Charing Cross Road (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Charing Cross Road?
What makes it 71% Kids-Friendly: Older children can enjoy Foyles kids floor, M&M’s World and Lego Store near Leicester Square, but fast traffic, narrow shop aisles and limited play space mean parents must supervise closely.
Positives:
- Central location: Close to Leicester Square and Leicester Square tube station for easy access.
- Mix of free and paid activities: You can adjust the day to your budget with both no-cost and small-cost options.
Challenges:
- Busy traffic: Charing Cross Road is a major route; hold hands and watch for cars.
- Cramped aisles: Some bookshops have narrow passages that may feel tight with a group.
- Weekend crowds: Leicester Square and shops get crowded; visit on weekday mornings to avoid lines.
What is Charing Cross Road?
- A principal north-south thoroughfare in London’s West End linking St Giles Circus at Oxford Street with Trafalgar Square and Charing Cross station
- A historic bookselling district renowned for its concentration of specialist, second-hand and antiquarian bookshops
- A corridor flanked by the Phoenix Theatre, the rare-book enclave of Cecil Court, and the western approach to Hungerford Bridge
What is so special about Charing Cross Road for with kids?
- Interactive fun at M&M’s World and LEGO Store
- Hidden Phoenix Garden perfect for a family picnic
- Unique children’s titles at Cecil Court bookshops
- Hands-on brass-rubbing and family trail in St Martin-in-the-Fields
- Short, easy walk with mix of free and affordable stops
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This timeframe lets you browse bookshops, enjoy interactive store zones, and relax in Phoenix Garden without tiring young kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Charing Cross Road
M&M’s World & LEGO Store:
Explore four floors of colourful candy displays and giant brick models.
Tip: Let each child choose one small souvenir to keep costs down.
Phoenix Garden Picnic:
Relax in this hidden community garden with flowers and birdlife.
Tip: Bring simple snacks and a blanket; volunteers often guide kids in bird-watching.
Children’s Bookshops at Cecil Court:
Browse specialist and antique bookshops for storybook treasures.
Tip: Encourage kids to pick their own story; many shops let them handle books gently.
Family Trail & Brass Rubbing at St Martin-in-the-Fields:
Follow a free trail in the church and try brass-rubbing on medieval plates.
Tip: Bring a penny each and pick up the trail map at the church entrance.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Charing Cross Road
- Use Leicester Square exit: Exit the tube directly into the square to reach M&M’s and LEGO store faster.
- Side-street browsing: Walk down Cecil Court early to enjoy quieter bookshops.
- Download trail map: Get the church family trail PDF online beforehand to save time.
When is the best time to visit Charing Cross Road (London, United Kingdom)?
In summer, Phoenix Garden hosts volunteer-led nature activities; in cooler months, cosy bookshop nooks keep kids warm. Check garden event dates online.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| M&M’s/LEGO souvenirs | GBP 20 |
| Children’s books | GBP 25 |
| Picnic supplies | GBP 10 |
| Café snacks | GBP 12 |
| Brass-rubbing pennies | GBP 2 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 69 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Charing Cross Road
Address: Charing Cross Rd, London, UK
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