Tower Bridge in London. Photo: Shutterstock It is one of the most expensive cities in Europe, and a vacation that includes flights and accommodation will cost you quite a bit. But did you ever think that you could spend time in London for free? It turns out that the capital of the United Kingdom has quite a few options for free attractions, from a spectacular view of the city, to free museums, a hidden corner that you might not have known about, and more. Here are some of the great options that London has to offer you, all for free.
Observation decks in the world's most visited cities are an expensive business that has developed greatly in recent years, whether in New York, London, Dubai, or Paris. The famous Shard Observation Deck in London costs tens of pounds per visitor. But did you know that there is a free public observation deck at the top of another tower in the city?
Namely, the Garden at 120, a public rooftop on London's "Wall Street", the business and financial district. The top of the building features 85 trees that create a calm rooftop garden atmosphere, alongside a water canal. The observation deck is not as high as that at the Shard, but you can definitely see at a 360-degree angle (and with a somewhat stressful tilt of the perimeter glass) the Thames, the Shard, Tower Bridge, and other sites that you will recognize from the rooftop on the 16th floor.
Photo: ShutterstockIf you wish, you can walk down one floor to the restaurant (for a fee) on the 15th floor to eat or have a drink. No need to make a reservation in advance or register; just show up (the entrance involves a security check, similar to an airport).
120 Fenchurch Street
Some of you may not have heard of it, some of you may not have known. The British Museum, the National Gallery, the Maritime Museum, and even the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Tate, are all open to the public for free. However, you probably won't be able to see them all in one visit.
Photo: Shutterstock
The one we chose, however, is Tate Modern, considered one of the largest and most important in the field of modern art in the world. It is housed in a formidable former power station building on the banks of the Thames. Among other things, you will find works by Andy Warhol, E. Wai Wai, and a host of other artists who challenge the question of "what is art?" It's worth dedicating a few hours to a tour that will leave a smile on your face.
Bankside London
If you are a die-hard London fan, don't miss a free visit to NLA - The London Center that tells the urban story of the British capital in an interesting and educational way.
Photo: Amit Cotler
Here you will get to know the structure of the city, its residential plans, and, above all, you will observe two breathtaking giant models of London, containing the smallest and most accurate details possible. A real three-dimensional map that displays all the iconic buildings of the city, and on which you can "mark with your eyes" your way from place to place. Try to position yourself on the map without following the guesswork embedded in it.
The London Center - NLA, 3 Aldermanbury st
Did you know that in the heart of London, you will find an archaeological site that will transport you 1,800 years into the past? One such site is the London Mithraeum, which will take you to a dark, dramatic, and musical reconstruction of the temple of Mithras, the god who was worshipped (yes, in London!) almost 2,000 years ago. It is recommended that you read a little about the background at the entrance, as it appears on the walls, before entering the short performance. And if you are less connected, no problem, it is free and only takes 15 minutes.
London Mithraeum - 12 Wallbrook st.
And not just romantic, but Instagrammable too. St Dunstan in the East Church Garden is a surprising church that looks like it was taken from a Disney movie, with surprising design elements, and beautiful green vegetation climbing over it.
Photo: Amit Cotler
The church, which was severely damaged in the Great Fire of London in 1666, was also damaged in World War II, and instead of rebuilding it, the city decided to leave the ruins as they are and plant a green garden, climbing plants, and a waterfall among them that adds the effect of nature in the heart of the city.
Many couples take perfect Instagram photos and even wedding photos here, workers in the nearby towers love to eat their lunches here, while tourists admire the perfect Gothic beauty. It is recommended to check opening hours (variable) before arriving at the place.
St Dunstan's Hill, London
There are several Christmas markets in London, but the one we visited was in Leicester Square, where you'll find gift stalls, a variety of culinary pop-ups, free performances, and an ice-skating rink (for a fee). It's worth it and recommended to feel the holiday atmosphere, even if it's a holiday of a different religion.
Photo: Amit Cotler
Photo: Amit Cotler