Travel
Things to do for free in London during the Summer Holidays
Ah, summertime in London! The days are longer, the sun is shining and there’s so much to do. But who says you have to break the bank? Here are some of the best free attractions and activities that will make your summer holiday in London unforgettable.
Explore Hyde Park
Start with a stroll through Hyde Park – it’s one of the largest parks in central London and offers plenty of space for picnics, cycling or simply enjoying nature. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a dip at Serpentine Lido – an open-air swimming pool located right next door. The lido is open from 10 am to 6 pm on weekends from mid-May and every day between June and mid-September. You can also explore Kensington Gardens – another beautiful area within Hyde Park that’s full of lush greenery and historical monuments, including Kensington Palace and The Albert Memorial.
Go to free art galleries and museums in London
If you’d rather stay indoors during this hot weather, head over to Tate Modern on Bankside where they offer free admission every day from 10 am until 6 pm. It’s home to some amazing modern art pieces by renowned artists such as Picasso, Monet and Matisse. If you’re looking for something more interactive, a visit to the Science Museum near South Kensington station is a must. You’ll find plenty of hands-on exhibits about science history for the whole family to enjoy.
Visit Borough Market
When hunger strikes after all that sightseeing, take a trip to Borough Market, one of London’s oldest and most famous food markets. Located in Southwark just south of the River Thames, it has been operating since the 13th century. The market offers a huge variety of fresh produce from local farmers and artisan producers, as well as a range of international foods from around the world. There are also stalls selling cheese, charcuterie, seafood, spices and other delicacies.
The atmosphere at Borough Market is vibrant and bustling; it’s a great place to wander around sampling different foods or simply soak up the unique atmosphere. It’s also an ideal spot for lunch – there are plenty of eateries serving delicious dishes made with ingredients bought from the market itself.
Enjoy the views from Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill is a popular park in London located on the northern side of Regent’s Park. It is known for its beautiful views of the city skyline, including iconic landmarks such as The Shard and St Paul’s Cathedral. Primrose Hill also offers plenty of green space to relax in, with many benches and grassy areas to sit and enjoy the view.
There are several popular cafes nearby where you can grab a bite to eat or a cup of coffee while admiring the view from atop this hilltop park. Regular events are also held at Primrose Hill throughout the year, such as outdoor film screenings, live music performances and much more.
Tour St Paul’s Cathedral
St Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in London. Located on Ludgate Hill, it has been a symbol of the city since its construction in 1675 and is considered to be one of Sir Christopher Wren’s finest works. It stands as an important reminder of Britain’s past and offers visitors a chance to explore our rich history.
The cathedral is renowned for its impressive architecture, which features intricate stone carvings, detailed stained glass windows, and soaring domes that reach up into the sky. Inside you can find memorials dedicated to famous figures such as Admiral Lord Nelson and The Duke Of Wellington, as well as sculptures by some of Britain’s greatest artists including Grinling Gibbons and William Kent.
Take time to visit St. Paul’s Whispering Gallery – a unique acoustic feature located at the base of the dome where whispers can be heard from across the room! You can also climb up 528 steps to get stunning views over London from the Golden Gallery, or even higher up still if you choose to ascend all 365 steps right up into St. Paul’s Dome itself!
See Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard Ceremony
Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the British monarch and one of London’s most iconic landmarks. The Changing of the Guard is a centuries-old ceremony that takes place at 11:30 a.m. every day from April to July, and on alternate days for the rest of the year (weather permitting). During this event, guards in their traditional red tunics and bearskin hats march through Buckingham Palace’s forecourt accompanied by a band playing military music.
The Changing of the Guard is an incredibly popular tourist attraction as it offers visitors a unique glimpse into Britain’s rich history and culture. It’s also a great opportunity to take some amazing photos!
Walk along the Southbank and take in street performers
The Southbank in London is a vibrant and bustling area along the River Thames, located on the south side of the river. It is home to some of London’s most iconic attractions such as The London Eye, Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.
The Southbank also has an abundance of street performers who perform all kinds of acts including music, theatre, dance and acrobatics. Street performers have been an important part of this area for many years, with their popularity increasing over time.
Visiting the Southbank is a great way to experience a unique mix of culture and entertainment that can’t be found anywhere else in London. There are plenty of activities available for people to enjoy, from exploring markets filled with artisans selling handmade items to watching live performances by talented artists from around the world.
So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to enjoy all that sunny London has to offer without breaking the bank this summer holiday!