KidZania London is a real-life introduction to the world of work for kids aged four–14 to play.

Kids have four hours in which to work and earn ‘money’, which they can then spend in the city’s shops.

There are more than 60 professions to choose from, such as surgeons and fire fighters to cabin crew and journalists.

First impressions

On entering the city (which looks just like a mini town) kids will find the streets lined with real-world establishments, including a hospital, police station, fire station, airline and theatre, each offering real-life role play adventures in a fun and safe environment.

It’s a great concept and very educational.
Marks out of 10: 10

Comfort & quality

Parents can sit in cafes while their children ‘work’, so the attraction caters well for parents/carers.

Alternatively, you can follow the kids around (like I did!) to see what jobs they choose.

Everyone in the family wears a wristband and there are points dotted around the city so that you can locate the kids by scanning your band.

You can even get hold of the city photographer and request pictures to be taken, which can later be ordered as coasters, keyrings, framed pictures etc..
Marks out of 10: 10

Affordability

Although prices are high, for four hours’ non-stop entertainment in an educational environment, the attraction offers great value and the kids are already insisting on a second visit.

The only negative was that any money they earned wasn’t quite enough to spend on more than a small trinket in the shops, so we ended bringing most of it back home.

They did however manage to buy (and make) themselves lunch at the Gourmet Burger Kitchen.
Marks out of 10: 8

The details

The attraction is open during school terms Mon-Fri from 10:00-18:30 and at weekends from 10:00 until 19:30.

During holidays it opens from 10:00-20:00. Opening hours are subject to change so check the website before you go.

Prices start at £8.65 per child (ages four-14), for eligible schools and group parties, through to £29.50 for on the day ticket sales (£28 in advance) and £8.25 through to £18 (£16.50 in advance) for adults.

One adult can accompany up to five children (aged up to seven).

The top tip

Book to go early for the four-hour experience as it gets busier as the day goes on.

Also try the cabin crew experience which uses British Airways’ fuselage of an actual A319 aircraft – and where parents can play the part of passengers.

In summary

If it wasn’t for the expense, I would definitely be looking to go to this attraction several times a year; it’s educational, safe and the kids can’t stop raving about it.

In terms of overall scores, it will have to be 9/10 – it would have been a perfect 10 if it had not been for the spending money side of things (not being able to buy a lot with money earned).

This is definitely one to start saving for – and better still if you can book in advance as you’ll save money – which always helps.

See www.kidzania.co.uk for all the details.