Explore London without breaking the bank!

With London being one of the most beautiful and interesting cities in the world, it is an obvious choice for a destination with the children. But with so much to see and do, your trip can easily be a budget-breaker. There are however, quite a few well known, famous attractions that are free in London and definitely worth a visit. There’s the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, watching the Changing of the Guard at Horse Guards Parade and so many more adventurous activities. Look below to see how to have a fantastic time in London on a budget!

Explore the history of London

Learn about the history of London by visiting the very place where it happened. London is full of free-of-charge museums which offer an incite into how the city became what it is today. Visit the Victoria & Albert Museum to learn about London’s culture and how it influences art and literature. Or learn about the evolution of London at the Museum of London through its interactive displays.

The Imperial War Museum is full of enlightening displays, ranging from World War One to present day. The Museum of London Docklands is another great spot to take advantage of their interactive displays and explore London’s 19-century naval supremacy.

Harry Potter landmarks for free

If your family are Harry Potter mad, why not take them on a Harry Potter inspired site-seeing tour of London? Did you know you can visit Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station? There is even a great photo opportunity, so be sure to bring your camera. Other iconic locations include Leadenhall Market, which served as the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron Pub.

Or visit the entrance to the Ministry of Magic by walking along the streets of Scotland Place. You can head over to the Millennium Bridge to finish up the Harry Potter sight-seeing tour!

Don’t follow the crowds

There are many amazing tourist sites to see in London, such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and the London Eye. But why not visit attractions which sometimes fly under the radar? The Sky Garden is a unique attraction which can be found in the Fenchurch building. Its sub-tropical garden is filled with Mediterranean and South African species. Spread over three terraces, there is more than enough to keep the family entertained.

God’s own Junkyard is a hidden gem which displays a range of fun neon lights. The gallery is a great photo spot and keeps catches the eyes of children from all ages. They also have a café if visitors become peckish. Columbia Road flower market takes place every Sunday and is a beautiful walk to take with your family. Gaze at the incredible flowers and plants up for grabs, and don’t forget to snap some photos!

Enjoy the greenery London has to offer

Despite being known as a bustling city, London has plenty of vast green parks which are completely free for the public to enjoy! Richmond Park is full of rare species of birds, flowers & beetles. Kensington Gardens is another great choice for a relaxed family picnic. Kids can play in the Diana Memorial Playground or visit the Serpentine Gallery.

Explore Crystal Palace Park and spot their dinosaur sculptures. Or try not to get lost in their maze. If the day is heating up and you fancy a cool down, visit Hyde Park and paddle in the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain or take a dip in the Serpentine.

Fabulous free art

If you have a keen artist in the family and want to offer some hands on learning of art through history then you should check out Wallace Collection or Orleans House Gallery in Twickenham, both free art museums! So if the kids lose interest after three paintings and want to go outside to play then it isn’t a complete loss of money.

Or become your own artist at the Crafts Council Gallery exhibit in Islington from 9th July till 4th September. Children, families and young people are to be inspired and get hands-on with plenty of chances to play, create and experiment with a variety of materials.

Did you know about free City Farms in London?

Take a trip to a number of city farms in London that will certainly entertain your children and are free! Spend the day surrounded by lovely fluffy animals and participate in petting experiences and chances to get close up to the animals. Visit Deen City Farm, Kentish Town City Farm, Hackney City Farm, Spitalfields City Farm, Surrey Docks City Farm and Vauxhall City Farm.