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London is often thought of as one of the most expensive cities in the world, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, some of the best experiences in the city won’t cost you a single penny.
During the three years I lived in London at university, I made it my mission to explore everything this incredible city has to offer, without spending a fortune. In this guide, we’re sharing all of the best free things to do in London for 2025.
London's Free Rooftop Gardens & Viewing Platforms
London has one of the most iconic skylines and what better way to soak in the city's panoramic beauty than from these rooftop gardens? As someone who's explored every corner of London, I've discovered some of the best free viewing platforms that offer breath-taking views over the city.
Sky Garden
Located in the iconic "Walkie Talkie" building, the Sky Garden is one of London’s most iconic viewing platforms. Unlike traditional observation decks, this space offers a lush, greenhouse-like environment where you can wander among tropical plants while admiring panoramic views of the city.
With a 360-degree panoramic view, you’ll be able to see all of London, from the River Thames winding below to the historic skyline.Tip: While entry is free, you'll need to book a time slot in advance. It can get booked up weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons so plan ahead.
The Garden at 120
Tucked away in the heart of London, The Garden at 120 is a hidden gem that most tourists completely miss. Located next to the Sky Garden, this outdoor rooftop offers a surprisingly serene escape from the bustling city below.
The views might not be as expansive as Sky Garden, but you can still see plenty of London’s landmarks.
Crossrail Place Roof Garden
This roof garden is located in Canary Wharf, and its main feature is the geometric structure that creates a unique microclimate that supports a variety of plants from around the world.
Wooden walkways wind through lush greenery and the surrounded skyscrapers peak through the geometric structure. This one is less about the panoramic views and more about experiencing unique architecture and lush gardens.
Horizon 22
Another gem in the Shoreditch area, Horizon 22 is the highest free viewing platform in London, offering incredible panoramic views over the city. While it’s slightly more compact than the other observation decks, the views you get over London make up for it.
More London rooftops 👇
Chloe Butcher
London's Best Markets
London is known for having some of the best markets in Europe, from mouth watering street food to vintage finds, these markets offer an authentic side of city life and the best part is most can be explored without spending a penny.
Borough Market
Located in the heart of Southwark, Borough Market is one of London’s most loved food markets. You’ll find fresh fruit and vegetables, meats, fish, artisan cheeses, freshly baked breads, exotic spices, and local delicacies. While buying a full meal might require some cash, the market is a paradise of free food samples.
Camden Market
Camden Market, London’s largest and most vibrant market, is home to over 1000 unique shops, stalls, cafes and bars, and is full of eclectic and quirky items.
The market is actually spread across three different sections; Camden Lock, Stables Market and Hawley Wharf, and caters to all tastes with its mix of local boutiques, diverse food stalls, and vintage gems.
Portobello Road Market
One of the most famous markets in London is Portobello Road Market, located in the colourful Notting Hill area. Every Saturday, the street transforms into a vibrant showcase of antiques, vintage clothing, and quirky collectibles.
Combine this with a walk around the neighbourhood to see the iconic pastel-coloured houses, and you’ve got a completely free afternoon in the heart of London.
Old Spitalfields Market
Located in Shoreditch is Old Spitalfields Market, one of our favourite markets in London. Once a traditional market, it has now evolved into a vibrant space of arts and crafts, vintage fashion, designer shops and delicious street food.
It's worth a visit to wander around the stalls and take in the unique crafts, or if you’re willing to spend some money, try some of the mouth watering street food.
London's Free Hidden Gems
After years of exploring London's streets, I've discovered that the city's magic lies not in its famous landmarks, but in its hidden corners. These four unique locations reveal a side of London that most tourists never see.
Barbican Conservatory
Often described as a ‘concrete jungle’, the Barbican Conservatory is a free to visit greenhouse located in the Barbican Centre and is London's second-largest conservatory.
It’s feels completely removed from the urban landscape outside, with exotic plants covering the indoor building. Make sure to check the Barbican's website for opening times, as the conservatory isn't open every day and can have limited visiting hours.
God's Own Junkyard
If you love an instagrammable location, then you have to check out God's Own Junkyard; a warehouse-turned-gallery housing a collection of rescued and created neon signs.
Imagine walking into a space where every wall, ceiling, and corner is covered in glowing, colorful neon art - including movie props, salvaged signs, and original artworks.
St Dunstan in the East
Tucked away in the financial district, St Dunstan in the East is a hidden gem that feels like a scene from a forgotten fairy tale. What was once a medieval church, severely damaged during the Blitz, has been transformed into a peaceful public garden with Ivy-covered walls and ancient stone arches.
Neal's Yard
Neal's Yard is a tiny colourful courtyard hidden away in the streets of Covent Garden. You’ll find independent shops and quirky cafes that have been painted vibrant colours, but if you don’t want to spend anything, simply wandering around and photographing this unique space costs nothing.
A less touristy 2-day itinerary 👇
Chloe Butcher
London’s Free Museums
One of the best things about London is its huge collection of free museums. On a rainy day, there’s no better way to spend your time than diving into some of the world’s most fascinating and iconic cultural institutions!
British Museum
The British Museum is known for its vast collection of artifacts from around the world that tell the story of human history. You can see everything from the iconic Rosetta Stone to ancient Egyptian mummies.
Natural History Museum
Home to some of the most impressive dinosaur skeletons you’ll ever see, the Natural History Museum is a must-visit for anyone fascinated by the natural world. Beyond dinosaurs, you can explore geological wonders, sparkling gemstones, and interactive exhibits that bring science to life.
Science Museum
Right next door to the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum showcases everything from space exploration to cutting-edge technology.
Tate Modern
The Tate Modern is a modern and contemporary art museum located in a converted power station on the South Bank. You can explore quirky art installations, then head to the free viewing platform for breathtaking panoramic views of the Thames and London’s skyline.
Victoria and Albert Museum
Known as the V&A, this museum is a celebration of art, design, and fashion. From intricate jewelry to dramatic costumes and furniture, the collections span centuries of creativity. The stunning architecture of the museum itself is worth the visit.
National Gallery
If you’re an art lover, you won’t want to miss the National Gallery, home to a collection of paintings by some of history’s greatest artists like Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Monet and so many more.
London’s Parks and Gardens
London is full of beautiful green spaces that are perfect for escaping the busy streets and relaxing in nature. There are hundreds of parks to choose from, but here are a few of our favourites:
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of London’s largest and most iconic parks, and is where you’ll find festivals in the summer and winter wonderland in the winter. You can take a walk along the Serpentine, rent a pedal boat, or walk through the acres of woodlands.
Regent’s Park & Primrose Hill
Regent’s Park has some beautiful gardens and open spaces to walk through like the Japanese Garden Island and Queen Mary's Rose Gardens. It's also close to Primrose Hill, where you’ll be able to find some great views of London’s Skyline.
Green Park & St James's Park
Green Park and St James’s park are located next to each other and just a short walk from Hyde Park. St James's Park, one of London’s oldest and most beautiful parks, has a picturesque lake filled with swans and great views of Buckingham Palace. Green Park is a peaceful green space, with its wide, tree-lined paths right next to the palace.
Greenwich Park
Head to Greenwich Park for some of the best views of London’s skyline. From here, you can see landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Shard in the distance. While you're there, you can also stand on the Prime Meridian Line, marking the zero degrees longitude.
Richmond Park
If you’re looking for a peaceful day out in nature, Richmond Park is a must-visit. Located just 30 minutes from central London, it’s known for its free-roaming deer and vast, natural beauty; this park feels more like the countryside than the city.
Be prepared to walk around if you’re trying to find deer, it's a fairly large area and it did take us a while to find them!
The best London photo spots 👇
Chloe Butcher
London’s Picturesque Neighbourhoods
London is a city made up of diverse and colourful neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character. You could spend hours just wandering around the picturesque streets filled with colourful houses, quaint shops and trendy cafes.
Covent GardenCovent Garden is a lively and historic neighbourhood known for its street performers, independent boutiques, and the iconic Apple Market. Explore its cobbled streets, market stalls, boutique shops and independent cafes while watching the talented buskers.
Camden Town
Camden Town is a must-visit area in London with its artsy vibe, unique markets and vibrant street art. You’ll find cafes, cool pubs and plenty of retro shops. You can also walk along the canal, which is really beautiful and peaceful, especially in the summer.
Shoreditch
Shoreditch is a trendy area of London filled with eccentric bars, cafes, galleries and markets among the towering skyscrapers. Make sure to check out Brick Lane, famous for its curry houses, vintage shops, and street art.
Notting Hill
Known for its colourful houses, charming streets and the famous Portobello Road Market, Notting Hill is a beautiful neighbourhood that captures the essence of London’s west side. Explore its boutique shops, cafes and art galleries, or simply wander around the photogenic streets lined with pastel-coloured buildings.
Chinatown
Tucked between Leicester Square and Soho, Chinatown offers a mix of culture, food, and shopping. The neighbourhood comes alive with its colourful lanterns, Asian-inspired architecture, and delicious restaurants.
Richmond
For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Richmond, a riverside neighbourhood that feels like a village despite being part of Greater London. Known for its leafy streets, beautiful parks, and the scenic Thames riverside, Richmond offers a peaceful escape with plenty of green space and quaint cafes. You might recognise it if you’ve watched Ted Lasso!
London Travel Resources
Planning a trip to London? Check out our recommended travel resources for attractions, flights, hotels & more.
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