As one of central London’s most iconic riverside hubs, Southbank is full of renowned culture, superb attractions and scenic outdoor spaces. Even better, it’s a fantastic destination to enjoy family-friendly fun for locals and visitors alike, with plenty to see and do for little visitors of every age. Read on to discover the Southbank Place guide to an unforgettable Southbank family day out.
Why Southbank is Perfect for a Family Day Out
For those travelling to Southbank, the area is easy to access via a number of major transport hubs, including tube and train. Waterloo, Blackfriars and London Bridge stations are all nearby, or you can make your way there via taxi, boat or bike. Additionally, the majority of Southbank is pedestrianised, making it ideal for safe, leisurely explorations along the waterfront.
With a wide range of Southbank family activities to choose from – both indoor and outdoor – planning a fun day out couldn’t be easier, whatever the weather. There are also a multitude of child-friendly dining options available, from laidback restaurants and delicious street food to ice cream vendors and more. Although there’s a lot to do, you’ll also find many places to rest and relax at the riverside, from al fresco seating to leafy Southbank parks.
Why Southbank is Perfect for a Family Day Out
Top Family Attractions in Southbank
Plan an action-packed day with standout child-friendly attractions in London’s South Bank. Top experiences include the Sea Life London Aquarium, home to over 500 species of marine life from around the world. Explore 14 themed zones – including the famous Aquarium Tunnel – where children can see creatures like sharks, penguins and turtles up close. Next door is the fun-filled Paddington Bear Experience at the historic County Hall. Fans of the nation’s favourite bear can enjoy an interactive, sensory tour of Paddington’s famous Windsor Gardens home, as he and his family prepare to celebrate The Marmalade Day Festival. Afterwards, stop by Westminster Bridge for a family selfie with the iconic Big Ben, before taking a turn on the traditional merry-go-round located by the Golden Jubilee Bridges.
If you’re looking to broaden your family’s horizons with a touch of culture, head to the Southbank Centre, a vibrant destination offering performances, music and art for all ages, along with hands-on workshops and inspiring outdoor installations. At the National Theatre, backstage tours offer an illuminating 75-minute experience into the fascinating world behind a world-class theatrical production, covering everything from props to set painting. Further along the river, Tate Modern is curated with family-friendly zones to help children engage with art, such as Tate Draw desks featuring digital sketch pads that project original masterpieces onto the walls.
You can also take kids Far Far Away on Shrek’s Adventure!, an immersive fairytale experience where their favourite green ogre’s adventures come to life through madcap live shows and interactive activities. Meanwhile, family members of all ages will marvel at the spectacular London views revealed on the London Eye, one of the world’s largest Ferris wheels.
Top Family Attractions in Southbank
Southbank Parks & Play Areas for Kids
Enjoy playtime or a picnic (or simply take a break between attractions) at one of Southbank’s exceptional green spaces. Positioned next to the London Eye, Jubilee Gardens features an adventure playground equipped with fun obstacles and sensory experiences – ideal for keeping little ones entertained while the adults relax. The riverfront’s many benches offer a front-row seat to the antics of Southbank’s colourful street performers, while older children can perfect their skateboarding tricks at the ever-popular Undercroft Skate Space underneath Queen Elizabeth Hall.
For more tranquil downtime, consider the secluded Bernie Spain Gardens nestled between OXO Tower and Gabriel’s Wharf, a pretty space filled with shrubs and flowers. There is also Archbishop’s Park, located just off Southbank on Carlisle Lane. A neighbourhood favourite, this little-known spot comes with a playground, ping-pong tables and whimsical art pieces.
Southbank Parks & Play Areas for Kids
Southbank Family Day Out: Itinerary Ideas
| Activity
London Eye SEA Life London Aquarium Jubilee Gardens Shrek’s Adventure! Southbank Centre |
Suggested Age Group
All ages All ages 2-10 years 5-12 All ages (especially those aged 3-12) |
Duration
1-2 hours 1-3 hours 1-2 hours 2-3 hours 2-4 hours |
FAQs for Visiting Southbank with Kids
Yes, all the attractions mentioned here come with baby-changing facilities, including Southbank Centre and London Eye.
To avoid the crowds and take advantage of shorter queues, visit Southbank early in the morning (to coincide with opening times) or late afternoon.
Yes, most of Southbank is pedestrianised, making it easy to navigate for those with pushchairs and strollers. Many attractions are also pushchair-accessible, such as Tate Modern.
Yes, many. All the parks and play areas mentioned here are free to enter, in addition to Tate Modern. Southbank Centre also hosts regular free family-friendly events.
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