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| Family Day Out in South Kensington |
Morning: Magnificent Museums There are three fabulous museums in South Kensington, and each one could easily fill a whole morning. All three venues are free, so take your pick!
The Science Museum is packed with interactive exhibits that are both fun and educational. Learn all about the major scientific achievements of the past 300 years and take a peek into life in the future. You can also catch a film in the museum's IMAX 3D Cinema.
Dinosaurs, creepy crawlies and a huge blue whale are just a few of the amazing exhibits waiting for you at the Natural History Museum. Kids can handle treasures in the museum's hands-on science centre and examine geological specimens in the Earth Lab. Free Explorer backpacks are available for under sevens, filled with activities to keep them amused and help them get the most out of the museum. Don't forget to pay a visit to the Darwin Centre, too.
The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) is London's leading museum of art and design. The V&A is home to 3,000 years' worth of amazing artefacts from around the world. Every weekend the museum holds free special events for families, including Drop-in-Design, where you can create your own crazy designs inspired by the collections.
Lunch in South Kensington You'll find excellent family-friendly dining in each of the museums, as well as picnic areas if you've brought your own food.The Deep Blue café at the Science Museum is an award-winning family restaurant, offering activity boxes to keep younger children entertained.
Alternatively, try the delicious burgers at the South Kensington branch of Gourmet Burger Kitchen (GBK). With more than 28 varieties of burger on the menu, smaller burgers for kids, a vegetarian selection and an organic range, there's something for everyone.
Afternoon: Royal Parks After lunch, it's time to explore Kensington Gardens. Look out for the statue of Peter Pan and the Elfin Oak, a gnarled, partially hollow tree stump carved with figures of fairies, elves and woodland animals.
Children love racing around the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens. Inspired by the stories of Peter Pan, this magical playground has a huge wooden pirate ship as its centrepiece. There is also plenty of seating so you can relax while the kids embark on an exciting adventure!
After conquering the imaginary high seas, why not hire a boat and set sail for real? You can sail model boats on Round Pond in Kensington Gardens or hire a rowing boat or pedalo on The Serpentine lake in nearby Hyde Park.
Evening Meal in South Kensington End your day with a meal at Sticky Fingers. Founded by Bill Wyman, bass player with the Rolling Stones, this Kensington restaurant caters for all tastes, with burgers, steaks, fajitas, salads and more. A kids' menu is available with mains, dessert and soft drinks for £7.95 per child. And make sure you check out the cool band memorabilia decor.
