So, you’ve booked your train tickets in advance to London and now you’re wondering what to do when you get there? We know London can be pricey, which is why we’ve put this list together of plenty of free activities for you to do!
The changing of the guard
Whether you’re a London local or just visiting for a few days, it’s worth popping along to Buckingham Palace at 5pm, to witness the changing of the guard. The ceremony, filled with pomp, circumstance and a brass band, encapsulates everything that is British.
A view of the skyline
If you don’t have £30 to drop for the view of London from the top of the Shard, it’s worth being privy to one of London’s best kept secrets. You can get an amazing view of the city from the top of the Oxo Tower. Just pop up to the 8th floor and take in the view.
Visit the Wallace Collection
Hidden away just north of Oxford Street , the Wallace Collection is a glimpse into 18th-century aristocratic life. The collection is housed within an Italianate mansion, packed out with 17th and 18th-century art.
God’s Own Junkyard
Consider visiting the work of Chris Bracey, who used neon and lightbulbs to create artwork that blended the seediness of Soho with carnival paraphernalia. If you’re passing through Walthamstow, it’s certainly worth a visit.
Visit a City farm
If you fancy feeding a goat and having a stroke of a small fluffy animal, head to one of London’s city farms. Neatly tucked between railway arches and housing estates, you’d never know that London’s urban farms were there unless you knew to look.
Head to the Actor’s Church
We all know St Paul’s Cathedral, but what about St Paul’s Church? Head to the western flank of Covent Garden Piazza, to head to the venue where the first Punch and Judy show took place in 1662.
Go Mudlarking
Mudlarking has been a London pastime since the 18th century. Simply spend some time poking around the banks of the River Thames in low-tide and see what treasures you uncover.
The Barbican
If you venture to Level G of The Barbican, you will come across as manor of installations, free events and performances. Try and visit the Conservatory if you get time. It’s the second biggest in London and home to over 1,500 species of tropical plants and exotic fish.
Sunday at Speaker’s Corner
Every Sunday morning, crowd’s gather at the speaker’s corner to hear what an individual has to say. In the past, Marx, Lenin and Orwell have all taken to the soap box to give their opinion on politics, religion, equality and more! Heckler’s welcome, to add to the debate.
Princess Diana Memorial Playground
Inspired by the story Peter Pan, the Princess Diana Memorial Playground is one of the best places to take children in all of London. Find a sensory trail, sandy areas and even water features to appease the imagination of any child, no matter how old they are.
Now, all that’s left to do is enjoy your holiday!
