London is a spectacular city full of things to see and do, but it can be expensive to visit. Accommodations may cost a pretty penny and gourmet meals add up quickly. There are many ways to have a more affordable trip, but one of the best strategies involves coming prepared. Thankfully there are plenty of great options available, as below we've highlighted the 12 best free things to do in London.
1. Natural History Museum
- Address: Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD,
- Time Needed: 3-4 Hours
When you're on a budget, stick with museums as they serve as things to do in London that are fun, educational and typically free of charge. The Natural History Museum is especially impressive, boasting an awe-inspiring dinosaur exhibit along with an incredible blue whale skeleton, alongside historically significant specimens from Charles Darwin.
2. The National Gallery
- Address: Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN
- Time Needed: 3-4 Hours
Featuring one of the world's most impressive art collections, The National Gallery encourages you to get up close and personal with some of the most iconic works of all time. Be prepared to witness famed pieces from the likes of Van Gogh, Picasso and Monet. This vast museum is a joy to explore, especially when your visit is complemented by live music.
Although The National Gallery is free to visit, booking in advance is strongly recommended. If you have enough room in your budget, consider booking a guided tour, which will introduce you to the stories behind the artists.
3. Tate Modern
- Address: Bankside, London SE1 9TG
- Time Needed: 3-4 Hours
Home to the UK's national collection of contemporary art, Tate Modern has many innovative works on display, including paintings and sculptures from several top names. The gallery is free of charge and does not require booking to enter, although advance booking is recommended for some of the more in-demand exhibitions. The museum actively encourages slow and methodical exploration, so that you can truly appreciate each work of art.
4. London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE
- Address: 12 Walbrook, London EC4N 8AA
- Time Needed: 1 Hour
Steeped in history, the London Mithraeum brings the past to life with the Temple of Mithras — an immersive experience centered around ruins discovered by a famed archaeologist during the 1950s.
This is where the cult of Mithras once met and, with help from sound and lighting effects, you will feel as if you've been transported back in time. From there, you can continue to revel in the myth of Mithras as you gaze at a fascinating art exhibition.
5. Vauxhall City Farm
- Address: 165 Tyers St, London SE11 5HS
- Time Needed: 1 Hour
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city for an hour as you discover a small, but adorable farm that is free to explore. With small groups, entry is donation-only. Many visitors support this educational cause by purchasing feed for the sheep. There are also goats and alpacas, with animal interactions being openly encouraged. If you want even more free farm fun, add the Mudchute Park and Farm to your itinerary.
6. Epping Forest
- Address: 6 Ranger's Road London E4 7QH
- Time Needed: 2 Hours
Staying in the big city shouldn't prevent you from spending quality time in the great outdoors. Take a break from the busy city atmosphere at the charming Epping Forest, which provides an intriguing glimpse at several habitats: woodland, grassland, wetlands and more.
Stop by the visitor center for curated suggestions and don't forget to pack a picnic lunch. It's easy to spend an entire day exploring this outdoor oasis, but a few hours should be enough to recharge as you delight in the sights and sounds of this ancient forest environment.
7. Explore Covent Garden
- Address: 1-7 Covent Garden, London
- Time Needed: 1 Hour
Museums and hiking trails are always enticing, but sometimes the top free activities in London can be discovered simply by choosing a neighborhood and wandering around. Such is the case at the famed Covent Garden in London's West End. This chic area is home to many high-end shops and historic structures. Contortionists and mime artists frequently perform in the Piazza, where people-watching is an enjoyable and free activity.
8. Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park
- Address: Sunken Garden Pond, London W8 4PR
- Time Needed: 1 Hour
Enjoy a taste of royalty as you meander the lovely paths at Kensington Gardens. Wander at your leisure and check out the many statutes and sculptures on display. The Peter Pan area offers fairy tale vibes, but for many visitors the Sunken Garden is the main attraction.
As you stroll beyond the Sunken Garden, take some time to observe the swans. If you're lucky, you may even spot a black swan. Continue beyond Kensington to explore the stunning Hyde Park.
9. Platform 9 3/4 at King's Cross
- Address: King’s Cross, Euston Rd., London N1C 4BU
- Time Needed: 15 Minutes
Harry Potter fans will want to check out this photo opp, which is where wizards famously head to catch the Hogwarts Express. You'll have the chance to pose alongside the trolley, which is hilariously embedded into the wall, though there may be a short wait. If you have a little wiggle room in your budget, you can stop by the station's Harry Potter Shop.
10. Abbey Road
- Address: 3 Abbey Road, London
- Time Needed: 15 Minutes
Serving as another essential photo opp on this list, Abbey Road is known for the zebra crossing featured on an iconic Beatles album cover. Despite its notoriety, this remains an ordinary road, so be careful when you cross and watch for traffic. If you're able to spend a few pounds, head for the nearby Beatles-themed coffee shop, where you'll find all kinds of fascinating memorabilia.
11. Changing of the Guard
- Address: Buckingham Palace. London. SW1A 1AA
- Time Needed: 1 Hour
An essential London experience, the Changing of the Guard is arguably the most memorable of the many London free things to do. Taking place at the iconic Buckingham Palace, this ritual is truly iconic. It takes place daily in June and July, but can also be enjoyed multiple days of the week during the remainder of the year.
The full ceremony lasts approximately one hour and highlights foot guards being relieved of their duties. Most people will attempt to view this from the Buckingham Palace gates, but you'll have better luck if you head for The Mall or the Victoria Memorial.
12. Borough Market
- Address: London SE1 9AL
- Time Needed: 1 Hour
Shopping doesn't need to be expensive; although, at Borough Market you can certainly be a big spender. That being said, you can also gaze in awe at the many delectable treats on display. This is a quintessential London market, boasting the city's best produce and street food.
You can enjoy the sights, scents and sounds for free, but this can still be one of the best affordable things to do in London if you set aside a few pounds for lunch. If you want to continue the market fun, check out the vintage goods and diverse culinary offerings at the beloved Portobello Road Market.
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