Yes, it’s that time of year again: January! That wonderful, early, pre-Christmas paycheque seems like a lifetime ago, and the two weeks before the next payday are dragging on forever. If you live in London though, there’s no need to despair! There are loads of great things to do that won’t cost you a penny…here are my top five:
1. Museums & art galleries:
dinosaur at the Natural History Museum
London is home to some pretty incredible museums and art galleries, and most of them are free! You could see edgy modern art, dinosaur fossils, classic portraits, weapons, aircraft and priceless pieces of art without paying anything. Check out this list of free museums and free art galleries in London…there’s something to cater to everyone’s taste there.
2. Walk through London’s parks:
view from Greenwich Park
For such a large and bustling city, London boasts some impressive green spaces. From Greenwich Park in the East, to Hyde Park in Central London, to Richmond Park just outside of central London, and many more between, there is no shortage of areas to relax and get away from city life. Take a picnic if the weather is fine, or just stroll around and enjoy the scenery. Here’s a list of London’s best parks…
3. Wander through the markets:
watch out for pufferfish at Borough Market!
My favourite thing to do in London on a Saturday is visit one of the many markets. My personal favourite is Portobello Road, where you can buy antiques, fresh (and cheap) produce and funky clothing. Borough Market is another favourite of mine, specialising in gourmet food – the displays are so beautiful I just can’t get enough photos! If neither of those markets are near you, there’s bound to be something close-by. Check out this guide to London’s Markets to see what’s nearest to you.
4. Stroll along the South Bank:
London Eye
There is always something to see and do on London’s South Bank. Get off the tube at Waterloo (and follow the signs to the London Eye) or Embankment (and cross Westminster Bridge). Head East along the river, passing buskers, market stalls, public events and some of the world’s most famous landmarks. I like to walk all the way to Tower Bridge to see the Tower of London and the infamous bridge, but you can walk as much or as little as you like; you’ll certainly be entertained along the way.
5. Do a Monopoly day:
People say January is depressing, but it doesn’t have to be boring! Why not get creative, and challenge yourself to see all the roads and landmarks from one side of the classic Monopoly board? You’ll probably see parts of London you’ve never visited before, and you may even discover some great new places. I don’t recommend trying to see the whole Monopoly board in one day though. Take it from me…it’s exhausting!!
Primose Hill has the BEST view of London… Just hope its not a rubbish rainy weekend!
http://g.co/maps/usq7j
Yes, I’ve heard that and have been meaning to go! Thanks for the tip :-)
I adore the Natural History Museum but you’ve also included my absolute favourite thing, which is just to stroll down the South Bank – heaven.
life/style/flash.
If only I lived in London… dammit! xx