London’s got a reputation for draining wallets faster than a souvenir shop in Piccadilly Circus. But guess what? Some of the city’s best experiences won’t cost you a single pence! Whether you’re a history nerd, an art lover, or just in the mood for a scenic wander, there are plenty of free things to do in London that are big on charm but easy on your budget.
Who says you need deep pockets to have an unforgettable time in London? This city overflows with history, art, and stunning views. And the best part? Some of its most incredible experiences won’t cost you a thing. You can marvel at ancient artifacts, take in skyline views that rival the priciest rooftop bars, and wander through neighborhoods that have inspired poets, playwrights, and dreamers for centuries — all without spending a single pound.
Ready to experience the best free things to do in London? Let’s go!
What’s Your Favorite Thing to Do in London?
Share your favorite photo with me by tagging @sagescott.kc on Instagram and using the hashtag #everydaywanderer
Learn About London’s History for Free
London’s rich history fills every corner of the city, from medieval towers to grand palaces and historic bridges. While a guided tour of the top London sights is certainly insightful, you can also explore much of it for free.
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is easily one of London’s most recognizable landmarks, with its towering twin spires and dramatic bascules. This stunning Victorian-era drawbridge has spanned the Thames since 1894, with its twin towers standing tall over the river.
While there’s a paid exhibition inside, you don’t need a ticket to appreciate its beauty. Walk across its suspension spans, watch the massive bascules lift for passing boats, and soak in breathtaking city views. Want that picture-perfect shot? Cross over to Butler’s Wharf or the Tower of London.
London Bridge
London Bridge has been around in one form or another for nearly 2,000 years. The current bridge is the latest in a long line of crossings dating back to Roman times. While the medieval version was lined with shops and homes — and yes, even a few heads on spikes — today’s bridge is a modern, practical structure completed in 1973. Walk over it for fantastic views of the Thames, with The Shard towering overhead and the city skyline stretching out before you.
Tower of London
Stepping inside the Tower of London and gazing at the Crown Jewels comes with a price tag. But, you don’t have to go beyond its fortress walls to soak in its history. Walk around the imposing structure and admire the same thick stone walls that have stood for nearly a thousand years.
Keep an eye out for the Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters, who patrol the grounds in their distinctive uniforms. They’re happy to pose for photos and share stories about the Tower’s legendary past. And if you time your visit right, you might even hear the distant calls of the resident ravens — legend has it that if they ever leave, the kingdom will fall!
Related Article: What is Afternoon Tea? All About This British Tradition
Buckingham Palace
No visit to London is complete without a stop at Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. While touring the inside requires a ticket, standing outside its grand gates is a spectacle in itself.
Keep an eye on the flag flying above. If it’s the Royal Standard (rather than the Union Jack), then the King is home! Time your visit right, and you can witness the Changing of the Guard, a centuries-old tradition where soldiers in red tunics and bearskin hats march in perfect synchrony from St. James’s Palace to Buckingham Palace. It’s a display of British pageantry at its finest, and best of all, it’s free to watch.
Trafalgar Square
Just a short walk from Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square is a lively public space filled with history, art, and impressive architecture. Standing tall in its center is Nelson’s Column, a towering tribute to Admiral Horatio Nelson, that is surrounded by four massive bronze lions. The square is also home to the famous Fourth Plinth, where contemporary art installations rotate regularly. Whether you’re people-watching, taking in street performances, or admiring the fountains, this iconic square is a must-visit stop on any free London itinerary.
Related Article: England, Great Britain, and the United Kingdom — What’s the Difference?
Best Free Views in London
From historic landmarks to cutting-edge skyscrapers, London’s skyline is a stunner. Fortunately, you don’t need a pricey ticket to soak it all in.
Primrose Hill
Located on the northern side of Regent’s Park, Primrose Hill provides one of London’s most stunning skyline views. And when you climb to the top, you’ll feel as if you’ve unlocked a secret London postcard scene. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the city, with the London Eye, The Shard, and St. Paul’s Cathedral forming a picture-perfect backdrop.
Sky Garden
Perched atop the Walkie Talkie building, Sky Garden offers 360-degree views of London from a lush indoor garden setting. Entry is free, but you must book a ticket in advance through their website to secure your spot.
King Henry’s Mound
Tucked away in Richmond Park, this historic viewpoint provides a perfectly framed view of St. Paul’s Cathedral, over 10 miles away. It’s one of London’s few protected sightlines, meaning the view has remained unobstructed for centuries.
Parliament Hill
Head to Parliament Hill in Hampstead Heath for another impressive vantage point. This spot offers sweeping views of London, making it a favorite among locals and photographers.
Crossrail Place Roof Garden
An unexpected oasis in the heart of Canary Wharf, this rooftop garden is a peaceful retreat with striking views of the surrounding skyscrapers. It’s a great place to relax while admiring London’s modern skyline.
Literary London for Free
For book lovers, London is a dream come true. The city has been home to literary legends, inspired famous stories, and boasts several free attractions where you can immerse yourself in its rich literary heritage.
The British Library
A treasure trove for book lovers, the British Library houses some of the world’s most significant literary works. While you’ll need to purchase a ticket for special exhibits, visitors can explore the permanent collections in the Treasures Gallery for free. Here you’ll discover amazing items like the Magna Carta, Shakespeare’s First Folio, and Jane Austen’s writing desk on display.
Shakespeare’s Globe
Attending a performance at the reconstructed Globe Theatre comes with a fee, but you can still soak in Shakespearean history for free by exploring the surrounding area. The open-air courtyard and exterior displays provide insight into the Bard’s world, with information about the theatre’s history and its role in preserving Shakespeare’s legacy.
Harry Potter Sites
While there are benefits to having a local guide you, fans of the wizarding world can explore several Harry Potter filming locations around London at no cost. Visit Leadenhall Market, the purported inspiration for Diagon Alley, or stand outside Australia House, which served as the exterior for Gringotts Bank. Other free stops include the iconic Millennium Bridge (famously destroyed by Death Eaters in the films) and Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station — complete with a luggage trolley disappearing into the wall for that perfect photo op.
Best Free Museums in London
London is home to some of the world’s most renowned museums, and many of them offer free entry. Whether you’re into art, history, or science, these collections provide an enriching experience without costing a pence.
The National Gallery
Located in Trafalgar Square, The National Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers. It houses an immense collection of European paintings, including masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet, Rembrandt, and da Vinci — all free to admire.
Tate Modern
The Tate Modern is one of the world’s leading contemporary art museums. Housed in a former power station along the Thames, its free art galleries showcase works by Picasso, Warhol, and Rothko, among others. For a unique perspective, head to the top-floor viewing terrace for stunning river and city views.
The British Museum
A true treasure trove of human history, the British Museum offers a staggering collection of artifacts from around the world. Where else can you stand face-to-face with the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and a room full of ancient mummies for free?
Natural History Museum
Step inside the breathtaking Natural History Museum and be greeted by Hope, a towering blue whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling. Wander through the museum’s incredible fossil collection, get an up-close look at a piece of real moon rock, and admire dazzling gemstones in the Minerals Gallery. With its striking Romanesque architecture and world-class exhibits, this museum is a must-visit for science and nature lovers.
London’s Best Green Spaces
London is famous for its stunning parks and gardens, offering peaceful retreats from the city’s hustle and bustle. Whether you’re looking for a scenic stroll, a perfect picnic spot, or a chance to spot some wildlife, these green spaces are free to explore.
St. James’s Park
As one of London’s eight Royal Parks, St. James’s Park is a beautifully landscaped space steeped in history. It sits between Buckingham Palace and Westminster, making it a prime spot for iconic sights. The park’s picturesque lake is home to a famous colony of resident pelicans, a tradition that dates to a 17th-century gift from the Russian ambassador. With its lush flower beds, charming bridges, and views of the palace, St. James’s Park is a delightful place to wander, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Kensington Gardens
Originally part of Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens offers a tranquil retreat with a regal touch. The gardens are home to Kensington Palace, the Albert Memorial, and the famous Peter Pan statue. With its tree-lined pathways, formal flower beds, and peaceful Italian gardens, this park is perfect for a relaxing stroll. Families will also love the Diana Memorial Playground, inspired by the adventures of Peter Pan, featuring a giant wooden pirate ship for kids to explore.
Hyde Park
Hyde Park isn’t just big, it’s legendary. Spanning 340 acres, this green oasis is where Londoners go to escape the city. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely walk, a scenic picnic with tea sandwiches, or even a paddle on the Serpentine.
If you’re there on a Sunday morning, don’t miss Speaker’s Corner in the northeast corner of the park. Since the 19th century, this historic spot has been a platform for open debate, where anyone can stand on a soapbox and speak on any subject they choose — sometimes to an animated, heckling crowd. Famous speakers over the years have included Karl Marx, George Orwell, and Vladimir Lenin. You never know who might be speaking when you visit, and if you’re feeling bold, you could even take the stage yourself!
See More, Spend Less
London is a city that’s packed with history, culture, and breathtaking sights. But the best news is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to experience it all. From world-class museums and historic landmarks to sprawling parks and stunning viewpoints, there are many ways to explore the British capital without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re wandering through centuries-old streets, admiring priceless works of art, or watching the world go by in a vibrant public square, the best things in London are often free. So grab your walking shoes, charge your camera, and get ready to discover the best of London — all without spending a pound.
What’s Your Favorite Free Thing to Do in London?
Have you uncovered a hidden gem, stumbled upon an amazing street performer, or found the perfect picnic spot in one of London’s parks? I’d love to hear all about it! Drop your favorite free London experiences in the comments below!
Portions of this article originally appeared on Food Drink Life.
Ready to Go?
Use These Helpful Links to Book Your Trip!
- Find low fares with airfarewatchdog and Skyscanner
- Book your plane ticket with Expedia or Kayak
- Or take the scenic route on an epic road trip in a rental car or an RV from Outdoorsy
- From hotels to private homes, find the perfect accommodation with Hotels.com or Vrbo
- Travel in style with a suitcase, carry-on, backpack, or handbag from eBags
- Save on tickets to attractions, sightseeing tours, and more with CityPASS, Tiqets, and Viator
- Don’t leave home without travel insurance from AXA
- Discover the sights, history, and culture of your destination with an interactive scavenger hunt
- Need something else to plan your perfect trip? Visit my travel resources page for more trusted partners. Happy wandering!
Big cities stress me out, so knowing the best places to visit is extremely helpful. I feel much more prepared after reading this article! I can’t wait to check out the Kensington Gardens when I go to London in a few weeks!
It is so pretty, especially this time of year!