Visiting some of the most iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Big Ben are some of the must-see attractions for all tourists. With some of the most iconic parks and gardens like Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, Green Park, and Regent’s Park, London has some of the most beautiful green spaces in the world. And, who can forget the renowned London Eye, the world’s largest ferris wheel, which is a must-visit attraction for all tourists. There are also plenty of street performances and theatre performances that can be enjoyed at no cost. Thus, London is truly a city that offers something for everyone, regardless of their budget.
10 Free Things To Do In London In 2023
To know what can you do in London without spending a penny, take a peek at this list of the ten extraordinary ones:
- British Museum
- Houses of Parliament
- Greenwich Park
- Explore Streets
- Attend the Change of Guard
- Borough Market
- Museum of London
- Kensington Gardens
- Sky Garden
- Science Museum
1. British Museum
Apart from the world-famous collection on display, the British Museum also hosts a range of educational activities, from lectures and talks to workshops and special events. It also has a dedicated learning centre, where visitors can learn about the history of the Museum and its collections. There is also a library, where researchers can access the Museum’s vast collection of books, journals and archives. With so much to explore, the British Museum is a must-visit for any visitor to London.
Location: Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG, United Kingdom
Timings: 10 AM to 8:30 PM
2. Houses of Parliament
The Palace of Westminster is a fascinating place for visitors, as it is steeped in history and is home to many important political decisions. Tourists can take a guided tour of the palace and its grounds, and learn more about the history of the UK’s parliamentary democracy. The House of Commons and the House of Lords are open to the public, and visitors can also take a seat in the public galleries to witness the debates and proceedings. A trip to this iconic building is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Location: Westminster; London
Timings: 10 AM to 4 PM
3. Greenwich Park
The park is surrounded by beautiful gardens, making it an ideal place to take a stroll and take in the views. For those who want to explore the park further, there is plenty to do, including exploring the historic Royal Observatory, the home of Greenwich Mean Time, the National Maritime Museum, the Queen’s House, and the beautiful National Maritime Aquarium. There are also numerous sports and recreational activities such as tennis, cricket, boating, and wildlife spotting. The park is also home to various wildlife species such as foxes, deer, and birds, making it a great place to take a walk and observe nature. So if you’re looking for a place to relax and take in the beautiful views of London, then Greenwich Park is definitely the place to be.
Location: London SE10 8EJ, United Kingdom
Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM
4. Explore Streets
You should also make sure to check out the murals in the Hackney Wick area, as well as all the street art in Southbank and Camden. All these artworks show a unique side of London and are perfect for Instagram posts. And don’t forget to explore the street art in the lesser-known areas like Peckham, Brixton, and Deptford. There you will find amazing artworks that will make your Instagram feed really stand out.
Location: London
Timings: Throughout the day
5. Attend the Change of Guard
The changing of the guard takes around 45 minutes and is a must-watch event. The soldiers guard the Palace in their famous red uniforms and bearskins hats. It is an awe-inspiring display of military precision with the band playing iconic tunes like ‘God Save the Queen’. The ceremony also features the guards being inspected and the regimental flag being exchanged. The changing of the guard is an event that is steeped in tradition and history, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors to London.
Location: Buckingham Palace
Timings: 11 AM (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday)
6. Borough Market
The market is also home to a variety of different cultures, with people from all walks of life coming together to celebrate the delicious food and vibrant atmosphere. You can find a variety of street performers, artisans, and other vendors selling their wares. With such a diverse array of offerings, you never know what you might find! Whether you’re looking for some delicious international cuisine or just a fun day out, a trip to the 1000-year-old food market is a must-do activity.
Location: Southwark, London
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
7. Museum of London
The Museum of London also houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the Roman era, which includes a large collection of coins and jewelry. There are also interactive displays and activities that help visitors learn more about the history of the city and its people. Visitors can also experience the sights and sounds of London’s past through interactive audio and visual displays. The museum also offers educational programs and lectures to help visitors gain insight into London’s rich history.
Location: Barbican Centre
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
8. Kensington Gardens
The various parks are also home to various sports and recreational activities like rowing, boating, swimming, cycling, horse-riding, and more. You can even find a cricket pitch or two in the parks. All these activities make the Kensington Gardens a great place to take a few hours off and relax. For the more adventurous, you can also explore the nearby Kensington Palace, the Albert and Victoria Museum, and the Natural History Museum. The Kensington Gardens provide a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of London life and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Location: Park Lane
Timings: 6 AM – 9:30 PM
9. Sky Garden
The building is also home to several restaurants, bars, and cafes that provide a range of delicious cuisines to choose from. The view from the top of the building is a sight to behold, offering a 360-degree panoramic view of the city and its skyline. On a clear day, visitors can see as far as the Shard, the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament. The building also has a sky garden, offering a lush green respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Location: 20 Fenchurch Street, Two Elms
Timings: 7 AM – 11 PM
10. Science Museum
The museum also features a range of interactive exhibits and activities, including a 4D theatre experience and a planetarium. Their popular Launchpad gallery is the perfect place for children to explore the world of engineering and get their hands-on with a range of interactive exhibits. The museum also offers a range of events and activities for people of all ages. From talks and lectures to workshops, family activities, and even a night at the museum, the Science Museum is an ideal day out for the whole family.
Location: Kensington
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Experience the beauty of London – its architecture, art, culture and history – by taking a stroll in one of its many iconic parks or gardens. See the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, or even take a boat ride down the River Thames. Take in a show in the West End, or explore the many markets and shops. Visit a museum or gallery, and take in the history and art of the city. There are plenty of options to keep you busy and entertained.
