Make the most of London by booking a staycation in the city and indulge in everything it has to offer, from an incredible restaurant scene to historic landmarks, the abundance of green space (far more than most cities) to some of the best shops in the world.
If you’re planning a trip to the capital with your brood, check out our edit of the best family-friendly hotels in London, that both you and the children will love equally.
The Athenaeum
Little travellers will feel like proper VIPs at Mayfair’s Athenaeum Hotel & Residences. The hotel’s tailor-made kids concierge questionnaire makes sure that your little one’s favourite things are in the bedroom upon arrival, even down to the milk and cookies before bed.
The Residences offers you access to all hotel facilities, with the privacy of your own front door. Little ones can look forward to California king-sized beds and pop-up bunk beds, as well as games and teddy bears.
The Athenaeum, 116 Piccadilly, Mayfair, London W1J 7BJ
www.athenaeumhotel.com
11 Cadogan Gardens
Chelsea’s 11 Cadogan Gardens offers a selection of interconnecting rooms and suites to suit families, complete with complimentary extra beds and breakfast for children aged 12 and under. Or, opt for something more exclusive and book in for The Apartments by 11 Cadogan Gardens for extra space and comfort. Located a stone’s throw away from the hotel across the leafy and private garden square, it’s perfect for families of all sizes.
Ideally located in the heart of SW, the hotel sits near some of the best family-friendly attractions the city has to offer, from Harrods to Chelsea Physic Garden, Hyde Park to the V&A.
11 Cadogan Gardens, Chelsea, London SW3 2RJ
www.11cadogangardens.com
The Landmark London
Little ones (and grownups) will be blown away when entering the Grande Dame of the London hotel scene thanks to The Landmark London’s stunning garden. As soon as you step inside, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped abroad with the hotel’s tranquil oasis entrance, which is towered over by huge palm trees.
The hotel’s new Investigator Package invites guests to play detective with in-room children’s books, an Investigator Teddy bear, and even Sherlock Holmes accessories. For the parents, there will be a specially crafted Sherlock Holmes-inspired cocktail at the hotel’s Great Central Pub.
The Landmark London, 222 Marylebone Road, London NW1 6JQ
www.landmarklondon.co.uk
Brown’s Hotel
Families are at the core of what Brown’s Hotel does, including their Jungle Book-themed afternoon tea that’s almost too adorable to eat. You can look forward to a tailored itinerary for children of Brown’s, curated so you can explore famous corners of the city whilst ensuring the little ones are kept entertained along the way.
Brown’s Hotel, Albemarle St, Mayfair, London W1S 4BP
www.roccofortehotels.com
Pan Pacific London
This summer, Pan Pacific London is inviting children to dip their toes into the world of wellbeing. The hotel has partnered with luxury children’s brand, Bonpoint, to create a range of unisex skincare treatments designed for children aged 6-16 years old, providing parents with the opportunity to spend quality time with their little ones all while enjoying a pamper.
Families can also make use of the hotel’s wellness pool during its daily dedicated children’s hours and dine as a family at the hotel’s restaurants. The ‘Little Kopi Tiam’ afternoon tea at The Orchid Lounge is a must-visit.
80 Houndsditch, EC3A 7AB
www.panpacific.com
Jumeirah Carlton Tower
Beloved children’s author Roald Dahl continues to be a favourite amongst every generation, and Jumeirah Carlton Tower has partnered with The Roald Dahl Story Company in an exclusive campaign.
Families have the opportunity to transform their children’s room into a Roald Dahl-themed world, complete with toys, books and games.
Families have the opportunity to transform their children’s room into a Roald Dahl-themed world, complete with toys, books and games
1 Cadogan Pl, London SW1X 9PY
jumeirah.com
Claridge’s
Service doesn’t come much better than at London’s iconic Claridge’s, no matter what your age. The team have thought of everything, from child-friendly tote goody bags on arrival to personalised bathrobes at bedtime. Computer games in the room (if mum and dad approve) to arts and crafts activities.
There’s even a children’s special afternoon tea in the hotel’s stunning Foyer and childcare or babysitters to give you some much-needed time – preferably in the bar or the Claridge’s Spa.
Outside of the hotel, there’s a specialised Children’s Concierge at Claridge’s who will happily arrange tickets for attractions, museums and shows, and make up luxury picnics to take to nearby Green Park or Hyde Park.
Claridge’s, 41 – 43 Brook Street, London W1K 4HJ
www.claridges.co.uk
Kimpton Fitzroy London
Go grand and book in for a night or two at Bloomsbury’s Kimpton Fitzroy London. The hotel has a Family Moments package designed for the summer holidays. Book a double-double (interconnecting) room and families will receive a £75 voucher to spend across the hotel’s restaurants and bars.
Family-friendly amenities will be placed in the rooms and parents can also request an exclusive teepee complete with cushions, twinkly lights and plush toys to make the experience all the more magical.
1-8 Russell Square, Bloomsbury, WC1B 5BE
www.kimptonfitzroylondon.com
Great Fosters
Venture out of the city and head to Egham near Windsor for the ultimate family countryside escape. The regal estate offers so much for the little ones, from swims in their heated outdoor pool to tennis coaching for older kiddies.
All children receive a welcome rucksack packed with treats, as well as delicious (but healthy) dining options, little robes for their own ‘spa’ experiences and more.
The younger kiddies can have a magical teepee laid out to sleep under an extra bed, or even their own interconnecting room.
Stroude Road, Egham, Surrey, TW20 9UR
www.alexanderhotels.co.uk
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The Apartments by The Sloane Club
For those looking for a spacious, home-away-from-home getaway, The Apartments by The Sloane Club tick all of the boxes.
Housed in a grand Victorian terracotta mansion block on Sloane Gardens, the apartments are light, airy and boast plenty of space for families. The one- and two-bedroom apartments come with their own separate dining rooms and private dining menus tailor-made by executive chef Bernhard Mayer and head chef Maryono Maryono can be organised. Furry friends are very much welcome here too meaning the whole family can enjoy a stay here.
For those looking for a spacious, home-away-from-home getaway, The Apartments by The Sloane Club tick all of the boxes
15 Sloane Gardens, Chelsea, SW1W 8EB
www.sloaneclubapartments.com
South Place Hotel
The perfect location for a family staycation, enjoy free museums and fun activities the kids will love before crashing in your very own pad at South Place Hotel.
Enter through private doors and dive straight into a super king size bed in one of their spacious rooms. There’s plenty to keep the kids entertained, with a handy twin room located next door for playing in.
Both rooms are fully stocked with complimentary daily soft drinks and snacks, so no one goes hungry.
3 South Place, EC2M 2AF
www.southplacehotel.com
Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill
Situated in the heart of London’s West End, the Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill is home to views over the charming gardens of Portman Square and handily located just a stone’s throw away from Hyde Park, Madame Tussauds and Buckingham Palace.
There are plenty of interconnecting family rooms for those with little ones in tow, as well as child-friendly amenities like mini bathrobes, slippers, in-room activity packs and a ‘Jock’ toy on arrival – Jock was Winston Churchill’s cat! Plus, kids will be kept entertained with the free activity book.
You’ll have exclusive access to the Portman Square Garden and tennis courts opposite the hotel allowing families to enjoy outdoor activities and stay active. Parents can relax in the garden while younger kids play in the playground within the gardens.
30 Portman Square, Marylebone, W1H 7BH
www.hyatt.com
One Aldwych
Set on the doorstep of Covent Garden and its magical theatreland, One Aldwych is the ideal hotel for memory-making moments this summer.
All of their bedrooms and suites have their own defining characteristics, with the potential to add configurations to make family life easier. Extra beds, cots and bed rails are all available on request and you can expect plenty of personal touches too, from mini bathrobes and slippers to games and treats for your little ones to enjoy.
Their Suite Family Life offer includes an overnight stay for two adults and two children in a one- or two-bedroom suite, £150 credit to spend on food and drink at the hotel during the stay, a curated and fully complimentary in-room mini-bar, English breakfast for four and complimentary valet parking for one car.
1 Aldwych, WC2B 4BZ
www.onealdwych.com
The Montague on the Gardens
The Montague on the Gardens is a charming Georgian townhouse, close to Covent Garden and London’s West End and the British Museum. From adorable kid-friendly afternoon teas to excursions to local tourist attractions, the team are happy to help make your London trip extra special.
And the best part? Children under 12 can stay and dine for free when sharing a room with their parents!
15 Montague Street, WC1B 5BJ
www.montaguehotel.com
Andaz London Liverpool Street
From Tower Bridge to St Paul’s Cathedral, Liverpool Street is one of the most connected tube and rail stations. If you’re pulling into the platform, make matters easier and book in for the night at Andaz London.
The hotel’s family rooms have been designed to give families more space and comfort during their city getaway. Every family room features a king room connected to another king or twin room. Children’s bathrobes and slippers are provided to let your little ones live out their own adult fantasies. Other amenities include colouring kits, Andaz teddy bears and a chalkboard easel.
Hunger pangs kicking in? The hotel offers a children’s menu with delicious and nutritious options. Book your weekend stay using the code HYVALUE and receive £50 credit to use at one of the hotel’s restaurants.
40 Liverpool Street, EC2M 7QN
www.hyatt.com
The London EDITION
Located moments away from attractions like the British Museum and world-famous toy haven, Hamleys, experience the ultimate family-friendly getaway at The London EDITION.
Their Family Suite is designed with comfort in mind, boasting an open-plan sitting area and two separate king bedrooms, ensuring all the family is comfy. Keep the kids entertained courtesy of the 55” flat screen, complete with high-definition channels and movies on-demand helping to make evenings all the more easier after a long day running around the city.
10 Berners Street, W1T 3NP
www.editionhotels.com
The Westin London City
From a dip in their mesmerising indoor pool to dinner overlooking the Thames, The Westin London City provides the perfect spot for family-friendly summer staycations. The five-star hotel boasts a family room, complete with a healthy breakfast to set you up for a busy day seeing the sights in the city.
This summer their Sensory Garden pop-up is a must-visit with kids. A love letter to the English countryside, the space mimics the beauty found in the countryside complete with wildflowers and greenery. There are family-friendly activities running throughout the summer for all to enjoy.
60 Upper Thames Street, EC2M 1NH
www.westinlondoncity.com
100 Queen’s Gate
Right in the heart of London’s Museum Quarter, this arty hotel will feel like a Victorian home away from home. It’s the perfect spot to base your summer family staycation within walking distance from some of London’s biggest tourist spots.
Right now they have a ‘Little Explorers’ package, boasting an extensive offering for all the family to take advantage of. Amenities include a two-bedroom interconnecting family room, early chicken, breakfast for up to four, complimentary meals for children under 5 when accompanied by a paying adult, £50 credit per stay to be used on food and drink at the hotel, 2 vouchers per child per stay to enjoy sweet treats, a special backpack filled with food and more.
100 Queen’s Gate, Kensington, SW7 5AG
www.100queensgate.com
The Rubens at the Palace
Taking pride in delivering impeccable service and exceeding expectations, The Rubens overlooks the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace.
The hotel boasts family-friendly suites, with additional entertainment options to suit all younger guests. From the Little Prince and Princess afternoon tea to decorating cupcakes under the skilful supervision of the pastry chef, every experience is magical. No request is too large and no detail is too small.
39 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 0PS
www.rubenshotel.com
The Trafalgar St. James
Chic London luxury hotel overlooking Trafalgar Square. An icon of central London, The Trafalgar St. James sits on the corner of its namesake, with unrivalled views over the famous square.
The St. James Family Room boasts space for up to two adults and two children, featuring an en-suite bathroom, complimentary wifi, soft drinks from the mini bar and more.
An icon of central London, The Trafalgar St. James sits on the corner of its namesake, with unrivalled views over the famous square
2 Spring Gardens, SW1A 2TS
www.trafalgarstjames.com
The Lanesborough
Designed for children up to 16, The Lanesborough offers a Little VIP Club, allowing kids and teens to indulge in special perks and treatments during their stays. Upon arrival, they’ll receive their very own ‘business wallet’, personalised with their name. When presented at any of The Lanesborough’s outlets, they’ll receive a free soft drink or ice cream.
Other special activities include mocktail lessons, horse riding in Hyde Park, ‘Little Butler Bootcamp’, treasure hunts and dedicated splash hours in the pool at the spa.
The hotel’s dedicated Concierge team is on hand to help create the perfect itineraries and days out in London for the entire family, including trips to Harry Potter World, the London Zoo, the Natural History Museum and Thames riverboat cruises.
Hyde Park Corner, SW1X 7TA
www.oetkercollection.com
Barnett Hill
Escape the city and embark on a countryside venture to Barnett Hill. Set in the Surrey Hills, the hotel is perched atop a shill with beautiful views overlooking the estate and surrounding area.
Expect spacious family rooms, delicious dining options for little ones and plenty of activities for the whole family to get involved in.
Set in the Surrey Hills, the hotel is perched atop a shill with beautiful views overlooking the estate and surrounding area
Blackheath Lane, Guildford, GU5 0RF
www.alexanderhotels.co.uk
The Milestone Hotel and Residences
The Milestone Hotel roll out the red carpet for families, from private wines and spacious residences perfect for the whole clan to family-friendly menus and a dedicated concierge team.
Their 15 interconnecting rooms and suites are perfect for families – encompassing Superior Queen, Deluxe King and Master Suites to suit your needs and preferences, with options for two and three rooms to be connected. Interconnecting rooms can accommodate up to 10 guests. Thoughtful touches such as children’s books and games, ‘The Milestone children’s passport’ and more will make you feel as if you are right at home, along with a secured outer doorway for additional privacy.
1-3 Kensington Court, W8 5DL
www.milestonehotel.com
The Chesterfield Mayfair
With so many attractions nearby, it’s hardly surprising that The Chesterfield Mayfair is always a hit with the kids – especially thanks to its afternoon tea.
Exclusive treats for the younger guests are always on hand, from mini bathrobes and slippers to activity colouring books and rubber ducks for bath time.
35 Charles Street, W1J 5EB
www.chesterfieldmayfair.com