Marylebone, an elegant and charming area of Central London, is often associated with chic boutiques, leafy streets, and stylish Georgian architecture. But did you know that it’s also packed with fun facts and hidden gems that will make your kids say, “Wow!”? Whether you’re planning a day out or want to surprise your children with fascinating stories, here are five cool things about Marylebone that you never knew, including a family-friendly crazy golf experience.
1. Madame Tussauds – A World of Famous Faces
One of the most famous attractions in Marylebone is Madame Tussauds, a place where your kids can meet their favourite celebrities – well, almost. This world-renowned wax museum is home to incredibly lifelike wax figures of famous personalities from around the world, from movie stars and musicians to sports legends and even historical figures.
Kids will be wowed when they stand next to lifelike models of pop stars like Beyoncé or film heroes like Iron Man. They can even pose with royal family members like the Queen or William and Kate. The museum also has special zones like the Marvel Super Heroes 4D Experience, where children can interact with their favourite comic book characters and experience thrilling action scenes.
Madame Tussauds has been dazzling visitors for over 200 years, and the skill and detail that goes into creating each figure will leave your children with a newfound appreciation for art and craftsmanship. It’s a fun way to get up close to the stars while learning a bit about history and pop culture at the same time.
2. Regent’s Park – A Natural Playground in the Heart of London
One of the most beautiful green spaces in London is right on Marylebone’s doorstep – Regent’s Park. This vast park is the perfect spot for a family day out, offering endless fun for kids of all ages. From wide-open spaces for running around to picturesque boating lakes and formal gardens, there’s so much to explore.
For animal-loving children, the park is home to the ZSL London Zoo, where they can encounter over 750 species of animals, including lions, giraffes, penguins, and monkeys. Kids will love seeing these incredible creatures up close and learning about wildlife conservation.
In addition to the zoo, Regent’s Park has a fantastic playground where younger children can swing, slide, and climb to their heart’s content. With its peaceful pathways, colourful flowerbeds, and an outdoor theatre, Regent’s Park is a natural wonderland that’s perfect for a family picnic or an afternoon of adventure.
3. Sherlock Holmes Museum – A Detective’s Dream
If your kids are fans of mysteries and detective stories, they’ll be thrilled to know that 221B Baker Street, the legendary home of Sherlock Holmes, is located right in Marylebone. The Sherlock Holmes Museum is a must-visit for any young detective-in-training.
Step into the world of Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous fictional detective and explore the rooms where Sherlock and his sidekick, Dr Watson, supposedly lived and worked. The museum is set up to look exactly as it would have during the Victorian era, complete with antique furniture, old-fashioned detective tools, and Holmes’ famous deerstalker hat.
Your children will be amazed by the detailed recreation of Sherlock’s study and can even try their hand at solving some of his famous cases. It’s an interactive and educational experience that will make them feel like real detectives!
4. Crazy Golf at Swingers – A Fun Family Challenge
For a playful break from sightseeing, why not take the family for a round of crazy golf? Marylebone is home to Swingers, one of London’s most exciting crazy golf courses. Swingers combines the fun of mini-golf with a vibrant atmosphere, complete with street food stalls and cool decor.
The course is full of creative obstacles and surprises that will keep your kids entertained, from tricky loops to spinning windmills. It’s the perfect way to engage in some friendly competition while exploring Marylebone. Plus, the whole family can refuel afterwards with tasty snacks from the food vendors located inside.
Swingers is a great way to let your kids burn off some energy while testing their putting skills. Whether they’re beginners or mini-golf pros, they’ll have a blast navigating the quirky course. It’s also a fun way to take a break from the more traditional attractions in the area.
5. The Beatles and Abbey Road – A Musical Legend
If your children are music fans, they’ll be excited to learn that one of the most iconic musical landmarks in the world is located right in Marylebone – Abbey Road. This unassuming street is where the Beatles recorded much of their music, including their legendary album “Abbey Road,” with the famous zebra crossing on the cover.
Take your kids to Abbey Road Studios and let them walk across the famous crossing, recreating the famous album cover. There’s even a live webcam set up at the crossing so you can watch yourselves cross it later!
Abbey Road is a piece of musical history, and it’s a great way to introduce your children to the timeless music of the Beatles. The area is also dotted with other Beatles-related landmarks, so you can turn it into a fun musical tour.
Marylebone is much more than just a posh neighbourhood with pretty streets. From famous wax figures and iconic detectives to crazy golf and musical legends, this vibrant area is full of surprises that will leave your kids wide-eyed with wonder. Next time you’re in London, take your children on an adventure through Marylebone and show them the hidden gems that make this part of the city so special.
