Ready for a trip you’ll never forget? Whether you’re travelling through London for work and looking to make the most of your time, or heading to England’s capital for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, there’s so much to do, you’re bound to find the things for you.
But if you’re not looking to splash the cash during your trip, or you’d rather save it for special things, then don’t worry. While London is a hub of cultural spots and incredible dining options, there’s also a wealth of free activities you’ll love.
At The Cumberland, we’ve been London experts for decades, helping the guests who come through our doors make their trip to London as special as it can be. Our hotel is located in the heart of the city, just a few minutes’ walk from Speakers’ Corner in Hyde Park. So, when you stay with us you’ll have the city within arm’s reach.
If you’re looking for the top five best free activities in London, read on.
Browse a free London market
This may sound a little like we’re cheating – but you don’t necessarily have to spend money to explore a London market! In fact, they’re all free to enter and you’re sure to have a grand afternoon browsing the stalls and exploring the sprawling rows of sellers even if you don’t get yourself a sweet treat.
And if you do indulge, you won’t regret it! London markets are infamous for their kooky, unique fashion pieces, and indulgent desserts you’ll dream about even long after you return home. Fancy the TikTok famous chocolates and strawberries? Or looking for a gift to commemorate your London holiday? You’re sure to find whatever you’re looking for in the London markets.
Each market is unique, offering a totally different vibe depending on what you’re looking for.
If you’re ready for the full London experience you can’t miss out on Camden market. With more than 1,000 places to shop, eat, and drink, the market offers endless opportunities to explore.
Fancy making a day of it? Head to Hawley Wharf market for more boutique offerings. Grab some snaps inside Spitalfields market, with their unique lights and stalls.
Explore a free museum in London
Many tourists hail London as one of the cultural destinations of the world, jam-packed with interesting things to discover and new pockets of history to unwrap around every corner. It’s no wonder it’s a must-visit destination for history buffs and those looking to expand their cultural knowledge.
Back in 2001, the British Government made a selected number of museums across the country free to enter, helping to boost visitor numbers and remove the restrictions to accessing culture and education. Make the most of it and explore a free museum during your trip to London.
Wander through the iconic Victoria & Albert Museum, or find something a little more special with hidden gems like the Anaesthesia Heritage Centre.
Looking for free museums near the Cumberland Hotel for your next trip to the capital? You’ll be within walking distance of the Grant Museum of Zoology and The British Museum.
Take a stroll through the parks near The Cumberland Hotel
One of the best ways to spend the day – without breaking the bank – is to take a wander through nature and enjoy the great outdoors. Luckily, while London is famous for its busy streets and historic buildings, it has its fair share of stunning parkland, especially near The Cumberland Hotel.
The area offers some incredible walks, allowing you to enjoy the summer sun, see some great wildlife, or even take a jog if you fancy!
The Cumberland Hotel is nestled just on the corner of Hyde Park, only steps away from Speakers Corner where you’ll hear public speeches and debates – a tradition since the 1800s. Continue through the park and you’ll find the Hudson Memorial bird sanctuary, endless sculptures and statues, the Old Police House, and even the Winter Wonderland when the festive season comes around.
But Hyde Park isn’t the only London park near The Cumberland Hotel. Catch a quick tube or take a stroll and you’ll find Queen Mary’s Rose Gardens to the North (just below The Regent’s Park), and St James’s Park to the south of Soho. Enjoy the natural beauty of the city and take a wander.
Take in some art for free
One of the best things about London is its bustling wealth of incredible artists and creatives. Talented people from across the globe flock to the city for its inspiration and electric atmosphere, hoping to create their best work here. At The Cumberland Hotel London, we’ve seen dozens of incredible musicians and performers walk through our doors and we’ve played a role in the artistic history of the city.
That’s why we’re so excited about the art available for guests to the city to see for free!
God’s Own Junkyard
This neon Narnia is entirely free to visit and has to be on every art lover’s bucket list. Completely unique, and entirely Instagram-worthy, God’s own Junkyard features an extensive collection of neon signs, a cafe, and a gift shop for you to take a little piece of the magic home with you. The collection even features iconic signs that have appeared in Hollywood films like Eyes Wide Shut, Batman, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Leake Street
One of London’s legal graffiti spots, Leake Street is the perfect place to look for urban art. The tunnel underneath the former Eurostar terminal in London’s Waterloo Station. Head to the infamous art spot from The Cumberland Hotel by grabbing the Jubilee line or the 148 bus.
National Gallery
For an artist experience that’s a little more traditional, explore the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square. From Leonardo da Vinci to Vincent van Gogh, see the classics that have inspired painters for hundreds of years.
Catch a free performance in London near The Cumberland Hotel
For a really memorable visit to London, why not spend a leisurely evening watching a performance – for free? At The Cumberland Hotel, we’re big fans of live music, art, and performance with our very own bar and cafe, SOUND, offering performances throughout the week. But if you’re looking to hit the streets and catch some unique local talent, we have some suggestions for you:
- Southbank Centre – Twice a month this cultural hub puts on free gigs, sharing the sounds of the future.
- Effra Social – This Brixton pub puts on gigs throughout the week, including free events like their Saturday Spins.
- Angel Comedy Club – With two venues in London, this comedy club offers a wide variety of talent. Catch them on their RAW nights for free shows.
Whatever you’re planning to do during your trip to London, you don’t need to break the bank to do it.
Enjoy free activities throughout the city and rest easy with a stay at the Cumberland Hotel. Looking to plan your next adventure?
