Ever wondered if the saying is true—that the best things in life are free? In a city as vibrant and (let’s be honest) sometimes pricey as London, the answer might surprise you. Peel back the layers of iconic landmarks and bustling streets, and you’ll discover a treasure trove of experiences that won’t cost you a single pound. Indeed, London is brimming with free thrills from world-class museums to sprawling Royal Parks and glitzy rooftop observatories, and some gems that locals love as well.
Forget about the price tag; get ready to uncover the delightful (and entirely gratis!) side of the UK’s captivating capital, promising a journey beyond the typical tourist trail and into the authentic heart of London’s hidden charms.
Soak up the atmosphere of London’s markets
Want to feel the true pulse of London? Head to its markets. These aren’t your average shopping trips; they’re adventures in discovery, from exotic spices to freshly baked bread and blooming flowers. You’ll see groups of friends sharing a pint, couples on dates nibbling on street food, and families browsing the colourful stalls, all contributing to a wonderfully informal and buzzing vibe that spills beyond the market boundaries. It’s about more than just transactions; it’s about shared experiences and a genuine taste of London life.
Here are the markets mentioned:
- Borough Market
- Columbia Road Flower Market
- Broadway Market
- Maltby Street Market
Explore the remnants of the London Wall
Did you know London actually dates back to Roman times? Step back in time and trace the footsteps of Roman soldiers! This ancient structure once encircled Londinium (London’s latin name—that will come in handy if you’re planning a pub quiz) and sections of it still stand proudly in the modern city. It’s a tangible link to the earliest days of the capital.
Following the marked walking path is a fantastic free activity in itself, revealing layers of history beneath your feet.
Embrace rural life at London’s City Farms
Who knew you could find a slice of the countryside right in the heart of London? Visit one of the city’s wonderful city farms for a free event that’s perfect for visitors of all ages. These vital community hubs offer a chance to see thriving animals and beautiful gardens.
- Vauxhall City Farm
- Hackney City Farm
- Spitalfields City Farm
- Mudchute Park
- Kentish Town City Farm
While entry is usually free, donations are always welcome to support these fantastic communities.
Walk along Regent’s Canal, a must-see in North London
Escape the usual tourist trails and discover a truly enchanting part of London by wandering along the historic Regent’s Canal. This extensive network of canals offers more than just towpaths; it’s a great place for exploration. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll or cycle, and a fantastic free thing to do for visitors seeking a more tranquil experience. You’ll be captivated by the beautiful architecture that lines its banks, from elegantly converted Victorian warehouses to charming canal-side residences, offering a glimpse into London’s industrial past and present.
The canal itself is a constant source of fascination, flanked by colorful houseboats that offer a peek into a different, more relaxed side of London living.
Technically, you could embark on a remarkable full day of walking (roughly 7 miles), starting from the charming area of Maida Vale all the way to the vibrant Hackney. It’s a fantastic way to see different facets of London, and certainly worth a visit, especially if the weather is kind!
- Start in the picturesque and upscale Little Venice
- Walk towards the leafy expanse of Regent’s Park along the stunning residences of the canal
- Reach Camden Locks at the famed Camden Market
- Past the bustling King’s Cross and stop at the only barge library in London – Word on the Water
- Grab a fantastic lunch in The Beauvoir Town’s many stunning gastropubs
- Head towards Broadway Market for trendy coffee shops and artsy boutiques
- And finish at the stunning Victoria Park pagoda. Well done!
Find the hidden gardens
Unearth London’s secret sanctuaries: its hidden gardens. Tucked away in the shadow of skyscrapers or at the end of a quiet street, these verdant escapes offer tranquil respite.
- St Dunstan in the East Church Garden, a ruined church now transformed into a beautiful public space, is a prime example and a worth a visit.
- The Horniman Museum and Gardens in Forest Hill also boasts extensive gardens with panoramic views of the city, accessible free of charge.
- Don’t miss the historic charm of Lincoln’s Inn Fields, one of London’s largest and oldest squares.
- Don’t forget the serene Kyoto Garden in Holland Park, another great place for a peaceful retreat.
Visit soaring cityscapes with free public viewing areas
$40 per person to enjoy the city from above? No, thank you! Prepare for breathtaking views of the city without spending a penny. Many of London’s modern buildings now feature free public viewing areas, often located atop skyscrapers in the City. Be quick: can you find the Tower of London? The London Eye? What about Somerset House? Or the Barbican Conservatory?
These are just a few examples offering incredible perspectives of London and beyond on clear days:
- Garden at 120
- Sky Garden
- Lookout at 8 Bishopsgate
Remember that while entry is free, booking tickets in advance is usually essential for these top free attractions.
Find the Blue Plaques of London
Embark on a free historical scavenger hunt by seeking out London’s blue plaques. These markers adorn buildings across the city, indicating where famous people once lived—think Mahatma Gandhi, Charles Dickens, Sir Winston Churchill, Jimi Hendrix, Sigmund Freud, and Virginia Woolf . It’s a fascinating way to connect with London’s rich past and discover the former homes of notable figures.
Catch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
Experience a quintessential London tradition by watching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. This display of British pageantry typically occurs daily during the summer months (April to July) and on alternate days during the rest of the year. Arrive at least 45 minutes early (ideally an hour) to secure a good viewing spot along The Mall or near the palace gates.
Check the schedule beforehand to ensure you catch this free event.
Go to London’s top free museums and galleries
Rainy day in London? Perfect! Dive into its world-renowned museums and galleries, many offering free access to their captivating collections. From art and science to maritime history, natural wonders, and the impact of warfare, there’s a fascinating subject waiting to be explored, whatever your interest. Especially if it’s your first time in the city!
- British Library
- Natural History Museum (and it’s famed earthquake simulator)
- British Museum (home of the Magna Carta and the Rosetta Stone—yes, you can see them for free!)
- Sir John Soane’s Museum
- Grant Museum of Zoology
- National Maritime Museum
- Greenwich’s Queen’s House
- The Wellcome Collection
- National Gallery (where you’ll find Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, to start) and National Portrait Gallery
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Tate Modern
- Imperial War Museum London
- Serpentine Galleries in Hyde Park
Looking for a truly meaningful souvenir? Head to the museum gift shop. Not only will you find unique, curated items related to the collections, but your purchase directly supports the museum, helping to keep its doors open and entry free for everyone.
Walk under the Thames in the Greenwich Foot Tunnel
Prepare for a slightly surreal and definitely unique free thing to do in the Greenwich area—walking under the River Thames! The Greenwich Foot Tunnel is a pedestrian passageway that connects the historic heart of Greenwich with Island Gardens on the other side. Accessed via a rather charming domed entrance (or a lift for those who prefer), this 1,200-foot tunnel lined with distinctive white tiles offers a wonderfully quirky experience.
But Greenwich offers so much more than just its underwater tunnel! This historic area is brimming with attractions and offers something for everyone. After your subterranean adventure, be sure to explore one of London’s eight Royal Parks, Greenwich Park, which boasts stunning panoramic views of the city skyline, as well as the stunning Greenwich village and its many cute shops.
See England’s history on foot with the best free walking tours
Delve deeper into London’s fascinating past by joining one of the many free themed walking tours. Explore literary footsteps in the City of London, uncover the history of Riverside London with the City of London Guides, or admire the beautiful architecture of Wren’s City Churches. These free events offer a fantastic way for visitors to learn about specific aspects of London’s history and culture in different areas.
- Literary London: Discover locations associated with famous authors like Shakespeare, Dickens, and Virginia Woolf. Look for tours that highlight literary connections in areas like Bloomsbury or the City.
- Royal London: Focus on Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the history of the monarchy. Many free “Essential London” tours cover these landmarks extensively.
- Jack the Ripper: Delve into the chilling tales of Victorian London’s most infamous serial killer and other dark historical events in the East End. Several free tours are dedicated to this theme.
- Film locations tour: While specific free tours dedicated solely to film locations might be rare, some general tours might point out famous filming spots of various movies and series in London as part of the broader sightseeing.
- Ghostly London: Explore haunted pubs, eerie alleyways, and hear spooky tales of London’s spectral past.
- Street art of Shoreditch: Explore the vibrant and ever-changing murals, graffiti, and urban art scene in East London.
Remember that “free” tours usually operate on a tips-based system, so be prepared to tip your guide if you enjoy the tour.
