50 FREE Things To Do in London 🇬🇧 | Budget Travel Guide - Girl vs Globe
- 00:00 Intro
- 00:14 London sightseeing
- 01:15 Parks
- 02:21 Markets
- 04:00 Street art
- 04:25 London museums
- 05:39 Shopping
- 07:25 Famous squares
- 08:28 History
- 09:33 London views
- 10:27 Pop culture
!summarize
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Exploring London on a Budget: 50 Free Activities
Visiting London can often come with a hefty price tag. However, there’s a hidden gem in this bustling metropolis – a plethora of free activities that allow you to soak in the culture, history, and beauty of the capital without spending a penny. In this article, we’ll delve into 50 enriching experiences in London where you can enjoy the city while keeping your wallet intact.
Scenic Walks and Iconic Landmarks
To kick off your adventure, start with a leisurely walk along the South Bank of the River Thames, stretching from the historic Tower of London to the majestic London Eye and the Palace of Westminster.
The Tower of London and Westminster
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While you have to pay for entry into the Tower of London, crossing Tower Bridge is free, and the views are breathtaking. At the Palace of Westminster, admire the famed Big Ben clock tower without charge. UK residents can take advantage of free tickets to enter the palace through their local MP's office.
Sky Garden and London’s Parks
Not far from these iconic sights, you’ll find the Sky Garden—a stunning rooftop garden that only requires advance booking for access. If you seek green spaces, London boasts a wealth of parks. Hyde Park, known for its vastness and local wildlife, is perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls. Richmond Park, known for its deer, and Kensington Gardens with its serene Albert Memorial are also must-visit locations.
Markets and Street Life
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Markets in London are vibrant and diverse, offering everything from antiques to delicious street food.
Portobello Road and Borough Market
Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill is a colorful haven for unique finds and antiques. If you’re feeling peckish, head over to Borough Market, one of the oldest food markets, for an array of culinary delights.
Columbia Road Flower Market and Camden Market
For a floral feast, visit the Columbia Road Flower Market on Sundays, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Camden Market offers an eclectic mix of music, art, and vintage fashion amidst the lively atmosphere.
Art and Museums
London is home to some of the finest museums in the world that also happen to be free.
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The British Museum and Tate Modern
The British Museum features an impressive collection of global history with over eight million works and is the most visited attraction in the UK. The Tate Modern, focusing on contemporary art, is also unmissable and located near the iconic Globe Theatre.
Natural History Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum
The Natural History Museum houses fascinating exhibits, including the remarkable blue whale skeleton. Meanwhile, the Victoria and Albert Museum showcases artworks and designs from various periods.
Shopping and Unique Experiential Spots
If you enjoy shopping, explore London’s renowned shopping locations.
Oxford Street and Regent Street
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Oxford Street is likely to be bustling with tourists, but it’s an essential visit for newcomers. Close by is Regent Street, known for its festive decorations, especially around Christmas.
Liberty and Neal's Yard
Don’t miss the unique Liberty store with its attractive Tudor architecture. For something quirky, visit Neal's Yard, a hidden courtyard filled with colorful shops and eateries.
Squares and Cultural Hotspots
London's squares are imbued with history and are popular meeting points.
Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden
Trafalgar Square, complete with the free National Portrait Gallery, is a cultural hub. Nearby Covent Garden offers a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
SoHo and Piccadilly Circus
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If you're interested in nightlife, SoHo's vibrant atmosphere is perfect. Piccadilly Circus, with its iconic neon signs, is effectively London’s answer to Times Square.
Historical Insights
London’s rich history can be explored via various sites.
Roman Walls and St. Paul's Cathedral
The old Roman walls near the Tower of London are a testament to London’s ancient past. Visiting St. Paul’s Cathedral can be a rewarding experience, especially during worship services on Sundays.
Highgate Cemetery
For a dose of macabre history, venture into Highgate Cemetery, resting place to notable figures like Karl Marx.
Stunning Views and Natural Beauty
London’s landscape is dotted with stunning viewpoints.
Hampstead Heath and Greenwich
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Hampstead Heath is perfect for panoramic views of the city’s skyline. The area is also popular for picnics and outdoor activities. Over in Greenwich, enjoy the serene surroundings of the National Maritime Museum and stunning views from the Greenwich Observatory.
Pop Culture Highlights
Finally, immerse yourself in London's literary and film history.
Abbey Road and 221b Baker Street
The iconic Abbey Road remains a testament to the Beatles while 221b Baker Street is known as the home of the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes.
Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross
For Harry Potter fans, visiting Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross is a must, allowing you to step into the wizarding world.
Conclusion
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London, with its endless array of free activities, is a city that welcomes exploration and discovery. Whether you enjoy nature, history, art, or culture, you can create memorable experiences without breaking the bank. By knowing where to look and taking the time to wander through its streets and parks, you can truly appreciate what this remarkable city has to offer—without the hefty price tag. So grab your walking shoes, and start your journey through the capital today!