The Big Smoke. The City... Whatever you call it, anyone who thinks their travel budget won’t stretch to a good time in London just hasn't read this guide.

When it comes to free attractions London has a treasure trove just waiting to be uncovered in 2024. From iconic landmarks, to free museums and getting a free taste of culture. Join us as we uncover the very best free things to do in the heart of the bustling capital.

1. Jump across the world at Greenwich Park

Step into Greenwich Park, one of London's Royal Parks that has hosted an eclectic guest list from Tudor Monarchs to Victorian Sailors.

Nestled in the South-East of the city, this is one of the best free things to do in London with friends – Clamber up the park's highest hill and bask in the glory of a jaw-dropping, sweeping view of London's skyline. Where else can you get a front-row seat to the city without spending a single penny?

By the way - Greenwich Park isn't just an oversized lawn dotted with trees; it's also the proud home of the Royal Observatory. 

The Greenwich Prime Meridian kicks off right here, giving you free rein to leap between the Eastern and Western hemispheres of planet Earth, all on the house. This is one of the best family-friendly things to do in London. 

2. Check out the Changing of the Guard

Get ready for the ultimate game of royal musical chairs dating back to Henry VII. The King's Guard, wearing red tunics and bearskin hats, are relieved by the 'New Guard' in a ceremony full of pomp and music.

The action unfolds across several spots, but if you want front-row seats to this military marvel, Buckingham Palace is where it's at. The Old Guard assembles on the forecourt at 10:30 sharp, four days a week. If you're aiming for a primo view, you'll need to be an early bird: get there at least 2 hours in advance to beat the crowds.

It doesn't cost you a bean to join the regal revelry, complete with guards, palaces, and a dash of pomp and circumstance. You don't even need to reserve tickets, so make sure to crown your visit with the most British of experiences.

3. Find the train for Hogwarts

Attention Potterheads! If you're a true fan, you'll get a kick out of the fact that Harry Potter catches his wizarding express from none other than London's Kings Cross Station. Platform 9 ¾ is the magical spot, and guess what? The station pays homage to the wizardry with a legit monument – a sign pointing the way to the (totally fictional) platform.

Oh, and brace yourselves, there's a trolley jammed halfway into the wall, complete with an owl in a cage. Take a quick snap of yourself on your way to the Hogwarts Express.

4. Discover Treasures at the V&A

Nestled in South Kensington, the Victoria and Albert isn't just a museum; it's a seven-mile wonderland of jaw-dropping galleries. And guess what? The place is open every day – yep, even on weekends – and the best part is that admission won't cost you so much as a penny!

Prepare to be hit with the "there's something for everyone" magic because the V&A is basically the Michelangelo of museums. a whopping 6.5 million objects just waiting to blow your mind. We're talking ancient books, paintings that practically whisper history, cunningly crafted ceramics, textiles that redefine cosy, and sculptures that will make for Instagram gold.

5. Walk with Dinosaurs

Welcome to the wonderland that is Crystal Palace Park – where free, family fun is the name of the game! The real heroes of the story here are the dino crew statues -  life-sized and straight from the 1850s. And if you're feeling the vintage vibes, why not get lost – literally – in the legit Victorian maze? It's like time-travelling without the pesky time machines.

The kids aren't left out of the fun either. They can bust out the board and ride the rad waves of excitement at the skatepark. And for tiny tots who love a bit of furry action, the children's farm is where it's at – petting zoo extraordinaires.

6. Womble on Wimbledon Common

Take a walk on the wild side of Wimbledon. Far from being the turf of the heroes of the 70's hit show 'The Wombles', the Common is anything but. In fact, it's a real critter carnival, with badgers, rabbits, foxes, and bats. There's more to this green kingdom than just a chance to spot furry friends though. Wimbledon Windmill, the main landmark, doesn't just stand tall but hosts an interactive museum. Brace yourself to be blown away by fun facts on rural life and local history.

7. Go celeb spotting at Leicester Square

Step right up, London lovers, to the beating heart of entertainment – Leicester Square, where the curtain never drops on the fun!

Sure, catching one of the 52 yearly premieres might not be one of the most affordable things to do in London. But who says the red carpet magic is off-limits? Roll the dice and wander down – you might just stumble upon your film icons doing the Hollywood strut free of charge on the red carpet, giving you a selfie moment that could break the internet. #StarStruckGoals 

8. Cross Abbey Road like a Beatle

Hold on to your mod hats, because Abbey Road isn't just a street – it's a rock 'n' roll time machine right in the heart of Camden! This is the home of the legendary Abbey Road studios. And guess what? The zebra crossing the Beatles used for their album cover is so famous, English Heritage have slapped a Grade II listed label on it. This is one of the perfect free things to do in London with friends. Just grab three of them and get ready to recreate the cover for the ultimate Insta adventure.

9. Take a trip to Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square isn't just a board game hotspot – it's a quirky hub of British awesomeness. Channel your inner history buff and soak in the majesty of Nelson's Column. Don't forget to cosy up to one of the regal lions for a selfie – they're the mane event after all! 

Trafalgar Square is also the ultimate party central. Free festivals, anyone? From Chinese New Year shenanigans to Pride parades and Christmas carols – this square is the place to be for all major London bashes. Calling all Whovians! Don't miss the Police box – once crowned London's tiniest police station. Rumour has it, it's bigger on the inside.

10. Enjoy a free lunchtime concert

If you're heading down to Trafalgar Square it's hard to miss St Martin-in-the-Fields church nestled in the corner. You don't have to be religious to enjoy the music from one of the church's many free lunchtime and afternoon performances. 

Much of the music focuses on classical composers like Bach and Handel, making this one of the best free things to do in London for adults. Although they aren't free, the night time 'candelight' concerts are amongst the most cheap things to do in London while still enjoying a little culture.

Now, if you're feeling peckish after your spiritual and/or musical) journey, dive into the "Crypt Cafe" – nothing says divine dining like grabbing a bite in a crypt after all. Spooky? Maybe. Delicious? Absolutely!

11. Find your muse at the Tate Britain

The Tate holds the largest stash of British art in the whole world. There's truly something for everyone as you can enjoy old favourites like oil paintings by Turner, not-so-teenage mutant pre-Raphaelites, as well as more contemporary artwork. 

But here's the best part – entry to this treasure trove is on the house, 7 days a week! You still may need to splash out on a ticket for certain exhibitions.

12. Join in the fun at Notting Hill Carnival

This street party attracts over 3 million people per year andis  one of the most popular carnivals in London. Better yet, the hottest ticket in town won't cost you a single bob! Just imagine: over 3 million revellers per year, streets pulsating with the rhythms of the Caribbean, and a parade that makes extravagant look like an understatement. Performers are always dressed to the nines (or maybe even tens). It's a free auditory and visual feast, never to be missed.

13. Lend an Ear to Speaker's Corner

Step right up to the eccentric and iconic Speaker's Corner. This is where Hyde Park transforms into a megaphone for movements, musings, and the occasional bit of madness! Karl Marx, Vladimir Lenin, George Orwell are all legends who've stood up on their soapbox right here to dish out their thoughts. And the tradition lives on. Every Sunday since 1866, a motley crew of speakers has gathered to share their opinions.

Still, if these guys and girls want to be Ringmasters of their own political circus, why not join the spectacle? You may even catch a glimpse of the next Karl Marx.

14. Walk like an Egyptian to the British Museum

Sing 'Oh whey oh' : - nestled in the centre of London, this is the Fort Knox of museums, boasting over two million years of jaw-dropping history. 

The British Museum has it all - from Egyptian Mummies to the legendary Rosetta Stone, not to mention Roman relics. So educational, it's one of the best free things to do in London for students. But it's not just about dusty artefacts. The awe inspiring 'Great Court' hosts over 60 galleries featuring art from the likes of Egypt, Ancient Greece, and China. Admission won't cost you a single quid but remember to snag a timed ticket in advance.

15. Crash at Kabannas

If you're on a shoestring, Kabannas St Pancras offers a perfect, affordable rooms in London.

If you're with friends, our dorm rooms sleep upto  6 people, each with their own private bathroom, helping you stretch your pounds even further. If you've saved up enough from doing all these free activities, then why not treat yourself to a private double room with ensuite bathroom? Our hostel is conveniently located minutes away from hotspots like Shoreditch, Camden Market and South Kensington.

All this talk of London got you in the mood to book a budget trip to the UK capital? Don't delay, book today.