Anytime my boys and I want to wander off to a magical land, we think about the stories that take us there. Books can provide a spark of curiosity or inspiration for travel. When I head to London with kids, for example, I start by grabbing some of my favorite story books to talk about and share the new places we may explore. Reading a book about London begins to familiarize my boys with the city and involves them in our planning. My youngest likes to know our travel plans well head of time, which is why children’s books are especially important to our family. He doesn’t like surprises, so if this kid is going to see Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Trafalgar Square, he wants to know what to expect when he gets there.

Reading books is a great way to explore a new place in the comfort of your living room. Whether you’re planning a visit to London with kids, or just want to share a new city with them, books are a great way to start.

Great reads before a trip to London with kids

This is London

by Miroslav Sasek
First published in 1959 and updated in the 21st century, this charming book features beloved illustrations by Miroslav Sasek. The playful narrative highlights the main attractions and unique characteristics of the bustling city! 

Grab it HERE

Madeline in London

By Ludwig Bemelmans
I just adore the Madeline book series and have such great memories of reading the books with my kids. Madeline in London embarks on a new adventure to London to “see the Queen”. The delightful book provides an introduction to the city to early readers and listeners.

Grab it HERE

A Walk in London

by Salvatore Rubbino
View the sights of London with this mother-daughter duo visiting the city for the day. The book features lovely illustrations and interesting trivia about the city’s main attractions. A perfect beginners guide to the city!

Grab it HERE

All Aboard the London Bus

By Patricia Toht  (Author),‎ Sam Usher (Illustrator)
All Aboard the London Bus is a delightful book filled with whimsical poems about the fascinating city. The book features beautiful illustrations by Sam Usher and loads of interesting facts about London’s “crowned jewels.”

Grab it HERE

London: A Book of Opposites

by Ashley Evanson
A playful book of opposites featuring all of London’s favorite spots and characters. The wonderful illustrations make London: A Book of Opposites a delightful book to share with the city’s youngest fans.

Grab it HERE

Paddington Pop-Up London

by Joanna Bill and Olga Baumert
A beautifully designed pop-up book based on the popular Paddington movie. The book includes six pop-up images and scenes direct from the movie. Celebrate the history and culture of London with the classic story of Paddington Bear. 

Grab it HERE

Katie in London

by James Mayhew
Katie in London serves as the perfect introduction to London for children of all ages. Katie, along with her brother Jack, embark on an adventure through the city with the Trafalgar Square lion. The illustrations capture the spirit and historic feel of the beloved city. 

Grab it HERE

My Little Cities: London

by Jennifer Adams and Greg Pizzoli
My Little Cities: London is a playful board book geared towards babies and toddlers. Start ’em young with this colorful introduction to London’s most famous landmarks. This book is the perfect gift to inspire future travelers. 

Grab it HERE

Maisy Goes to London

By Lucy Cousins
Part of the beloved Maisy book series, Maisy Goes to London showcases famous spots around the city. Maisy explores the city on a double-decker tour bus, a water taxi, and an underground train. Share in the fun with this delightful book!

Grab it HERE

The Queen’s Hat

By Steve Antony
Join this charming and exciting adventure through London in a chase for the Queen’s hat. Famed author Steve Anthony has created magic yet again with this delightful and silly book. Adventures aside, this book also serves as a guide to the city’s popular landmarks.

Grab it HERE

3 Go to London

by Oakley Graham (Author),‎ Olive May Green (Illustrator)
3 Go To London is an adorable guide through London’s city streets. Perfect for toddlers, this book follows the story of Panda, Fox, and Donkey after they find an envelope addressed to the Queen. The hardcover book includes a press-out and build London tour bus model (no scissors or glue required). 

Grab it HERE

The London Noisy Book

by Marion Billet
Little ones can discover the sights and sounds of London with this delightful children’s book. Hear the noises  from the London Zoo, Buckingham Palace, and a double-decker tour bus. Kids can also use their best detective skills to find the hidden crown jewel thief on every page!

Grab it HERE

Hello London

by Marion Billet
A playful and interactive tour of London perfect for toddlers. Kids can push, pull, and slide their way through some of London’s most famous sights. Hello London will entertain and teach little ones about the bustling city. 

Grab it HERE

Dodsworth in London

By Tim Egan
Tag along on an exciting adventure with Dodsworth and Duck as they explore the city of London. There is a case of mistaken identity, a lost duck, a hot air balloon, and so much more! Classic and sweet, this book is one to read.

Grab it HERE

The Story of London

by Richard Brassey
A gorgeously illustrated and informative story with all the facts you need to know about London. Famed author and illustrator Richard Brassey even promises to share some of the city’s best secrets – shh! 

Grab it HERE

What are some of your favorite London children’s books? 

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