This weekend, I realised it was time to take advantage of my own stomping ground. Too often, when you live in a big, exciting city, you forget to explore the wonderful things it offers.
London is beginning to warm up for spring, and what better way to enjoy it than to go to Victoria Park? We start our day with an amazing brunch at the Pavilion, a café situated by the lake in the park.
Table of Contents: Shoreditch with Kids
Victoria Park – Shoreditch with Kids
I had a very fresh and tasty avocado and poached eggs on sourdough toast, and our friends got the more exotic and intriguing Sri Lankan brunch. Brunch is served from 8 a.m., and it’s pleasant to start your day looking over the lake and watching the birds come asking for bread crumbs. Big swans reach their necks to fight with the ducks and pigeons over the bread that people throw them.
Dogs are welcome in the cafe, so naturally, there are many of them in all shapes and sizes sitting with their owners waiting to go for a run around the park.
After feeding the ducks, we walk a short way to the playground, which is a fantastic Alice in Wonderland-type place with sand pits, treehouses, and many climbing frames. Thankfully, there’s a toilet there too, so when the little ones need to go urgently, it’s right there.
Young V&A Museum – Making Egypt Exhibition
After letting off steam, we walk along the Regents Canal towards the Young V&A Museum, which is opposite Bethnal Green Station, where I bought tickets for us to see the latest Egyptian exhibit called Making Egypt. On the way, we stop for coffee and a snack at the marvellous vegan The Gallery Cafe there.
The Young V&A is always full of children running here and there, going to the theatre room or exploring the numerous interactive attractions and play areas available.
Making Egypt was a delightful dive into creativity and culture. With over 200 exhibits ranging from ancient treasures to modern marvels like a Lego Great Pyramid set and a glamorous 1920s beaded evening jacket, this exhibition feels as much about artistic inspiration as it does about ancient history.
If you’re expecting a gory, kid-focused breakdown of, say, the mummification process (did you know brains were pulled out through the nostrils? Yikes!), think again. While there’s a sarcophagus and colorful fragments of cartonnage (linen-wrapped coffin coverings) on display, the focus here shifts away from death and the afterlife. Instead, it highlights ancient Egyptian art and design’s enduring influence on modern creators like couturiers and filmmakers.
What’s especially lovely is how kid-friendly the exhibition feels without being patronising. Interactive hieroglyph games? Fun, educational, and a definite win. For kids, there are extra hands-on activities like drawing zones, storybook areas, and a treasure hunt that absolutely thrilled my daughter. There’s truly something here for every kind of museum-goer, whether they’re toddlers or “reluctant-adult-exploring-because-I-need-to-educate-my-kids” types.
Making Egypt perfectly combines historical intrigue with creative inspiration. Whether you’re 5 or 50, prepare for a few hours filled with discovery.
Early Dinner at Soda Pizza Restaurant
Directly across from the museum is a famous cocktail bar Satans Whiskers. There is a small alley next to it that leads to a very cool but hard to find gem of a pizza place called Soda Pizza. It’s got great Mexcal margaritas (too many are not recommended for lunch time ) and they even make the pizza in the shape of micky mouse for the kids if you ask them.
Right next door is the Four Points Flex hotel, which is perfectly located for the local attractions and also close to the Bethnal Green tube station. A bit further away, the Courthouse Hotel is outstanding for a higher-end hotel.
Relax and Indulgence at Beauty & Melody Spa
That evening I arrange for my friend and I to treat ourselves to a Spa treatment. We find an amazing deal on Wowcher for the Courthouse Hotel. My friend’s husband picks up the kids to take them to Rich Mix to watch Flow, so we can get some Mummy Me Time.
We walk to the Courthouse Hotel past shabby chic graffiti-covered walls and funky old restaurants and Shoreditch hideaways . The hotel is a grand building, the nicest in the street and made of stone. It’s a former Old Street Magistrates Court, well preserved and in the heart of Shoreditch.
Currently, on Wowcher, they have a Mother’s Day special there at the Beauty and Melody Spa, which is the one we took advantage of. There’s another great deal for a £119 (instead of £280) 50-minute couples’ massage (a choice of Swedish or deep tissue), 1-hour spa access, and bubbly for two in Shoreditch. All their Mother’s Day offers are so great, so all you Mothers, give yourself a treat this Sunday.
A perfect end to a perfect day out in Shoreditch with kids!
For me the massage at the Beauty & Melody Spa is genuinely one of the best massages I have had and a great way to relax after having the kids all day. Imagine no interruptions and a deep tissue 50-minute massage with just the right pressure. After your massage you can use the facilities, including the swimming pool, sauna, and steam room, and have a glass of bubbly. That’s the way to end your Perfect Saturday in Shoreditch with Kids!
Fun Facts and FAQs About Shoreditch with Kids, London
Fun Facts about Shoreditch for children:
The World’s First Theatre: Did you know Shoreditch is home to the location of the very first theatre in London? It was simply called “The Theatre” and was built in 1576. Even Shakespeare himself performed here!
Street Art Central: Shoreditch is like an outdoor gallery! The walls are covered in colorful, creative street art, including works by world-famous artists like Banksy.
Hipster Headquarters: It’s a super trendy place where you can spot quirky cafes, vintage clothing stores, and plenty of people riding bikes.
Jack the Ripper Mysteries: Maybe suitable for much, much older children/teenagers – hear about some of the chilling stories about Jack the Ripper’s case take you through Shoreditch and its neighboring areas. Spooky, right? I’m not sure I would be taking my child on this one!
Why is Shoreditch so popular?
It’s like a giant playground for art, history, and fun! People love it for the street art, cool markets, and quirky vibe.
What other awesome things to see in Shoreditch and Spitalfields with kids?
Tons of fun things! You can explore the famous Brick Lane Market, try different snacks, and even hunt for treasures in vintage shops. Don’t forget to snap photos of the amazing murals on the walls!
Other Fun things to do:
Explore Boxpark: A shopping mall made entirely out of shipping containers! It’s full of yummy street food stalls, small shops, and places to play.
Visit the Geffrye Museum (Museum of the Home): Learn about how people used to live throughout history. It’s perfect for kids curious about old houses and furniture!
Try Crazy Golf at Junkyard Golf Club: It’s not your typical mini-golf—think neon lights, wacky themes, and loads of fun.
Go on a Street Art Tour: Discover the coolest graffiti and murals around the neighborhood. Some of them tell stories, and others are just plain awesome to look at.
Spitalfields City Farm: This is a vibrant urban oasis where families can meet friendly animals, explore lush gardens, and enjoy a fun, educational escape from the city buzz.
What’s Shoreditch’s history?
Long ago, it was a hotspot for theaters and performances. Later, it became an industrial area, and now it’s one of the trendiest neighborhoods in London.
Is Shoreditch safe for families?
Shoreditch combines a lively atmosphere with family-friendly spaces. Like anywhere in London, keep an eye on your belongings, especially in lively markets or crowded areas. Stick to well-lit, busier streets in the evening for added peace of mind.
Are there parks or green spaces for kids to enjoy?
Yes! Shoreditch Park is a big, open space where kids can run wild. There’s also Allen Gardens, Victoria Park and Arnold Circus for smaller, quieter pockets of greenery. Perfect for a break from exploring!
Are there any indoor activities in Shoreditch in case it rains?
For rainy days, the Geffrye Museum (Museum of the Home) is a fantastic option with interactive exhibits. Or try one of many play areas and soft play centers dotted around East London. Plus, Shoreditch is close to Brick Lane, where you can grab hot chocolate and browse quirky indoor markets.
What’s the best way to get around Shoreditch with kids?
Walking is the easiest way to explore Shoreditch, as most highlights are close to each other. If little legs get tired, hop on a London bus or grab a family-friendly Uber (make sure they provide car seats if needed). The Overground at Shoreditch High Street Station is pram-accessible too.
Can we explore Shoreditch on a budget with kids?
Totally! Many of Shoreditch’s highlights are free, like strolling through vibrant street art-lined streets or people-watching at Spitalfields Market. Pop into the free-to-enter quirky shops or grab a picnic from Pret and relax in the park.
Are there family-friendly accommodations in Shoreditch?
Yes! Many hotels in Shoreditch cater to families. CitizenM and The Hoxton have comfy family rooms with extra space for kiddos. Airbnb options are also plentiful, from modern flats to cozy townhouses.
Is Shoreditch good for families?
Shoreditch is a mix of hipster cool and urban charm, but it’s not unwelcoming to families. The colorful street art, unique eateries, and green spaces make it an exciting place for kids too. It’s full of the unexpected, and kids love that energy!
Check out our easy trips from London posts:
Wivenhoe for the Weekend
Fun Day in Castle Combe
Day Outings in London with Kids:
Camden Town: Family Day Trip
V & A East Storehouse: Family Outing in East London
Stepney City Farm: Another East London must do with kids!
