London, a city teeming with history, culture, and iconic landmarks, has long been a favourite destination for travellers worldwide. However, it’s not just solo adventurers and history buffs who find this city appealing; London is also a fantastic family-friendly travel destination. With its wide array of museums, parks, educational sites, and family-oriented activities, there’s something for everyone, no matter their age.
Yet, planning a family trip is no easy task; it requires careful consideration, especially regarding accommodation. The choice of where to stay can significantly impact the overall experience of your journey. Your hotel is not merely a place to rest your head at the end of the day—it can serve as a sanctuary for relaxation, a central hub for your activities, and a safe and comfortable environment for your children. It’s essential, therefore, to find a family-friendly hotel that caters to the needs of all family members, from the youngest to the oldest.
In this article, we’ve handpicked the ten best family hotels in London, considering key factors such as safety, location, amenities, and customer reviews. We aim to help you make an informed decision, ensuring your stay in this vibrant city is as memorable, enjoyable, and stress-free as possible. So, whether you’re planning a summer vacation or a short city break, read on to find the perfect ‘home away from home’ for your family in London.
Criteria for Selection family hotels in London
Choosing the perfect family hotel in a city as large and diverse as London can seem daunting. To make this process easier, we’ve based our selections on five critical criteria:
- Family-Oriented Amenities: Hotels that cater specifically to families tend to offer amenities that make a stay more comfortable and convenient for parents and children. These may include spacious family rooms, kid-friendly menus, babysitting services, children’s activities and clubs, and essential items like cribs and high chairs.
- Location: A hotel’s background can significantly impact your sightseeing and travel experience. We’ve focused on hotels centrally located near major tourist attractions and public transportation. This can help reduce travel time and make it easier to return to the hotel for a mid-day rest if needed.
- Price: Family trips can be expensive, so finding accommodation that fits your budget is essential. We’ve included various options to cater to different budgets, from luxury hotels to more affordable yet comfortable choices.
- Safety: Safety is paramount when travelling with family. We’ve selected hotels with a strong reputation for safety and security, including 24-hour reception, secure entry, and sometimes lifeguards at hotel pools.
- Customer Reviews: Real experiences from other families can provide invaluable insight. We’ve considered customer reviews and ratings, focusing on those that highlight helpful staff, cleanliness, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Each hotel in our list excels in these areas, providing not just a place to sleep but a place where families can feel at home while exploring all London offers.
Top 10 Family Hotels in London
1. Royal Garden Hotel
Overview of the Hotel
The Royal Garden Hotel is an upscale 5-star hotel in Kensington, one of London’s most elegant neighbourhoods. Its stunning views over Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park offer a perfect blend of city life and serene nature. The hotel boasts a modern and stylish décor that doesn’t compromise on comfort, making it an ideal choice for families seeking luxury accommodation.
Key Family-Friendly Features
The hotel truly excels when it comes to catering for families. They offer spacious family and interconnecting rooms, ideal for larger families or those seeking extra space. Additionally, they provide many child-friendly amenities, including kid-sized bathrobes, a special children’s menu in their restaurants, and a welcome gift for younger guests upon arrival. The hotel also offers babysitting services, ensuring parents can enjoy a well-deserved break.
Location and Accessibility to Tourist Attractions
The Royal Garden Hotel is ideally situated for family exploration. It’s a short walk from Kensington Palace and Gardens, and the enchanting Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground – a must-visit for families with young children. Other nearby attractions include the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum, less than a 20-minute walk away. With the High Street Kensington Underground station close by, the rest of London’s attractions are within easy reach.
Price Range
As a 5-star hotel, the Royal Garden Hotel sits on the higher end of the price range. However, the exceptional family-friendly services, luxurious rooms, and prime location offer excellent value for money, making it a worthwhile consideration for families looking for a lavish stay in London.
2. The Mandeville Hotel
Overview of the Hotel
Nestled in the heart of London’s fashionable Marylebone Village, The Mandeville Hotel offers a blend of classic elegance and modern comfort. This 4-star boutique hotel is known for its chic design, friendly service, and welcoming atmosphere that extends to guests of all ages.
Key Family-Friendly Features
The Mandeville Hotel shines when it comes to accommodating families. They offer spacious family rooms with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay. In addition, the hotel provides complimentary cribs for babies, and extra beds can be added to rooms for older children. The in-house restaurant offers a diverse menu that caters to various dietary requirements and includes kid-friendly options.
Location and Accessibility to Tourist Attractions
Located just a few minutes from bustling Oxford Street and Regent Street, The Mandeville Hotel is a perfect base for families keen on shopping and exploring the city’s main attractions. The hotel is also close to Hyde Park and Regent’s Park, offering plenty of outdoor space for children to run around. Major attractions such as Madame Tussauds, the British Museum, and the London Zoo are easily accessible from the hotel.
Price Range
The Mandeville Hotel offers competitive pricing for its location and the amenities provided. Its comfortable rooms and family-friendly services present a great value option for families seeking a stylish yet affordable base in central London.
3. Pestana Chelsea Bridge Hotel
Overview of the Hotel
Overlooking the scenic River Thames, the Pestana Chelsea Bridge Hotel is a stylish and modern 4-star hotel in London’s prestigious Chelsea neighbourhood. The hotel’s contemporary design and spacious rooms and suites provide families with an airy, comfortable environment.
Key Family-Friendly Features
This hotel offers spacious family rooms and suites, some of which come with a kitchenette, providing flexibility for families, especially those with young children. A notable feature is their indoor heated pool, which can provide hours of fun for the kids. The hotel’s restaurant offers a dedicated children’s menu and high chairs, and the 24-hour room service ensures convenience for families.
Location and Accessibility to Tourist Attractions
Situated adjacent to Battersea Park, families staying at the Pestana Chelsea Bridge Hotel can enjoy the park’s playgrounds, zoo, and open spaces. The hotel is also just a short bus ride from key attractions such as the Natural History Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Science Museum. Additionally, the famous King’s Road in Chelsea, known for its shopping and dining options, is within easy reach.
Price Range
Pestana Chelsea Bridge Hotel is moderately priced, considering its location and the range of amenities it offers. Its competitive rates and family-friendly features make it an excellent option for families seeking a blend of comfort, convenience, and value for money.
4. Hotel Lily
Overview of the Hotel
Hotel Lily is a budget-friendly 3-star hotel offering a cosy and comfortable stay. Located in Earl’s Court, this hotel is renowned for its warm hospitality and commitment to making every guest feel at home. The hotel’s simplistic design and friendly atmosphere make it an excellent choice for families travelling on a budget.
Key Family-Friendly Features
Hotel Lily provides a range of family rooms that can accommodate different family sizes. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and equipped with all the necessary amenities. Additionally, the hotel offers a complimentary breakfast, ensuring a convenient start to your day of exploration. High chairs are available for younger children.
Location and Accessibility to Tourist Attractions
Hotel Lily is located within a short walk from the Earl’s Court underground station, offering convenient access to London’s key attractions. The Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum are just a few Tube stops away. The hotel’s location also allows easy access to Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park, providing ample opportunities for family picnics and outdoor activities.
Price Range
One of the most competitively priced hotels in this area, Hotel Lily offers an excellent balance of affordability and comfort, making it a perfect choice for families on a budget who don’t want to compromise on accessibility to the main attractions.
5. The Rembrandt
Overview of the Hotel
The Rembrandt is a charming 4-star hotel in the heart of South Kensington. Its traditional British elegance, modern comfort, and a touch of historic charm promise a unique and memorable stay for families.
Key Family-Friendly Features
The Rembrandt shines with its family-friendly approach. The hotel offers a range of spacious family rooms and suites and interconnecting rooms for larger families. Children under 16 can stay free of charge when using existing beds, making it a more affordable choice for families. The on-site restaurant provides a dedicated children’s menu and high chairs. The hotel also has an indoor swimming pool, which can be a source of entertainment for children.
Location and Accessibility to Tourist Attractions
Ideally situated in South Kensington, The Rembrandt is just a short walk from some of London’s top museums, including the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. Harrods and the high-end shops of Knightsbridge are also within a short walking distance. The hotel’s proximity to South Kensington Underground Station makes it easy for families to explore other parts of the city.
Price Range
While The Rembrandt is a 4-star hotel offering high comfort and convenience, it maintains a mid-range price point, making it an excellent value for the quality of service and location. It’s a fantastic option for families seeking a balance between luxury and affordability in one of London’s most prestigious areas.
6. NYX Hotel London Holborn by Leonardo Hotels
Overview of the Hotel
The NYX Hotel London Holborn by Leonardo Hotels is a stylish and contemporary 4-star hotel in Holborn’s vibrant district. Its striking design, modern amenities, and impeccable service offer families an exciting and comfortable stay.
Key Family-Friendly Features
The hotel provides spacious family rooms with all the amenities for a comfortable stay. The on-site restaurant offers a varied menu with plenty of kid-friendly options, and high chairs are available. One standout feature is the hotel’s indoor heated swimming pool, which provides year-round family fun. The NYX Hotel also offers babysitting services, allowing parents time to relax or explore independently.
Location and Accessibility to Tourist Attractions
The NYX Hotel enjoys a central location that allows families easy access to some of London’s top attractions. The British Museum, Covent Garden, and the Theatre District are all within a short walk. With Holborn Underground Station nearby, families also have convenient access to other parts of the city, including the Tower of London, the London Eye, and the Natural History Museum.
Price Range
While not the cheapest option, the NYX Hotel London Holborn offers competitive rates for its location and the quality of amenities provided. Its unique blend of style, comfort, and family-friendly features makes it an excellent value choice for families willing to spend more for a memorable stay in central London.
7. K West Hotel & Spa
Overview of the Hotel
K West Hotel & Spa is a modern 4-star hotel located in the fashionable area of West London. Known for its trendy design and relaxing atmosphere, this hotel provides a unique and comfortable stay for families seeking a blend of city life and relaxation.
Key Family-Friendly Features
The hotel provides spacious family rooms and extra beds for children, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone. K West Hotel & Spa stands out with its unique feature – a luxurious spa, which includes a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, and a range of pampering treatments. While the kids enjoy the in-room entertainment, parents can take turns visiting the spa for well-deserved relaxation. The hotel’s restaurant offers a diverse menu, including kid-friendly meals.
Location and Accessibility to Tourist Attractions
Situated a short walk from the Shepherd’s Bush Underground Station, the K West Hotel & Spa provides easy access to central London’s main attractions. Families can also enjoy local attractions such as the Westfield London Shopping Centre and KidZania London, an indoor city run by kids. The beautiful Holland Park, with its Kyoto Garden and extensive playgrounds, is also within a short distance.
Price Range
The K West Hotel & Spa offers a moderate to high price range. However, considering its unique spa features, family-friendly amenities, and accessible location, it provides excellent value for families seeking a stylish and relaxing base from which to explore London.
8. Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington
Overview of the Hotel
The Copthorne Tara Hotel is a 4-star hotel in the heart of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. This hotel stands out with its combination of comfort, convenience, and warm hospitality, offering a comfortable stay for families.
Key Family-Friendly Features
The hotel offers a variety of family rooms, including the option for interconnecting rooms for larger families or those desiring additional space. Children under the age of 12 stay for free when using existing bedding. The on-site restaurants offer a variety of dining options, including kid-friendly meals.
Location and Accessibility to Tourist Attractions
The Copthorne Tara Hotel is conveniently located near Kensington High Street, offering easy access to various shops and restaurants. It’s just a short stroll to Kensington Gardens and Kensington Palace. Additionally, the hotel is within walking distance of the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and Victoria and Albert Museum. With its proximity to High Street Kensington Underground Station, other London attractions are just a short tube ride away.
Price Range
The Copthorne Tara Hotel offers competitive pricing for its location and services, providing excellent value for money. It is a fantastic choice for families seeking a comfortable, convenient, and reasonably priced base in one of London’s most prestigious neighbourhoods.
9. Millennium & Copthorne Hotels at Chelsea Football Club
Overview of the Hotel
The Millennium & Copthorne Hotels at Chelsea Football Club is a unique 4-star hotel complex located within the grounds of Chelsea Football Club’s Stamford Bridge stadium. This sports-themed hotel provides a memorable and exciting stay for families, particularly football enthusiasts.
Key Family-Friendly Features
The hotel offers spacious family rooms with all the amenities for a comfortable stay. A standout feature is the opportunity for guests to take a behind-the-scenes tour of Stamford Bridge, a must for any football fan. The hotel’s restaurants also offer a diverse menu, including kid-friendly meals.
Location and Accessibility to Tourist Attractions
Though slightly off the typical tourist path, the hotel is conveniently located near Fulham Broadway Station, making it easy to reach central London’s main attractions. The hotel is also a short bus ride from the Natural History Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, and Science Museum. The shopping and dining options of King’s Road are within easy reach, as are the open spaces of Battersea Park.
Price Range
The Millennium & Copthorne Hotels at Chelsea Football Club offer reasonable rates for their unique location and family-friendly amenities. This makes it an excellent option for families looking for an engaging and affordable stay, especially those interested in football.
10. Caring Hotel
Overview of the Hotel
The Caring Hotel is a budget-friendly, family-run hotel located in Bayswater. Renowned for its warm service and comfortable accommodation, this 3-star hotel offers a home-away-from-home experience that appeals to families.
Key Family-Friendly Features
The Caring Hotel offers a selection of family rooms that accommodate different family sizes. The rooms are equipped with basic amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The hotel also provides a complimentary breakfast, giving families a convenient start to their day. Its reception is open 24 hours, offering flexibility for families with different schedules.
Location and Accessibility to Tourist Attractions
The Caring Hotel boasts a prime location just a short walk from Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, offering ample opportunities for family outings. It is also within walking distance of Paddington Station, providing convenient links to other parts of London. Key attractions such as the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum are a short tube ride away.
Price Range
The Caring Hotel offers one of the most competitive prices in the area. Its warm hospitality, comfortable rooms, and prime location provide exceptional value for families seeking budget-friendly accommodation in the heart of London.
Comparison Chart
| Hotel Name | Amenities | Location | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Garden Hotel | Family rooms, cribs, kids’ menu, proximity to the park | Kensington | High |
| The Mandeville Hotel | Family rooms, cribs, kids’ menu | Marylebone | Mid-high |
| Pestana Chelsea Bridge Hotel | Family rooms, heated pool, kids’ menu | Chelsea | Mid |
| Hotel Lily | Family rooms, complimentary breakfast | Earl’s Court | Low |
| The Rembrandt | Family rooms, kids under 16 stay free, kids’ menu, indoor pool | South Kensington | Mid |
| NYX Hotel London Holborn by Leonardo Hotels | Family rooms, indoor pool, babysitting services, kids’ menu | Holborn | Mid-high |
| K West Hotel & Spa | Family rooms, spa, kids’ menu | West London | Mid-high |
| Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington | Family rooms, kids under 12 stay free, kids’ menu | Kensington | Mid |
| Millennium & Copthorne Hotels at Chelsea Football Club | Family rooms, stadium tours, kids’ menu | Chelsea | Mid |
| Caring Hotel | Family rooms, complimentary breakfast | Bayswater | Low |
Note: The price categories are relative and may vary depending on the season, room type, and other factors. Always check the latest prices and availability with the hotels directly.
Extra Tips for Traveling with Family in London
Transportation
Public transportation in London is excellent and very family-friendly. The Tube (underground) and buses are easy to navigate, and children under 11 travel free on most services with an adult. For hassle-free travel, consider purchasing an Oyster card for each family member above 11 years.
Dining Options
London boasts various dining options to cater to all tastes and dietary requirements. Many restaurants offer kids’ menus and high chairs. However, checking in advance for specific needs is always a good idea. Food in popular tourist areas can be pricey, so explore local markets and off-the-beaten-path neighbourhoods for authentic and affordable meals.
Activities
London is filled with family-friendly activities. Plan your itinerary keeping in mind the interests of all family members. Mix cultural visits to museums and historical sites with fun activities such as parks, playgrounds, or interactive exhibitions. London’s many parks offer an excellent opportunity for relaxation and play between sightseeing.
Safety
London is generally safe, but like any major city, it’s essential to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas. Make sure your children know what to do in case they get lost.
Accommodation
When booking accommodation, consider the proximity to public transport and the attractions you plan to visit. A central location can save travel time and make the trip more enjoyable. Consider booking accommodations with extra amenities like swimming pools or family entertainment options for more comfort and fun if your budget allows.
Weather
London’s weather can be unpredictable. Packaging layers and always carrying an umbrella or raincoat for sudden showers are good ideas. Remember, many of London’s attractions are outdoors, so plan accordingly.
These tips should help make your family trip to London enjoyable and stress-free. Remember, the most important thing is having fun and creating lasting family memories.
Conclusion
Choosing suitable accommodation is crucial to a successful family trip. With its rich history, world-class attractions, and diverse culinary scene, London offers many options that cater to families. Whether you’re looking for luxury, value for money or a unique stay at a football club’s grounds, a family-friendly hotel in London fits the bill.
Also Read: TOP-10 Birmingham SPA Hotels
This article has explored ten of the best family-friendly hotels in London, considering factors such as amenities, location, and price range. From the luxurious Royal Garden Hotel in Kensington to the budget-friendly Caring Hotel in Bayswater, these hotels offer a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets.
But your accommodation is just the starting point. Consider transportation, dining, activities, safety, and weather when planning your trip. London’s excellent public transportation, diverse dining options, and wealth of family-friendly activities promise an enriching and memorable experience for the whole family.
So, take the leap, consider these hotel options, and plan your unforgettable family trip to London. Here’s to an adventure that will create lasting memories for you and your loved ones!
Call to Action
Your input and experiences are invaluable to our community of travellers and us. Have you stayed at any of these family-friendly hotels in London? Or perhaps you’ve discovered other great options during your travels? We’d love to hear from you. Share your experiences, tips, and recommendations in the comments section below.
Exploring London with your family is an adventure filled with countless possibilities. If you want more information to help plan your trip, check out our other articles and resources on the site. From guides on London’s top attractions to tips on navigating the city with children, we have a wealth of information to assist you in your journey.
Remember, the key to a memorable trip is in the planning. So, why wait? Dive into our resources, share your thoughts, and let’s make your next family trip to London the best yet!
Leave feedback about this