A Tourist’s Guide to Free Places to Visit In London

London is one of the world’s most iconic and vibrant cities. With its unique history, stunning architecture, and incredible sights, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of British culture. This bustling city is also home to a number of free attractions, perfect for those looking for a budget-friendly way to explore the sights. From breathtaking views to fascinating historical sites, here’s a guide to some of the top free places to visit in London.

Discovering the City’s History

London has been a center for culture and art for centuries. From its humble beginnings as a small Roman settlement, the city has grown and evolved into the thriving metropolis it is today. To get a better understanding of the city’s past, visitors can take a self-guided tour of the city’s most famous historical sites.

The Tower of London is one such site. As the former home to centuries of monarchs, it’s an important part of British history. Visitors can explore the tower and its grounds free of charge, and even watch the famous changing of the guard ceremony. The Ceremony of the Keys is another popular free event, where visitors can watch as the Tower’s gates are locked each night.

The British Museum is another popular spot for those interested in learning more about the city’s history. This sprawling museum houses more than 8 million artifacts, making it one of the largest collections in the world. Visitors can explore everything from Egyptian mummies and Greek sculptures to ancient manuscripts and modern artwork, all without spending a penny.

Exploring London’s Natural Beauty

London may be known for its bustling streets and impressive architecture, but it’s also home to some stunning natural beauty. Hyde Park is one of the city’s most beloved parks, providing visitors with a peaceful oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of London life. Here, visitors can take a stroll through the picturesque gardens, or watch as boats cruise across the lake.

The Royal Parks are another great way to explore London’s natural side. With eight parks in total, these green spaces offer plenty of opportunities for exploration. From Richmond Park’s roaming deer to St James’s Park’s beautiful lake views, these parks are ideal for those looking to spend some time in nature.

Enjoying London’s Arts Scene

London is known for its vibrant arts scene, and there are plenty of free ways to get involved. Much of London’s art can be found in public spaces around the city. The Southbank Centre is a great place to start, with its street art-covered walls, and its array of free events and exhibitions throughout the year.

The Tate Modern is another great spot to explore London’s art scene free of charge. Located in Bankside along the River Thames, this art gallery features works from some of the world’s greatest artists, including Picasso and Matisse. The gallery also hosts free exhibitions throughout the year that showcase contemporary art from all over the world.

The National Gallery is another free must-see in London. Located on Trafalgar Square, this museum houses some of Europe’s greatest works of art, including pieces by da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Monet. Visitors can wander through the exhibition halls or take part in one of their daily drop-in drawing classes.

Getting an Unforgettable View

London is home to some incredible views, from historic riverside landmarks to towering skyscrapers. The Sky Garden at 20 Fenchurch Street offers visitors one of the best views in town – and it’s entirely free. Visitors to this rooftop garden can soak up 360-degree views of London from up high. The Sky Garden also offers plenty of lush greenery and outdoor seating areas, perfect for a relaxing break from exploring the city below.

The Shard is another great spot for unforgettable views of London. This glass skyscraper offers breathtaking views from up high. While visitors have to pay to ride up to the top, they can view the building from ground level for free.

Popular Tours in London

For those looking for a more immersive experience in London, there are plenty of tours on offer at an affordable price. One popular tour for visitors is a guided walking tour through some of London’s most iconic neighborhoods and sights. On this tour, visitors will get an up-close look at everything from Buckingham Palace and Big Ben to Covent Garden and The London Eye. Through a combination of stories and fascinating facts, visitors will gain an insight into London’s unique history and culture. Book a London Walking Tour here.

For those looking to explore further afield, a day trip out to Oxford is a great option. On this tour, visitors will get an up-close look at some of Oxford’s most famous attractions such as Christ Church College and The Ashmolean Museum as well as plenty of time for exploration along Oxford’s cobbled lanes. Book an Oxford Day Trip here.

Finally, for those with an interest in British culture, a traditional afternoon tea experience is highly recommended. This unique tour takes visitors around some of London’s most iconic spots while they sample traditional tea sandwiches and pastries as well as classic recipes like scones with clotted cream and jam. Book a London Afternoon Tea here.

Conclusion

There’s no shortage of things to do in London – especially if you’re on a budget! From exploring historical sites to taking in stunning views and sampling traditional afternoon tea recipes, there are plenty of ways to experience all that London has to offer without breaking the bank. So whether you’re looking for an immersive experience or just want to soak up some culture for free, there are plenty of things to do in London that won’t cost you a penny!