Looking for free things to do in London? Check out our list of 25 of the best options so that you can start planning your next trip to the capital!
Millions of tourists visit London every year, and for good reason. Between the amazing accommodations like the Great St. Helen Hotel, the romantic escapes, mouthwatering food, Christmas Markets, and landmarks, this city has so much to offer… and a lot of them are free! But, what are the best free things to do in London?
From parks and royal landmarks, there are so many incredible locations that you should check out in London. There will definitely be something for everyone, too, so whether you want to find all the best Instagrammable spots or you’re just there for the food, you will have a blast.
London offers plenty of free attractions, from world-class museums to beautiful parks, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious travellers.
Top 10 free things to do in London:
- Visit Westminster Cathedral
- Check out Camden Lock Market
- Marvel at the Natural History Museum
- Stop by the British Museum
- Peruse the Tate Modern
- See Dinosaurs at Crystal Palace Park
- Watch the Changing of the Guard
- Unwind at the Barbican Conservatory
- Be sky-high at the Garden at 120
- Enjoy the view from Primrose Hill
Iconic Landmarks That Won’t Cost a Penny
While you can see the London Eye, Tower of London, or Westminster Abbey for a fee, London is also full of iconic landmarks that don’t cost a penny that you should take the time to visit. Take these spots into account when you’re planning your trip, and you will save money while also enjoying magical moments across the city.
Westminster Cathedral
Built over eight years from 1895 to 1903, Westminster Cathedral is a ‘new’ but beautiful landmark that boasts of beautiful architecture and colours, and an absolutely stunning photo op, both inside and out.
London Wall
Built in AD 200, the London Wall is one of the lesser known historical locations that you might want to check out. Once forming part of Roman Londinium’s eastern defences, this spot will take you back a good few hundred years – even if just for a moment.Â
Borough Market
This historic market located in Central London is full of quality food and an atmosphere that you don’t want to miss. Dating back to at least the 12th century, this is a great spot for foodies to spend an afternoon.
Trafalgar Square
Probably one of the most well-known squares in the world, Trafalgar Square was redesigned from the Royal Mews and officially opened in 1844. However, the location has been a significant historical landmark since the 1200s, so history buffs will love this spot, too.Â
Camden Lock Market
Opening only in 1974, Camden Lock Market is new compared to other locations, but it’s still significant in London and is widely loved across the city. This market forms a three-way lock, where Kentish Town Lock, Hawley Lock, and Hampstead Lock come together on the Regent’s Canal.
Free Museums and Galleries in London
Full of beauty and history, London is also home to a surprising number of free museums and galleries that will blow you away. From the classic National History Museum to Queer Britain and the Tate Modern, there is something for everyone to enjoy around the UK’s capital – and you don’t have to spend a penny to get inside.
The Natural History Museum
Be greeted by a floating whale, and explore everything that this stunning medium has to offer. With five main collections to see, this museum has enough to keep you busy for the entire day.
The British Museum
Dedicated to human history, The British Museum will give you insight into all your burning questions and leave you with all your old questions answered, and new questions to explore.
Sir John Soane’s Museum
As the smallest of all the National Museums, Sir John Soane’s Museum is full of history, art, and artefacts that will transport you to another world.
Queer Britain
Here, you can learn about LGBTQIA+ history and culture in the UK where you can explore where you came from, who you are, and who you want to be.
The National Gallery
Located in Trafalgar Square, The National Gallery is an art museum that every art lover should take the time to explore in London.
Tate Britain
Known as the National Gallery of British Art before its name was changed, Tate Britain is an art gallery full of thought-provoking and stunning art pieces for any art enthusiast.
Beautiful Parks and Gardens to Explore
While there are so many stunning parks in London – including the famous Hyde Park – don’t feel like you only need to stick to one or two. If you’re a real park lover, you could plan a tour of the city just for the parks alone, and you will never get bored, no matter the time of year (but summer is the real winner).Â
Richmond Park
Richmond Park offers stunning landscapes, free-roaming deer, and serene woodlands for you to escape the busy city life. And, with beautiful views and cycling paths, this place is perfect for a summer picnic.
Greenwich Park
Spanning 74 hectares, Greenwich Park boasts of panoramic views of the city, with highlights including the Royal Observatory, peaceful gardens, and the numerous deer that call the park their home.
Bushy Park
Bushy Park is our top-rated must-see park in London. As the second-largest of London’s eight Royal Parks, this park is home to beautiful deer, wide spaces, tranquil waterways, and so much more. Make sure to bring your camera, because you could capture magic.
Battersea Park
Battersea Park features riverside views, serene gardens, and even a boating lake to enjoy your afternoon in. Here, there are playgrounds and wildlife, and even a beautiful pagoda where you can sit back, relax, and take it all in.
Unique Free Experiences and Hidden Gems
Because of how many unique experiences London has to offer, you’ll have to forgive our rather short list of choices. However, these experiences are the unmissable ones, and ones that we would 100% recommend looking into if possible.Â
Crystal Palace Park
For some historic charm mixed with something a little bit strange, head to Crystal Palace Park. Here, you can see the iconic dinosaur sculptures, enjoy the lush greenery, and even explore a maze. Perfect for a day out, no matter how old you are.
Watch the Changing of the GuardÂ
Enjoy the Changing of the Guard and watch the ceremony where a group of soldiers who protect Buckingham Palace get replaced with a new group.Â
Leake Street Arches Art
Leake Street Arches showcases vibrant street art, evolving graffiti, and creative expression, all within a dynamic underground atmosphere beneath Waterloo Station.
Chinese New Year in Chinatown
Celebrate the Chinese New Year like no other in Chinatown! Time your trip, and you could have a one-in-a-lifetime experience.
Barbican Conservatory
Barbican Conservatory offers a tropical oasis with exotic plants to offer a unique escape from the busy city. Book free tickets online in advance to secure your spot!
Walking Tours and Scenic Views
London is full of stunning parks and scenic spots, and they are all a photographer’s dream, but if it’s views you want, you can’t forget about some of the classics like the beautiful Sky Garden! If you want to get a good look at London, consider adding some of these locations to your list of must-visit spots around the city.
Take a Trip to the Sky Garden
Sit back and relax at Sky Garden, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city from the 43rd floor – it’s the perfect spot for fireworks and so much more.
Walk up Parliament Hill
Get a view of the city from Parliament Hill, and enjoy the walk while you’re at it!
The Garden at 120
Sitting at the top of Fen Court Building, this spot is a stunning must-see for any visitor who wants to enjoy good views.
Primrose Hill
Enjoy open spaces, beautiful views, and the surrounding area where natural beauty shines bright.
Tips for Making the Most of Free Attractions
With so many free things to do in London, it can be difficult to pick and choose. However, to make the most of your trip, we recommend creating and sticking to a travel itinerary as much as you can and be careful with your packing!
For free attractions, it makes sense to expect other people to be there, too. This means that you should expect crowds wherever you go, because everyone probably has the same idea as you! Be patient and courteous, and remember that everyone is there to have a good time – just like you.
Stay Close to London’s Top Free Attractions with Crown Group of Hotels
There are so many free things to do in London, and they are all worth the effort it might take to get there. Ready to explore London’s best free attractions? Book your stay with Crown Group of Hotels and enjoy budget-friendly travel without compromising comfort or location!
For more information, why not contact us? Or, if you want to learn more about London travel, how about checking out these useful blogs on choosing the perfect hotel room, if you should use black cabs or an Uber in London, or some things you will wish you knew before the visit.