London is the home of Her Majesty the Queen, Big Ben, and for many fans–Harry Potter. But what many tourists might not know is how many free things there are to do in London! Whether it’s culture, history, or you’re looking for–we have something for you listed below:
Explore London’s Free Museums
Did you know that most of the London museums are completely free to get in? In fact, even the world-class British Museum will cost you zilch. Discover sculptures, mummies, famous art, and even dinosaur bones!
Some museums to add to your itinerary: Design Museum, Imperial Museum, and Tate Modern.
Attend a BBC TV Show Taping
You can’t leave London without a BBC experience! Before making your journey to The Old Smoke, check out BBC’s website for a showing and apply for a ticket. If you’re selected to be in the audience, arrive early to the studio to ensure you get a seat!
Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
See the impressive 45-minute Changing the Guard ceremony. If you’re headed to London during April through July, expect a ceremony every day. For the rest of year, it alternates days so be sure to check out the schedule.
Enjoy Free Plays, Concerts, and Other Entertainment at The Scoop
The Scoop is an awesome modern outdoor amphitheatre next to City Hall. Come to The Scoop and catch free entertainment from music to plays, and even outdoor movie screenings!
Bonus: If you walk east along the Thames, you’ll score an amazing view of the Tower of London.
Visit Westminister Abbey
A short walk from Buckingham Palace and you’ll discover Westminister Abbey, a world famous building that has had ties to the Royal Family for years. In fact, you might remember it from the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. The Abbey never charges people who want to worship, but will charge a small fee for those stopping by to check it out. To view the schedule for worship and visiting, check out their website.
Discover New Reading Material at the British Library
Notoriously one of the largest libraries in the world, the British Library is truly something to behold. With almost 150 million items including historic manuscripts and documents on display, it’s a pure delight–and free! Other historic items include the Magna Carta, a Gutenberg Bible, and the Canterbury Tales.
Stroll Through London’s Royal Parks
The great thing about London’s Royal Parks is that you have park options and any option is a great one. Visit Hyde Park during the winter and you’ll quickly find yourself immersed in their annual Winter Wonderland, which includes a holiday market and fair. You will also find Speaker’s Corner, which gives anyone the opportunity to debate, speak, or discuss.
Kensington Gardens is also a spectacular visit and is home to the famous Peter Pan statue.
Visit the Houses of Parliment
To truly take in the London experience, you must visit the iconic Houses of Parliment, and why not when it’s totally free? (This is also where youn will find Big Ben!) Take a tour that offers a unique blend of 1,000 years of history wrapped in with modern day politics and of course, breathtaking art and architecture.