Free activities and things to do in London.
London is one of the world's most expensive cities. However, there are some free and/ow low-cost ways to experience this wonderful city. After all, London is visited by about 4 million Americans per year, making it one of the most popular overseas destinations. Find a list of things to do or see in London that are 100% free.
Unless you're traveling to England's capital city from somewhere similarly pricey, you might find the cost of everything from accommodation to food and drink eye-watering here. However, budget-conscious travelers can find plenty of free things to enjoy while visiting this exciting city. Here are several of the best family fun things to do for free in London or ways to experience the city on your own.
1. Visit a museum or gallery
London is one of the best destinations for visiting museums. The great news for travelers on a budget is that many of the most popular museums in London open to the public for free.
From the thousands of ancient artifacts on display at the British Museum to the world-class contemporary art collection of the Tate Modern, there is truly something for everyone among London's huge variety of free museums. The government subsidizes the operation of these museums so that both the public, including low-income families in London, as well as tourists can see the cultural sights.
You can explore the city's rich history at the Museum of London, learn more about the River Thames that runs through it at the Museum of London Docklands, educate yourself on Britain's seafaring heritage at the National Maritime Museum, or immerse yourself in the fascinating science-focused exhibits of the Faraday Museum.
With so many museums spread across England's sprawling capital city, you could spend months here without getting to visit them all. If you want to pack as many top-quality museums into a short visit as possible, head to Exhibition Road in South Kensington for the stunning fossils and earthquake simulator of the Natural History Museum, iconic objects from the first steam locomotive to an Apollo 10 command module at the Science Museum, and magnificent art and design collection of the Victoria & Albert Museum.
2. Stroll around a park
London may be known colloquially as the Big Smoke, but this urban metropolis offers an abundance of relaxing green space. Hyde Park is the most famous of London's urban parks. Along with tree-lined lawns, this huge park is famed for the public forum of Speaker's Corner. Hyde Park is one of several Royal Parks that form a chain running the heart of the city. Nearby Green Park offers beautiful water features, swans, and views of both Buckingham Palace and the London Eye. Regent's Park features gorgeous gardens and the captivating viewpoint of Primrose Hill. Greenwich Park is another popular combining historic gardens with sweeping views of the London skyline.
3. Enjoy street entertainers at Covent Garden
Within a stone's throw of Trafalgar Square and the West End's best theaters, Covent Garden is one of the most visited destinations in London. The exquisite Piazza here offers plenty of shopping and dining options plus an eclectic array of street performers. From talented singers to mesmerizing magicians, there is always something to capture your attention here.
4. Take in the riverfront views along the South Bank
Running along the south side of the River Thames in the heart of London, the South Bank is one of the best places in London to while away a sunny afternoon. Like Covent Garden, the area offers a wealth of street performers. The South Bank is also home to the London Eye plus cultural attractions such as the National Theatre and the British Film Institute. This riverfront hotspot provides unbeatable views of other landmarks including Big Ben and Saint Paul's Cathedral. Continue east along the riverfront from the South Bank to take in Shakespeare's Globe Theatre and Tower Bridge.
5. Watch the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace
One of the most instantly recognizable symbols of London is the distinctive uniform worn by the soldiers guarding the official royal residence of Buckingham Palace. Decked out in red coats and bearskin hats, these royal protectors are famously immobile until the time comes for the Changing of the Guards. This spectacular ceremony takes over an hour to complete. Times vary throughout the year, so make sure you check the official website of the Royal Household Division before your visit.
6. Go to a free street fair or festival in London
London has year round festivals, street fairs or parties, or small, local events. Most of them are outside, either street festivals in a certain neighborhood or in a park. There is the Notting Hill Caravan that takes place in August or various Christmas festivals in December. During the warmer, often less rainy London summer months, there are many local street fairs to visit where you can be immersed in the local culture or vibe of a neighborhood. They include the Black owned Hackney market to the East Village Food Market and many more. Try www.independent.co.uk/topic/festivals for the latest free festivals.
7. Stay rent free in London lodging
London is often ranked as one of the 10 most expensive cities in the world. The cost of a “decent” hotel room can range anywhere from $150 to $300 per night. But there are ways to either (1) live rent free in London or (2) get paid while living where. In fact, many of these free tips can be used traveling in London or anywhere for that matter. Learn more on how to make money while traveling.
8. Explore the literature treasure trove of the British Museum
The British Library is one of the largest libraries in the world. A copy of every book published in the UK must be deposited here. As well as somewhere in the region of 14 million books, the British Library's enormous collection includes everything from ancient manuscripts to handwritten Beatles lyrics. This sprawling library is also equipped with plenty of study rooms where you can escape the bustle of the city outside.
9. Discover cool street art
London's art galleries house some of the most impressive art collections in the world, but there is also an endless array of outdoor art dotting the city. The punk and indie rock oasis of Camden is festooned with colorful street art, while seemingly every building in hip Shoreditch is decorated with unique works of graffiti.
Head to Shoreditch's Brick Lane and you're almost certain to see some of the city's most talented graffiti artists in action. Croydon is another street art hotspot with an endless array of designs to discover. There is also a huge mural paying tribute to David Bowie in his birthplace of Brixton.
10. See free concerts and performances
London boasts some of the best cultural life in the world. From West End musicals and opera to gigs and concerts from artists big and small, there is sure to be something you want to experience during your time in London. While ticket prices can often be steep, there are also a surprising number of free options.
These include regular free performances at major cultural venues such as the Southbank Centre and Royal Opera House, intimate classical music concerts at St Martin-in-the-Fields Church, and free gigs from up-and-coming acts at venues throughout the city.
London is full of fun free things to do
Whether you're heading to London for a quick weekend break or a long-term stay, you'll never run out of free things to do here. England's capital city can be incredibly expensive but these free options should help you have a fabulous time in London without breaking the bank.
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