This time, London is unexpectedly on the agenda. Unexpected, because we suddenly had a few days off and so we had to make a split-second decision where we were going to spend them as a family. Our goal is to do London 'on budget', because it's all expensive enough as it is. It soon turns out that this is by far the cheapest for a family of two adults and two children with your own electric car. So hop, charge the car and go!
London is a city that keeps surprising you. With its rich history, iconic sights such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Big Ben, and the many museums that are often free to visit, there is something for everyone. Traveling with our electric car gives us the freedom to stop at beautiful places along the way and to choose a hotel that is not located in the most expensive part of London.
I am also a huge fan of British culture and the friendly, open atmosphere that you encounter everywhere in the city. We plan our adventure in such a way that we can have the real London experience without breaking the bank. Think affordable places to eat, free museums, and fun activities for the kids. It is high time that you fall in love with this world city as well. That is why I will tell you everything about how to travel to London with your kids without emptying your bank account.
Why by car?
The reason we chose the car was actually very simple. Last minute tickets for a family of four still cost between €600-1000 return. And by last minute we mean booking on Tuesday and leaving on Friday, returning on Sunday. The train is strangely enough, despite all of us shouting that we should travel more by train, just as expensive.
Moreover, flying to London is something you have to ask yourself if it is necessary. We drive electrically and so this way of travelling to London is quickly more sustainable than flying.
Advantages and disadvantages of traveling by car:
Advantages:
The ferry from Calais to Dover cost us €105, including car and four
people, and for that money we can go back too!
Calais is 'only' 309 km from Rotterdam, so it is easily accessible by car.
Dover to London is approximately a two-hour drive.
You can choose your hotel outside London, which is often cheaper.
Disadvantages:
London has a strict policy on environmental zones. You have the LEZ and the ULEZ to reduce air pollution. Basically, non-compliant vehicles pay a daily access fee to drive in the zones.
Electric cars are currently exempt, but must register in advance.
You have to drive on the left, not difficult but you shouldn't be afraid of it.
The crossing
The crossings are offered by several companies, for example DFDS, P&O and Irish Ferries . We booked with the latter and took the boat at 09:30. They say you have to be there at least one hour in advance. We were there and had almost immediate access to the ferry. Embarking is really very simple: first you get a check for your reservation. Then customs and finally you go to the designated queue. Ship arrives, drive on and park car. On the ferry (about 1.5 hours sailing) there is enough to do to kill time, but don't expect luxury here. It is fine.
Getting off is just as easy, a friendly customs officer asks what you are doing and lets you into England. Then perhaps the most exciting part begins… Driving on the left. We found this to be incredibly easy with our own car. Earlier this year we had a rental car in Scotland, right-hand drive and manual transmission and that required a bit more 'shifting'. Now I have to admit that it helps enormously that the average car of today can indicate the speed in miles as well as in KM.
The roads in England are not like the Netherlands, the number of charging points is even less. Make sure you cross with a full battery! There is no charging point on the entire M25 ring! The traffic flows well until you get to the city. Then you easily do 12km in half an hour.
Choice hotel
We chose a hotel outside London, simply to keep the price down. We ended up in Harlow, 30 miles above London. Because the traffic in the city itself was a bit disappointing, we decided to park the car in the city center on the first day. You can avoid this by choosing a hotel south of London. The hotel we had: Holiday Inn Express in Harlow. Great hotel with free parking and public transport to the city. For four people, two nights with breakfast and free parking, we paid €248 in total.
The first 24 hours in London
The first day we parked in the city centre in Q-Park Victoria, near the parliament. Unfortunately, the EV chargers here were not yet in use. From the garage you can walk to St. James Park in less than 10 minutes. What you don't want to miss:
Stop 1 | St. James's Park: A Peaceful Oasis in the Heart of London
St. James's Park is one of the oldest and most beautiful parks in London, and an absolute must-visit for anyone visiting the city. Situated in the heart of the City between Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square, this park offers a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its sprawling lawns, picturesque ponds and colourful flowerbeds, St. James's Park is an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature. Children will love the playful squirrels and the iconic pelicans that have lived in the park since the 17th century.
Plus, the winding paths and bridges offer great views of Buckingham Palace and the surrounding architecture. Whether you want to have a picnic, take a leisurely stroll or just enjoy the view, St. James's Park is a great place to start exploring London! Cost: Free
Stop 2 | Piccadilly Circus: The Beating Heart of London
Piccadilly Circus is one of the most iconic and vibrant places in London. Situated at the intersection of some of the city’s busiest streets, this bustling square is known for its huge, brightly lit billboards and the fountain with the statue of Eros in the middle. Piccadilly Circus is the beating heart of London, with always something to see and do. It’s the perfect place to feel the energy of the city, surrounded by theatres, shops and restaurants. Nearby you’ll find famous attractions such as Shaftesbury Avenue, Leicester Square and Regent Street, all within walking distance. Whether you’re in it for the architecture, the nightlife or just to soak up the atmosphere, a visit to Piccadilly Circus should be on your list.
Cost: Free
Stop 3 | Hamleys
Our third stop was Hamleys, especially for the kids.
Hamleys is London’s oldest and largest toy store, located on the famous Regent Street. This magical store, spread over seven floors, offers an unforgettable experience for young and old. With an incredible range of toys, interactive demonstrations and enthusiastic staff performing magic tricks and balloon tricks, it was a treat for our children.
But we adults also enjoyed the nostalgia and the cheerful atmosphere. A visit to Hamleys provided a nice balance in our travel program, allowing the children to completely immerse themselves in their own world while we enjoyed their joy and wonder.
Cost: Free
Stop 4 | Soho
After our visit to Hamleys, we took a lovely walk through the vibrant Soho neighbourhood on our way to the British Museum. Soho is a colourful and dynamic part of London, known for its diverse culture, vibrant nightlife and abundance of unique shops and cafes. As we wandered through the narrow streets, we were surrounded by a mix of historic buildings, trendy boutiques and charming restaurants. The streets of Soho are always buzzing with activity, with street performers, music and an energetic atmosphere that instantly captivates you. The children were delighted by the vibrancy and ever-changing streetscape, while we enjoyed the hustle and bustle and the opportunity to discover some of the area’s hidden gems. This walk provided a perfect transition from the magic of Hamleys to the cultural richness of the British Museum, and made our day in London even more special.
Restaurant tip: Hoppers Soho
Cost: Free
Stop 5: British Museum
Our next stop was the British Museum, an absolute must-see in London and a perfect destination for adults and children alike. This world-famous museum houses an impressive collection of art and antiquities from all corners of the world. From the mysterious mummies of ancient Egypt to the beautiful Greek sculptures and the Rosetta Stone, the British Museum offers a fascinating journey through history.
For the kids, it was an exciting adventure to discover so many different cultures and eras. The museum also has interactive exhibits and educational programs specifically designed for younger visitors, making it both educational and fun. For us adults, the museum offered a wealth of knowledge and beautiful artwork that left us deeply inspired. And best of all? Entry is completely free, making it an ideal stop for a budget-friendly day in London.
Cost: Free
Stop 6 | From the British Museum to Leicester Square
After our visit to the British Museum, we headed to Leicester Square, a vibrant centre of London known for its theatres, restaurants and shops. Our first stop in Leicester Square was the M&M's Store, a feast for the eyes and a treat for the girls. This colourful store, spread over four floors, offers an abundance of M&M's in every colour and flavour imaginable, plus a range of merchandise and unique souvenirs.
The kids enjoyed the playful atmosphere and the huge selection of M&Ms, while us adults soaked up the energetic atmosphere of Leicester Square. This stop was a perfect way to alternate the cultural adventure of the British Museum with a fun and sweet excursion.
Cost: Free
Stop 7 | Trafalgar Square: The Iconic Heart of London
Trafalgar Square is one of the most iconic and vibrant places in London, and a perfect stop when exploring the city. Named after the famous Battle of Trafalgar, this imposing square is dominated by the impressive Nelson's Column, a monument in honour of Admiral Horatio Nelson. Surrounded by majestic buildings and the beautiful fountains of Trafalgar Square, it is a bustling hub of activity and culture.
The square is a meeting place for both locals and tourists, and often hosts street performers, events and temporary exhibitions. Its open space and vibrant character make it an ideal place for a relaxing stroll, a moment of reflection or simply to soak up the atmosphere of the city. Furthermore, the surrounding buildings, such as the National Gallery, offer an opportunity to explore art and culture. Trafalgar Square is not only a central hub of London, but also a place that beautifully captures the spirit and energy of the city.
After 17 km of walking we decided it was enough and headed for the car. From there it was an hour to the hotel in Harlow.
Day parking: €65.-
Costs: €65.00
Day 2 in London, by public transport
Today we are going to London for a full day. Today we are not going to the city centre by car. From Harlow you can take the bus and then the train to the city centre. In principle, public transport is very affordable as long as it is within the M25 (ring). We are therefore driving to Stratford. This is a train station and is located next to a Westfield Mall. We can park here for 8 pounds per day (19 pounds on an event day). From here we can easily take the metro to Greenpark near Buckingham Palace
Stop 1 | Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
One of the highlights of our visit to London for the kids had to be attending the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace on Sunday morning. This ceremonial ritual is a real treat for the eyes and offers a unique insight into British tradition and ceremony. Only they didn't change... There were a lot of people but also a small sign saying 'No changing of the guard today'
The colourful spectacle normally begins right on time, with the Royal Guard arriving in an impressive parade, complete with traditional uniforms and musical accompaniment.
The Changing of the Guard, which lasts for about an hour, is a highly organized and theatrical display that attracts visitors from all over the world. The ritual is characterized by strict precision and is a wonderful way to experience the rich history and culture of the British Royal Family. Make sure you arrive early to get a good spot, as it can get quite busy around the palace. It is an experience that perfectly complements the magic of London and will leave you with a lasting memory of your time in the city if you experience it.
Cost: Free
Stop 2 | Royal Horse Guards
Another enchanting experience in London is a visit to the Royal Horse Guards, located on Whitehall, near Parliament and Downing Street. This magnificent ceremony, which takes place at Horse Guards Parade, offers a unique opportunity to see British military tradition in action. Every day (except Sundays) at 11am and 4pm – and on Sundays only at 11am – you can watch the impressive Changing of the Guard, where riders parade majestically in their traditional uniforms and gleaming armour.
Cost: Free
Stop 3 | Westminster Abbey, Parliament and Big Ben
After the impressive visit to the Royal Horse Guards, our next stop was the iconic Westminster Abbey and the nearby Parliament with Big Ben. In between, you will also walk past 10 Downing Street, the official residence of the Prime Minister. Not much to see, but okay. The historic Westminster Abbey, located on the east side of the Palace of Westminster, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and an important symbol of British history. Numerous royal ceremonies are held here, including coronations and weddings, and it is the resting place of many notable Britons, including Charles Dickens and Isaac Newton. A tour of the abbey offers a fascinating insight into its rich history and beautiful architecture, with its impressive chapels and funerary monuments.Between the Royal Horse Guards
Right next to the abbey is the Palace of Westminster, also known as the Houses of Parliament. This majestic building, with its neo-Gothic towers and impressive facade, is the political heart of the United Kingdom. While admiring the exterior, it is also a great opportunity to see the famous Big Ben – the iconic clock tower that is part of the Palace of Westminster. Although the clock is currently being renovated, the tower remains a recognizable symbol of London and offers beautiful views of the River Thames.
These sights are a must-see when exploring London, allowing you to experience both the historical and contemporary grandeur of the British capital.
Cost: Free
Stop 4 | Hidden gem: the IWM
After our exploration of Parliament, we took a short walk to a hidden gem: the Imperial War Museum. Situated in the borough of Lambeth, on the banks of the River Thames, this museum offers an in-depth and impressive look at the history of warfare, with a focus on the impact of conflict on daily life and the human experience.
The Imperial War Museum is a real hidden gem, especially since it is completely free to enter, making it an ideal destination for a budget-friendly activity. The museum houses a vast collection of military vehicles, weapons and the personal stories of fighters and civilians affected by war. The exhibits have been carefully curated to highlight the horrors and heroism of wars throughout the years, with impressive displays and interactive elements that are both educational and engaging.
For families with children, there is also a special treasure hunt that makes the museum even more fun and accessible. This treasure hunt is designed to guide young visitors through the exhibitions in an engaging and educational way, allowing them to learn more about history in a playful way. With its diverse exhibitions, including the famous V1 aircraft and an impressive collection of war art, the Imperial War Museum offers a powerful and often emotional experience for all ages.
Cost: Free
Stop 5 | Sri Lankan Food at Mercato Metropolitano
Our next stop was a culinary adventure at Mercato Metropolitano, a vibrant food market in the Elephant and Castle district. Known for its diverse and international eateries, this food market offers a range of tasty dishes from all over the world. We decided to treat ourselves to Sri Lankan food from one of the stalls, and it turned out to be a fantastic choice.
The Sri Lankan food stall serves authentic dishes with rich, spicy flavours that tantalise the senses. From tasty hoppers (a type of rice pancake) and spicy curries to fragrant kottu roti and refreshing sambol, the dishes were a real treat. The vibrant atmosphere of Mercato Metropolitano, with its cosy dining areas and artful decorations, made the experience even more special. It was lovely to enjoy a meal in a casual setting, while enjoying the hustle and bustle and the many other food stalls offering a wide range of worldly delicacies.
Mercato Metropolitano not only offers a great opportunity to explore different international cuisines, but also to relax and share a leisurely meal with friends and family. The Sri Lankan food there was a tasty end to our day, and it gave us a chance to discover new flavours and immerse ourselves in London’s multicultural cuisine.
Stop 6 | Walking to Tower Bridge
After our delicious Sri Lankan dinner at Mercato Metropolitano, we prepared ourselves for an impressive experience at Tower Bridge. This iconic bridge, majestically spanning the River Thames, is one of London’s most recognizable landmarks and offers a fascinating combination of history and engineering.
A walk to Tower Bridge is an adventure in itself. The bridge is an architectural masterpiece with its twin towers and suspended walkways, offering stunning views of the city and the river. Upon arrival at Tower Bridge, we collected the tickets to visit the exhibitions. This visit proved particularly interesting for the children, who were able to marvel at the history of the bridge and the ingenious technologies that have been incorporated into it.
Inside the bridge, you’ll find interactive exhibits that explain how Tower Bridge was built and how it still functions today. The glass floors on the upper walkways provide a thrilling view down below, making it extra special for young adventurers. The Tower Bridge Exhibition also provides a behind-the-scenes look into the bridge’s original control rooms, where you can learn more about the challenges of managing and operating this engineering marvel.
The visit to Tower Bridge was a great way to learn more about London’s heritage and engineering, while enjoying some great views of the city. It was a highlight of our London trip, both educational and engaging for the whole family. Gamification is also present here. The children are given a task to spot as many cats as possible and to have their Tower Bridge passport stamped at various times.
Cost: €40
Stop 8: St. Paul's Cathedral
Next up was the majestic St. Paul's Cathedral, one of the city's most iconic and impressive buildings. Situated on Ludgate Hill, this cathedral offers stunning views over London and is an architectural masterpiece that should not be missed. Designed by renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren, St. Paul's is known for its imposing dome that graces the London skyline.
Upon entering, we were immediately struck by the grandeur of the interior. The cathedral is richly decorated with beautiful frescoes, works of art and marble altars. The great dome, with its impressive height of 111 metres, offers breathtaking views of the city from the gallery. For the children, the climb to the famous 'Whispering Gallery' was an exciting adventure, discovering how sound can reverberate through the dome in a mysterious way. The further climb to the Golden Gallery at the top of the dome offers a panoramic view of London, an experience that is both inspiring and educational.
St. Paul's Cathedral also offers deep historical context, with exhibits and information about the cathedral's role in important events such as the memorial service for Winston Churchill and the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana. This visit was a great way to experience both the beauty and history of London, and added an extra layer of cultural richness to our trip.
After this beautiful church we decide to leave it at that. The children have walked no less than 22km. On the way back we walk a short round through the shopping mall in Strattford before we go to the hotel tired but satisfied.
Cost: Free
Day 3. No London, but Windsor
After a delicious breakfast, we decided on the third day of our trip to leave London behind for a while and drive towards Windsor. Windsor, located about an hour's drive from London, is known for its beautiful and historic castle, which is one of the official residences of the British Royal Family.
Upon arrival in Windsor, we were quickly immersed in the grandeur of Windsor Castle, the largest inhabited castle in the world. The imposing castle, which has been a royal residence for over a thousand years, offers a fascinating insight into British history and royal tradition. The tour took us through the State Apartments, where we admired the magnificent interiors and artwork, and St. George's Chapel, a beautiful Gothic church where many members of the royal family are buried, including King Henry VIII.
There was plenty for the children to discover as the castle itself is a fascinating maze of rooms, towers and gardens that invite exploration and adventure.
After our visit to the castle we took a leisurely stroll through the charming town of Windsor, with its historic streets and charming shops. This excursion was a perfect complement to our London experience, allowing us to discover another part of British royal history and experience the beauty of the English countryside. In Windsor we have a good lunch before driving back to Dover. We have the 17:30 ferry.
Costs:
Ferry: €105
Hotel: €248 Windsor: €130 Tower Bridge: €40
Parking day 1: €65
Parking day 2: € 19 (event price) Metro total: € 12
That is €619,- for four people. €51,58 per person per day! Of course, the costs of food/drinks are added to this, but you have influence on that yourself.
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