50 Free Things to Do in London
World-class museums, sweeping parks and hidden corners — you don't need to spend a penny to enjoy the capital.
Free world-class museums
London is home to some of the finest free museums on earth. The British Museum, Natural History Museum, Science Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum, National Gallery and Tate Modern all offer free general admission. You could spend days exploring their permanent collections without paying anything, from ancient Egyptian artefacts to modern masterpieces.
Royal parks and green spaces
The eight Royal Parks — including Hyde Park, Regent's Park, Richmond Park and Greenwich Park — are free to enter and perfect for walks, picnics and wildlife spotting. Watch deer roam in Richmond, admire the roses in Regent's Park, or climb Primrose Hill for one of the best free views in the city.
Walk the city
Some of London's best sights are simply there to be enjoyed on foot. Stroll along the South Bank past the London Eye and Tate Modern, cross the Millennium Bridge to St Paul's, wander the historic lanes of the City, or follow the Regent's Canal towpath from Little Venice to Camden. Self-guided walks reveal the city's layered history for free.
Markets and neighbourhoods
Browsing London's markets costs nothing and offers a real taste of local life. Explore the flower stalls of Columbia Road, the antiques of Portobello, or the food aromas of Borough Market. Neighbourhood-hopping — from Soho to Shoreditch to Notting Hill — is a free day out in itself.
Free views and free events
Skip the paid observation decks and head to free viewpoints like the Sky Garden (book a free slot in advance) or Parliament Hill on Hampstead Heath. Throughout the year, London hosts free festivals, outdoor performances, gallery late nights and Changing of the Guard ceremonies at Buckingham Palace.
Planning your free day
Many museums stay open late one evening a week with special free events, and parks are at their best in early morning light. Check opening times in advance, wear comfortable shoes, and combine nearby attractions to make the most of each area. With a little planning, a day in London can cost nothing but your travel.
