By Lauren Harmes
It goes without saying that South Bank is a melting pot of culture, tourism, activities and great places to eat and drink. With that in mind, we have run through the best places to enjoy a family-focused day out in the popular district.
1) SEA LIFE London Aquarium
This aquatic wonderland is a fascinating experience for both old and young alike. From jellyfish and sting rays to poison dart frogs and even a Cuban crocodile, the selection of animals here will blow both yours and your children’s minds.
From the very start of your visit when sand tiger sharks glide underneath your feet as you venture over a glass walkway, to discovering a colony of Gentoo penguins, this is a day out you will never forget.
1) London Dungeon
No family trip to London is complete without a visit to this famous tourist spot.Situated next to the London Eye, you will give yourself some serious scares as live actors recreate gory historical events in front of your very eyes.
Drop Dead: Drop Ride is an exhilarating vertical free fall drop ride replicates a hanging (or ‘Long Drop’) transporting you back to 1783 – definitely not for the faint hearted!
1) London Duck Tours
In need of a reprieve after the chaos of London Dungeon? London Duck Tours is just the ticket.
Hop on board one of the distinctive yellow vehicles and enjoy a land and sea-based tour of the capital’s famous sights while learning all about the city and enjoying action-packed live commentary.
Please note: the sea element of the tour is temporarily suspended while Thames Water build the next phase of the Thames Tunnel super sewer.
1) Tate Modern
If your children enjoy something a little more cultured, the Tate Modern has that in absolute abundance. Tate Modern offers a huge selection of exhibitions showcasing sculptures, paintings and installations from some of the world’s most famous and interesting modern artists.
Looking for something more kid-friendly? There are digital sketch pads within the Drawing Bar where your little ones can make their own creative responses to their visit and see them immediately projected onto the wall.
1) London Eye
Nothing will make your little treasure’s eyes light up more than seeing London from high above.
A trip in one of the capsules is 30 minutes long and offers 360-degree views of our wonderful city, with sights such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace right in front of you.
If you want to make the experience extra-special, treat the family to an immersive 4D cinema experience – bringing the city to life through video and special effects such as bubbles and scents.
1) HMS Belfast
If your family are boat enthusiasts, then a trip onto HMS Belfast is a no-brainer – plus it’s free for under 5s! A World War Two cruiser that is home to a floating museum? What could be better? Explore the nine decks of memorabilia and authentic fit outs and imagine what it could be like to be working on this spectacular vessel.
Be sure to check out the events programme prior to your visit as there are special events on at the ship throughout the year.
1) Jubilee Park
Make the most of your visit to the London Eye by taking in the fun activities in the surrounding Jubilee Park.
Watch the spectacular street artists and performers, grab a bite to eat from the restaurants or food trucks or take a ride on the carousel. Children will love the playground full of monkey bars, climbing nets and much more.