Like many capital cities, London is expensive for both locals and tourists alike. So, we’ve put together this quick guide to the best Free Things to Do in London. There is so much that you can do in London without having to spend a penny, and for ease of reading we’ve organised our top picks into: museums, galleries and green spaces. Enjoy!
Museums
Imperial War Museum
An engaging journey through the history of conflict, featuring powerful exhibitions on both World Wars and modern-day conflicts with an extensive collection of military artefacts, personal stories, and interactive displays.
Natural History Museum
Fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, dodos, gemstones and more, with the history of the natural world from prehistoric to modern times.
Science Museum
Access exciting exhibits on scientific discoveries, space exploration, and cutting-edge technology, perfect for curious minds of all ages.
Victoria and Albert Museum
A stunning collection of historical art, fashion, and design, showcasing everything from royal garments to classic statues–a must-visit for fashion and history enthusiasts.
British Museum
Home to a vast collection of art and artefacts, including the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and ancient sculptures, offering a fascinating journey through global history and culture.
John Soane’s Museum
Once home to a renowned architect, it now houses a fascinating collection of art, antiquities, and curiosities, displayed in the Soane’s original setting.
Hunterian Museum
A slightly grisly but remarkable collection of medical specimens, anatomical drawings, and scientific curiosities ranging from preserved organs to ancient surgical tools.
Design Museum
Celebrates design in all its forms, from architecture to fashion to graphic design, its exhibitions explore the impact of design on everyday life, creativity, innovation, and craftsmanship.
Galleries
Horizon 22
Showcases dynamic exhibitions by emerging artists alongside stunning 53rd-floor views out over central London, including St. Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster Abbey and the London Eye. Best viewpoint in the city.
Tate Modern
World-renowned contemporary art museum that is one of the most visited in the world, featuring works by iconic artists such as Picasso, Rothko, Matisse, and Pollock.
Tate Britain
An extensive collection of British art, from classic masterpieces by Turner and Blake to modern works, exploring the history of British art and its evolution over the centuries.
National Gallery
A must-see for art lovers, featuring over 2,300 masterpieces from throughout history by artists like da Vinci, Van Gogh, and Monet.
Green spaces
Highgate Cemetery
A historic burial site famous for its Victorian architecture, including grand mausoleums and intricate tombs, it is the final resting place of notable figures like Karl Marx and George Michael.
St James’s Park & Green Park
St. James’s Park is known for its stunning lake, iconic views of Buckingham Palace, and vibrant flowerbeds. Green Park, with its more tranquil atmosphere, is perfect for relaxing in the shade and watching local wildlife.
Greenwich Park
Offering beautiful gardens, and stunning views of the River Thames and Canary Wharf, this park is also home to the historic Royal Observatory and the National Maritime Museum.
Regents Park
One of London’s largest and most beautiful parks, with expansive lawns and tranquil lakes. The park also features the renowned London Zoo and Queen Mary’s Gardens.
Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens
Hyde Park is known for its serene Serpentine Lake and the Diana Memorial Fountain, and the nearby Kensington Gardens are home to Kensington Palace, an official residence of the British royal family. Both parks are ideal for walking, picnicking, and exploring.
Little Venice
A picturesque area known for its charming canals, waterside cafes, and vibrant houseboats.
Visitors enjoy scenic boat rides, canal-side dining, and popping into the floating charming Bookshop Barge.
Explore more of England
In summary, there’s so much more of London to explore outside of the tourist traps and expense of the city centre. Thank you for reading, and we hope this guide has been helpful! And if you would like to see more of England outside the capital, check out our amazing Day Tours from London. Looking forward to seeing you on tour soon!
