65 Free Things to do in London (2024)

These free things to do in London cover everything you need to visit the famous city on a budget; from landmarks to museums, we share them all!

There are so many free things to do in London and with the expensive hotels and restaurants around the city, it is worth taking advantage of those free gems. Here are some of our favorite picks that don’t cost a thing!

P.S. If you are heading to London, we have this comprehensive London Travel Guide and our friends share the unusual things to do in London or the 10 Super Awesome London experiences here. 

THINGS TO DO IN LONDON THAT ARE FREE

1. Visit Trafalgar Square

Our first free things to do in London, has to be visiting Trafalgar Square. Take a selfie with Nelson’s Column, the iconic stone lions, and the Fourth Plinth along with some pretty fountains – perfect for those London photography shots. Trafalgar Square should be on your free London bucket list!

Getting to Trafalgar Square: Catch the tube to Charing Cross (using the Bakerloo or Northern lines) and take the Trafalgar Square exit to find yourself on the square itself. 

2. Watch street entertainers at Covent Garden

Full of street performers and quirky shops, Covent Garden is a great place to spend some time having a wander around and some window browsing. It is also home to plenty of restaurants and food stalls, the Royal Opera House, and the Transport of London Museum which offers free tickets for children.

Covent Garden is a district in London between St. Martin’s Lane and Drury Lane. It is located in the West End so makes for the perfect place for dinner before a West End Show. 

If you prefer some indoor entertainment you can catch a comedy show at Big Belly Comedy Club. They have a free drink included with the tickets Monday – Thursday! 

Explore the independent stores, browse the craft markets, and enjoy a pint at one of the quirky pubs in the area in on of our favorite free things to do in London.

EXPLORE THE FREE MUSEUMS

The great museums of London are all free; and many make it to this list of the best free things to do in London.

Explore dinosaurs in the Natural History Museum, learn about British and world history at the British Museum and wander around the beautiful exhibitions at the Victoria and Albert Museum. The Science Museum is also a great choice for those with children.

Some may prefer to explore the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich or the Imperial War Museum to admire the 400 exhibits of World War artifacts. Art lovers head to Tate Modern – an incredible building full of art displays and sculptures from around the world. On a 5-day trip in London, we recommend trying to visit at least one of these each day!

3) Natural History Museum

Located on Crowell Road, the gorgeous Hintze Hall houses a massive T.Rex dinosaur fossil along with 36 galleries sharing the history of living things through exhibitions and artifacts.

This museum is open from 10 am to 5.30 pm and you either arrive early or visit after 3 pm to avoid the crowds and school trips. 

We love this free things to do in London, as it is great for the whole family! See the dinosaurs at London’s Natural History Museum; another popular free things to do in London with kids. See the extensive collection of geology and mineral materials in the Earth Hall as well as the impressive collection of mammals. 

4) Victoria and Albert Museum

This is arguably the most unique museum in London, with a changing exhibition standing alongside a treasure trove of decorated art and design history spanning thousands of years.

Known for celebrating art and design, the V&A museum is another one of the free museums in London. Learn about how fashion has transformed through British history and see the impressive Trajan’s Column.

This free things to do in London is also located on Crowell Road and is open from 10 a.m. to 5.45 p.m. but stays open until 10 p.m. on Fridays.

5) Museum of London

The Museum of London shares the history of the capital city through galleries, exhibitions, and displays.

The museum can be reached by stairs, escalators, or lift from Aldersgate Street, London Wall, or St Martin’s-le-Grand; just a 5-minute walk from Barbican or St Paul’s underground stop or a short walk from Liverpool Street train station. The museum is open from 10 am to 6 pm. 

6) Imperial War Museum

Also located in Greenwich is the Imperial War Museum; which showcases exhibits from World War. Visit the Churchill War Rooms; a complex underground, where Churchill led the British government during WW2. Make sure to visit the moving Holocaust Exhibition here too.

This free things to do in London is located on Lambeth Road (catch the train or underground to Elephant and Castle or Lambeth North) and is open from 10 am to 6 pm.

7) The British Museum

Another one of the best free things to do in London and one of our favorite, has to be The British Museum. This is the world’s oldest national public museum, displaying art, literature, and artifacts showcasing the story of human history.

The museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm and is located on Great Russell Street, a short walk from Tottenham Court Road, Holborn, Russell Square, and Goodge Street underground stations. 

Often referred to as one of the best museums in the world, the British Museum is home to fascinating ancient artifacts from around the world. See the Rosetta Stone, appreciate the Tree of Life and admire the Parthenon Sculptures. 

8) National Gallery

A world-class art museum with some of the best paintings in the world on display from a range of famous painters.

Home to masterpieces from Van Gogh and Leonardo da Vinci, the National Gallery is a must for all art enthusiasts. The Feast of the Gods and Woman with a Sunflower are some beautiful art pieces in the National Gallery, but also check out the Modern and Contemporary art in the East Building.

Located in Trafalgar Square and is open from 10 am to 6 pm. 

9) Science Museum

With interactive exhibits and historic artifacts, the Science Museum is one of the best free things to do in London with children. Check out the IMAX presentations and Science shows but also learn about the power of steam from a huge red Mill Engine from 1903. 

This free things to do in London can be found on Exhibition Road and is open from 10 am to 6 pm. 

10) Tate Britain

Another overlooked art museum is the Tate Britain. This showcases a variety of Art in a gorgeous building, which is worth seeing and exploring in itself. 

Located at Millbank, Tate Britain is open from 10 am to 6 pm, offering sculptors from Henry Moore and diverse paintings and is a must free things to do in London for art lovers.

11) National Portrait Gallery

Open from 10 am to 6 pm but staying open until 9 pm on Thursdays and Fridays, this gallery is a great free things to do in London at night. The museum displays portraits of important figures in history with over 11,000 original works.

The gallery is in St. Martin’s Place so get the underground to Charing Cross or Leicester Square for a short walk. 

12) Wallace Collection

Full of displays sharing science, medicine, life and art, this is a quirky free museum in London. This is a collection of personal items whih belonged to Henry Wellcome; a privileged man in the Victorian era. 

Located in Hertford House and open from 10 am – 5 pm, this museum offers a collection of fine and decorated art pieces dating back to the 18th century.

13) Saatchi Gallery

This lesser-town art gallery shares contemporary works from international artists. The gallery is at the Duke of York’s headquarters near Sloane Square underground station and is open from 10 am – 6 pm.

14) Royal Academy of Arts

Though not all exhibits are free here, the Royal Academy of Arts does offer some free displays and exhibits for you to visit. You can also attend lectures and workshops here throughout the year. 

15) Design Museum

Located on Kensington High Street, the Design Museum is a free and fascinating option but also often overlooked. Some exhibits may require payment and advance purchase, but all permanent collections are free to visit and do not require a ticket.

16) Guildhall Art Gallery and Roman Amphitheatre

Housing the art collection of the City of London, Guildhall is another free museum in London. Appreciate its stone building with a semi-gothic style and see the incredible art collection found here.

17) Whitechapel Gallery

Offering contemporary art from emerging and renowned artists, Whitechapel Gallery is another one of the more unique free. things to do in London

18) Queen’s House

Home to a collection of portraits and Royal objects, The Queens’s House is England’s first classical building.  Make sure to visit Tulip Staircase; a self-supporting spiral staircase that makes for perfect pictures. 

19) National Maritime Museum

Another free museum in London is the Maritime Museum in Greenwich. However, you may need to book tickets online in advance to guarantee entrance. This is the largest museum of its kind, sharing Britain’s vast and important maritime history. 

20) Sir John Soane’s Museum

The former home to the architect of the Bank of England, the Soane’s Museum is another free museum in London. This historic house is home to a vast collection of paintings, drawings, and antiquities. 

21) Horniman Museum and Gardens

One of the more quirky, unique things to do in London, is the Horniman Museum in Forest Hill. From natural history to anthropology, there is a vast collection of interesting items here.

22) London Mithraeum

Learn about the Roman Temple of Mithrus and its discovery in 1954, at this fascinating history museum. 

23) National Army Museum

Learn about Britain’s army and the history of the armed forces as this understated London museum. 

24) Serpentine Galleries

Located in Hyde Park, these galleries display international contemporary art. Visit in the supper to see the gardens set up, showcasing the talent of a specific artist or architect. 

25) Royal Air Force Museum

Located on the former Hendon Aerodrome in North London, this museum showcases the history of aviation and the Royal Air Force. 

26) Visit the Harry Potter film locations

As a fan of Harry Potter, this is high on my list. You can visit various film locations around London including platform 9 ¾ at Kings Cross Station, Leadenhall Market; the film location for Diagon Alley, and Australia House – where the interior shots of Gringotts were filmed.

Have plenty of time? Take the free Harry Potter Tour of London by Strawberry Tours. This is an informative journey that takes you around locations such as Picadilly Circus and Trafalgar Avenue whilst the tour guide explains the filmmaking techniques and location areas from the movies. 

27) Tower Bridge

Walking along the Thames River will give you the best view of Tower Bridge, but it is also interesting to walk across and see the decorative patterns along it. For an additional fee,  you can go to the top of Tower Bridge, and learn about how the bridge is drawn. 

The landmarks around the city make for the perfect Instagram spots in London so make sure you take full advantage of the free landmarks, sites, and museums!

28) Recreate the Abbey Road Beatles Photo

Fans of The Beatles may wish to head to Abbey Road and take a photo of themselves crossing the iconic Beatles Album walking on a Zebra crossing.

Getting to Abbey Road: The nearest station to Abbey Road is St John’s Wood tube station (northern line). Exit the station and head along Grove End Road and then turn right around 500 m to find yourself on Abbey Road. The recording studios and crossing are just after the junction. 

29) Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

A must whilst in London, head to the famous Buckingham Palace and watch the daily changing of the guard.

This is a traditional ceremony of the guards, in their elaborate attire with feathered long hats and bright red jackets, changing over shifts. The ceremony lasts for 45 minutes and the stern, unison movement of the guards is fantastic to watch. 

After being suspended through 2020, the Changing of the Guard will return at 11 am every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. 

30) Visit Piccadilly Cirus

Piccadilly Circus is a road junction in the West End of London, where Regent Street meets Piccadilly but expect lots of traffic. Visit here by foot rather than drive. 

As one of London’s busiest Squares, it is easy to rush straight through Piccadilly Circus. Take some time to admire the neon signs and the Statue of Eros. Grab a coffee in one of the many cafes nearby and watch the world pass by through the window.

31) Take a stroll around a Flower Market

For those who love some color in their life, head to one of London’s many flower markets. Columbia Road Flower Market in Shoreditch can be found between Bethnal Green and Old Street, offering beautiful exotic flowers. This historic and busy rose is also worth wandering around with its independent boutique shops and homes lined with hanging plants and pots. 

Alternatively, head to the New Covent Flower Market; ideal for florists or flower arrangers. It is the place to go for wholesalers and there its a variety of flowers to choose from in this market. 

You can find flowers at Borough Market too or the Flower Warehouse is a lesser-known warehouse in Bethnal Green. 

Visit the many parks in London

Although busy and cramped, there are some beautiful parks to be found in London. A favorite of mine is visiting Kensington Gardens which holds the popular Peter Pan statue or Richmond Park which is home to free-roaming deer. Here are some of the best parks and free things to do in London:

32) Hyde Park

As one of the most famous parks in London, Hyde Park is a popular place to explore and one of the most touristy free things to do in London. Stroll through the Royal Park, listen to those in Speakers’ Corner, and visit The Rose Garden.

33) St. James’s Park

Next to Hyde Park is St. James Park; a peaceful place to enjoy a stroll to Duck Island and continue the walk along the seven-mile Diana Memorial (which runs through 4 Royal Parks).

34) Kensington Gardens

Home to the Albert Memorial and Serpentine Gallery, Kensington Gardens is a historic, beautiful park. See the charming Peter Pan statue before exploring the elegant Italian Gardens. 

35) Regent’s Park

Known for its impressive landscaping, Regency architecture, and thriving wildlife, this is another great choice in London. 

36) Greenwich Park

Home to the Maritime Museum (mentioned above), as well as the Cutty Sark and Royal Observatory, Greenwich Park is a charming park to explore, in between your visits to the nearby attractions. 

37) Hampstead Heath

For a more local, quieter park, this is a great option. Enjoy a stroll or jog and appreciate the beautiful park of woodlands and meadows.

38) Richmond Park

With plenty of cycle lanes, paths, and even horse riding trails, there are plenty of ways you can enjoy Richmond Park. We recommend taking the Tamsin Trail, which circles the park. 

39) Battersea Park

Another popular option for visitors who are staying in the city center is Battersea Park. This is a popular walking and running option for locations, especially as it takes you right along the Thames. 

Browse the many markets in London

40) London’s Borough Market

For fresh, delicious foods from around the world, visit this bustling, popular market in the heart of London.

As with all the markets on this list, the market itself is free to enter but of course, anything you buy is at cost. However, we often find food to be cheaper in the markets than in a sit-down restaurant; ideal for budget travelers who don’t mind picking up food to eat in their hotel.

41) Camden Market

Another one of the more unique things to do in London is Camden Market. Explore the Camden Lock Village, visit the eclectic stores, and see the Amy Winehouse Statue.

42) Portobello Road Market

Known for its antiques, Portobello Market is another popular market in London. You can try the street food here for international treats, but also check out the fashion market, which is in full swing on Saturdays. 

43) Columbia Road Flower Market

For vintage and antique shops, cafes, bakeries, and of course, plenty of flowers; this is one of my favorite free things to do in London. Check out the cut flowers, pot plants, herbs, and cacti but also enjoy people-watching from the cozy cafes here.

44) Brick Lane Market

For a retro vibe, head to Brick Lane Market. There is a Sunday Upmarkted, which is a covered area with over 200 stalls of fashion, art and food whilst the vintage market offers clothing and memorabilia from the 1920s to the 1990s. 

45) Old Spitalfields Market

For food, beer and cocktails, Spitalfields is the place to be. Be At One is a fun cocktail bar and the Old Truman Brewery hosts events too. You can also take art tours of the neighbourhood as well.

46) Greenwich Market

Selling arts, crafts, food and produce, Greenwich Market is another one of the free things to do in London. You can enjoy this more local market within a historic setting. 

47) Southbank Centre Food Market

Known for its street food, this is a great market to visit from Friday to Sunday. Enjoy the free riverside views and try the delicious food found here. 

48) Leather Lane Market

A lesser-known (therefore less touristy) market is the Leather Lane Market. You can enjoy street food like chicken shish and Persian kebab but also pick up plants, handbags and footwear. 

49) Read a book at The British Library

Those who enjoy a bit of history can head to the Library and view the Magna Carta and original Beatles lyrics.

Open from 9.30am to 8pm Monday to Thursday then closing at 6pm on Fridays and 5pm on the weekends, the British Library is one of the unique free things to do in London in the evening. 

The main entrance is on Euston Road, just a very short walk from Kings Cross and St Pancras International and Euston train stations as well as Euston Square underground. However, there is no onsite parking so stick to public transport or catch an Uber. 

50). A red phone box

Although not used as much nowadays, I still can’t resist a photo inside a red phone booth. These are dotted around London whilst a blue Police Phone Box can be found outside Earl’s Court Tube Station – used in the famous BBC series, Doctor Who.

51) Visit Leicester Square

A bustling square that always reminds me of a British Times Square. Here you can explore the expansive M&M store and various souvenir stores. It also hosts many movie premieres and an array of eateries.

52) Catch a performance at The Scoop

Enjoy free music and performances at The Scoop; the outdoor amphitheater near city hall.

This is a large outdoor amphitheater, fitting up to 1000 people for their entertainment shows. Arrive early as seating is limited, especially for the film showings. 

53) Get a great view of London at the Sky Garden

Book your free tickets for The Sky Garden in advance from the official website. The Sky garden offers sweeping views of London along with some bustling greenery high up in the sky.

The garden is located from floors 34 to 37 of the Walkie Talkie building and gives you unobstructed views across London. With clear skies, you can expect to see the London Eye, the Share, St Paul’s, Tower Bridge, and Canary Wharf. 

Get some shots from the outdoor observatory deck, take in a glass of wine from the bar or stroll around the leveled greenery that gives this place its name Sky Garden.

54) Visit Somerset House

Famous for its courtyard and expansive Georgian architecture, Somerset House is a great way to spend a hot summer day in London. Enjoy the dancing courtyard fountains during the summer which then turn into an ice rink during the winter.

55) Visit Westminster Abbey

Everyone is welcome to attend the services for free so visit the Abbey on a Sunday.

Head to the church for an Evensong service of beautiful choir singing – this is held on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 5pm and at 3pm on both weekend days.

Expect to see stunning interiors in this historic church which has been the coronation church since 1066 and is the final resting place of 17 monarchs.

56) Window shop at Oxford Street

Browse the stores of famous Oxford Street; which is particularly magical during the winter months when the Christmas lights make the street sparkle.

57) Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament

A favorite London landmark, Big Ben and its surrounding areas is a top choice for tourists in London. Across the river from Big Ben is the famous London Eye and the surrounding streets offer some great London pubs where you may even bump into an MP on their lunch break.

58) Visit Southbank Centre

One of the more overlooked free things to do in London is the Southbank Centre. This is an area that is free to visit, with various free attractions and spots to check out. 

Firstly, visit the BFI Southbank Mediatheque, a free digital viewing space with over 95,000 titles from the BFI National Archive. Next, head to the free Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Gardens, a peaceful garden and luscious lawn. 

Free Things to do in London at night

59) Landmarks at night

Tour the city’s famous landmarks to capture some great shots at night. Tower Bridge, Houses of Parliament, Piccadilly Circus, and Harrods are some great places that light up at night. 

60) Hampstead Observatory

From Hampstead Heath, you can enjoy great views of the London skyline. Head here on a Friday or Saturday evening when the Observatory opens its telescopes for public use from 8 – 10pm. 

61) Angel Comedy Club

Open 7 nights a week, the Angel Comedy Club is a free comedy venue at the Camden Head in Islington. However, you will be expected to buy a drink during your visit. 

62) Free Harry Potter Tour

On Mondays, there’s a free tour of Harry Potter London film locations including St. Paul’s, Horseguards Avenue used as the Ministry of Magic entrance and Godwin’s Court; used for Knockturn Alley. 

63) Hootannay Brixton

This bar is home to some great reggae, folk and ska gigs that run throughout the year for free. 

64) Hamley’s Toy Store

The store stays open until 9pm and is a great place to visit in London with children, even in the evening. 

65) Winter Wonderland

If you are visiting London at Christmas time, head to Hyde Park in the evenings for a free, festive event. Take in the many lights and decorations, browse the shops.

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