Here's a suggestion for you: go to the link I've posted below, and click on the "Oyster Card" icon. You can order this card before you go to London and use it on the buses and Underground. You order a pre-set amount, and then, as needed, you can "top up" the amount when it gets low. It will save you a lot of time getting around, since you won't have to queue for undergound tickets.
As for the areas you mentioned, Canary Wharf is a bit out of the way; South Kensington and Chelsea are a bit closer to Central London. My preference would be South Kensington -- you'll be close to the park, the V&A plus the Natural History museum, and the Royal Albert Hall.
Also, be sure to check out some of the London Walks. Information can be found here: www.walks.com They have walks for every interest. The kids might find the Jack the Ripper tour interesting -- it's a bit gruesome in some of the descriptions, but it was very informative.
London Travel Card Information
Updated On: 2/21/07 at 02:16 AM