50+ Free Things To Do In London in 2026
London is one of the world’s most popular destinations, but it can also be quite expensive to visit. But don’t let that put you off!
One of the best ways to keep costs low is to take advantage of some of the many free activities visitors can enjoy in London.
So here is a list of plenty of free things to do in London to keep you occupied for the duration of your visit.
Free Museums & Galleries
This is one of my favourite things about London – incredible museums and galleries that in other cities could charge a high entrance fee, but are free to visit in London. Some museums require visitors to book a timed entry slot, so check their websites in advance.
Here are some of the best London museums, all of which happen to be free!
1. Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is perhaps London’s best museum, and it also rivals international equivalents such as the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC. It’s an enormous collection, with highlights including a dinosaur exhibit, a gemstone gallery, and an earthquake area.
I highly recommend it to locals and visitors alike, especially those with children who will find plenty to keep them entertained and engaged.
2. National Gallery
The National Gallery is another world-class institution. The collection includes works by artists such as Da Vinci, van Gogh, Rembrandt, Monet, Michelangelo, and many more.
The gallery has an app you can download to provide additional information on the art you see and if you are visiting with children, check the website to see what free children’s activities are available.
One of the things that I appreciate about free galleries like this is that, as someone who likes looking at art but has no expertise, I don’t have to spend hours there to justify the cost of a ticket. You can spend as long as you like, but there’s no pressure to see everything they have on display.
Tip: You are no longer allowed to bring any liquids into the building with the exceptions of baby formula, expressed milk and prescription medicines. This is due to a few recent incidents when protestors tried to damage artwork. There are cafes inside so you can buy food and drink during your visit, but you can’t bring it with you from outside.
3. National Portrait Gallery
Just around the corner from the National Gallery is the National Portrait Gallery. As a history fan, I always enjoy this one.
The gallery is arranged in historical order so that you start on the top floor with portraits from the Tudor era. You’ll then work your way back to the ground floor, past portraits from the English Civil War, Regency era, and Victorian age and down towards the Contemporary collection.
It has the largest collection of portraits in the world, and I highly recommend a visit.
4. British Museum
The British Museum has an incredible collection, with objects from around the world and throughout human history.
If you have an interest in history, it’s amazing place to visit. The most famous item in the British Museum is the Rosetta Stone, which was used to translate Egyptian hieroglyphs into other languages for the first time.
Other highlights include Egyptian mummies, Ancient Greek pottery, Roman artefacts, Chinese ceramics and much, much more.
It is worth noting that some of the acquisitions are controversial, so some people may prefer to skip it. This especially the case with the Elgin Marbles, whose ownership has been a point of contention between the British Museum and Greek government for decades.
5. Tate Modern
The Tate Modern is a world-renowned modern art museum housed in a striking former power station on the South Bank. Entry to its main collection is free, offering a chance to see iconic works by artists like Picasso and Warhol.
Don’t miss the famous Turbine Hall, often featuring immersive installations. The Tate Modern is also a great place to enjoy river and city views from Level 10.
6. Victoria and Albert Museum
The V&A in South Kensington is a beautiful building dedicated to art and design, and performance. Its free permanent collection includes everything from ancient sculptures to contemporary fashion. Highlights include the Jewellery Gallery and the stunning Cast Courts, featuring life-size replicas of historic monuments.
They also have a stunning glass chandelier by my favourite artists, Dale Chihuly.
The V&A often hosts extremely popular temporary exhibitions with paid entry, but the main collection is free.
7. Young V&A
Formerly the Museum of Childhood, the Young V&A in Bethnal Green went through a complete redesign a few years ago and is a vastly improved space. It’s now a bright and colourful museum, full of displays and activities that young visitors will enjoy.
Entry is free, and the museum offers hands-on exhibits, interactive play areas, and displays focused on creativity and design. It’s perfect for families or anyone curious about childhood through the ages.
8. Imperial War Museum
The Imperial War Museum in Lambeth tells the stories of war and conflict from a personal perspective. Free exhibits include artefacts, vehicles, and immersive displays covering both world wars and contemporary conflicts. The Holocaust Exhibition and World War I galleries are particularly moving.
The museums’s collection is an important one, but the displays can be distressing, especially those relating to the Holocaust and Battle of the Somme.
A quick note – the Churchill War Rooms and HMS Belfast are also part of the Imperial War Museum group but aren’t free to visit.
9. Museum of London Docklands
Located in a historic warehouse in Canary Wharf, this museum explores London’s maritime past and the history of its docks.
I wasn’t expecting much when I visited and was very pleasantly surprised.
Highlights include exhibits on the transatlantic slave trade, the Docklands’ role during WWII, and the atmospheric recreation of a Victorian street.
Tip: The main Museum of London site has closed and the collection is being re-located and will re-open in 2026. The Docklands site has an entirely different collection, so bear that in mind if you see the Museum of London recommended on other websites
10. The Wallace Collection
Housed in an opulent 18th-century townhouse in Marylebone, the Wallace Collection features an impressive array of fine art, furniture, and armour. Highlights include masterpieces by Titian and Fragonard, as well as a stunning courtyard café.
The Wallace Collection is a sort of stately home/museum hybrid as you can explore the house itself as well as the collection it holds.
11. Science Museum
The Science Museum is in South Kensington (very close to the V&A and Natural History Museum). It’s packed with engaging exhibits covering everything from space exploration to medical history.
There is an area dedicated to women in STEM, in keeping with the museum’s overall tone of inspiring an interest in science and technology.
Much of the collection is free, however you do need to pay if you have children who want to spend time in the interactive Wonderlab area.
12. Wellcome Collection
The Wellcome Collection near Euston is a quirky museum that blends science, medicine, and art. Free exhibits explore themes like the human body, health, and mortality. Highlights include unusual artefacts, such as a Victorian amputation saw, and thought-provoking contemporary art installations.
The Wellcome collection is also known for its reading room, where you can browse their books with chairs and beanbags to relax on while you read.
13. Serpentine Galleries
The Serpentine Galleries in Hyde Park are a pair of free art galleries showcasing contemporary installations which regularly change.
Each year there is a new, temporary Serpentine Pavilion – innovative structures designed by leading architects. 2025 marks the 25th anniversary of this event, which opens for 3 months each year for the public to enjoy the temporary installation.
The Serpentine Galleries are significantly smaller than other galleries in this list, so bear in mind when planning a visit that you won’t need to budget as much time there.
Iconic Landmarks & Historic Sites
14. Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
The Changing of the Guard is a popular London experience showcasing British pageantry. This free event outside Buckingham Palace features a formal handover between the King’s Guards, complete with traditional uniforms and music.
Check the schedule in advance, as it doesn’t happen every day. The standard schedule for Buckingham Palace is Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday but the website may show other variations in schedule as well. You can also see the ceremony at Windsor Castle on other days.
Also, bear in mind that you’ll need to arrive well in advance of the start time if you want to get a good view point.
15. Tower Bridge
While the Tower Bridge Exhibition is ticketed, you can access the main bridge for free. Walk across the pedestrian pathway to take in stunning views of the Thames and nearby landmarks like the Tower of London, The Shard and City Hall.
Just make sure you don’t accidentally head to London Bridge, which is a fairly plain concrete bridge.
16. Westminster Abbey
You don’t need a ticket to admire the breathtaking exterior of Westminster Abbey. You can also attend a service at the abbey for free to see a limited portion inside, but if you want to explore Westminster Abbey in full you would need to pay for a sightseeing ticket.
17. St. Paul’s Cathedral
As with Westminster Abbey, you can access a part of St Paul’s for free by attending a service, or pay for a sightseeing visit to see the full cathedral.
18. Trafalgar Square
A bustling public space, Trafalgar Square is perfect for soaking up London’s atmosphere. Take in the famous Nelson’s Column, fountains, and the impressive façade of the National Gallery.
You can also find pop-up stalls at different times of the year, such as a Christmas market.
19. Walk Across Millennium Bridge
This pedestrian-only bridge connects St. Paul’s Cathedral to the Tate Modern and offers sweeping views of the Thames. As you walk, look out for landmarks like the Globe Theatre and the Shard.
If the bridge looks familiar, you may have seen it in films such as Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.
20. Admire Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament from the South Bank
For the best views of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, head to the South Bank of the Thames. The stretch near Westminster Bridge offers picture-perfect angles, especially at sunset.
21. London Mithraeum
This hidden gem under Bloomberg’s European HQ showcases the ruins of a Roman temple dedicated to Mithras. Entry is free, and the immersive experience includes atmospheric lighting and a reconstruction of the temple as it once stood.
It’s a quick visit – there are a few displays to see on the way down and then a brief show of the ruins themselves, but this isn’t somewhere you’ll spend a significant amount of time.
22. Horizon 22
Located in the City of London, Horizon 22 is a free viewing platform offering panoramic views of the London skyline. Although The Shard is taller, the viewing area at the top of Horizon 22 is higher up than The View From The Shard, making it the UK’s highest viewing area.
From here, you can spot landmarks like the Gherkin, Tower Bridge, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Advance booking is required, but the tickets are free.
23. The Monument
The Monument to the Great Fire of London commemorates the 1666 disaster that shaped the city. While climbing to the top requires a ticket, viewing the ornate column and learning about its history from the base is free.
24. St Dunstan in the East
This peaceful garden in the ruins of a bombed-out church is a serene escape from the city’s hustle. Located between London Bridge and Tower Hill, it’s a beautiful spot for quiet reflection or photography.
Parks & Gardens
25. Hyde Park
One of London’s largest green spaces, Hyde Park offers a mix of open lawns, tree-lined paths, and the serene Serpentine Lake. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk or a relaxing picnic in the heart of the city.
There are several play areas, the famous Speaker’s Corner, and if you visit near Christmas you can also explore the annual Winter Wonderland (free entry is possible for some sessions).
26. Kensington Gardens
Adjacent to Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens is home to the stunning Kensington Palace (which you have to pay to visit), the Italian Gardens, and the Diana Memorial Playground. It’s a peaceful retreat with a royal touch.
27. Regent’s Park
This beautifully landscaped park features gardens, open spaces, and a boating lake. It’s also home to London Zoo, although you would need to pay to enter the zoo.
I particularly enjoy the park’s rose garden, especially when they are in full bloom in summer.
28. Primrose Hill
Just north of Regent’s Park, Primrose Hill is a popular spot for its stunning views of London’s skyline. It’s ideal for a quiet escape or a relaxing afternoon watching the world go by. The area around Primrose Hill is also famous for streets with pretty, pastel townhouses, such as Chalcot Square and Regent’s Park Road.
29. Hampstead Heath and Kenwood House
Hampstead Heath is a vast natural expanse offering woodlands, ponds, and incredible city views from Parliament Hill. Kenwood House, a free-to-visit stately home, boasts a fine art collection and a tranquil setting.
30. Richmond Park
Famous for its free-roaming deer, Richmond Park is a sprawling, peaceful escape from urban life. It’s perfect for cycling, walking, or simply soaking in its natural beauty.
31. Postman’s Park
Tucked away near St Paul’s Cathedral, this small park is home to the Watts Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice, which commemorates the lives of people who died while saving others. The most famous of these is the memorial for Alice Ayers who rescued three young girls from a house fire in 1885.
32. Visit the Sky Garden
Located atop the “Walkie Talkie” building, the Sky Garden offers free entry to an indoor garden with incredible panoramic views of London. Be sure to book your visit in advance – although it’s not as high up as Horizon 22 it is more popular.
33. Epping Forest
On the edge of London, Epping Forest is a vast woodland perfect for hiking, cycling, or horseback riding. It’s a haven for nature lovers and a great escape from city life.
34. Battersea Park
This riverside park features tranquil gardens, fountains, and even a Peace Pagoda. It’s a lovely spot for a stroll or a riverside picnic with views of the Thames.
35. Barbican Conservatory
This hidden tropical oasis is located within the Barbican Centre. Home to over 2,000 species of plants, it’s a free-to-visit green retreat in the middle of the city.
36. Kyoto Garden
Located in Holland Park, this serene Japanese garden features koi ponds, waterfalls, and meticulously landscaped paths. It’s a peaceful escape and a unique cultural touch in London.
Markets & Quirky Neighbourhoods
37. Borough Market
Borough Market is one of London’s oldest and most famous food markets. While indulging in gourmet treats might cost you, browsing the stalls is free and a feast for the senses. You’ll find everything from artisanal cheeses to exotic spices.
38. Portobello Road Market
Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill is a vibrant hub for antiques, vintage fashion, and quirky finds. Saturdays are the busiest, with the most stalls open, but the colourful street itself is worth a visit any day.
It’s appeared in a few different London films and is one of the city’s most famous street markets.
39. Columbia Road Flower Market
This bustling flower market transforms Columbia Road into a floral paradise each Sunday. Even if you’re not buying, it’s a great spot for photos, people-watching, and soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Unfortunately, it’s more of an effort to get to than some of London’s other markets, but still a nice one to wander around.
40. Brick Lane Street Art
Brick Lane is a canvas for some of London’s best street art, featuring works by local and international artists. Wander through its side streets to discover colourful murals, thought-provoking graffiti, and a creative vibe.
41. Camden Lock
Camden Lock is the heart of Camden Market, offering unique indie shops, craft stalls, and food vendors. The nearby canals provide a peaceful contrast, with picturesque walks or boat rides to Little Venice.
42. Spitalfields Market
Go looking for elephants in Spitalfields and browse the market stalls. There are several elephant statues dotted around Spitalfields – the Herd of Hope aimed at raising awareness and funds for an elephant sanctuary in Kenya.
Cultural & Unique Experiences
43. South Bank Walk
A walk along the South Bank offers a mix of street performers, public art, and some of London’s best riverside views. Stroll from Tower Bridge to Westminster Bridge, passing landmarks like the National Theatre, London Eye and Shakespeare’s Globe.
It’s one of my favourite parts of London – for more information on the are have a look at my guide to the South Bank.
44. Street Performers at Covent Garden
Covent Garden’s central piazza is a hub for free entertainment. You’ll find talented street performers, from musicians to acrobats, creating a lively atmosphere amidst the iconic market stalls. The performers are licensed by the local council and have permits to perform.
Of course, if you are watching a performer for several minutes then it is polite to tip them for their work.
45. Explore Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel
This colourful tunnel near Waterloo Station is London’s premier spot for street art. Constantly changing as new works are added, it’s a great place to see the city’s creative side.
46. Free Events at the Scoop by Tower Bridge
The Scoop, an open-air amphitheatre next to City Hall, hosts free events year-round. From live music to outdoor film screenings, it’s a great spot to soak up the atmosphere with Tower Bridge as your backdrop.
47. Abbey Road
Visit the famous Abbey Road zebra crossing, immortalised by The Beatles. While it’s a working road, it’s a must-visit for music fans and a fun place to snap a photo recreating the iconic album cover. Just be careful not to get in the way of locals trying to get around.
48. Platform 9 ¾
At King’s Cross Station, Harry Potter fans can pose with the trolley disappearing into the wall at Platform 9 ¾. The nearby Harry Potter shop offers a themed experience, though photos with the trolley are free.
49. St Paul’s Covent Garden
Also known as the Actor’s Church, this is a quiet, historic space with connections to London’s theatre scene. Visitors are welcome to wander around and see the memorials to some of the world’s most famous actors. Its peaceful garden is a lovely retreat from the busy streets nearby.
50. British Library Treasures
The British Library’s Treasures Gallery is free to visit and holds a remarkable collection of historic manuscripts and artefacts. Highlights include Magna Carta, original Beatles lyrics, and Shakespeare’s First Folio.
Shops For Browsing
51. Liberty
This historic Tudor-style department store in Soho is a treasure trove of unique finds. Known for its floral prints and artisanal goods, it’s worth exploring for its beautiful design and curated collections.
Even if you’re not shopping, Liberty is worth visiting for its beautiful design and the chance to soak up its unique atmosphere.
52. Hatchards
As London’s oldest bookshop, Hatchards on Piccadilly is steeped in literary history. It’s a beautiful bookshop with a gorgeous central staircase, with everything from signed editions to classic reads on offer.
53. Daunt Books
This Edwardian-style bookshop in Marylebone is famous for its travel-themed organisation, with books arranged by country. Its oak shelves and skylights create a tranquil browsing experience, and a very popular location for Instagram shops. Their branded tote bags are also very popular.
54. Leadenhall Market
This historic covered market in the City of London is a stunning spot for window shopping. Known for its ornate architecture, it’s home to boutique shops and was also a filming location for the Harry Potter series.
55. Fortnum and Mason
Fortnum & Mason is famous for its fine teas, gourmet hampers, and high-end goods, but you don’t need to buy anything to enjoy a visit. Browse its elegant Food Halls, with beautifully arranged displays of chocolates, preserves, and teas.
The opulent interiors, including sparkling chandeliers and ornate staircases, make the experience feel truly special.
Conclusion – Free Things To Do In London
So, there you have it! More than 50 free things to do in London to help keep your budget low. Tom ake the most of the city you should consider a mix of free and paid activities. Check out my 24 hours in London guide and my 5 day London itinerary to help plan your days.
You might also find this guide on where to stay in London, and how to use London public transport helpful.
Don’t forget to check out my London Travel Guide for more helpful posts.
And if you have any questions or want to share your experience, please join my free UK travel Facebook group!
✈️ Planning to explore beyond London? You’ll find all my UK travel tips and itineraries here.
