During my student days, some of my absolute favourite memories didn’t cost a single pound—just a few friends, a cheap snack, and a spot on a lush hill overlooking the city. (Image by Timur Valiev)
London may be an expensive city, but many of its best experiences remain fiercely protected and free. From dedicated art spaces and world-class museums to panoramic skyline views and lush green parks, London leaves its best public spaces without a paywall. The city is also well connected by public transport, making it easy to explore its heritage, charm, and modern character on a budget.
When I lived in London as a student, I learned to venture beyond the central business district in search of novel, affordable experiences to enjoy with friends.
So many of London’s most memorable experiences remain free of charge, and in this guide, I’ll share some of the lesser-known places where you can slow down, explore intentionally, and enjoy the city without spending much at all.
Spend an afternoon picnicking in one of London’s many parks
Lots of my favourite memories involve settling into a vibrant park for hours with friends, equipped with a good book, board game, or picnic spread. Especially in the months of May to August, trees burst back into life and flowers bloom, making parks in London the perfect place to visit after months of dreary winter.
Beyond the famous Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, I enjoy being in one of the less crowded but equally gorgeous pockets of green.
Some of my favourite ways to spend a leisurely afternoon involve strolling around Holland Park. It’s just a short walk away from Holland Park tube station. After passing a row of stucco-fronted white Victorian mansions, you’ll be greeted by a small entryway which opens up to tall leafy trees, curated gardens, and expansive green spaces where peacocks roam freely, much to the excitement of visitors. Tucked deep inside the unique park is a Japanese Garden, which is the perfect place to enjoy curated garden landscapes while reading a book or hanging out with friends.
Holland Park
Take the scenic sunset walk across Waterloo Bridge
There are many beautiful and historic bridges connecting both banks of the River Thames, but my favourite bridge has got to be Waterloo Bridge, as from here, you get to view all the famous landmarks of London from both directions while standing on the bridge.
Waterloo Bridge is close to many London universities. I spent many days walking back home on this route after a long day of lectures. Walking on the bridge at sunset, you’ll see a panoramic view of London, from the historic Houses of Parliament and Big Ben to St Paul’s Cathedral and the London Eye.
Definitely take a leisurely walk from end to end of the bridge or enjoy a scenic ride using a LimeBike or a Santander Cycle available widely throughout the city centre.
After walking to the northern end of Waterloo Bridge, I like to stop by Somerset House, a neoclassical palace that doubles as an art gallery. Stop by WatchHouse Somerset House cafe for a good cup of coffee or sweet treat, and watch the sunset glint off the stately building.
Somerset House
WatchHouse Somerset House
See London’s skyline from above for free
You don’t necessarily have to book a fine-dining experience at one of London’s sky restaurants to take in its breathtaking skyline views. For instance, The Garden at 120 is a lesser-known viewing point which offers great views of the city for free.
Simply step out of the lift onto the 15th floor of Fen Court, and London’s skyline opens up around you. The Garden at 120 stretches across the open-air rooftop with wisteria, roses, and hydrangeas framing views to the River Thames, Tower Bridge and the City’s towers. No booking is required to visit.
Another popular viewing point is Horizon 22, proudly advertised as London’s highest free viewing platform. Located on Level 58, this glassed-in platform offers 300-degree views of London while showcasing its most iconic landmarks.
The Garden at 120
Horizon 22
Browse one of London’s lesser-known museums
Tourists in London often queue up to see the British Museum or the contemporary Tate Modern. For a more mindful museum experience without huge crowds shouldering past, I recommend visiting some of the smaller free museums such as Sir John Soane’s Museum and the Wellcome Collection.
An eccentric 19th-century collector’s former home, Sir John Soane’s Museum is packed with the collector’s own collection of antiquities, furniture, architectural models, paintings, and curiosities. Maximalist and ornate in style, the museum is quirky in that it offers no explanatory labels or rigid walkways, as established museums do. Instead, feel free to wander around and interact with the furniture without obstruction.
The Wellcome Collection, on the other hand, presents a completely different vibe by exploring the connections between medicine, life, and art. Their permanent exhibition, titled Being Human, is divided into thought-provoking sections: Genetics, Minds & Bodies, Infection, and Environmental Breakdown. Apart from thought-provoking exhibits displayed in its galleries, the Wellcome Collection houses a beautifully decorated Reading Room with bright pops of colour. There are sofas and beanbags where you can relax or discuss books and objects with friends.
Sir John Soane’s Museum
The Wellcome Collection
London’s most rewarding experiences aren’t always the ones with the longest queues or highest ticket prices. Sometimes, the best way to experience London is simply to give yourself the time and space to explore it on your own terms.
