This London guide is not about museums, landmarks and sightseeing. At least not in a way normal people think of it. This is my top 13 most amusing, alternative things to do in London, which suit a wide variety of tastes. So, if you feel like approaching sightseeing in a different, even a little bit crazy way — take a look at some inspirational ideas on how to have a blast in here, for less money or even for free. Here are 13 unusual things to do in London.
UK’s capital is without a doubt among world’s top travel destinations. No wonder there are plenty of opportunities for your vacation. Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral are just few of the top tourist stops. But did you know, there are also many fun free things to do in London this weekend, tomorrow or even today? If not, then check out the list below and find out where, when and for how much.
1. Pedalo in the Park
Hire a pedalo or a rowing boat. In case you are feeling kind of lazy, take a ride on the UK’s first Solar Shuttle, powered only by the sun. Take your time to relax and daydream, while this magnificent vessel glides silently across the lake. One of the top things to do in London if you ask me — it works for everyone — from teenagers to couples and parents with kids.
Where: Hyde Park; Serpentine Lake
When: 10am-dusk
Price: from £6
2. Casually Stopping by the A&F Store
Not that I am a fan of the clothes or anything, it’s just the weirdest retail store I have ever seen. The Abercrombie & Fitch shop in London looks more like a nightclub, than a place to buy clothes at. It’s pitch dark, just neon lights here and there, music blasting out loud and strong cologne smell. And how can I describe the staff … Well, they are all quite the characters … The male shop-assistants wander shirtless around — a total eye-candy. You don’t have to actually buy something (this way you will also spare yourself the long queues). And if you insist on shopping for outfits, I advise you to carry a flashlight, just in case, because it’s really, really dark in there. This unusual tourist tip counts as one of the girly things to do in London, which is both fun and free.
Where: 7 Burlington Gardens, London W1S 3ES
When: 10am-7pm
Price: Free
3. Climbing the Largest Escalator in Europe
Angel tube station escalator is 60 metres long and has a vertical rise of the astonishing 30 metres. It holds the title of Europe’s largest escalator. Besides being an alternative way to workout, you can also meet a new friend while making your way up. Unlike most underground stations in London, this one will get you directly to the shops, so it’s definitely worth the climb. Climbing this escalator is one of the cheap fun things to do in London.
Where: Angel Underground Station, Islington
When: 5am-midnight
Price: £5.60
4. Ice Skating at Somerset House
There are many rinks across town, but this is the most scenic one. Chances are you will feel like starring in a movie, even if you have poor skating skills. Ice skating at Somerset House is one more fun thing to do in London for couples, teenagers, adults and kids.
Where: Strand, London WC2R 1LA
When: November to January
Price: from £10.50
5. Enjoy Free Gigs at Notting Hill Arts Club
This great London arts club is the host of Rota — a showcase of upcoming bands and DJ’s. It’s been running for over 8 years every Saturday evening. Make sure you’ll include it in your list of things to do in London this weekend. You can watch live performances, ranging from electronica and alt-folk to fuzzy rock’n’roll, post rock and indie-pop. If you are a band member by any chance, you can take part and showcase your talent. Who knows, you might end up being the next big thing on the London music scene. In case this tickles your fancy, check out their upcoming events and call to reserve an eight-seating booth for free.
Where: Nottingham Hill Arts Club
When: Every Saturday 8pm-2am
Price: FREE
6. Camping out at Wimbledon
This is for the nature lovers, keen on tennis, outdoor activities and stargazing. Camping out at Wimbledon is one more cheap, but unique thing you can do in London. Just make sure you grab a day ticket the night before.
Where: Southfields, Wimbledon Park
When: June-July
Price: from £25
7. Spot a Banksy
Banksy is the pseudonymous of a world-known graffiti artist, political activist and film director. Born in Bristol, he trained as a butcher, but later got involved in street art. Inspired by 3D (one of the founding members of Massive Attack), his satirical art can be spotted on walls, streets and bridges of cities throughout the world. If you like to explore urban culture — this is one of the free things to do in London.
Since the government is labeling graffiti as vandalism, street artists like Banksy can be convicted if caught on the spot, and sentenced to jail time. This is one of the reasons why he is not willing to reveal his identity and draws during the night. Banksy refuses to sell photographs or reproductions of his art pieces. However, auctioneers have been trying to sell his street art on spot, leaving the winning bidder to deal with the problem of its removal.
Spotting a Banksy is a thing to do in London today, because several of his art pieces are already peeled from the walls and displayed at a London hotel for an auction. Estimated sale prices vary from £100,000 to £500,000. Try to find the Maid Sweeping Camden’s streets or the double yellow lines on Pollard Street in Bethnal Green before someone buys it, or the government has it removed by London’s professional cleaners.
Where: Camden and Bethnal Green
When: preferably daytime
Price: FREE
8. Pretend-Drive the DLR
The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) in London is unmanned, so no one can stop you from hopping on the front seat and take it for a spin. A hidden bonus: Riding the Docklands Light Railway feels like you are on a roller coaster, so you will be having some extreme fun, while sightseeing —yet another different thing to do in London.
Where: Starts at Bank
Price: £5.60
9. Watch a Live Entertainment Show on the Street
From professional singers and musicians to jugglers and acrobats, Covent Garden always has a number of acts you can enjoy. This London spot is famous for its street entertainment, taking place outside of the Piazza. Do not let yourself be fooled, this is not the buskers and silent statues kind of show. All acts are auditioned in advance by a jury, and after that they are allowed to showcase their talents in front of the crowd. Daredevil stunt riders, magicians, actors — this various street entertainment will suit every taste. Besides, the Piazza itself is full of fancy little shops and restaurants. It is no doubt the perfect place to grab a bite and enjoy a variety of acts. Definitely one of the free fun things to do in London.
Where: Covent Garden
When: On a nice sunny day, preferably in Summer time
Price: FREE
10. Take a Tour in London’s Most Expensive Houses
Our 10th thing to do in London for free: Open House weekend is held every September, inviting people off the street to come and take a look at the inside of historic buildings and expensive homes. Get a glance at the lifestyle of the rich and famous by trying out our 10th thing to do in London for free.
Where: Various Venues
When: During September
Price: FREE
11. Ride Boris’s Bikes
Benefit from the quickest, greenest and most easy way to view the whole London city, for as long as you like. Named after London’s Mayor Boris Johnson, there are over 10,000 bikes, available at 700 stations situated in east and central London. Barclays Cycle Hire literally has docking stations on every 300 to 500 metres across 10 London boroughs, including Regent’s Park and Hyde Park. Check all you need to know about this alternative fun way of exploring the city at your own pace — another cheap, but cool thing to do in London.
All you have to do is follow 3 easy steps:
1. Hire a Bike from one of the 700 city stations
2. Ride it to all your desired locations
3. Return it to a station of your choice, ready for the next person to use
Where: Throughout east and central London
Price: The first hour is free of charge, after that it’s just 1£ per hour
12. Stalk Celebrities
London is the birthplace of many famous people. There are also many stars living here, plus there are big events held on monthly basis. One sure way to spot your favourite celeb is to go to a film premiere and Leicester Square hosts those regularly. Getting in might be too pricey, but standing outside is free for sure.
Where: Leicester Square
When: Various dates
Price: FREE
13. Take a Photo of Yourself by Sanyo
Our last fun and free thing to do in London: Sanyo is a giant advertisement which spans on 340 square feet. It’s on this one side of Piccadilly Circus and looks like a mini Times Square. If you think you won’t go to New York any time soon, this can be your consolation prize.
Where: Piccadilly Circus
When: Preferably in the evening, when it’s dark
Price: FREE
I hope I have proven my point — There are many fun free things to do in London! Hopefully, this alternative guide will inspire you to try out something unusual, cool and quirky next time you are in UK’s capital.
