My wife and I, accompanied by our four year old daughter, will be in London in early June 2009 for five nights. I always enjoyed staying in Hampstead for its tranquil atmosphere, but perhaps I can be convinced to stay elsewhere. I expect most museum-type sightseeing will be limited to an hour or so per venue, with lots of time in cafes, parks and other non-stressful places for our child. Any strong recommendations for some other place than Hampstead and some special, moderate hotel for a stay?
Two museums which your daughter might like are the Royal Navy Museum East of London in Greenwich and the Royal Air Force Museum north of London in Hendon. 100 aircraft and its free.
Also take her to the shopping streets and walk all the stores with children's toys and clothing.
Have you seen this website:
London With Kids
Be sure to take your daughter to Hemley's. It is a great toy store not far from Picadilly Circus. It is really fun! Condier looking at hotels in the Leciester Square/Picadilly area. You would be near good tube conections and within short walking distance of many fun things!
Our kids were a lot older (14 and 11), but we enjoyed the Premier Inn at London County Hall (right next to the London Eye, 99 pounds per night 18 months ago). The rooms were spacious, and my son LOVED the playground in the park just outside the hotel. We spent lots of time there--the rest of us people watched while he played.
My family really enjoyed the Duck Tour! Brightly painted world war 2 vintage landing craft that are now used as land/water tours. The guide was funny and informative. They even do birthdays! so much fun and alot better than the long lines of the other cruise tours!