Some travelers recommended the Premier Inn and Travelodge chains for budget-friendly options in central London, with prices potentially fitting within a $150-250 range. The Premier Inn County Hall and Travelodge Covent Garden were specifically mentioned for their good rates and central locations.

For those with a higher budget, hotels like One Aldwych and Cafe Royal were suggested, provided they fit within the budget constraints. One Aldwych was particularly recommended if available for under $500 per night. The Radisson Blu Edwardian Mercer Street Hotel and The Henrietta Hotel are also considered good choices, with prices around 300-500 pounds per night.

For families, the Park Plaza County Hall was highlighted as a great option due to its proximity to major attractions like the London Eye and its vibrant surrounding area. This hotel, alongside the Premier Inn located in the same building, offers a balance of convenience and potentially more budget-friendly rates.

Travelers have called out the importance of location in London due to the spread-out nature of attractions. Areas like Kensington, Covent Garden, and the County Hall area are frequently recommended for their safety, accessibility, and proximity to tourist sites.

According to forum posts, travelers can take the Piccadilly line of the Underground, which connects Heathrow directly to central London in about 45-50 minutes. This is often considered the cheapest and most straightforward option. Another alternative is the TfL Rail services to Paddington, which operates even during some disruptions like rail strikes.

Some travelers mentioned the Heathrow Express (HEX), which provides a faster connection from Heathrow to Paddington Station, taking approximately 15 minutes. However, it tends to be more expensive and may not be the most convenient option if the final destination is not near Paddington.

For those preferring a more private option, forum users suggested booking a car service, which offers convenience especially for those with more luggage. Prices and journey times can vary greatly depending on traffic, with estimates not explicitly detailed in the posts.

According to forum posts, some recommended day trips from London include Cambridge, Oxford, Brighton, Canterbury, Portsmouth, Winchester, Salisbury, and York. Each of these destinations offers unique attractions and can be reached approximately within an hour by train, except for York, which is about two hours away.

Some travelers suggested specific activities such as punting in Cambridge, which is highlighted as a favorite. Additionally, Salisbury is noted for its proximity to Stonehenge and the majestic Salisbury Cathedral.

For those preferring organized tours, it's mentioned that London Walks offers day trips to places like Cambridge. These trips are appreciated for being well-organized and informative, providing guided explorations with knowledgeable guides.

According to forum posts, many users recommend using the London Underground and buses for family-friendly transportation in London. These options are not only economical but also provide an enjoyable experience for children. Travelers have called out that children under a certain age can travel for free, making these options cost-effective for families.

Some travelers said that for direct transfers, especially from airports to the city, private car services like Blackberry Cars or Parker Cars are recommended. These services are noted for their convenience and the ability to accommodate families with children, offering a comfortable travel experience right from the point of arrival.

For managing travel costs effectively, forum members suggest using contactless payment methods or an Oyster card. These payment options automatically cap daily expenses, ensuring that families do not spend more than necessary on public transport. This method is particularly useful for extensive travel across the city.

According to forum posts, London hosts a variety of popular annual festivities. Notting Hill Carnival, highlighted by travelers, is a vibrant event featuring costumes, music, and a parade, with distinct experiences on both children's day (Sunday) and the main parade day (Monday). The discussion also mentions a steel band competition on Saturday night during the carnival weekend.

Travelers have called out Easter as a quieter holiday in London, with no major city-wide events compared to Christmas, but small-scale activities like Easter egg hunts for children and church services occur. Additionally, a Passion Play in Trafalgar Square on Good Friday was mentioned, which could be of interest to those visiting during the Easter weekend.

For many users, New Year's Eve in London is a highlight, with discussions around bars and restaurants that offer special celebrations. Although specific event details for New Year's Eve weren't provided, the interest suggests significant activities and celebrations occur city-wide during this festive night.

Some travelers have suggested a variety of teen-friendly activities in London that cater to different interests. For those interested in history and military, the Churchill War Rooms and the Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London have been recommended. For entertainment, options like a ghost bus tour, bike tours, and a ride on a RIB down the Thames are popular among teenagers.

For more interactive and unique experiences, some users have mentioned activities like the Tomb Raider Live experience, which combines an immersive environment with elements of an escape room. Additionally, visiting markets such as Camden Market can be a fun experience, offering a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of stalls and food options.

Outdoor enthusiasts might enjoy bike riding in various parts of the city or a boat ride from Richmond Park. Furthermore, for those interested in cultural activities, attending a musical in the West End or exploring the offerings at the British Museum could be appealing.

According to forum posts, the National Gallery and the Tate Modern are highly recommended for art enthusiasts. The National Gallery offers a classic art experience with works by artists like Van Gogh, whereas the Tate Modern is celebrated for its modern art installations and exhibitions.

For those interested in history and culture, the British Museum is a must-see, known for its vast collection of artifacts. Additionally, the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum, both located in South Kensington, are popular for their engaging and educational exhibits, ideal for families and science lovers.

Travelers have called out the Churchill War Rooms and the Museum of London for those looking for a deep dive into specific historical periods. The Churchill War Rooms offer an immersive experience into wartime history, while the Museum of London provides insights into the city's rich past from Roman times to the present.

Some travelers suggested exploring less conventional museums like the Hunterian Museum and the Wellcome Collection for unique medical and scientific collections. These museums offer distinctive exhibits that are not typically found in more mainstream locations.

According to forum posts, London's public transport system is cashless, allowing payments through contactless bank cards, Oyster cards, or mobile payment apps like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Travelers have called out the convenience of tapping these payment methods directly on the card readers at stations.

Some travelers said that using contactless payment methods, including devices linked to bank accounts, offers the benefit of daily capping, where a maximum charge is applied regardless of further travel within the same day. This ensures cost efficiency for users traveling multiple times in a day.

For many users, it's beneficial to note that children under certain ages can travel for free on public transport in London, which can be a significant saving for families traveling together.