Top 10 Things To Do In London On A Budget (2024)

Enjoy London on a budget: there’s no reason not to have a great time if you’re strapped for cash with these free, or cheap, things to do in the UK capital.

You have probably heard that London is an expensive city, and that is true, in part.

However, while you can find yourself spending a lot, you can also find many things to do for free or, at least, cheaply.

The city is full of museums and galleries with free entry for history and art lovers.

If you prefer to be outside, you can find parks and gardens that don’t cost a penny to visit.

Explore London on a budget with our tips for seeing the city without going broke.

London On A Budget:

1. Natural History Museum

You will find that many of London’s museums are free to enter, although it is polite to make a donation. The Natural History Museum is filled with exhibits exploring the natural world. They include art and fascinating specimens. You might recognise it from the Paddington movie.

2. Science Museum

Science fanatics should head to the free Science Museum, just a stone’s throw from the NHM.

This exciting place is wonderful for both adults and children. There are interactive displays the kids will love to get stuck into.

3. British Museum

If it’s mummies you’re after, the British Museum is where you need to go.

As well as Ancient Egyptian displays, this free museum has art and cultural artefacts from all over the world. It also has a great courtyard for sitting out in the sun.

4. Hyde Park

London’s parks always provide something fun to do when you’re short on cash. In summer at Hyde Park, you can take a stroll, listen to great orators at Speaker’s Corner, or even hire a boat.

In the winter, Winter Wonderland is sure to keep the whole family entertained.

5. Changing of the Guard

You can’t leave London without experiencing this spectacular traditional spectacle.

Get your timing right, and you can watch the ceremony at Buckingham Palace almost every day. Check online before you go to make sure you catch it.

6. British Library

If you love literature, film or even music, you’ll find something you enjoy at the British Library.

Their free exhibitions celebrate everything from Shakespeare to punk music.

See their Treasures of the British Library to take a look at Magna Carta, Gutenberg’s Bible, and even original Beatles lyrics.

7. National Gallery

Art lovers should start with the National Gallery to see one of the world’s best collections.

From Van Gogh and JMW Turner to Caravaggio and Monet, you’ll find a host of classic paintings to keep you entertained for hours.

8. Tate Modern

If modern art is more your thing, the Tate Modern, on London’s beautiful South Bank, is for you.

It has paintings, sculpture, and interactive and digital displays. Take one of their free daily tours to get a real feel for the gallery.

9. Southbank Centre

There are lots of places to seek out free music around the city too. The Southbank Centre is one of them, where you can find performances in two of their halls.

10. Somerset House

Somerset House is excellent for art and architecture. It has free admission and even guided tours of some of the spaces usually closed to the public. It’s also round the corner from of our favoriteLondon pubs, the Cittie Of Yorke.

You don’t even need to go inside. The neo-classical building and its beautiful courtyard are things to behold.

There’s no need to spend all your money to have fun in London. Plan your trip right and you’ll only have to pay for food and accommodation.