When I was working as a nanny for a visiting American family one summer, the parents had one wish: “Show the kids the magic of London.” No pressure, right? But honestly, it turned out to be one of the loveliest jobs I’ve had, notwithstanding the current one 😉

We explored the city at a child’s pace, not rushing between landmarks, but rather discovering hidden playgrounds, animals, and stories around every corner. And that’s the advantage of hiring a professional babysitter or a nanny if you’re traveling to London with young children. They can do much more than just supervise. With the right carer, your little ones can enjoy safe, age-appropriate adventures, while you get some well-earned grown-up time.

Keep in mind, these are a departure from the commercially popular spots like Hamley’s, Kidzania (closed as of the date of this post) or Legoland.

1. Explore the Magic of London’s Parks

A seasoned nanny or babysitter will know that London’s green spaces are a dream for young children. Hyde Park’s Princess Diana Memorial Playground, complete with pirate ship and sensory areas, is a firm favourite. Regent’s Park has wide open spaces perfect for a picnic or a kickabout.

Battersea Park, meanwhile, offers a mini-zoo, boating lake and brilliant playgrounds. It’s ideal for a full morning of fun, with plenty of opportunities for little ones to burn off energy.

2. Visit Child-Friendly Museums and Attractions

You might not fancy taking your toddler to the British Museum, but luckily there are plenty of attractions tailored to younger visitors. The London Transport Museum is perfect for preschoolers – they can climb aboard buses and trains while learning through play.

For animal lovers, ZSL London Zoo in Regent’s Park is always a hit, and a trained babysitter or nanny can help guide children through the exhibits with age-appropriate activities and snacks on hand.

My personal favourite though, is the Natural History Museum which housed a gigantic dinosaur skeleton – at least it used to. Now it’s an equally large skeleton of a blue whale.

3. Craft, Story Time and Cosy Indoor Days

Sometimes, little ones need a quiet day in, especially after a long journey. An experienced nanny or babysitter can turn your hotel room or Airbnb into a cosy play zone. They might bring storybooks, simple craft supplies, or sensory toys, depending on your child’s age and interests.

If you’re lucky enough to be staying for a couple of weeks, they might even build a little daily rhythm around story time, creative play and outings, giving children a sense of comfort in a new environment.

4. Ride the Bus or Boat for a Toddler-Friendly Tour

London’s public transport is an adventure in itself! A double-decker red bus is endlessly exciting to a toddler, especially with a babysitter who can sit up top and point out the landmarks. For a gentler ride, the Thames Clipper boat service gives children a river view without the crowds of a tourist cruise.

Your nanny or babysitter can turn these everyday experiences into magical moments — complete with snacks, songs, and a nap on the way home.

5. Visit Local Play Cafés or Children’s Centres

For longer stays, many nannies and babysitters will know about London’s community spaces like soft play centres, play cafés, or even free stay-and-play sessions at local children’s centres. It’s a lovely way for visiting children to socialise and get a feel for life in London.

The right childcare can transform your trip, not just by giving you the parent time to relax, but by creating a memorable experience for your children too. Whether you’re visiting London for a few days or a few weeks, professional nannies and babysitters in London can offer more than supervision. They offer care, creativity, and connection – helping your little ones enjoy every moment of their London adventure.

Tags: Activities, adventures, Family travel, sightseeing, visting london