Free Things To Do In London This Weekend

• Where: 20-24 Shaftesbury Avenue, W1D 7EU

Among the many unusual places to visit in London for free is Albert's Schloss, a Bavarian beer hall named after Queen Victoria's husband and dedicated to his heritage and love of entertainment. It prides itself on hosting entertainment seven nights a week, featuring everything from cabaret to Baby Grand Slams.

Enjoy live music and indulge in a hearty Cook Haus roast as part of its Sunday Service, or Saturday nights, Albert's Schloss transforms into a dazzling venue of splendour and decadence. The haus band reimagines your favourite tunes, while top DJs and performers bring the energy to a spectacular show that's sure to have you dancing on the benches.

Kick off your weekend at St Christopher's Inn in London Bridge, where live music meets vinyl vibes every Friday and Saturday night. Entry is completely free, giving you access to two floors of entertainment: upbeat live bands upstairs and a resident DJ spinning funk and disco classics on authentic vinyl downstairs.

Grab your friends, sip on craft drinks, and dance through the night from 10pm until 2am in one of London's most iconic pubs.

• Where: 10 Henrietta Street, WC2 E8PS

If you're looking for a lively night out that won't break the bank, then head to Mrs Riot in Covent Garden. This buzzing destination is known for their raucous drag entertainment and live music, and they host several different free events too.

Their Funky Fresh Fridays are the perfect way to kick off your weekend, promising free entry and DJs spinning non-stop 70s, 80s and 90s tunes. Plus, you can nab £8 signature cocktails before 8pm.

• Where: 28 Curtain Road, EC2A 3NZ

Fancy a night out that blends great music, drinks, and Shoreditch charm? The Horse & Groom is your go-to spot. Since 2007, this East London gem has been serving up everything from classic ales to craft beers, alongside some of the best burgers in town - Stokey Bears, anyone? By day, it's the perfect East End tavern for a relaxed pint, but by night, it transforms into a hub for some of the best names in dance music. From Dimitri From Paris to Jamie Jones, it's been a top destination for music lovers for years.

Their vinyl Fridays are a night where DJs spin only vinyl selections, bringing a unique vibe to the dance floor. Oh, and did we mention you can enjoy 2-for-1 cocktails while you dance? Plus, with free tickets, there's no excuse not to join the fun. 

• Where: 108 Essex Road, N1 8LX

Get ready for a night of entertainment and drinks at Homeboy, where live music meets modern Irish hospitality every Thursday and Sunday. London's best young performers take the stage, bringing fresh talent and energy to this cosy spot in Islington. Whether you're sipping on a classic pint of Guinness (one of the best in London) or one of their expertly crafted cocktails, you'll feel right at home.

Homeboy celebrates Irish culture with a drinks menu that's a mix of tradition and modern flair. Think Irish whiskey cocktails that pay tribute to the spirit's legacy, along with contemporary creations that'll leave you wanting more. And don't forget their playful, indulgent food that pairs perfectly with the tunes.

• Where: 46-48 Kingsland Road, E2 8DA

One of the best free things to do in London this weekend is this Sunday session with a twist. Head down to Rolling Stock in Hoxton for Jazz Train, where every week, under the arches, the best jazz and blues musicians take the stage, creating a lively and creative atmosphere you won't want to miss. Whether you're a jazz lover or just in need of some weekend vibes, this event serves up music, art, and great drinks in one go.

Feel inspired? Grab some art supplies (scattered around the tables) and channel your inner artist by sketching the band, adding your masterpiece to the ever-growing collection at Jazz Train. And don't worry about the chilly weather - Rolling Stock's garden is wrapped up for the winter, keeping you warm while you catch some fresh air between sets.

• Where: Snoozebox Olympic Park, Pudding Mill Lane, E15 2NQ

The ABBA DJ Afterparty is definitely on our list of free things to do in London this weekend for adults. Taking place at Snoozebox Olympic Park, this is the place to be for all ABBA fans, with delicious eats and drinks flowing as you boogie the night away in sheer ABBA glory.

Located right next to the custom-built ABBA Arena, it's only a hop, skip, and a boogie away from the ultimate dance floor action. The party kicks off at 4pm and goes on 'til late, so come join the fun - entry is free, but be sure to book to secure your spot.

• Highlights: Battersea Park, Primrose Hill, and London Fields

Parks are the perfect escape from the urban sprawl, offering a wide variety of spaces for everything from leisurely strolls to picnics with friends. Hampstead Heath, with its wild woodlands and stunning views from Parliament Hill, is an iconic choice for a day out. Meanwhile, Clapham Common, one of the city's oldest green spaces, invites visitors to enjoy picnics on its lush lawns or break a sweat with a game of tennis.

For a more regal experience, Kensington Gardens offers a peaceful retreat with its beautiful flower trails and the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground, while London Fields, beloved by East Londoners, provides the ideal spot for a laid-back picnic by the lido. 

• Highlights: Horizon 22, God's Own Junkyard, and Outernet

London may be famous for its iconic landmarks, mouthwatering food scene, and world-class shows, but there's a side to this city that doesn't require spending a penny. From lush gardens to historical wonders, this vibrant metropolis offers an impressive array of free attractions that are perfect for a weekend adventure.

Take a stroll through Sky Garden, where you'll be treated to panoramic views of the city skyline, or head to Hackney City Farm to visit some pigs and goats. Both spots offer a truly unique experience, all without touching your wallet.

• Highlights: National Portrait Gallery, Saatchi Gallery and White Cube

On the hunt for free things to do this weekend in London? The capital is a treasure trove of artistic expression, with over 2,000 galleries spread across the city - each offering a glimpse into the world of creativity. Start with the iconic Tate Modern, housed in a former power station along the South Bank, and don't miss the Turbine Hall, often home to larger-than-life installations.

For a deeper dive into British art history, head to Tate Britain in Pimlico, where 500 years of British masterpieces, including works by JMW Turner, are displayed in a stunning building with marble staircases and vaulted ceilings. If you're more into impressionism, the Courtauld Gallery, nestled in Somerset House, is a must-visit.

• Highlights: Wallace Collection, Tate Modern, Natural History Museum, and National Maritime Museum

London is a cultural goldmine with some of the world's best museums, many of which are completely free to enter. From the ancient treasures of the British Museum and the awe-inspiring dinosaur displays at the Natural History Museum to the cutting-edge contemporary art at Tate Modern and the stunning masterpieces housed in the National Gallery, there's something for every interest. Families, history buffs, art lovers, and science enthusiasts alike can explore these incredible collections without spending a penny.

Beyond the big names, hidden gems like the quirky Horniman Museum, the maritime-focused National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, and the fascinating Sir John Soane's Museum offer unique experiences. Whether you're keen to stroll through London's past at the Museum of London, admire opulent interiors at the Wallace Collection, or dive into aviation history at the Royal Air Force Museum, the city's free museums make it easy to soak up culture, history, and art on a budget.