Sometimes, a family just needs to stretch its legs and have that great overseas adventure. Europe’s capitals, like London, are family-friendly and inviting, and though the dollar is weak, our desire to check them out is very strong.
First, you’ll want a kid-friendly hotel—and by kid-friendly, we mean one with room to breathe. You’ll not find the small sizes of most European hotel rooms as charming with kids in tow as you did on your honeymoon, so try the Sloane Square Hotel in Chelsea, which offers five rooms spaciously designed specifically for families. Le Meridien Picadilly is also centrally located in London’s West End, and offers family rooms, plus that ever-important babysitting service.
Get the lay of the land by taking a “flight” on the London Eye. The giant observation wheel on the south bank of the river Thames glides 442 feet over London. You’ll spot landmarks like Parliament, Big Ben and St Paul’s Cathedral, and the kids will love the ride in the surreal, clear orbs. Tickets often offer combined admission to nearby museums, so check what’s available.
Don’t miss the Victoria & Albert Museum’s Museum of Childhood. The kids can enjoy exhibits created just for them, featuring dolls, toys, games and more. The museum also offers a variety of free, drop-in activities for kids throughout the day. So mom and dad can sneak away for a spot of tea.
When your globetrotting leaves you famished, stop by YO! Sushi locations scattered throughout the city center. There’s no better place than London to introduce your little ones to foods of the world, and YO! is pure fun. You’ll watch in delicious anticipation as master chefs create more than 100 different dishes and send them scooting around the restaurant on a conveyor belt in small, individual pods.
And, when you decide to make use of Le Meridien’s sitting services, ask the concierge to reserve a table at The Wolseley, just down the street. The building has a storied history as a car dealership in the 1920s and as a branch of Barclays Bank from the 1930s until 2003.
