11 of the best free things to do in London

London has a bit of a reputation for being pricey. And yes, a pint might set you back more than you’d like, but here’s the thing – some of the very best experiences in England's capital won’t cost you a penny. From museums to sky-high views, leafy park walks and buzzing neighborhoods, London is bursting with free things to do.

Perfect if you’re visiting on a budget – or just want to save your money for a proper Sunday roast afterward. Here’s our insider’s guide to 11 of the best free things to do in London.

1. Marvel at the treasures of the British Museum

The V&A, Science Museum, Natural History Museum and the Imperial War Museum – it’s been years since the government decided to roll out free entry to a shedload of the capital’s museums. If there’s one you shouldn’t miss, it’s the British Museum in Bloomsbury. Think ancient mummies, the Rosetta Stone, samurai armor and more than two million years of history under one roof.

Expert tip: The museum gets busy around midday, so go early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a calmer wander. And don’t miss the Great Court – the glass roof is a stunner.

2. Soak up city views at the Sky Garden

There’s no need to pay for sweeping views in London. So skip the Shard and head up the Walkie Talkie building instead. Just across the river, this building’s home to the impressive Sky Garden. Inside, the lush gardens bloom with plants and there are two restaurants and a bar. From the al fresco viewing platform, you’ll be treated to panoramas of the Thames and St Paul’s. Other options for those seeking views on a budget include Parliament Hill, Primrose Hill and The Garden at 120.

Expert tip: Tickets are free, but you need to book in advance and slots get booked up fast.

3. Wander through the National Gallery

Free art galleries in London are ten a penny. Right in the heart of Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery is home to works by Van Gogh, Monet and Turner – and yes, it’s all free to see. It’s the perfect escape from the bustle outside, and a must for art lovers. It’s not the only free-to-enter art gallery in London, either – you’ve also got the Tate Britain and Tate Modern, both of which sit on scenic postcodes along the Thames.

Expert tip: After your visit, head to the nearby National Portrait Gallery (also free) to see portraits of everyone from Shakespeare to the Spice Girls.

4. Get lost in Camden Market and along Regent’s Canal

London’s markets are a treat for the senses, and Camden Market is one of the most colorful and chaotic (in the best way possible). You’ll find vintage clothes, quirky art and food stalls from every corner of the globe. While the shopping isn’t free, wandering and soaking up the atmosphere certainly is.

Expert tip: Walk along Regent’s Canal from Camden to Little Venice – it’s a beautiful stroll and surprisingly peaceful once you’re by the water.

5. Enjoy green spaces in Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens

For such a metropolis, London has some surprisingly green lungs. There are more than 3,000 parks within the city. And there’s something different to do or see in each one. Hyde Park is the granddaddy, with open meadows and boating on the Serpentine. Wander west into Kensington Gardens to find the beautiful Albert Memorial and Kensington Palace (the gardens are free, even if the palace isn’t!). Further out, you’ve got Richmond Park, famous for its free-roaming deer, or Crystal Palace Park with its iconic dinosaur sculptures.

Expert tip: If you’re here in summer, look out for the rose garden near Hyde Park Corner – it’s at its most fragrant in June.

6. Explore the South Bank

One of the best free things to do in central London is just walk. Start at Tower Bridge and follow the Thames along the South Bank. You’ll pass Shakespeare’s Globe, the Tate Modern, street performers, food markets and unbeatable river views. If you’ve got more steps left in you, then continue on to reach the Southbank Centre, the London Eye and Jubilee Gardens.

Expert tip: Time your walk for late afternoon, then cross the river at Waterloo Bridge – the skyline view at sunset is one of the best in London.

7. Discover history at the Museum of London Docklands

A little less well-known than its central cousin, the Museum of London Docklands, in Canary Wharf, is a gem – and free, no need to book ahead. It tells the story of London’s river trade and growth, with everything from tales of pirates to exhibits about the Blitz.

Expert tip: The museum is brilliant for kids, with plenty of interactive displays and a dedicated Mudlarks gallery with soft play, dress-up and a water table.

8. Meet the animals at Golders Hill Park Zoo

After more free things to do in London with kids? Try a city farm. We bet you didn’t think you could see sheeps, donkeys and wallabies in the heart of the city, all for free. Golders Hill Park Zoo gets top billing for its exotic animals, like ring-tailed lemurs and wildcat. But there are city farms in Stepney, Vauxhall, Kentish Town and Spitafields, to name just a few. Hackney City Farm is a good one to visit on the way between Broadway Market and Columbia Road.

Expert tip: Make sure to check opening times, as some of the smaller farms are only open Tuesday to Sunday.

9. Browse Borough Market (with your nose, if not your wallet)

Yes, the food at Borough Market will tempt you to spend, but you don’t have to. Stroll around this foodie paradise near London Bridge, soak up the atmosphere, and breathe in the smells of fresh bread, sizzling street food and artisan cheese. There are over 100 stalls to choose from, so you’re spoiled for choice.

Expert tip: Visit midweek in the morning for fewer crowds, then pop over to Southwark Cathedral next door – it’s one of London’s oldest churches, and free to enter.

10. Explore Notting Hill & Portobello Road

Colorful houses, film-famous streets and one of the world’s biggest antiques markets – Notting Hill is a delight to wander around. Even if you’re not shopping, exploring Portobello Road and snapping a few photos is a joy. Plus, film fans will want to visit the famous bookshop that inspired Notting Hill.

Expert tip: Saturdays are busiest, but if you go on a weekday you’ll get the pastel streets pretty much to yourself. Perfect for Instagram.

11. Stroll through Greenwich and stand on the Meridian Line

A trip to Greenwich is one of London’s best free days out. Explore the historic town center, admire the stunning Old Royal Naval College (you might recognize it from films like Les Misérables, Thor and Skyfall), and relax in Greenwich Park with sweeping views back to the City.

Expert tip: While you have to pay to enter the Royal Observatory, you can still straddle the famous Prime Meridian Line just outside the gates – for free.

So there you have it – proof that you don’t need deep pockets to enjoy London. Now take a look at our cheap hotel deals in London and grab yourself a bargain stay in England's capital.