Things to do in London if your child loves cars and buses

London is a fantastic city for young car and vehicle enthusiasts, offering a wide array of activities and destinations that will ignite their passion for all things automotive. From exploring fascinating museums filled with historic and modern vehicles to spotting supercars on the bustling streets, there are countless ways to delight kids who love cars and buses. Whether it’s the thrill of go-karting, the excitement of a Formula E race, or the joy of riding the iconic red double-decker buses, London provides an endless variety of experiences that cater to every young gearhead’s dreams. This blog post highlights some of the best things to do in London with kids who are passionate about cars and other vehicles, ensuring a memorable and fun-filled adventure for the whole family.

If your child also loves trains, then make sure you check out our separate post with ideas on train-related things to do in London.

Visit the London Transport Museum

The London Transport Museum, located in the heart of Covent Garden, is a paradise for kids who love cars and all forms of transportation. This fascinating museum takes visitors on a journey through the evolution of London’s transport system, from horse-drawn buses to the iconic red double-deckers and modern-day Tube trains. Children can climb aboard historic vehicles and explore interactive exhibits. With engaging displays that highlight how transportation has shaped the city’s development, the London Transport Museum offers an educational and entertaining experience that will captivate young vehicle enthusiasts and their families alike.

F1 arcade

The F1 Arcade in One New Change offers a thrilling, high-octane experience for kids who love cars and racing. Situated near St. Paul’s Cathedral, this cutting-edge venue combines the excitement of Formula 1 with the latest in arcade gaming technology. Young racing enthusiasts age 7+ can step into state-of-the-art simulators that replicate the adrenaline-pumping action of driving an F1 car on world-famous circuits. The immersive environment, complete with realistic graphics and sound effects, provides an unparalleled racing experience that is both fun and educational. Kids will be captivated by the dynamic and interactive atmosphere of the F1 Arcade. Note that after 6pm the venue has a strict 18+ age policy.

Go karting at F1 Drive

For kids who aren’t content with a simulation, take the kids to F1 Drive, at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. F1 Drive offers an exciting opportunity for young car enthusiasts (aged 8+) to get behind the wheel and feel the thrill of racing. The indoor track is designed to provide a challenging and fun driving experience, with sharp turns and long straights that mimic the excitement of a real Formula 1 race. Whether they’re racing against family or friends, kids will love the adrenaline rush and competitive spirit fostered at F1 Drive, making it a perfect destination for a memorable and action-packed day out.

Ride different style buses

Riding various styles of buses in London can be an exciting adventure for kids who love vehicles, offering a unique way to explore the city while experiencing different types of transportation. London’s iconic red double-decker buses provide a fantastic vantage point from the top deck, giving children a bird’s-eye view of bustling streets and famous landmarks. Various styles of buses run on the London bus network, so try and take a variety of routes and see which style of bus you prefer.

In addition to the current buses in operation Londoner Buses run a heritage route on old style Routemaster buses between Trafalgar Square and Tower Hill. They are a private operator and so do not accept Oyster and is not part of the TfL network.

Each bus journey reveals a new perspective of London, making the simple act of commuting a thrilling part of the adventure, and sparking curiosity about the city’s rich history and diverse modes of transport. Make sure you check out our post on the best apps to download before visiting London to see our suggestions for apps that will help you navigate buses in London.

High-end car dealerships

Visiting high-end car dealerships in London can be an exhilarating experience for kids who love cars, offering a rare glimpse at some of the most luxurious and powerful vehicles in the world. Dealerships such as the Ferrari showroom in South Kensington, the Bentley dealership in Mayfair, and the McLaren showroom in Knightsbridge showcase an array of stunning supercars and luxury vehicles that will leave young car enthusiasts in awe. While some dealerships are more accommodating about allowing non-customers to step inside and get a closer look, it’s best to approach these visits with the expectation of window shopping. Peering through the glass at these magnificent machines is thrilling in itself, and any opportunity to get closer is a delightful bonus. This way, the experience remains positive and exciting, whether viewing the sleek lines of a Lamborghini or the timeless elegance of a Rolls-Royce.

Spot supercars out in the wild

For kids who adore supercars, London’s streets offer a vibrant, real-life showroom of luxury vehicles in some of the city’s most glamorous neighbourhoods. The best places to spot these high-end cars include Mayfair, Knightsbridge, and around the iconic Harrods department store. Park Lane and Sloane Street are particularly famous for their frequent displays of Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and Bugattis, often seen parked outside five-star hotels or cruising by luxury boutiques. Summer months are especially prime for supercar spotting, as wealthy visitors flock to the city, bringing their impressive collections of exotic vehicles.

If you are arriving into St Pancras or King’s Cross look out for the pink McLaren that is often parked outside the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel.

Whilst seeing supercars can’t be guaranteed, treat your day in London like an urban safari, and you might be rewarded with a few sightings.

Attend a Formula E race

Attending a Formula E race in London is an electrifying experience for kids who love cars and racing. Held one weekend a year on the streets of the capital, these races feature cutting-edge electric vehicles that combine high-speed thrills with eco-friendly technology. The London E-Prix, usually held at the ExCeL London in the Docklands, transforms the area into a buzzing hub of motorsport excitement. Spectators can enjoy close-up views of the futuristic cars as they zip through the city’s streets, navigating tight corners and long straights at breathtaking speeds. The event often includes fan zones, interactive displays, and opportunities to meet the drivers, making it a family-friendly outing that immerses kids in the world of high-tech, sustainable racing. Attending a Formula E race offers a unique blend of sport, innovation, and environmental consciousness, inspiring the next generation of automotive enthusiasts.

Regent Street Motor show

Visiting the Regent Street Motor Show with kids is an unforgettable experience for young car enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to see a wide range of vehicles up close in one of London’s most famous streets. Held annually, this free event transforms Regent Street into a bustling celebration of motoring, featuring everything from vintage classics to the latest supercars and eco-friendly electric vehicles. Children can marvel at the beautifully restored vintage cars, interact with cutting-edge automotive technology, and even meet the people who maintain and drive these incredible machines.

How do I find all of these places?

Want easy access on the go to all of these ideas? We’ve created a Google Map with everything marked for you:

[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/2/embed?mid=1ZO4NlLTO77yQFtYgr3K_jhiMv974wg4&ehbc=2E312F&w=640&h=480]

Know a great way to make a car and bus fan happy in London that we haven’t mentioned? Share it in the comments!