Planning a family trip to London? You’re in for a treat! The bustling capital of the United Kingdom is not only a treasure trove of history and culture but also a playground for families seeking adventure and comfort. To ensure your stay is nothing short of magical, we’ve curated a list of the 15 best family-friendly hotels in London that cater to guests of all ages. From spacious family rooms to exciting kids’ clubs, these accommodations go above and beyond to make your family vacation unforgettable.
What Makes a Hotel Family-Friendly?
Before we dive into our top picks, let’s explore the key features that make a hotel truly family-friendly:
- Spacious rooms or suites that can comfortably accommodate families
- Child-friendly amenities such as cribs, high chairs, and baby-proofing kits
- Kids’ clubs or supervised activities for children
- Family-oriented dining options with children’s menus
- Proximity to family attractions and public transportation
- Swimming pools or play areas for children
- Babysitting services or childcare options
- Family-friendly packages or promotions
- Welcoming and understanding staff
Now, let’s explore the top 15 family-friendly hotels in London that tick all these boxes and more!
1. The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences
Located in the heart of Mayfair, The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences is a luxurious yet family-friendly option that caters to guests of all ages.
Key Features:
- Spacious family rooms and apartments with kitchenettes
- Children’s concierge service
- Complimentary kids’ snacks and milkshakes
- Family-friendly afternoon tea
- Kids’ goodie bags on arrival
- Proximity to Green Park and Buckingham Palace
The Athenaeum goes above and beyond to ensure that families feel at home. Their dedicated children’s concierge can arrange everything from kite-flying sessions in nearby Green Park to age-appropriate toys and books for your little ones. The apartments are particularly suitable for families, offering ample space and the convenience of in-room cooking facilities.
2. The Royal Garden Hotel
Overlooking Kensington Gardens, The Royal Garden Hotel offers a perfect blend of luxury and family-friendly amenities.
Key Features:
- Family Adventure package with scooters and picnic baskets
- In-room teepees for children
- Kids’ bathrobes and slippers
- Complimentary meals for children under 12
- Proximity to Kensington Palace and Hyde Park
The Royal Garden Hotel’s Family Adventure package is a hit among guests, providing scooters for exploring nearby parks and a gourmet picnic basket for outdoor lunches. The in-room teepees add a touch of magic to children’s stay, creating a cozy hideaway within the comfort of your room.
3. The Rubens at the Palace
Situated opposite Buckingham Palace, The Rubens at the Palace offers a regal experience for families visiting London.
Key Features:
- Director of Fun and Adventure for children
- Kids’ afternoon tea with little prince and princess outfits
- Family rooms with bunk beds
- Complimentary kids’ meals
- Proximity to royal attractions
The Rubens at the Palace takes family-friendly service to the next level with their Director of Fun and Adventure, who can arrange exciting activities and experiences for children. The hotel’s themed afternoon tea is a particular highlight, allowing kids to dress up as little royals while enjoying child-friendly treats.
4. Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London
For families seeking a central location with stunning views, the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London is an excellent choice.
Key Features:
- Family rooms and suites with kitchenettes
- Indoor pool
- Kids’ menu at all restaurants
- Family-friendly movie nights
- Walking distance to London Eye and SEA LIFE Centre
The Park Plaza Westminster Bridge offers spacious family rooms and suites, many with breathtaking views of iconic London landmarks. The hotel’s indoor pool is a hit with children, while the family-friendly movie nights provide entertainment after a day of sightseeing.
5. The Landmark London
This grand Victorian-era hotel combines luxury with family-friendly amenities in the heart of Marylebone.
Key Features:
- Family rooms and interconnecting options
- Indoor swimming pool
- Children’s afternoon tea
- Babysitting services
- Proximity to Madame Tussauds and Regent’s Park
The Landmark London’s spacious rooms and suites provide ample space for families, while the indoor pool offers year-round swimming fun. The hotel’s children’s afternoon tea is a delightful experience, featuring kid-friendly sandwiches, cakes, and mocktails.
6. St. Ermin’s Hotel, Autograph Collection
This historic hotel near St. James’s Park offers a unique family experience with its focus on nature and espionage.
Key Features:
- Family rooms with bunk beds
- Budding Bonds kids’ spy program
- Rooftop bee hotel and honey tasting
- Kids’ welcome packs
- Proximity to Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey
St. Ermin’s Hotel stands out with its Budding Bonds program, which turns children into mini spies with code-breaking challenges and secret missions. The hotel’s rooftop bee hotel and honey tasting sessions offer an educational experience for the whole family.
7. Novotel London Blackfriars
For families seeking modern amenities and a convenient location, the Novotel London Blackfriars is an excellent choice.
Key Features:
- Family rooms with sofa beds
- Indoor swimming pool
- Interactive gaming area for children
- Kids stay and eat free
- Walking distance to Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe
The Novotel London Blackfriars offers a range of family-friendly amenities, including an indoor pool and an interactive gaming area. The hotel’s policy of kids staying and eating for free makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious families.
8. The Resident Covent Garden
Located in the heart of London’s theater district, The Resident Covent Garden offers a boutique family experience.
Key Features:
- Family rooms with mini-kitchens
- Complimentary snacks and drinks
- In-room tablets with local area guides
- Family-friendly concierge services
- Walking distance to Covent Garden and the London Transport Museum
The Resident Covent Garden’s rooms feature mini-kitchens, perfect for preparing quick meals or snacks for picky eaters. The hotel’s concierge can arrange family-friendly theater tickets and restaurant bookings in the vibrant Covent Garden area.
9. London Marriott Hotel County Hall
Offering stunning views of the Thames and the Houses of Parliament, the London Marriott Hotel County Hall is a luxurious family option.
Key Features:
- Family rooms and suites with river views
- Indoor pool
- Kids’ welcome gifts
- Family-friendly dining options
- Adjacent to the London Eye and SEA LIFE Centre
The London Marriott Hotel County Hall’s prime location makes it easy for families to explore top attractions. The hotel’s indoor pool and special welcome gifts for children ensure a memorable stay for young guests.
10. The Clermont, Charing Cross
This historic hotel near Trafalgar Square offers a blend of Victorian charm and modern family amenities.
Key Features:
- Family rooms with extra beds
- Kids’ afternoon tea
- Family-friendly concierge services
- Complimentary smartphone with unlimited data
- Walking distance to Covent Garden and the National Gallery
The Clermont, Charing Cross offers spacious family rooms in a prime central location. The hotel’s kids’ afternoon tea and family-friendly concierge services ensure that both parents and children have a delightful stay.
11. Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences
For families seeking a luxurious home-away-from-home experience, Taj 51 Buckingham Gate is the perfect choice.
Key Features:
- Spacious suites with full kitchens
- Kids@Taj program with special amenities
- Family cooking classes
- Children’s afternoon tea
- Walking distance to Buckingham Palace and St. James’s Park
Taj 51 Buckingham Gate offers expansive suites that feel like private apartments. The Kids@Taj program provides young guests with special amenities, while family cooking classes offer a fun bonding experience.
12. The Montague on the Gardens
This charming boutique hotel near the British Museum offers a cozy family retreat in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Key Features:
- Family rooms and interconnecting options
- Children’s afternoon tea
- Complimentary ice cream for kids
- In-room tepees and camping experiences
- Proximity to the British Museum and Covent Garden
The Montague on the Gardens creates a magical experience for children with in-room tepees and “camping” experiences. The hotel’s proximity to the British Museum makes it an ideal base for families interested in history and culture.
13. Hilton London Bankside
This modern hotel in the vibrant Bankside area offers excellent family amenities and easy access to attractions.
Key Features:
- Family rooms and suites
- Indoor swimming pool
- Kids’ menu at the restaurant
- Family packages with attraction tickets
- Walking distance to Tate Modern and Borough Market
The Hilton London Bankside offers spacious family rooms and a range of amenities to keep children entertained. The hotel’s family packages, which include tickets to popular attractions, provide excellent value for money.
14. The Ampersand Hotel
This boutique hotel in South Kensington combines Victorian charm with family-friendly luxury.
Key Features:
- Family rooms with extra beds and interconnecting options
- Science-themed afternoon tea
- Children’s play area
- Complimentary kids’ toiletries
- Proximity to Natural History Museum and Science Museum
The Ampersand Hotel’s science-themed afternoon tea is a hit with families, offering edible experiments and space-themed treats. The hotel’s location near London’s top museums makes it perfect for curious young minds.
15. Citadines Trafalgar Square London
For families seeking the convenience of apartment-style living, Citadines Trafalgar Square London is an excellent choice.
Key Features:
- Apartments with fully-equipped kitchens
- Family game room
- Complimentary smartphone with unlimited data
- Grocery delivery service
- Walking distance to Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery
Citadines Trafalgar Square London offers the space and convenience of apartment living with the services of a hotel. The fully-equipped kitchens and grocery delivery service make it easy for families to prepare meals, while the central location allows for easy exploration of London’s top sights.
FAQ
What are the best areas in London for families to stay?
The best areas for families to stay in London depend on your interests and budget. Some popular family-friendly areas include:
1. South Kensington: Close to museums and Hyde Park
2. Westminster: Near major attractions like Big Ben and the London Eye
3. Covent Garden: Central location with plenty of entertainment options
4. Bankside: Close to Tate Modern and Borough Market
5. Marylebone: Quieter area with easy access to Regent’s Park
Do London hotels charge extra for children?
Policies vary by hotel, but many family-friendly hotels in London offer free stays for children under a certain age when sharing a room with parents. Some hotels also offer free meals for children. Always check the hotel’s policy when booking.
What amenities should I look for in a family-friendly hotel in London?
Key amenities to consider include:
1. Spacious rooms or suites
2. Kitchenettes or full kitchens
3. Indoor swimming pools
4. Kids’ clubs or play areas
5. Family-friendly dining options
6. Proximity to attractions and public transportation
Are there any hotels in London with babysitting services?
Yes, many luxury and family-friendly hotels in London offer babysitting services. Some hotels have in-house childcare staff, while others can arrange for trusted local babysitters. Always book these services in advance.
Can I request cribs or extra beds for my children?
Most family-friendly hotels in London provide cribs or extra beds upon request, often free of charge for younger children. It’s best to request these when making your reservation to ensure availability.
Are there hotels in London with connecting rooms for families?
Yes, many hotels offer connecting or adjoining rooms for families. This option provides more space and privacy while keeping the family close together. Be sure to request connecting rooms when booking, as availability may be limited.
Do London hotels offer special packages for families?
Many hotels in London offer family packages that may include perks such as:
1. Discounted rates for second rooms
2. Free meals for children
3. Tickets to local attractions
4. Welcome gifts for kids
5. Late check-out options
Check the hotel’s website or contact them directly to inquire about family packages.
How can I find hotels near kid-friendly attractions in London?
When searching for hotels, consider proximity to popular family attractions such as:
- Natural History Museum and Science Museum
- London Eye and SEA LIFE Centre
- Tower of London
- Buckingham Palace
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
Use mapping tools to visualize hotel locations in relation to these attractions.
Are there any hotels in London with themed rooms for children?
Yes, some hotels in London offer themed rooms or experiences for children. For example:
- St. Ermin’s Hotel offers a spy-themed program
- The Ampersand Hotel has science-themed rooms
- The Rubens at the Palace offers royal-themed experiences
Check hotel websites or contact them directly to inquire about themed options for children.
What should I consider when choosing a family-friendly hotel in London?
When selecting a family-friendly hotel in London, consider the following:
- Room size and configuration
- Location and proximity to attractions
- Family-friendly amenities and services
- Dining options for children
- Budget and value for money
- Reviews from other families
- Transportation options nearby
By considering these factors, you can find the perfect hotel for your family’s London adventure.
Conclusion
London offers a wealth of family-friendly accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. From luxury hotels with dedicated kids’ concierges to apartment-style lodgings with home-like amenities, there’s something for every family in the British capital. When choosing your family’s home base in London, consider factors such as location, room size, amenities, and proximity to attractions that interest your children.
Remember that many hotels offer special family packages or promotions, so be sure to inquire about these when booking. With the right hotel as your base, you’ll be well-equipped to create lasting memories as you explore the wonders of London together as a family.
Whether you’re looking forward to afternoon tea with a royal twist, embarking on spy missions, or simply relaxing in a spacious suite after a day of sightseeing, these 15 family-friendly hotels in London promise comfort, convenience, and a touch of magic for guests of all ages. So pack your bags, gather the family, and get ready for an unforgettable London adventure!
