Chinatown (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Chinatown?
What makes it 71% Kids-Friendly: Dragon dances, stone lions and bubble waffles entertain children, but fast-moving crowds and the absence of playgrounds or interactive museums shorten visit time.
Positives:
- Easy on foot: Flat streets make walking easy for children aged 3-12.
- Free play spots: Golden Square offers space to run and play after street browsing.
Challenges:
- Crowded at peak times: Gerrard Street narrows and fills up, which can slow stroller wheels.
- Limited seating: Few benches on street—plan for snacks you can eat standing or on park grass.
What is Chinatown?
- An urban enclave in London’s West End centred on Gerrard Street and nearby thoroughfares
- A cluster of Chinese-run restaurants, bakeries, shops and cultural organisations
- Marked by its traditional paifang gates, vibrant lantern displays and pan-Asian architectural accents
What is so special about Chinatown for with kids?
- Interactive lion statue hunt under colorful gates
- Picnic and play at nearby Golden Square
- Kid-approved bubble waffles and street snacks
- Glowing lantern stroll for memorable photos
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A visit lasting 2-3 hours lets you explore gates, shops, treats and a picnic without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Chinatown
Lion hunt & gate photo game:
Kids spot and count stone lion statues under the four gates on Wardour and Gerrard Streets.
Tip: Turn it into a family photo challenge and reward each find with a small treat.
Picnic at Golden Square:
Grab dim sum or snacks and enjoy a picnic on the grass in this nearby park.
Tip: Visit on weekdays for more space and let kids explore the public art installations.
Bubble waffle treat:
Buy Hong Kong–style egg waffles at Bubblewrap Waffle with sweet or savory toppings.
Tip: Share two portions among four to sample more flavors and avoid waste.
Lantern stroll at dusk:
Walk under hundreds of red lanterns hanging above the main streets.
Tip: Go just after sunset for the best glow and early photos before crowds arrive.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Chinatown
- Go on weekday mornings: Arrive before lunch on weekdays to avoid crowds and secure picnic spots.
- Combine with Leicester Square: Walk 5 minutes to Leicester Square Gardens for extra play and public toilets.
When is the best time to visit Chinatown (London, United Kingdom)?
Visit mid-Jan to Feb for free lion and dragon dances, craft stalls and street shows during Chinese New Year.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Egg waffles (2 portions) | GBP 10 |
| Dim sum picnic snacks | GBP 25 |
| Bubble tea or juice | GBP 12 |
| Small souvenirs | GBP 15 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 62 |
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 Chinatown
Address: Chinatown, London W1D 5QA, UK
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Chinatown (London)?
About Chinatown
10 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities