London · With kids

Dinosaurs, a blue whale and a working earthquake room, all free — book a timed slot and go at opening. Works from about three.

The main museum is free; Wonderlab's hands-on gallery charges and is worth it for four to twelve. Same road as the Natural History Museum.

In Regent's Park, with penguins, gorillas and a walk-through monkey enclosure. Half a day; cheaper if booked online in advance.

A pirate ship in the sand at the Kensington Gardens edge, free, fenced and staffed. Adults only admitted with a child. Ages two to ten.

Under-elevens travel free on buses and the tube with an adult. Step-free tube stations are patchy; buses take buggies unfolded and cost less.