Exploring London: 3 children, 1 backpack and a visit to A+E

Traveling with three kids, including a toddler, meant planning was crucial, and it all paid off as we navigated the bustling city seamlessly. Here’s a recap of our two-day adventure and some tips for families planning a similar trip.

Day 1: Car, Train and River Boat for the City Views

Morning: Departure from Nottingham

We set off early in the morning, ensuring a smooth drive to Cockfosters. Parking here proved to be a brilliant decision. It offered affordable, stress-free parking and direct access to the Piccadilly Line, making our entry into London easy. We stepped back into daylight at Vauxhall and the children chose one stop on the clipper over the short walk. I get that.

Midday: Battersea Power Station and Lift 109

We arrived at Battersea Power Station. The redevelopment of this historic site into a modern shopping and leisure hub was impressive, the bigger area is magnificent too with plenty to do for a full day exploring and appreciating the architecture and history. We browsed through shops, enjoyed lunch, and finally took the highlight of the day: a ride on Lift 109. The panoramic views from the top were breath-taking, and even the kids were thrilled by the unique experience. For those that don't know, the lift goes above the top of the chimney for 360 degree views of London.

Evening: Paddington Basin

After a fulfilling day, we checked into our hotel at Paddington Basin. Paddington station was still humming with activity but Paddington added a little more quiet than central London can. The late night walk was perfect through the streets to reflect on the day before a modern canal crossing made us break our chat. We stayed in a Premier Inn family room, the location was ideal, offering peace after a day in the busy city while being close to the attractions planned for Day 2.

Day 2: Parks, Playgrounds, and Dinosaurs

Morning: Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

We started the day with a stroll through Hyde Park, enjoying the serene surroundings and soaking up the calm. The kids’ highlight, however, was the Princess Diana Memorial Playground in nearby Kensington Gardens. The pirate ship and sand play areas were a hit, giving them the chance to play and explore freely......until one false move on the smallest slide in the park lead to a split open chin to our youngest, a dash to St Mary's for some NHS Glue and amazing treatment and we we only lost 20mins on an already tight schedule.

Afternoon: Natural History Museum

Uber from the hospital to the Natural History Museum was for our convenience, although I would have liked more time in Hyde Park, luckily I booked entry, it seemed the perfect way to kill time for tourists. The dinosaur exhibits were a standout for the kids, while the rest of us marvelled at the Earth Hall’s impressive globe. It was the perfect mix of fun and education for everyone.

Return Journey

Post-museum, we aimed to return to Cockfosters via the Piccadilly Line and begin our drive home. But how do you resist stopping by Covent Garden if it's en route, we chose to show the girls the vibrancy of Chinatown before soaking up the charm of tourists and party goers all enjoying the start of NYE. At this point we didn't want to leave but dad mode engaged and we headed underground one last time.

Reflecting on the trip during the journey, we were grateful for the seamless planning and the incredible memories made. This was all possible with only a backpack and a stroller. Go seek discomfort