Blogs, Insights
Making the most of everything London has to offer – now that Spring is in full swing!
By Alex Goodfellow, PR Assistant
Propelled by an energy that is particular to Spring, we wanted to start the season of new beginnings by coming up with inspiration for things to do in the capital. Despite living in one of the most culturally rich cities in the world, it is easy to get into the same grooves and forget the diversity of art, history and entertainment London has to offer.
We’ve created a list of our favourite things to do in London – and they are all low cost or even free!
The great outdoors
London is technically a forest (according to a United Nations definition!), with parks offering green oases which are woven into the fabric of the city. Some notable places to visit include: Hyde Park, Kew Gardens, St James’ Park, Greenwich Park, Hampstead Heath and Primrose Hill. Exploring London’s outdoors is a great way of visiting new areas whilst getting some much-needed sunlight and nature – taking advantage of the warmer temperature and longer evenings.
Markets
Wandering around London’s markets is an ideal way to spend a lazy Sunday with friends or family. There are a wide variety across the capital which are home to street food, vintage clothing, antiques and more. Must-see markets include: Borough Market, Columbia Road Flower Market and Camden Market. Weekend markets present a charming alternative to busy shopping centres with many rooted in a strong sense of community and history. Even if you don’t buy anything you will come away with a strong feel for the place and people.
Nights out
Research by Rekom UK found that people are spending less on nights out and going out less frequently – which means it’s worth seeking out the unusual and interesting for every trip.
Tate Modern Lates offer DJ Sets and workshops – and it’s one of many London institutions to put on late nights, alongside the Natural History Museum and the V&A. You could even plan to visit a different museum each month. Most of these late nights are free however some do charge for tickets. These institutions, each architectural masterpieces in their own right, make epic after hours venues.
Museums and galleries
London is unique in having a plethora of museums and galleries which are free to enter. For example, the Tate (Modern and Britain), the National Portrait Gallery and the British Museum can all be explored free of charge, with many encouraging optional donations.
The Barbican is one I am looking to visit soon. It is home to a vast, green conservatory completed with beautiful sculptures by Ranjani Shettar. Whilst there are a range of exhibitions on at any given time, it is worth visiting just for its distinctive brutalist architecture.
Theatre and comedy
London has plenty of exciting, affordable events for all those who love their entertainment.
The Top Secret Comedy Club is a favourite, where you won’t know what comedians are performing until they are on the stage in front of you. This is the perfect way to see a range of comics, from famous faces to fresh talent, and maybe even discover some gems!
What’s more, the National Theatre, the Barbican and the Tate Modern all have reduced prices for under 25s. The National Theatre has tickets available for £10 and under, while at the Barbican and the Tate you can visit exhibitions for £5. Snap these up while you can and see London’s best art, film and theatre at a fraction of the cost.
We hope that this has given you some food for thought as well as an appetite to wander, dance and read your way around the capital.
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