Top Value Reviews

30 Best Family-Friendly Hotels in London 2020

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With all of its parks and museums, London is a wonderful city to visit with children. But as easy as it is to fill a London itinerary with castles, shows, picnics, and world-class museums, it’s not as easy to find the right hotel. That’s why we scoured the city to find the very best London hotels for families traveling with young children. To narrow down London’s hundreds of hotels to only 30, we took into consideration many factors including: location, price (London is one of the most expensive cities in the world!), food options both onsite and nearby, and unique child-friendly features and accommodations.

The Ampersand Hotel


Located Less Than a Mile From: Natural History Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum, Hyde Park, Gloucester Road

Families looking to escape London’s busiest parts will be pleased by the location of The Ampersand Hotel. Located on a quiet street near “Museum Mile,” The Ampersand is a mere two minutes’ walk from both the Natural History Museum and the Victoria & Albert Museum. The rooms are all uniquely designed with comfort in mind. Options include deluxe studios and suites, both of which include small kitchenettes, fold-out beds, and the option of interconnecting. The Ampersand also boasts a game room chock full of fun children’s games.

The Athenaeum


Located Less Than a Mile From: St. James’s Park, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park, Green Park, Buckingham Palace, Clarence House

Let’s start with location. The luxurious Athenaeum hotel has one of the best locations in London. It’s within easy walking distance of three of the most idyllic parks in the city (read: three perfect options for letting off steam). The Athenaeum offers a variety of guest rooms suitable for families, many of which include park views. There is also a dedicated children’s concierge on staff who can direct you towards must-do activities or provide you with DVDs, snacks, and even football (soccer) balls.

Café Royal


Located Less Than a Mile From: Theatreland, Buckingham Palace, British Museum, Bond and Oxford Streets

Nestled between Soho and Mayfair, this classic London building was recently reopened as a luxurious, 5-star hotel. Families have their choice of 160 guest rooms, 61 of which are multi-room suites. The hotel offers a wide selection of eateries onsite, including:

  • the Oscar Wilde Lounge
  • the Grill & Sushi Bar
  • renowned chef Laurent Tourondel’s Laurent at Café Royal

Those traveling with young children will appreciate Café Royal’s close proximity to some of London’s most popular sites. These include the British Museum, Buckingham Palace, and the high-end shops of Oxford Street and Bond Street. There is a pool onsite and babysitting services can be arranged for an additional charge.

The Chesterfield Mayfair


Located Less Than a Mile From: Hyde Park, Green Park, Oxford Street, Bond Street, Buckingham Palace

Families eager to experience traditional, Downton Abbey-style Britain will love The Chesterfield Mayfair. It’s luxurious and modern, yet comfortable and traditional. The Mayfair is located near two of London’s most beautiful parks, plus Buckingham Palace and the shopping meccas of Oxford and Bond Streets. Families may choose between 94 uniquely designed guest rooms or 13 larger suites. Located in the hotel itself is the AA Rosette award-winning restaurant Butler’s. It offers a daily Traditional Afternoon Tea that’s been awarded the Tea Guild Award of Excellence three years in a row.

Comfort Inn Victoria


Located Less Than a Mile From: Buckingham Palace, Victoria Station

Families looking for an excellent location without the high prices should consider Comfort Inn Victoria. It’s located in Westminster Borough near Victoria Station and Buckingham Palace. Comfort Inn Victoria offers guest rooms as large as triples and quadruples — ideal for the large family or a group of friends. Though this type of hotel doesn’t cater to its youngest guests in the same way some of the other listed hotels do, Comfort Inn Victoria is a clean, safe, and very well located option for those visiting London with kids.

Ham Yard Hotel


Located Less Than a Mile From: Piccadilly Circus, Theatreland, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Parliament, London Eye

The Soho-based Ham Yard Hotel is both colorful and elegant, a delight for kids and parents alike. The hotel is located within walking distance of a number of London’s major sites, and practically right next to the Piccadilly Circus Tube Station. A number of guest room types are available, including a suite with a terrace and another suite with an additional bedroom. Interconnecting rooms can also be arranged, as can babysitting services. Kids are doted upon at Ham Yard. Kids-only perks include:

  • miniature bathrobes
  • access to board games in their room
  • milk and cookies come bedtime

There’s even a 1950s-era bowling alley right on site!

Haymarket Hotel


Located Less Than a Mile From: The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, Theatreland, Piccadilly Circus, Big Ben, London Eye, Buckingham Palace, Parliament

The luxurious, five-star Haymarket Hotel is anything but pretentious. The whole family will love the Haymarket’s colorful designs, quirky decor, and overall sense of comfort. Families have a variety of rooms to choose from, including:

  • deluxe rooms
  • larger suites
  • two-bedroom suites
  • five-bedroom townhouses

Once checked in, the Haymarket Hotel bends over backward for kids. Children receive kid-sized bathrobes and slippers, London-themed activity books, and even their own set of toiletries. The indoor swimming pool is lit up with funky colors, and free inflatable pool toys are offered to kids. At bedtime, the hotel’s youngest guests receive freshly baked cookies with milk. Think it can’t get better? The Haymarket Hotel is also located within a mile from many of London’s most famous sites.

Hotel 41


Located Less Than a Mile From: Victoria Station, Buckingham palace, St. James Theatre, Westminster Cathedral, Big Ben, St. James’s Park

The staff at Hotel 41 outnumber the guests two to one. If that isn’t a hotel feature that’s appealing to parents traveling with children, we don’t know what is. Comprised of 30 luxurious black-and-white themed rooms and suites, Hotel 41 offers a variety of services that set it apart from the rest, including:

  • complimentary snacks like freshly baked scones
  • babysitting services
  • two onsite restaurants

The Victoria Tube Station is .2 miles away, while various theaters, St. James’s Park, Big Ben, Piccadilly Circus, and Trafalgar Square are all less than a mile away.

The Landmark London


Located Less Than a Mile From: Madame Tussauds, London Planetarium, Marble Arch, Hyde Park

It’s no secret that London hotel rooms tend to be on the smaller side, even at the swankiest of the swanky hotels. Families hoping to score a decent-sized space should look into The Landmark London, where the least expensive rooms measure in at nearly 600 square feet, enough room to comfortably sleep two adults and two children. At check-in, children receive a welcome pack containing kid-sized bathrobes and slippers. Families traveling with infants can also receive baby bathtubs, bottle warmers, and high chairs on request. For families expecting to spend a considerable amount of time at the hotel, The Landmark offers a unique Family Escape package, complete with a children’s tent for playing.

The Lanesborough


Located Less Than a Mile From: Green Park, Buckingham Palace, Harrods, Hyde Park, Piccadilly Circus

When it comes to London hotels, you get what you pay for, and when you pay for a stay at The Lanesborough, you get total luxury. The hotel is located within walking distance of both Green Park and Hyde Park, so getting kids to play and burn off steam is a breeze. Inside the hotel are 93 luxurious guest rooms. Some of these are large enough to hold multiple bedrooms and/or separate dining rooms, living rooms, and kitchenettes. Upon check-in, kids receive welcome gifts including:

  • bathrobes
  • slippers
  • snacks
  • books
  • games

Guests also have access to a 24-hour butler to satisfy any other needs during their stay.

The London EDITION

Located Less Than a Mile From: Regent Street, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, Theatreland

No matter where you need to go, The London EDITION is a convenient home base from which to get there. This beautiful hotel is located a mere .3 miles from three different tube stations:

  • Tottenham Court Road
  • Oxford Circus
  • Goodge Street

It’s just a 15-20 minute walk from The British Museum, Hyde Park, and Madame Tussauds, amongst other popular London sites. The EDITION features:

  • 173 guest rooms
  • a Michelin-starred restaurant onsite
  • free WiFi

Nanny and babysitting services can also be arranged through the hotel’s concierge.

Luna Simone Hotel


Located Less Than a Mile From: Victoria Station, Tate Britain, Buckingham Palace, Parliament, Big Ben

The Luna Simone Hotel is family-run, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that this boutique hotel knows how to welcome children and their families. Located in Westminster Borough, the budget-friendly Luna Simone is situated within easy walking distance to Victoria train, bus, and underground stations. Families can reserve a single, double, or triple room, and all reservations include English and Continental breakfast options.

Marriott West India Quay


Located Less Than a Mile From: O2 Arena, Canary Wharf, Docklands, Olympic Park

Marriott hotels are well known for their family friendliness, and London’s Marriott West India Quay is no exception. The hotel is located in the Canary Wharf area. It’s fewer than three miles from:

  • parks
  • the Tower of London
  • Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre

The nearest tube station is a mere five minutes’ walk away. Families may choose from a variety of room options, nearly all of which tend to be a bit larger than the typical London average. The Marriott also boasts two onsite restaurants, a full gym, and stunning views of London’s business district.

Melia White House


Located Less Than a Mile From: London Planetarium, Madame Tussauds

Melia is a trusted hotel brand, and parents can feel good about booking their London stay at Melia White House. The hotel’s location is an easy walk from the tube station, and within two miles of major sites like:

  • Hyde Park
  • Trafalgar Square
  • Piccadilly Circus
  • Buckingham Palace
  • Big Ben

Kid-friendly sites like Regent’s Park and the London Zoo are also within easy access of Melia White House. A wide variety of room types are available to suit any budget. Kids’ perks include:

  • babysitting services and a kids club
  • a voucher for free ice cream
  • cookies and milk come bedtime.

The Milestone


Located Less Than a Mile From: Kensington Palace, Gloucester Road, Hyde Park

Not only has The Milestone been mentioned by various sources as a family-friendly place, it has also been voted by Condé Nast Traveler readers as one of the best hotels in the city overall. We’d definitely have to agree with that assessment. Located in an especially idyllic part of London, The Milestone is within easy walking distance to Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. Both of these are great places for kids to play and burn off some steam. The hotel itself caters to families by offering:

  • 24-hour butler services
  • homemade cookies
  • free interactive television loaded with kids’ television and movies

If it suits your child’s fancy, be sure to ask for the room with the gorgeous vintage dollhouse!

The Nadler Victoria


Located Less Than a Mile From: Buckingham Palace, Victoria Station, Westminster Cathedral, St. James’s Park, Churchill War Rooms, Parliament, Big Ben, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, London Eye

The Nadler Victoria hotel is a superb budget option with a fantastic location. Families willing to walk up to one mile can visit many of London’s most popular sites without ever having to hop on the tube. Though the rooms in The Nadler Victoria are typical London-small, many include small kitchenettes ideal for families with young children. While there are not onsite restaurants, the hotel is located within walking distance to a number of options, including an affordable bakery.

The Ned


Located Less Than a Mile From: St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London

Its name may be simple, but don’t get the wrong impression. The Ned is gorgeous. This family friendly hotel features 252 guest rooms, including some large suites with and without balconies. Children will love the elegant hotel’s many features, including a stunning indoor swimming pool and eight onsite restaurants serving everything from Italian food to British staples. Parents, on the other hand, are sure to appreciate The Ned’s close proximity to:

  • the tube
  • St. Paul’s Cathedral
  • the Tower of London.

Nobu Hotel Shoreditch


Located Less Than a Mile From: Tower of London

Children are sure to love a lot of things about Nobu Hotel Shoreditch, starting with the building’s incredibly unique exterior architecture. Inside, the hotel boasts 150 uniquely designed guest rooms, including some larger suites. Though it’s located in London’s vibrant business district and about one mile from Tower of London, Nobu is a quick walk to Liverpool Street Station and Old Street station. Fun fact: actor Robert de Niro co-founded the Nobu brand. Because of this connection, the Nobu Hotel Shoreditch is a popular choice of accommodation for many actors and musicians.

Park International Hotel


Located Less Than a Mile From: Gloucester Road, Natural History Museum

Park International Hotel is a budget-friendly option that feels upscale. The hotel’s Victorian-style rooms have been carefully designed to feel bright and elegant. Families will enjoy all of the comforts this hotel has to offer, including its close proximity to Hyde Park, the free WiFi available throughout. It also features a free breakfast, which is practically unheard of in London.

Park Plaza County Hall


Located Less Than a Mile From: Big Ben, Parliament, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, London Aquarium, London Eye

The Park Plaza County Hall is an excellent family-friendly hotel located in one of London’s best locations. Major sites like the London Eye, Piccadilly Circus, and Big Ben are all within just a few minutes’ walking distance. The hotel itself offers budget-friendly family studios complete with kitchenettes and sofa beds. Upon check-in, kids receive a fun welcome pack, and on Saturdays, the hotel hosts a pizza-making masterclass for its youngest guests. Another major benefit: kids under age 12 stay at the Park Plaza County Hall for free, while those older than 12 stay for a discounted rate.

Premier Inn London Waterloo


Located Less Than a Mile From: London Aquarium, London Eye, Big Ben, Parliament, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus

The Premier Inn London Waterloo may not be fancy, but it is clean, comfortable, budget- and family-friendly, and located in a great spot. The hotel’s 234 rooms range from single to quadruple, with disability accessible rooms also available. An onsite restaurant serves classic English pub fare, while breakfast is free for children under 16. Perhaps most appealing, however, is the Premier Inn’s convenient location within walking distance of:

  • the London Eye
  • Parliament and Big Ben
  • Trafalgar Square
  • Piccadilly Circus.

The Ritz


Located Less Than a Mile From: Piccadilly Circus, Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Park, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Parliament, London Eye

Arguably, The Ritz is the most famous hotel in London. What’s more certain, however, is that The Ritz is one of the city’s most family-friendly hotels. The hotel, which is located in a prime spot next to St. James’s Park, offers a series of suite options. Children up to age 15 can stay for free if traveling with their parents. For younger children, the hotel offers its Kidz@The Ritz program, a unique series of services designed especially for younger guests. Through this program, kids receive:

  • age-appropriate welcome gifts
  • free ice cream from the hotel’s two onsite restaurants
  • before-bed snacks
  • books and DVDs for entertainment
  • in-room game consoles.

Rocco Forte Brown’s Hotel


Located Less Than a Mile From: Savile Row, Hamley’s Toy Store, Piccadilly Circus, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Parliament

Located in the Mayfair neighborhood of Westminster Borough, Brown’s Hotel is an elegant, 5-star hotel that caters to families. Many of the Brown’s suites are interconnectable — ideal for larger families traveling together or in need of a larger space. Children often arrive at the hotel to find that their sheets feature fun designs like princesses or pirates, and that their room contains monogrammed cookies, picture books, and play tents. The Brown’s concierges are well versed in all things children, and will point families in the direction of interesting nearby sites like the world-famous Hamley’s Toy Store. Fun fact: author Rudyard Kipling wrote much of The Jungle Book while staying at Brown’s Hotel.

Royal Garden Hotel


Located Less Than a Mile From: Kensington Palace, Royal Albert Hall, Hyde Park

Not only will the Royal Garden Hotel cater to children you’re traveling with, they’ll also help you fill in your London itinerary. The hotel employs a duo known as Sharky and George, a concierge-type service that can organize everything from Mary Poppins tours to city scavenger hunts. Before heading out to nearby Hyde Park, Sharky and George will lend you free Micro Scooters. Finally, kids aren’t likely to go hungry while staying at Royal Garden Hotel. Afternoon tea features chocolate scones and peanut butter and jelly, while free milkshakes can be acquired from the downstairs restaurant. Want to stay in for the night? Book the hotel’s Flicks and Food option, featuring unlimited in-room movie access, popcorn, and floats.

The Royal Horseguards


Located Less Than a Mile From: Trafalgar Square, London Eye, Big Ben, Parliament, Piccadilly Circus, Buckingham Palace

Located at Number 2 Whitehall, The Royal Horseguards hotel is a luxurious, 5-star hotel that dates back to 1884. Families have more than 100 guest rooms to choose from, including various family rooms decked out with kids’ television channels, board games, and puzzles. While all of the hotels on our list have excellent city locations, The Royal Horseguards’ location really can’t be beat. Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, Big Ben, and Piccadilly Circus are all located less than a half mile from the hotel. Visit the concierge to book offered activities like:

  • horseback riding
  • hiking
  • walking tours
  • classes on local culture

Fun fact: this picturesque hotel is a popular filming location, and has appeared in such movies and television programs as Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Downton Abbey, The Constant Gardener, and various James Bond films.

The Rubens at the Palace


Located Less Than a Mile From: Buckingham Palace, St. James Theatre, St. James’s Park, Parliament, Big Ben, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square

Westminster Borough is one of London’s most idyllic neighborhoods for families, and The Rubens at the Palace is one of the best hotels in Westminster. This beautiful boutique-style hotel overlooks Buckingham Palace, and is located less than a mile from a slew of popular sites and tube stations. A variety of rooms offer all sorts of comforts, and babysitting arrangements can be made through the hotel. If your itinerary needs some filling in, be sure to chat with the Director of Fun and Adventure, who can point you in the direction of kid-friendly activities citywide. The Rubens offers two onsite restaurants, The English Grill and The Curry, which serve traditional British and Indian fare, respectively. Kids under 12 eat for free whilst dining with an adult.

St. Ermin’s Hotel


Located Less Than a Mile From: St. James’s Park, Westminster Abbey, Churchill War Rooms, Buckingham palace, Parliament, Big Ben, Victoria Station, Trafalgar Square, London Eye, Piccadilly Circus

Just look at how many of London’s most popular attractions are located within one mile of St. Ermin’s Hotel! But just in case that long list doesn’t do much to impress you, consider the following. This luxurious Westminster-based family-friendly hotel offers its youngest guests an illustrated picture book upon check in. Lots of activities are available for both kids and families, and provide ample entertainment for days spent at the hotel. Should parents wish for time away from their brood, babysitting services are easily arranged through the concierge.

St. James’s Hotel and Club


Located Less Than a Mile From: Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Park, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Parliament, London Eye

Though it’s one of the priciest options on our list, the St. James’s Hotel and Club is definitely one of the most family-friendly hotels in London. Room options vary from superior rooms with a single double bed to two-bedroom signature suites. Extra beds can be arranged in most rooms, as can interconnecting rooms. Be sure to book an afternoon tea time at the hotel, as it’s a unique board game-inspired tea that will delight both kids and adults. Speaking of entertaining children, one of the hotel’s most appealing features is its dedicated kids’ concierge, who routinely directs guests to unique experiences like Tudor-era ships and ceramic art classes.

Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites & Residences


Located Less Than a Mile From: Parliament, Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, London Eye

You may need a slightly bigger budget for this one, but you won’t be disappointed with your family’s stay at Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites & Residences. As its full name suggests, Taj 51 offers only suites. Most of the suites are comprised of more than one room, and all have some amusing name like “Jaguar” or “Falconers.” Families will appreciate features like the in-room kitchenettes, while kids are sure to love the miniature slippers and robes. There is also a complimentary Kids @ Taj program that provides the hotel’s youngest guests with things like fun bedtime treats and crayons. Taj 51 is conveniently located less than a half mile from Victoria Underground Station, and an easy walk to popular sites such as:

  • Piccadilly Circus
  • the London Eye
  • Big Ben
  • St. James’s Park.

Ten Manchester Street


Located Less Than a Mile From: Madame Tussauds, London Planetarium, Bond Street, Marble Arch, Hyde Park, Piccadilly Circus

Ten Manchester Street is described as a “retreat,” which parents are sure to appreciate at the end of a long day exploring London with their little ones. Consisting of 44 guest rooms, Ten Manchester Street offers its guests such luxuries as:

  • free WiFi
  • flat-screen televisions
  • a smartphone  to make free local calls throughout their stay

The nearest tube station is less than a five-minute walk, while a slew of top London sites are all situated within a mile. Parents who need some time away can also book babysitting services through the hotel’s helpful concierge.