Unmissable things to do in London with teens
- 🎨 Design Museum – best for design lovers
- 🎭 Beetlejuice – best for musical fans
- 🪄 Warner Bros. Studio Tour – best for magical immersion
- 👻 London Dungeon – best for spooky thrills
- 🍓 Borough Market – best for foodies
London is the third most visited city in the world, with more than 22.7 million international arrivals in 2025, according to Euromonitor International. As the official guide to London, we’re always on the lookout for the best family-friendly activities, from big-hitting attractions to cultural delights.
Our team of experts carefully curate recommendations across museums, restaurants, attractions and theatre experiences. In this guide, we highlight the top things to do in London with teenagers, sharing insider tips, essential travel advice and standout features to ensure your family enjoys an unforgettable London adventure.
How we chose the best things to do in London for teenagers
Every recommendation on this list has been carefully curated by Visit London’s expert team of London-based editors. Our selection process combines first-hand experience, guest reviews and feedback from both teens and parents. We focus on a balance of cultural, educational and exciting openings to cater to various interests – from art and design to science and innovation. We regularly update this list to feature seasonal highlights and the hottest openings.
Things to do in London with teens in 2026
Must-see West End shows for teens
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – Best for spellbinding special effects
Nearest Tube: Leicester Square Tube station (Northern and Piccadilly lines) is less than a five-minute walk from the theatre.
When: Part one: Wednesdays - Fridays and Saturdays at 2pm; Sundays at 1pm. Part two: Wednesdays - Fridays and Saturdays at 7pm; Sundays at 6pm.
Duration: Part One: Two hours and 40 minutes; Part Two: Two hours and 35 minutes
Harry Potter fans can experience the next generation of wizards in this spectacular two-part production set nineteen years after Harry, Ron and Hermione defeated the dark forces. Based on an original story by JK Rowling, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, the play follows Harry’s youngest son Albus Severus Potter, as he begins his journey at Hogwarts. Sorted into Slytherin, Albus forms an unlikely friendship with Scorpius Malfoy, Draco’s son Scorpius.
We recommend watching Part One and Part Two consecutively – either on the same day (with a matinee followed by an evening performance) or across two days. Evening performances are always Part Two, with Part One staged as a matinee.
Best for: Families with older children and devoted Potterhead’s. Suitable for children aged eight and over.
Good to know: The show will be performed as a single, one part production from 6 October 2026.
MAMMA MIA! – Best for feel-good ABBA hits
Nearest Tube: Covent Garden Tube station (Piccadilly line) is a five-minute walk, while Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines) is just across Waterloo Bridge.
When: Monday, Wednesday to Saturday 7.30pm, Thursday and Saturday 3pm
Duration: Two hours and 35 minutes
MAMMA MIA! has been delighting London’s West End with its feel-good score and uplifting storyline since its premiere in 1999. Like the first film, the show follows bride-to-be Sophie Sheridan as she attempts to discover her father’s identity by inviting three of her mother Donna’s former partners to her Greek wedding – all without telling her mum. What unfolds is a hilarious and heartwarming story of friendship, love, and the unbreakable bond between mother and daughter.
Sing along to ABBA’s greatest hits including Dancing Queen, Super Trouper and Take a Chance on Me. Since its opening, the musical has inspired a blockbuster film and sequel, with a third film in the pipeline.
Best for: A crowd-pleasing West End classic and ABBA anthems. Suitable for children aged five and over.
Good to know: The best seats are in the middle rows of the Stalls (F to H) and the front rows of the Dress Circle (A to C).
Beetlejuice – Best for dark comedy fans
Nearest Tube: Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines) and Tottenham Court Road (Central and Northern lines) Tube stations are both a five-minute walk from the theatre.
When: Monday to Saturday 7.30pm, Friday and Saturday 3pm
Duration: Two hours and 30 minutes
The underworld takes centre stage at this smash-hit Broadway musical arriving in the West End this spring (20 May 2026 to 17 April 2027). Based on Tim Burton’s award-winning 1988 film, the show follows gothic teen Lydia Deetz, who befriends the recently deceased couple Barbara and Adam Maitland, and the mischievous demon Betelgeuse.
Packed with outrageous humour, and a striking score by Eddie Perfect, this gleefully chaotic tale of grief, family and finding your place in the afterlife makes for a devilishly fun theatre trip for tweens and teens.
Best for: Fans of Tim Burton’s classic, spooky fun for older kids. Suitable for children aged 10 and over.
Good to know: Head to neighbouring Chinatown for a pre-theatre bite at stalwarts like Speedboat Bar, Bun House and Bunsik.
Six The Musical – Best for pop-powered girl power
Nearest Tube: Charing Cross (Northern and Bakerloo lines) and Embankment (District, Circle, Bakerloo and Northern lines) are both under a 10-minute walk from the theatre.
Duration: One hour and 15 minutes
When: Tuesday to Saturday 8pm, Sunday 3pm, and Thursday and Saturday 4pm
This high-energy musical spotlights the six wives of Henry VIII in a glittering pop concert. Reimagined as fierce, modern-day divas, Henry’s six wives – Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleves, Catherine Howard and Catherine Parr – reclaim their stories of love, loss and legacy through catchy, chart-inspired anthems.
Fun fact: The show was created by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss during their final year at Cambridge University, and first debuted at the Edinburgh Fringe before transferring to London’s West End in 2019. It received five Olivier Award nominations and went on to win two Tony Awards.
Best for: Teens and adults who love music, sass and history. Suitable for children aged 10 and over.
Good to know: You can book tickets for Hampton Court Palace – the official residence of King Henry VIII – and explore the Great Hall, State Rooms and its glorious gardens.
Explore more of the best theatre shows for kids in London including long-standing favourites such as Disney’s The Lion King and limited-run shows like CATS at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre (25 July to 12 September).
Nearest Tube: North Greenwich (Jubilee line) is adjacent to The O2 arena. While the IFS Cloud Cable Cars – connecting Greenwich to the Royal Docks – are under a five-minute walk.
Duration: 90 minutes
When: Daily with seasonal opening times
Scale the roof of London’s most iconic entertainment venue on this exhilarating 90-minute Up at The O2 guided climb. After a safety briefing at Basecamp, you’ll suit up, clip in, and ascend the 52-metre-high walkway suspended above the arena. From the summit, enjoy uninterrupted views stretching from historic Greenwich and Canary Wharf’s skyscrapers to the winding River Thames and beyond.
Choose from daytime, sunset or twilight climbs – plus seasonal specials such as the festive Snow Globe Climb. Get insider tips and a full rundown in our review of Up at The O2.
Best for: High-altitude fun and unforgettable London vistas. Suitable for children aged eight and over (height requirement applies).
Good to know: Book a sunset climb to see London’s skyline bathed in vibrant oranges and pinks.
The London Dungeon – Best for fearless teens and history fans
Nearest Tube: Waterloo Station (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines) is a five-minute walk from the venue.
Duration: 90 minutes
When: Monday to Friday 11am to 4pm, Saturday 10am to 5pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm
Uncover London’s darkest history at London Dungeon in a 90-minute experience, where live actors, theatrical storytelling and thrilling special effects bring the city’s most notorious moments to life. Encounter Sweeney Todd at his eerie barber shop, unmask Jack the Ripper, and explore medieval torture chambers. Round off your visit with the Drop Dead: Drop Ride, a three-storey freefall thrill.
The attraction is based on the South Bank, making a great base to explore nearby attractions including SEA LIFE London Aquarium and the London Eye.
Best for: Daring teens and fans of London’s history. Suitable for children aged 12 and over.
Good to know: The experience is interactive and includes sudden scares and a freefall ride, which is not recommended for very young children or those with sensory needs.
Thames Rockets – Best for adventure-loving teens
Nearest Tube: Waterloo Station (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines) is a five-minute walk from the boarding pier.
Duration: 50 minutes
When: Daily 10am to 8pm. Times may vary seasonally.
Race along the River Thames on a high-speed Thames Rockets RIB speedboat, zipping past London’s most iconic sights. Starting at the London Eye Pier, your expert guide shares fascinating facts about landmarks including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, and the Thames Barrier. Hold on tight as the boat reaches speeds up to 35mph, twisting and turning for a thrilling ride.
With a feel-good soundtrack, hilarious guides and unforgettable views, Thames Rockets delivers a unique mix of sightseeing, adventure and pure thrills.
Best for: Adventure-loving teens, and sightseeing fans who like a shot of adrenaline. Suitable for children aged 10 and over.
Good to know: Wear warm, waterproof clothing for wind and splashes.
Check out more unmissable London experiences for teens, including immersive activities and standout food spots.
Unmissable tours and attractions for teenagers in London
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – Best for Harry Potter fans
Nearest Tube: Watford Junction is the nearest station, with 20-minute direct trains from London Euston (Victoria and Northern lines).
Duration: Allow three and a half hours
When: 8.30am to 10pm. Last entry depends on season, typically between 4 to 6.30pm.
Teens can explore the magical world of Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, wandering through world-famous sets such as Diagon Alley, The Great Hall, Gringotts Wizarding Bank and the Forbidden Forest. Uncover original costumes and props, from Harry’s invisibility cloak to Hagrid’s moleskin coat and the Chamber of Secrets door.
For budding filmmakers, the special effects section is must-see. Discover how green screen technology and CGI created epic scenes including Quidditch matches, the Weasleys’ flying car, and house-elves, while exploring behind-the-scenes tricks that made the magic happen.
Best for: Teen Potterhead’s and aspiring filmmakers. Suitable for all ages (children must be accompanied by an adult).
Good to know: Check which seasonal takeover coincides with your visit, from the spooky Dark Arts experience to the festive Hogwarts in the Snow.
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium tour – Best for Spurs fans and sports-loving teens
Nearest Tube: White Hart Lane (London Overground) is a five-minute walk to the stadium, while Tottenham Hale (Victoria Line and Abellio Greater Anglia services) is a 10-minute walk.
Duration: Allow up to two hours
When: Daily 10am to 4.30pm (subject to availability depending on matches and events)
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in north London is the home of Spurs and hosts NFL, rugby and concerts. On a guided stadium tour, teens can walk in the players’ footsteps, explore first-team areas such as the changing rooms, tunnel and dugouts, and see the club’s NFL facilities. Ultimate fans can upgrade to a Legends Tour with a Spurs hero. For adrenaline seekers, The Dare Skywalk lets you scale the stadium to the golden cockerel, while the F1-inspired driving experience puts you behind the wheel for a high-speed circuit adventure beneath the stadium.
Best for: Teen Spurs fans, families curious about behind-the-scenes stadium action. Suitable for all ages (height requirements apply to certain experiences).
Good to know: Food and drink aren’t allowed inside the stadium. Some areas – including dressing rooms and the dugout – may be closed on matchdays, and experiences may be cancelled last-minute if home games are scheduled.
Madame Tussauds – Best for pop culture and Hollywood fans
Nearest Tube: Baker Street (Circle, Bakerloo, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan and Jubilee lines) is a five-minute walk from the attraction.
Duration: Allow up to two and a half hours
When: Daily 10am to 3pm.
Head down Marylebone Road and you’ll spot the striking green dome of Madame Tussauds London. Rub shoulders with more than 150 lifelike celebrities across three floors including the Awards Party Zone, where Harry Styles and Zendaya will be on the red carpet. See Drake and Dua Lipa in the Impossible Festival, then step inside the Royal Palace to meet King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
Best for: Music and movie lovers and teen Instagrammers. Suitable for all ages.
Good to know: Wax figures are added to the collection throughout the year with recent additions including Taylor Swift and Timothée Chalamet.
Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour – Best for first-time teen visitors
Duration: 24, 48 or 72 hours – depending on ticket type
When: First full tour 9am, with buses every 20 to 30 minutes
Jump aboard London’s hop-on hop-off bus and check out the capital’s top landmarks from an open-air deck. Buses depart every 20 minutes on Red and Blue routes and every 30 minutes on Orange routes – just look out for designated Golden Tours signs at each stop. You’ll visit 60 key stops including Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London and Westminster Abbey, with the option to hop off and explore each landmark at your own pace before picking up the next bus at the designated stop.
Start early to swerve crowds (first departure is 9am) and download the app to track buses in real time. No live guide onboard? There’s an audio guide available in 12 languages.
Download the London hop-on hop-off bus tour route map.
Best for: Hassle-free sightseeing, epic photos and teen-friendly exploration. Suitable for all ages (children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult).
Good to know: Tickets also include a free hop-on hop-off river cruise, which depart every 30 minutes from Westminster Pier and Tower Millennium Pier.
Discover more of the best attractions in London for teenagers such as the Tower of London, FRAMELESS and Buckingham Palace.
Nearest Tube: High Street Kensington (Circle and District lines) is a five-minute walk away, while Holland Park (Central line) and Earl’s Court (District and Piccadilly lines) are around a 15-minute walk from the museum.
Duration: Allow up to two hours
When: Monday to Thursday 10am to 5pm, Friday to Sunday 10am to 6pm
The interior of the Design Museum is a spectacle in itself. Dreamed up by architect John Pawson, the Grade II-listed building pairs a minimalist finish of oak and marble with colourful murals. After standing empty for nearly a decade, the landmark reopened in 2016 when the museum relocated from Shad Thames to Kensington. The space houses the permanent Designer Maker User gallery, featuring more than 1,000 objects spanning 20th -and 21st century architecture and design.
We recommend taking a seat on the central staircase benches, where you can admire the building’s soaring ceilings before browsing the gift shop for beautiful stationery and design books. Be sure to check out what special exhibition is on during your visit – the current highlight is Wes Anderson: The Archives (until 26 July 2026), the first ever retrospective of the American filmmaker featuring storyboards, costumes and models.
Best for: Teens interested in architecture, fashion and innovation. Suitable for all ages.
Good to know: Lockers are available on Level -1, and there’s a cafe and restaurant serving salads, sandwiches and pastries.
Natural History Museum – Best for interactive exhibits
Nearest Tube: South Kensington (District, Circle and Piccadilly lines) is just a five-minute walk from the museum.
Duration: Allow three to four hours
When: Open daily 10am to 5.50pm (last entry 5.30pm)
Step inside the Natural History Museum and you’ll be greeted by the striking 25.2-metre-long blue whale skeleton Hope, suspended from the ceiling in Hintze Hall. The Museum is home to more than 80 million objects spanning 4.5 billion years, including prehistoric fossils in the Dinosaurs Gallery and meteorites from outer space. Teens will love the human evolution gallery, where they can discover the first adult Neanderthal skull and a 420,000-year-old Clacton spear.
Download the Natural History Museum App before you visit to make the most of your experience and easily find food and drink spots, along with different installations such as the Earthquake simulator and the escalator ride through the giant Earth model.
Best for: Human evolution, space exploration and hands-on exhibitions. Suitable for all ages.
Good to know: The Science Museum is located right next door, where teens can try Power Up, an interactive gaming experience featuring top video games from the past 50 years.
Tate Modern – Best for curious and creative teenagers
Nearest Tube: Blackfriars (District and Circle lines) and Southwark (Jubilee line) are both within walking distance to the gallery.
Duration: Allow two to four hours
When: Sunday to Thursday 10am to 6pm, Friday and Saturday 10am to 10pm
Positioned just a short walk from Shakespeare’s Globe and Borough Market, Tate Modern occupies the former Bankside Power Station right on the banks of the Thames. Enter through the Turbine Hall – home to an ever-changing rotation of large-scale installations – and explore a cutting-edge collection of artworks including Henry Matisse’s The Snail (1953), Pablo Picasso's Weeping Woman (1937) and Andy Warhol’s Marilyn Diptych (1962).
In 2026, Tate Modern celebrates its 25th anniversary with blockbuster exhibitions dedicated to Tracey Emin and Frida Kahlo, alongside special events including a birthday weekender and an art trail of 25 era-defining works displayed throughout the gallery.
Best for: A bold, free collection of international modern and contemporary art, featuring painting, sculpture, film and large-scale installations. Suitable for all ages.
Good to know: Head to Level 10 for a free public viewing gallery, offering sweeping views of the City of London and beyond (last entry 16:45 daily).
Discover more of the best museums and galleries in London, from quirky spots like Paradox Museum to modern favourites such as Moco Museum London.
Nearest Tube: Aldgate East (District and Hammersmith & City lines) and Liverpool Street station (Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan and Elizabeth lines) are around a 10-minute walk away.
When: Monday to Saturday 10am to 7pm, Sunday 11am to 5pm
There are four Rough Trade locations across London, but it’s their flagship outpost just off Brick Lane in Shoreditch that we recommend visiting. Browse a vast collection of new and vintage vinyl, alongside a well-curated selection of music books, biographies and merchandise. The store also has a purpose-built stage hosting gigs from a mix of emerging and established artists, with previous performances from Bombay Bicycle Club, Blur and Norah Jones. Upcoming highlights include a listening party celebrating the release of Harry Styles’ new album Kiss All the Time and Disco Occasionally.
We recommend exploring Brick Lane’s vintage shops including ATIKA London, Vintage Basement, Brick Lane Vintage and Y2K Vintage, for thoughtfully curated accessories, footwear and clothing.
Best for: Vinyl collectors, music fans and gig-goers. Suitable for all ages.
Good to know: Don’t miss the black-and-white photobooth near the cafe at the back of the store.
Leake Street Arches – Best for bold and beautiful graffiti
Nearest Tube: The tunnel is beneath Waterloo Station (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City lines). Take the Waterloo Road exit and head towards the York Road roundabout, where the tunnel entrance is on the left.
Set directly beneath Waterloo Station, Leake Street Arches is London’s longest graffiti gallery, stretching around 300 metres with walls and ceilings decorated with vibrant, ever-changing street art. Teens will love walking through the tunnel to spot artists in action, snapping photos of bold murals and discovering new pieces that appear daily.
Leake Street is one of the few places in London where graffiti is legal, and the space also features food and drink spots including Vietnamese street food at Banh Bao Brothers and tasty Philly cheesesteaks at Passyunk Avenue.
Best for: Street art fans and a chance to create your own masterpiece. Suitable for all ages.
Good to know: Kids over 12 can book a guided graffiti workshop and create their own artwork, with simple instructions on how to use spray paint and protective gear supplied.
Hidden Tube Tour – Best for curious teens and transport enthusiasts
Nearest Tube: Baker Street (Bakerloo, Circle, Hammersmith & City, Jubilee and Metropolitan lines).
Duration: 85 minutes
When: Wednesdays to Sundays (select dates) – times vary depending on the date
Go behind the scenes of the London Underground on a fascinating Hidden Tube Tour of Baker Street. Hear about the origins of the world’s first Underground network as an expert guide shares more than 160 years of the station’s history, from Victorian steam travel to art deco advertisements and the modern network. You’ll explore closed-off spaces including original platforms, disused lift shafts and hidden corridors and the station’s former rifle range.
Best for: History buffs and anyone curious about London’s secret underground spaces.
Good to know: The tour is open to guests 10 and over – visitors under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Wear light, breathable clothing as it can be warm below ground.
Explore more unusual and quirky things to do in London such as Lightroom, Twist Museum and ABBA Voyage.
Nearest Tube: Peckham Rye (Overground and National Rail), is a two-minute walk from the venue with direct services to Clapham Junction, London Bridge and London Victoria.
When: 10 April to 15 October
Head to the Bussey Building in Peckham to catch a screening of your favourite film with a side of skyline views at Rooftop Cinema Club. Choose from deep-cushioned deckchairs or two-person love seats – perfect for snuggling with friends. Screenings include classics and new releases such as Pretty Woman, Pulp Fiction and La La Land, with live coverage of Wimbledon and the F1 also featured. Grab street food – the stone-baked pizza is great – enjoy city views and hunker down by a fireside heater.
Best for: Movie fans and friends looking to watch a film outdoors. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult and are not permitted after 5pm.
Good to know: There’s another location at Roof East in Stratford with a similar lineup of films and street food menu.
London lidos and outdoor swimming spots – Best for swim enthusiasts
When: May to September (depending on location)
Cool off this summer at one of London’s lidos or outdoor swimming spots. Head to south London’s Tooting Bec Lido, the UK’s largest open freshwater pool, or relax at Parliament Hill Lido in Hampstead Heath – a grade II-listed lido with warm showers perfect after a swim. For wild swimming, Hampstead Heath’s ponds offer ladies’, men’s and mixed ponds. In Canary Wharf, Eden Dock invites swimmers to paddle beneath towering skyscrapers all summer.
Best for: Keen swimmers, teens seeking outdoor fun and somewhere to cool off. Suitable for all ages (non-swimmers under 16 require adult supervision).
Good to know: Most lidos charge an entry free, and wild swimming is seasonal – book ahead to avoid missing out.
London parks and green spaces – Best for outdoor fun and relaxation
Stretch your legs with a walk or cycle through some of London’s most scenic green spaces, or opt for a lovely picnic in a glorious park. Richmond Park impresses with its herds of deer and sweeping grassland, while Greenwich Park, Hampstead Heath and Primrose Hill offer breathtaking skyline views – perfect for a sunset picnic. If you’re seeking a breather between sightseeing, St James’s Park – the capital’s oldest Royal park – provides tranquillity amid the buzz of Horse Guards Parade, Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey. Meanwhile, Kensington Palace Gardens delights with ponds, terraces, seasonal flowers and the Sunken Garden, famously Princess Diana’s favourite and home to her memorial playground.
Best for: Teens looking to relax with friends or get active outdoors. Suitable for all ages.
Good to know: Lots of parks host pop-up markets and seasonal events throughout the summer – from pedalos on the Serpentine in Hyde Park to award-winning performances at the Open Air Theatre in Regent’s Park.
Looking for more outdoor fun in London? Check out our guide to parks, waterside hangouts and hidden gems.
Nearest Tube: Green Park (Victoria, Jubilee and Piccadilly lines) and London Victoria (Victoria, District and Circle lines) are under a 10-minute walk from Buckingham Palace.
When: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 11am
Duration: Around 45 minutes
Changing of the Guard offers a thrilling military parade, where the New Guard formally relieve the Old Guard at Buckingham Palace. The historic tradition dates back to the reign of King Henry VIII and features spectacular marches and a traditional military soundtrack – occasionally with contemporary tunes such as Taylor Swift hits to mark the London leg of her Eras Tour.
The parade starts at St James’s Palace at around 10.25am, with soldiers marching down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace. We recommend arriving at Buckingham Palace by 10.15am to secure a spot on the steps of the Victoria Memorial directly opposite the palace – it offers unbeatable views and great photo opportunities.
Best for: A classic London experience, especially for teens intrigued by the Crown. Suitable for all ages.
Good to know: Buckingham Palace opens to the public every summer (9 July to 27 September 2026), inviting visitors to take a self-guided tour of its lavish State Rooms and beautiful gardens.
Sky Garden – Best for free observation deck
Nearest Tube: Monument (District and Circle lines) is a five-minute walk, while Bank (Central, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines) is also nearby.
When: 10am to 6pm from Monday to Friday, 11am to 9pm on Saturday and Sunday
Nicknamed the Walkie Talkie, Sky Garden is the highest public garden in London at a soaring 508ft above the City. Book a free time slot and rocket 37 floors in the lift before arriving at the lush indoor garden, where glass walls and ceilings frame sweeping views across the capital. Wander around the entire space to spot London landmarks from every angle and visit on a clear day to step out onto the open-air terrace for spectacular views of The Shard, Tower Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral.
Best for: Teens who love city views and skyline photos. Suitable for all ages (children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult).
Good to know: Entry is free, but we recommend booking a timed ticket in advance. Children under 16 aren’t permitted after 6pm on weekdays and 9pm on weekends.
The LEGO Store – Best for LEGO enthusiasts
Nearest Tube: Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines) and Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines) are a short walk from the shop.
When: Monday to Saturday 8am to 10om, Sunday 12pm to 6pm
The flagship LEGO Store in Leicester Square is a must-visit for LEGO fans, with two floors of interactive displays, in-store activities and eye-popping models. Teens will love spotting the life-size LEGO builds such as a classic double-decker bus and a slick Aston Martin.
There are also hands-on experiences, from designing your own custom minifigure to creating a personalised photo mosaic. Expect shelves brimming with themed sets – from Harry Potter to Star Wars – it’s a perfect place to browse and pick up your next building challenge.
Best for: Budding builders, architects and designers. Suitable for all ages.
Good to know: The store gets very busy – particularly on weekends and during school holidays. Visit earlier in the day to avoid crowds and for a quieter experience.
Get more ideas for the best free things to do in London with teenagers, from museums and landmarks to unusual places.
Nearest Tube: Covent Garden (Piccadilly line) and Tottenham Court Road (Central, Northern, and Elizabeth lines) are both a five-minute walk from the market.
This two-level food hall in Covent Garden is a fantastic way to feast through London’s food and drink scene, with communal tables and 21 independent vendors dishing up a diverse menu of flavours. Drop in at lunchtime to avoid the pre-theatre crowds and try the signature cheeseburger sandwiched to perfection in a toasted sesame bun with hand-cut chips at Bleecker Burger, or the New York-style pizzas from Bad Boy Pizza Society. Other highlights include tacos, dumplings, soft serve and the world’s first cheese conveyor belt at Pick & Cheese.
Best for: Foodie teens looking to sample a global menu of flavours. Suitable for all ages (some areas require adult supervision, and bars are strictly 18+).
Good to know: Head to Covent Garden’s central piazza to catch world-class magicians, opera singers and acrobats performing live street shows – a tradition that continues into the late evening.
Chinatown – Best for foodies and culture seekers
Nearest Tube: Leicester Square (Piccadilly and Northern lines), Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines), Tottenham Court Road (Central, Northern and Elizabeth lines) are all within walking distance.
Chinatown is a vibrant hub of food, culture and colourful streetscapes in London’s West End. The area started to form in the 1950s when a handful of Chinese restaurants opened, and today Gerrard Street is lined with eateries, bakeries and shops selling Asian groceries, sweets and trinkets. Teens will love exploring the street’s Chinese-style gates (just off Shaftesbury Avenue on Wardour Street), red lanterns, lucky cats and stone lions, while sampling bubble tea, dumplings or Hong Kong-style egg waffles.
Standouts include Asian street food at Baozilnn, Korean barbeque dishes at Olle, and Taiwanese cuisine at Leong’s Legend.
Best for: Food-loving teens looking to explore Asian cuisine and culture. Suitable for all ages.
Good to know: Chinatown hosts spectacular annual events, including the Chinese New Year parade, lion dances and pop-up food stalls – perfect for foodie adventures and photo opportunities.
Pizza Pilgrims – Best for pizza lovers
When: Open 11.30am to 11pm Monday to Saturday, 11.30am to 9pm Sunday
Pizza Pilgrims is a must-visit for pizza-loving teens, serving authentic Neapolitan-style slices with a fun, casual vibe. From gooey Margheritas to loaded toppings such as nduja, truffle or burrata, there’s something for every taste. The restaurants are relaxed with a buzzy, feel-good vibe ideal for groups of friends or a quick bite between sightseeing.
Best for: Teens and families who love classic Neapolitan-style pizza.
Good to know: There are 22 locations in London including central spots such as Soho, Carnaby, Covent Garden and Shoreditch, making it easy to pop in wherever you are in the city.
Find more of the best family-friendly restaurants in London, from themed menus to affordable spots and beyond.
