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Things to do in South Bank for kids

South Bank and Bankside have plenty to entertain all ages, from world-class attractions to fascinating history and fun activities for kids.
Visit London Editors
Written by Visit London Editors Edited by Coralie Modschiedler 16 January 2025
A family enjoy the amazing views from a pod as they ride The London Eye.
Make memories with the whole family on the London Eye. Credit: London Eye. Image courtesy of London Eye.

The south bank of the river Thames packs a lot into an easily walkable area, making it the ideal destination for a family day out.

What to do in South Bank with kids

A woman shows a group of fish to a young boy, swimming in a tank at the SEA LIFE London aquarium. 

Start your day with a trip to some of London's top attractions. Reach great heights on the London Eye, one of the world's highest observation wheels or see the wonders of the deep at the SEA LIFE London aquarium – go on a behind-the-scenes tour for fun insights into how the hundreds of species are cared for. 

Discover the dark side of London's history at the London Dungeon. Costumed actors, special shows and thrilling rides bring this gruesome experience to life and have the whole family screaming for more! 

Free attractions in South Bank for kids

A battleship sits atop the water with a bridge and blue sky in the background.

After lunch, head up the Thames towards Bankside. Kids and culture don't always go hand-in-hand, but at Tate Modern there's a range of free activities for families and children. Budding artists can learn all about modern art in the dedicated Family Zone.

Wander along the Thames and you'll come to the full-scale reconstruction of Sir Francis Drake's world-famous galleon, The Golden Hinde. Create your own swashbuckling adventures as you tread the boards on a self-guided tour of this magnificent ship. 

Sticking with the nautical theme, HMS Belfast is also well worth a visit. With free entry for under-5s, this WW2 cruiser is a floating museum with nine decks to explore. Its busy events programme includes many family activities, so climb aboard to have some fun.

Kid-friendly places to eat in South Bank

Bacon sandwich on table surrounded by drinks and people sitting round table at Borough Market.

The Southbank Centre is an excellent place to stop for a bite to eat, as there are many family-friendly restaurants such as Wagamama or Giraffe. Kids love sampling the dim sum at Ping Pong; the tasty parcels are perfect for little fingers.

If the sun's shining, enjoy a picnic in nearby Bernie Spain Gardens or, if it's raining, packed lunches are allowed in Royal Festival Hall's picnic area on level three. Alternatively, dine alfresco at Gabriel's Wharf, where you'll find a range of cafes and restaurants offering savoury delights and sweet treats.

Try Borough Market for the best street food from all over the world at reasonable prices. Alternatively, enjoy a meal with a view at Strada, boasting a great value menu in a fantastic location overlooking Tower Bridge. Many of the pizzas and pastas are available in child-friendly portions, and there is plenty of outdoor seating if the sun's still shining.

Head to Wahaca and sample a special kids’ menu offering smaller portions, toned-down spices and little extras to finish. Or try nearby Las Iguanas, equally kitted out with a full kids menu and free baby food for their youngest guests.

Discover more kid-friendly tips with the top things to do in London for families, or explore the 101 best things to do in London with kids. 

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