No matter the time of year, you’d be hard-pressed to find any other city with the sheer amount of activities than in London, all free of charge. Whether you’re inside or outdoors, the captivating capital is host to world-class cultural institutions, buzzing markets and charming parklands inviting you to explore to get to know the city a little better.
Chinese New Year
In the heart of Central London, the streets around Chinatown and Trafalgar Square teem with activities and family-friendly entertainment. From vibrant, colourful floats to the largest display of dancing Chinese dragons and lions in Europe as well as food treats and martial arts displays, soak in the atmosphere of culture celebrating the Year of the Rat.
Columbia Road Flower Market
Every Sunday, a street in East London transforms into a cacophony of colour and scents as local vendors sell the best of the season’s flowers and plants. Head there towards the end of the day where offers can see you leave with an entire bouquet for a ‘fiver’.
Wander the Halls of the National Gallery
Explore the gallery that is home to one of the world’s most formidable collections of art. If you’re pressed for time, browse the 30 must-see paintings including Van Gogh’s ‘The Sunflowers’ and da Vinci’s ‘The Virgin of the Rocks’ to appreciate the breadth of their display.
Lunchtime Concerts at St Martin’s in the Fields
At 1 pm three days a week, the church in the northeastern corner of Trafalgar Square is host to superb performances from virtuoso musicians. From piano recitals to choral revues, any music lover will find something to look forward to.
Top Secret Comedy Club
With the world’s best stand-up comedians frequenting this intimate venue to practice new sets has a host of comedians whose hilarious jokes are sure to leave you in stitches.
Admire the View from Sky Garden
From the 43rd floor of the Walkie Talkie, you’re able to experience the city within a refuge from the busy streets below. Home to a luscious urban jungle and open-air terrace, the atrium space allows you to admire London’s most iconic sites.
Royal Opera House’s BP Big Screens
With screens set up in Trafalgar Square, Wembley Park and White City, indulge in an outdoor cinema experience showcasing captivating live performances from the Royal Ballet and the Royal Opera. The program this year features Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Carmen as well as Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro.
Find Serenity in Kyoto Garden
Nestled in West London’s Holland Park is a tranquil space for those wanting to escape London without leaving the city. Imbue your life with the zen of cherry blossoms and wandering peacocks before heading back out to explore.
Watch Wimbledon in the Park
Throughout July, the world’s best tennis players converge on the city competing for the title of the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships. While getting a ticket is a sport in itself, HD screens set up across London’s parks mean experiencing the tournament, albeit from the comfort of a picnic blanket.
Escape to Paradise at Barbican Conservatory
Housing over two thousand plant species, the Barbican Conservatory is a glass-bound rainforest beloved by many. From palm trees to banana plants and everything in between, it’s the perfect tropical refuge for when the weather outside begs you to stay in.
Celebrate Pride
Taking place on Saturday 27 June, London’s Pride Festival sets the West End alight with a vibrant display celebrating love, sexuality and gender as well as support for LGBT+ communities globally.
Feel the Bass at Notting Hill Carnival
The streets of West London fill with revellers celebrating the rich culture that is Caribbean music, flavours and colours. Europe’s biggest street party means elaborate floats, throbbing sound systems and a raucous crowd of performers and partygoers alike.
Dive into History at the British Museum
A colossal trove of treasures exhibiting the story of human history fill the hallowed halls of one London’s most beloved institutions. From Ancient Egypt to the Americas and everything in between, get lost in its hallways that transport you to a bygone era.
Walk Along the Thames at Southbank
Starting at Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, cross the river and continue along Southbank to begin a walking tour at your own pace and leisure. Pass by the Eye, the Southbank Centre, the Tate Modern and the Shard before ending at the iconic Tower Bridge.
Discover Street Art in London
From Camden to Covent Garden, Shoreditch to Soho, the city’s walls are lined with one of the world’s most eclectic street art scenes. Wander the streets in search of an original Banksy or gaze upon murals several storeys high.
Marvel at the Horniman’s Cabinet of Curiosities
One for kids of all ages, the Horniman Museum in Forest Hill excites its visitors with an extensive collection of natural history and anthropology. From taxidermy walruses to workshops and a new aquarium, you’ll be sure to leave with a new fact or two (or more).
Get Lost in Hampstead Heath
Whether you bask in the sun’s rays with a view of the entire city from Parliament Hill or wander its ancient parkland and sprawling trails, Hampstead Heath is that special place inviting you to get closer to nature.
Feel the Festivity of Oxford Street’s Christmas Lights
Come November, London’s main thoroughfares come to life with the magic of Christmas. With miles of fairy lights, snowflakes and glorious golden angels lining the streets, Central London is transformed into a spectacle of cheer.
Celebrate Bonfire Night
On the 5th of November, a glittering array of firework displays light up the London sky. At many sites around the city, this quintessential autumn event brings explosions of colour and sparkle to the oft-dreary cooler nights.
Changing of the Guard
While a London cliche, the changing of the guard is a must-see for fans of the Royal Family; a striking display and custom steeped in history and tradition.
With 20 locations in London Sixt is here to help you get around and see the sights. With a variety of vehicle classes, top rates and incredible customer service let us get you behind the wheel and to all the best London activities. If you plan on going further through the UK then we’re available at many of the biggest cities.
