London might have a reputation for being expensive, but I’m here to prove that wrong! From world-class museums to iconic sights and hidden gems, there’s so much to enjoy without breaking the bank. Here’s my insider’s guide for places to visit in london for free :
Getting There
- Flights: Heathrow Airport (LHR) is the main hub, but keep an eye on Gatwick (LGW), Luton (LTN), and Stansted (STN). I use Skyscanner to find the best deals.
- Trains: The Eurostar from mainland Europe brings you right into the heart of the city.
- Visas: Don’t wing it – check those visa requirements well in advance! The UK government website has the latest details.
Timing Your Trip
- Weather: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer a nice mix of decent weather and smaller crowds.
- Festival Fun: If you’re into free events, London’s summer calendar is packed, but be ready for things to be busy.
10 places to visit in London for free (with Opening Hours!)
- Museum Masterpieces: Get lost in history at the British Museum (open daily 10am-5pm, Fridays until 8:30pm). The Natural History Museum (same hours!) is a dinosaur-lover’s dream, and the Tate Modern (open daily 10am-6pm, Fridays and Saturdays until 10pm) is all about modern art.
- Pomp and Pageantry: Witness the iconic Changing of the Guard outside Buckingham Palace. It usually happens around 11am, but double-check the schedule online. Arrive early for a good spot!
- Green Retreats: Hyde Park is perfect for picnics. For a touch of tranquility, head to Kyoto Garden in Holland Park.
- Market Adventures: Feast your senses at Borough Market (open most days, closed Sundays). For antiques and vintage finds, Portobello Road Market is a must (the main day is Saturday).
- Sky-High Views: Climb to the top of Primrose Hill for a breathtaking panorama of the London skyline.
- Art and Architecture: Admire the stunning facade of St. Paul’s Cathedral, a London icon.
- South Bank Stroll: Take a leisurely walk along the Thames River on the South Bank for street performers and iconic sights like the London Eye.
- Treasure Hunting: The Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A) (open daily 10am-5:45pm, Fridays until 10pm) is a must for design lovers.
- A Royal Park: Explore the lush greenery and wildlife of Greenwich Park, and get amazing city views from the hilltop.
- Harry Potter Magic: Potter fans, don’t miss the real-life Platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross Station!
Tastes of places in London (Even on a Budget)
- Fish and Chips: A British classic! Find a no-frills “chippy” for the best experience.
- Sunday Roast: A classic pub lunch – roast meat, Yorkshire puddings, and gravy galore.
- Brick Lane Curries: This vibrant street is curry heaven.
- Park Picnic: Assemble a delicious spread from a local market and enjoy it in a London park.
Sleeping in Style (Even on a Budget)
- The Luxe Life: Go all-out at an icon like The Savoy or Claridge’s.
- Mid-Range Charm: Neighborhoods like Bloomsbury or South Kensington are full of lovely hotels.
- Hostel Haven: For a social and budget-friendly stay, check out lively areas like Shoreditch or Camden.
Extra Tips
- Oyster Card is Key: This card makes navigating London’s excellent public transport a breeze.
- Embrace Walking: Central London is surprisingly walkable. Ditch the transport sometimes and soak up those city vibes.
- Free Walking Tours: A great way to explore, learn a bit of history, and save those precious pounds.
Visit London website: The official tourism site has loads of practical info, events listings, and more. https://www.visitlondon.com/
