10 No-Cost Activities to Enjoy in the Heart of London – Travel World Wide

10 No-Cost Activities to Enjoy in the Heart of London

10 No-Cost Activities to Enjoy in the Heart of London

The City of London, often referred to as The Square Mile, is the financial and historic core of the capital, originally established by the Romans as Londinium. This compact business district blends medieval alleyways with modern architecture, creating a unique atmosphere. The area exudes affluence and formality, with many professionals dressed in suits and ties. Despite its upscale vibe, there are plenty of free activities to enjoy, even if you’re not on a city salary.

The Museum of London is a fantastic free museum that chronicles the city’s history from prehistoric times to the present day. It covers significant events such as the Roman and Medieval periods, the Great Fire of London in 1666, and the Blitz during World War II. The museum’s galleries provide a comprehensive look at how London has evolved over the centuries.

The City of London was built on the old Roman city of Londinium, and remnants of Roman London can still be seen today. The Romans constructed a 4 km wall around their city, parts of which are still visible. Notable sections of the wall can be found opposite the Tower of London, on Noble Street, and near the Museum of London. The Guildhall Art Gallery also houses the remains of a Roman Amphitheatre in its basement.

The Bank of England Museum, located in the heart of the City of London, offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of England’s central bank. Established in 1694, the museum showcases the bank’s history, including how banknotes have been printed to prevent forgery. Visitors can even try to lift a real gold bar.

The Guildhall Art Gallery features the City of London Corporation’s art collection and the remains of London’s Roman Amphitheatre. The gallery’s upper floor focuses on Victorian and Pre-Raphaelite masterpieces, while the basement houses exhibitions like the Sublime Symmetry, showcasing the ceramics of William de Morgan.

The Sky Garden, located at 20 Fenchurch Street, is London’s highest public garden. It offers free access to three terraces filled with trees and tropical flowers, all enclosed in a glass dome. Visitors can enjoy 360-degree views of the city, but it’s essential to book a ticket in advance due to high demand.

The Barbican is an arts center and residential complex known for its Brutalist architecture. It hosts world-class music, theatre, dance, and art exhibitions. The Barbican conservatory, a hidden tropical oasis, is home to 2000 species of tropical plants and is open on select Sundays.

For a historical stay, consider The Montcalm at Brewery London City Hotel, located on the former site of a Whitbread brewery. This 5-star hotel is close to major City of London sites and offers contemporary rooms with a nod to its eighteenth-century heritage.

The City of London also boasts numerous green spaces, often found in churchyards. St Dunstan in the East and Postman’s Park are two popular city gardens. St Dunstan in the East, dating back to the 12th century, was transformed into a public park after being damaged in the Great Fire of London and the Blitz. Postman’s Park, named for its popularity with nearby office workers, features grassy lawns, colorful borders, and a memorial to everyday acts of heroism.

Leadenhall Market, dating back to the 14th century, offers a glimpse of Victorian London with its wrought iron and glass roof. It’s now home to boutique retailers and restaurants, and it was featured in the film Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

The London Mithraeum, located within Bloomberg’s new European Headquarters, showcases the reconstructed remains of the Temple of Mithras, a Roman cult site. The site also displays Roman artifacts uncovered during the building’s construction.

The City of London hosts regular free classical concerts in its medieval churches, such as St Olave Hart Street and St Bride’s. St Paul’s Cathedral offers free Sunday afternoon organ recitals, providing a chance to see this architectural masterpiece.

For a panoramic view of London, visit the Monument to the Fire of London, designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Climb its 311 steps for a view of the city and learn about the Great Fire of London, which shaped the city’s development.

There are plenty of free activities to enjoy in the City of London, but if your budget allows, consider visiting paid attractions like the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and St Paul’s Cathedral for a more comprehensive London experience.