London: Five free things to do
Yes, we hate adding on the extra pounds too. And, in London, it’s easy to do. Thankfully, there are a slew of free things to take advantage of in Her Majesty’s city—and you pretty much only need a good pair of walking shoes to enjoy them. Righty-ho!
Water works
We think the best fountains in London (and there are plenty to choose from!) are the two majestic bronze fountains that flow over Trafalgar Square. Start all free and open to the public—and they provide a fascinating look into church life in England.
After the service, visit nearby St. Margaret’s Church, free and open to the public daily. If you choose to tour the Abbey, only available on weekdays or Saturday, it will cost you £10.
Parliamentary, my dear!
If you want to sit in on a session at the British Parliament, you’ll need to queue up early as it’s one of the most popular activities in town. However, if you are a UK citizen and apply in advance through your local MP (Member of Parliament), you can skip the line altogether and receive a guaranteed place. The best time of day to go is in the morning. If you get in, you may see the Prime Minister on Wednesday mornings, when he appears before the House of Commons for his weekly “Prime Minister’s Questions” session. Parliament is open Monday through Friday. Check the Parliament’s Web site for hours.
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I agree with Lois that the Southbank is a great place to visit, it’s so vibrant and fun to see all the performers as well as the awesome views across the river of Parliment and Big Ben. The southbank also has a food market (slow food market) similar to that of borough market but a bit smaller.
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I’m Canadian but a very long time London resident. One of my favorite free things to do in London (and to take visitors) is for a stroll along the Southbank, starting at the London Eye and walking to Tower Bridge (and beyond if you have the time and energy). Although there’s things you can spend money on, there’s lots that’s free – great views of Westminster and St. Pauls, often free lunch time concerts at Festival Hall, free entry to Tate Modern, a stroll through Borough Market (Fridays, Saturdays), Southwark Cathedral, plus it’s a great place for people watching.
And if you want to stay for free in London, check out the large choice of home exchange offers in the city at Home Base Holidays and see my blog for more information about swapping homes.
Cheers
Wow, I never new about the parliment sittings! Darn, now I’ll have to go to london again. If only you can figure out free US-London AIRFARE!!!
But seriously,
Love the free stuff. thanks!
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