London — London has loads for children to do. But instead of simply visiting the tried-and-true sights such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London and Trafalgar Square, why not treat your kids to some hot spots popular with children who actually live in London?

Instead of the disappointing London Aquarium, try checking out Hampton Court Palace, where Tudor actors bring Henry VIII's court to life. You should not succumb to the familiar temptations of McDonald's. Instead, try eating at the ubiquitous Wagamama, an Asian chain of cheap eats that includes noodle dishes loved by kids.

Associated Press/2000 photo (ENLARGE)

The London Eye and Big Ben are two of the best-known sights in England's capital, but visitors should also seek out inexpensive activities that appeal to kids and parents alike.

And the most talked about show among Londoners? "The Wizard of Oz" opens in previews July 23 at Royal Festival Hall. Go to www.ticketmaster.co.uk for tickets.

Here are five favorite destinations of local children:

1. The best bargain in town: London Walks

This company offers two-hour walking tours that cost only $14 for adults, with children under 15 free. Older children in particular will enjoy the ghost walks, Jack the Ripper walks and tours of London showcasing the "Harry Potter" film locations. Great tip: The "Along the Thames Pub Walk" welcomes children and is good fun for parents eager for a pint. www.walks.com

2. London Bridge Experience

Be transported back to Roman times with a visit to the London Bridge Experience, Britain's newest family attraction that opened in February. A tour of the bridge's 2,000-year history, which takes place in the vaults and excavated tombs of London Bridge itself, is an exhilarating one for young and old alike. (A few bits might be too scary for very young children.) 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. $40, adults; $30, children. www.londonbridgeexperience.com

3. The Courtauld Gallery at Somerset House

Forget the National Gallery, this is the art museum for children. It's very small and easy to navigate and houses one of the finest collections of impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces in the world. Your child is very likely to instantly recognize works by artists such as Monet, Renoir and van Gogh. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. $10, adults; free, children under 18. www.courtauld.ac.uk/gallery

4. Holland Park's adventure playground

In Kensington Gardens, skip the Princess Diana playground, which is always overwhelmingly crowded. Holland Park is one of the best playgrounds for children in the world. Rather than just swings and slides, this huge playground boasts seesaws, colorful spinners, rocking tables and rope structures to climb and swing on.

5. Toy area at Harrods

Sure, Toys "R" Us in New York's Times Square is gargantuan. But there's still nothing like the toy department at Harrods, where workers encourage kids to actually play with the displays. Also visit Harrods Chocolate Bar on the second floor for the ultimate chocoholic fantasy. There are chocolate fondues, chocolate soufflés, chocolate shakes and every other chocolate dessert imaginable.

To check out more things to do with children in London, go to www.kidslovelondon.com, part of the newly revamped official Visit London site.