The walkway alongside the Thames is one of London’s most bustling destinations. Begin at Big Ben, cross over the Thames and continue to walk on the same side as the London Eye. Along the Thames to the Tower Bridge, you’ll pass street side bookstalls, food trucks, skateboard arenas and street side cafes. The walk from Big Ben to the London Bridge is 2.3 miles. I recommend going to the next bridge, The Tower Bridge, crossing the river and heading to the Tower of London.
Discover the unforgettable past of London at this museum. Begin your journey by discovering the Roman and Saxon heritage followed by the medieval, Renaissance and Victorian past. Gaze at Lord Mayor’s carriage or read about the catastrophic plague, anything you’ve ever wanted to know about London you can find it here.
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There is no lack of bridge walking along the Thames. Luckily, you won’t need a tightrope, but you will need plenty of time. I recommend walking Millennium Bridge. It’s modern, abstract structure is trippy to the eye and “bridges the gap” between the old and the new. The pedestrian bridge connects Tate Modern and St. Paul’s to Shakespeare’s Globe in Southwark.
Although shopping is not free, soaking up the eclectic atmosphere at the Camden market stalls is free. Here, you’ll discover cheap eats, everything from burritos to noodle dishes. The grunge vibe still exists, though its nothing compared to what it used to be. Today you’ll find cheap souvenirs all of which are made in China, Bangladesh or India.
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Known as a “Royal Garden,” this Italian garden is home to Kensington Palace. Many come to observe the Peter Pan statue and to admire the Serpentine Gallery and Albert Memorial. This is a must-see during the summer months.
For the ultimate British experience, head to Buckingham Palace. Known as Guard Mounting, the daily changing of the guards begins at 11:30am and lasts for 45 minutes. The Queen’s Guard is the head-honcho and wears sashes alongside with the red tunic and bearskin hat. Once you bore of the arduous guard change, explore the Buckingham Palace Gardens. Sit on a bench, eat some ice cream or feed the ducks – the choice is yours.
Britain’s dark religious past includes the battles between a Catholic to a Protestant nation. Notable churches and cathedrals include St. Paul’s, St. Dunstan’s, Southwark Cathedral, Holy Trinity and Westminster Cathedral.
Visit Art Galleries in SOHO
Art galleries in SOHO are an important aspect of the British art scene. Whether it’s paintings or digital art, the modern art scene boasts a variety of showings and events. Check out galleries such as Lazarides, Pace London, Sadie Coles HQ and Southard Reid.
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Rated five-stars, and one of the best museums in the world, The British Museum is a must-do on every London itinerary. Take a walk through human history as the collection spans over 2 million years of human history. Founded in 1753, this museum is notable for containing the Rosetta Stone, Parthenon sculptures, Egyptian mummies and cultural artifacts. The museum does not feature air conditioning so expect a hot and sweaty summer visit.
Explore a myriad of collections from silhouettes to 16th Century Elizabethan paintings. With more than 200,000 portraits, it’s easy to spend an entire afternoon admiring some of the greatest works of art. Here you’ll find some of Britain’s most prominent paintings such as Anne Boleyn, King Henry VIII, Katharine of Aragon, Coronation of Elizabeth I and Robert Dudley. The museum is free, but certain exhibitions charge an entry fee.
What is your favorite free thing to do in London? Let us know!
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