Here are the 15 best things to do in London for free for locals and visitors
When I first moved to London, I thought having fun here meant spending half my paycheck on brunch and entry fees.
But after a few broke weekends, I started digging around for things to do that didn’t cost a thing. And honestly, that’s when I fell in love with the city.
From free galleries and museums to parks, there’s a whole side of London that’s easy on the wallet and still seriously fun. If you’re looking to explore without spending much (or anything at all), here are some of my favourite free things to do around town.
Outdoor things to do in London for free
1. Spot pelicans in St James Park
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Address: St James Park, Westminster, Central London
Contact details: +44 300 061 2350
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 5 AM – 12 AM
What makes St James Park extra special are the pelicans. You can often spot them sunning themselves on the rocks or waddling near Duck Island.
Beyond the pelicans, the park itself is just stunning. There are tons of birds, like ducks, swans, and even a black swan if you’re lucky. In spring, the flowerbeds are full of colour, and squirrels are darting around everywhere.
One of the best things here was standing on the Blue Bridge. From there, you get this incredible view of the lake with Buckingham Palace straight ahead, Big Ben to the left, and the London Eye in the background.
Pro tip:
Try to arrive around 2:30 PM for pelican feeding time. It’s a fun and surprising sight you won’t want to miss.
2. Cycle through Regent’s Park
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Address: Regent’s Park
Contact details: +44 300 061 2300
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 5 AM – 4:30 PM
The loop around Regent’s Park (the Outer Circle) is flat, smooth, and about 4.4 km long. It’s perfect whether you’re doing training laps or just out for a leisurely spin.
I usually go around 6:30 AM since it’s pretty much just cyclists during that time. There are no cars, no crowds, but just the sound of wheels and birdsong.
What I loved most here was that the scenery actually changes as you ride. One minute, you’re passing regal old buildings, the next you’re gliding by green lawns and the sound of the birds near the lake.
There’s also a little detour to Primrose Hill. The climb up is short but steep enough to get your heart rate up, and the view at the top is absolutely worth it.
Pro tip:
Lock your bike and take a slow stroll at Queen Mary’s Gardens. June and July are especially stunning with thousands of roses in bloom.
3. Have an afternoon picnic at Clissold Park
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Address: Green Lanes
Contact details: +44 20 8356 3000
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Clissold Park is big enough that you can find your own calm spot, even when it’s busy.
I laid out my blanket near the lake, which is close enough to watch the ducks and swans glide by but far from the crowds around the playground. If you prefer shade, there are wooded areas too.
It’s nice here because there are so many things to do without spending a penny. During my visit, I wandered over to the animal enclosures, which have actual deer and goats.
Pro tip:
If you’re coming with children, don’t miss the splash pad (open in summer) and the big playground. The splash pad can get very busy, especially on hot days, so go earlier or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
4. Hike across the diverse terrains of Hampstead Heath
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Address: Hampstead Heath
Contact details: +44 20 7332 3322
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
If you’re after a proper nature escape without actually leaving London, Hampstead Heath is hands down one of the best spots I’ve explored.
The walk starts at Hampstead Underground Station. Right away, you’ll be surrounded by trees, grassy paths, and open fields that seem to stretch on forever.
The terrain keeps changing too. Some parts are flat and relaxing, while others take you uphill enough to get your heart rate up in a good way.
The highlight here was climbing up to Parliament Hill. It’s not a huge hike, but enough to feel like you’ve earned the view. You’ll see the Shard, the London Eye, and all these iconic buildings from one quiet hilltop.
Pro tip:
Even though the trails are mostly well-trodden, parts of the Heath can get muddy or slippery, especially after rain. I strongly suggest wearing comfortable walking shoes or waterproof trainers with a grip.
Art and cultural things to do in London for free
5. Admire free exhibitions at the Tate Modern
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Address: Bankside
Contact details: +44 20 7887 8888
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 6 PM
Tate Modern is inside this massive old power station on the South Bank. The building itself is worth seeing, even before you look at the art.
One of my favourite things is how the gallery is set up. The fact that the artworks are arranged thematically (rather than by date) means each space feels like a new conversation, and there’s always something unexpected around the corner.
I also always pop up to the top floor of the Blavantnik Building. The view from the terrace is stunning, with St Paul’s Cathedral, the Thames, and the skyline all laid out in front of you. It’s especially lovely at sunset.
Pro tip:
Don’t try to see everything in one go. The free collection alone spans multiple floors and buildings. Pick one section or floor and take your time with it. Besides, you can always come back here since it’s free.
6. Browse historic books at the British Library
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Address: 96 Euston Rd.
Contact details: +44 330 333 1144
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 9:30 AM – 8 PM
- Friday: 9:30 AM – 6 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 5 PM
The building of the British Library is quite modern, and it’s not what I expected from a place that holds so much history. But once you’re inside, it has a calm, almost sacred feel to it.
I spent most of my time in the Treasures Room, which is like a mini museum. Seeing Shakespeare’s actual handwriting and one of the few surviving copies of the Magna Carta in person was surreal. They even had original lyrics written by The Beatles here.
What I loved most was that you don’t need to book anything in advance to enjoy these displays. It’s totally free to walk in and look around, and there’s no pressure to rush. If you’re into research, though, it’s worth knowing you can apply for a Reader Pass.
Pro tip:Use lockers to store your bags downstairs. You can’t bring large bags or food into the exhibit areas or Reading Rooms.
7. Explore the collection of 16th-century paintings at The National Gallery
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Address: Trafalgar Square
Contact details: +44 20 7747 2885
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Friday: 10 AM – 9 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 10 AM – 6 PM
During my last visit to The National Gallery, I started at the Sainsbury Wing. It’s where the older medieval and early Renaissance works are displayed. I later made my way toward the 16th-century rooms.
The transition is really cool since you can see how artists started figuring out light, perspective, and how to make people look more human and expressive over time.
One of my personal highlights was seeing “The Virgin of the Rocks” by Leonardo da Vinci. It’s in Room 66, and it looks so alive.
I loved how the gallery is laid out. You just follow the rooms in order, and it naturally guides you through different time periods and regions. It makes it super easy to follow even if you’re not an expert.
Pro tip:
A lot of the paintings, especially Netherlandish ones, are loaded with symbolism that’s easy to miss. So, don’t miss the audio guides or the QR codes near many works. They’ll give you short stories and historical context that enhance your experience.
8. See contemporary art at the Serpentine Gallery
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Address: Serpentine Gallery, Kensington Gardens
Contact details: +44 20 7402 6075
Operating hours:
- Monday: 12 PM – 6 PM
- Tuesday to Friday: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 10 AM – 7 PM
Serpentine Gallery is actually two galleries, the north and the south. I spent an afternoon exploring both since they’re just separated by a five-minute walk over the Serpentine Bridge.
The North Gallery is housed in a gunpowder store with a futuristic extension by Zaha Hadid. Inside, the exhibition spaces are larger and feel more experimental. When I visited, there was a mix of sculpture, video art, and even a game-based installation.
On the other hand, the South Gallery is much more modest in size, but it felt steeped in history and creativity. You get a real sense of how many groundbreaking artists have shown there. Around the back, the annual Serpentine Pavilion is also set up.
Pro tip:
Entry is free, but a suggested £1 donation goes a long way to keeping these kinds of public art spaces running. It’s totally optional, but worth it if you can spare it.
9. Watch buskers in Covent Garden
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Address: Covent Garden
Contact details: +44 20 7420 5856
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 10 AM – 8 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM
You could end up staying for hours, completely absorbed by the performances at Covent Garden. The energy in the Piazza is infectious since there’s always something happening.
The quality of the acts here is also impressive. It turns out they have to audition to perform here, which makes sense once you see how polished and engaging they are. Some of the buskers are violinists, a magician, and even singers.
The whole vibe feels like an open-air theatre with no tickets required. The best part is, it doesn’t cost a thing unless you choose to drop a few coins in their hats.
Pro tip:
Arrive mid-afternoon for the best atmosphere since buskers are most active between 2 PM to 6 PM. That’s when you’ll catch the biggest variety of acts and the liveliest crowds, especially on weekends.
10. Witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
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Address: Buckingham Palace, Westminster
Contact details: +44 303 123 7300
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Getting inside Buckingham Palace needs an entrance fee, but watching the Changing of the Guard is totally free. The ceremony happens outside the palace and starts at 11 AM, but it’s a good idea to get there by 10 AM to grab a good spot.
I suggest getting near the gates or on the steps of the Victoria Memorial so you can really see the ceremony. The guards wear their famous red uniforms and tall black hats, and they march in with music from a live military band.
The ceremony doesn’t happen every day, so it’s important to check the schedule. It usually runs on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. However, it can be cancelled in bad weather or for special events.
Pro tip:
Make sure to watch your spot. Don’t stand in the path of the guard since they won’t stop or go around you. Better stay behind fences or barriers.
11. Catch some live music at the Southbank Centre
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Address: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd
Contact details: +44 20 3879 9555
Operating hours:
- Monday: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10 AM – 11 PM
If you want to enjoy some of London’s culture without spending money, hanging out at the Southbank Centre is a good idea.
I went recently and ended up catching a live music performance by chance. It was part of their “futuretense” series, which features new and upcoming artists. I just wandered in and followed the sound of music until I found a small crowd enjoying a free gig.
They host all kinds of events, like classical music and festivals. Even if you don’t catch a planned show, there’s often something happening here.
Pro tip:
If you get hungry, there are loads of food stalls and riverside restaurants around. But if you’re on a budget, pack something and enjoy it by the river with a view.
12. Drop by The Old Blue to catch free gigs
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Address: 38 Great Eastern St
Contact details: +44 20 7739 7033
Operating hours:
- Monday: 1 PM – 12 AM
- Tuesday to Wednesday: 12:30 PM – 12 AM
- Thursday: 12:30 PM – 1 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 12:30 PM – 3 AM
- Sunday: 12:30 PM – 12:30 AM
The Old Blue is a pub that’s been around for over 300 years, and it’s famous for live music. Big names like Amy Winehouse and Arctic Monkeys have played here before they got famous.
I went one evening and caught a free gig upstairs. The room is small, so you’re really close to the band, which makes it feel exciting. It did get a bit warm, and there’s no cloakroom, so I suggest not bringing a heavy jacket.
The music was amazing, though. Even though it was free, the band still got paid, which says a lot about how the venue supports new talent.
Pro tip:
Explore Shoreditch before or after the gig. The area around the venue is full of cool street art, indie shops, and food spots, so it’s worth making a whole evening of it.
Other fun things to do in London for free
13. Peek inside God’s Own Junkyard
Address: Unit 12, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall St
Contact details: +44 20 8521 8066
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: Closed
- Friday to Saturday: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM
From the outside, God’s Own Junkyard looks just like a regular warehouse. But once you step inside, you’re surrounded by hundreds of bright neon signs and cool vintage stuff.
There are signs from old London clubs and famous movies like “The Dark Knight” and “Tomb Raider.” Everywhere you look, something is lighting up, hanging from the ceiling, or tucked in a corner. I had fun wandering around seeing what I could find.
There’s also a cute little café inside called “The Rolling Stones.” You can grab a snack or drink while sitting among the neon lights.
Pro tip:
Bring your camera or phone fully charged. The place is a dream for photography, with every corner offering something colourful. Just be respectful and avoid using big camera setups unless you have permission.
14. Visit the Crossrail Place Roof Garden in Canary Wharf
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Address: Crossrail Pl
Contact details: +44 20 7418 2000
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 9 PM
It was surprising how calm and relaxing the Crossrail Place Roof Garden was, especially considering it’s right in the middle of the busy city.
One of the coolest things is that it’s built along the Prime Meridian line. One side has plants from the Eastern world, like bamboo and Japanese maples. The other side has plants from the Western world, like ferns and sweet gum trees.
The wooden roof above is beautiful and shaped like a ship. It actually fits perfectly with the area’s maritime history. There’s loads of natural light, and the whole space just feels airy and peaceful.
Pro tip:
Combine your visit here with nearby attractions. Explore the shops and restaurants in Canary Wharf, or take a walk by the water at West India Quay. You could even hop over to Greenwich for a full day out.
15. Explore Roman history in the London Mithraeum
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Address: 12 Walbrook
Contact details: +44 20 7330 7500
Operating hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Saturday: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 5 PM
London Mithraeum is right near Cannon Street station and hidden under the Bloomberg building. It’s very mysterious and immersive.
The temple, which was built almost 2,000 years ago, was used by Roman soldiers to secretly worship a god named Mithras. It’s underground, so it’s pretty dark. There’s a sound and light show that brings the space to life.
After exploring the temple, you can look at all the Roman objects they found during the dig. One of the coolest things I’ve found there was a handwritten note from 57 AD. It was the oldest one ever found in Britain.
Pro tip:
Even though the entrance is free, it’s best to book a time slot on their website to make sure you get in, especially on weekends or during school holidays.