Cheaper or quieter alternatives to big London attractions

London’s iconic attractions are undoubtedly impressive, but they can also be expensive and overwhelmingly busy, especially when visiting with children. For families looking to explore the city without breaking the bank or battling large crowds, there are plenty of fantastic alternatives that offer equally enriching experiences. This guide is designed to help parents navigate London’s lesser-known gems, providing both budget-friendly options to replace costly ‘big ticket’ attractions and quieter alternatives to the city’s busiest sights. Whether you’re trying to stretch your vacation budget further or simply seeking a more relaxed way to introduce your kids to the wonders of London, these suggestions of alternatives to London attractions will help you craft a memorable family trip that’s gentler on your wallet and your nerves.

From hidden museums and secret gardens to off-the-beaten-path viewpoints and quirky attractions, we’ll show you how to experience the magic of London without the stress of its most popular tourist traps.

Instead of The Shard… try Horizon 22 or The Lookout

While the Shard offers breathtaking views of London, its high ticket prices and often crowded observation deck can be less than ideal for families. For equally impressive vistas without the hefty price tag or long queues, consider visiting Horizon 22 at 22 Bishopsgate or The Lookout at 8 Bishopsgate.

Horizon 22, located on the 58th floor, provides stunning 360-degree views of the city in a less crowded environment. It’s free to visit, though you’ll need to book a time slot in advance.

Alternatively, The Lookout, situated on the 50th floor, offers another free viewing platform with panoramic views of London’s skyline. Its lesser-known status means you’re likely to enjoy a more relaxed experience with a greater chance of getting tickets.

Both alternative options provide ample space for children to move around and explore, and their central locations make them easy to incorporate into your sightseeing plans. These alternatives allow families to enjoy spectacular London views without the expense and crowds associated with the Shard, creating a more enjoyable and stress-free experience for parents and children alike.

Instead of a hop-on hop-off bus tour… try and regular bus

While hop-on hop-off bus tours offer a convenient way to see London’s landmarks, they can be expensive and often crowded. For a more authentic and budget-friendly alternative, families can create their own sightseeing tour using regular London buses.

Many routes pass by iconic attractions, offering similar views at a fraction of the cost. For example, the number 26 offers an economical sightseeing journey between Liverpool Street and Victoria Station, showcasing some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Bank of England, St Paul’s Cathedral and Trafalgar Square and Big Ben.

Children under 11 travel free on all London buses, and adult fares are capped daily, making this an extremely cost-effective option. To make it more engaging for kids, turn it into a landmark-spotting game or use a map to track your journey.

This DIY approach allows for greater flexibility, avoids tourist crowds, and provides a genuine taste of London life while still taking in the city’s famous sights.

Instead of Kew Gardens… try the Barbican Conservatory

While Kew Gardens is renowned for its vast botanical collections, its size and ticket price can be daunting for families with young children. For a more compact and budget-friendly tropical experience, consider visiting the Barbican Conservatory in the heart of London.

The Barbican Conservatory is a hidden oasis within the iconic Brutalist architecture of the Barbican Centre and is home to over 1,500 species of tropical plants and trees, as well as exotic fish. The conservatory offers a lush, jungle-like atmosphere that kids will love exploring, with winding paths and secret corners to discover. Unlike Kew, the Barbican Conservatory is completely free to enter, though it’s only open on select days, usually Sundays and some bank holidays. Tickets need to be booked. Tickets are released every week on Fridays, up to one month in advance. A limited number of day tickets are released for online booking from 9.30am each day when the Conservatory is open.

The smaller size of the Barbican Conservatory makes it more manageable for families with little ones, and the indoor setting means it’s a perfect rainy-day activity. Plus, its central location makes it easy to combine with other City of London attractions. While it may not have the expansive grounds of Kew, the Barbican Conservatory provides a unique, immersive plant experience that’s both educational and enchanting for children, all without the hefty price tag or long treks between greenhouses.

Instead of a river cruise… try an Uber boat

While dedicated sightseeing cruises on the Thames can be expensive and often crowded, families can enjoy a similar experience at a fraction of the cost by taking an Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. These river bus services, part of London’s public transport network, offer a practical and budget-friendly way to see London from the water.

Unlike tourist cruises, Uber Boats are used by commuters and tourists alike, providing a more authentic London experience. The boats stop at many key landmarks along the river, including the London Eye, Tower Bridge, and Greenwich, allowing you to hop on and off as you please. Children will enjoy the excitement of speeding along the Thames, and the open-air rear deck is perfect for sightseeing and taking photos. While there’s no formal commentary, you can use a free app or pick up a river guide to learn about the sights you’re passing. Tickets are significantly cheaper than tourist cruises, and children under 5 travel free.

This alternative not only saves money but also offers greater flexibility, allowing families to explore London at their own pace while still enjoying the unique perspective of the city from its historic river.

Instead of the National Gallery or Tate Britain… try the Wallace Collection or Guildhall Art Gallery

While the National Gallery and Tate Britain are world-renowned art institutions, their vast collections and popularity can be overwhelming for families, especially those with young children. For a more manageable and equally enriching art experience, consider visiting the Wallace Collection or the Guildhall Art Gallery.

The Wallace Collection, housed in a beautiful historic townhouse in Marylebone, offers a stunning array of fine and decorative arts in a more intimate setting. The armour collection will captivate children, while parents can appreciate masterpieces by artists like Rembrandt and Velázquez. The museum’s smaller size makes it easier for families to explore at a leisurely pace, and admission is free.

Alternatively, the Guildhall Art Gallery in the City of London provides a fascinating mix of Victorian art and Roman history. Its compact size is perfect for shorter attention spans, and the surprise of a Roman amphitheatre in the basement adds an element of excitement for kids.

Both museums offer a quieter, less crowded environment than their famous counterparts, allowing families to engage more deeply with the art. They also frequently host family-friendly events and activities, making art accessible and enjoyable for visitors of all ages. These alternatives provide a high-quality art experience without the overwhelming scale and crowds of London’s larger galleries.

Instead of afternoon tea… try a picnic afternoon tea

While a classic London afternoon tea can be a delightful experience, it’s often expensive and may not be the most relaxing option with energetic children. For a more budget-friendly and flexible alternative, consider creating your own picnic afternoon tea.

A DIY approach allows you to enjoy the quintessential British tradition in a family-friendly, laid-back setting. Pick up some scones, jam, and clotted cream from a local bakery or supermarket, along with a selection of sandwiches and sweet treats. Marks and Spencer should stock all the components needed for a good afternoon tea. Don’t forget either a thermos of tea or a couple of cups purchased from the nearest coffee shop and some juice for the kids. Then, head to one of London’s beautiful parks or gardens, such as Hyde Park, Regent’s Park Kensington Gardens. Spread out a blanket and enjoy your tea al fresco. This option not only costs a fraction of a formal afternoon tea but also allows children the freedom to run off some steam between courses.

A picnic afternoon tea offers all the charm of this British tradition with the added benefits of fresh air, beautiful surroundings, and a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for families.

Instead of Tower Bridge… watch a bridge lift

While the Tower Bridge exhibition offers interesting insights into the bridge’s history and mechanics, it can be pricey and crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. For a unique and free alternative, consider timing your visit to witness a bridge lift instead.

The spectacular sight of the bridge’s bascules rising to allow tall ships to pass is both exciting and educational for children. The bridge lifts several times a week, and the schedule of Tower Bridge lift times is published in advance, allowing families to plan their visit accordingly. Find a good vantage point along the Thames Path or in Potters Fields Park for an unobstructed view. When the lift occurs, kids will be thrilled to see the massive structure in action, offering a memorable experience that brings the bridge’s purpose to life.

This alternative not only saves on admission fees but also provides a more dynamic and authentic encounter with one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Plus, the flexibility of viewing from various locations means you can easily combine this activity with other nearby attractions or a picnic in the park.

Instead of the British Museum… try The Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology

While the British Museum is a treasure trove of world history, its vast size and popularity can be overwhelming for families, especially those with younger children.

For a more intimate and manageable exploration of ancient Egyptian artifacts, consider visiting The Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology at University College London. This hidden gem houses an impressive collection of over 80,000 objects, rivalling the British Museum’s Egyptian collection in quality, if not in quantity.

The museum’s compact size makes it perfect for shorter attention spans, allowing children to engage more deeply with the exhibits without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Unlike the often crowded British Museum, the Petrie offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere where kids can get up close to ancient artifacts, including jewellery, and everyday items from ancient Egyptian life. Best of all, admission is free, making it a budget-friendly alternative.

While it may lack the grandeur of the British Museum, the Petrie Museum offers a focused, child-friendly dive into Egyptology that can be both more memorable and more educational for young history enthusiasts.

NB. Temporary improvement works mean the Petrie Museum is closed until 6 August 2024.

Instead of seeing a West End show… try an alternative theatrical experience

While West End shows can be a magical experience, they often come with hefty price tags and may be too long or overwhelming for younger children. Fortunately, London offers a variety of alternative theatrical experiences that are more budget-friendly and family-oriented.

Consider visiting the Unicorn Theatre in Southwark, which specialises in productions for young audiences, offering high-quality shows at more affordable prices.

In Covent Garden, don’t miss the Actor’s Church (St. Paul’s Church), which often hosts free lunchtime concerts and affordable theatre productions.

During summer, take advantage of outdoor theatre in parks like Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre or free performances at The Scoop near Tower Bridge. For a quintessentially British experience, look for local pantomimes during the holiday season – these interactive, humorous shows are perfect for families. Many fringe theatres also offer family-friendly productions at a fraction of West End prices.

By exploring these alternatives, families can enjoy London’s vibrant theatre scene without breaking the bank, while also experiencing performances more tailored to children’s interests and attention spans.

Instead of the Sky Garden… try the Garden at 120

While the Sky Garden offers spectacular views of London, its popularity often means limited availability and crowded viewing times. For a quieter and more relaxed elevated garden experience, families should consider visiting the Garden at 120.

Located atop 120 Fenchurch Street, the lesser-known Garden at 120 provides equally stunning 360-degree views of the city skyline, including landmarks like the Shard, the Walkie-Talkie, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Unlike the Sky Garden, the Garden at 120 is truly free, with no need to book in advance – simply turn up and take the lift to the 15th floor. The space is more intimate and less crowded, allowing children to explore freely and parents to relax. The garden features beautiful landscaping with seating areas, and a flowing water feature. Families are welcome to bring their own snacks to enjoy while taking in the views.

The Garden at 120 offers a peaceful, budget-friendly alternative for families to experience London from above without the stress of pre-booking or navigating large crowds.

Instead of the Tower of London… try walking its perimeter and attending the Ceremony of the Keys

While the Tower of London is a fascinating historical site, its high entrance fees and crowded interiors can be challenging for families. For a budget-friendly and equally enriching experience, consider walking the Tower’s perimeter and attending the Ceremony of the Keys.

A stroll around the outer walls allows you to admire the imposing architecture and soak in the atmosphere without the cost of entry. For a truly unique experience, book tickets (£5 per person and must be booked in advance) to the Ceremony of the Keys. This 700-year-old tradition of locking up the Tower takes place nightly at 9:53pm sharp. While it may be a bit late for very young children, older kids and teens will be captivated by the pageantry and historical significance. The ceremony lasts only about 30 minutes and offers an intimate glimpse into the Tower’s traditions without the daytime crowds.

By combining these experiences, families can engage with the Tower’s rich history and grandeur at their own pace, without the expense or potential overwhelm of a full interior tour.

Instead of the Natural History Museum… try the Horniman Museum or the Grant Museum of Zoology

While the Natural History Museum is undoubtedly impressive, its popularity often leads to long queues and crowded exhibits, which can be overwhelming for families with young children. For a more relaxed yet equally fascinating experience, consider visiting the Horniman Museum in Forest Hill or the Grant Museum of Zoology in Bloomsbury.

The Horniman Museum offers a diverse collection of natural history, anthropology, and musical instruments, set in beautiful gardens with a butterfly house and animal walk. Its hands-on approach and less crowded atmosphere make it ideal for curious kids. The museum is free to enter, with only some special exhibitions and the butterfly house requiring tickets.

NB. Note that the Natural History Gallery at the Horniman Museum is closed until 2026

Alternatively, the Grant Museum of Zoology, though smaller, houses an incredible array of animal specimens, including many rare and extinct species. Its compact size is perfect for shorter attention spans, and the less formal setting encourages children to ask questions and engage more deeply with the exhibits.

Both museums provide the opportunity to learn about natural history and zoology without the overwhelming crowds of their more famous counterpart, allowing for a more intimate and often more memorable family experience.

Instead of Hyde Park… try Victoria Park

While Hyde Park is undoubtedly one of London’s most famous green spaces, its popularity can mean crowded pathways and busy attractions. For a more relaxed and equally enjoyable park experience, families should consider visiting Victoria Park in East London.

Known affectionately as the ‘People’s Park’, Victoria Park offers 86 hectares of open space, beautiful gardens, and a range of family-friendly amenities without the tourist crowds. Children will love the two excellent playgrounds. The park’s large lake is perfect for spotting ducks or trying out the pedal boats, available for hire in warmer months. The park also features a skatepark and wide open spaces ideal for picnics or impromptu games of football. On Sundays, the bustling farmers’ market adds an extra element of local charm.

With its mix of activities, quieter atmosphere, and local vibe, Victoria Park provides families with all the benefits of a large London park, but in a more laid-back and authentically local setting. It’s an excellent alternative for those looking to experience London’s green spaces away from the tourist hotspots.

Have you been to London and found a better alternative to one of the big sights? Let our readers know in the comments!