Free Things to Do in London: Museums, Markets & Parks

Features

22/10/2018

Free Things to Do in London

London regularly ranks as one of the most expensive cities in the world. However, that doesn’t mean you need a big budget to enjoy it. In fact, some of the best experiences in the capital cost nothing at all.

From world-class museums and green parks to markets, walking tours and live performances, there are countless free things to do in London. With a little planning, you can explore the city, soak up its culture and still keep your spending under control.

This guide highlights the best free things to do in London for visitors and locals alike.

Visit London’s free museums and galleries

London is home to some of the finest museums and galleries in the world. Even better, many of them offer free entry to their permanent collections. As a result, you can enjoy history, art and science without paying an entrance fee.

Some of the best free museums and galleries in London include:

Relax in London’s parks and green spaces

Although London is a global city, it also offers an impressive amount of green space. These parks provide a welcome break from sightseeing and busy streets.

Whether you want to walk, picnic or simply relax, London’s parks deliver. Popular options include:

Walk along the River Thames

London is best explored on foot, and the River Thames offers one of the city’s most scenic routes. A riverside walk gives you views of iconic landmarks while costing nothing.

Along the way, you can see the London Eye, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and the Palace of Westminster. In addition, the South Bank features cultural venues such as the Southbank Centre, the Royal National Theatre and the Tate Modern.

Explore London’s markets

London’s markets offer a lively atmosphere and endless variety. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, they are a great way to spend a few hours.

You can browse food stalls, vintage clothing, antiques and crafts at markets such as:

Borough Market – food
Portobello Road Market – antiques and vintage
Brick Lane Market – vintage and furniture
Camden Lock Market – fashion and accessories
Old Spitalfields Market – fashion and art
Greenwich Market – jewellery and crafts
Columbia Road Flower Market – flowers and plants

Visit the Sky Garden for free views

Sky Garden offers panoramic views across London from the top of a skyscraper. Entry is free, although you must book in advance.

You can enjoy the indoor garden and city views without spending anything. There is also a bar and restaurant if you choose to stay longer.

20 Fenchurch Street, London EC3M 8AF
Open 10am–6pm Monday to Friday and 11am–9pm on weekends

Join a free walking tour

Free walking tours run throughout London every day. These tours offer insight into the city’s history, culture and hidden corners.

Guides work for tips, so you pay what you feel the tour was worth. A popular option is the free Harry Potter walking tour, which visits locations that inspired the books and films.

Fans should also visit Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station for a photo.

Enjoy street performances in Covent Garden

Covent Garden offers free entertainment every day. You can watch skilled street performers while soaking up the atmosphere.

Performers must audition to appear in the Piazza. As a result, the quality remains high. You can also explore nearby historic streets linked to Charles Dickens and other writers.

Take part in free fitness classes

You don’t need a gym membership to stay active in London. Many sports brands, including Sweaty Betty, Nike, Adidas and Lululemon, offer free in-store classes.

In addition, community groups such as Parkrun, GoodGym and Our Parks run free outdoor sessions across the city.