20 Top Things to Do in London With Teenagers
From Big Ben to Buckingham Palace, climbing the O2 to cruising the Thames, we’ve got the top things to do in London with teenagers, the best shows and restaurant recommendations.
London is such a great destination for a family city break. I’ve visited with my daughter three times over the past two years, and each trip has been completely different. From seeing world-class shows and visiting iconic attractions to simply wandering through its famous streets, there are so many fun things to do in London with teenagers. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth visit, there’s always something new to experience in the city.
Despite being one of the world’s largest cities, London’s Underground network makes it incredibly easy and inexpensive to get around, allowing you to see many of the top attractions even on a short break. However, London is renowned for its world-class theatre scene, so I highly recommend booking a show while you are there.
Whether it is a concert at Wembley Stadium, an immersive experience like ABBA Voyage or MAMMA MIA! The Party, or a popular West End show, it will make your trip to London with your teenager even more memorable.
I have teamed up with Irish company Keith Prowse (@KeithProwseIreland on Instagram) who, together with Institute for Culture Travel and Choir Contact Ireland, specialise in theatre, sport and short breaks. From London’s West End and New York’s Broadway to Premier League football, Wimbledon and much more, they can tailor experiences to suit a wide range of interests and budgets.
I booked my last two London hotels, as well as tickets to Mamma Mia! The Party, with Keith Prowse and found their package options offered excellent value. Their advice on which airport to fly into and the best hotel locations for getting around London was invaluable and made planning the trips much easier. If you are considering a London theatre break or want to combine show tickets with accommodation, I highly recommend checking the range of packages they offer.
Whether you are looking for free things to do in London, must-see attractions or memorable nights out, below are some of my favourite experiences in London, as well as show recommendations that are ideal for teenagers.
Top Things to do in London with Teenagers – Top London Attractions
1. Harry Potter Studio Tour
I absolutely loved the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando, and never expected to get the same wow factor during the Harry Potter Studio Tour, but I did. There were countless goosebump moments and our jaws dropped many times, in fact I believe for avid Harry Potter fans, the Harry Potter Studio Tour is even more fascinating than the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
The Warner Bros Studio Tour is a unique experience that showcases original sets, props and costumes from the 8 Harry Potter series of movies, as well as featuring animatronic creatures, visual and special effect areas, and interactive activities such as Green Screen experiences.
You will walk through the Great Hall and Diagon Alley in the footsteps of Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson, step onto the Hogwarts Express, see Harry’s bed in the Gryffindor dorm room, as well as finding out how those acceptance letters flew out of the letterbox in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
Tickets for the Making of Harry Potter Studio Tour go on sale almost a year in advance – Christmas holiday dates are on sale already! It is best to book as early as possible, at least a few months in advance, especially if you are planning on visiting at weekends or during school holidays.
Read: Top Tips for the Harry Potter Studio Tour London
2. Cruise The Thames
There are many ways to cruise the Thames, and it is one of the best ways to see London’s iconic landmarks in a short space of time. We opted for the 40-minute sightseeing cruise from Tower Bridge, which was ideal as we were short on time. However, most river cruises last around an hour and take in many of London’s most famous attractions, including the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and Tower Bridge.
If you are planning to buy a hop-on hop-off bus ticket, it is worth knowing that a Thames river cruise is often included, offering excellent value and another great way to experience the city.
Families seeking a more adrenaline pumping tour need look no further than a high-speed boat trip on the Thames. Judging from the almost full house of 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor, this alternative exciting way to see the city is definitely one to consider! Your skipper and guide will take you at high speed down the River Thames over 45 minutes. This is such a cool thing to do in London with teenagers.
3. London Dungeon
Over 90 minutes, the London Dungeons will take you through 1000 years of some of London’s most gripping stories. This is certainly not for the faint hearted, and the thrilling experience is aimed at age 12+ due to its scary nature!
You will join a cast of 20 actors on a journey to The Torture Chamber, Jack the Rippers Whitechapel, and many other scarily true tales from some of London’s darkest days. There is also an optional underground ride Drop Dead: Drop Ride.
The London Dungeon tickets can be purchased alone or part of a combination ticket with Madame Tussauds and the London Eye. This is one of the most popular things to do in London with teens.
4. The London Eye
No trip to London with teenagers is complete without a ride on the iconic London Eye – it is one of London’s top attractions.
Europe’s tallest observation wheel has been welcoming tourists since 2000. During the 30-minute ride, enjoy 360-degree views of London where you will see the most famous landmarks including Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, St. Pauls Cathedral, and the Tower of London. On a clear day, the views stretch as far as 40km away to Windsor Castle!
Tickets to the London Eye can be purchased on their own, or as part of various combination ticket options to include Madame Tussauds, London Dungeon, SEA LIFE London and Shrek’s Adventure.
5. Climb the O2
If you are looking for a fun thing to do in London with teens, climbing the O2 is hard to beat! After being fitted with a harness, you will make your way to the summit, 52 metres above the arena, where you will be rewarded with panoramic views across London’s skyline and many of its iconic landmarks. My top tip is to book a sunset climb for the best views.
We visited the O2 when we went to Mamma Mia! The Party, and it is a fantastic destination in its own right. With a huge choice of shops, bars and restaurants, I recommend allowing a few hours to explore before or after your climb. The experience is suitable for anyone aged 8 and over, with a minimum height requirement of 1.2 metres.
6. Book a Bike Tour
The fastest and most fun way to see London’s sights is by bicycle and there are many group and private tours on regular or e bikes. This Electric bike tour should prove popular with older teenagers as it includes visits to Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Soho, Covent Garden as well as traditional London pubs for drinks and snacks. Minimum age 14.
If you are travelling with younger children too, this private family bike tour receives superb reviews. As well as visiting the best London attractions in a family-friendly way, you will also get a chance to spray paint graffiti in the famous Banksy Tunnel under Waterloo Station.
7. See a Premier League Match
Take your teenager to see a Premier League match! Choose from Chelsea, Arensal, Tottenham Hotspur and more. Keith Prowse can not only secure a wide selection of match tickets, but can also arrange hotels nearby too.
8. Book a Football Stadium Tour
If you don’t manage to get tickets to see a match, do the next best thing and book a football stadium tour. The two most popular being the Emirates Stadium for Arsenal fans, and Stamford Bridge for Chelsea supporters.
This stadium tour of Stamford Bridge takes you to the home and away dressing rooms, the press room, players’ tunnel, and pitch side, and you can get photos with the UEFA Champion’s League trophies, while at the Emirates Stadium you can walk through the players’ tunnel, and take your seat in the stands.
From the centre of the city, the tube is a great option for either stadium with the Emirates reached in under half an hour, and Stamford Bridge taking about 40 minutes. Tickets also include entry to the clubs’ museums.
Top London Shows with Teenagers
9. Abba Voyage
During our first mother daughter trip to London, we went to ABBA Voyage and absolutely loved it! While we are both ABBA fans, you certainly do not need to be to enjoy it. The incredible technology, electric atmosphere and outstanding performance will impress anyone.
The show combines digital versions of the four ABBA band members with a live 10-piece band in a purpose-built arena, and the result is so incredibly lifelike that you genuinely feel as though you are watching the real band perform. Whether you are a lifelong ABBA fan or simply enjoy spectacular live entertainment, ABBA Voyage is one of the best shows in London for teenagers and adults alike.
10. Mamma Mia! The Party
We loved ABBA Voyage so much that we returned to London the following year and went to MAMMA MIA! The Party, and it was another amazing experience! Held in a purpose-built theatre at The O2, the venue is transformed into Nikos’ Greek taverna on the island of Skopelos, making you feel as though you have stepped straight into the movie.
It is so much more than a theatre show! This immersive experience combines live performances, storytelling, dining and all of ABBA’s greatest hits. By the end of the night, I do not think there was a single person in the room who was not up dancing.
Tickets are expensive, but in my opinion they are worth every cent. A four-course Greek dinner is included, and the food was far better than I expected. If I had to choose between ABBA Voyage and MAMMA MIA! The Party, I would probably pick the latter. With the show, dinner and disco all included, it lasts three to four hours and feels like a complete night out. It is one of the most memorable experiences I have had London.
11. Six The Musical
London’s West End has no shortage of family-friendly musicals, from the Lion King to Paddington, but Six The Musical is one of the most popular shows with teenagers. This multi-award-winning production has been playing in London’s West End for more than seven years and is packed with high-energy pop songs, humour and dazzling performances.
The musical reimagines the lives of the six wives of King Henry VIII as a modern pop girl group, blending history with contemporary music in a fresh and entertaining way. With themes of empowerment, resilience and self-discovery, it is a fantastic choice for families looking for a fun and memorable night out in London.
12. The Hunger Games
The Hunger Games: On Stage features impressive stunts and special effects as Katniss Everdeen battles for survival. Showing at the purpose-built Troubadour Canary Wharf Theatre, the audience is drawn into the heart of the action through its immersive staging, making it feel more like a movie than a traditional theatre production. This should greatly appeal to teenagers and adults who are already fans of The Hunger Games books or films.
13. Stranger Things
For teenagers who are fans of the hit Netflix series, Stranger Things: The First Shadow is a must-see in London’s Phoenix Theatre. This spectacular prequel combines incredible special effects, illusions and gripping storytelling as it takes audiences back to Hawkins to reveal the origins of some of the show’s most mysterious characters and events.
Free Things to do in London with Teenagers
14. Stroll around Westminster and see Big Ben
For the iconic London photo, Westminster is the place to go. Within a 10-minute walk, you can see some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and 10 Downing Street.
Take the Underground to Westminster Station, served by the Jubilee, District and Circle lines and as soon as you leave the station, Big Ben will be right in front of you. From there, walk across Westminster Bridge for fantastic views of the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye.
Not only is this one of the best free things to do in London with teenagers, but it is also one of the best Instagram locations in London, making it a favourite spot with older teens.
15. See the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
Located around a 20-minute walk from Westminster, Buckingham Palace is one of the top London attractions and is well worth a visit, even if you only admire it from the gates.
However, if your London visit coincides with the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, I highly recommend you make time to see it. It usually takes place on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 11:00am and there is a Sunday parade with a military band around 10am. Times vary depending on the time of year so it is best to check the schedule on this link before you travel.
The changing of the guard attracts a huge crowd, so make sure you arrive early to grab a good spot with a clear view. This is without a doubt one of the most best London things to do with teenagers – and it’s free!
16. Walk across Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is one of the most iconic London landmarks. You can walk across it free of charge, or buy a ticket to explore inside and cross the famous glass-floor walkway for the best London views.
The area surrounding Tower Bridge has a fantastic atmosphere. There are plenty of excellent cafés, bars and restaurants overlooking the bridge, making it the perfect spot to stop for lunch or dinner while also visiting one of the great London attractions for teenagers.
Restaurant recommendation: For delicious Asian-inspired cuisine with spectacular views, book a table at Sticky Mango . Its stylish interiors and Instagrammable outdoor terrace overlook Tower Bridge, although the terrace is shaded during the day, so if you want to dine in the sun, I recommend booking around sunset.
Or if you fancy afternoon tea try the Ivy Tower Bridge, A riverside setting offering scones, sweet treats like a chocolate plant pot, and a tea blend selection for £37 per person.
17. Visit the Sky Garden
Widely regarded as one of the best free London attractions, the Sky Garden is a great place to visit with teens. Located on the 43rd floor, the Sky Garden offers stunning views of London from its outdoor terrace as well as having beautifully landscaped gardens and restaurants inside. While entry is free, you must pre-book your free tickets in advance.
Top Tip: Even with pre-booked tickets the queue can be quite long to get in, so If you are visiting around lunchtime, I recommend booking a table at Darwin’s restaurant which allows you to skip the queue as soon as you arrive. The food is tasty too, with delicious burgers that teenagers will love.
18. Explore Covent Garden
Covent Garden is one of the liveliest areas in London and a great place to visit with teenagers. As well as some great market stalls and restaurants, the bustling piazza is filled with street performers, creating a fun atmosphere throughout the day.
Charlotte Tilbury’s flagship store is located here which my daughter loved, and there is a Uniqlo Store here, which is very popular with teens.
Restaurant Recommendation: For a delicious lunch in the heart of Covent Garden, book a table at Balthazar. The London location of the famous New York brasserie is always buzzing, serving classic dishes in a stylish setting, and has brunch at weekends too.
19. Go Shopping!
While London may not be the cheapest place to shop with teens, there are plenty of stores and brands they won’t find at home and will be eager to explore. Camden Market is a must-visit, with its eclectic mix of vintage clothing, independent boutiques, streetwear, handmade goods and food stalls, making it a favourite with teenagers.
Covent Garden’s vintage shops and the stores mentioned above are always a hit, while Oxford Street, Regent Street and Carnaby Street are the best places to browse popular high-street brands and flagship stores.
If you only have time for one area, I recommend Regent Street and adjacent Carnaby Street. Made famous by TikTok, Carnaby Street’s independent boutiques, beauty brands and unique gift shops are a huge draw for teens, while Regent Street is home to the flagship Gymshark store, as well as many of the UK’s most popular high street and international brands.
20. Dine at Pizza Pilgrims
Known for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas and fun atmosphere, Pizza Pilgrims it is one of the best-value places to eat in central London. There are several locations across the city, including Carnaby Street and Covent Garden, making it an easy option to fit into a busy sightseeing itinerary.
Getting Around London
Getting around London is easy thanks to its extensive public transport network. The quickest way to travel is by using the Underground, with Tube stations located throughout the city, making it simple to reach major attractions, shopping areas and neighbourhoods.
A pre-purchased Oyster card is the most cost effective way to pay for travel on the tube, buses, trams and many rail services if travelling to London with kids. Children under 11 are free if travelling with an adult, age 11-15 are charged 50% of the fare but you need to ask a TfL station staff member to add a Young Visitor discount to the card. Simply tap in and out as you travel, and daily fare caps ensure you won’t pay more than a set amount, making it an excellent option for families exploring London.
If you’re only visiting London for a short time and don’t want to buy an Oyster card, you can also pay by tapping your Apple Pay, Google Pay or contactless debit or credit card on the ticket barriers and card readers.
The total amount is capped each day at I have done this the last few times in London and found it so handy, although I did end up paying full fare for my daughter this way. The maximum daily amount you will pay for travel within central London (Zones 1&2) is £8.90 and if you include travel from Heathrow airport it is £16.90. See more here.
I hope this travel guide on the top things to do in London with teenagers will help you plan a trip to this fascinating city soon. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, accommodation facilities and attractions are subject to change.
This post was sponsored by Keith Prowse. Note some of the links in this post contain affiliate links, where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.
