10 ways to keep the kids occupied during a train journey to London

This Easter we are planning a day trip to London with the kids. It will be Jack's first time visiting the big smoke and ever since we visited the Southbank, Natural History Museum and Science Museum with Harry and Heidi a few years ago, they have been begging us to return.

There's no getting away from the fact that accommodation in London is expensive, especially as a family of 5 when it's not as easy as booking a cheap Travelodge deal. After a lot of careful consideration we have decided to travel from Newcastle to London and back in one day. Virgin Trains East Coast can get you there in under 3 hours so really, it should be quicker than driving somewhere like Alton Towers and when you look at it like that, it makes sense.

Virgin Trains customers are also eligible for various 2 for 1 offers when visiting the capital on top attractions including The Tower of London, Madame Tussauds London, The London Eye, ZSL London Zoo and lots more. We're planning on visiting The Houses of Parliament (it's on my bucket list!) and Madame Tussauds London then exploring a little of the Southbank before heading home.

We have endured many LONG journeys in the car before (remember Peppa Pig World in 2014) so I am sure a short trip on the train will be a breeze in comparison. Especially as I can enjoy a glass or two of wine on the way home! However I have found a few things that will keep the kids occupied during our journey. Some of these links are affiliate links.

First of all, I have fallen in love with this London Bus Back Pack 

1 - Sticker Dolly Dressing London 

There is a part of Madame Tussauds London that is dedicated to  London Fashion Week and I'm sure this will inspire our creativity.

2 - London Activity Pack

We bought this is 2014 and it was such a good buy that I am planning on buying them again.

3 - 100 Things for Little Children to do on the train 

We have the car version of these cards and there is loads to keep the little one's entertained and I'm sure the train version will be just as good. 

4 - iPad 

Nothing like a good old electronic babysitter for keeping the kids entertained for a bit :-) 

5 - London children's map for kids 

Again, we bought this for our last trip to London and it was actually handy for grown ups too! 

6 - Learn to draw a London bus 

I love this little activity and might even have a shot myself. 

7 - London themed picnic lunch  (Photo Credit:-  Eats Amazing)

This London themed packed lunch box will make for a wonderful snack on board.

8 - Teach the kids how to use the underground

I know that some grown ups struggle to use the underground and I think navigating public transport is a very important skill for children to learn. We'll use the tube map in our children's map to help us plan these and our own journeys. 

9 - Play Uno 

Uno is our family's favourite game and I'll definitely be popping our deck into my handbag.

10 - London colouring book 

I just love this colouring book and think I'll not be able to resist helping out. 

What do you think? Have you travelled to London via train with the kids? Let me know your tips too. 

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