Discover five engaging activities in England that families, couples, and solo travelers love. From iconic London landmarks to a vibrant zoo, these outings—mostly near London—offer fun for all ages, based on our recent family trip.
England is a top holiday spot, easily reachable by ferry or high-speed train in just a few hours. On our family visit, we stayed in London and explored both the city and surroundings, creating lasting memories. While there's endless to see, here are our top five picks. We visited in summer, but winter charms with festive markets too.
These handpicked outings, tested with our kids, promise unforgettable days around London.
A trip to England demands time in central London. Opt for a hop-on-hop-off double-decker bus tour to cover highlights efficiently, or wander on foot like we did. Iconic stops include Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace (catch the Changing of the Guard), Big Ben, and shopping on Oxford or Regent Street. Plan at least two days—there's always more to discover.
In central London, don't miss the world-famous M&M's World—a colorful paradise across four floors packed with treats and displays. It's commercial fun that delights kids and adults alike. Spot it near Piccadilly Circus by the crowds with giant M&M bags.
General Information: M&M's World London
M&M's World London
1 Swiss Ct
London
England
Website: M&M
Phone: +44 2070257171
Accessibility
Best reached on foot from Piccadilly Circus.
Opening Hours
10:00–midnight (Mon–Sat)
12:00–18:00 (Sun)
Admission
Free entry (purchases optional).
Venture beyond London to Colchester Zoo, a beautifully designed park with winding paths. Feed giraffes and elephants (a highlight for us), ride the train, and meet playful primates—one cheeky monkey even joined our family ride. Perfect for a nature-filled day.
General Information: Colchester Zoo
Colchester Zoo
Maldon Road
Stanway
Colchester
England
Website: Colchester Zoo
Phone: +44 1206331292
Accessibility
By car or public transport—we took the train to Colchester then a 15-minute bus.
Opening Hours
9:30am–6:00pm (late March–July 20; Sept 8–30)
9:30am–6:30pm (July 21–Sept 7)
9:30am–5:00pm (Oct 1–Nov 2)
9:30am–4:30pm (Nov 3–Feb 15)
Check website for details.
Admission
Varies by season; see website.
Inspired by New York's museum (visited in 2001), London's version wowed us with vast exhibits across floors—dinosaurs, gems, and taxidermy animals. Educational yet fun; even our teens loved it. Allow a full day.
Natural History Museum
Cromwell Road
Kensington
London
England
Website: Natural History Museum
Phone: +44 2079425000
Accessibility
Bus, train, or walking.
Opening Hours
10:00am–5:50pm (closed Dec 24–26)
Admission
Free (fees for special exhibits).
Note: Ripley's Believe It or Not! has closed; we're recommending the London Eye instead, a favorite we photographed during our trip.
Iconic for panoramic Thames views, the London Eye tops many itineraries. We skipped due to cost (£24.30+ per person; ~£100 for four), but the riverside promenade offers dining, Sealife, and London Dungeon nearby.
General Information: London Eye
London Eye
Lambeth
London
England
Website: London Eye
Phone: +44 870990881
Accessibility
Hop-on-hop-off bus, other buses, train, or walk.
Opening Hours
Typically 10:00am start; closing varies seasonally.
Admission
From £24.30
