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Free Things to Do in London: 90 Spots To Visit On a Budget

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free things to do in london off the beaten path

A complete guide to free things to do in London on a budget and off the beaten path, from beautiful neighborhoods to unusual and historical sites!

Just because you’re visiting one of the most crowded cities in the world doesn’t mean you absolutely have to stay around the landmarks.

But you know, even a lot of Shakespeare locations in London are a little bit off the beaten path.

Along with free museums, colorful places and secret mews streets, they make visiting London so much more special.

Whether you’re spending just one day in London, three days or ten days, I’ve crafted a guide filled with some of my favorite hidden gems.

Since I’ve lived in London on a budget for literal years, and still do part of the year, these secret and unusual spots are some I’ve visited so many times that I can’t even clearly remember how many times.

Free Things to Do in London: 90 Spots To Visit On a Budget

free things to do in london off the beaten path - st dunstan in the east church ruins

If you’ve been on The Working Line before, you’ll have seen me write a lot about free historical sites and whatnot.

London’s history definitely has something on me, and you’ll understand more about my love for the city’s past as you read through this guide.

From unusual museums and stately homes to free art galleries, I really wanted to share with you all the free, secret places I’ve come to know.

These are all places you should have on your bucket list, especially if you’re traveling to London for the first time and would rather not fight your way through crowds of tourists!

The Best Free Things to Do in London: Visiting Beautiful Streets and Buildings

Visiting beautiful streets and buildings is one of my favorite things to do in London; I usually choose an area and allow myself to get lost so as to come across new hidden gems.

The places below are some I’ve recently discovered and loved, and there are many more secret courtyards, alleys and passageways in London worth a visit if you’re interested in that side of things.

Beautiful Streets in London: Luke Street, Shoreditch

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On my way from Shoreditch High Street to Mark Street Gardens, I came across Luke Street and absolutely loved the look of the Georgian buildings.

Many East London streets have this towering look with beautiful doors and slightly arched windows, making them a perfect photo spot if you’re wandering around Shoreditch!

Read: The Most Instagrammable Places in Istanbul

Beautiful Streets in London: Alderman’s Walk, East London

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Alderman’s Walk is a quite secret alley located behind St Botolph Without Bishopsgate church, with beautiful brickwork and arched windows that will make you feel like you’ve been taken back into time.

This type of historic street lost between the Liverpool Street skyscrapers is one of the many reasons to love London – and a really cute place to visit on a historic walk.

Read: The Most Colorful Cities in Europe

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Beautiful Streets in London: Columbia Road, East London

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The Columbia Road Flower Market is one of the most famous markets in London, and the street in itself is one of the most picturesque in town.

You can walk from the Museum of the Home to Columbia Road in a short time; walk down until you find short houses, colorful shop windows and you’ll feel like you’re in a tiny English village.

Read: The Most Colorful Cities in the World

Beautiful Streets in London: Fournier St and Wilkes St off Commercial Road

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Fournier Street and Wilkes Street are two incredibly beautiful streets located just off Old Spitalfields Market, and two where time seems suspended.

Fournier Street, in particular, is particularly known for its Georgian buildings and washed out colors, and a perfect spot to practice street photography.

Read: The Cutest Pink Places in the World

Beautiful Streets in London: Puma Court, off Old Spitalfields Market

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Also located in Spitalfields, Puma Court is a colorful passageway lined with old shop windows – not much is happening there, but it’s one of the prettiest streets in East London.

At sunset, it’s a great place to take pictures, and you’re just a couple of minutes away from Poppies Fish and Chips and some other really cool food spots.

Read: The Most Instagrammable Cafes in NYC

Beautiful Streets in London: Founders’ Court, City of London

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Founders’ Court in the City of London is easily accessible from Bank Station, and is one of the oldest places in London – there’s not end to the street, but the architecture makes it a must-visit place in my book.

Read: The Most Instagrammable Cafes in Istanbul

Beautiful Buildings in London: Tivoli Corner, City of London

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Now, I’m the kind of person who is always on the lookout for Italian places in London, and by that, I don’t only mean Italian food spots and Italian cafes.

The Tivoli Corner at Bank Station is one of these places, designed by none other than Sir John Soane in the 19th century with impressive neoclassical features.

Read: The Most Magical Parks & Gardens in Rome

Beautiful Buildings in London: The Blind Beggar Pub, Whitechapel

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The Blind Beggar is one of the most beautiful pubs in London, and one associated with Jack the Ripper, making it one of the creepiest places you can visit.

We’re in the heart of Whitechapel, not that far from either Stepney Green or Aldgate, and the facade of this pub just calls for pictures.

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in Rome

The Best Free Things to Do in London: Free & Secret Gardens and Parks

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Let’s keep going with famous and more secret gardens; London is full of them and many are historic places dating back to the Middle Ages.

They’re perfect places to write in London, read, relax, or have a picnic with your other half if you’re planning a romantic date!

Best Free and Secret Gardens in London: Exchange Square, City of London

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Exchange Square, despite its location right behind Liverpool Street Station, is a secret and manicured garden complete with fountains and sculptures that belong to the Broadgate Circle Art Trail.

Walking around London and coming across fountains and waterfalls you didn’t know about is always something exciting, and since Exchange Square is more of a local-known place, I’d definitely recommend you check it out!

Read: The Must Have Apps to Survive in London

Best Free and Secret Gardens in London: St Pancras Church Garden, City of London

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St Pancras Church Garden is one of the most unusual places in London; the wooden carved benches are unlike anything you’ll see in town.

Right in the heart of the City of London, St Pancras Church Garden is established on the site of a former church destroyed during the Great Fire of London, and so secret there are barely any people there ever.

Find here my guide to St Pancras Church Gardens in the City; an unexpected garden filled with carved benches and medieval sculptures.

Best Free and Secret Gardens in London: Greyfriars Christ Church

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One of the most secret church gardens in London, Greyfriars Christ Church was turned into a garden after suffering damages during the Great Fire of London and the World War II Blitz.

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We’re close to the St Dunstan in the East church ruins, but not only.

Since there are many hidden gems in the City of London, I’d recommend walking around towards Holborn or St Paul’s to find incredible architecture once you’re done visiting Greyfriars Christ Church.

Read: The Best Tips for Student Budget in London

Best Free and Secret Gardens in London: St Olave’s Ironmonger Lane

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St Olave’s garden on Ironmonger Lane is probably one of the smallest and most secret gardens in London.

With only a couple of benches, it’s definitely a cozy place where you can come to gather your thoughts or read a secondhand book snatched in one of the many used bookshops in town.

Read: How to Move to London – and Survive as an Expat

Best Free and Secret Gardens in London: Crystal Palace Park

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Located in South East London, Crystal Palace Park is another perfect place to visit in London if you’re on a budget.

With Sphinx sculptures, a Hollow Lady and a Sitting Lady adorning the grounds, it’s a really unusual spot.

What makes Crystal Palace Park more interesting, though, is the incredible Dinosaur Trail – unforgettable!

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Best Free and Secret Gardens in London: Dulwich Park

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Easily accessible from the Horniman Museum and Gardens, Dulwich Park is one of London’s most beautiful parks.

With its immaculate lawns, it’s a perfect place to relax before visiting the Dulwich Picture Gallery nearby.

Read: The Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to London

Best Free and Secret Gardens in London: Dutch Garden

The Dutch Garden in Holland Park is one of London’s most secret gardens, and a favorite of mine.

Kyoto Garden, two minutes away from the Dutch Garden, is one of the prettiest Japanese gardens in London, but the Dutch Garden is still a quite well hidden gem.

Perfect to see London in bloom with the multicolor tulips opening in the spring…

And there are many hidden gems in the Dutch Garden to discover, from sculptures to a giant chessboard!

Read: How to Pack Your Suitcase for Digital Nomads

Best Free and Secret Gardens in London: Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park

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One of the Magnificent Seven cemeteries of London, the Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park is located a few minutes away from Mile End Tube station, and one of my favorite parks to tread when it’s warm out.

It’s also a perfect place to enjoy autumn colors in London, and from angel sculptures to winding paths, Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park offers many unusual sights – completely for free.

Read: Advantages and Disadvantages of Life in a Hostel

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Best Free and Secret Gardens in London: Postman’s Park

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The Postman’s Park is one of the most unique places to visit in London; completely free, it makes for a quiet spot to read and write.

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The Watts Memorial of Self-Sacrifice is one of the highlights of this manicured garden, but also offers beautiful angles for photography.

Read: The Best Harry Potter Locations in London

Best Free and Secret Gardens in London: Reflection Garden

If you’re looking for free things to do in London for couples, the Reflection Garden near St Paul’s is one of the most romantic places you can find.

The clean pond, surrounded with a few benches, gives off soothing vibes, and the Reflection Garden is actually located on the site of a former City of London church destroyed during the Great Fire of London.

Read: Why Are There Colorful Streets in London?

Best Free and Secret Gardens in London: Kyoto Garden

Kyoto Garden in Holland Park is one of the most beautiful gardens in London, and with its koi carps, ponds and waterfall, is a great place to see nature.

There are many places to see water in London, but this one, early in the morning, is one that allows you to reflect on life without being interrupted.

It’s also a great place to see cherry blossom in London, and if you want to see tulips blooming, head on over to the Dutch Garden!

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in Brick Lane

Best Free and Secret Gardens in London: Mount Street Gardens, Mayfair

One of Mayfair’s hidden gems, Mount Street Gardens are one of the quietest and most secret gardens in London.

The lawns, the beautiful architecture, and the tiny church entrance in the gardens make Mount Street Gardens a picturesque place to enjoy a calm moment.

Read: The Most Secret Beaches in London

Best Free and Secret Gardens in London: Brown Hart Gardens, Mayfair

If you’d like to find free views of London, Brown Hart Gardens are a great place to start.

Located only a few minutes away from Mount Street Gardens, the terrace garden has everything we might wish for; benches, Italian architecture, and the perfect disposition to enjoy some sun.

Read: London’s Secret Camden Passage, Shops and History

Best Free and Secret Gardens in London: Italian Gardens, Kensington Gardens

There are quite a few places to enjoy Italian architecture in London; the Italian Gardens at Kensington Gardens are a favorite of mine.

Curated at all times of the year, the Italian Gardens are surrounded by sculptures and vases very much reminiscent of those you would find in Rome’s Villa Sciarra, for instance.

You will find a few hidden gems in Kensington Gardens if you walk around a little bit, the Italian Gardens being the ‘least’ hidden of them.

Others include:

  • The Elfin Oak
  • The Peter Pan Statue

Read: London’s Secret Royal Palaces & Castles To Visit

Best Free and Secret Gardens in London: Isabella Plantation, Richmond

Like the Dutch Garden and Kyoto Garden, the Isabella Plantation in Richmond is an amazing free place to visit to see London in bloom.

We might not be in Central London, but since Richmond is one of London’s cutest villages, you have plenty of opportunities to take beautiful pictures and enjoy a bite in an indie coffee shop nearby.

Read: The Prettiest Medieval Sites in London

Best Free and Secret Gardens in London: Mark Street Gardens, Shoreditch

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Mark Street Gardens in Shoreditch is one of the latest secret gardens I’ve discovered, and if you’re planning a romantic date on a budget, I would urge you to visit.

The Gothic architecture is definitely the highlight of Mark Street Gardens, and when it comes to finding free things to do in London for couples, I’d say you can hardly beat that.

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Super quiet, with only a few locals walking around, Mark Street Gardens isn’t only a great place to read or write, but also the perfect photo spot!

Read: The Best Things to Do in Canary Wharf

Best Free and Secret Gardens in London: Horniman Gardens

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The Horniman Gardens face the museum, and with the picturesque rock garden and beautiful design of the central garden, make for a great place to read or draw.

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While we’re pretty far from Central London, if you’re looking for unique and completely free things to do in London, this is indeed a stunning spot, and a great place to take landscape pictures.

Read: The Best Harry Potter Things to Do in London

The Best Free Things to Do in London: Art Galleries & Free Museums to Visit

London is filled with free art galleries and free museums; a lot of these are located in Central London, but if you’re willing to take the Tube, you’ll also discover others around town.

Depending on what you like, you’ll find natural history, science, taxidermy, and really, any and all kinds of really unusual museums worth the visit!

Best Free Museums in London: Horniman Museum & Gardens

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The Horniman Museum, adjacent to the gardens we’ve just seen, is currently one of my favorite free museums in London.

From cultural representations of a Neapolitan presepe to ethnic sculptures and beautiful taxidermy pieces, this museum is one of the best places to visit in London with kids and even offers interactive activities for them.

Read: The Best Free Things to Do on London’s Central Line

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Best Free Museums in London: Museum of the Home, East London

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Located in Hoxton, close to Shoreditch, the Museum of the Home (formerly Geffrye Museum) is famous for its replicas of past-time English interiors.

The Museum of the Home, in addition, has a pretty big garden hidden in the back.

Split into various smaller gardens that mimic what gardens looked like in past centuries, it’s a really interesting place to visit, especially if you’re looking for really quiet places to read in London.

Read: The Best Charity Shops in London

Best Free Museums in London: V&A Museum of Childhood, Bethnal Green

The V&A Museum of Childhood is one of my favorite free museums in East London, especially the dollhouse area, which is both creepy and fascinating.

It’s a big museum in which you’ll find many things to see with kids, but as an adult, the V&A Museum of Childhood is one I particularly love for its correlation to the past.

Plus, its location close to all the Bethnal Green charity shops makes it really easy to access, and once you’re done visiting, you’ll find lots of other East London hidden gems in the surrounding area.

Read: The Best Secondhand Bookshops in London

Best Free Museums in London: Saatchi Gallery, West London

If you ever pop by the beautiful Harrods department store, take some time to visit the Saatchi Gallery.

This contemporary art galleries always has the craziest exhibitions going on, with wild colors, shapes, and committed art pieces.

We’re quite close to the Victoria and Albert Museum and its super instagrammable cafe, and also close to some really instagrammable cafes like Elan Cafe on Hans Crescent.

Read: The Most Beautiful Bookshops in London

Best Free Museums in London: White Cube Gallery, Bermondsey

Located right off Bermondsey Street, the White Cube Gallery is probably one of the strangest free art galleries we have in town, and a good one to visit to get inspired if you’re an artist.

The exhibitions are often colorful and abstract, and the building in itself boasts something quite intimidating.

Start with breakfast in London Bridge, keep going with a visit at the White Cube Gallery, and why not discover some other Southwark hidden gems afterwards?

The Southwark Cathedral, for instance, with its secret churchyard and Shakespeare statue...

Or window-shopping at Brand Academy on Southwark.

It’s pretty easy to spend a complete day in London without spending any money if you know about the city’s hidden gems, and the London Bridge area is filled with them.

Read: The Best British Shops in London

Best Free Museums in London: Whitechapel Gallery

Located close Liverpool Street station, the Whitechapel Gallery was established in 1901 and elbows some of my favorite places to have a halal English breakfast.

This completely free art gallery offers all kinds of engaging art forms, from photography to film and paintings, which are often innovative and socially committed.

You’re also about 15 minutes away from Stepney Green’s Booth Memorial and the adjacent historical almshouse, two other places to visit absolutely if you enjoy the occasional step back in time.

Read: The Best Budget Shops in London

Best Free Museums in London: Victoria and Albert Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum is one of the most famous free places to visit in London; one that is perfect to check out whether you’re traveling to London with friends, solo, or with your other half.

Out of all the free museums in London, the V&A Museum is my favorite because of its large collection of Italian sculptures, and more specifically the replica of Michelangelo’s David.

The collection of gemstones and jewelry is also one that I’ve always been fond of – after all, one of my specialties as a freelance writer was high-end jewelry, and the V&A collection of old jewelry pieces is pretty engrossing.

Read: The Best Stationery Shops in London

Best Free Museums in London: Sir John Soane’s Museum

Located in one of London’s oldest neighborhoods, the Sir John Soane’s Museum celebrates collections of art pieces gathered by the architect who used to live and work in the house.

The many busts, Egyptian artifacts and paintings nestled in the townhouse make it one of the best hidden gems in Holborn, and a museum you absolutely have to have on your bucket list if you’re looking for really unique free things to do in London.

Read: The Best Candle Shops in London

Best Free Museums in London: National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery in Trafalgar Square was established in 1856, and houses a huge collection of portraits featuring individuals who greatly contributed to British history.

You’re close to one of my favorite bookshop cafes, Waterstones, and some of London’s most secret alleyways, like Cecil Court.

Before you visit these and other Covent Garden hidden gems, enjoy the layers of portraiture at the National Portrait Gallery and the impressive architecture, one of the most beautiful in town.

Read: The Best Shopping Centers in London

Best Free Museums in London: Natural History Museum

The National History Museum in South Kensington is one of the most beautiful Victorian buildings in London, and one of the most important museums in London.

The Diplodocus skeleton in the Central Hall and the Dinosaur Gallery are two highlights of the museum, unmissable, but my favorite parts are those related to fossils, minerals and gemstones, which are much lesser-known.

Read: The Prettiest Shopping Arcades in London

Best Free Museums in London: Science Museum

Just like the Natural History Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Science Museum is one of the places you just hear about all the time when looking up free things to do in London.

It’s also one of the best places to visit in London with kids, as many parts of the museum are interactive and teach us more, even as adults, about engineering, psychology, education, and astronomy.

Read: The Biggest TK Maxx in London

Best Free Museums in London: Espacio Gallery, Bethnal Green

Located in Bethnal Green, the Espacio Gallery is one of the most secret art galleries in London, and showcases contemporary art from emerging and established artists.

Established in a converted railway arch, the building in itself, close to some of Bethnal Green’s best cafes, is a really cool place to photograph if you enjoy architecture.

We’re only a couple of minutes away from Beigel Bake Brick Lane, a place in which you’ll try some of the best beigels in London, and the Shoreditch streets that boast ultra colorful street art – the entire area, really, completes a visit to the Espacio Gallery!

Read: The Best Harry Potter Shops in London

Best Free Museums in London: Wellcome Collection, Central London

Located in the Bloomsbury neighborhood, the Wellcome Collection offers a complete collection revolving around science and medicine, with many artifacts and exhibitions that help us learn more about health and anatomy.

It also houses one of London’s quietest study spots, with rich, colorful interiors, and since it’s located close to St Pancras, why not have brunch in King’s Cross before visiting?

Read: Bath and Body Works Shop at Next Westfield

Best Free Museums in London: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich

The maritime neighborhood of Greenwich makes for the cutest village, and in the area, you’ll find the National Maritime Museum, founded in 1937.

Located within Greenwich Park, the museum offers an immersive journey through centuries of trade and naval exploration.

There, you’ll find ship models and personal artifacts that provide insight into the lives of sailors, explorers and merchants who significantly shaped the course of history – a really unusual place to visit in Greenwich!

When you’re done, pop by the vegan bakery Ruby’s of London to try some of the best cupcakes of your life (they taste just like regular cupcakes!), and the Cutty Sark ship before enjoying views of Canary Wharf on the other side of the river.

Read: Where to Have Lunch for £5 in London

Best Free Museums in London: Museum of London Docklands, Poplar

The Museum of London Docklands is located in one of my favorite East London neighborhoods, Poplar, inside a restored Georgian warehouse that feels like you’re stepping back in time.

Various exhibitions, model ships and interactive displays help us understand more about London’s maritime past, one of my favorite facets of the city, and since the museum is completely free, it’s perfect if you’re living in London on a budget!

Read: The Best Cheap Eats in Central London

Best Free Museums in London: Bank of England Museum

In the City of London, if you end up visiting the Inner Temple Gardens and Fleet Street, don’t forget to pop by the Bank of England Museum, located within the Bank of England itself.

The exhibits explore key moments of banking and finance, from the introduction of banknotes to the development of the banking system, with a myriad of artifacts and interactive displays that make the very serious finance topic an actually very enjoyable one.

Read here my guide to the historic Temple area and its hidden gems, from Fountain Court to the secret poetic sundial in Elm Court, photogenic columns facing Temple Church and more.

The Best Free Things to Do in London: Colorful Places to Visit

Whether you’re looking for free things to do in Central London, East or North London, you’ll find colorful streets in pretty much all neighborhoods – these below are a few of my favorites!

Most Colorful Places in London: Camden Town’s Bonny Street

Bonny Street is one of the most colorful streets in Camden Town; a simple row of multicolor houses that make for the perfect influencer photo spot.

It’s easily accessible from Camden Town station, so if you’re ever looking for really cool things to do in Camden Town, do include Bonny Street in your bucket list!

Most Colorful Places in London: Kentish Town’s Falkland Road

Falkland Road in Kentish Town is another one of North London’s most colorful streets, and boasts all kinds of neon and pastel houses.

Since you’re in the area, there’s another place I would recommend you pop by: the Old Eagle Pub.

On one side of the really beautiful pub, you’ll find a huge Simpsons mural, something really unique and a very well-preserved street art piece.

Most Colorful Places in London: Notting Hill’s Lancaster Road

Lancaster Road is one of Notting Hill’s most colorful streets, and probably one of the most famous attractions in London.

We’re really close to Portobello Road Market, and if you just walk around the beautiful West London neighborhood, you’ll find many more cute places to visit.

For instance, one of London’s prettiest mews streets, St Lukes Mews, is located a few steps away from Lancaster Road, and with its blue and pink houses, is an influencer favorite when it comes to photo spots.

Most Colorful Places in London: Notting Hill’s Farmer Place and Farmer Street

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When getting out of Notting Hill Gate tube station, instead of going towards Portobello Road, go the opposite way and you’ll find another collection of really colorful places.

Farmer Place and Farmer Street are some of the most unique places in London, and by walking around, you’ll also come across Uxbridge Street, Callcott Street and Hillgate Place, all more colorful than the next.

Most Colorful Places in London: Carnaby Street

Carnaby Street is one of London’s prettiest streets, and since it’s located close to both Oxford Street and Regent Street, it’s very easy to access.

Out of the many things you can do in Soho, a visit to Carnaby Street is mandatory if you love colorful streets and inspiring makeup and fashion shops.

If you’re traveling to London in winter, Carnaby Street is also one of the top spots to visit to see Christmas lights and decorations, and gets really crowded around that time.

Read: The Best Neapolitan Pizza in London

Most Colorful Places in London: Neal’s Yard

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Neal’s Yard used to be one of the most secret places in London… Not that much anymore.

There are many really cool places to visit and shops in Covent Garden, a lot of which are located all around Neal’s Yard, but not one of them is as colorful.

Monmouth Street, right outside of the hidden courtyard, is one of the prettiest streets in Central London, with independent coffee shops and many boutiques to discover.

Read: The Most Instagrammable Secret Cafes in London

Most Colorful Places in London: Chalcot Square, Primrose Hill

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Chalcot Square in Primrose Hill is located to close to one of the Paddington movie locations, a square surrounded by many colorful houses.

Despite its beauty, Chalcot Square is still one of the London’s most secret places, with almost only locals in the area – and a really unique place to enjoy another side of the city.

Read: The Cutest Floral Cafes in London

Most Colorful Places in London: Romeo and Juliet Mural at New Inn Broadway, Shoreditch

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Located in New Inn Broadway in Shoreditch, on the site of a former theatre, the Romeo and Juliet mural is one of the most unexpected sights in town.

Complete with a Shakespeare statue, of the same kind you’ll find in the Southwark Cathedral garden, the mural is a great homage to the play writer, and a very colorful place at that.

We’re close to all of the coolest coffee shops in Shoreditch, so you could start with breakfast in one of them before exploring New Inn Broadway and all the very colorful spots in nearby streets.

Read: The Most Instagrammable Cafes in London

Most Colorful Places in London: Ackroyd Drive Green Link

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The Ackroyd Drive Green Link is located close to the Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, with colorful murals representing endangered species.

Come when it hasn’t rained in London so you can get closer to the walls and learn more about each of the animals and fish represented!

Read: The Best Italian Cafes in London

Most Colorful Places in London: Garnet Street, Wapping

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If you’re ever looking for places to visit in Wapping, Garnet Street and its row of colorful houses is one of them.

In a historically maritime neighborhood, it’s oh-so-refreshing to discover a multicolor street à la Notting Hill!

Read: The Cutest Bakeries in London

Most Colorful Places in London: New Inn Yard, Shoreditch

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Close to New Inn Broadway, New Inn Yard is another perfectly colorful place in which street art pieces change all the time – not the cartoony mural, though, which makes for a perfect place to visit with kids.

We’re super close to Song Que Cafe, one of my favorite restaurants in Shoreditch.

If you’ve never tried an authentic Vietnamese pho, this is the best place to try it for the first time!

Read: The Best French Bakeries in London

Most Colorful Places in London: Sclater Street, Shoreditch

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Going from Shoreditch High Street station to Brick Lane, you’ll walk through Sclater Street, another one of the most colorful streets in London.

The street art pieces change all the time, but the multicolor brain sculpture has been here for years and I somehow find myself snapping shots of it every time I pop by Sclater Street.

There’s also a street food market happening here regularly, with delicious Indian, Mexican food, and other amazing specialties.

Read: The Best Croissants in London

The Best Free Things to Do in London: Free Churches and Church Gardens

Whenever I delve into sharing recommendations for free activities in London, I can’t overlook highlighting the opportunity to explore the city’s free churches and their accompanying gardens – especially for history enthusiasts like myself.

London’s rich history has been a source of fascination for me for many years.

After much research and walking around, I’ve discovered that many of the city’s churches, tucked away in lesser-known corners that may go unnoticed by locals, are among the most intriguing and secret places to explore in London.

Free Churches and Church Gardens in London: St Bartholomew the Great, Smithfield

Located in Smithfield, one of London’s historic neighborhoods, the St Bartholomew the Great church is one of the most mind blowing you will come across – architecturally speaking, it’s hard to find a grander church.

Not only does it face 41-42 Cloth Fair, the City of London’s oldest house (one that survived the Great Fire of London), but the secret churchyard is a perfect place to read or meditate.

Read: The Best Macarons in London

Free Churches and Church Gardens in London: St Anne’s, Limehouse

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St. Anne’s Church in Limehouse, located in East London, boasts one of the most charming church gardens, complete with a mysterious pyramid.

Adorned with traditional English-style graves, St Anne’s churchyard is open, spacious, and provides a serene backdrop to the architecturally stunning church – one of the East London churches I’ve only recently visited, and absolutely loved.

Read: The Best Cookies in London

Free Churches and Church Gardens in London: St Dunstan in the East

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In the City of London, the St Dunstan in the East church ruins used to be one of London’s best hidden gems, and captivate ever more influencers, solo travelers and families looking for a quiet space to relax.

If you’re looking for really unique places to visit in London, this is one you cannot miss as its location will also allow you to easily access some of the most hidden courtyards and alleys in town.

Read: The Best Cupcakes in London

Free Churches and Church Gardens in London: St Dunstan in the West

Located near Fleet Street and Chancery Lane, two of the oldest streets in London, St Dunstan in the West is one of the most significant churches in the City of London.

With architecture dating back to the 10th century, St Dunstan in the West was renovated several times over the centuries.

The intricate woodwork you will find at the far left of the church, the stained glass windows and round design makes it a beautiful place to visit when you’re in the area, especially since you’re also close to Lincoln’s Inn Chapel and St Bride’s Church.

Read: The Best Pastel de Nata in London

Free Churches and Church Gardens in London: St Bride’s, Fleet Street

St. Bride’s Church on Fleet Street stands out not only as one of the most exquisite churches in the City of London but also as a treasure trove of hidden wonders within.

From its secret crypt to a completely free museum explaining St. Bride’s significant role in London’s history, including breathtaking Roman ruins, the church offers a journey through time and intrigue for visitors to uncover.

Fleet Street’s hidden gems are many, with St Dunstan in the West and Lincoln’s Inn Chapel only a few minutes away, but visiting St Bride’s is one of the completely free London activities I can only recommend over and over again.

Read: The Best Ice Cream in London

Free Churches and Church Gardens in London: Lincoln’s Inn Chapel

A few minutes away from Fleet Street, Lincoln’s Inn Chapel and its impressive columns located right under the chapel is one of the most magical places in London.

The stained glass windows and architecture of the chapel have made me wonder many times why it is always almost empty when I visit.

Very secret, nestled in one of the Four Inns of Court of London, the chapel is a place to have on your bucket list if you’re looking for free historical sites to visit.

Read: The Best Vegan Doughnuts in London

The Best Free Things to Do in London: Free Views of London

Who isn’t ever looking for new free views of London?

Angles of the city can be enjoyed from famous places like Primrose Hill and Southbank, but how about discovering places you might never have seen before?

Best Free Views in London: Views of Canary Wharf from Poplar (Poplar Union Cafe)

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When I visited Poplar and rested at the Poplar Union coffee shop for a moment, the immaculate views on Canary Wharf made me feel all types of ways.

I would recommend having breakfast at Poplar Union, particularly if you enjoy cinnamon buns, as they’re incredible there, before wandering around the adjacent park and admiring the view.

Read: The Best Breakfast in Notting Hill

Best Free Views in London: Paternoster Square to St Paul’s Cathedral

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Paternoster Square is one of my favorite piazzas in London, and one where, until not too long ago, we could admire the Wild Table of Love sculpture that is now located in Paddington.

From Paternoster Square and Canon Alley, you can enjoy free views of St Paul’s Cathedral and its impressive columns (yup – I do have a passion for columns!).

Paternoster Square in itself, with its gate, sculptures and various shops, is a pretty hidden spot to discover when wandering around the City of London solo!

Read: The Best Cat Cafes in London

Best Free Views in London: St Mary Axe, City of London

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St Mary Axe is located in one of the poshest areas of London, in the City, and the views of the skyscrapers at sunset are something else.

You’ll find various Sculpture in the City pieces in the area, with one right in the middle of St Mary Axe, with neons that light up when the sun starts to set.

Read: The Best Cafes in Brixton

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Best Free Views in London: Horselydown Stairs to Tower Bridge

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Horselydown Stairs lead to the Thames River and a clear view of Tower Bridge, near London Bridge; a perfect photo spot if you like architecture and nature photography.

There are often many tourists taking selfies there, so I’d recommend coming early in the day before having brunch in London Bridge!

Read: The Best Halal Burgers in London

Best Free Views in London: Rotherhithe to the City of London

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The maritime neighborhood of Rotherhithe is one of the most secret places to visit in London, and while there’s not much to do there aside from enjoying the architecture, it provides incredible views of the City of London.

Mistake me not – you will find plenty of things to do in Rotherhithe, just not the kind you would in Leicester Square or Oxford Street.

A visit to Rotherhithe is especially suited to people who are in love with London’s history, with picturesque warehouses, secret church gardens, and since Rotherhithe was the departing point of the Mayflower, it’s one of the most significant places in London.

Read: The Best Halal Restaurants in Soho

Best Free Views in London: St Katharine Docks

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St Katharine Docks is located on one end of Tower Bridge, and one of the most beautiful marinas in London.

From there, you can enjoy clear views of the City of London, and since there are many cafes and restaurants in St Katharine Docks, why not have a romantic dinner there at some point?

Walk all the way around St Katharine Docks to the right, and you’ll come across engraved stone seats and picturesque houses that are perfect as a background for photos.

Read: The Best Cafes to Work in London

Best Free Views in London: Horizon 22, City of London

One of the most recently opened free rooftops of London, Horizon 22 is located close to Bank and Liverpool Street, and from the 59th floor, you can enjoy views of pretty much every area of London, from The Shard to Canary Wharf.

It’s completely free to enter, but you do have to book – if you forget to book beforehand, you can still do it with a QR code at the bottom of the building.

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in East London

Best Free Views in London: Sky Garden

The Sky Garden is one of the most famous rooftops in London, and one where you’ll also find restaurants and many plants unlike Horizon 22.

The place is especially beautiful at sunset, but I would recommend coming as early as possible to avoid the crowds of people visiting.

Book before you go so you’re sure to enter without hassle, and enjoy the several floors of views and beautiful angles of the city.

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in Oxford Street

Best Free Views in London: St Saviours Dock

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Going from Bermondsey Beach to Tower Bridge is a pleasure when treading St Saviours Dock, and when the sun is shining on the maritime buildings, you almost feel like the city is taking you back in time.

Maritime neighborhoods always make me feel some type of way.

If you can, do pop by Limehouse, Wapping and Shadwell as well, to feel as close to nature as possible and find other angles and views of London.

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in South London

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Best Free Views in London: The Post Building Rooftop

The Post Building Rooftop, at the end of New Oxford Street, is one of the most recently opened free rooftops Central London offers, and a beautiful garden at that.

It’s a completely free place to visit before, for instance, going to see what the Outernet at the Now Building is all about, or getting a colorful bite in a pink coffee shop, like Soho’s Elan Cafe.

Read: The Best Hidden Gems in West London

Best Free Views in London: Liverpool Street Station

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A few of London’s free rooftops are located around the City of London, but when it comes to snapping the best pictures of the city, I feel like nothing comes close to the views of Liverpool Street’s skyscrapers.

Not only are there many hidden gems in Liverpool Street, but at sunset, the towering buildings make you feel even smaller in the huge city that is London.

Read: The Best Cafes to Work in West London

Best Free Views in London: Limehouse Basin

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Limehouse Basin, with its views of the Canary Wharf skyscrapers, is one of my favorite places to visit in London as it’s pretty empty except from locals.

You’ll find quite a few marinas in London, like Shadwell Basin, the Poplar Marina or St Katharine Docks, but there’s something about being able to see Canary Wharf that makes me love the Limehouse Basin even more.

Read: The Best Cafes to Work in South London

Best Free Views in London: Shadwell Basin

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Another really unusual place to visit in London – even better with someone else – is the Shadwell Basin, surrounded by brick houses that really bring a cozy feeling to any warm day.

A secret street food market takes place just behind the Shadwell Basin every Saturday, with anything from Italian food to Indian specialties.

While there are not that many things to do in Shadwell except from enjoying the nature feel, the view on the Shard behind the buildings is very pretty.

Read: The Best Cafes to Work in North London

The Best Free Things to Do in London: Window Shopping in Unique Shops

I’ve told you about some of the most unique shops in London a while back.

While some of them definitely are made to buy souvenirs and bring them back home, I thought I’d share something a bit different today.

When talking about free things to do in London, we usually think of museums, gardens and whatnot, but some shops – and Christmas markets! – give off that ‘come and do some window-shopping’ vibe.

Most Instagrammable and Unique Shops in London: The Vault, Crystal Palace

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The Vault Collective in Norwood, minutes from Crystal Palace Park, is the first really unique shop I thought I’d mention.

A mix between a home decor and plant shop and a coffee shop in which you can get some of London’s best vegan breakfast, The Vault Collective is definitely one of the coolest and most colorful places to visit in town.

Read: The Best Cafes to Work in East London

Most Instagrammable and Unique Shops in London: Timothy Oulton, Tottenham Court Road

The Timothy Oulton shop on Tottenham Court Road is a home decor and furniture shop with uppity, posh and edgy designs – no other shop in London sells an Apollo capsule, making it an even crazier place to visit.

Inside the super instagrammable shop, you’ll even find astronaut sculptures, along with towers made out of books and old typewriters…

Don’t miss out, especially if you’re looking for free things to do in Central London!

Read: The Most Beautiful Places in Paris for Pictures and Views

Most Instagrammable and Unique Shops in London: Liberty of London

Liberty of London is one of London’s best department store – my favorite things to check out there are new makeup and perfume collections.

However, do spend some time on the upper floors to discover Liberty fabrics, so very London, so beautiful, fabrics that make Liberty of London one of the poshest British shops in town.

Read: London’s Secret Bakeries: Bageriet Covent Garden Review

Most Instagrammable and Unique Shops in London: Selfridges, Oxford Street

Selfridges is another one of the most famous department stores in London, and one of my favorite shops on Oxford Street.

Some of the best things to buy at Selfridges, in my opinion, are the Penhaligons perfumes, Charlotte Tilbury lipsticks and Pat McGrath eyeshadow palettes.

However, if you just spend some time roaming around the store, you’ll see many different sculptures and art pieces, which make a visit at Selfridges a complete experience.

Most Instagrammable and Unique Shops in London: Harrods, Knightsbridge

The Harrods department store is another perfect place to go window shopping in London, and not only because of the many beautiful items they sell – nope.

In all the different departments of Harrods, you’ll find art pieces, but if you’re looking for something really unique to do, I’d recommend enjoying a moment at the Egyptian Hall, which definitely gives off museum vibes.

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Most Instagrammable and Unique Shops in London: Mercato Mayfair

Mercato Mayfair used to be one of London’s most secret food courts, but at this point, it’s, well, not that secret anymore.

Still one of my favorite places to visit in Mayfair, Mercato Mayfair is located inside a converted church and offers anything from coffee to delicious gelato at Badiani, and even has a really cute gardening shop inside.

Even if you’re only looking for free things to do in London, a visit at Mercato Mayfair to discover the gorgeous architecture is one I can only very warmly recommend.

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Most Instagrammable and Unique Shops in London: Bluebird, Covent Garden

Bluebird in Covent Garden is undeniably one of the most instagrammable shops in London, and one that you should visit if you love natural materials and plants.

Of course, we’re here to visit only free places, and this is the kind of shop that helps, as Bluebird is a luxury fashion shop, so you won’t really be tempted to buy anything.

Use it as inspiration for art, to write, or just to enjoy the beauty of the place – it’s indeed one of the best hidden gems in Covent Garden!

Read: Bread Ahead Wembley Review, London’s Tastiest Rustic Bakery

Update: This place is now closed.

Most Instagrammable and Unique Shops in London: Urban Outfitters, Oxford Street

Urban Outfitters is very much one of the best shops on Oxford Street, and one I love popping by to get fashion inspiration.

If you’re ever looking for unique things to buy in London, I’ve always felt that the home decor pieces and books at Urban Outfitters were well-curated collections.

Nearby, you have some of the best places to buy cheap clothes in London, Primark, of course, as well as really cool makeup stores like Superdrug and Boots.

Read: The Most Instagrammable Places in NYC

Most Instagrammable and Unique Shops in London: Brand Academy, Southbank

Brand Academy in Southwark is a kind of concept store selling really unique gifts, from candles to prints and even Jellycat plushies.

I love Jellycat plushies, always have, always will, and since they’re quite difficult to find except from card stores and Waterstones, Brand Academy is a place you can always count on to find them.

Coffee Academy, a tiny coffee shop with two tables right outside Brand Academy, is one of my favorite cafes in London Bridge when I want to relax, see people passing by and enjoy views of the Thames.

They also happen to sell Crosstown Doughnuts and prep some of the best hot chocolate in London, so you really have all the reasons to visit at some point.

Read: The Most Instagrammable Places in Edinburgh

The Best Free Things to Do in London: Exploring London’s Outdoor Art Scene and Sculptures

London is filled with many artistic hidden gems and secret sculptures, not unlike the Leicester Square sculpture trail.

These memorials, sculptures and statues are scattered all around town and have been the topic of many books about London, but let’s start with some of my favorites!

Secret Sculptures and Art in London: Broadgate Art Trail

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The Broadgate Art Trail, for starters, is probably one of the most secret free things to do in London, and one I actually discovered while looking for the Broadgate Venus (above and below).

Located in the Exchange Square, the Broadgate Venus is a really huge sculpture, impressive, and located a few minutes away from the Hare in the Hat and the commuters sculptures (both pictured below).

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Secret Sculptures and Art in London: Sculpture in the City Art Trail

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The Sculpture in the City is one I’ve known about for years, which offers Londoners and tourists many hidden gems all around Liverpool Street and Aldgate stations.

The painted human snails piece is one of my favorite, located in Aldgate Square, but you’ll find many other sculptures if you allow yourself to get lost near Liverpool Street, Aldgate, and even Fenchurch Street stations.

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Secret Sculptures and Art in London: Atlas on Atlas House, City of London

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Recently, while I was heading to the St Pancras Church Garden in the City of London, I came across the Atlas House, which I only really paid attention to because of the Atlas statue on top.

Located on Cheapside, the Atlas House is one of the best-preserved Italian buildings in London, and one that bears strong resemblance with the Italian Gardens at Kensington Gardens – a really cute hidden gem!

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Secret Sculptures and Art in London: Dr Salters’ Daydream

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Located in Rotherhithe, the Dr Salters’ Daydream sculpture commemorates the life and work of Dr Alfred Salter, a local politician who dedicated his life to improving the lives of the residents of Bermondsey and Rotherhithe.

The sculpture depicts Dr Salter looking across the river towards the city skyline, and completed with other sculptures on the square representing his family.

It’s a really magical and quiet place to visit in London while walking down the Thames River, and a great place to meditate on life.

Read: The Best Free and Unique Things to Do in Rome

Secret Sculptures and Art in London: Girl With a Dolphin, Tower Bridge

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Created by artist David Wynne, the Girl With a Dolphin statue at Tower Bridge has become one of the most important, yet unofficial landmarks of London over the years.

It’s elegant and playful, and with Tower Bridge in the background, proves an undisputed photo spot if you’re traveling to London for the first time.

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Secret Sculptures and Art in London: Kindertransport Statue, Liverpool Street Station

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The Kindertransport statue outside of Liverpool Street station was unveiled in 2006, and is one of the most moving monuments in London – it indeed commemorates the Kindertransport, a rescue effort in which the station played a significant part.

The Kindertransport helped save almost 10,000 Jewish kids from Nazi-occupied territories during the Holocaust, and the statue stands as a reminder of courage and compassion.

Designed by sculptor Frank Meisler, a Kindertransport survivor, this here is one of the most important memorials in London, and echoes the Für das Kind sculpture located inside the station.

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Secret Sculptures and Art in London: Für Das Kind, Liverpool Street Station

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The Für Das Kind sculpture inside Liverpool Street was created by Frank Meisler and unveiled in 2006 like the Kindertransport sculpture outside the station.

Like the Kindertransport sculpture, it serves as a memorial to the rescue mission that saved thousands of Jewish children from Nazi persecution during the Holocaust.

Liverpool Street station was indeed a departure point for many Kindertransport trains that carried children to safety in Britain, and a really powerful place to visit when you’re in East London.

Secret Sculptures and Art in London: Seven Ages of Man Sculpture

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One of the most secret places in London to visit is Baynard House, close to Blackfriars station – there, you’ll find the Richard Kindersley ‘Seven Ages of Man’ statue.

This is a statue inspired by Shakespeare, and one of the most moving I’ve ever seen in London.

Since we’re also close to St Paul’s station and places like Carter Lane, you could create your own unusual City of London walk.

By all means, do include this hidden gem, as the text circling the base, taken from the play As You Like It, has a way of making you see life differently.

Secret Sculptures and Art in London: David Speed Pink Faces Street Art

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Many Shoreditch street art pieces really are worth a second glance, what with graffiti, stickers and life-size stencil art covering the East London area.

The David Speed pink faces can be found in many different London neighborhoods, but you’ll find many of them in Shoreditch and Bethnal Green, in Malcolm Place, and around Redchurch Street and Chance Street.

It’s a pleasure to find them when you’re looking for colorful places to use as backgrounds for pictures, and really add something to the London art scene.

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Free Things to Do in London: 90 Spots To Visit On a Budget

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There you have them, all the best free things to do in London for couples, with kids, with your friends or solo!

While doing things with friends in London instantly makes life more enjoyable, I do love finding non touristy places to explore on my own.

Colorful places, beautiful streets and posh areas, or free museums – you’ll hopefully have found here all types of unique places to add to your bucket list!