14 Things to do for Free in London—From Museums to Walking Tours

Tower Bridge in London
Tower Bridge in London (Photo by Benjamin Davies on Unsplash)

Whether you viewing the sights of the city from atop the Eye or gazing up at the famous Big Ben, there’s no shortage of things to see in London, come rain or shine. What's more, many of its top tourist sights are free. These must-see attractions don't cost a penny:

things to do for free London infographic

Walk Through History—Free London Museums

London has an array of fantastic museums and art galleries—many of which are free. History and archaeology lovers looking to get a head start on free London, the British Museum is a must-see, home to iconic Greek and Egyptian artifacts. It houses relics such as the Rosetta Stone and has real Samurai armor on display. 

Art aficionados should head to the famous National Gallery, for classic masterpieces by Van Gogh and Diego Velazquez among many others. Those with a taste for the cutting edge in modern art should add a stop at the Tate Modern

Looking for historic places closer to home? Read: U.S. Historical Places to Visit with Kids or Grandkids

Outdoors and Walking Tours

London is one of the greenest cities in Europe, with parks so expansive that you can easily forget you're in a bustling city. In addition to exploring free London museums, you can head to Richmond Park to spot deer or marvel at the giant Pagoda in Battersea Park. If you're in search of local entertainment on your free London tour, Hyde Park and Regent's Park often host concerts, outdoor theatre productions, and events, so why not see what's on and pack a picnic?

Visiting London in the summer? Canada Square Park hosts a number of music concerts in the Canary Wharf financial district all summer long. 

Also read: 6 of the World’s Most Beautiful Botanical Gardens

Browse the Markets

There's a market for everyone in London and they’re free to browse. Portobello Market is famous for antiques and collectibles, Borough Market sells delicious food and produce and Columbia Road Market is the one for you if you love flowers and plants!

Learn more: How travel insurance works with universal healthcare

Free London Attractions for Travelers with Kids

Travelers with kids will love the Science Museum which offers hands-on and interactive displays. Ever dream of being a kid again? The V & A Museum of Childhood has collections of toys dating all the way back to the 1600s. Finish off your free London tour with a stop at the Grant Museum of Zoology, where kids and adults alike can learn all about the menagerie of animals on our planet.

Apps for Do-it-Yourself Sightseeing

London is dripping with history at every corner. From the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace, to everything in between. Why not download a history app and go on a self-guided free London walking tour? Take a look at StrollOn or VoiceMap for audio tour guides. There a tons of things to do for free in London and you can find more with those apps. 

How Globetrotters Travel Smarter

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