London with 2.5 year old

[Haveli]

Hi all,

My DH has to go to London at the end of next month for work. He's suggested that DD(2.5) and I go with him as we've not had a break away for a while. He has suggested we go for 3 days, and he would be working for 2 of them so then we would get a day all together the 3 of us.

I've not been to London for yonks but I was thinking we could do things like the science and history museum, perhaps watch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, visit Hamleys and maybe even do the Peppa afternoon tea experience. She's been in hospital recently so I'd like to treat her to a few days away that she would really love.

Could anyone recommend some toddler friendly things to do in London? Or am I being over ambitious and she's a bit young for it?

You've had some great advice on where to go on this thread already so won't add to it massively, except to say:

1. London is great for toddlers - there is loads to do and lots of it is free.
2. Sorted at the Postal museum is worth every penny and the museum is great too.
3. The Diana playground at kensington garden is lovely and you can take a picnic in
4. Don't try to fit in too much - and think about how you'll travel between places. The museum aren't great re station accessibility but people are generally helpful on the stairs. Other tubes have lifts and you can check in advance. Good to pick things near to each other rather than travelling across London which always takes longer than you'd think.
5. Have snacks always!

Re the bubble museum I actually wouldn't recommend it for super young kids. I took my 6 and 10 year olds and it was perfect for them but I'd say it was a bit loud and overwhelming for a toddler, with too many chances to get lost, and it's ££ too.

I live in Surrey and often take my toddler to London for the day out :
Mudlarks at the museum of London - book in advance for their play session
Canary Wharf - very child friendly (ie public toilets), and you can spend time on the DLR trains - my children love riding the DLR
Science museum
St james park has a playground
South bank has a playground

We live in zone 2 with a 2yo and spend pretty much every non-nursery day exploring the museums, galleries and parks. Life is like being on a permanent city break. Agree with most of the suggestions here, any of the museums with a good play area will be fun. At the end of April the weather will likely be mild (but always check forecasts and be prepared for rain), you can make the most of the parks or Thames Path.

Whatever museum you decide on, check the website to see if they're running any special events - there are often music or hands-on sessions. And try to get there for opening time as it tends to get busier through the day.