London is often considered one of the most expensive cities in the world. Yet, it's also one of the most generous! Between its world-class museums accessible without spending a penny, its royal parks, and its breathtaking panoramas, it's entirely possible to have a royal experience on a commoner's budget.
Discover our selection of 10 best free things to do in London for your next stay.
Also read our complete guide to experiencing London in 3 days!
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Top 10 free activities
1. Take to the skies at the Sky Garden
This is undoubtedly the best-kept (and highest-ranking) secret in the City. Sky Garden It offers a 360° panoramic view of London from the 35th floor of the “Walkie Talkie”. You will find a lush public garden and an incredible observation deck.
Guidly's tip: Entry is free, but booking is mandatory on their official website approximately 3 weeks in advance. Time slots fill up very quickly!
✨ The Premium Experience: The Sky Garden is superb, but if you want to see London from the highest peak in Europe without the stress of booking, Book your ticket for The Shard here. The view at sunset is incomparable.
2. Step back in time at the British Museum
It's impossible to miss. This museum houses world treasures like the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon Marbles. It's a journey through 2 million years of history, all under a magnificent glass dome.
Don't miss it: The Ancient Egypt section and its mummies.
💡 Guidly's tip: The museums are free, but they're huge! To make sure you don't miss out on the secrets of the Rosetta Stone, we recommend this Guided tour of the British Museum in French. A valuable time saver to see what's essential.
3. Admire the Changing of the Guard
It's the unmissable event for British folklore. In front Buckingham Palace, witness the spectacle of the guards in red tunics and bearskin caps to the rhythm of military bands.
When ? Usually at 11am, several times a week. Check the schedule the day before on the official army website.
4. An artistic immersion at the Tate Modern
Located in a former power station on the south shore, the Tate Modern It is a temple of contemporary art. Even if you are not an art enthusiast, the building's architecture and the "Turbine Hall" are worth a visit.
The little extra: Go up to the 10th floor of the extension Blavatnik Building for a free view of St. Paul's Cathedral.
5. Get lost in the markets of Camden and Borough Market
London wouldn't be London without its markets.
Camden Market: For the punk, alternative vibe and street art.
Borough Market: A gourmet's paradise. You can often enjoy free samples of cheese or artisanal products there.
6. Escape to the Royal Parks
Need some fresh air? London has over 40,130 hectares of green spaces.
Hyde Park: To see the “Speaker's Corner”.
St James's Park: For the best view of the palace and to greet the resident pelicans.
Richmond Park: To observe deer in the wild (a little out of the way but magical).
7. Journey through history at the Museum of London Docklands
Often overlooked by tourists, this museum located at West India Quay tells the story of the Port of London, from slavery to the construction of the Canary Wharf skyscrapers. It's interactive and fascinating for families.
8. Discover Street Art in Shoreditch
The East London district is an open-air gallery. Take a walk around Brick Lane and Shoreditch High Street to admire works by Banksy, Roa or Shepard Fairey.
Guidly's tip: Get lost in the small alleyways perpendicular to Brick Lane, that's where the most beautiful ephemeral gems are hidden.
The “Ghost Tour” or Guided Street Art Tour
While the walk itself is free, having a guide who recounts the bloody anecdotes of Jack the Ripper or the secrets of Banksy costs only about €15 to €20.
Where to insert it? At the end of the section on Shoreditch or Camden.
Hook: “Street art is beautiful, but understanding the hidden message behind each work with an expert is even better!”
Suggested link: London: Guided walking tour of street art and graffiti
9. Traveling in space at the Science Museum
Located in South Kensington, it's a paradise for children (and adults). Between the real space modules and the interactive experiences, you can spend half a day there without spending a single euro.
Note: Advance booking of a free ticket is required.
10. Admire the sunset at Primrose Hill
To end your day in style, climb to the top of the hill Primrose Hill. You will have an unobstructed view of the London skyline (The Shard, the London Eye, the City) in a chic and relaxed picnic atmosphere.
Enjoy personalized audio guides and tailor-made itineraries so you don't miss a thing at these exceptional destinations with Guidly
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Essential items at low prices
Want to enhance your stay? If you have a bit of a budget, here are 3 experiences that our readers love:
The London Eye : For the iconic photo above the Thames.
Thames River Cruise (Hop-on Hop-off) : The best way to see all the monuments without walking.
Explore the city with Guidly, anywhere in London, you have interactive and personalized audio guides for 10 times less than a classic tour.
Conclusion: London is yours!
As you can see, enjoying the British capital doesn't necessarily require a fat wallet. By combining culture, nature, and spectacular views, you can discover the essence of London for free.
FAQ
Is the subway free for children in London?
Good news: public transport (metro and buses) is free for children under 11, provided they are accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket. This represents a major saving for families.
When is the best time to visit the Sky Garden for free?
Free tickets are released online every Monday for the next two or three weeks. To enjoy the best light, try to book a time slot about an hour before sunset. If it's full, please note that the garden The Lookout a similar free alternative is available nearby.
How to pay for transport in London without an Oyster card
No need to buy an Oyster card anymore! You can use your contactless bank card or your phone (Apple Pay/Google Pay) directly at the yellow ticket machines in the Tube and on buses. The fare is the same and capped per day, which is very advantageous.
Is it possible to enter Westminster Abbey or St. Paul's Cathedral for free?
Tourist entry is charged and quite expensive. However, you can enter for free if you attend a religious service (like the famous Evensong at the end of the day). You will not be able to visit all the royal tombs, but you will be able to admire the architecture and listen to the exceptional choirs.
