Top 5 Amazing things to do in London for free
London on a budget: Top 5 Amazing things to do for free
London is amazing to visit, but can be costly. While your regular sight seeing is free, we’ve got amazing free things you can’t miss!
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Top Places to go in london for free
Families on a Family Trip will find that exploring London’s vast array of free attractions can lead to memorable experiences. A Family Trip to London allows you to visit parks, museums, and galleries without spending money. Each Family Trip can be tailored to suit all ages, ensuring every family member has a great time! From world-class museums and stunning parks to iconic landmarks, there are plenty of ways to explore the capital without breaking the bank. Here are the top 5 free things to do in London that prove you can have an unforgettable Family Trip on a budget. A Family Trip can be exciting and enjoyable without overspending.
1. best free Museums in London
For a Family Trip that doesn’t sacrifice quality or experience, consider the many free attractions available. From parks to museums, your Family Trip will be fulfilling. One of the best things about visiting London is that so many of its world-class museums don’t cost a penny. Whether you’re travelling with kids, exploring solo, or on a family trip, you can step inside incredible galleries, historic collections, and interactive exhibits completely free of charge. Here are some of the top free museums in London to add to your list:
- The British Museum
- Natural History Museum
- Science Museum
- National Gallery, London
- Tate Modern | Tate
- Young V&A
- Horniman Museum and Gardens
Whether you’re after dinosaurs, rockets, fine art, or fashion, London’s free museums offer unforgettable experiences without costing a penny.
Tips for Visiting Free Museums in London
- Book ahead: Some popular museums (like the Natural History Museum) may require a free timed ticket, especially in school holidays.
- Donations welcome: Entry is free, but many museums suggest a small donation to help keep the collections open for all.
- Family perks: Look out for free trails, activity sheets, and kid-friendly zones that make visits even more engaging.
2. Best Markets in London
London is a city of markets — buzzing hubs where you can shop, eat, explore, and soak up the atmosphere. From historic food halls to quirky vintage stalls, each market has its own personality. Whether you’re hunting for antiques, grabbing street food, or just enjoying the vibe, here are the top markets in London worth visiting:
- Borough Market (Foodie Heaven) – London’s most famous food market, right by London Bridge.
- Covent Garden Market – A mix of handmade crafts, boutique shops, and lively street performers.
- Camden Market – A labyrinth of stalls selling vintage clothes, quirky gifts, artwork, and global street food.
- Columbia Road Flower Market – Every Sunday, this East London street bursts into colour with flowers and plants of every variety. Arrive early for the best picks (or later for bargains).
- Portobello Road Market (Notting Hill) – The world’s largest antique market, stretching for over a mile. You’ll find vintage clothes, jewellery, music, and plenty of Instagram-worthy pastel houses nearby.
- Greenwich Market – Perfect for families — this covered market combines street food with arts and crafts. Just steps away from the Cutty Sark and Greenwich Park, so easy to make a full day of it.
- Old Spitalfields Antiques Market (Thursdays) – If antiques are your thing, Thursday is the best day to visit Spitalfields. You’ll find everything from vintage silverware to rare collectibles.
- Brick Lane Market – Eclectic, vibrant, and full of character. Expect vintage clothes, street food stalls, live music, and an explosion of international flavours.
Whether you’re after dinosaurs, rockets, fine art, or fashion, London’s free museums offer unforgettable experiences without costing a penny.
Tips for Visiting London Markets
- Best times: Weekends are busiest, but also have the most stalls.
- Bring cash: Most places take cards, but small traders sometimes prefer cash.
- Plan ahead: Some markets (like Columbia Road) are only open on certain days.
- Go hungry: Many markets are foodie havens, so come with an appetite!
3. Best free Gardens in London – on the roof!
One of the best things about visiting London is that so many of its world-class museums don’t cost a penny. As you explore London, remember that every Family Trip is an opportunity to discover something new together. Whether you’re travelling with kids, exploring solo, or on a family trip, you can step inside incredible galleries, historic collections, and interactive exhibits completely free of charge. Here are some of the top free museums in London to add to your list:
- Sky Garden (The Walkie Talkie) – Located at 20 Fenchurch Street, the Sky Garden is London’s most famous free rooftop. Lush plants, landscaped terraces, and 360° views of the city make it a must-visit. Entry is free, but you need to book a ticket online in advance.
- The Garden at 120 (Fenchurch Street) – Just around the corner from the Sky Garden, this is a hidden gem. With wooden decking, water features, and wildflower areas, it’s one of the largest rooftop spaces in the City of London — and no booking required.
- Crossrail Place Roof Garden (Canary Wharf) – A futuristic roof garden sitting right above Canary Wharf station. It’s covered, so great for rainy days, and features exotic plants arranged by hemisphere to reflect London’s maritime history. (no booking required)
- Barbican Conservatory – Not exactly a rooftop, but perched above the Barbican’s concrete towers you’ll find London’s second-largest conservatory. Tropical plants, koi ponds, and towering palms make it feel like a hidden jungle in the city. Entry is free but only open on selected days.
- Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden (Southbank Centre) – A colourful garden perched on top of the Southbank Centre, complete with wildflowers, trees, and a café/bar in summer. It’s a fun stop if you’re strolling along the South Bank.
These sky-high gardens prove that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy London from above. Just bring your camera — the views are unforgettable!
Tips for Visiting London’s Rooftop Gardens
- Book ahead: The Sky Garden is free but requires online booking.
- Check opening times: Some are seasonal or closed on certain days.
- Go at sunset: Rooftop gardens offer some of the best free sunset views in the city.
- Combine with sightseeing: Many are close to attractions like the Tower of London, South Bank, or Canary Wharf.
4. Film Locations in London
London has been the backdrop for countless films, from Hollywood blockbusters to British classics. Walking through the city often feels like stepping onto a movie set — and the best part is, many of these spots are free to visit. Here are some of the most iconic film locations you can explore in London:
- Harry Potter – Diagon Alley Entrance (Leadenhall Market) – Tucked away in the City of London, Leadenhall Market is where you’ll find the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
- James Bond – MI6 Headquarters (Vauxhall) – On the south bank of the Thames sits the real-life SIS Building, instantly recognisable from Bond films including GoldenEye, Skyfall, and Spectre. You can’t go inside, but the view from Vauxhall Bridge is spot-on.
- Bridget Jones’s Diary – Borough Market & Globe Tavern – Bridget’s flat in the films is above the Globe Tavern, right beside Borough Market. The surrounding market streets and South Bank area feature heavily in her story.
- The Dark Knight Trilogy – Battersea Power Station – This iconic brick building appears in The Dark Knight Rises. Today, it’s been transformed into a shopping and leisure complex, but you can still admire its cinematic silhouette from the river.
- The King’s Speech – 33 Portland Place – The Georgian mansion where Colin Firth (as King George VI) practiced his speeches is at 33 Portland Place in Marylebone. While it’s not open to the public, the elegant street is worth a stroll.
- Paddington – Paddington Station – Of course, everyone’s favourite bear has his home at Paddington Station. You’ll find a bronze statue of Paddington Bear by Platform 1 and a dedicated Paddington shop.
Whether you’re a Harry Potter fan chasing the magic of Diagon Alley, a rom-com lover reliving Love Actually, or a Bond enthusiast spotting spy haunts, London is full of film history waiting to be explored.
Tips for Visiting Movie Locations in London
- Plan a themed walk: Harry Potter fans can combine Leadenhall Market with a stop at King’s Cross (Platform 9¾).
- Look out for film tours: Free self-guided routes are available online, or you can book guided tours for deeper behind-the-scenes stories.
- Bring a camera: Many locations are just as photogenic as they are cinematic.
5. Best sightseeing in London – from the river! Relaxing!
While technically not free, this method of getting around throws in a free sightseeing tour. The Thames Clippers (now branded as Uber Boat by Thames Clippers) are one of the most fun (and often overlooked) ways to see London. They run like river buses along the Thames, and the journey gives you some of the best views of the city’s landmarks from the water. Most boats have a toilet and bar onboard, plus you are normally able to get a seat outside of peak times – perfect for families. Here’s a guide to what you can spot along the route:
- Tower of London
- Houses of Parliament & Big Ben
- London Eye
- The Shard
- The O2 Arena
- Canary Wharf skyline
A Thames Clipper ride isn’t just a way to get from A to B — it’s a sightseeing cruise at commuter prices. Perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting to see London from a different perspective.
Tips for Your Ride
- Best route: Westminster ↔ Greenwich is the most scenic stretch.
- Timing: Sunset rides give stunning golden views and great photos.
- Seating: Grab an outside seat at the back for uninterrupted sights.
Check out where else to go
Our perspective
★★★★★
When you plan a Family Trip, think about how you can make the most of London’s free resources to enhance your experience. There is so much to see in London and your budget can go from zero to £$€s. Where we can save some money, we try, so we can spend it on things that matter, either on that trip or another. Absolute favourite – Thames Clipper. Take if from Grenwich, all through London. Best sighseeing tour ever!
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Best value Accommodation
For a getaway in London, that won’t break the bank, try Travelodge. In the centre, rooms are cheapest in the Finance district at weekends while people aren’t working. Equally, London Docklands Central is a short trip on the DLR and allows you to save money to spend on trips.
Book in advance and make use of cancelable option, just in case plans change!
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