We’ve been fond of London Open House for over 12 years; with children or without, it makes a very special weekend of architecture and artistic treats, all free and mostly gems not open to the public on regular basis. And given our addiction over the years, we regularly update this article for best things to see at London Open House with kids or without.
Open House london guide with kids: Chiswick House
And in the last 4 years, we had an extensive and ambitious wishlists. Is it feasible with young kids?
Marborough House with kids
Well, as long as you’re ready to go with the flow, even at historical houses, glam clubs and governmental buildings the Open House volunteers have been graceful with our cheeky monkeys, entertained them with tales, experiments and games and even allowed them to sit at the Common Wealth table!
Best things to see at London Open House with kids: Hurlingham Club
In 2017 our kids were 4 years old and 17 months, so we picked strategically venues with outside space, where the energetic and unreasonable toddler can run some steam off with the father whilst the 4 years old and I can soak in some history.
London Open House 2017: Royal Court of Justice
It worked well, and London Open House 2017 included for us Chiswick House, Hurlingham Club, House of St Barnabas, and the Royal Court of Justice, all within our best things to see at London Open House.
Royal Academy of Art with kids and next door Burligton House with various societies: Geological, Chemistry, Astronomy (perfect for kids 5 years old and above)
In Mayfair we loved Marlborough House and relatively close Banqueting House – we wrote about in here.
Hampton Court Gardens
Hampton Court Gardens need little introduction: a stunning day out plus there were tours and various activities for the occasion.
Best things to see at London Open House in Kensington includes Leighton House
Kensington Roof Gardens (unfortunately closed down earlier 2018)
and Kensington Roof Gardens (unfortunately closed down earlier in 2018)
and if the weather is unreliable National Army Museum – new, very educational and interactive. Kids could design at NAM outfits, drive tanks, have a taste of soldier life – marching, taking orders, organising food provisions and cooking. There’s also a playbase area which is very cool – book in advance as weekend slots are very popular.
National Army Museum
There’s also Open House Junior collection 2019 – which has an extensive plan with the kiddies. A perfect week-end, London Open House is such a treat with or without kids!