London is one of the most well-equipped cities for an epic family holiday. With a wealth of cultural sights, sprawling parks, world-class museums and galleries, the city is brimming with activities for every age.
Add to that cosmopolitan dining that pleases even the fussiest eaters, an all-day energy and excellent public transport with great links for quick day trips outside of the city, and London offers a playground for both children and adults.
While there are endless ways to fill your vacation, choosing the right hotel makes all the difference. The best family stays go beyond providing young ones with cots and high chairs and ensure parents can still indulge in the luxuries they seek. To take the guesswork out of where to check in, here’s a curated list of the hotels redefining elevated hospitality for the brood.
The Goring
Moments from Buckingham Palace, Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star The Goring has a playful spirit that makes it ideal for families, with thoughtful touches that create a magical stay. Children enjoy personalized activities such as cake decorating and dedicated dining options, alongside a special room service menu tailored just for them. The Goring’s famous Dressing Up Box lets them transform into fairy princesses, beefeaters or even Harry Potter characters as they roam the hotel. When parents want a few hours off, there’s a trusted babysitting service on hand, too.
The Berkeley
Sitting smartly in Knightsbridge, Five-Star The Berkeley is as stylish as it is family-friendly. The rooftop pool is one of London’s most coveted and delights all ages. Children staying here are made to feel special as soon as they check in, with a welcome surprise of customized treats. Plenty of other amenities make family stays seamless: rooms come stocked with organic baby products, bottle warmers, children’s robes and game consoles. Be sure to use the hotel’s children’s concierge service, which can procure theater tickets, arrange museum visits and curate fun-filled experiences within the hotel itself.
Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park, London and Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London
Five-Star Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park turns children into explorers with its Little Ranger Adventures program. Kids choose whether to become a Sloane ranger, which includes an outing to Harrods with the toy concierge; a royal ranger, which features a monarchy-focused tour of the city; or a park ranger, which comes with a trip to Hyde Park. No matter which they select, all kids receive a treasure hunt map, a chest with toys and costumes, and popcorn and other gifts for an in-room movie night.
Expectant mothers should visit its sister property in Mayfair for a retreat. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair’s 90-minute Mother-To-Be Ritual begins with a soothing back massage before moving into gentle leg brushing to boost circulation and ease fatigue. A tailored “Bump Facial” follows, designed to soften the skin, ease itchiness and help prevent stretch marks, before concluding with a nourishing facial using all-natural Seed to Skin Tuscany products.
One Aldwych
Four-Star One Aldwych is on the doorstep of London’s most iconic West End theaters, as well as museums and attractions such as the London Transport Museum, National Gallery and British Museum. Spacious suites overlook the city lights, while inside, little touches like children’s bathrobes and slippers and baby amenities make younger guests feel right at home. The hotel’s Charlie & the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea is a highlight, with snozzberry jam, chocolate swudge milkshakes and whimsical treats straight from Willy Wonka. Children can also enjoy splash time in the stunning 59-foot swimming pool, which has underwater music and aquatic-themed projections during family-friendly hours.
The Peninsula London
On the edge of Hyde Park Corner, Four-Star The Peninsula London offers vast, light-filled suites that conveniently accommodate multigenerational stays. The standout experience is the hotel’s Children’s Adventure Quest, which transforms sightseeing into a thrilling mission. Budding secret agents ages six and up set off with parents or a Peninsula guide on a whirlwind journey to London landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, the Thames and Downing Street, before the trek ends with a well-earned afternoon tea in The Lobby.
11 Cadogan Gardens
This charming Forbes Travel Guide Recommended hotel promises even the littlest VIPs feel pampered from arrival. The hotel’s Family Fun Getaway surprises children with a cozy teepee, sweet treats and a mini library basket full of bedtime stories and games. A custom turndown service includes milk and cookies alongside child-sized bathrobes and slippers. At the Hans’ Bar & Grill, kids eat free when dining with a parent.
