Traveling on a Budget? Here Are 8 Free Sights in London

Looking for a way to see the city without worrying about the cost? At the first glance, London appears to be a costly place to travel to, but this is not always the case.

There are several free sights to discover in London, ranging from stunning art galleries to gorgeous parks and amazing museum collections and gardens. All that can fit within your student budget.

It’s important to find some spare time to unwind from your busy student life. And, Essaypro can ease the pressure of assignments by offering excellent essay writing services. This frees you up to take in the sights and sounds of a new destination without worrying about academic performance. 

London is a superb tourist spot, full of history, beauty, and lively culture. Even though housing can be costly, there are numerous sights to experience on a budget. 

The following are eight free sights:

- Cultural Barbican conservatory
- Platform 9 ¾
- The Historic British Museum
 -Sky Garden
- St James's Park
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Fulham Palace
- Natural History Museum

Barbican Conservatory

How about a lovely conservatory tucked away on the third story of a building, brimming with tropical plants, flowers, and cacti?

The Barbican, located in Smithfield amid remarkable Brutalist structures, is London's most prosperous cultural facility. And the best part is that the admissions are free! The only challenge is snatching a ticket.

Check the opening schedule and get yourself down there pronto if you intend to tour the site.

Platform 9¾

Platform 9¾ is inside the King's Cross Station building. It's a little hidden, making it difficult to find if you are a first-time student visitor. Although, even if you are travelling alone, the staff in the vicinity will assist you.

If you are a Harry Potter fan, a visit to Platform 9¾ is a must and one of London's top free activities. Outside, a luggage cart hangs against a brick wall, making for a great photo opportunity. A small Platform 9¾ shop is located nearby, where you may get some unique goods. Here, the vibe is quite laid-back and fun, and you can even get professional photos taken.

If you want to avoid the long lines, come early in the morning before 9 a.m. and avoid school holidays. VIP permits are available for the Harry Potter shop, but they will cost you roughly £20.

The Historic British Museum

Visiting the British Museum is one of the most incredible things to do in London. It is the finest gallery in the world, and entrance is free. However, with over 8 million artifacts dating back over 2 million years preserved inside, visits for first-time viewers can get very daunting.

Marvel at ancient artifacts like the Rosetta Stone. It features writings in three ancient languages - Greek, Hieroglyphics, and Demotic - dating back to 196 BC. Other notable artifacts like the Sutton Hoo Mask and other archaeological treasures of 1939 Britain can be seen on the top floor, in Room 41. For a more structured visit, you can take one of the guided tours offered within the museum.

Sky Garden

The Sky Garden, located between the 34th and 37th floors of the Walkie-Talkie Building, is one of the best free things to do in London. Couples go there to obtain a view of the gorgeous city from the peak, and it's a fantastic site for romantic getaways.

Although the entrance is free, you should reserve tickets in advance to ensure that you get the most out of your visit. If you decide to walk in, the lines can get long, and the best time to do so is after 6 p.m. on weekdays and 9 p.m. on weekends.

If the weather conditions are just right, you will be able to see great detail right from Canary Wharf, the London Eye, the Shard, and beyond from the terrace. The complex has a variety of restaurants to suit all budgets, even a student budget.

St James's Park

If you are going to St James’s Park, make sure to go across the Blue Bridge, which offers spectacular views of the lake and Buckingham Palace. Once you've finished, you should go to the Horse Guards Parade Ground.

You will be delighted by the park's big territory of open green space and numerous flowerbeds. The features make it a delightful destination for nature lovers.

If you are in the mood for a long walk, head down the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk route, which will take you from the park onto others such as Hyde Park, Green Park, etc. 

You can marvel at the daily bird feedings at the park in the afternoon hours. Also, if you require any assistance, speak with one of the park employees stationed near the children's playground.

Victoria and Albert Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum is famous for its beautiful treasures. You can take time off-campus and come here. If this is your first visit to the museum, find the entrance through Cromwell Road.

When you first walk into the museum, you will encounter a Dale Chihuly blown-glass chandelier. The Paul and Jill Ruddock Galleries, for example, are light and open spaces inside the museum with medieval statues.

The Cast Courts are located on the museum's first floor. Suppose you are hungry and need to reenergize yourself with some delicacies, head over to the cafe. The lighting and layout are excellent, and the museum's Jewellery Room houses several well-known contemporary and valuable pieces.

You will not be charged to access the museum, and it is one of the best free things to do in London. It also accepts donations from visitors.

Fulham Palace

Fulham Palace has been there since 704, so it has seen its fair share of intrigue and drama.  The palace was the hidey-hole where Henry VII sent Catherine of Aragon. Take a look around to discover that both the grounds and the house are charming during the summer months.

Natural History Museum

There is a reason why the Natural History Museum attracts over five million visitors each year. It is one of the best free things to do in London because you never know what historical treasure you will find when you walk in. The museum comprises the Green Zone, Blue Zone, Orange Zone, and Red Zone. 

The iconic Dippy the Diplodocus skeleton can be found hanging from the ceiling in Central Hall.  Many amphibians, dinosaurs, mammals, and other animals are in the Blue Zone. It is worth noting that the Wildlife Garden in the Orange Zone is only open from April to October.

The Wold Cottage Meteorite is the museum's oldest relic, and it is a sight you will not want to miss. And if you long to experience what it's like to be in a quake, visit the Earthquake Simulator Suite.

Many notable sights are in London, and if you visit the city, you will be pleased to learn that there are still more free things to do. You can save on your scholarship by taking advantage of these free sites and activities! Remember, the ultimate goal is to use your scholarship for the intended purpose—to study. Nonetheless, you can still have a great time exploring museums, and parks, among other things on a budget.