We've traipsed all over London to find the best experiences and bargains for your entire family!

SEE A SHOW FOR HALF-PRICE
The best thing about the London's West End theatre district is there's always a performance on. Not only are there matinee and evening times to choose from, a few shows - including Dirty Dancing - offer an early evening performance.
One musical that will appeal to all the family is Disney's The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre, which has been running for seven years. Other family favourites include Mary Poppins and Billy Elliott. For theatre information and details on how to get half-price tickets, visit Official London Theatre

HIGH STREET HAUTE
Topshop is one London destination every fashion lover has to make time to explore. This affordable fashion emporium's flagship store at Oxford Circus has its own style adviser, manicure bar, blow-dry bar and regular runway shows of the latest and hottest fashions.
Topshop is a fashionista's paradise, with brilliant new ranges in store daily. Kate Moss will even have her own fashion line here from April. Once inside, you'll spend hours scouring the floors of cheap chic.

Make time to check out Primark too. This Irish chain features designer copies at bargain prices. It's the perfect London fashion fix.

SHOP HEAVEN
Situated right smack bang on Regent Street, Liberty of London's Tudor building is a must-see. What used to house bolts of material, now plays host to cutting edge fashion and beautiful homewares, along with the best cosmetics and fragrances. The entire place is quintessentially British from its divine florist to the unique bespoke furniture.

FOR KIDS
The recently refurbished Hamleys is a must-see for the entire family. The massive store features seven floors of toys. It's a wonderland for kids and adults alike with numerous interactive demonstrations to keep everyone amused for hours.

A GIANT PLAYGROUND There's an ongoing Children's Audio Tour of the Tate Modern where your kids can experience the award-winning audio tour narrated by children's author Tony Robinson. It's a very entertaining and insightful commentary about the gallery's current collection.

THE TOUR FOR FIRST-TIMERS
If you only had one day in London to see the sights, a Big Bus tour should be at the top of your list.

You'll be driven around London's streets in style on a double-decker open-air big bus. Drive past Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, The Tower of London, Madam Tussauds and areas such as Notting Hill, Knightsbridge and Piccadilly Circus.

There are three tours to choose from - all taking you on a different route through the heart of the city. With live commentary from a tour guide, you'll learn more about the sites and get quirky stories and facts to go along with it.
You can stay on the bus for the tour or hop on and off at various attractions. To save time, purchase your tickets to the sites from your guide. A bonus included in your ticket is a cruise of the River Thames and a themed guided walking tour - The Beatles and Ghosts by Gaslight are just two you can choose from. It costs around $50 per adult ticket.

THE MUST SEE

The very best way to start your London trip is to go for a quick whirl on the London Eye. It's the world's tallest observation wheel, with sweeping panoramic views of the city below. It will take your breath away and, quite rightly so, has been named the best tourist attraction in the world.

Your gradual 30-minute flight in one of the 32 capsules takes you 135 metres above London where you will see all the major historical landmarks - from Big Ben to Westminster Abbey.

It's a unique way to absorb the city and will help you to start planning your complete London adventure. Pick a clear day to travel on and try early morning or late afternoon to avoid the rush of the peak periods. Pre-book your tickets through the website to avoid queuing, it costs around $36 a ticket.

WHERE TO STAY
The Courthouse Hotel Kempinski is one of the best places to stay. This new hotel was once a magistrate's court and has since been restored. While not cheap, the amount you save in taxi fares is worth the investment - with the hottest theatres, shops and restaurants only a short walk away. Look online to find some wonderful web specials.

TO GO: British Airways has daily flights from Sydney to London, with connecting services to Europe's most extensive network. BA features the Skyflyers club for children, with loads of goodies and services including dedicated TV channels. Also, BA's 'feed kids first' policy allows you to ensure the little ones are sorted so you can enjoy your own meal in peace. There's even online check-in for families. Visit www.ba.com or call 1300 767 177.

For more London info, click on Visit London.

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