28
Aug
People often lament that London is expensive. I suppose that depends on how you prefer to spend your time. If you love immersing yourself in fine art, wandering through history or quietly watching sunset from an idyllic location, then this list will work for you.
London offers an extraordinary range of free activities, from rooftop gardens with sweeping views to galleries and museums filled with some of the world’s most exquisite art and artefacts. You can find the full list here. I found it very difficult to choose my favourites as I love them all and have been back many times, always discovering something new. For now, here are my favourites, each offering a distinctly London experience.
11. British Museum
Step through its grand neo-classical façade, which I always stop for some time to admire, and you are instantly transported across millennia. The Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the Egyptian mummies are all here.
As daylight fades what better way to experience one of the oldest buildings and most significant buildings in London than with the ancient ritual of Evensong. The voices of the choir swirl through the quire as something spiritual descends over its congregation. A very moving and unique way to experience the Abbey.
9. Natural History Museum
Spend some time admiring the soaring Gothic Revival and Romanesque-style architecture, the sweeping staircases and the 162 hand decorated panels that adorn the Hintze Hall ceiling before wandering through the marvels of the natural world. Of course, you will have to see Hop, the giant 25.2-metre-long blue whale that is suspended from the ceiling.
This time history comes alive through portraits. From Tudor monarchs to contemporary figures such as the young Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret, Vivien Leigh, Ed Sheeran and the famous unfinished portrait of the Brontë sisters, thought to have been created by their brother, Branwell. In addition to these fine portraits, the Taylor Wessing Photo Portrait Prize can be viewed from around Nov – Feb.
With the finest collection of Turner paintings, Constable and the Pre-Raphaelites and more than 350 brilliant British artists from 1500 to the present. Whilst the Turner are my absolute favourite, I also marvel at the Henry Moore sculptures. Also a favourite, is take tea in the very cool lower ground tea shop but you’ll have to pay for that.
6. Sunrise - Tower Bridge
There is something magical about the rising sun so if you’re up for an early start, head down to London Bridge and take in London’s iconic Tower Bridge as it is bathed in the glow of the morning light. A moment of peace in a bustling city.
Sky Garden offers panoramic views of London whilst the lush greenery counterpoints the stunning steel and glass atrium. I have been many times during all times of the day, but timing my visit with sunset is my favourite. Tip: You need to book tickets around 3 weeks in advance so keep an eye on the website for these openings.
I think I would have loved Sir John Soane, a visionary architect who collected all sorts of art, antiquities and curiosities, then donated the buildings and everything within for us to enjoy at no charge.
Housed in a beautiful townhouse near Marylebone, this collection combines Old Master paintings, fine furniture and exquisite arms and armour although my favourite is the intimate and elegant decoration of the building itself. Also, another spot to enjoy a cup of tea of coffee or even a bite of lunch.
The Victoria and Albert is the world’s leading museum of art and design, and quite possibly my favourite. From medieval tapestries to Alexander McQueen gowns, it celebrates human creativity in all its forms. The central courtyard offers a peaceful pause between galleries. I have been known to each my lunch whilst children frolic about the central fountain.
Ceremony, precision and a touch of spectacular. Watching the King’s Guard in their tunics and sometimes grey overcoats and bearskin hats marching to the sound of their military band is tradition at its finest, and quintessentially British, which is why it is my number one thing to do in London. For tips on where and when to see the march, check out my post here.
Thanks for stopping by. It was difficult to make a final cut. There is just so much London offers at no charge.
This list will probably evolve over time and the big list is coming soon, so stay tuned.
Meanwhile stay well.
p.s. this is me at Sir John Soane’s Museum taken by my friend James. It’s one of my favourite all time photos of me.
Take care Nina xx
