🦊 Smarty's Top Free Family Adventures in City of London
Looking for free things to do with kids in London? You’re in the right place! 🦊 Smarty the Fox has sniffed out two hidden gems in the City of London that are absolutely perfect for a smart family day out. From epic city views to jungle vibes right in the middle of London, these spots are top picks for smart parenting adventures. Let’s jump in!
Perched on the 43rd floor of the Walkie-Talkie building, the Sky Garden offers some of the best panoramic views in London — and best of all, it’s completely free! Perfect if you’re hunting for family activities in London that don’t cost a penny. Smarty The Fox gives this place a big paws-up for combining sightseeing and greenery all under one giant glass roof.
You’ll need to book free tickets online ahead of time — especially during school holidays. Smarty’s tip: book early to grab the best times!
Get ready for the “wow” factor! The whole family can spot iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge and The Shard, all while wandering through a lush indoor garden. Rain or shine, it’s perfect — no umbrellas needed!
– Go Early or Late: Beat the crowds by visiting first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon.
– No Picnics Inside: Outside snacks are a no-go, but the café inside will sort you out with drinks and bites.
– Play Landmark Bingo: Challenge your kids to spot as many London landmarks as they can. Smarty LOVES a good game!
If you’re after free family activities in London that feel a bit magical, Sky Garden is the place to be. It’s a winning combo of jaw-dropping views, plants, and family bonding time – all without spending a fortune!
You can read full review of the Sky Garden in City Of London by smarty parents here.
Tucked inside the Barbican Centre, this tropical paradise is bursting with over 2,000 plants, koi fish, and even turtles! It’s one of Smarty’s top picks for smart parenting activities — a real urban jungle that feels like a mini holiday.
Tickets are free but essential. Booking online is super simple (Smarty managed it with just a paw and a phone!📱).
– 🌴 Plant Paradise: Wander under towering palms and spot colourful orchids.
– 🐟 Wildlife Wonders: The koi pond and cheeky turtles are guaranteed crowd-pleasers.
– 🌵 Cactus Corner: Even if the cactus house is partly closed sometimes, the succulents are still a hit with curious little ones.
– Dress Smart: It’s warm and humid inside – layers are your best friend.
– Snap Loads of Photos: The mix of greenery and Brutalist architecture makes for some seriously cool family pics.
– Chill Afterwards: Grab a bite at the Barbican café or let the kids splash about the outside fountains.
Why not explore more? Walk along the Thames, visit the Museum of London, or just stroll around this amazing part of the city. It’s the smart way to pack loads into your family day out in London.
You can read full review of the Barbican Conservatory in the City Of London by smarty parents here.
Both Sky Garden and Barbican Conservatory are brilliant examples of smart parenting in action — they’re free, fun, and full of ways to bond, learn, and explore. No wonder Smarty The Fox is such a big fan! 🦊
Smarty’s golden rule? Morning visits are best for beating the crowds and giving little ones room to run about.
– Comfy shoes (there’s a fair bit of walking)
– A small backpack (nappies, wipes, water bottles – all the essentials)
– A sense of adventure (Smarty insists!)
Turn the trip into a learning quest! Ask questions like:
– How do plants grow without soil?
– Which London landmarks can you see from the Sky Garden?
– How many different types of leaves can you spot at the Conservatory?
Exploring free family attractions in London doesn’t have to be tricky — with a little planning (and a lot of Smarty cleverness), you can create brilliant family days out without breaking the bank.
Visited Sky Garden or Barbican Conservatory with your little ones? 🦊 👉 Share your own top tips and reviews on our website – you’ll be helping loads of other smart parents out there!
Whether you’re soaking in the sights from high above London or wandering through a secret city jungle, these two spots are top free family activities in London for a reason.
📸 Tag us on socials @SmartyParentingGuide with your adventures — and don’t forget to bring Smarty The Fox along for the ride!
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