Being a student often means being on a shoestring budget when it comes to entertainment. However, if you are lucky enough to be living and studying in London, the cosmopolitan city is well-known for the many free things students, locals and travellers can enjoy regularly. Although known as one of the most expensive cities in the world, London has surprisingly many free activities which means you don’t have to skimp on all the fun just because you’re on a tight student budget. As well as the the things in London that are always free, there are always special events each week that are totally free to attend as well. With so much going on in London, there are always free things to do that won’t cost you a penny. We’ve rounded up some of the top free activities to do in London which won’t break the bank. Free

1. Museums & Galleries

Are the museums for free in London? For the most part, yes! The majority of London’s biggest museums and galleries don’t charge an entrance fee. Many also host special temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year which are ticketed, but this won’t stop you from visiting their permanent exhibitions for free.

A perfect weekend activity for those looking to learn more about art, history and culture. Some of the top museums worth visiting include; British Museum, Natural History Museum, Science Museum, V&A Museum, and Tate Modern. 

2. Free Historical Walking Tours

London is steeped in history and folklore and for all the history buffs out there, step back in time with free walking tours of the city. Walk in the footsteps of Kings’ execution and Queens’ reclusions to dreaded serial killers and restless ghosts. And for those who are brave, why not sign up for the ‘Jack The Ripper’ – tour!

3. Weekend Markets

London is brimming with weekend markets selling food, flowers and fashion. One of the most famous markets is perhaps the Portobello Road Market. Every Saturday this half-mile-long stretch of road is transformed into a street of hidden treasures. There’s something for everyone, from bargains and vintage pearls to pricey antiques. Prepare to see some weird, wacky and colourful sights. The Brick Lane Food Market is another famous market and is best enjoyed on Sundays. You will be impressed by the many tasty and aromatic dishes and bubbling vats and for less than a tenner you can get a 10/10 meal!

4. Enjoy the best view in the city from The Sky Garden

Get the best view of London – for free! The Sky Garden is perched at the top of the Walkie Talkie building, and  boasts some of the best views in the city. And guess what? The Sky Garden is both brilliant and free. Take the lift up to the 37th floor and enjoy the city view over a breakfast, cocktails or a meal. Or simply soak up the garden and the free live music. For those wanting to stretch their bodies, there are yoga classes available to attend. Access to the Sky Garden is free of charge on weekdays 10am-6pm and weekends 11am-9pm, see  opening hours here.

5. Check Out The Street Art in East London

Shoreditch, Bethnal Green, Hoxton, Hackney and every other East London hood is an amazing destination to check out some of the city’s most vibrant street art. Walk around impressive graffiti, murals, stickers, stencilling and more. Ensure you keep your eyes peeled and you’ll find the famous works of Banksy among the colourful and bold back streets of Brick Lane.

6. Enjoy The Green Hyde Park

London’s iconic Hyde Park, which covers 350 acres (142 hectares),  is the perfect weekend destination. Not only does the large green park provide a breath of fresh air in the heart of the city, it’s perfect for a romantic stroll, a picnic, a jog,  or a pedalo on the Serpentine. Catch up with friends for a game of frisbee or boulle. Throughout the seasons the park hosts special events and festivals. 

7. Walk the Waterways in Little Venice

Escape the city’s hustle and bustle and head up to London’s Little Venice district in Maida Vale.  It is one of the city’s best kept secrets, that will transport you from the busy concrete jungle to a tranquil and pretty place by the water. Enjoy a walk along the river and soak up the picturesque atmosphere including admiring the Regency mansions with their elegant stucco looking over colorful houseboats. You can also ride on a gondola before stopping for some refreshments at one of the many outdoor terraces of the waterfront eateries. Another way to travel through Little Venice is by taking a waterbus, which makes numerous stops in the capital, including Camden Town, Regents Park and London Zoo.

Looking for Student Accommodation in London

When you’ve decided to study in the UK and you’ve been accepted to a university, it’s essential for you to look for student accommodation that meets your criteria before moving in. There are plenty of London student accommodation options. Although the traditional university halls and student residence London still remain the favourite for many first-timers, there has been a significant rise in privately renting your student accommodation in the UK.

We’ve rounded up a few accommodation options you can pick from as a student in the UK. University Hotels are usually most popular among undergraduate students in their first year. It can be a comfortable stay for students who prefer living inside the university campus and it also makes it convenient to go to class and also to make new friends from all around the world. Some university hotels provide meals including full board and some don’t. There are also different student room options including single rooms and shared rooms where a private room will cost more.

At studentroomrentals.com we can help with student accommodation in the UK. We have a large selection of student rooms, shared apartments, and private studios. Browse through our accommodation options and learn more about how easy, hassle-free and safe it is to book with us.

Or contact our friendly customer support team and let them help you to start the process of finding your perfect student accommodation today.