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There is no denying that London is an expensive city. It sometimes seems like it is impossible not to spend money there. Transport, accommodation, food and attractions can all add up to make for a costly stay in what is one of the world’s best cities. One of the best ways to save money is to make use of free things to see and do in London. There are so many free sights to see that it can really cut down your expenditure all whilst keeping you entertained. You never need to be bored in London, not even on the tightest of budgets.

Borough Market

Borough Market is one of London’s oldest food markets, dating back to the 12th century. Located just around the corner from London Bridge, the market is an excellent place to spend a few hours. You can soak up its atmosphere and pick up some really great food in the process. There is a great selection of fresh produce available across the market. Meats, cheeses, fruit and vegetables are all sold in abundance. What I love though is the street food. Vendors from London and far beyond cook up some delicious, quick bites to eat at very reasonable prices. I recommend eating at both Gourmet Goat and Brindisa while you are there.

Kensington Gardens

What were once the private gardens of Kensington Palace are now a 270-acre open space for the public to enjoy. Kensington Gardens is just one of eight royal parks in London. As well as being a great area to take a stroll in the sun or even do some exercise, the gardens have a lot to see. There is a memorial to Prince Albert, a Diana Memorial Playground for kids and even a Peter Pan statue. When the weather is good, this can be a great place to spend some time. Maybe bring a picnic, relax and escape the constant rush of London.

Museum of London

The Museum of London documents the history of the city from prehistoric times to the modern day. It is the best place in the city to gain an insight into this history. You can learn about the plague and the fire of London, as well as the 2012 Olympics. I always find diving into the history of my destination is a great way to appreciate the city a little bit more and gain a better understanding of its culture. London is no different and I recommend this as the place to do that.

Harrods

Harrods is by far the most famous department store in London. It is also the largest department store in all of Europe. There are 330 departments covering over 1.1 million square feet on the 5-acre site. You can find pretty much anything you like there, from clothing to electrical appliances and furniture. There is also a children’s toy shop and a food court. It is not uncommon to see visitors buying a small souvenir or a small item from the food court in order to get a Harrods carrier bag from the iconic store. Getting lost in this shop is an easy way to spend at least a couple of hours.

Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park is another of London’s Royal Parks. Located just south of the River Thames, it is part of the Greenwich World Heritage Site. A walk through the gardens can be a step back in time, following in the footsteps of royalty who would have walked these grounds. There is a very tranquil flower garden and you will also find the Royal Observatory there. What is most impressive though, is the view. From Greenwich Park, you will get an amazing view of the river and the city of London. On a sunny day especially, nowhere in the city can boast a view as good as this, especially for free.

Camden Market

Another market that you must visit during your time in London is Camden Market. This one has a much different atmosphere and style than the aforementioned Borough Market. Camden Market is popular with punks and a younger crowd. Some of the stalls and items on sale can be very out of the ordinary, to say the least. It is a great place to spend some time. You can pick up some very nice food, and maybe find yourself a bargain on what could turn out to be a very unique item. Camden Market is my personal favourite place to visit in London.

Natural History Museum

The museum exhibits a large range of items from various segments of natural history. The museum is a fun way to spend half a day, learning about animals, wildlife, dinosaurs and much more. I especially recommend you to visit if you are travelling with kids. Entrance to the museum is free. The majority of the time there are special exhibitions taking place and these will have an entrance fee. There is still plenty to see and do there though, without spending a penny.

Leicester Square/Chinatown

Leicester Square is a pedestrianized square in London’s west end that has become the centre of entertainment in the city. The square is home to many theatres. During the day, you will find tourists shopping and eating but at night it really comes alive. Stage productions and comedy shows are happening everywhere you look. It has a real buzz about it. You may even find yourself with an opportunity to pick up last minute, cheap tickets. Around the corner from Leicester Square is London’s Chinatown. This hustle and bustle filled area offers a completely different atmosphere to anywhere else in the city. Restaurants, supermarkets, street performers and more line the streets. I don’t personally like eating in these two areas, but I love to come and people watch every time I am in London.

Visit An Art Gallery

Another very popular free activity in London is to visit an art gallery. Some of the best in the world are in London and the fact that they have no admission fee makes visiting them a must. Both the National Gallery and the British Museum are free to visitors. The National Gallery located overlooking Trafalgar Square is home to some very famed artworks such as Van Gogh’s Sunflowers. The British Museum has its fair share of paintings but you will also find artefacts and art pieces from all over the world. Egyptian Mummies and sculptures from Ancient Greece are just some of what is on show there. Both of these museums make for a great visit, even if you are not an art lover.

Covent Garden

There are very few areas in London that could claim to be as picturesque as Covent Garden. The elegant piazza is home to fashion stores and cute cafés. There is also the Apple Market, where you can find some unique handmade crafts. The area is usually full of street performers whether they be singers, musicians or gymnasts busking for a few pounds, keeping the crowds entertained in the process. In the area, there is also the London Transport Museum and St. Paul’s Church. On a good summers day, there may be no place finer in London to be.

Changing of the Guard

This is a real tourist attraction that is available free of charge. This is the changing of the Queen’s guards outside of Buckingham Palace. To grab a good view make sure you are outside early, only then will you get close enough to the gates to see the procession. The closer you are, the better view you will have of the forecourt as it takes place. The ceremony takes place at 11:00 Monday to Saturday and at 10:00 on Sunday. The entire ceremony lasts for 30 minutes.

The beauty of London is that you are never short of things to do. The underground can take you around to any part of the city you want in such a short space of time. You can plan a daily itinerary that covers major ground but yet is all still very accessible. This is great for avoiding spending money. You can always find things to see and do for free in London. It is not a city to visit with tight purse strings but it is always nice to cut costs in any way that you can. These free things to see and do in London are just some of many in what is a huge city. If you would like to read about budget-friendly eating options available in the city, I suggest clicking here.

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The Roaming Irishman

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