London is the city that has it all

London calling and it’s well worth answering!

The old adage “If you’re tired of London, you’re tired of life” still rings true, and when I recently visited to look at what was on offer for families, I found plenty new things to entertain.

It’s a terrific destination to go with children, or grandchildren, as there’s just so much to learn, experience and enjoy!

As self-catering generally suits a family better than hotels, I elected to stay in a self-catering apartment, Plaza on the River.

Offering 65 suites, with options to stay for one night or up to a year, this resort offers all the comforts of home with the benefit of lots of facilities and services.

Conveniently positioned on the south bank of the River Thames, the majority of suites afford spectacular views of some of London’s most impressive landmarks such as Big Ben, the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament, and it’s only moments from underground and mainline rail networks.

There’s plenty of space for dining, but if you don’t want to cook, you can invite their chef to prepare a meal from the convenience of your own kitchen (I didn’t bother. With so many fabulous places to eat out in London it seemed a waste. But if you’re travelling with little ones who need a proper bedtime, it’s a great idea).

Each suite offers large, comfy beds and sofas, work spaces with wi-fi, and beautiful marbled en-suite bathrooms. See parkplaza.com.

I used the restaurant next to the apartments. The food at Chino Latino is excellent, and prices are reasonable. They cater for families, and their Pan-Asian cuisine restaurant also has a Latin cocktail bar. Kids love it, and it’s a good introduction to Asian food.

A great family day out is to Hampton Court Palace. As a fan of Tudor history this was a highlight for me.

What an absolutely stunning place it is, with enough to keep you occupied for a full day.

It’s just 35 minutes on the train from London Waterloo, and if you want to enthuse youngsters about history, it’s a great venue.

As well as the magnificent Henry VIII Apartments and kitchens, there’s the knockout William III’s Apartments and so much more. The Gardens and Maze will merit at least two hours on their own.

Still at Hampton Court, the Royal Chocolate Kitchen is open to the public for the first time in more than 300 years.

Thought lost for centuries, the kitchen was recently re-discovered with all its original fittings intact. Visitors can explore how chocolate fit for a King was made, and on the first weekend of each month, even watch chefs making Georgian chocolate.

There’s also the Kitchen Garden. This year sees the opening of the restored garden, exploring the history of the production of food for the king’s table.

The popular Hampton Court sleepover returns in May. Visitors should be prepared for an evening of Georgian intrigue amidst the splendour of a Royal Palace.

For a smidgen of adult entertainment, I mooched off to the National Portrait Gallery.

David Bailey’s Stardust is a landmark exhibition by one of the world’s most distinguished photographers.

More than 250 images illustrate the extraordinary range of subjects Bailey has worked with many famous, some anonymous, all unforgettable. It runs until June 1, entry is £16.

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre offers exciting and educational activities all year round, with the Globe Exhibition & Tour giving an opportunity to learn more about the Bard and the London of his day.

Regular Story Day sessions bring Shakespeare’s words to life, and there’s more fun to be had with Globe Playground, the new online play area for kids, populated by the friendly Beasts of Shakespeare’s Globe. Tickets are £13.50 for adults, kids £8.

One last recommendation for a healthy, good-value family restaurant is Wildflower Caf at 108 Chepstow Road, W2.

What do you get when you take three talented siblings with a shared foodie passion, the perfect venue and a great idea?

Fantastic fuss-free food and fabulous fresh flowers in a friendly, family-run eatery.

Every aspect of this unique caf/bistro-comeflorist is based on the simple policy of fresh seasonal produce, locally sourced wherever possible.

Organic fish, meat and veggie dishes, superb soups and delicious desserts. Wines from £17 and special kids’ menu with mains around £6.

See wildflowercafe.co.uk or call 02077929594.

Yep, London’s got the lot, so take the kids and enjoy!