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10 Free Things to Do in London
For the expectant backpacker, nothing could be more exciting than arriving in London. This is one of the world’s very best cities in terms of so many things; whether you’re here to visit museums, view architecture, go on urban hikes, chill in a park, or party until you can’t quite remember what day it is, London is simply the place to be.
Unfortunately, London prices are some of the highest in the world. But don’t fear! There are plenty of ways to cut back expenditure while spending time here. For a start, cheap London hostels are plentiful; they provide an affordable and sociable place to rest your head and meet new people.
There’s also a glut of totally free things to do in London. Here, then, is a rundown of ten of the best…
1) Tour the Museums
Not so long back, the British Government did a truly great thing: it made public museums in the city free to enter. As such, world-renowned collections of art and historical exhibitions are open to one and all, from the cutting-edge art of the Tate Modern to the prehistoric dinosaurs of the National History Museum.
2) Head to a Park
For such a busy and – some would claim – congested place, London is actually blessed with many large green spaces, which effectively function as the city’s lungs. Hyde Park is the headlining attraction, although Hampstead Heath, Richmond and Greenwich can prove better options, as they are farther form the hubbub of the inner city.
3) Enjoy Free Breakfast
If you’re staying in a London hostel, chances are your room rate includes a free morning breakfast. Stock up as the day begins, then, and save your self the agony of buying food once out in the city. It can be a little expensive, to say the least.
4) Tour the Markets
For those who like to browse market displays, London is a veritable slice of heaven. From the up market stalls of Portobello to the skuzzy fare of Camden, London’s markets cover just about everything. An insider’s tip: Try the Columbia Road Flower Market on Sundays. A visual feast, it’s off the beaten track as far as tourists are concerned.
5) Walk along the Southbank
Especially on weekends, London’s Southbank is a dizzying assortment of street performers, book markets, and audiences heading to a play at the Globe or a film at the National Film Theatre. Sit on a public bench and watch this open-air theatre come to life.
6) The Friday Night Skate
Every Friday a cavalcade of skaters zoom through the streets of London. This isn’t one for the feint hearted, and you’ll need to sort out your own footwear, but for those who can make it, the Friday Night Skate is a magnificent bastion of underground culture in the city.
7) Tour the Blue Plaques
Across London, the houses of historical figures are marked with iconic Blue Plaques, which explain who lived in the house they adorn, and when. You can even categorize these plaques, perhaps touring those dedicated to literary figures, or those that honor great philosophical figures.
8) Take in a Film at the Roxy Bar and Screen
The Roxy Bar and Screen in Borough screens films for free every night of the week. While you should probably buy at least one drink for the sake of politeness, films still don’t come cheaper than this.
9) Westminster Abbey
The visually stunning Westminster Abbey, in the heart of the city of London, is absolutely free to enter. A huge Gothic edifice, this has been the site of the coronation of British monarchs for over a thousand years.
10) Take in the View from Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill in the north of London is a little known gem of an attraction. While many tourists pay through the teeth for a ride on the signature Millennium Eye, Primrose Hill offers just as good a view, and without the disadvantage of creeping claustrophobia. What’s more, it’s absolutely totally 100% free!
Unfortunately, London prices are some of the highest in the world. But don’t fear! There are plenty of ways to cut back expenditure while spending time here. For a start, cheap London hostels are plentiful; they provide an affordable and sociable place to rest your head and meet new people.
There’s also a glut of totally free things to do in London. Here, then, is a rundown of ten of the best…
1) Tour the Museums
Not so long back, the British Government did a truly great thing: it made public museums in the city free to enter. As such, world-renowned collections of art and historical exhibitions are open to one and all, from the cutting-edge art of the Tate Modern to the prehistoric dinosaurs of the National History Museum.
2) Head to a Park
For such a busy and – some would claim – congested place, London is actually blessed with many large green spaces, which effectively function as the city’s lungs. Hyde Park is the headlining attraction, although Hampstead Heath, Richmond and Greenwich can prove better options, as they are farther form the hubbub of the inner city.
3) Enjoy Free Breakfast
If you’re staying in a London hostel, chances are your room rate includes a free morning breakfast. Stock up as the day begins, then, and save your self the agony of buying food once out in the city. It can be a little expensive, to say the least.
4) Tour the Markets
For those who like to browse market displays, London is a veritable slice of heaven. From the up market stalls of Portobello to the skuzzy fare of Camden, London’s markets cover just about everything. An insider’s tip: Try the Columbia Road Flower Market on Sundays. A visual feast, it’s off the beaten track as far as tourists are concerned.
5) Walk along the Southbank
Especially on weekends, London’s Southbank is a dizzying assortment of street performers, book markets, and audiences heading to a play at the Globe or a film at the National Film Theatre. Sit on a public bench and watch this open-air theatre come to life.
6) The Friday Night Skate
Every Friday a cavalcade of skaters zoom through the streets of London. This isn’t one for the feint hearted, and you’ll need to sort out your own footwear, but for those who can make it, the Friday Night Skate is a magnificent bastion of underground culture in the city.
7) Tour the Blue Plaques
Across London, the houses of historical figures are marked with iconic Blue Plaques, which explain who lived in the house they adorn, and when. You can even categorize these plaques, perhaps touring those dedicated to literary figures, or those that honor great philosophical figures.
8) Take in a Film at the Roxy Bar and Screen
The Roxy Bar and Screen in Borough screens films for free every night of the week. While you should probably buy at least one drink for the sake of politeness, films still don’t come cheaper than this.
9) Westminster Abbey
The visually stunning Westminster Abbey, in the heart of the city of London, is absolutely free to enter. A huge Gothic edifice, this has been the site of the coronation of British monarchs for over a thousand years.
10) Take in the View from Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill in the north of London is a little known gem of an attraction. While many tourists pay through the teeth for a ride on the signature Millennium Eye, Primrose Hill offers just as good a view, and without the disadvantage of creeping claustrophobia. What’s more, it’s absolutely totally 100% free!
About the Author
Before settling down and becoming a copywriter for HostelBookers.com Jonny Cooper did a backpacking tour of the UK and he checked out a variety of hostels in London.
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Article rating: none yet
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