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

Also read: Free Things to do in Rome - Museums, Parks, Walking Tours and More

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

Free Outdoor Activities & Parks in London

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

Free Markets to Explore in London

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 Things to Do in London 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.

Also read:
• Why Travel Insurance is a Smart Decision for a European Vacation
• Travel Europe by Train: The Fastest, Most Scenic and Popular Routes

Self-Guided Walking Tours & Apps

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. 

Why Travel Protection Matters for London Trips

When you’re exploring the world, smart travelers know that life can happen and travel insurance can help when problems arise. Issues can come up before travelers even land on Europe’s shores. Trips can be canceled or interrupted because of illness, flights can be late or connections can be missed, and luggage can get lost, damaged or delayed. While most travelers arrive across the pond unscathed, trouble may be lurking at the next tourist destination, sidewalk café or local pub. 

From our Medical and Dental coverage to our lost luggage and passport assistance, our protection plans include a deep breath of the coverages and services that international travelers may need. After all, when you’re having the time of your life, the last thing you want to do is slow down.