Samuel Johnson once said, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.” We couldn’t agree more. Voted by consultancy group, Resonance, as the best city in the world for the fifth year running in 2021, it’s little wonder London topped the list again with so much to see and do. A huge city filled with unique pockets, each with their own charm, locals and visitors alike are never left hard-pressed to find the perfect activity.
From the colourful streets of Notting Hill and buzzing markets across the city to a plethora of museums and galleries that won’t cost you a penny, London is never short on free things to do. If it’s green space you’re looking for, London is made up of 40% public green space with more than 3,000 parks spread across the city. A hive of activity in every season, here are 33 free things to do in London.
Free Green Spaces in London
Barbican Conservatory
A leafy sanctuary in the centre of London, the Barbican Conservatory is home to some 1,500 species of tropical plants. A unique blend of indoor rainforest-meets-brutalist concrete jungle, you can indulge in a few hours of peace surrounded by vines tumbling over concrete balconies or the arid house filled with an impressive cacti and succulent collection.
Greenwich Park
Set in Southeast London, Greenwich Park is one of the city’s Royal Parks and also a listed World Heritage Site. Lined with delicate pink cherry blossoms in early spring, verdant leafy green in summer, and kissed by touches of rust and gold through autumn, every season is a delight. Home to the Greenwich Observatory and the Prime Meridian Line, it’s easy to spend an entire day here.
Sky Garden
If views and green space are your thing, Sky Garden is the dream. Gracing the top floor of the Walkie Talkie building, a stepped garden space can be enjoyed while taking in sweeping views across London’s skyline. Housing a restaurant and cafe, you can slowly soak up your surroundings, with ceiling to floor windows ensuring your views remain uninterrupted.
Richmond Park
Almost 10km2 of parkland is complemented by this Royal Park’s fan-favourite inhabitants. Richmond Park is home to more than 600 free-roaming red and fallow deer who have occupied the area since the 17th century. Hire a bike, pack a picnic, and see if you can spot Bambi and Co!
Hampstead Heath
The woodlands and meadows of Hampstead Heath feel a world away from the busy streets of Central London, despite being tucked away in Zone 2 of the city’s north. Be sure to spend time perusing the Garden Hill and Pergola, Kenwood House, and if the weather permits, take a dip in the swimming ponds.
Hyde Park
The largest of London’s Royal Parks, at a whopping 142 hectares, Hyde Park is England’s answer to New York’s Central Park. Walk, cycle, and picnic your way around the green space, watch the local squirrels hop along from tree to tree, or enjoy a swim in the Serpentine Lido in summer. Hyde park is always a crowd favourite.
Holland Park
On the western edge of Central London, Holland Park is a beautiful space filled with delightful gardens. The perfect place to take a breather from city life and enjoy springtime in London, the Kyoto Garden is exceptionally beautiful as the leaves of the Japanese Maples change colour in autumn.
Free Walking Paths and Trails in London
Riverside at Southbank
A stroll alongside the Thames is an excellent way to spend an afternoon. Stretching from the bank opposite the Houses of Parliament to Tower Bridge, the walk will take 1-2 hours. Including a number of key highlights, from Big Ben and The London Eye to Gabriel’s wharf, Southbank is a must-do while in London.
Little Venice
The two-mile stretch from Little Venice to Camden takes you canalside as you pass by London ZSL Zoo, Regent’s Park, and the private gardens of London residents. What feels like a behind the scenes glimpse at local London life, this is a fantastic, easy walk in London’s north.
Epping Forest
Looking for a break from the central city buzz? The trails of Epping Forest will provide respite and get you back to nature. This is the closest you’ll get to a proper hike in London, but there are a number of shorter trails if you’re simply looking for a leisurely stroll.
Parkland Walk
Following a former railway line from Finsbury Park to Alexandra Palace, this 4km linear trail is the perfect place to see wildlife in abundance, close to the city centre. The Parkland Walk is one of London’s better-known walking sites, passing through several North London neighbourhoods.
Incredible Free Views in London
OXO Tower viewing platform
While sites like The Shard charge for entry to excellent views across London’s skyline, this hidden gem gives you access to the cityscape vistas without the price tag. On the 8th floor of the OXO Tower, the observation deck is sidled up to the Millennium Bridge and across the river from St. Paul’s.
Primrose Hill
Compared to other cities, London is relatively flat, which means most views are set atop buildings. Primrose Hill is one of the six protected viewpoints of London, with trees kept low so the views are not obstructed. When you’re done taking in the sights, head down to a local pub for a pint.
Alexandra Palace
Affectionately known as ‘Ally Pally’ by the locals, this Grade II listed building is a key entertainment venue nowadays. Great for views all year round, it serves as one of London’s most popular locations for New Years fireworks and Guy Fawkes night bonfire events. Our pick? Pack snacks and enjoy a summer sunset; you won’t regret it.
One New Change
If you’re looking for the best views of St. Paul’s Cathedral, One New Change is a stunning roof terrace with uninterrupted views of the dome. While most roof terraces across the capital will set you back a pretty penny, you won’t need to spend a thing to access one of the best.
Free Museums and Galleries in London
Victoria & Albert Museum
Housing more than 2.2 million items, the V&A is one of the world’s largest museums. Focused on design, decorative arts, and sculpture, the permanent collections are completely free to browse. If you fancy paying a visit to one of the temporary exhibitions, they vary greatly throughout the year and range from music to the arts and more.
Tate Modern and Tate Britain
Part of four connected museums, the two London arms of the Tate feature a collection of contemporary and modern art. Set on the banks of the Thames, you can gaze at works from modern artists including Matisse, Picasso, Dalí, Pollock, Warhol and Bourgeois. Perfect for art lovers, it’s also a great rainy-day activity.
National Gallery
Ideally positioned in the heart of Trafalgar Square, you can tick off two free activities with a visit to the National Gallery. If artworks spanning centuries take your fancy over modern additions to the art world, this is the gallery for you. You’ll find one of the best collections of paintings inside this brilliant curation.
Natural History Museum
Dinosaur bones, taxidermy specimens, human evolution, and more are all on show at the Natural History Museum. Popular with audiences young and old, the collections on display are fascinating. They also host the annual “Wildlife Photographer of the Year” exhibition if you fancy a paid add-on.
Wallace Collection
One of London’s underrated galleries, the Wallace Collection is conveniently located in Central London, just a short walk from Oxford and Baker streets. Acquired by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace during the 18th and 19th centuries, it features 28 rooms full of sculptures, paintings, furniture, armour, and porcelain.
Imperial War Museum
Dedicated to collections showcasing the history of those who spent their time on the frontlines, the Imperial War Museum offers a comprehensive collection from a number of battles, most notably the first and second World Wars. Including a spitfire aircraft within the museum, two giant naval guns out front, and its famous holocaust exhibit, it’s an excellently presented look at wartime history.
Free Markets in London
Borough Market
Just a stone’s throw from London Bridge, Borough Market’s indoor-meets-outdoor style makes way for artisan culinary suppliers and locally produced goods. The site dates back to the 12th century and is one of London’s largest and oldest food markets. Grab lunch, a coffee to go, and some fresh veg and a steaming loaf fresh from the oven for later.
Brick Lane Market
Sundays are best spent at Brick Lane Market. Vendors hawk secondhand goods, international cuisine, and handmade pieces, all to the soundtrack of street performers in a lively atmosphere. You’ll also find the famous Beigel Bake nearby, a must-have while in London.
Portobello Road Market
You’ll find yourself among a treasure trove of antiques dealers selling thousands of collectible trinkets at this market in West London. Running almost the entire length of Notting Hill, visitors can find everything from one-off antique finds to a wealth of international cuisine, vintage clothing, and more.
Camden Market
A market as eclectic as the neighbourhood it resides in, Camden Market is perfectly positioned beside the Regent’s Canal. Curiosities of all sorts have made this corner particularly popular with teens and tourists, as well as its roots with the punk scene that are still present today. Fashion, food, and artistic fare are all on offer by Camden Lock.
Columbia Road Flower Market
Green thumbed friends rejoice! This plant and flower market, hosted every Sunday, is filled with vendors of the leafy variety. Seasonal blooms, popular house plants, and a variety of herbs and shrubs are on offer. Skirted by Victorian storefronts on either side, you’ll find cute cafes, small galleries, and antique shops.
Free Landmarks in London
Buckingham Palace
Have you even been to London if you haven’t spent time out the front of Buckingham Palace? While the official residence of Her Majesty The Queen, the real show here is the changing of the guard. Watching the procession of one guard handing to the other is a must-do when in the British capital; it comes with a brass band and all.
The British Library
The world’s largest library by catalogued items, you’ll be impressed by the British Library’s collection, whether you’re into books or not. The library also hosts exhibitions and events throughout the year, but if you just want to spend some time whittling away an afternoon reading, we’re pretty sure you’ll love it for exactly that.
Street art in East London
London is known for its array of street art, with famous works from Guerilla artist, Banksy, to locally commissioned works, all part of the DNA of the city. While there are a number of locations across London, the East hosts a huge collection to explore. Get started with King John Court / New Inn Yard, Great Eastern Street, and Whitby Street, but let your feet guide you to discover plenty more.
God’s Own Junkyard
A neon wonderland, God’s Own Junkyard offers a psychedelic collection of brightly lit signs that would put the streets of Tokyo to shame. Including the Rolling Scones cafe inside, you could truly get lost in here for hours as you peruse the vibrant interior of this new-age gallery.
Harry Potter highlights
Potterheads unite! Fans of the iconic series won’t be able to resist snapping themselves in the locations from the movies as they’re peppered throughout London. From Platform 9¾ in King’s Cross and Millennium Bridge to Leadenhall Market and Westminster Tube station, there’s no shortage of sites to have your own HP moment!
St. Dunstan in the East
Where a Grade I listed church originally constructed around 1100 c.e. once stood, now remain the fragments that still stand after it was destroyed during the Blitz in 1941. The ruins have been turned into a public garden, with greenery draped over the walls creating a green oasis hidden among the streets of Central London. This is a truly unique space.
The colourful houses of Chelsea and Notting Hill
London is known for its many pockets, some of which have graced our screens in famous films for decades. From the stately-looking homes of Chelsea and Kensington to the colourful mews of Notting Hill, you can easily spend a day just adoring the best and brightest. Our top picks are Bayswater Street in Chelsea, and Farm Place and Lancaster Road in Notting Hill.