Welcome to London – A Guide to Free Places to Visit

London is one of the most iconic cities in the world and has been the heart of Britain for centuries. It is a city with a rich history, made up of different cultures, languages, and customs. From its grand architecture to its vibrant nightlife, it has something for everyone. For those looking to explore London on a budget, there are plenty of free places to visit. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best free places to go in London and offer tips on how to make the most of your stay.

History of London

London has been around since the time of the Romans in 43 AD. It was then known as Londinium and was part of the Roman Empire. Over the years, it has been inhabited by the Celts, Saxons, and Normans. By the 12th century, it had become an important trading center and by the 19th century, it had become a major world city. It is now one of the world’s most populous cities and one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world.

With its iconic architecture, vibrant culture, and bustling atmosphere, London has a lot to offer. From its grand palaces to its quaint pubs and charming cobblestone streets, it’s hard to resist its charm. It’s also home to some of the world’s most famous attractions, such as Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and Trafalgar Square. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or just some relaxation, there are plenty of free things to do in London.

Free Places To Go In London

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience without spending too much money, there are plenty of free places to go in London. Here are some of the best:

1. National Gallery

The National Gallery is one of the most popular and impressive art galleries in London. It houses an impressive collection of over 2,000 paintings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, including works by renowned masters such as Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Vermeer. It also offers guided tours, lectures, and special exhibitions. Best of all, entry is free!

2. British Museum

The British Museum is another popular attraction in London, with over 8 million artifacts covering 2 million years of human history. It is home to some of the world’s oldest artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and the Parthenon sculptures. Entry into the museum is free, but there are charges for certain exhibitions or special events.

3. The Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of the most iconic landmarks in London and is an integral part of its history. It was built by William the Conqueror in 1066 and has since served as a royal palace, prison, and fortress. Today it is open to visitors who can explore its grounds and admire its impressive architecture. Entry into the Tower is free but there are charges for tours and special events.

4. Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of London’s largest parks and is popular with both locals and tourists alike. It is home to Kensington Palace, a lake with swans and other waterfowl, a large rose garden, and plenty of open spaces for relaxing walks or picnics. Entry into the park is free but there may be charges for certain activities such as boating or horse riding.

5. St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most iconic buildings and dates back to 1675. It is an impressive example of Baroque architecture and serves as an important religious center for Anglicans in the UK. Visitors can explore its grand interiors for free during regular worship services or attend special services for a fee.

6. Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of London’s oldest churches and boasts a fascinating history spanning over 1,000 years. It is known for its grand architecture and important role in British history as the burial place of many famous figures such as kings, queens, poets and artists. Visitors can explore its grounds for free but there may be charges for certain events or exhibitions.

Popular Tours Around London

If you want to get a more in-depth look at London’s many attractions then you may want to consider booking one of the popular tours around the city. Here are two popular tours that you may want to consider:

1. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour offers a great way to explore London at your own pace. You can hop on and off at any stop along the route which takes you past many of London’s top attractions such as Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge. The tour lasts up to 24 hours and includes an audio guide with facts about each attraction as you pass it by. You can book a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour online in advance or buy tickets at any bus stop along the route.

2. Thames River Cruise

The Thames River Cruise is another popular tour that allows you to explore London at your own pace while admiring the sights along the riverbank. The tour lasts up to two hours and passes many iconic landmarks such as Tower Bridge, The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben as well as giving you an up-close look at some modern buildings such as The Shard and Tate Modern. You can book a Thames River Cruise online in advance or buy tickets at any pier along the route from Westminster Pier to Greenwich Pier.

Conclusion

London is an incredible city full of history, culture, and beauty that can be explored without breaking the bank! Whether you’re looking for grand architecture or some relaxation in one of its parks, there are plenty of free places to go in London for everyone to enjoy. From iconic attractions such as Buckingham Palace to smaller gems like St Paul’s Cathedral, there’s something for everyone! If you want to explore further then consider taking one of the popular tours around the city such as a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour or Thames River Cruise – both offer an unforgettable experience!