17 Great Places to Visit in the UK for Free
Studying abroad in the UK is a thrilling adventure, filled with opportunities to explore new places and experience a rich culture. But as a student, you might be looking for ways to enjoy the best of what the UK has to offer without spending too much.
Luckily, London is packed with free attractions that are perfect for students on a budget. Here’s a guide to some of the most famous to lesser-known free places to visit in the UK, especially if you’re studying in London.
- Royal Tradition: Changing the Guard
Witness this iconic British ceremony at Buckingham Palace. Arrive early for the best views and soak in the historic atmosphere.
- Wizardry Awaits: Platform 9¾
Snap a photo at the magical Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station. A must-visit for Harry Potter fans, with no cost to enjoy the magic and get an insta-worthy post.
- Street Vibes: Covent Garden
Explore the lively Covent Garden with its street performers, unique shops, and historic market—a great spot to watch the UK life and soak in the atmosphere.
- Foodie’s Paradise: Borough Market
Wander through one of London’s oldest food markets. Enjoy the sights, smells, and free samples along the way.
- Art for All: Tate Modern
Visit Tate Modern to explore contemporary art in an iconic setting. Free entry to the main collections makes it a student favorite.
- Cultural Hub: Southbank Centre
Discover free exhibitions and performances at the Southbank Centre. Enjoy the vibrant arts scene right by the River Thames.
- Sky-High Views: Sky Garden
Take in panoramic views of London from the Sky Garden. Book in advance to enjoy this stunning, free experience.
- Sacred Spaces: Westminster Cathedral
Step into Westminster Cathedral for a peaceful retreat. Admire the beautiful mosaics in this lesser-known but stunning church.
- Street Art Hunt: Banksy’s Graffiti
Explore London’s streets in search of Banksy’s famous graffiti. A free and fun way to experience the city’s edgy art scene.
- Art in the Park: Serpentine Galleries
Visit the Serpentine Galleries in Hyde Park for contemporary art. Afterward, relax in one of London’s most famous green spaces.
- New Heights: Horizon 22
Enjoy incredible views from Horizon 22, London’s newest observation deck. Free tickets offer a perfect study break with a view.
- Hidden Treasure: The Wallace Collection
Explore the Wallace Collection’s art and antiques in a historic townhouse. A quiet gem for a cultured afternoon.
- Digital Wonderland: Outernet
Experience the Outernet’s immersive digital art for free. This new multimedia space at Tottenham Court Road is a modern cultural hotspot.
- Zen Escape: Kyoto Japanese Garden
Find peace in the Kyoto Japanese Garden at Holland Park. It’s a serene spot to relax, featuring koi ponds and traditional landscaping.
- Canal Charm: Little Venice
Stroll through Little Venice, a picturesque area of canals and houseboats. Perfect for a peaceful walk and a break from the city’s hustle.
- Sunset Views: Primrose Hill
Head to Primrose Hill for stunning views of London’s skyline. A popular spot for students, especially at sunset.
- Cultural Glimpse: Royal Opera House
Even if you can’t attend a performance, the Royal Opera House offers free exhibitions and a peek into London’s cultural heritage.
Ready to Explore the UK While Studying Abroad?
Imagine experiencing these iconic spots while earning a degree that opens doors worldwide. At HR International, we’re here to help make that dream a reality. We specialize in guiding students like you through every step of studying abroad, from choosing the right university to navigating visa applications. Let us take care of the details so you can focus on what really matters—exploring your new home in the UK.
