25+ Free Things to Do in London: Museums, Parks & Instagrammable Views
Looking for free things to do in London? Whether you’re planning your first trip to the city or returning for another visit, there’s no shortage of sights to see without spending a fortune. London is known for its world-class museums, historic landmarks, and lively neighborhoods. Many are completely free to visit.
From beautiful green spaces to free exhibits, there are plenty of ways to experience London on a budget. Here are 25 free things to do in London:
Free Parks & Gardens in London
St. Dunstan in the East Church Garden: This peaceful garden is set inside the ruins of a medieval church hidden in the city. The church was damaged during the Blitz, and the remaining ruins were turned into a public garden in the 1970s. St. Dunstan in the East is the perfect escape from the busy streets of London.
Hyde Park: This is one of London’s most famous green spaces, and a great place to take an afternoon walk. You can relax by the Serpentine or explore the Rose Garden. Admission to Hyde Park is free, but some attractions and activities may have a fee.
Regent’s Park: This park has wide walking paths, landscaped gardens and plenty of open space in the heart of the city. You can wander through the park for free or visit Queen Mary’s Gardens, home to one of the largest collections of roses in London.
Primrose Hill: One of the most recognizable views of the London skyline can be captured from the top of Primrose Hill. Climb to the top of the hill at sunset for the best views.
Primrose Hill by Elliot Voilmy/Unsplash Hampstead Heath: This sprawling green space is known for its wooded paths and panoramic views of the city. Hampstead Heath is a great place to spend a few hours outdoors without leaving London.
Holland Park: This is a quieter alternative to some of London’s other parks. Holland Park has woodland paths and peaceful areas to explore. The park is free to enter, but some attractions and events may have fees.
Greenwich Park: This Royal Park has beautiful gardens and lots of open green space. Greenwich Park is the perfect place to take a walk and catch views of the London skyline.
St. James’s Park: This park is located between Buckingham Palace and Westminster, and it's one of the easiest attractions to add to your central London itinerary. Walk around the lake and look out for the park's famous pelicans as you admire the gardens.
St. James's Park by Sebastian Fränkle/Unsplash Victoria Embankment Gardens: This small garden is a peaceful place to take a break while sightseeing in central London. Victoria Embankment Gardens is convenient if you’re already exploring Westminster, the South Bank or the Strand.
Trafalgar Square: Trafalgar Square is one of London’s most recognizable public spaces, and another spot that’s easy to add to your central London itinerary. Take a picture at Nelson’s Column and the fountains, and take in the surrounding architecture before exploring the National Gallery behind the square.
Free Museums & Galleries in London
National Gallery: The National Gallery is located next to Trafalgar Square and is home to a collection of Western European paintings from artists including Van Gogh and Rembrandt. General admission is free, but some exhibits may require tickets.
National Gallery by Stefanos Nt/Unsplash British Museum: Explore thousands of years of history at this museum. The British Museum has everything from Egyptian artifacts to Roman antiquities. General admission is free, but some temporary exhibits and events require tickets.
Tate Modern: This museum, located in a former power station on the South Bank, is the best spot to see modern and contemporary art. General admission to the main collection is free.
Tate Britain: Tate Britain features centuries of historic and contemporary British art. The permanent collection is free to visit, but some exhibits require tickets.
Victoria and Albert Museum: The V&A is a must-see for anyone interested in fashion, design, jewelry, and sculpture. General admission is free, but some exhibits and events require tickets.
Victoria & Albert Museum by Amy-Leigh Barnard/Unsplash National Portrait Gallery: The National Portrait Gallery, located near Trafalgar Square, features portraits of notable historic and cultural figures. General admission is free.
Science Museum: This museum explores everything from space travel to engineering and medicine. General admission is free, but some exhibits and screenings require tickets.
Scenic Walks & Neighborhoods to Explore in London
Walk Across Tower Bridge: You don’t have to pay for the Tower Bridge experience to see the famous landmark. Walk across the Tower Bridge for free and capture beautiful views of the River Thames. Access to the towers and high walkways requires a ticket.
Tower Bridge by Charles Postiaux/Unsplash South Bank: Take a walk along the South Bank of the River Thames to see landmarks, street performers and views of the London Skyline. This area is perfect for free sightseeing while you walk between Tate Modern and Westminster.
Covent Garden: You don’t have to spend money at Covent Garden to enjoy the historic piazza. Watch street performers or explore the surrounding streets, like colorful Neal’s Yard.
Soho: Spend an afternoon wandering Soho’s lively streets and explore colorful storefronts, historic pubs, and niche shops. You can easily explore the neighborhood for free and stop for food or drinks if something catches your eye.
Notting Hill: Explore colorful streets, independent shops, and iconic architecture in Notting Hill without spending a dime. If you visit on a market day, browse stalls along Portobello Road.
Notting Hill by Gilley Aguilar/Unsplash Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace: Catch one of London’s most famous royal traditions for free. The changing of the guard takes place on scheduled days throughout the year. You can see it from public areas around Buckingham Palace and along the route. Check the official schedule before planning your visit.
Sky Garden: Some of the best free views of London can be captured from the Sky Garden. The landscaped indoor garden is located on the 43rd floor of the Walkie Talkie building. Entry is free, but capacity can be limited, so reserve tickets online in advance.
Little Venice: Take a peaceful walk along the canals in Little Venice. Watch the narrowboats and check out waterside cafés while you explore leafy paths. Continue along the Regent’s Canal toward Paddington or Camden if you want a longer scenic walk.
Millennium Bridge: Walk across Millennium Bridge to capture a unique view of the River Thames with St. Paul’s Cathedral on one side and Tate Modern on the other. The pedestrian bridge also connects some of central London’s biggest attractions.
Chelsea & Knightsbridge: Browse boutiques as you explore two of London’s upscale neighborhoods. Wander along King’s Road or take in the elegant architecture and streetscapes in Knightsbridge without spending a dime.
Save this list for your next London trip, pick a few spots that catch your eye, and leave some room to wander. You never know what you’ll discover along the way.
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