19 Must Visit Places in London for Free 2024
London wears the badge of one of Europe's most expensive capitals, but the city also offers plenty of beautiful spots that are completely free to visit.
In this article, I'll take you on a journey to unlock the secrets of visiting London for free.
As a local resident, I've spent years exploring this vibrant city on a budget, and I'm excited to share an extended list of places and hidden gems that will allow you to experience the magic of London on a budget.
From hidden rooftop gardens to iconic cultural landmarks, below are my top recommendations:
ROOFTOP ESCAPES
London's skyline is like a treasure map; from above, this city reveals countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from these free access rooftop gardens and terraces.
1 | The Sky Garden, nestled atop the Walkie Talkie building, holds a special place in my heart as one of my favourite spots to enjoy a 360-degree view of the city. The name of this place comes from its innovative integration of a botanical landscape amidst the urban skyline. The space features a meticulously curated garden, including tropical plants, ferns, and even a variety of exotic species. The juxtaposition of nature and architecture in the Sky Garden makes it a truly unique destination in London. Having spent a year working on the 36th floor, I can assure that its charm is truly irresistible, especially at sunset. While entry is free, it's essential to book your ticket in advance to secure your spot.
2 | The Garden at 120, situated atop the Fen Court building, offers a serene escape amidst London's urban landscape. With panoramic views of iconic landmarks, this rooftop oasis features landscaped gardens, seating areas, and contemporary sculptures. Access is free to the public, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoyment. Simply head to the building's entrance and take the elevator to the top floor to experience this hidden gem firsthand.
3 | The Post Building rooftop in London offers a unique vantage point to soak in panoramic views of the city skyline. Located in the heart of Fitzrovia, this hidden gem boasts a stylish rooftop terrace with cozy seating areas and atmospheric lighting, creating the perfect ambiance for relaxation and socialising. While access may vary depending on events, visitors can often enjoy this rooftop retreat by accessing the building's upper floors for free
4 | The One New Change rooftop terrace is a popular destination for stunning views of the city's iconic landmarks, especially St. Paul's Cathedral located right in front of you. Situated atop a modern shopping centre in the heart of the financial district, this rooftop terrace offers a sophisticated setting with stylish bars and restaurants. Accessible to the public, visitors can reach the rooftop via elevators within the One New Change building.
NEIGHBOURHOODS & WALKS
No visit to London would be complete without exploring its quirky neighbourhoods and hidden corners.
5 | Neal's Yard, close to Covent Garden and Leicester Square, is a vibrant alleyway adorned with colourful buildings, charming cafes and independent shops. It's the perfect spot to soak in the bohemian atmosphere.
6 | Spitalfields has a bustling yet laid-back vibe, blending historic charm with contemporary creativity. Home to the captivating "Herd of Hope" sculpture of elephants that raise awareness for conservation efforts, this area entices passersby with its unique art installations, vintage shops and bustling markets.
7 | Central London Walk: embark on an immersive walk through Central London's vibrant neighbourhoods, starting at Covent Garden's lively market and street performers. Continue to Leicester Square's theatres and cinemas, then to iconic Trafalgar Square with its historic landmarks. Explore the eclectic streets of Soho, known for its lively atmosphere and diverse dining options. Conclude your journey in Carnaby Street, a fashion hub buzzing with trendy boutiques. This immersive walk typically takes around 2-3 hours to complete, each area showcasing its unique charm and energy is completely free to access. .
8 | Thames Walk: experience the rich heritage of London with a scenic Thames Walk, from the modern marvels of the London Eye and the Shard to historic landmarks like St. Paul's Cathedral, Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. Pass by the iconic Millennium Bridge and Shakespeare’s Globe, immersing yourself in the city's vibrant past and present. This immersive journey offers a captivating blend of architecture, history, and culture, ideal for a free afternoon exploration.
PARKS & GARDENS
With its extensive network of parks, gardens, and green spaces, London is recognized as one of the greenest capitals in Europe. This city offers residents and tourists many opportunities to escape the urban hustle and bustle and connect with nature for free.
For a walk on a sunny day, these are my top suggestions:
9 | Hyde Park offers a largely serene escape with tranquil lakes and iconic landmarks like the Serpentine. Don't miss the tranquil Italian Gardens, a hidden gem of serenity.
10 | Greenwich Park: wander through its historic landmarks, vibrant gardens, and peaceful pathways, and don't forget to head to the top of the hill, where the Royal Observatory awaits, offering a breathtaking view of the entire city.
11 | Regent’s Park: discover the beauty of this park in north London, home to stunning rose gardens and wide-open spaces perfect for a casual walk or a picnic with friends and family. Walk to the top of Primrose Hill for stunning views of the city skyline.
12 | Hampstead Heath: Immerse yourself in nature at Hampstead Heath, where vast open fields, ancient woodlands, and tranquil ponds await. Relax on Parliament Hill and soak in panoramic views of the London skyline from a distance..
13 | Holland Park: Step into the serene ambiance of Holland Park and explore its enchanting Kyoto Garden, a tranquil oasis inspired by traditional Japanese design. Discover lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and serene ponds in this hidden gem of London.
MUSEUMS & CULTURAL TREASURES
Immerse yourself in London's rich tapestry of history and culture at its world-class museums and galleries. Fortunately, many of these cultural institutions offer free admission, making them accessible to all.
14 | The Natural History Museum is a must-visit for nature lovers, with its impressive collection of dinosaur skeletons and interactive exhibits. Here, you can delve into the mysteries of the natural world.
15 | The British Museum is another must-see attraction, housing a vast collection of artefacts encompassing thousands of years of human history.
16 | Literary enthusiasts won't want to miss the British Library, a treasure of knowledge housing rare manuscripts, literary classics, and historical documents.
17| For art lovers, the National Gallery offers an unparalleled collection of masterpieces by artists like Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt.
18 | For a more intimate experience, visit Sir John Soane's Museum, a historic house museum that showcases the eclectic collections of the renowned architect. From ancient sculptures to Egyptian artefacts, this hidden gem offers a fascinating glimpse into Soane's creative mind.
19 | Tate Modern: housed in a former power station, this iconic museum showcases an extensive collection of contemporary and modern art from around the world. Visitors can explore diverse exhibitions, innovative installations, and stunning artworks by renowned artists. Don’t miss the panoramic view of the city and make your way to the 10th-floor terrace.
Visiting London on a budget doesn't mean sacrificing quality experiences.
Whether you're admiring panoramic views from a rooftop garden, discovering hidden gems in the city's vibrant neighbourhoods, or immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of London's cultural heritage, there's no shortage of free attractions waiting to be explored.
Pack your sense of adventure and embark on a budget-friendly exploration through the streets of London,
Buon viaggio!
“Better late than never”