BECAUSE THE BEST THINGS IN LIFE ARE FREE!
Easter is just around the corner so why not plan a jam packed weekend in the city without splashing the cash? For those of you who want to explore the city on a budget, Wisteria London has compiled a guide to the best free things to do in the city over the bank holiday weekend. Yes you heard us right FREE!
London can be super expensive. I for one have been known to spend £20 on a burger before, which was anything more than average! I know (insert gasping emoji), but it’s true; some places in London can set you back a pretty penny. However, look in the right places and you will find that there’s also a lot of fun to be had for absolutely nada!
So let’s get started, below is our guide on doing ‘London on a Budget.’
MUSEUMS
We are so lucky to have so many museums on our doorstep, but did you know that admission into some of them is absolutely free? I will note that some of them do ask for a small donation that will help to maintain the museum but this donation is entirely voluntary.
First up is the V&A, the world’s largest museum of art and design that houses 2.3 million objects that span over 5,000 years of human creativity (WOW!) Spend your morning exploring the endless corridors of amazing exhibitions that the V&A have to offer, and whilst there be sure to check out the amazing tearooms, you will want to get that photo for the gram!
This is probably my favourite museum to visit, and is a great one if you have kids. From dinosaurs to mammals explore the amazing diversity of life on Earth! Take a journey through their spectacular Earth sculpture, experience their famous earthquake simulator, stand under the 25.2 metre blue whale skeleton and do it all for free! From the moment you step inside, your inner child will be released and you will never want to leave, a fab way to spend your afternoon in the city!
VIEWS OF LONDON
Want free uninterrupted views of the city? Then look no further than the Sky Garden, located within the Walkie Talkie building on Fenchurch Street, right in the heart of the city. Whiz your way up to the 35th floor where you will be transported to a unique public space that spans three storeys and offers 360 degree views across the city of London. Spend time wandering around the landscaped garden, observation decks and open air terrace, and be sure to get that insta-worthy photo of one of London’s many famous landmarks. This is one definitely not to be missed and although it is free and walk ins are accepted I would highly recommend that you book tickets in advance. Tickets can be purchased on the Sky Garden website and are usually released on a Monday for the following week, and you will be able to choose the day and time of your visit. Why not book two visits and see London in all its glory both day and night!
Discover London on Foot
Be truly British and discover some of London’s most iconic landmarks on foot. Walking is a great way to discover the real London, as well as getting in some much needed exercise! Head to Buckingham Palace to see the changing of the guards, or go see the beautiful sights of Covent Garden. Head down to the embankment to get views of the London Eye or walk towards London Bridge to get some of the best views of the city! Don’t forget to keep looking up as you might miss something along the way!
MARKETS
Why not wander around some of London’s favourite and oldest markets. Start off with Borough Market the foodies favourite and probably one of the busiest markets you will come across in London. Here you will find lots of gourmet goodies along with fresh loaves, rare breed meats, fruit and veg and lots of yummy cakes. Be sure to take advantage of the numerous free samples on offer too!
Next stop Portobello Road Market an antique collectors dream! Several markets rolled into one (Saturdays being the day when all are in full swing) visitors flock from all over the world to discover one of London’s best loved treasures. Unfortunately the market is closed on Bank holidays but does open on Good Friday.
Something for the whole family, Spitalfields market is set in the heart of one of the most popular, diverse and historic neighbourhoods in London. With Shoreditch and Hoxton only a short walk away you can discover the amazing works of Banksy and Roa which change on a weekly basis.
Whilst these are our favourite places to visit for free in London there are many other exhibitions and galleries which do not charge admission. Let us know in the comments below if you have visited any of our top picks and what you thought of them, or let us know any of your recommendations. We too love discovering new places!
Until next time,
Rebecca x
**All images used in this post are our own**