How to Explore London on a Budget: 10 Must-Visit Free Attractions
London, the capital city of England, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. With its rich history, world-class museums, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this bustling metropolis. However, with so much to offer, London can also be an expensive city to visit.
Fortunately, there are plenty of free attractions in London that offer a great day out without costing a penny. From museums to galleries, parks to gardens, and iconic landmarks to unique experiences, London has a wealth of free attractions to suit all tastes and interests.
In this blog post, we will take a closer look at 10 of the best free attractions in London, including their locations, opening times, and what you can expect to see and do at each one. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, a science geek, or simply looking for a fun day out with the family, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Not only are these attractions free, but they also offer a great way to explore different parts of London and get a feel for the city’s unique character. You can immerse yourself in the history of the British Museum, marvel at contemporary art at the Tate Modern, or enjoy panoramic views of the city at the Sky Garden. Whatever your interests, London’s free attractions are a fantastic way to experience the city without breaking the bank.
Of course, it’s worth noting that while entry to these attractions is free, there may be additional charges for special exhibitions, events, or activities. It’s always a good idea to check the attraction’s website or call ahead to confirm opening times and any additional fees.
So, whether you’re a seasoned Londoner or visiting for the first time, be sure to check out these amazing free attractions. You’ll be amazed at what this city has to offer, and you might even discover a new favourite spot to add to your itinerary.
- The British Museum: The British Museum is located in Bloomsbury and is one of the world’s great museums. You can explore a vast collection of objects from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone and ancient Egyptian mummies. The museum is open every day from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm, with late opening until 8:30 pm on Fridays.
- The Tate Modern: The Tate Modern is located on the South Bank of the River Thames and is a must-visit attraction for fans of contemporary art. You can view works by some of the world’s most innovative and exciting artists, and it’s free to enter. The Tate Modern is open every day from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with late opening until 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
- The National Gallery: The National Gallery is located in Trafalgar Square and is home to some of the world’s most iconic paintings, including works by Vincent van Gogh, Leonardo da Vinci, and Rembrandt. And the best part? It’s free to visit. The National Gallery is open every day from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with late opening until 9:00 pm on Fridays.
- The Victoria and Albert Museum: The Victoria and Albert Museum is located in South Kensington and is one of the world’s greatest museums of art and design. It’s completely free to visit, and you can see everything from medieval tapestries to contemporary fashion. The Victoria and Albert Museum is open every day from 10:00 am to 5:45 pm, with late opening until 10:00 pm on Fridays.
- The Natural History Museum: The Natural History Museum is located in South Kensington and is one of the city’s most popular attractions. You can explore exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to space travel, and it’s completely free to enter. The Natural History Museum is open every day from 10:00 am to 5:50 pm.
- The Sky Garden: The Sky Garden is located at 20 Fenchurch Street in the City of London. It’s a stunning botanical garden that’s completely free to enter, and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the city skyline. The Sky Garden is open every day from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with late opening until 9:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
- The British Library: The British Library is located in St Pancras and has a collection of over 150 million items, including books, manuscripts, maps, and music scores. It’s free to enter, and you can explore the permanent exhibits or attend one of the many events or exhibitions. The British Library is open every day from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm.
- The Science Museum: The Science Museum is located in South Kensington and is a great place to learn about science and technology. You can explore interactive exhibits, watch live demonstrations, and attend special events and exhibitions. The Science Museum is open every day from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
- The Museum of London: The Museum of London is located in the City of London and is dedicated to the history of the city. You can explore the permanent exhibits, which cover everything from prehistoric times to the present day, or attend one of the many events or exhibitions. The Museum of London is open every day from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
- The Changing of the Guard: The Changing of the Guard is a quintessentially British experience that takes place at Buckingham Palace. You can watch as the guards change over, dressed in their iconic red tunics and bearskin hats. It’s completely free to watch, and you can catch the ceremony every day at 11:00 am (10:00 am on Sundays).
All of these attractions offer a great day out in London without breaking the bank. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or science, there’s something for everyone on this list. And with many of the attractions open late into the evening, you can even enjoy them after a long day of sightseeing.It’s worth noting that while entry to these attractions is free, there may be additional charges for special exhibitions, events, or activities. It’s always a good idea to check the attraction’s website or call ahead to confirm opening times and any additional fees. So why not save some money on your next trip to London and check out some of these amazing free attractions? You won’t be disappointed!