London en famille: a winter guide

With its crowds of puppets and marionettes, this vintage toyshop is sure to spark children’s imaginations – especially during the holidays. Come admire its Victorian model theatres, the trademark of the original shop opened by Benjamin Pollock in 1856. You might just fall under the spell of a pretty music box, a wooden nutcracker, or some old-fashioned decorations for your tree.

This charming South London museum is a perennial favourite for families in search of a little quirk and a lot of imagination. Top attractions are the butterfly house, aquarium, hands-on musical instrument gallery, eclectic World Galleries, and the famously over-stuffed walrus. Outside, there's an acoustic playground, farm animals, and stunning views across London.

Get ready for some Japanese culinary theatrics. Each table has its very own chef who will cook your food in front of you, flame-grilling meat, juggling vegetables, and (don't try this at home, kids) showing off some nifty knife skills. There's one near St Paul's – handy if you've been sightseeing at the cathedral or across the Millennium Bridge at Tate Modern.

There's no end of fun to be had at the Science Museum, from lunar modules to atomic inventions. Families should head to the aptly named Wonderlab, where older children can channel their inner Marie Curie with mind-blowing experiments, hands-on exhibits, and eye-popping live demos. For pocket-money gifts, stocking fillers and unusual presents, a visit to the shop is a must.