London With the Kids: Top Educational Attractions

If you're planning to spend a few days in London with the kids, it is worth visiting some of the city's educational attractions. There are plenty of establishments that are entertaining and educational in equal measure, so you are bound to find something that suits the whole family.

While you are deciding what to see and do during your stay, you should also search for your accommodation. Book one of London's family-friendly 4 star hotels and you can get a great balance between luxury and having suitable facilities for the children.

So, just what are the top educational attractions in the capital? The good news is that there is a huge spectrum of choice. Museums are the most obvious, but do not forget tourist spots like the London Dungeon and other historical sites, such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament.

That said, many of the best places to get your children more excited about their school subjects are the museums, as these typically cater specifically to a younger audience, offering interactive exhibits and exciting displays. One of the top establishments to head to is the splendid Science Museum, which is free to enter.

Situated in South Kensington, the Science Museum is home to a massive array of galleries, each with its own focus. For example, if your children cannot get enough of space, take them to Exploring Space - a gallery packed with rockets, space probes and more. Here, they can learn all about the beginning of the space age and the various satellites and rockets that have been launched since.

Alternatively, there are galleries on mathematics, computing, energy, time and much more. Children can even try out interactive exhibits that let them explore themselves, such as by showing them what they might look like when they are older.

A similarly exciting place to head to is the Natural History Museum, where you and your children can learn all about the natural world - from the dinosaurs to the evolution of the human race. If your children are interested in the latter, take them to Our Place in Evolution, a gallery that looks at our origins and has a host of incredible exhibits, including a Neanderthal skull that dates back 400,000 years.

Dinosaurs and other large mammals can usually be counted on to capture children's imaginations, so visits to the dinosaur and mammal galleries are a must. Among the things you can see are a Triceratops skeleton and a life-size replica of a blue whale, the largest creature on earth.

Head to the Horniman Museum in Forest Hill, meanwhile, and you can discover a fantastic combination of galleries spanning everything from anthropology to musical instruments. Free to enter, the six collections include the Hands on Base Gallery, where youngsters can pick up and discover real artefacts, as well as trying on authentic historical clothing.

The museum is also home to an acclaimed aquarium, which has been designed with youngsters in mind. Low-level windows mean even young children can easily see the fish and other marine life living at the facility, which includes a live reef. As well as learning about creatures from across the world, kids can find out all about those that live in British waters.

In addition to visiting local museums, it is also worth going to one or two of London's splendid Royal Parks, which are the perfect places for lively youngsters to burn off a little energy!

Find 4 star London hotels with AboutRooms.com and have a fun-filled family break. To make sure your children learn a little as they enjoy themselves, visit some of the capital's famous museums.