Top 10 Free Things to do in London

Free Things to do in London

London is a city that never sleeps and always has something to offer, no matter what your budget is. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, there are countless free things to do in London. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, we’ve rounded up the top 10 free activities that will make your trip unforgettable without breaking the bank! So, grab your walking shoes and get ready for an adventure in one of the world’s most vibrant cities.

1. Houses of Parliament

The Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster, is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in British history and politics. Located on the banks of the river Thames, this iconic building has been home to the UK’s government since 1801. Visitors can take a free tour through some parts of the Houses of Parliament, including Westminster Hall and Central Lobby. You’ll get to see where debates take place in both the House of Commons and House of Lords. If you’re lucky enough to be there during session time, you might even catch a glimpse of some MPs or Lords in action!

One thing not to miss is Big Ben – London’s famous clock tower that stands tall above the Houses of Parliament. Unfortunately, tours inside Big Ben are currently suspended due to renovations but its exterior remains an impressive sight. Make sure you check out outside too! The Victoria Tower Gardens behind it offer stunning views across to Lambeth Palace and St Thomas’ Hospital

2. Tumbling Bay playground

Tumbling Bay playground is a must-visit destination for families with kids. Located in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, it’s one of the most exciting and adventurous playgrounds in London. The playground features an array of fun-filled activities that cater to children of all ages. From sand pits to water play areas, bridges, and treehouses – there’s something for everyone. The centrepiece of Tumbling Bay Playground is its giant slide that towers high above the ground.

The theme of this unique playground is inspired by nature and encourages children to explore their environment through playing. Kids can climb on rocks or swing across rope bridges while imagining they are exploring a jungle or hiking mountains. Parents can sit back and relax at one of the many benches surrounding the playground while watching their kids run around having fun. And best yet – it’s entirely free! Tumbling Bay Playground offers an excellent opportunity for families who want to spend quality time together without breaking the bank!

3. Covent Garden

Covent Garden is a vibrant and bustling area in the heart of London that has something for everyone. From street performers to high-end shopping, this neighbourhood is filled with energy and excitement. One of the top attractions in Covent Garden is its world-famous market, which offers a diverse range of food, crafts, and souvenirs. Visitors can sample everything from fresh produce to handmade jewellery while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

In addition to shopping, Covent Garden also boasts some of London’s best theatres and performance spaces. The Royal Opera House and the West End are both located here, making it an ideal destination for theatre lovers. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of cozy cafes and traditional pubs where visitors can unwind over a cup of tea or pint of ale. And if you’re lucky enough to visit during Christmas time, be sure to check out the stunning decorations throughout the area. Covent Garden is one of London’s most iconic neighbourhoods that should not be missed by any visitor looking for an authentic taste of city life.

4. Primrose Hill

Primrose Hill is a picturesque hill located in the north of Regent’s Park. It is one of the most popular spots in London for a picnic, especially during summer. The hill provides stunning views across London and on clear days you can even see as far as Canary Wharf. The park is also home to an array of wildlife including birds, foxes and squirrels making it perfect for nature lovers. During springtime, the park comes alive with vibrant colours from its collection of wildflowers.

For those who love walking or running, Primrose Hill offers plenty of space to stretch your legs while taking in stunning scenery. There are also numerous benches dotted around the area where visitors can relax and soak up the atmosphere. In addition to its natural beauty, Primrose Hill has played host to many cultural events such as music festivals and outdoor theatre productions. With so much going on there is always something new to discover at this iconic location.

5. Tate Modern

Tate Modern is one of the most popular free attractions in London. It’s an art museum located on the South Bank of the River Thames and is a must-visit for anyone interested in contemporary art. The museum has a vast collection of international modern and contemporary art, including works by famous artists like Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, Andy Warhol, and many more. One of the best things about Tate Modern is that it offers stunning views of London from its viewing platform on Level 10. Visitors can enjoy breath-taking panoramic views of the city while exploring some of the world’s most exceptional contemporary art collections.

Apart from hosting exhibitions and displays throughout the year, Tate Modern also provides various educational programs suitable for all age groups to encourage public engagement with artistic practices. The building itself is worth exploring too; it was once a power station before being converted into an open-plan gallery space designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron. Tate Modern offers visitors an enriching experience at no cost – making it one of our top picks for free things to do in London!

6. London Wall

London Wall is a fascinating piece of history that dates back to the Roman times. The wall was built by the Romans in AD 200 and served as a defensive fortification for London. Today, only fragments of the original wall remain scattered throughout the city. Visiting London Wall is one of the top free things to do in London, especially if you’re interested in history. You can take a stroll along its remains and imagine what it must have been like centuries ago when it protected the bustling city from invaders.

One of the best-preserved sections of London Wall can be found at Tower Hill. Here, you can see part of an ancient bastion that once guarded one end of the wall. The section also includes some intact medieval features such as turrets and arrow loops. Another interesting spot on London Wall is located near St Alphage Gardens where you’ll find two towers known as Bastion 14a and b. These are thought to have been built during Henry VIII’s reign in order to strengthen Tudor defences around East Smithfield. Visiting London Wall is an excellent opportunity to explore ancient history while taking in modern-day views and landmarks around town!

7. London music festival

London is a city that loves its music, and lucky for us, there are plenty of free festivals throughout the year. One of the most popular is London Music Festival. This festival features live music from a variety of genres including pop, rock, jazz and classical. The festival takes place in some of London’s most iconic locations such as Trafalgar Square and Hyde Park. It usually runs for several days with multiple stages offering different styles of music at each one. One great thing about this festival is that it caters to all ages. There are performances specifically designed for families with children as well as more adult-oriented events later in the evening.

In addition to the music performances, you’ll also find food stalls serving delicious cuisine from around the world. So bring your picnic blanket and enjoy an afternoon or evening listening to some fantastic tunes while taking in all that London has to offer!

8. British Library

The British Library is a must-visit for any book lover or history buff. With over 170 million items in its collection, it’s the largest library in the world by number of items. And the best part? Admission to most exhibitions and events is free! One of the highlights of the British Library is its Treasures Gallery, which showcases some of its most valuable and interesting pieces. Here you can see original manuscripts from Shakespeare, Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures Under Ground, and even a copy of Magna Carta.

But there are also plenty of other exhibitions on offer at the British Library throughout the year. Past exhibitions have focused on everything from punk rock to ancient maps. If you’re interested in research, you’ll be pleased to know that anyone over 18 with a Reader Pass can access many items from their vast collection for free! Whether you’re looking up family history or doing academic research, this makes it an invaluable resource.

9. Highgate Wood

Highgate Wood is a hidden gem in London that offers an escape from the busy city streets. Spanning 28 hectares, this ancient woodland is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including oak trees that are over 300 years old. As you explore the winding pathways through Highgate Wood, you’ll discover a variety of habitats, from grassy glades to shady ponds. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as woodpeckers, foxes and even muntjac deer.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Highgate Wood has something for everyone. There are several walking trails throughout the woodland that offer stunning views across London. You can also bring along a picnic or enjoy one at the on-site café while taking in the tranquil surroundings. If you’re interested in history, be sure to visit the remains of an Iron Age hill fort located within Highgate Wood. This site dates back over two thousand years and provides insight into early human settlement in the area.

Best of all? Admission to Highgate Wood is completely free! So whether you’re looking for some peace and quiet or simply want to immerse yourself in nature within easy reach of central London – make sure to add Highgate Wood to your list of must-visit places!

10. Leadenhall Market

There you have it, our list of the Top 10 Free Things to Do in London. We hope that we’ve inspired you to explore this wonderful city without breaking the bank. From visiting iconic landmarks such as Houses of Parliament and Tate Modern to enjoying nature at Highgate Wood and Primrose Hill, there’s no shortage of things to do in London for free. And last but not least on our list is Leadenhall Market – a stunning covered market located in the heart of the City of London. This historic market dates back to the 14th century and was once a meat, poultry, and game market. Today it’s home to various shops selling everything from flowers and cheese to clothing and jewellery.

But even if shopping isn’t your thing, just strolling through Leadenhall Market will transport you back in time with its cobbled streets, ornate arches, and beautiful architecture. It’s also been featured in several films including Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. So next time you’re looking for something free to do in London why not visit Leadenhall Market? You won’t be disappointed!