Free Sights In London

London is one of the most incredible cities in the world, with a long and fascinating history that stretches back to Roman times. Home to 8.9 million people, it’s a bustling metropolis of art, culture and commerce, and it’s a cultural hub for the UK and Europe. With so much to do and see, it can be hard to know where to start. Luckily, many of London’s top sights are free to visit, making it easy to explore this incredible city without breaking the bank.

A Brief History of London

London is a city steeped in history and culture. It has been the capital of England since the 12th century and is full of beautiful landmarks and monuments that tell its story. From the Tower of London and the Houses of Parliament to Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey, there is something for everyone to explore.

The city has seen many different eras, from the Roman period when it was known as Londinium, to the medieval era when it was a flourishing center of trade and commerce, to the modern era when it became a world-famous tourist destination. Throughout its history, London has been home to some of the world’s greatest writers, artists and inventors, including William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens and Isaac Newton.

Famous Landmarks

London is well-known for its iconic landmarks and monuments, many of which are free to visit. The oldest surviving structure in the city is the Tower of London, which dates back to 1078. The Tower is a complex of buildings that were used as a royal residence and fortress by various kings and queens throughout history. Today it houses the Crown Jewels, which are one of the most popular attractions in the city.

The Houses of Parliament are also a must-see for anyone visiting London. This iconic building is home to the UK’s government and is a symbol of democracy for the country. Visitors are welcome to take a guided tour of the building and its grounds, as well as explore the House of Commons and House of Lords chambers.

Buckingham Palace is another popular destination in London. This grand palace is the official residence of the British royal family, and visitors can take a guided tour of its stunning state rooms and gardens. It’s also worth noting that every day at 11:30am, the Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place at Buckingham Palace, which is free to watch.

Westminster Abbey is also worth a visit. This beautiful Gothic building has been a place of worship since 1065 and has seen 16 royal weddings, including that of Prince William and Kate Middleton. Tours of Westminster Abbey are available for a fee, but visitors can also explore the grounds for free.

Museums & Art Galleries

London is home to some of the world’s best museums and art galleries, many of which are free to enter. The British Museum is a great place to start for anyone interested in history or archaeology. Here you can explore ancient artefacts from all over the world, including Egyptian mummies and Roman statues.

The National Gallery is another popular museum in London. This museum houses an impressive collection of European art from the 13th century all the way up to present day, with works from artists such as Rembrandt, Van Gogh and Monet. Entry is free, but there are additional charges for certain exhibitions and events.

The Tate Modern is another must-visit museum in London. This modern art gallery features works from 1900 up until today, including pieces by Picasso, Matisse and Warhol. The Tate Modern also has an impressive collection of international art from countries such as Japan, China and India.

For those interested in science and technology, the Science Museum is a great choice. Here you can explore interactive exhibits covering topics such as space exploration, robotics and genetics. The museum also has a simulator ride which takes visitors on a journey through time and space – this comes with an additional fee but is well worth it!

Parks & Gardens

London is home to some beautiful parks and gardens that make for a great day out. Hyde Park is one of the largest green spaces in the city and is popular with locals and tourists alike. This park has numerous attractions including Serpentine lake, Speakers’ Corner – where open-air debates have been held since 1872 – and Kensington Gardens which features stunning landscapes designed by renowned landscape architect Capability Brown.

Greenwich Park is another popular park in London. This park has something for everyone, from stunning gardens to outdoor sports facilities. It also offers fantastic views of the city skyline from its hilltop position.

St James’s Park is one of London’s oldest parks and offers visitors a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. Here you can stroll along its picturesque lake or enjoy one of its many outdoor events throughout the year such as summer concerts and food festivals.

Popular Activities

London has something for everyone to enjoy, no matter your interests or budget. One popular activity is exploring the city’s street art scene – there are plenty of great spots around town where you can find unique works from local artists.

Shopping is also popular in London – whether you’re after designer clothing or vintage finds. There are plenty of markets around town where you can pick up unique items from local vendors, such as Camden Market or Brick Lane Market.

For those looking for more culture, there are plenty of theatres around town offering performances from world-renowned acts – these can range from musicals to stand-up comedy shows – so there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Popular Tours

London has many incredible tours available that will give you an insight into its unique history and culture. One popular tour is offered by Viator – this two-hour tour will take you through some of London’s most iconic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and more. You’ll learn about their fascinating history as you explore their beautiful grounds and get insider tips from your tour guide about the best places to eat and drink in the city. With this tour you’ll be able to experience London like a local!

Another great tour available on Viator is their ‘London at Night’ walking tour. With this tour you’ll get an after-dark exploration of some of London’s most iconic landmarks such as Piccadilly Circus, Tower Bridge and Trafalgar Square with your knowledgeable guide providing interesting facts along the way. This tour will give you a unique perspective on London that you won’t find during daytime hours!

For those looking for something a little different then GetYourGuide offers an ‘Alternative London Tour’. On this three-hour walking tour you’ll explore some of the more off-the-beaten-track locations around town such as Brick Lane’s street art scene or Soho’s hidden gems – all while learning about local life in London from your fun and friendly guide!

Conclusion

London is an incredible city that has something for everyone to enjoy – whether you’re interested in culture, art or simply exploring new places there’s something here for everyone! With so many free sights to discover it’s easy to explore this incredible city without breaking the bank – from iconic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace to beautiful parks like Hyde Park and everything in between – London has something for everyone!