London on a Budget: 16 Free Things to Do this Summer

Visiting London doesn’t have to burn a hole in your pocket. Here’s our short-list of the top 16 things to do and see on a budget.

1. Explore the Natural History Museum, and discover over 80 million specimens spanning billions of years. If mineralogy and palaeontology aren’t really your thing, it’s still worth visiting just to admire the building’s striking architecture.   

   Nearest tube: South Kensington

2. Unwind in an exotic paradise in the Barbican conservatory, which is home to tropical plants, trees, and fish.

   Nearest tube: Moorgate, Barbican, Liverpool Street

3. Escape the concrete jungle and get lost in the ancient woodland at Highgate Wood.

   Nearest tube: Highgate

4. Admire a spectacular view of the capital from the top of Primrose Hill, Regent’s Park.

   Nearest tube: Regent’s Park

5. Your visit to London doesn’t really count unless you get a selfie in front of Big Ben.

   Nearest tube: Westminster, St James’s Park

6. Follow in the footsteps of the Fab Four and strut across the famous zebra crossing on Abbey Road, which featured on the eponymous album cover.

   Nearest tube: St John’s Wood, Maida Vale

7. Enjoy an afternoon of innovative modern art by young and international artists in the palatial Saatchi Gallery.

   Nearest tube: Sloane Square

8. Make the most of your lunch hour or commute home at one of the Royal College of Music’s free lunchtime (1.05pm) and rush-hour concerts (6pm & 6.30pm).

   Various locations, visit their website.

9. Soak up the atmosphere and be dazzled at one of London’s most unique markets: Columbia Road Flower Market.

   Every Sunday, 8am-3pm. Nearest tube: Old Street

10. Perch on the cobbled steps of Covent Garden and be entertained by busking string quartets and street performers.

    Nearest tube: Covent Garden

11. Any trip to London isn’t complete without a visit to Trafalgar Square, home to Nelson’s Column, the famous stone lions, and the Fourth Plinth.

    Nearest tube: Charing Cross, Embankment

12. Walk and talk and squawk with the animals, and unleash your inner Doctor Dolittle at Vauxhall City Farm.

    Nearest tube: Vauxhall

13. Laughter is free every night of the week at Angel Comedy Club.

    Nearest tube: Angel, Kings Cross, Highbury & Islington

14. Dabble in a bit of history at Southwark Cathedral – the oldest cathedral church building in the capital.

    Nearest tube: London Bridge, Borough, Southwark

15. Take in the tempting sights, sounds, and smells of Borough Market, home to some of the best food traders, artisans and producers from around the globe.

    Nearest tube: London Bridge, Borough, Southwark

16. Wander through the quaint streets of Richmond, and pay a visit to one of its many historic houses and gardens. Finish the day by watching the sun set over the tranquil River Thames.

    Nearest tube: Richmond