How to plan the ultimate family trip in London

Decorated with wood, copper and lashings of greenery, the Garden Museum’s café opens onto an indoor garden with a view of the river. It’s a pleasing spot with a daily changing menu, rustled up from seasonal produce by the two young chefs. Cornish prawns with homemade harissa, free-range beef Wellington, cherry-blossom baba… Finally, a museum pitstop that truly embodies the culinary spirit of London.

Come say hello to two new Londoners: Little Grey and Little White, two beautiful Beluga whales. Their new sanctuary is the latest addition to the aquarium’s rescue and conservation work with threatened species. It’s also an interactive paradise for little ones, who’ll take great delight in walking over the shark tank, looking into a manta ray’s eyes, or tickling an anemone.

This free-to-visit art gallery showcases works from the private collection of Damien Hirst. Solo artists and group exhibitions take over the vast, converted spaces of this Victorian brick building. Keep your eye sharp with Picasso, Bacon, Banksy, Tracy Emin, as well as young emerging artists. While you’re at it, give the little ones a chance to discover contemporary art.

At the heart of the bustling South Bank, tuck into tacos and burritos while watching boats glide down the Thames. Perched above the hubbub in some old shipping crates, this eco-friendly chain offers affordable, delicious Mexican cuisine. It’s popular with laid-back Londoners, who happily stop by for fuss-free enchiladas and churros. Parents, this is your chance to make an impression.

If you can’t get enough of concrete and urban landscapes, take the time to wander among the stark surfaces of the National Theatre and the Southbank Centre. These auditoriums date from the 50s and 70s, though recent restorations have revealed their full glory. Don’t miss the Hayward Gallery for its remarkable art shows, or Queen Elizabeth Hall’s rooftop for unobstructed views of the Thames.

Young fans of skating and street culture will feel right at home at this outpost of the celebrated checkerboard brand. Much more than a shop, this funky venue packs in an art gallery, a concert hall, a restaurant, and of course, ramps. Why not book a class to finally get to grips with the back flip? If that’s a little too daunting, just drop in to admire the mad skills of London’s talented skaters.