50 Free things to do in London
- Apr 27
- 6 min read
London is a city packed with history, culture, and excitement, but exploring it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there are countless free activities that offer a rich experience without spending a penny. From world-class museums to beautiful parks and unique neighbourhoods, London invites you to discover its treasures for free. This guide lists 50 fun and free things to do in London, complete with details, locations, and official website links where available.
Museums and Galleries
London is famous for its museums and galleries, many of which offer free entry to their permanent collections. These places provide a deep dive into art, history, and culture.
The British Museum
Explore artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and beyond. Highlights include the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.
Location: Great Russell St, Bloomsbury, London WC1B 3DG
Tate Modern
Modern and contemporary art housed in a former power station on the South Bank. Don’t miss the Turbine Hall installations.
Location: Bankside, London SE1 9TG
National Gallery
Home to masterpieces by Van Gogh, Da Vinci, and Turner, located in Trafalgar Square.
Location: Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN
Victoria and Albert Museum
The world’s largest museum of decorative arts and design, with collections ranging from fashion to ceramics.
Location: Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 2RL
Natural History Museum
Famous for its dinosaur skeletons and the impressive Hintze Hall with a blue whale skeleton.
Location: Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD
Science Museum
Interactive exhibits on science, technology, and medicine, great for families and curious minds.
Location: Exhibition Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 2DD
The Wallace Collection
A hidden gem with fine and decorative arts in a historic London townhouse.
Location: Hertford House, Manchester Square, London W1U 3BN
The Museum of London
Discover London’s history from prehistoric times to the present day.
Location: 150 London Wall, Barbican, London EC2Y 5HN
The National Portrait Gallery
Portraits of famous British figures from Tudor times to the present.
Location: St Martin’s Pl, London WC2H 0HE
10. Serpentine Galleries
Contemporary art galleries in Kensington Gardens, featuring changing exhibitions.
Location: Kensington Gardens, London W2 3XA
Parks and Gardens
London’s green spaces offer a peaceful escape and plenty of free activities like walking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.
11. Hyde Park
One of London’s largest parks with the Serpentine lake, Speaker’s Corner, and beautiful gardens.
Location: Hyde Park, London W2 2UH
12. Regent’s Park
Home to the Open Air Theatre and Queen Mary’s Gardens with over 12,000 roses.
Location: Regent’s Park, London NW1 4NR
13. Greenwich Park
Offers stunning views of the city skyline and the Prime Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory.
Location: Greenwich, London SE10 8XJ
14. Hampstead Heath
A large, wild park with ponds, woodlands, and Parliament Hill for panoramic city views.
Location: Hampstead, London NW3 7JN
15. Kew Gardens (Free on certain days)
While usually ticketed, Kew Gardens offers free entry on specific days or for residents of certain boroughs. Check their website for details.
Location: Richmond, London TW9 3AE
16. St James’s Park
The oldest Royal Park, famous for its flowerbeds and views of Buckingham Palace.
Location: St James’s Park, London SW1A 2BJ
17. Victoria Park
East London’s largest park with lakes, playgrounds, and open-air events.
Location: London E9 7DE
18. Battersea Park
A riverside park with a boating lake, zoo, and beautiful gardens.
Location: Battersea Park Rd, London SW11 4NJ
19. Richmond Park
Known for its wild deer herds and vast open spaces, perfect for cycling and walking.
Location: Richmond, London TW10 5HS
20. Chelsea Physic Garden
Free entry on the first Tuesday of every month; explore one of the oldest botanical gardens in London.
Location: 66 Royal Hospital Rd, Chelsea, London SW3 4HS
Historic and Cultural Sites
London’s history is visible everywhere. Many landmarks and cultural sites welcome visitors for free.
21. Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace
Watch the iconic ceremony outside Buckingham Palace. Check the schedule as it varies by season.
Location: Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA
22. The Houses of Parliament (Visitor Centre)
Explore the exterior and visit the free exhibition in the visitor centre to learn about UK politics.
Location: Westminster, London SW1A 0AA
23. Trafalgar Square
A historic public square with Nelson’s Column, fountains, and regular free events.
Location: Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN
24. The Southbank Centre
A hub for arts and culture with free exhibitions, performances, and riverside views.
Location: Belvedere Rd, London SE1 8XX
25. Leadenhall Market
A beautiful covered market with Victorian architecture, featured in films like Harry Potter.
Location: Gracechurch St, London EC3V 1LT
26. Covent Garden Piazza
Street performers, markets, and historic buildings make this a lively free attraction.
Location: Covent Garden, London WC2E 8RF
27. The Royal Air Force Museum London
Explore aviation history with aircraft displays and interactive exhibits.
Location: Grahame Park Way, London NW9 5LL
28. The Geffrye Museum (Museum of the Home)
Discover the history of English domestic interiors from 1600 to the present.
Location: 136 Kingsland Rd, London E2 8EA
29. The Bank of England Museum
Learn about the history of money and the Bank of England’s role in the economy.
Location: Bartholomew Ln, London EC2R 8AH
30. The Horniman Museum and Gardens
Natural history, anthropology, and musical instruments with beautiful gardens.
Location: 100 London Rd, Forest Hill, London SE23 3PQ
Markets and Neighbourhoods
Exploring London’s diverse neighbourhoods and markets is a great way to soak up local culture for free.
31. Camden Market
Browse stalls selling crafts, vintage clothes, and street food in this vibrant market area.
Location: Camden Lock Pl, London NW1 8AF
32. Portobello Road Market
Famous for antiques and street food, especially lively on Saturdays.
Location: Portobello Rd, London W11 1LJ
33. Brick Lane
Known for street art, vintage shops, and cultural diversity. Walk around to spot murals and enjoy the atmosphere.
Location: Brick Lane, London E1 6QR
34. Columbia Road Flower Market
A Sunday market bursting with flowers and plants, plus independent shops nearby.
Location: Columbia Rd, London E2 7RG
35. Chinatown
Experience vibrant Chinese culture, colourful decorations, and window shopping.
Location: Gerrard St, London W1D 5PN
36. Notting Hill
Famous for its pastel houses and the annual carnival, stroll through the streets and enjoy the architecture.
Location: Notting Hill, London W11
37. Southbank Walk
Walk along the Thames from the London Eye to Tower Bridge, passing street performers and landmarks.
Location: South Bank, London SE1
38. Greenwich Market
Crafts, antiques, and food stalls in a historic market setting.
Location: Greenwich, London SE10 9HZ
39. Spitalfields Market
A mix of fashion, art, and food stalls in a historic market building.
Location: 16 Horner Square, London E1 6EW
40. Seven Dials
A charming area with independent shops and a historic sundial pillar.
Location: Covent Garden, London WC2H 9HD
Unique Experiences and Events
London offers many free events and unique experiences throughout the year.
41. Street Art Tours in Shoreditch
Explore the colourful street art scene on a self-guided walk around Shoreditch.
Location: Shoreditch, London E1
42. Free Walking Tours
Several companies offer free walking tours covering history, street art, or Harry Potter filming locations. Booking recommended.
Example: sandemansnewlondon.com
43. The Scoop at More London
Outdoor amphitheater with free summer performances including theatre, music, and film.
Location: More London Riverside, London SE1 2DB
44. Open House London
Annual event giving free access to many normally closed buildings and landmarks.
Location: Various across London
45. Museum Lates
Many museums host free late-night openings with talks, music, and workshops. Check individual museum websites.
46. The Royal Festival Hall
Free concerts and events in this iconic Southbank venue.
Location: Southbank Centre, London SE1 8XX
47. The British Library
Explore exhibitions and the historic reading rooms; free entry.
Location: 96 Euston Rd, London NW1 2DB
48. Sky Garden
Free public garden with panoramic views of London’s skyline. Booking in advance is required.
Location: 20 Fenchurch St, London EC3M 8AF
49. The Tate Britain
Free entry to the permanent collection showcasing British art from 1500 onwards.
Location: Millbank, London SW1P 4RG
50. The National Maritime Museum
Explore Britain’s naval history with galleries and interactive displays.
Location: Romney Rd, Greenwich, London SE10 9NF
Comments