Day out in London with one year old and family

[Lukesmammy]

Okay, I have recently moved down South from oop North and my parents and Sister are coming down to visit us this weekend.

We are planning a day out in London but haven't decided exactly whereabouts yet as I am looking for it to be as stress free as possible.

We will be travelling to central London via local train service, arriving at Charing Cross and I need help from you as to the best places to go with a one year old who gets very frustrated if expected to sit in his buggy for too long!

There will be me, DS, DH my Mam, Dad and Sis.
Among these are two history buffs, one is a will go anywhere and do anythign sort of person and two would be happy to do something cultural for a bit but would then would like to look at the obv. sights and of course a little one who requires entertainments!

I am also looking for recommendations for good places for lunch - i.e - generally child friendly with a menu that I can order baby friendly things from.

Any suggestions as to specific places to visit? What I really don't want to do is wander around aimlessly with each person not knowing where is best to go. Is it possible to have a stress free visit to London on a Saturday or am I being completely unrealistic??!!

You could cross the river at Charing Cross (there are lifts for buggies to get on the bridge) and walk along the south bank - lots of "sights" to admire along the way. The Aquarium is there too if you think your ds would be old enough to appreciate it. Lots of child-friendly restaurants along there too.

I'd recommend crossing over to the South Bank too. Go to the aquarium and/or London Eye, then Giraffe/Strada/Wagamama for lunch and keep walking towards Tate Modern. Go inside to look at pictures and coffee on 4th floor cafe. Maybe take a tour of the Globe theatre, if it is open?

You can get a train back to Charing cross from London Bridge if you don't want to retrace your steps.
It's really easy as there is no traffic, the toddler can walk or sit in pushchair as he wants and there are loads of places to stop off.

You are close to Trafalgar Square, so your little one could run around there. See the pigeons! And the big stone lions and fountains.

Across the river near the Eye, you can see Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, etc. Can recommend Giraffe restaurant for little ones. It's a nice walk to the Tate, and you could then cross the bridge there and in front of you is St Pauls Cathedral.

Many thanks all, some great suggestions here.

So sorry I haven't responded before now but my DH has been away for the past few days so have been very busy with my DS as he has a bit of a cold at the mo.

Had a quick peek at the Giraffe website and it does seem what I had in mind for lunch. Great idea re: the globe theatre too - right up the history buff street - i.e Me and My Dad!

Thanks again.