2 days in London with a 12 yr old

[Yoheresthestory]

Any recommendations of strange, wonderful, fun things to do with DS (12) in London? I used to live there so know all the big mainstream museums and activities but looking to fit as much stuff in as possible and am wondering if people can tell me any highlights for their 12yr old kids when they went?

Depends on the kid. Two of mine would happily spend a day visiting bookshops. All 3 love shows. Allow time for just hanging out and people watching. Thames taxi / bus. We did a great guided walking tour covering pirate history.

• Prince Charles cinema do sing-a-longs
• Shoreditch / Brick Lane street art tours
• Explore the Chinese supermarkets in China Town / Japan Centre nearby
• Walking tour of Highgate Cemetery
• The bathing ponds in Hampstead Heath (need to be a strong swimmer)
• https://www.walks.com/
• Check Airbnb ‘Experiences’ section
• Go to a restaurant with counter seating - Kiln is great (if they’re into Thai / spicy food), or Koya for udon
• Food Replica exhibition at Japan House
• Solid Light exhibition at Tate Modern
• Museum of Brands & Packaging

Some great ideas thank you! Regarding his personality, he’s not into anything musically, loves food of all kinds (Asian, spices etc) so food will feature heavily, he’s very sporty, loves fact over fiction (history is a strong interest), is moved by beautiful things (so things like the immersive experience might be good), loves to just chill milling about. And has never experienced London at all so might enjoy a few landmarks to say to his friends like London eye. He’s quite mature in general.

Tower of London and tower bridge

HMS Belfast if he is into history- not like a typical museum because it is all about climbing up and down narrow ladders and looking and ammunition

Southbank graffiti tunnels and skatepark, food from borough market

Graffiti tower to Imperial War Museum
Fire of London Monument then Tower of London
Day at Hampton Court
If he isn't into musicals I'd do the Show that How Wrong
Science/NHM/V&A
Tate Britain over the river and lunch / Dinner at Fridas (very good value for money mexican) riverboat / tube from Vauxhall or walk up the river to Southbank and Tate modern it's about 20/30 mins walk but across from House of Parliament so a nice walk
Riverboat to Greenwich for Cutty Sark, observatory and Planetarium (not sure that's still there), Naval museum hell recognize from Thor
Possibly pair with tickets yo a Royal Institute lecture and trip to China Town.

That should last you a week or so but are the things my teen D has enjoyed

Mudlarking by the Thames? I think that would be wonderful.

The Wembley Stadium tour is excellent. You'd need to factor in travel time to get there though so it may use up too much of the time you're spending in London.

You can’t do this. You have to have a licence!!!!!!!
But:
You could take a boat down the river from Westminster Pier to Greenwich and visit the Cutty Sark, The Old Observatory and the Greenwich Meridian Line and the Maritime Museum.
The Twist Museum on Oxford Street is great - full of optical illusions and they explain the science behind them as well.
Frameless at Marble Arch is a great way to experience art.
The Outernet as you come out of Tottenham Court Road Station is free and amazing. You need an hour to see the whole show.
I read yesterday that on certain days you can do a self guided tour of the Palace of Westminster but you have to book.

Sky garden is great (and free!) but you have to book tickets in advance really.

have a fab time

The "Novelty Automation" museum near Holborn.

www.novelty-automation.com

You can book onto a mudlarking tour/experience to get round the licence.

"Stranger things on stage" if they are a fan? Seen it twice now and it's amazing!!

Gpt Says

Day 1: Exploring Iconic London

Morning:

1. Tower of London • Explore the medieval castle, learn about its history, and marvel at the Crown Jewels. • Tip: Book tickets in advance to avoid queues.
2. Tower Bridge Experience • Walk across the glass floor and learn about the bridge’s engineering marvels.

Lunch:
• Poppies Fish & Chips (near Tower Hill)
• A traditional British meal that’s always a hit with kids.

Afternoon:
3. Thames River Cruise
• Hop on a sightseeing boat from Tower Pier to Westminster Pier.
• Enjoy views of landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the London Eye.
4. Westminster Highlights
• Walk to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
• Snap photos at Westminster Abbey.
5. Ride the London Eye
• Get a bird’s-eye view of the city from one of the most iconic observation wheels.

Dinner:
• Rainforest Café (Piccadilly Circus)
• A themed restaurant with animatronic animals and a fun jungle atmosphere.

Evening:
• Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square
• Enjoy the buzzing atmosphere and explore M&M’s World for a sweet treat.

Day 2: Fun, Learning, and Shopping

Morning:
1. Natural History Museum
• Perfect for kids, with its life-sized dinosaur skeletons, earthquake simulator, and hands-on exhibits.
• Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds.
2. Science Museum (next door)
• Interactive exhibits and a space section make this a hit with tweens.

Lunch:
• Pizza Express (South Kensington)
• A reliable option with kid-friendly choices.

Afternoon:
3. Covent Garden
• Watch street performers and browse unique shops.
• Check out the Harry Potter-themed shop at Platform 9¾ in King’s Cross nearby, if they’re a fan.
4. Hamleys Toy Store (Regent Street)
• One of the largest and most magical toy stores in the world.

Dinner:
• Burger & Lobster (Soho)
• A relaxed spot with kid-friendly options.

Evening:
• West End Show (Optional)
• Catch a family-friendly musical like Matilda, The Lion King, or Frozen.

Tips for Traveling with a 12-Year-Old in London:
• Use a contactless card or Oyster card for easy public transport.
• Pack snacks and a reusable water bottle.
• Check out the Visit London app for real-time updates on attractions and transport.

This itinerary ensures a mix of fun, culture, and memorable moments! Let me know if you’d like help booking tickets or adding any specific interests!

I don't think any of those AI suggestions come under the heading of "strange, wonderful, fun things to do". It's only suggesting standard tourist stuff.

Chinatown definitely, and Leicester square, Piccadilly Circus, etc are all within walking distance of there (you won’t need the tube)

What about one of these self-guided walking tours - just print them of the internet and off you go. It’s a good way to explore London

https://www.londonforfree.net/walks/

Of course you can go mudlarking. There are guided trips with foreshore permit holders.

Mine love having lunch in Camden and a roam around the markets.

Back to the future is a great show for that age group.

The sky garden is great for a few snaps and the experience, plus Leadenhall market is nearby which is where Harry Potter - bits of Diagon Alley - was filmed.

There's always loads of free stuff on. Have a look at what's trending on instagram - that gave me lots of tips last time.