Beautiful books about London for children

This Is London by Miroslav Sasek (Universe)

The gorgeous retro illustrations are the star of this classic book that opens with a brown page: “Well, this is London – hidden by fog.” Ha, ha. A wonderful piece of vintage nostalgia depicting the London of a bygone era.

The Ladybird Book Of London by John Berry (Ladybird)

First published in 1961, this vintage Ladybird book harks back to a London past. Of a time when you could stroll up to the door of 10 Downing Street or ride an elephant at London Zoo… The narrator’s tone is at once companionable and instructive –like that of a school teacher who is both liked and respected. Factual information is interspersed with friendly asides – on describing Madame Tussaud’s, the narrator quips, “You must be careful of one thing; before you ask an attendant the way, make sure he is an attendant and not a waxwork figure!”

A Walk In London by Salvatore Rubbino (Walker)

A more contemporary London emerges from the pages of this beautifully illustrated book. A girl and he mother are taking in the sights of the city, from the hustle and bustle of Westminster to the green oasis of St James’s Park with its proliferation of feathered friends. In true British fashion, the day-tripping duo get caught in a shower, prompting the purchase of that city essential – a black umbrella.

Charlie And Lola: We Completely Must Go To London (Puffin)

The girl of high hyperbole is off on a school trip to the capital with brother Charlie and their friends. Under the protection of teacher Mrs Hanson (like Charlie and Lola’s parents, you never actually see her), the group take in attractions such as the Natural History Museum, Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London. Lauren Child’s signature style is evident in collage-like touches – are those daisies adorning the Union Jack?

See Inside London by Rob Lloyd Jones and Barry Ablett (Usborne)

From the Ancient Romans’ Londinium settlement to the modern iconic architecture, by way of plague and The Great Fire en route, there are plenty of interactive flaps to inspire your child to explore the vast history of our capital city.

London Sticker Activity Book
 (Usborne)
The perfect companion for a day trip to London, there are stickers of the sights you might expect to see on your visit, including Big Ben and the London Eye, as well as matching games, puzzles, and colouring activities

Pop-Up London by Jennie Maizels Walker, £14.99

The city’s most iconic landmarks literally burst forth from the pages of this amazing 3D pop-up book. With tons of fun flaps for your child to lift up
and pull, there is also brilliant attention to detail, including a smart marching band outside the palace gates.

London: A 3D Expanding Skyline by Sarah McMenemy (Walker)

This fold-out guide concertinas to a length of 150cm, taking in 12 of London's most famous size. It's small size means it can easily be slipped in a child's rucksack to be taken out and referred to when you're out and about.