10 best free things to do in London (New List 2024) Last Updated: June 16, 2024

London is packed with amazing things to do, and the best part is, many of them are free!

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you live here, you can explore a lot without spending any money. From famous museums and beautiful parks to vibrant markets and historic landmarks, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the Best free things to do in London that will make your day unforgettable.

1. Explore the Local Markets

In London, the charm of traditional markets is alive and well. You can lose yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells, from fresh-cut flowers and yummy street food to homemade pies and cakes. Here’s where you can find antique treasures, vintage clothes, and fresh ingredients, giving you a taste of real London. Here are a few popular markets you can visit:

• Portobello Road

In Notting Hill, this iconic market is a treasure trove of vintage finds. Explore on a Saturday to sift through trays of old watches, buttons, and brooches. Grab a hot coffee, enjoy street food, and don’t miss the famous Notting Hill Bookshop.

• Covent Garden

Located in central London, Covent Garden is always buzzing. Visit on a weekday morning to avoid the crowds. Discover quirky boutiques and street performers, and check out the Jubilee Market for unique crafts and souvenirs.

• Borough Market

Praised by Jamie Oliver, Borough Market is a food lover’s paradise. Indulge in halloumi burgers, raclette sourdoughs, colourful paellas, and more. Shop for high-quality fresh produce and enjoy a meal while watching the hustle and bustle around Southwark Cathedral.

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2. Visit Tate Modern Museum

You’ve got to check out Tate Modern! It’s one of the best places to see modern and contemporary art from around the world, and the best part is, it’s free! You’ll find incredible works by legends like Pablo Picasso, Yayoi Kusama, and Henri Matisse. Don’t miss the iconic Turbine Hall – it’s massive and always has something amazing on display. Plus, head down to the underground Tanks for live performances and video art. It’s a must-visit for any art lover!

3. Check Out Hyde Park

Next on the list is Hyde Park. As the largest Royal Park in central London, there’s plenty of space for everyone. Whether you’re into high-energy rock concerts, horse riding down Rotten Row, browsing the Royal Parks’ first-ever shop, or simply relaxing in a deck chair, Hyde Park has it all.

Even if you live locally or are visiting for the first time, there’s always something new to discover. Here, you can feel the passion and politics at Speakers’ Corner, where legends like Karl Marx and Emmeline Pankhurst once inspired crowds. This place is a must-visit for history buffs and relaxation seekers alike.

4. Shopping in Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus itself doesn’t have many shops, but the surrounding streets (Piccadilly Square) offer plenty of options:

• Coventry Street: Connects Piccadilly Circus to Leicester Square. Find the Trocadero shopping complex, independent souvenir shops, and discount theatre tickets here.
• Regent Street: Known for top-notch shopping with department stores and high street flagship stores.
• Lower Regent Street: Leads to Pall Mall. Features upmarket clothes, jewellery shops, and some Japanese speciality stores.
• Piccadilly: Home to Fortnum and Mason and the largest bookshop in Europe. You’ll find upscale stores for clothes, books, and jewellery. It’s right next to Regent Street, so you can easily shop from both.

5. National Gallery

It’s an incredible art museum located on the north side of Trafalgar Square in Westminster. This museum houses Great Britain’s national collection of European paintings, and it’s breathtaking.

The collection features around 2,600 works, making it one of the most representative samplings of European painting in the world. If you’re into Italian Renaissance art, then this is the perfect free thing to do in London. The National Gallery boasts the most comprehensive collection of Italian Renaissance paintings outside of Italy. You’ll find works by the greatest Florentine and Venetian masters of that period.

6. Watch Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace 

You won’t want to miss watching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. It’s a ceremonial tradition where the King’s Guard hands over responsibility for protecting Buckingham Palace and St. James’s Palace to the New Guard.

The ceremony begins with a march by a detachment of the Old Guard, accompanied by music, from St. James’s Palace. The New Guard, led by a Regimental Band from Wellington Barracks, then takes over on the forecourt of Buckingham Palace starting at 11:00 am. The ceremony lasts for approximately 45 minutes.

Always check the confirmed dates & times for Changing the Guard as schedules can change, sometimes at short notice. Usually happens on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

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7. Visit Sky Garden

Sky Garden is a breathtaking place in London – lush greenery, stunning views, and a serene atmosphere high above the city. And guess what? Access is totally free on weekdays from 10 am to 6 pm and weekends from 11 am to 9 pm! You need to book tickets at least 3 weeks in advance. Tickets are available for booking on their website, and they’re only valid for the date and time stated on the ticket, with a time limit of 1 hour from entry.

This place has a certain age limit so, if you’re over 18 but look under 25, don’t forget to bring along your ID – safety first! Oh, and kids under 16 can’t enter Sky Garden after 6 pm on weekdays and 9 pm on weekends.

8. South Bank Centre

South bank is not just an arts and entertainment district – it’s a hub of creativity and excitement.

This place is a home to iconic venues like the Royal Festival Hall, the Queen Elizabeth Hall, and The Hayward Gallery. These are must-visit spots for anyone who loves music, art, and culture.

But that’s not all! The South Bank comprises many of London’s top landmarks and attractions. Take a stroll along the river and you’ll find the famous London Eye offering stunning views of the city skyline. Nearby, the London Dungeon brings history to life with thrilling shows and exhibits.

9. Chinatown London

Situated between Leicester Square and Shaftesbury Avenue/Soho, this multicultural hub offers Authentic Chinese restaurants, Unique stores and traditional clothing shops and lively pubs and bakeries.

Whether day or night, Chinatown is always buzzing with activity. It’s the perfect spot to experience a taste of Asia in the heart of London.

10. Witness the Tower Bridge Lift

Tower Bridge lift is an iconic sight in London where the bridge’s bascules are raised to let boats pass through the Thames River.

Standing there, you can witness this historic bridge open up right before your eyes, offering stunning views of the city and the river below. It’s a mesmerising display of engineering and history, and it happens several times a day.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, watching the Tower Bridge lift is an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of London’s rich maritime heritage. 

There you have it – a comprehensive list of free things to do in London based on my own experiences. I hope you found it helpful and inspiring for your trip planning!

If you have any questions or need a personalised itinerary for your London trip, feel free to get in touch with me at theveggietravels@gmail.com . I’m here to help make your London adventure unforgettable!

FAQs

1. Are there any free events or festivals that happen regularly in London that I should know about?

Yes, London has several free events and festivals throughout the year. Keep an eye out for events like the Notting Hill Carnival, London Open House weekend, and the Mayor’s Thames Festival. Hyde Park often hosts free concerts and events, especially during the summer months.

2. What are some other top free things to do in London apart from the places mentioned?

Here are some other free things to do in London, England:

• Visit Greenwich Park
• Take a Stroll along the Thames Path
• Explore the British Library
• Attend a service at St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Wander through Camden Market

3. How do I spend a day in London for free?

Start your day with a visit to Hyde Park or Regent’s Park for a morning stroll or picnic. Spend the afternoon exploring the South Bank of the Thames, where you can walk along the river, visit the Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre for free exhibitions, and enjoy street performances. Don’t miss the views from Millennium Bridge and the vibrant atmosphere of Borough Market. For more ideas and information about free activities in London, check out tourism websites, local guides, and event listings. Websites like Visit London and Time Out London often feature lists of free things to do and special events happening in the city.