Little Venice (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Little Venice?
What makes it 71% Kids-Friendly: Children enjoy the playground, Puppet Theatre Barge and narrated cruise, but unguarded water edges, scarce toilets, and the need for constant hand-holding along the narrow towpath lower suitability.
Positives:
- Level towpaths: Smooth, flat paths suit strollers and little legs, making it easy to walk along the canal.
- Free green space: Rembrandt Gardens and the towpath offer restful spots for kids to run and explore safely.
Challenges:
- Limited restroom facilities: Boat and café toilets lack baby-change tables; carry a portable changing mat.
- Weather exposure: Canal decks have little shelter. In rain or wind, the ride can feel chilly.
- Show schedule: Puppet Theatre Barge runs only on weekends and school holidays; plan around its timetable.
What is Little Venice?
- A convergence basin for the Grand Union and Regent’s Canals, forming a tranquil network of waterways in northwest London
- A residential and leisure enclave distinguished by Regency-era stucco facades, tree-lined towpaths and moored narrowboats
- An urban waterway district named for its Venetian likeness, highlighted by ornamental iron bridges and landscaped waterside gardens
What is so special about Little Venice for with kids?
- A relaxed canal cruise with onboard commentary and life jackets.
- A free, secure playground in Rembrandt Gardens for active play.
- A unique floating puppet show that delights children.
- Picturesque picnic spots along calm waterways.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a canal boat ride, playground play, a puppet show, and a picnic without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Little Venice
Regent’s Canal family boat ride:
Board at Little Venice for a 45-minute cruise to Camden with live commentary and views of London Zoo and Maida Hill tunnel.
Tip: Buy return tickets online at least 48 hours ahead to secure seating together and life jackets for kids.
Rembrandt Gardens playground:
Enjoy swings, climbing frames, and a sandpit in a quiet gardens setting beside the basin.
Tip: Visit early (8–10 am) to have the playground mostly to yourselves and take photos of the canal.
Puppet Theatre Barge show:
Watch a floating marionette performance tailored to children aged 4–10 on a vintage barge.
Tip: Book weekend tickets in advance; arrive 15 minutes early to choose the best seats for little ones.
Canal-side picnic:
Lay out snacks on benches by the water or on your own blanket in the gardens.
Tip: Pack easy-to-eat items like sandwiches and fruit; bring a waterproof mat in case the benches are damp.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Little Venice
- Online booking: Reserve boat and show tickets online to lock in family seating and best prices.
- Pack essentials: Bring snacks, water, sun hats or raincoats depending on the forecast.
- Early start: Arrive by 9 am to find nearby parking spots and beat midday crowds at the playground.
When is the best time to visit Little Venice (London, United Kingdom)?
From April to September, boat service runs hourly. In cooler months, dress kids in layers and bring rain jackets as docks can be slippery.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Regent’s Canal boat ride (family) | GBP 47 |
| Puppet Theatre Barge show (family) | GBP 48 |
| Canal-side picnic snacks | GBP 10 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 105 |
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 Little Venice
Address: Little Venice, London, UK
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Little Venice (London)?
About Little Venice
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