Planning a trip to London with your teens? This vibrant city offers endless possibilities to keep everyone entertained. Based on our family’s recent adventure, I asked my two daughters to come up with their top five activities from the trip. Without coordinating, they both came up with the exact same list—and that’s the list I’m sharing here. These experiences aren’t just fun—they also make for unforgettable memories.

1. Wander Through Notting Hill & Visit the Famous Bookshop

Notting Hill is the perfect neighborhood to explore with teens. The colorful houses, charming streets, and lively vibe make it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. One of our highlights was visiting The Notting Hill Bookshop. Fans of the movie Notting Hill will love stepping inside this adorable store that looks just like it does on-screen. Beyond the cinematic nostalgia, it’s a cozy place to browse books and enjoy a quiet moment. The girls even bought books to take home as souvenirs.

We also loved exploring Portobello Road Market, where the girls picked up unique souvenirs and soaked in the bustling market atmosphere. From vintage finds to delicious street food, there’s something for everyone.

2. Experience the Magic of ABBA Voyage – A Concert Like No Other

If your teen loves music, ABBA Voyage is a must-see. This one-of-a-kind concert experience features hyper-realistic holograms of the iconic band. It truly feels like you’re watching ABBA perform live, with their greatest hits and stunning visuals. The energy is contagious, and even those who aren’t die-hard fans will find themselves singing along.

My daughters’ favorite songs from the show were Chiquitita and Dancing Queen, and seeing them performed in such a unique way made it even more special. It’s a night your family won’t forget.

3. Stroll Through Primrose Hill & Explore Camden Market

For a quieter moment, head to Primrose Hill, one of London’s most picturesque neighborhoods. The streets are lined with unique, pastel-colored houses that feel straight out of a storybook. It’s especially magical on a drizzly day—a quintessential London experience. Plus, the actual hill offers incredible views of the city skyline. Bring a picnic or grab coffee from a local cafe and soak in the charm.

This spot held an extra special meaning for our family because we visited Chalcot Crescent, where my husband (the girls’ dad) lived as a student. Next door, we even spotted Paddington’s house—the one featured in the movie! It was a wonderful blend of nostalgia and cinematic charm.

Afterward, we made our way to nearby Camden Market, a vibrant and eclectic spot filled with food stalls, vintage shops, and street art. It was the perfect contrast to the peaceful charm of Primrose Hill, adding an energetic and colorful twist to our day.

4. Step Into the Wizarding World at Harry Potter Studios

While not in central London, The Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter is worth the trip. This is every Potterhead’s dream come true. My daughters have read the Harry Potter series from start to finish at least ten times (no joke!), so this was absolutely a top experience on our list. Your teens can walk through authentic sets, see costumes worn by the cast, and try famous wizarding treats like Butterbeer.

Each of my daughters had a favorite moment during the visit. Mikka was particularly awed by the big Hogwarts model at the end, while Netta loved seeing the actual costumes worn in the movies. The behind-the-scenes look at how the movies were made adds a fascinating layer to the experience. It’s magical, immersive, and perfect for all ages.

5. Take a Scenic Day Trip to Cambridge

For a change of pace, hop on a train to Cambridge. Just an hour from London, this historic university town is easy to explore on foot. For our family, this trip was particularly special because my husband studied there. He gave us a personal tour, taking us to his college, the library, and his favorite spots—including a local ice cream shop. Touring Cambridge like a local made the experience so meaningful, but even if you don’t have a guide, the town is magical.

From punting on the River Cam to exploring the bustling markets and quaint cafés, Cambridge feels like stepping onto a movie set. The train ride there is equally beautiful, with views of the English countryside that add to the adventure.

Is London a Great Destination for Teenagers?

According to my teenager, London was just as magical as she imagined it to be. From the double-decker buses to the iconic townhouses, it felt like stepping into the pages of a book or the scenes of a movie. The city’s mix of history, culture, and fun activities left her eager to return and explore even more.

Traveling as a family made the experience even better. With everyone bringing their unique vibe to the trip, we struck a balance that kept things exciting and comfortable for all. Whether your teens are into music, movies, history, or just wandering beautiful streets, London has something for everyone.

Where We Ate: Our Favorite Restaurants in London

• Moro Restaurant – A vibrant spot blending Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, offering creative dishes in a lively atmosphere.
• Nonna Selena Pizzeria – A cozy, family-run pizzeria serving authentic, wood-fired pizzas with a welcoming Italian touch. It’s nothing fancy but great place to go for dinner if your hotel is nearby.
  Nonna Selena Pizzeria
• Master Wei – A hidden gem for Sichuan cuisine, offering bold, flavorful dishes with a perfect balance of spice and freshness. Highly recommended if you’re in the area.
• Quick Bites at Pret A Manger– For a quick and tasty pick-me-up, Pret A Manger was our go-to. With fresh sandwiches, wraps, and coffee, it was the perfect stop to recharge between activities—and you’ll find one on almost every corner in London!

Looking for more family travel ideas? Check out our 10-Day Family Itinerary from Rome to the Amalfi Coast or our favorite Family Road Trip from NYC to Acadia National Park. If you’re ready to start planning your next family getaway, feel free to get in touch with me here or sign-up for our newsletter.