Family Friendly Vacation Rentals London: Tips for a Stress-Free Stay

Kid & Coe Team

A child's bedroom with a cot and doll's house.

Planning a family trip to London? Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. Plenty of families are swapping hotels for family friendly vacation rentals, to gain more space, flexibility, and home comforts – making the trip more enjoyable for everyone. But how do you choose the right one?

Here’s everything you need to consider when planning your stay, from how to choose the perfect neighborhood, to what to look for in a family-friendly home.

How to Choose Between Family Friendly Vacation Rentals London

1. Location Matters

London is a huge and you’ll want to hone in on those key neighborhoods you want to visit. When looking for family friendly vacation rentals in London, start by identifying areas that are safe and close to the attractions you want to see, or to transport links. Here’s a few most-picked choices on Kid & Coe:

  • South Kensington – Ideal for families thanks to its proximity to the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and Hyde Park.
  • Notting Hill – A charming, quieter neighborhood with beautiful homes, luxury stores and weekend markets.
  • Marylebone – Great for being in the heart of the city, close to the major attractions.
  • Queens Park – Filled with families, with a laid-back vibe but easy access to the city via the underground.

2. Safety First

Safety is a top priority when traveling with children. Look for vacation rentals that are in secure buildings or quiet streets, and check any recent reviews to ensure other families have had a positive and safe experience.

If you know it’s a lived-in home used by another family, you’ll feel assured that those parents have picked a good, safe spot!

3. Space and Sleeping Arrangements

One of the biggest advantages of family friendly vacation rentals in London over hotel rooms is extra space. Look for rentals with:

  • Separate bedrooms (so kids and adults can have privacy) and kid-friendly rooms for little ones
  • Living areas for downtime so you can relax if you’re sightseeing
  • A great kitchen so you can save money on eating out

Having a space where your family can relax after a long day of sightseeing makes a big difference.

4. Kitchen and Laundry Access

Dining out in London every day can add up quickly, and it may not always suit picky eaters or early bedtimes. A kitchen allows you to, prepare quick breakfasts before you head out or even prepare picnics to take out with you (if you’re kids are picky eaters).

Laundry facilities are another game-changer, especially if you’re staying more than a few days or traveling with young children. Being able to wash clothes means you can pack lighter and stay comfortable, or do a quick wash so you don’t return home with heaps of laundry to clean.

5. Child-Friendly Amenities

When browsing family friendly vacation rentals in London, look for properties that go the extra mile for kids. Some helpful features include:

  • High chairs and cribs
  • Toys, books, or games + kid-friendly, fun interiors
  • Netflix or child-friendly TV
  • Outdoor space like a garden or balcony

Some hosts will offer local tips on nearby parks, child-friendly restaurants, and fun activities. If they’re a parent too, that’s super helpful!

6. Check Reviews and Ratings

Don’t just rely on photos. Past guest reviews are one of the best ways to evaluate if a vacation rental is truly family friendly. Look for mentions of:

  • How the host responded to family needs
  • Cleanliness and condition of the home
  • Proximity to transport and kid-friendly attractions
  • If they don’t have reviews, ask why not. Some hosts might have a new home, but might have great reviews of a previous property they can share with you.

7. Book Early, Especially During Peak Seasons

London is a popular destination year-round, but especially during school holidays and summer months. If you’re looking for the best family friendly vacation rentals in London, start your search early. Booking in advance ensures you get the best selection of family-suited properties and you’ll have more time to focus on the fun stuff – planning your itinerary!

Our Favorite Family-Friendly Vacation Rentals London

Booking a Family Friendly Vacation Rental in London

Choosing the right family home can transform your trip from stressful to seamless. Focus on location, safety, amenities, and reviews, and you’ll find a space that feels like a home away from home.

Grab your guide to the best places to stay, eat and go, with our Kid & Coe Passport to London.

Completely curated for child-friendly stays, it includes a 3-day family itinerary for your trip to the capital, as well as recommendations from our expert team, all downloadable with links to Google Maps, so you can take it with you on your smartphone.

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Kid & Coe Team