Family Trip to London for the NFL Game

We recently traveled to London for an unforgettable experience—an NFL football game where the Baltimore Ravens were playing! While the game itself was a huge draw for fans, we also made the most of our time exploring London with our son. Here’s a look at how we got there, where we stayed, and what we did during our trip.

Getting There

We booked a nonstop flight from Dulles Airport (IAD) to London Heathrow Airport on British Airways. The plane was equipped with bassinets for small children, which was a huge help for us traveling with a little one.

Upon arrival, we arranged private transportation with Alpha Airport Cars. The driver was waiting inside the airport holding a sign with our last name, which made our arrival stress-free and seamless.

Where We Stayed

Our home base in London was the Crowne Plaza London Battersea. This boutique-style hotel had a cozy atmosphere, complete with:

• Breakfast included (buffet + on-site restaurant)

• Spa on-site

• Suite with separate living room, dining space, and balcony overlooking the river

While the room itself was spacious and comfortable, there were a few drawbacks:

• The elevators were small and stuffy

• Hallways were overly warm

• The bathroom water temperature got extremely hot, requiring caution

This property isn’t the most kid-friendly (no pool or family amenities), so I’d recommend it more for couples or travelers looking to relax.

Getting Around

Most locals use the “tube,” but we chose other options. Since attractions weren’t within walking distance from our hotel, we got around using:

• Uber

• The Big Bus Tour, was perfect for sightseeing and tourists!

The Big Bus made it so easy to see all the highlights of London without the stress of navigating public transportation.

Family-Friendly Fun

One of our favorite stops was the Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, just a 10-minute drive from the hotel. Our son loved exploring the zoo, and it was a great way to spend the day while the rest of our group went to the football game.

Other highlights included visiting iconic London attractions:

• Big Ben

• The London Eye

• The exterior of Buckingham Palace

Getting around with our little one was simple thanks to the Doona Car Seat & Stroller Combo. If you travel frequently with kids under 15 months, this is a must-have—it’s compact, all-in-one, and incredibly convenient.

Final Thoughts

This was our first trip to London, and we saw everything we wanted to see—and more! If you’re visiting for sightseeing, I’d recommend staying at a hotel closer to the main attractions. If your focus is relaxation, the Crowne Plaza Battersea offers a calm riverside setting.

One of the most memorable moments of the trip was our son being featured on Fox Baltimore News for proudly wearing his Ravens gear in London. It was truly an experience we’ll never forget!

Overall, London was an amazing destination for both family adventures and sports fans. We can’t wait to go back!