Kensington Palace on a Budget: 10 Free London Gems Nearby

Published: April 2, 2026

When you picture Kensington Palace, visions of royal gardens and grand halls might fill your mind—but savvy London explorers know there’s a treasure trove of wallet-friendly adventures close by, too. The neighborhoods around Kensington Palace blend regal history, leafy green escapes, and quirky cultural stops that won’t cost you a single pound. Whether you’re a first-timer keen to maximize your London adventure, or a returning fan looking to find the best local haunts, we’ll guide you to ten top free experiences nearby. Expect hidden gardens, galleries, art, museum marvels, and more—each one helping you craft the perfect zero-cost London day.

Our favorite free things to do near Kensington Palace include:

Strolling through Kensington Gardens

Exploring Hyde Park

Visiting the Serpentine Galleries

Admiring historic statues and memorials

Wandering the Diana Memorial Playground

Appreciating street art in Notting Hill

Getting inspired at The Design Museum

Window shopping along Kensington High Street

Exploring Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden

Peeking into St Mary Abbots Church

Strolling through Kensington Gardens

Let’s start with one of London’s true gems—you absolutely can’t miss Kensington Gardens. Sprawling directly from the palace gates, this glorious green space feels simultaneously stately and welcoming, dotted with immaculate lawns, winding paths, ornamental flower beds, and ancient trees. The ambiance here is all about balance: you’ll spot both joggers in trainers and families in their Sunday best. Grab a bench beside the Italian Gardens’ elegant fountains and soak up the tranquil atmosphere, or enjoy people-watching around the Round Pond, where fancy waterfowl take center stage.

Playful squirrels scamper beneath your feet. Intricate statues, tucked-away alcoves, and unexpected art pop up at every turn. Depending on the season, you’ll spot bursts of daffodils, wild roses, or towering golden leaves. You can explore with nothing more than a sense of curiosity—just remember to bring your camera for those dreamy palace-and-pond views.

Exploring Hyde Park

A hop, skip, and a royal jump from Kensington Palace, Hyde Park is London’s most beloved outdoor playground. It’s vast enough to feel worlds away from city bustle, but always buzzing with energy. Wander along the tree-lined Serpentine Lake, spy on rollerbladers who can somehow dance and spin at the same time, or pause at the lively Speaker’s Corner—London’s traditional hub for passionate (and occasionally eccentric) public debate.

The park often surprises with pop-up art installations, free concerts, or yoga sessions on the grass. There’s plenty of space for a picnic or a chilled-out nap under the horse chestnut trees. Highlights like the Rose Garden and flower-filled borders near the Albert Memorial add an extra splash of color to any stroll. Every Londoner has a Hyde Park story—come for the stroll, stay for the people-watching, and make your own.

Visiting the Serpentine Galleries

Arts enthusiasts will want to pop into the Serpentine North and South galleries, stylish contemporary art spaces nestled within lush Hyde Park. Entry to both is completely free, and there’s always something new (and usually a bit thought-provoking) on display, from world-renowned artists to trendsetting young creators.

What makes the Serpentine Galleries extra appealing is the setting—nature, art, and architecture in one. Wander from an exhibition celebrating boundary-pushing British photography to a garden-inspired installation by international visionaries, all before heading into the park for a casual lakeside stroll. Don’t miss the bold annual Serpentine Pavilion each summer, where top architects design a playful new structure beside the main gallery.

Admiring Historic Statues and Memorials

History isn’t locked up inside museums in this part of town. The gardens and parks around Kensington Palace double as an open-air gallery of the capital’s past. Stand before the grand Albert Memorial (it’s got to be one of London’s most eye-catching monuments) or find Queen Victoria’s statue, looking over her birthplace. Spot the whimsical statue of Peter Pan hidden among the trees, which delights kids and grown-ups alike with its playful detail.

Every statue reveals a snippet of London’s story. Find a free moment to wander and soak in both the artistry and the history behind each piece—you may leave with a whole new appreciation for royal tales, Victorian drama, and literary legends.

Wandering the Diana Memorial Playground

If you’re traveling with kids (or just have a spark of youthful curiosity), don’t skip the Diana Memorial Playground. This play wonderland was built as a tribute to Princess Diana’s love of childhood joy. The highlight: a life-sized wooden pirate ship surrounded by sand you can dig your toes into. Plenty of secret hideaways, a sensory trail, and whimsical sculptures encourage creative play at every turn.

The design celebrates wild, imaginative fun—think lush landscaping, teepees, and stepping stones instead of plastic slides. There are benches for grown-ups (with lovely shady views), water features for splashy hands, and heaps of giggling children. Entry is free, but bring your inner kid along to fully appreciate it.

Appreciating Street Art in Notting Hill

For a visual treat beyond museum walls, wander northwards to neighboring Notting Hill. Its historic pastel townhouses and bustling Portobello Road offer endless charm, but eagle-eyed explorers will find something extra: technicolor street art, bold murals, and playful graffiti peeking out from alleyways and shopfronts. From elaborate portraits to tiny stencilled cats, Notting Hill’s art scene is constantly evolving, meaning no two strolls are ever quite the same.

We love grabbing a takeaway coffee and wandering with no clear route—some of the best works pop up when you least expect them. Don’t forget your camera; these pop-art flourishes give even the most classic corners a modern edge.

Getting Inspired at The Design Museum

The Design Museum is a Tottenham Court Road must-visit for creative minds. It makes design accessible to everyone, with its impactful, changing exhibitions and a regularly-updated permanent display—Designer Maker User—that’s completely free to enjoy.

You’ll find everything from famous chairs to early iPhones, all woven into a story about how design shapes our lives. The space itself is a beauty, combining sleek modernism and Insta-worthy lines with a friendly, conversational atmosphere. Free walking tours and creative workshops sometimes appear on their calendar—check ahead or pop in on a whim.

Window Shopping along Kensington High Street

Want to sample London style with none of the spending guilt? Kensington High Street lets you live out your shop-in-the-city dreams—no purchase necessary. The area’s mix of glamorous retailers, independent boutiques, and gleaming department stores invites plenty of window shopping, people-watching, and trend-spotting.

Keep your eyes peeled for creatively styled window displays and designer goods galore. Duck into arcades simply to admire the architecture or nab a free sample in the beauty halls. The buzz is palpable; it’s where locals pick up their groceries, students grab coffee, and the odd celebrity browses for vintage denim.

Exploring Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden

Few places in central London feel as serenely magical as Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden. Tucked away in lush Holland Park, this tranquil Japanese-style oasis is free to enter and a must-see if you fancy a change of pace. Wander winding paths past tiered rock waterfalls, winding streams, and colorful koi carp swimming beneath cherry blossoms.

Peacocks strut through the greenery, adding a regal flourish to the peaceful atmosphere. The garden’s carefully landscaped design invites quiet reflection and a deep inhale of calm. It’s the perfect antidote to city rushing, and absolutely worth seeking out for a moment of zen in your London day.

Peeking into St Mary Abbots Church

For a final low-key gem, head to St Mary Abbots Church, just steps from Kensington’s shops. The soaring spire of this Victorian Gothic landmark is a local beacon, but inside hides a world of art, history, and peaceful sanctuary. Entry is always free, and visitors are welcome to admire the richly decorated stained glass, intricate woodwork, and hushed, serene atmosphere.

You might catch the gentle sounds of choir practice drifting through the nave, discover a centuries-old memorial, or see neighbors lighting candles in quiet reflection. Whether you step inside for architecture, music, or a moment of calm, St Mary Abbots feels timeless—a spiritual oasis in the heart of bustling Kensington.

London’s Kensington neighborhood delivers loads of free fun, great for history buffs, families, and casual explorers alike. Lace up your trainers, bring along your curiosity, and discover the royal side of the city—without spending a thing.

Enjoyed this? Check out London’s best walks, and see the quirkier side of the city.

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Top things to do in Soho London

Some may still remember Soho’s seedy past, but tucked in between Mayfair and Covent Garden this part of west London has once again found its stride as a fashionable and upmarket place to be. Whilst it may not have the historic attractions of other neighborhoods, no one can say there aren’t things to do in Soho London! It’s an area that’s actually something of a rare find – a part of London where locals and visitors rub shoulder to shoulder without distinction. Packed full of bars and nightspots, it also has shopping on Regent’s Street and the theaters of the West End to help maintain its stance as the capital’s entertainment hub. But amongst the rainbow flags and shopfronts of everyone-is-welcome Soho, you’ll also discover an array of galleries and restaurants. What are the best things to do? Keep reading to find out all you’ll ever need to know with this guide to London’s Soho. Must-visit shops The western bounds of Soho are delineated by Regent’s Street and its northern bounds by Oxford Street – two of London’s most famous and most important shopping thoroughfares. Running for almost two kilometers, Oxford Street is dominated by flagship stores for the country’s big names and department stores including Selfridges’ five floors of delights. Regent’s Street has a slightly more genteel air thanks to its mix of high-end fashion boutiques and Hamleys – the world’s oldest and biggest dedicated toy shop, with a range that spans 50,000 items. For contrast, drift into Carnaby Street, which was the center of fashion during the swinging sixties and continues to go its own way with its selection of independently-owned stores. Between the two, on Great Marlborough Street, is the mock Tudor edifice of Liberty London. A department store with a difference, Liberty highlights bold handcrafted designs from smaller workshops and artists. Known for its floral prints, it has previously championed everyone from arts and crafts designer William Morris to the creator of the punk look Vivienne Westwood. Soho theaters and shows Following Regent’s Street round to its natural end at the Statue of Eros on Piccadilly Circus will bring you to Shaftesbury Avenue. Otherwise known as the West End, it’s where many of London’s major theatres are located, including the London Palladium, Gielgud and Lyric. Seen as the pinnacle of performances alongside New York’s Broadway, its theaters are a favorite with movie stars. Dame Helen Mirren, Sir Ian McKellen and Benedict ‘Sherlock’ Cumberbatch have all played to packed out audiences in recent years. Shows range from productions of Chekov and reinventions of Shakespeare to the musicals of Andrew Lloyd Webber, the composer behind The Phantom of the Opera and Cats. If sitting down in one place for two hours leaves you cold, you don’t need to look further than the Crystal Maze Live Experience, recreating the television game show with its four zones and four different challenge types teams must take on. Soho’s top nightspots It’s nightspots like G-A-Y and Ronnie Scott’s that take much of the attention, but Soho London nightlife also includes traditional British pubs and semi-secret cocktail bars, ensuring there really is something for everyone – including teetotalers thanks to some choice late night coffee bars. G-A-Y is just one of a clutch of LGBTQ+ venues dotted around Old Compton Street, creating a hub for queer individuals and their allies, alongside the original branch of Patisserie Valerie – a demonstration of just how diverse Soho can be. When it comes to live music, one of the best places to head is Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, which has played host to some of the legends of jazz and blues including Ella Fitzgerald, Jimi Hendrix and Jamie Cullum. Spice of Life and Ain’t Nothing But Blues have similar vibes. Galleries in Soho Although just a stone’s throw from the National Gallery on Trafalgar Square and Royal Academy of Arts on Piccadilly, you don’t even have to leave the area for artistic things to do in Soho London. The first private art space created for nothing but life through a lens, The Photographers’ Gallery has a pedigree which dates back to 1971. During that time it has brought new international artists to British audiences whilst also supporting homegrown photography talent, bringing the very best imagery of the moment to the streets of Soho. The main space of Frith Street Gallery on Golden Square has developed such a reputation for its exhibitions of painting, sculpture and installation art that the artists it represents are entering the permanent collections of museums globally. But if it’s moving images that capture your attention, the Curzon Soho Cinema provides an escapist’s delight, with some of the largest screens in London to watch the latest Oscar contenders. Places to eat in Soho Dine at each of our favorite places to eat in Soho and you’re either going to need a longer vacation or a larger stomach. Or possibly both. Trustworthy places to spend your hard-won cash include the flavors of Bombay of Dishoom’s Carnaby outlet and modern British cuisine of Bill’s Soho. Yotam Ottolenghi’s NOPI is one of a host of restaurants where it’s easy to impress and be impressed, with a menu comprising Middle Eastern and Asian-inspired dishes. Korean, Italian and pan-European meals all vie for attention just a few steps away. However, it’s Quo Vardis that takes the crown for staying power in a part of the capital where restaurants can seem as if they come and go with the seasons. First opening its doors in 1926, before that it was the home of Karl Marx, who now resides in Highgate Cemetery. The best things to do in Soho London Filled with entertaining ways to spend a morning, afternoon or evening, there are lots of worthwhile things to do in Soho London. Helpfully located not all that far from other attractions including the Household Cavalry Museum and Westminster Pier – for Thames sightseeing cruises – there’s really very little reason not to pay the area a visit as part of your travels with Go City!

Ian Packham

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Unmissable London Fun for Families with Teens

When it comes to family trips, traveling with a teenager (or two… or three) can be a high-stakes balancing act. You want days packed with memories and wow moments they’ll still be talking about next year—not just a perfectly grumpy gallery of “meh” faces on your camera roll. The good news? London delivers the goods. Whether your crew’s craving daring heights, Insta-worthy eats, legendary football stadiums, or art that goes lightyears beyond the ordinary, this city has you covered. Prepare for a whirlwind of adventure, a dash of culture, and so many chances for those genuine “this is awesome!” moments—no family bribes required. Ready to plan a trip that’ll wow even the toughest teen critic? Here’s our list of the coolest things to do in London with teens. Our top picks for things to do with teens in London: Up at the O2 London Eye Moco Museum Wembley Stadium Tour Crazy Golf at Swingers West End Camden Market City Cruises: Thames River Pass Wicked The Musical London Bicycle Tour by The London Bicycle Tour Company Chocolate Cocktail Club Up at the O2: Climb to New Heights If your crew has a taste for thrill (or a knack for eye-popping selfies), you can’t beat Up at the O2. Here’s your chance to scale the roof of one of London’s most distinctive landmarks—safely harnessed in and with friendly guides, of course. You suit up in climbing gear, clip onto the walkway, and then it’s game on: an unforgettable ascent up the domed roof with the lights of London all around you. The vibe? Pure adventure with a backdrop of city skyline, Olympic Park, winding Thames, and Canary Wharf’s modern towers. Whether you’re racing your teens to the summit or taking a chill pace, the 360-degree views at the top are absolutely worth the climb—especially at sunset, when the city glows below. Teens will love the sense of challenge (and the bragging rights that come with it). Even the most social media-shy can’t resist snapping skyline selfies up here. And if someone’s a little nervous, the crew is there to keep things encouraging and safe—no pressure, just loads of fun. It’s active, upbeat, and a million miles from your average tourist experience. Moco Museum: Urban Art with an Edge Let’s be real: not every art museum wins over a teenage crowd. The Moco Museum isn’t just an exception—it’s the gold standard for capturing cool. This powerhouse of contemporary and street art is housed in a grand townhouse in Mayfair, making the edgy art feel even more out of place (in a great way). Here, you’ll spot original pieces by Banksy, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Keith Haring—names that light up pop culture feeds as much as art history textbooks. Funky installations, neon signs, and immersive rooms mean there’s something surprising around every corner. Teens can get up close with art that feels dynamic, subversive, and interactive—not the usual ‘do-not-touch’ gallery vibe. What makes it especially awesome? The museum celebrates creativity and social commentary, so there are always new conversations to have as you wander. Whether your teen is into urban culture, design, or just likes snapping quirky photos, Moco Museum hits the mark. After you’ve checked out the art, Hyde Park isn’t far away for a stroll or impromptu skate session. Wembley Stadium Tour: Football Royalty If your teenagers are obsessed with football, Wembley Stadium isn’t just a venue—it’s Holy Ground. This is where legends play, from England’s national team to top musicians (Beyoncé, BTS, Ed Sheeran, and more). The behind-the-scenes tour is packed with surprises. Start by walking out the Players Tunnel, just like you’ve seen on TV, imagining the roar of the crowd. You’ll peer into the players’ locker rooms, visit the Royal Box (selfies with a replica FA Cup, anyone?), sit in commentary booths, and get a peek at match-day routines. What makes the tour fun for non-sports fans? The stories and trivia: crazy headlines, childhood dreams come true, records shattered, and celebrations that rocked the nation. Even if you’re only mildly footy-mad, the energy of the stadium gets to you. Guides are nothing if not passionate, and there are plenty of interactive displays and photo ops along the way. For a bonus, grab lunch or snacks at Boxpark Wembley—super close by and loaded with global street food vendors. Crazy Golf at Swingers West End: Next-Level Mini Golf Ready for a little friendly competition? Crazy Golf at Swingers West End takes mini golf to new places—think neon-lit courses, quirky obstacles, and a party atmosphere. It’s mini golf, but with wild London themes, fun music, super creative cocktails for the adults, and gourmet street food from pop-up stalls. What do teens love most? The playful but competitive mood. You can challenge your teenager to wild trick shots, ricochet through London-inspired challenges (phone box obstacles, anyone?), and land some ridiculous hole-in-ones. It’s energetic, silly, and low-pressure—everyone’s cheering each other on… and maybe trash-talking just a bit for laughs. Order pizza or tacos in between rounds and it feels like an urban festival—especially at night when the lights are glowing, the playlist hits just right, and London’s creative crowd drops in. Reserve ahead for weekends, because it’s always buzzing with energy and laughter. Camden Market: Shop, Eat, and Soak Up Edgy London If you want to show teens the side of London that feels truly ‘them’, Camden Market is the ultimate destination. Part outdoor market, part street food heaven, part alt-culture playground, Camden is bursting with creative energy. Here you’ll find an endless mix of pop-up stalls selling vintage hoodies, comic books, retro jewelry, and hand-painted sneakers. The crowd is as colorful as the murals—punks, goths, students, tourists, and everyone in-between. The food choices are legendary. Asian fusion, Venezuelan arepas, curly fries, vegan burgers, build-your-own bubble tea—you name it, Camden’s got a vendor making it fresh. Grab lunch, wander the canal, check out the record shops, and dive into curious little boutiques crammed with pop culture finds. Don’t miss Cyberdog, glowing with its rave wear and robots, and if you want a music fix, the old stables now house gig venues pumping out live tunes most evenings. For families with teens, Camden is freedom—safe to roam, fun to discover, barely a tourist trap in sight, and always a conversation starter. If you want another nearby adventure, the London Zoo in Regent’s Park is a 15-minute stroll (and just as lively). Wicked The Musical: An Age-Appropriate Night Out Thinking “theater” may sound like a stretch for teens? Wait until they see Wicked. This West End hit is one of the world’s best-loved musicals because it’s anything but predictable: there are flying witches, high-flying solos, magical sets, and themes that strike a chord with everyone (friendship, loyalty, being true to yourself). The Apollo Victoria Theatre is big and buzzy, so the atmosphere is electric, even before the curtain rises. Once the show starts, it’s nonstop spectacle—the set changes are jaw-dropping, the songs are memorable, and the story reimagines the Wizard of Oz from the witches’ perspective. Even teens who aren’t “musical” fans walk out raving about the drama, humor, and clever plot twists (and humming “Defying Gravity” for weeks). If you want to make the evening even more special, pair it with pre-show eats nearby—Tozi offers tasty Italian small plates and a cool vibe, or treat your group to shakes and burgers at Five Guys down the road. London Bicycle Tour by The London Bicycle Tour Company: Pedal Through the Past and Present Who says sightseeing has to be done on foot? A guided London bike tour puts the wind in your hair and brings you right into the middle of the city’s action. Start at Lambeth, gear up, and join a small group led by a lively, local guide who knows every backstreet, shortcut, and scenic stop along the way. On two wheels, you’ll cover more ground and actually feel connected to the neighborhoods around you. Routes often weave through music-filled South Bank, the leafy lanes of Westminster, and hidden pockets of East End graffiti where you’ll discover some of London’s coolest street art. Your guide points out filming locations, shares wild stories about kings and criminals, and makes sure the whole crew sticks together—perfect for teens who thrive on new discoveries and urban adventure. The pace is friendly; there are lots of stops for snacks, photos, and local insights. By tour’s end, you’ll feel like you’ve seen “real” London (and burned off enough calories to justify another round of dessert later). Chocolate Cocktail Club: Sweets Meet Sips in a Grown-Up Setting This is not your childhood chocolate shop. The Chocolate Cocktail Club (just off Farringdon) is a dreamy spot where desserts are reimagined as cool drinks—picture milk chocolate martinis, creamy mocktails, and creative concoctions that adults and over-16s can sample. It’s a fun, offbeat pick for older teens looking for something a little more sophisticated, especially if your group appreciates an Instagrammable moment. The setting is relaxed and quirky, with velvet sofas, neon signs, and chocolate in every possible form, from truffles to cakes. We love the playful “liquid desserts” menu and mischievous seasonal specials, from salted caramel cocktails to tiramisu-inspired mocktails. Pair it with gooey brownies or a slice of rich chocolate tart (yes, sharing is required). It’s a sweet, social hour in a unique spot—perfect for post-museum morale boosts or as a reward after a day conquered together in the city. Whether your teens are sports fans, adventure seekers, aspiring artists, night owls, music buffs, or top-tier snackers, London’s got attractions and activities guaranteed to turn your trip into travel legend. The city blends old-school cool with a modern, youthful edge—just the thing to impress even the hardest-to-please teenagers and keep the whole family entertained. Enjoyed this? Check out our comprehensive guide to Sea Life, and browse our London Eye deep dive. Step up your sightseeing with Go City® We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets. See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started!

March is a good time to head to London's parks

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Why London in May is a secret worth sharing

Whisper it quietly – London in May feels a lot like the more popular summer months to come. Daylight hours stretch from 5:30AM until 8:30PM, temperatures nudge towards 20°C, and rain showers seem to lessen by the day. It means May in London is all about getting outside. Visit the likes of Borough Market and you’ll soon have more than enough goodies for a picnic in a Royal Park. Then cruise along the Thames for picturesque scenes of London’s historic skyline or meet the residents of London Zoo in their outdoor paddocks. These are just some of the great al fresco attractions that await visitors to the British capital in May. Wild beasts (and where to see them) Choose to stay in southwest London and you may be a little early for Wimbledon fortnight but you will have the chance to soak up the sun in Richmond Park thanks to the improving weather in London in May. The largest of London’s parks at 1000 hectares and a Site of Special Scientific Interest to boot, this former royal hunting ground still provides a habitat for several hundred fallow deer whilst King Henry’s Mound offers vistas reaching St Paul’s Cathedral. But it’s fashionable Chelsea that's the center of attention in May, when the Chelsea Flower Show takes over the grounds of the borough’s Royal Hospital – a home for military veterans. An annual event par excellence since 1912, attracting senior royals and a smorgasbord of A-list celebrities, this is much more than a garden show, occupying hours of television and pages of newspaper coverage. Further north, Regent’s Park is home to animals as diverse as penguins and tigers, being the site of ZSL London Zoo. A filming location in the first Harry Potter movie and a major conservation project, the zoo looks after around 20,000 animals, from leaf-cutter ants to less numerous pygmy hippos. All the world’s a stage The zoo isn’t the only reason to visit Regent’s Park, whose Open Air Theater kicks off its season of performances as the calendar hits May. Amphitheater style in form, weather conditions mean no performance is the same twice for the 1240 audience members who’ve come to enjoy the show. The South Bank’s Globe Theater also sees its actors hit the reproduction Elizabethan stage come May, though if you don’t make it to a performance of Romeo and Juliet or Hamlet, it’s still possible to head behind the scenes with a Globe Theater Tour. Don’t forget that London is home to the West End, perhaps second only to New York’s Broadway for the quality of its shows. Its 38 theaters are packed out on a nightly basis with the latest in musicals, comedies and plays, whilst Hollywood blockbusters can be enjoyed in the comfort of the Curzon Soho Cinema. Explore London’s top shopping destinations Dating back to at least 1276, Borough Market would have been known to Shakespeare and his troupe of actors, albeit in a slightly different form than the market takes today. Back then, and until the early 2000s, it served as a wholesale and retail vegetable market. It was then transformed to become a hub for curries rather than carrots and top-notch pies rather than pineapples as the street food craze took hold. Combining everything from food stalls to antiques and bric-a-brac, Portobello Road offers something different each day of the week (excluding Sundays when traders are given the day off but the stores lining the street are still open). The main day for antiques is Saturday, when a bit of friendly haggling may well get you that souvenir of your trip for a bargain price. The other big name in shopping has to be Oxford Street. This broad central London thoroughfare will be able to scratch any shopping itch, since there’s around 300 stores including most of the big names and a fair few flagship stores too. Discovery the importance of sea power to British history Say ‘flagship’ to a sailor and they’ll probably point you in the direction of HMS Belfast, the Royal Navy’s command vessel for the D Day landings in World War Two. Now a museum ship moored between London and Tower Bridge, visitors are able to explore nine decks to discover what life was like on the high seas in peace and war time. Belfast is just one of a series of things to do in London in May visible on Thames City Cruises alongside the Houses of Parliament, London Eye and Tate Modern. Four piers dotted along the river allow you to hop-on and hop-off as you choose, with the full journey occupying the historic stretch of the river from Westminster Pier to Greenwich, a part of London bursting with attractions. Among them are the Royal Observatory and Greenwich Meridian, from where the world takes its timings. The orange ball on the top of the observatory continues to drop at precisely 1PM each day, connected to an atomic clock – the most accurate timepieces in existence. But the naval links don’t stop there. As well as the scientific treasures awaiting in the National Maritime Museum, including objects used by Captain Cook in his ‘discovery’ of Australia, visitors to Greenwich can also step aboard the fastest tea clipper that ever set sail – the Cutty Sark. Compare the life of sailors onboard to that of HMS Belfast built just 70 years later, or soak in the atmosphere with a traditional afternoon tea in sublime surroundings. Unleash the secret of London in May! Thanks to relatively stable weather conditions you won’t have to worry too much about what to wear in London in May. Instead, you can concentrate on enjoying all that London has to offer. Travel with Go City, and you’ll also have the peace of mind of knowing you’re getting substantial savings on admission compared to turning up at ticket gates on the day!

Ian Packham

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