We live about 45 minutes from London so I guess to some extent we take it for granted. Like most people who live near a capital or a big city – it’s always there. So, you often don’t see it through a tourists view.
Since having Miss Marnie we have made a conscious effort to see the ‘Big Smoke’ through her eyes.
This has meant day trips up West to see various books-turned-puppet shows on the stage, hitting famous department stores to see Santa or other festive treats and finding the best museums to entertain a lively toddler.
Not that we can do this every weekend – work, family visits and general household jobs means we often stay local to our area. Which has got me thinking about a ‘Stylish Staycation’ – a little weekend getaway in our own city.
Think about it – it’s the perfect mini-break with a toddler – as travelling is kept to a minimum. No laundry, no chores, no dishes – just a weekend to relax, see the sights and spend time together as a family.
And, the added bonus – no rushing for the last train home as staying over in a lovely hotel means not only a big comfy bed but a home away from home base (especially when nap time calls).
So, what would we do if we had a full 48hrs to enjoy London town with a toddler?
Besides the traditional ‘must-sees’ (Buckingham Place, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, Zoo etc.) Here’s some stylish little ideas:
SOUTH LONDON
* Head to the London Bridge or Waterloo for the London Eye, Borough Market, The Tate and views over the Thames. Boat rides, storytelling for under 5’s and musical events.
* Battersea Park Children’s Zoo and playground – not as big as London Zoo but perfect for little feet and has a nice cafe too.
* Horniman Museum & Gardens – exhibitions, Aquarium, lovely cafe and space to run free.
* LONDON STYLE PICKS *
For train journeys or in playtime in your hotel room this set of wooden toys are unbreakable
London in a Bag £18 || Jazz up your coats or scarfs with a Set of badges £3
EAST LONDON
* Take a No. 11 red double-decker bus (from Liverpool Street) and ride past the sights (it drives past loads of famous landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral, Big Ben and Nelson’s Column) . It also costs less than a tourist bus ticket.
* Visit the V&A Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Green for amazing exhibitions and displays, arts and crafts, storytelling and trails.
* Have traditional East End Pie & Mash.
* LONDON STYLE PICKS *
Pack the little fave clothes in this stylish London Bus suitcase £25 || Enjoy a good nights sleep in these Bus print pyjamas £30
WEST LONDON
* See a classic kids book come to life on the stage in the West End.
* Shopping can be fun! Especially at Westfield – not only are you undercover if the British weather strikes – the pushchair friendly mall offers a play area, mother and baby rooms, plenty of lifts and enough food choices to please the whole family. Or, just head to Hamley’s – the oldest toy shop in the world in the heart of Regent Street.
* Stay at the 5* Royal Garden Hotel – this family-friendly luxury hotel is in the middle of Kensington – perfect for visiting the Palace, Hyde Park or the exclusive High Street.
* LONDON STYLE PICKS *
London guard logo T-shirt £14 || An inactive guide book -Things to Spot in London Sticker book £3.19
NORTH LONDON
* The large ancient space that is Hampstead Heath is perfect for kite flying, picnics and views across London. Also discover the playgrounds, ponds and the Pavilion at Parliament Hill.
* The large iconic building that is Alexandra Palace has lots to offer. From festivals to funfairs. But, for kids it’s all about the ice-skating, soft play and boating lake.
* Stop for afternoon tea or a cupcake at the Primrose Bakery
*LONDON STYLE PICKS *
Stay hydrated with these handy London water bottles £12 || Nothing says it better than this classic tee £4.99
AND, LIKE EVERY GOOD TOURIST DON’T FORGET YOUR CAMERA!
V. I. BE HONEST: This post is an entry in the Tots100 Competition to win a Five-star stay at the Royal Garden Hotel – how amazing would that be?
Lovely post, full of fab ideas and things to do in the Capital. Good luck xx
Oh I love this post, I so miss living near London we lived in Billericay so was only 45 mins away too. I love London and would love to live near it again x