As the country begins to emerge from lockdown, I’ve found myself thinking less about my government sanctioned daily walks back in April. Instead, I’ve been thinking about all that cool *stuff* to do when I’m back in London. So rather than quietly mulling by myself, I thought I’d share a list of some of the best free things you can do when all this is over!
Sky Garden
Looking for all of nature’s allure with a side serving of London’s panoramic views? Then London’s Sky Garden at the top of 20 Fenchurch Street, more commonly known as ‘The Walkie Talkie Building’.
Complete with two floors of designed garden and views to die for, this is the perfect spot to feel like you’re on top of the world. Additionally, there are numerous bars and restaurants but these verge on the pricier side!
Abbey Road
You’d be hard pressed to find someone in the UK who doesn’t know about the iconic zebra crossing outside Abbey Road Studios. After all, if it’s good enough for a Beatles album cover, then it’s good enough for millions of instagram feeds!
The street itself is located in North London just around the corner from St. John’s Wood station. Think tree lined roads and pristine terraced London mansions, it’s perfect for a short stroll on a sunny day. Just be careful of cars while getting your own iconic album cover creation.
Tate Britain
In my own opinion, Tate Britain doesn't get nearly enough love as it deserves. Constantly overshadowed by its larger sibling Tate Modern, it means the crowds are much smaller here.
Everything about this gallery is much more sophisticated, from it’s interior and exterior design through to its constantly changing exhibitions. It’s located a short stroll away from Pimlico station and is a stone’s throw away from the sights at Westminster.
Even better, there’s no entry fee!
Primrose Hill & Camden Pub Lunch
If you’re looking for a view and don’t feel like visiting the top of a skyscraper to The Sky Garden, then Primrose Hill is where you need to go! Located on the sloping hill from Camden High Street to Regent’s Park, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better view of the city.
To top off your visit, the range of food options available in Camden is too high to count. But my personal recommendation would be hopping on a bus to Kentish Town to visit The Bull and Gate.
Leake Street Arches
From the throws of nature to one of my favourite spots in London; Leake Street Arches. Underneath the rail lines at Waterloo, there’s a tunnel frequented by some of London’s most talented street and graffiti artists. The artwork changes so often, it’s normal to visit only a few days apart and for the walls to look completely different.
Even better, there’s a street food market round the corner on the weekends. If you’re looking for the perfect add on after visiting, you can hop on TFL’s riverboat service from Waterloo pier to North Greenwich for just £7.
Neal’s Yard
Neal’s Yard is one of London’s most popular instagrammable spots for a reason. Hidden away between buildings in Covent Garden, the colourful brick buildings and independent coffee stores are a treat for anyone. It’s best visited on a sunny day, due the large amount of outdoor seating and is the perfect way to treat yourself before catching a show on The West End!
Picnic on Clapham Common
Clapham Common is, by far, London’s superior picnic setting. With vast open green space, right on the doorstep of Clapham High Street you can have a picnic as low key or as extra as you’d like. It’s the perfect spot to have a get together with friends once we’re all able to cross that 2m boundary!
Deer Spotting in Richmond Park
Richmond Park is definitely a little on the outskirts of London but the tube journey into Zone 4 will be worth your while! Complete with botanical plantations, cycling paths and real life deer herds, this is by a mile one of the most magical places in London. If you’re planning on visiting between May and July be sure to keep any dogs on a leash as this is the birthing season!
Little Venice
Bringing things a little closer to Central London, Little Venice is another hidden gem. Located just a ten minute walk away from Paddington, the area is made up of a series of canals and cute side streets. Full of beautiful scenery, it’s brilliant for a sunny Autumn walk or a boozy brunch with your nearest and dearest.
Dunstan In The East
If you’re in East London and have a spare 20 minutes, seeking out this hidden oasis will be a treat. Inside the ruins of a church is a tranquil garden full of benches and gothic architecture. It’s also located just around the corner from The Sky Garden on Fenchurch Street so you can even tick off two spots in one trip!
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