10 Free Tourist Activities in London

Many of those that visit the capital and most populous city of England and the United Kingdom feel pleasantly surprised when they discover that there are many activities free of charge in London. From visiting the exquisite London parks to world-class museums, historic houses and impressive art galleries; it is possible to enjoy many of these activities in London for free.

Gardens and parks

Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens (adjacent) are the largest parks in London, covering about 250 hectares of green space. Other recommended areas are Queen Mary's Rose Garden, Regent's Park and St. James Park, whose view of Buckingham Palace is unique. Speaking of views, from Primrose Hill, located on the northern side of Regent's Park, you can enjoy exceptional views of central London.

Monuments

Whilst walking through London, it is possible to see that the city is full of historical monuments, almost more than inside any museum. Some historical sites are Trafalgar Square and South Bank.

The Palace of Westminster at night seen from the south bank of the River Thames — Photo by Andrew Dunn

Museums

Thanks to the commitment and importance given by the English people to culture and learning, almost all of the most important museums in London don't charge any entrance fee. You cannot miss the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, the National Gallery and the British Museum, home to some of the oldest artifacts of English history.

British Museum — Photo by Mariano Mantel

Flea markets

Flea markets are real gems of the city of London. You can find everything from original clothes, antiques, crafts, food and more. Some of the most typical and popular London flea markets are Portobello Market in Notting Hill (Monday through Sunday), Greenwich Market (Tuesday to Sunday) and the Camden Markets.

Concerts and events at the National Theatre

The National Theatre offers almost daily free concert music, as well as photography exhibits throughout the building. The concerts are usually, or related to, jazz and ethnic music such as tango or Latin music.

National Theatre At Night — Photo by Garry Knight

Walking over the Tower Bridge

Walk on what was once the only bridge across the River Thames. A great show is to watch the opening of the drawbridge that usually operates at certain times of the day. Click here to check the Bridge Lift Times

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

If there is anything in London that is emblematic of this city, it is the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace. The ceremony lasts about 45 minutes and usually takes place daily at 11:30 from April until the end of July and on alternate days for the rest of the year, weather permitting.

Buckingham Palace and Changing the Guard — Photo by ENJOYEXPLORELIFE

Kenwood House

The stately home that belonged to Edward Cecil Guinness, the great-grandson of the founder of Guinness, Arthur Guinness, was donated to the nation in 1924. The house internally features works by renowned painters like Vermeer and Rembrandt as well as ample gardens around the property.

St Martin-in-the-Fields

This 18th century church in Trafalgar Square was built over a church, with little known about its origins, except that it was hosted by monks in the 13th century and then taken by Henry VIII to prevent those that were sick from the plague to pass through his palace. Nowadays, it is one of the most important churches in the city and a symbol of the country. In the crypt there is a cafe where you can have breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Westminster Abbey

With regard to churches, there is no other so important in London and England as the Westminster Abbey. The church which, since 1066, has been the coronation church in England, contains within its interior major paintings and Gothic architecture. The church does not charge entry fee as long as you go to pray or to attend Mass.