In Covent Garden the terrain is mostly pedestrian; it’s easy buggy terrain. Just watch out for clusters of tourists who block pavements and don’t understand, or even hear, "Excuse Me!" no matter what language you use.
Things to do: London Transport Museum
The collection of buses, trams, trains and all thing automotive was started in the 1920’s. The building was completely refurbished a couple of years ago making it accessible and modern inside despite it actually being the original Covent Garden Flower market.
Kids can dress-up like a train driver, pretend to drive a real bus and get involved with the hands-on exhibitions. They can sneak in and out of old train carriages, have a tumble in the soft play area and chat to one of the costumed actors who stroll about the place looking for a friendly conversation. Its a really fun, well thought out museum for families.
Admission: free for under 16s; Adults £8.00
Baby-changing facilities: Yes.
Baby feeding room: Yes.
Picnic area: Yes, indoor.
Ramp or lift access: Yes.
Free cloakroom: Yes, will accept buggies.
First Aid station: Yes.
Kiddie trail: Yes.
London Transport Museum, Covent Garden, WC2E 7BB
020 7379 6344
www.ltmuseum.co.uk
Eating: Livebait
A few minutes stroll from Covent Garden is Livebait, a restaurant renowned for its great fish and chips, plus all the fish is ethically sourced. Families are welcomed with a pile of colouring sheets and pencils and nothing is too much trouble for the young, fresh-faced staff that scamper round the restaurant in their smart outfits, like busy little penguins.
Children’s menu includes battered hake or free-range egg omelette with salad or peas, fresh bread, juice (there’s apple, pineapple, cranberry or tomato), plus a dessert (ice cream, sorbets or fruit) and to end a mini hot-chocolate or frothy milk. Price: £6.95.
Highchairs: Yes.
Baby-changing facilities: Yes.
Colouring/activity packs: Yes.
Child-friendly staff: Yes.
Style: Modern, fresh and airy.
Livebait, Wellington Street, WC2E 7DN
020 7836 7161
www.livebaitrestaurants.co.uk
Eating: Maxwell’s
Just off Covent Garden is Mazwell’s, an exciting and busy restaurant where children are treated like little grown-ups. Priced at £6.95 the Kids Menu comes with main course, dessert and a drink. There’s spare ribs, burgers, quesadillas, BBQ chicken salad or wraps. Maxwell’s Mess is highly recommended (strawberries, crushed meringues and cream.) Funky, vibrant and good fun.
Highchairs: Yes.
Baby-changing facilities: Yes.
Colouring pages: Yes.
Child-friendly staff: Yes.
Style: Busy, American-style grill restaurant.
Maxwell’s, 8 James Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 8BH
020 7836 0303
www.maxwells.co.uk
