Free things to do in London this summer

London is brimming with exciting and free activities to enjoy this summer. Experience London's rich history and natural splendor as you explore Walthamstow Wetlands, the largest urban wetlands in Europe. Discover the enchanting gardens and grounds of Fulham Palace, an ancient treasure filled with exciting stories from the past, or spend your summer evenings with complimentary movie screenings against the backdrop of towering skyscrapers in Canary Wharf. Here are our top picks of fantastic free things to do in London this summer. 

Festival14 at Canary Wharf

Image: CanaryWharf Festival14

#FLODown: Canary Wharf's Festival14, a free-to-attend event, is making a comeback this July with an impressive lineup of internationally renowned performers. From 26-30 July 2023, attendees can enjoy five days of music, laughter, and entertainment. Soul II Soul, Craig Charles, and Ronnie Scott's Jazz Orchestra are among the headline acts, while comedians Paul Chowdhry and Mark Watson promise to bring the laughs. Families can also partake in outdoor theatre featuring Shakespeare by 440 Theatre and the Family Rave organised by Big Fish Little Fish.

Location: Throughout Canary Wharf, Canary Wharf, London, E14 . Website: canarywharf.com

Gaia at Landmark Arts Centre

Image: Gaia at Natural History Museum, 2018

#FLODown: Gaia, the remarkable floating earth artwork by Luke Jerram, will once again grace the city this June. Prepare to be mesmerised by Gaia's awe-inspiring display of NASA imagery, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of our planet's surface. Following its successful appearances at Canary Wharf and the Painted Hall in Greenwich, Gaia will be making a highly anticipated return to the Landmark Arts Centre from 16 June - 2 July 2023. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to witness the remarkable beauty of Gaia, and be sure to have your camera or phone ready to capture the unforgettable moment. Additionally, the exhibition will feature a range of exciting events, including music concerts, family activities, yoga classes, and more, creating a truly immersive experience for visitors of all ages.

Location: Landmark Arts Centre, Ferry Rd, Teddington TW11 9NN. Book now.

The Line

Image: Alberta Whittle, between a whisper and a cry (2019)

#FLODown: The Line is an exciting public art project in East London, connecting Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park to The O2 along waterways and the Greenwich Meridian. This summer, visitors can explore London's largest free public art walk, discovering artworks by renowned artists like Yinka Ilori and Alberta Whittle. Highlights include exhibitions, art tours, wellbeing walks, creative activities, and talks at The House Mill, providing a space for contemplation, adventure, and discovery. The Line offers a unique blend of art and nature along East London's waterways, also showcasing works by renowned artists such as Tracey Emin and Antony Gormley. Click here for the full line up of events.

Location: The Line Sculpture Trail, Olympian Way, London, 0AX. Website: the-line.org.

Walthamstow Wetlands

Image: Walthamstow Wetlands, @walthamstowwetlands

#FLODown: Walthamstow Wetlands, Europe's largest urban wetlands, is a sprawling 211-hectare site divided into two parks and serves as a Thames Water reservoir supplying water to 3.5 million people. It is also an internationally significant nature reserve, providing a vital habitat for a diverse range of wildlife. After 150 years, the site opened to the public in October 2017, offering free admission. Conveniently located just a five-minute walk from a London Underground station, it is easily accessible from Blackhorse Road and Tottenham Hale Tube stations and only 15 minutes from central London. With ten interconnected reservoirs and abundant bird and wildlife species, Walthamstow Wetlands is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the wetlands, visit the Visitor Centre and Café, and engage with dedicated staff and volunteers. It's a remarkable opportunity to escape the city and immerse oneself in the tranquility of London's largest urban wetlands.

Location: 2 Forest Rd, London N17 9NH. Website: wildlondon.org.uk

The Hill Garden and Pergola and Kyoto Garden

Image: The Hill Garden and Pergola, Hampstead Heath. © MTotoe

#FLODown: The Hill Garden and Pergola and Kyoto Gardens are hidden gems in London, offering unique and free attractions. The Hill Garden and Pergola in Hampstead Heath, once a lavish venue for Edwardian garden parties, retains a special atmosphere despite its fading grandeur.

Image: Kyoto Gardens, Holland Park,

Kyoto Gardens, located in Holland Park, provide a peaceful and beautiful escape in the heart of the city. Both places offer free admission and are perfect for a quiet day out, whether alone, with friends, a partner, or the whole family.

 Location: The Hill Garden and Pergola: The Pergola, Inverforth Cl, London NW3 7EX. Kyoto Garden: Holland Park, Holland Park Ave, London W11 4UA

Fulham Palace House & Garden

Image: Fulham Palace House and Gardens. @fulhampalace

#FLODown: Fulham Palace House and Gardens in west London is a historic and lesser-known attraction that offers free admission to visitors. This hidden gem, once the residence of the Bishops of London for over 1,300 years, has recently undergone a restoration project funded by the Heritage Lottery. Explore the museum and historic rooms to discover the stories of Fulham Palace's past inhabitants. Discover the fascinating collection of exotic plants owned by Bishop Compton and experience the grandeur of the Tudor great hall. As you wander through the garden, be on the lookout for the beautiful displays of spring bulbs, blossoming apple arches, and the lively bird song and wildlife activity. Fulham Palace and Gardens provide a serene escape where history, nature, and beauty intertwine seamlessly.

Location: Bishop's Ave, London SW6 6EA. Website: fulhampalace.org

Crossrail Place Roof Garden

Image: Crossrail Roof Garden, Canary Wharf

#FLODown: The Crossrail Place Roof Garden is one of London's largest free-to-visit gardens, providing a peaceful oasis in Canary Wharf. It is open daily until 9pm or sunset during the summer, allowing visitors to leisurely explore the garden, admire exotic plants, and enjoy moments of relaxation on hidden pathways and benches. The garden is uniquely located along the Meridian line, with plants arranged based on their respective hemispheres. It also serves as an amphitheatre for various free events throughout the year. The Roof Garden offers a pleasant contrast between nature and the modern skyscrapers of Canary Wharf.

Location: Crossrail Place Roof Garden,Crossrail Pl, London E14 5AB. Website: canarywharf.com

Sky Garden

Image: Sky Garden. © MTotoe

#FLODown: The Sky Garden, London's highest public garden, is a beloved attraction that provides breathtaking views of the city. Visitors can wander through the gardens while also relishing in the opportunity to dine at rooftop bars and restaurants. Unlike other pricey viewing platforms, the Sky Garden can be accessed free of charge by making an advanced booking. Moreover, the Sky Garden hosts a range of ticketed events throughout the summer, including invigorating sunrise yoga sessions and fun music nights. Click here for more on their upcoming summer events. Location: 1, Sky Garden Walk, London EC3M 8AF. Website: skygarden.london

 

The Barbican Conservatory

Image: The Barbican Conservatory. © MTotoe

#FLODown: In addition to its theatre and concert programmes, the Barbican holds a secret free attraction: the Barbican Conservatory. This greenhouse, London's second largest, houses a variety of tropical plants, waterfalls, and stunning glass ceilings. It's hard to believe you're still in central London when surrounded by this lush oasis. Free tickets for the Conservatory can be booked online one week in advance.

Location: Silk St, London EC2Y 8DS. Book now.

God's Own Junkyard

Image: God's Own Junkyard. @godsownjunkyard

#FLODown: God's Own Junkyard, located in Walthamstow, East London, is a unique and quirky free attraction that truly stands out! Situated on an industrial estate, it houses an impressive collection of vintage neon signs and sculptures, making it a neon nirvana. Created by Chris Bracey, the artist behind iconic signs in Tim Burton films, these neon artworks are full of character. The café on-site, called 'The Rolling Scones,' adds to the charm of the place. While God's Own Junkyard may no longer be a hidden gem, it remains one of the coolest and most Instagrammable free activities in London. Spending an hour or two exploring this neon wonderland is a must-do for those looking for a unique and memorable experience, while having a drink at the on-site café. Location: Unit 12, Ravenswood Industrial Estate, Shernhall St, London E17 9HQ.Website: godsownjunkyard.co.uk

Columbia Road Flower Market

Image: Columbia Road Flower Market. © MTotoe

#FLODown: Located in East London, Columbia Road Flower Market is a hidden gem and a must-visit destination. Every Sunday, this vibrant market transforms the charming and historic Columbia Road into a colourful spectacle, offering a diverse range of blooms and plants at affordable prices. The market's lively atmosphere is worth experiencing, whether you're observing the bustling activity or enjoying the banter between the stall holders. To avoid the crowds, it is recommended to arrive before 9 am. Situated near Bethnal Green and Shoreditch, Columbia Road Flower Market is not only a place to purchase flowers but also an opportunity to acquaint yourself with the vibrant culture of East London.

Location: Columbia Road Flower Market, Columbia Rd, London E2 7RG. Website: columbiaroad.info

Free Movie Night

Image: Corina Rainer

#FLODown: Movie Nights are back in Canary Wharf's Canada Square Park, offering a series of free screenings every Tuesday evening throughout June and August. From romantic comedies to action thrillers, there's a film to suit every taste. Grab your picnic blanket and favourite cinema snacks, and settle down under the stars for an unforgettable cinematic experience. The lineup includes movies like Top Gun: Maverick, Black Panther, Kinky Boots, Mamma Mia, 10 Things I Hate About You, and Isle of Dogs. Don't miss this opportunity to enjoy movies in a beautiful outdoor setting in Canary Wharf.

Location: Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5AB. Website: canarywharf.com