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10 free things to do in London

The UK’s iconic capital is bursting with historic attractions, fascinating museums and beautiful parks, all available to enjoy for free – Here are 10 free things to do in London so you can make your trip a Travelodgical one.

1. Discover the dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum

10 free things London

A true London icon, the Natural History Museum is home to an enormous collection of fossils and specimens from the natural world, with some pieces dating back millions of years. The museum’s main attraction has to be its fascinating dinosaur exhibition, complete with an impressive, lifelike and very loud animatronic T-Rex.

Cromwell Rd, London SW7 5BD. Open 10am – 5.50pm every day.

2. Meet Peter Pan at Kensington Gardens

10 free things London

From Hyde Park to Hampstead Heath, London is full of beautiful gardens and green spaces – but if you can only visit one, it has to be Kensington Gardens.

Once the private gardens of Kensington Palace, you’ll still feel the regal atmosphere as you stroll along formal avenues of magnificent trees and ornamental flower beds towards the magical Peter Pan Statue and the popular Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground.

Kensington, London W2 2UH. Opening times here

3. Get your hands on a real gold bar at the Bank of England museum

Keep your eye on the pennies at this fascinating museum where you can discover more about the role of the Bank of England, see notes and coins from yesteryear, and even hold a real gold bar! There’s also many fun interactive activities for the kids to do where they can learn more about the important role money plays in society.

Bartholomew Lane, London EC2R 8AH. Open Monday- Friday 10am – 5pm excluding Bank Holidays

4. Unleash your inner child at the V&A Museum of Childhood

Try something a little different at the V&A Museum of Childhood. This unique museum houses the UK’s national collection of childhood objects, with toys ranging from the 1600s to the present day.

You’ll be able to reminisce as you see the toys of your youth, dig in to the museum’s fancy-dress box and see how children have played throughout the ages. Perfect for big kids and little kids alike!

Cambridge Heath Rd, London E2 9PA. Open 10am – 5.45pm every day.

5. Take a relaxing walk through Little Venice

Escape the hustle and bustle of central London and enjoy a riverside walk at an entirely different pace at Little Venice. This picturesque pool of water is full of pretty waterside cafes. A walk along the river gives you the chance to see London from a unique point of view. A walk downstream on the canal path will take you past Maida Vale and onto Camden and Regents Park. Camden Lock is also nearby with a trip on a narrowboat. In 45 minutes you can be at Camden market where you can explore and buy some of the quirky goods on offer.

Blomfield Road, Pool of Little Venice, London W9 2PF

6. Get wild with the animals at Hackney City Farm

10 free things London

A great day out for kids, Hackney City Farm is the perfect place to discover a bit of the countryside in the heart of the city.

The farm is thriving with friendly farmyard animals including sheep, chickens, goats and donkeys, and you’ll even be able to take part in a pottery class and sample fresh vegetables at the farm’s Frizzante restaurant.

1a Goldsmiths Row, London E2 8QA. Open 10am – 4.30pm every day.

7. Feel inspired at the Tate Modern

10 free things London

London has always been known as an inspiring hub for creativity, and you can see some of the world’s most exciting and forward-thinking pieces of art at the Tate Modern. The museum features work from famous creative minds as well as amazing pieces from newer artists. The gallery is also home to many diverse events and exhibits that change throughout the year, some of which are free to visitors so if you’re after a budget day out, the Tate is definitely a place worth considering.

Bankside, London SE1 9TG. Open 10am – 6pm Sunday – Thursday and 10am – 10pm Thursday – Friday.

8. Have a giggle at Angel Comedy Club

Who says you have to pay a fortune for good entertainment? The Angel Comedy Club offers free comedy shows almost every night, with acts varying from up-and-coming comedians to big names such as Dara O’Briain, Russell Howard and Tim Vine. Make sure you get in early though, as it can get busy very quickly.

2 Islington High St, London N1 8DY. Open 7pm – 10.30pm every day.

9. Discover film history at the BFI Mediatheque

The BFI is the home of British film, and you can enjoy some TV and film classics for absolutely free at the BFI Mediatheque. You’ll be able to choose from over 2,500 highlights from their archives, including British TV favourites, famous films and rare home footage which offer an intimate glimpse into the past.

BFI South Bank, South Block, Belvedere Rd, SE1 8XT. Open 12 – 8pm Tuesday – Sunday.

10. See the city skyline at the Sky Garden

If you like the high life then how about booking an evening at the Sky Garden at 20 Fenchurch Street for free. See spectacular panoramic views across London with elaborately landscaped gardens and a cafe onlooking the open air terrace looking out across the Capital. Be sure to book far in advance to get the best availability as spaces go fast!

20 Fenchurch St, London EC3M 8AF

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