What can you do in London without spending a penny? Plenty. From museum visits to strolls through parks, we found ten of the best completely free things worth doing on your trip to the English capital.
Undeniably London is one of the most beautiful and distinctive cities in the world. What to marvel at first? The world-class museums, the dazzling architecture, the gorgeous parks, the bustling streets with hundreds of shops?
A getaway to the English capital may sound expensive, but there are plenty of things you can do without spending a penny. Yes, there are free attractionsin London that you shouldnt miss. So, we found 10 of the best completely free things worth adding to your list.
10 free ways to discover London
Tate Modern
In 2000, the former power station was transformed and has since become one of the citys most beloved sights. At the Tate Modern you can enjoy the permanent collection - which includes works by Pollock, Warhol, Matisse and Picasso - completely free. After finishing your tour of the art collections, take the elevator to the top level to soak up a 360-degree panoramic view of Londons skyline.
British Museum
The British Museum is a must for most travelers visiting London - and its completely free. Its collections are among the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Notably, the 80,000 objects on display represent only 1% of the items the museum holds.
Borough Market
Londons famed, historic food market is packed with delicious treats from every corner of the globe. Borough Markethas everything you need for an unforgettable breakfast or lunch, and its also a great place for a leisurely wander with free tastings. Aim to visit on weekdays, as Saturdays get very crowded.
Kensington Gardens
The glorious Kensington Gardens are home to the Albert Memorial, the Peter Pan Statue, the Serpentine Gallery, the Round Pond and the Diana Memorial Playground. All are free to visit. When youre done with the sights, you can amble along the tree-lined paths that crisscross the park. Of course, London has countless parks where you can unwind.East and north of Kensington Gardens, youll find Regents Park, Hyde Park, Green Park and St Jamess Park.
Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is one of the most spectacular shows London offers visitors. The impressive ceremony takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 11 in the morning outside Buckingham Palace. You cant miss it! Make sure youre there at least 45 minutes early to secure a spot with a good view.
Natural History Museum
A stroll through Londons Natural History Museumwill certainly excite you. Housed in a building of distinctive architecture, it boasts a vast collection (around 80 million objects) of great historical and scientific value, spanning fields such as botany, entomology, mineralogy, paleontology and zoology. The dinosaur skeletons are among the most popular exhibits.
Science Museum
Take the family for an enlightening visit to the Science Museum (Science Museum), in South Kensington, which also has free admission. Founded in 1857, it is now one of the citys major attractions, with over 3 million visitors a year.The Energy Hall showcases the earliest steam engines, dating from the early 19th century, while the third-floor exhibits, which include old gliders, hot-air balloons and flight simulators, are particularly popular with children.
Victoria & Albert Museum
The V&A(Victoria & Albert Museum)is a pioneering museum with an impressive collection of 4.5 million objects. It is considered the largest and most comprehensive museum of decorative arts in the world. Its exhibits range from sculpture, ceramics, striking Japanese weapons and Asian treasures to contemporary haute couture.
Museum of London
Many tourists overlook it, but its one of the citys most noteworthy museums. A visit to the Museum of London will give you the chance to learn many fascinating things about the citys history and development. After your tour, sit down at its lovely café.
Sky Garden
Access to the Sky Garden - Londons highest public garden, on the top floor of the Walkie Talkie, at 20 Fenchurch Street - is free until 18:00 on weekdays and 21:00 on weekends. The observation decks and restaurants on the top three floors perhaps offer the best elevated views of central London.
