipped kitchens, comfortable living areas, and a prime location in Covent Garden.
- Citadines Apart’hotel London Covent Garden: These modern apartments feature fully equipped kitchens, comfortable bedrooms, and a convenient location near Covent Garden and the West End.
- Native Apartments London Bridge: These stylish apartments offer fully equipped kitchens, comfortable living areas, and a prime location near London Bridge and the Shard.
Things to Consider
When choosing a place to stay in London for your family, consider the following factors:
- Location: Look for hotels or apartments near public transportation links, attractions, and amenities.
- Amenities: Consider hotels or apartments with kid-friendly amenities, such as pools, game rooms, or children’s programs.
- Space: If you have a larger family or prefer more space, consider apartments or self-catering options.
- Budget: Set a budget and stick to it, considering factors such as room rates, food, and transportation costs.
- Reviews: Read reviews from other families to get a sense of the hotel or apartment’s kid-friendliness and overall quality.
Top Tips for Families Visiting London
Here are some top tips for families visiting London: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Cabos San Lucas)
- Buy a Visitor Oyster Card: This card provides discounts and convenience for public transportation.
- Plan Ahead: Book attractions and restaurants in advance to avoid long queues and ensure availability.
- Take Breaks: London can be overwhelming, so take regular breaks to rest and recharge.
- Explore Beyond the City: Consider visiting nearby attractions, such as Hampton Court Palace or Windsor Castle, for a change of pace.
- Pack Wisely: Bring comfortable shoes, layers for changing weather, and a portable charger for your devices.
Conclusion
London is a fantastic destination for families, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and endless entertainment options. By considering factors such as location, amenities, and budget, you can find the perfect place to stay for your family. Whether you prefer a luxurious hotel, a self-catering apartment, or a budget-friendly option, there’s something for everyone in London. Remember to plan ahead, take breaks, and explore beyond the city to make the most of your family vacation.
| Area | Hotel/Apartment | Amenities | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central London | The Westbury Mayfair | Spacious rooms, kid-friendly atmosphere, prime location | £200-£500 per night |
| South Bank and Waterloo | Novotel London City South | Spacious rooms, fitness center, kid-friendly restaurant | £150-£300 per night |
| Covent Garden and Holborn | One Aldwych | Stylish rooms, fitness center, kid-friendly restaurant | £200-£400 per night |
| Outer London | Novotel London Wembley | Spacious rooms, fitness center, kid-friendly restaurant | £100-£250 per night |
| Apartments | SACO London Covent Garden | Fully equipped kitchens, comfortable living areas, prime location | £150-£300 per night |
Recap:
- Central London offers luxurious hotels with prime locations and kid-friendly amenities.
- South Bank and Waterloo provide a more laid-back atmosphere with modern hotels and apartments.
- Covent Garden and Holborn offer a lively atmosphere with stylish hotels and apartments.
- Outer London provides a more relaxed atmosphere with lower prices and self-catering options.
- Apartments and self-catering options offer more space and flexibility for families.
- Consider factors such as location, amenities, budget, and reviews when choosing a place to stay.
- Plan ahead, take breaks, and explore beyond the city to make the most of your family vacation in London.
By following these tips and considering the best places to stay in London for families, you can create a memorable and enjoyable vacation for your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best areas to stay in London for families with young children?
Some of the best areas to stay in London for families with young children include Kensington, Notting Hill, and Hampstead. These areas offer a range of family-friendly amenities, such as parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly restaurants. They are also relatively safe and have a more suburban feel, making them ideal for families.
Are there any family-friendly hotels in London that offer babysitting services?
Yes, many family-friendly hotels in London offer babysitting services or can recommend reputable babysitting agencies. Some popular options include The Ritz London, The Dorchester, and The Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane. It’s always best to check with the hotel directly before booking to confirm their babysitting services and policies.
What are some budget-friendly accommodation options for families in London?
There are many budget-friendly accommodation options for families in London, including apartments, hostels, and guesthouses. Some popular options include the Premier Inn chain, which offers family-friendly rooms at an affordable price, and the Meininger London hotel, which has a range of family rooms and apartments. You can also consider staying in a self-catering apartment or house, which can often be more cost-effective for families. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Vegas With Kids)
Are there any family-friendly serviced apartments in London that can accommodate large families?
Yes, there are many family-friendly serviced apartments in London that can accommodate large families. Some popular options include the Citadines Apart’hotel chain, which has several locations throughout London and offers apartments that can sleep up to 6 people. Another option is the Dolphin Square Serviced Apartments, which has a range of apartments that can accommodate families of up to 8 people.
What are some tips for booking a family-friendly hotel room in London?
When booking a family-friendly hotel room in London, be sure to check the hotel’s policy on extra beds and cots, as well as their amenities for children, such as kids’ clubs and baby-sitting services. It’s also a good idea to book a room with a separate living area or a suite, which can provide more space for your family. Additionally, consider booking a hotel that offers a breakfast buffet, which can be a convenient and cost-effective option for families.