What to do with kids in London: Tower Hill
Exploring Tower Hill with kids offers a captivating journey through London’s rich history and vibrant present. This historic area, nestled in the heart of the city, boasts an array of family-friendly attractions that blend education with excitement. From ancient fortifications to modern marvels, Tower Hill provides a diverse range of activities suitable for children of all ages. Whether you’re a local family looking for a weekend adventure or tourists seeking to delve into London’s past, the question of what to do in Tower Hill with kids is met with an abundance of options. This post will take you through some of the area’s top attractions, helping you plan an unforgettable day out that will engage and inspire your young explorers while creating lasting family memories.
About the area
Tower Hill is a historic area in central London, located to the east of the City of London and north of the River Thames. It is famously known for the iconic Tower of London, a former royal palace and prison now housing the Crown Jewels. Bordering neighbourhoods include the vibrant St. Katharine Docks, the business hub of the City, and the trendy district of Shoreditch.
Families visiting Tower Hill can explore its rich history, enjoy interactive exhibits at the Tower of London, and take in panoramic views from Tower Bridge. The combination of educational opportunities and engaging attractions makes Tower Hill an ideal spot for a fun and enriching family outing. Here’s what there is to do in Tower Hill for kids.
What to do in Tower Hill with children?
Let’s dive into some of the best attractions and experiences that make Tower Hill a fantastic destination for families visiting London.
Explore the Tower of London
No visit to Tower Hill with kids is complete without exploring the iconic Tower of London. This historic castle on the River Thames has been standing since the 11th century. A visit to the Tower of London allows families to step back in time. Kids will enjoy trying to envision the Tower in its different roles – a royal palace, fortress, prison, arsenal, and even a menagerie that housed exotic animals. A highlight is seeing the amazing Crown Jewels and learning about their storied past from the Yeomen Warders (Beefeaters), the traditional ceremonial guardians. Children will delight in hearing the tales of intrigue and viewing artifacts like execution weapons from the Tower’s dark history. Other unmissable experiences include meeting the legendary ravens, exploring the towers and walking the walls. The Tower’s tours and activity trails help make the palace visit engaging and educational for youngsters.
Witness the Ceremony of the Keys
For a unique evening experience at the Tower of London, try to catch the ancient Ceremony of the Keys with older kids (admission starts at 9.30pm and the Ceremony requires visitors to be silent and still). This traditional locking-up ritual has taken place every night at the Tower for over 700 years. Just before the Tower’s closing time, one of the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters) emerges dressed in a long red cloak and carrying a lantern to lead a small procession of armed guards. As they make their way to the Byward Tower, the Yeoman Warder is challenged by a sentry to confirm his identity and purpose. After securing the keys, the ceremonial walk continues until all doors are locked for the night. Children will be enthralled witnessing this centuries-old ceremony steeped in pomp and tradition. The entire ritual is accompanied by the sounding of bells and the slamming of massive wooden doors. Seeing the Ceremony of the Keys allows families to experience a real moment frozen in time within the ancient fortifications of the Tower of London.
The Gunpowder Plot
The Gunpowder Plot immersive experience, located in the vaults at the Tower of London, offers an exciting and educational adventure for families with older children and teenagers. This interactive journey through recreated sets and virtual reality transports visitors back to 1605, where they become part of the infamous conspiracy to blow up the Houses of Parliament. Participants will encounter historical figures, make crucial decisions, and even ‘time travel’ as they unravel the plot. While the content is engaging and educational it does have intense themes and some mildly scary moments. It is most suitable for children aged 10 and above. Younger history enthusiasts might find certain parts unsettling. The combination of storytelling, technology, and hands-on participation offers a unique way for families to explore a pivotal moment in British history.
Visit St Dunstan in the East
A short walk from Tower Hill, St Dunstan in the East offers a magical retreat for families. This hidden gem was once a church designed by Sir Christopher Wren. It was largely destroyed in World War II, is now a public garden where ruins and nature intertwine. Kids can explore hollow windows and archways, spot various plants climbing old walls, and let their imaginations run wild in this unique setting. Open daily from 8am to 7pm (or dusk), the garden provides a tranquil break from bustling tourist sites. It would be a great place to eat a quiet picnic lunch. While there are no facilities on-site and the ground can be uneven for strollers, St Dunstan in the East offers families a chance to experience a different side of London, where history and urban nature blend in unexpected ways.
Go inside Tower Bridge
Going inside Tower Bridge offers an exciting and educational adventure for families exploring the Tower Hill area. Step inside one of London’s most iconic landmarks and discover its hidden marvels. The highlight for many kids is the glass floor walkway, suspended 42 meters above the Thames, where they can watch boats and cars pass beneath their feet – a truly exhilarating experience! Brave little ones might even catch a glimpse of the bridge lifting to let tall ships pass through. The Victorian Engine Rooms, with their massive steam engines and furnaces, will fascinate young minds with the mechanics of how the bridge once operated. With stunning views of London from the high-level walkways and plenty of photo opportunities, the Tower Bridge Experience creates lasting memories for visitors of all ages. For more information, see our post on visiting Tower Bridge.
For a cheaper alternative, time your visit to coincide with watching the Bridge lift from the banks of the Thames. Find out everything you need to know about watching Tower Bridge lift here.
See the London Wall
In the Tower Hill area, visitors can explore fascinating remnants of the ancient London Wall, which once encircled the Roman city of Londinium. A well-preserved section of this historic fortification is visible just outside Tower Hill Underground station, offering a tangible link to the city’s Roman past. For more glimpses at the Wall, you can find another section through the walkway for the Leonardo Royal Hotel London City on Cooper’s Row and another at the City Wall at Vine Street (within a building, booking required but tickets are free). These glimpses into London’s ancient defenses provide an excellent opportunity to engage children with the city’s rich history, sparking their imagination about life in Roman Britain.
If you want to see more of Roman London, why not try our Roman London self-guided walk?
Ride a RIB
For an exhilarating adventure that’s sure to thrill both kids and adults, consider taking a high-speed RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) ride on the Thames from Tower Hill. These adrenaline-pumping boat trips combine sightseeing with excitement as you zip along the river at speeds of up to 35 knots. Children will love the wind in their hair and the splash of water as the skilled skipper navigates the waves. Most tours offer a mix of high-speed sections and slower cruising, allowing you to take in iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye from a unique perspective. It’s an unforgettable way to see London and create lasting memories for the whole family. Try the Thames RIB Experience.
If adventure is your sort of thing, check out our post with ideas on things to do in London with young thrill-seekers.
Walk around St Katherine’s Docks
Just a stone’s throw from Tower Bridge, St. Katherine Docks offers a delightful maritime experience for families. This hidden marina is perfect for a leisurely stroll with children. In the marina they can marvel at an array of luxurious yachts and historic vessels bobbing in the water. Kids will be fascinated by the lock system that controls water levels, especially if you catch it in action. The docks are home to several quirky houseboats, sparking imaginative conversations about life on the water. Look out for the Dickens Inn, a reconstructed 18th-century warehouse that now serves as a picturesque pub. Its flower-adorned balconies are a hit with young photographers. You might also spot the royal barge Gloriana. Queen Elizabeth used the Gloriana for her Diamond Jubilee in 2012. Throughout the year, the docks host various events, including food markets and floating art exhibitions, adding extra excitement to your visit. With its traffic-free walkways, charming bridges, and plenty of waterside cafes for snack breaks, St. Katherine Docks provides a refreshing, nautical-themed adventure right in the heart of London.
Garden at 120
Just a short walk from Tower Hill, families can discover a hidden gem: The Garden at 120. This free-to-visit rooftop garden, perched atop the Fen Court building at 120 Fenchurch Street, offers a delightful escape from the bustling city below. The panoramic views of London’s skyline, including close-up vistas of iconic buildings like the Walkie Talkie and the Gherkin, will fascinate children. The garden is a serene environment for kids to explore. It’s an ideal spot for a family picnic or a brief respite during your Tower Hill adventures.
For more information, see our post with everything you need to know about visiting the Garden at 120 with kids.
Sky Garden
A visit to the nearby Sky Garden offers families an unforgettable experience high above London’s streets. Located at 20 Fenchurch Street, just a short walk from Tower Hill, this unique public space is set within a striking skyscraper nicknamed the Walkie Talkie due to its distinctive shape. The Sky Garden boasts London’s highest public garden, with lush tropical plants, tree ferns, and flowering plants spread across three storeys. Kids will be amazed by the 360-degree views of the city, including landmarks like the Shard, Tower Bridge, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. While entry is free, it is strongly advised to book time slots in advance (walk-ins are allowed subject to availability). For a different view, consider timing your visit to coincide with sunset.
Take a boat along the river
Sightseeing tour
Embarking on a sightseeing cruise is an excellent way for families to experience London’s history and architecture from the water. These leisurely boat trips offer a unique vantage point of the city’s iconic skyline. Live commentary provides engaging insights suitable for all ages. As you glide along the Thames, children can spot famous landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. Many cruises offer indoor and outdoor seating, allowing kids to feel the excitement of being on deck or stay cozy inside during cooler weather. The relaxed pace of these cruises also gives everyone a chance to rest their feet. Cruises vary in duration, from short 30-minute trips to longer excursions, making it easy to fit into your itinerary. There are a variety of operators, including Thames River Sightseeing.
For fans of Horrible Histories, the Terrible Thames tour offers families a uniquely entertaining way to explore London’s river history. This 45-minute boat ride, created by the team behind the popular Horrible Histories series, brings the Thames’ gruesome and fascinating past to life with humor and theatrics. As you cruise from Tower Bridge to Westminster, actors regale passengers with tales of executions, plagues, and dastardly deeds that occurred along the river’s banks. The mix of comedy, facts, and interactive elements will captivate kids. Children will be learning about London’s history without realising they’re being educated. The tour covers major landmarks while focusing on the delightfully disgusting details that children love. It’s an ideal blend of sightseeing and storytelling, suitable for children aged 6 and up. Keep in mind that the tour runs seasonally, typically during the school summer holidays.
Uber Boat
For a cheaper alternative, taking an Uber Boat by Thames Clippers from Tower Hill pier is an exciting way for families to explore London from a different perspective. These sleek, high-speed catamarans offer a comfortable and scenic journey along the River Thames, providing an excellent alternative to traditional sightseeing cruises (albeit without the commentary). Kids will enjoy the thrill of watching the cityscape unfold as you cruise past iconic landmarks. The boats have outdoor rear decks, perfect for feeling the breeze and taking photos. Inside, there’s ample seating and large windows for all-weather viewing. Services run frequently throughout the day, allowing flexible travel to popular destinations like Greenwich, the London Eye, or Westminster.
Jack the Ripper Museum
The Jack the Ripper Museum, located near Tower Hill, offers a glimpse into one of London’s most infamous unsolved crime sprees. The exhibits recreate crime scenes and provide detailed information about the victims and the investigation. Due to the graphic nature of the exhibits and the dark subject matter, the museum is generally not recommended for young children or sensitive individuals.
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:
Have you discovered something great in Tower Hill that other readers should know about? Let us know in the comments!