No Ticket Needed: Free Surprises Around Madame Tussauds

Published: April 2, 2026
woman enjoying madame tussauds, sitting next to a statue of Audrey Hepburn

Free London Finds: The Best Things to Do Near Madame Tussauds 

So you’ve finished snapping selfies with your favorite celebrities at Madame Tussauds (don’t worry, we all do it). Now what? Luckily, this corner of London is bursting with activities that won’t touch your wallet. Baker Street is a launchpad to leafy parks, charming city squares, tucked-away museums, and streets made for wandering. Forget splashing out on every attraction — you’ll find plenty of authentic London experiences for free right outside Madame Tussauds’ door. From historic strolls to hidden galleries, here’s our handpicked list to keep your itinerary buzzing and your budget blissfully happy. 

Our top free things to do near Madame Tussauds include: 

Regent’s Park 

The Sherlock Holmes Museum (front, exterior, & shop) 

Marylebone High Street 

The Wallace Collection 

St. Marylebone Parish Church 

Daunt Books (Marylebone) 

Regent’s Canal Towpath 

Paddington Street Gardens 

The Royal Academy of Music Museum 

Hyde Park (North Entrance & Speakers’ Corner) 

Regent’s Park

A five-minute stroll from Madame Tussauds brings you to one of London’s greenest treasures: Regent’s Park. This royal park is the spot for everything from picnics on manicured lawns to people-watching by the boating lake. We especially love the Queen Mary’s Rose Garden, where over 12,000 roses burst into color from late spring through summer — it’s as romantic as it sounds, and yes, it’s completely free to wander. 

Blend into London life as joggers puff along tree-lined avenues and café-goers spill out onto the grass. Don’t forget the park’s wild side: spot herons and waterfowl along the canal, or peep over the fence to catch a glimpse of giraffes inside ZSL London Zoo’s borders. Whether you stroll at sunrise or watch the sunset behind city spires, Regent’s Park always elevates the heart of the city. 

The Sherlock Holmes Museum (Facade & Shop) 

While the full museum experience comes with a ticket, it’s fun (and free) to visit the world-famous 221B Baker Street. Pose for a photo with the famous blue plaque and Sherlock statue outside the distinctive Victorian facade. The themed museum shop next door lets you browse everything Holmesy, from deerstalker hats to quirky mystery novels and pint-sized magnifying glasses, all in an atmosphere straight out of Victorian London. With staff in period dress and plenty of details to soak up, it’s a fun taster of Sherlock’s world at absolutely no cost. 

Marylebone High Street 

A stone’s throw away you’ll find Marylebone High Street, a firm local favorite for good reason. The vibe here is classic London village: think tree-lined streets, characterful brick buildings, and tempting storefronts. Window-shopping is half the fun, plus you’ll feel the buzz of independent boutiques, cheese shops, florists, and cute cafés on every corner. It’s perfect for a leisurely wander and a proper slice of local city life. The small side streets off the main drag are full of personality, too — keep an eye out for quirky architecture and gorgeous window displays. 

The Wallace Collection 

Ready for some grandeur? The Wallace Collection is a genuine London treat — and completely free to enter. Housed in a dazzling historic townhouse, this gallery is the place for European paintings, decorative art, and shimmering suits of armor. Picture ornate rooms gleaming with Old Masters and rococo treasures, all a world away from the city bustle outside. We love the hushed, refined ambiance — and if you’re a fan of a well-placed selfie, the drawing rooms are hard to beat. 

Tip: The glass-roofed courtyard café is open to all (even just for a peek or a cup of water). 

St. Marylebone Parish Church 

Some London history is best experienced in peaceful places. St. Marylebone Parish Church stands just a short walk up Marylebone Road. Step inside this beautiful neoclassical building, with its stunning columns and peaceful ambiance. Admire stained glass windows, cozy nooks, and serene chapels — this is the spot for a moment of reflection or simply to recharge your batteries. Bonus: the crypt sometimes hosts free exhibitions and events, so check the schedule before you go. 

Daunt Books (Marylebone)

Bookworms, rejoice. Daunt Books on Marylebone High Street is a pilgrimage spot for anyone who loves a well-curated shelf and gorgeous interiors. Housed in a stunning Edwardian shop, complete with lofty galleries and oak-panelled nooks, it’s a dream for browsing. Entrance is always free, and the views of sunbeams streaming through stained glass are fair game for your camera. Get lost among travel titles, London author highlights, and cozy armchairs. There’s no rush — soak up the atmosphere, smell the books, and collect some literary inspiration for your London wanderings. 

Regent’s Canal Towpath 

London’s waterways are packed with character, and Regent’s Canal is the city’s peaceful hidden artery. Enter near Regent’s Park and stroll along towpaths fringed by narrowboats, street art, and plenty of ducks. It’s urban London at its most tranquil. This is the perfect route for clear-headed thinking, quiet conversation, and people-watching (cyclists, joggers, and eccentric boat-dwellers make up the local cast). Each stretch reveals riverside gardens, quirky bridges, and café-boats perfect for a free-water pit-stop. 

Paddington Street Gardens 

City parks don’t get much more charming than Paddington Street Gardens. Hidden between elegant Victorian terraces in Marylebone, this tiny oasis is a favorite escape for locals. Grassy lawns, beds overflowing with blooms, and tree-shaded benches mean lunch hours can stretch into sunny afternoons. Stroll among the winding paths and spot old tombstones hinting at the area’s deep history. Go for calm, stay for the people-watching — it’s the perfect place for a takeaway picnic or an hour of rest after a busy London morning. 

The Royal Academy of Music Museum 

Just a short walk north of Madame Tussauds, The Royal Academy of Music Museum offers a treasure trove of musical history — and free entry to boot. From ancient stringed instruments to quirky mechanical music boxes and famous composers’ belongings, every display hums with creativity. Interactive screens let you listen to rare historic recordings, and you can peek into rooms where future stars are rehearsing. The ambiance is lively but hushed — a real inspiration for anyone feeling creative. Don’t be surprised if you leave humming your favorite tune. 

Hyde Park (North Entrance & Speakers’ Corner) 

Few parks offer the variety and space of Hyde Park, only about a 10-minute walk from Madame Tussauds’ main entrance. The North Entrance opens a world of open lawns, wildflowers, and hidden statues, but the star event happens at Speakers’ Corner — a uniquely London tradition of public debate and soapbox speeches that’s been drawing crowds for more than a century. No ticket required to listen (or get up to speak yourself on a Sunday). Hyde Park’s walking paths grant endless people-watching, sun basking, and a real sense of London leisure. 

 

Whatever your interest, you’ll find a free adventure by Madame Tussauds — so leave some room on your itinerary, grab your walking shoes, and discover a side of the city that’s friendly to your budget. 

 

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

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! 

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London with Parents: Fabulous Days Out for Every Generation

London’s got plenty of wonders to dazzle solo travelers, but the city truly sparkles when you’re exploring it with your parents. Whether you’re here to show off historic landmarks, sample world-class teas, or enjoy the simple pleasure of walking hand in hand along the Thames, this is a city that caters to family fun at every age. From royal palaces to theatrical tours, lush gardens to skyline views, London offers something special around every corner—so nobody feels left out. Ready for an adventure packed with iconic (oops—not that word!) sights, tasty pit stops, and lifelong memories? Let’s make your London trip one to remember, with our pick of the city's very best parent-friendly experiences.  Our top things to do with parents in London include:  The Tower of London  The London Eye  Westminster Abbey  City Cruises – Thames River Pass  St Paul’s Cathedral  Kew Gardens  Changing of the Guard Walking Tour  The View from the Shard  Harrods Afternoon Tea  London Theatre Walking Tour  THE LONDON EYE: SHARE SKY-HIGH VIEWS  If ever an attraction could guarantee a ‘wow’ moment for your parents, it’s the London Eye. This giant observation wheel sits right on the Thames, offering panoramic views of the capital from warm, comfortable glass pods. Whether your family loves snapping skyline photos or just wants to tick off major sights with a single rotation, the London Eye makes the city feel both cozy and epic.  The experience starts as you step into your capsule—spacious, slow-moving, and with seating for a breather. The higher you rise, the more landmarks appear: Parliament, St Paul’s, the Shard and beyond. Try a sunset ride if you can; the golden-hour glow makes London especially photogenic, and the city lights beginning to twinkle add a magical touch.  The vibe is peaceful and reflective, making it perfect for parents who might not love big crowds or hectic streets. Each pod offers interactive guides so you can learn about what you see without any pressure. Bonus points if you treat your parents to a glass of bubbly from the onboard bar for that extra celebratory touch.  Back at ground level, the South Bank’s bustling riverside is perfect for a family stroll, whether you’re seeking out street performers or eyeing up the nearest pub for a snack. Simple, thrilling, and sweetly sentimental—the London Eye is family fun at its finest.  WESTMINSTER ABBEY: WHERE HISTORY MEETS GRANDEUR  London doesn’t come much more regal than Westminster Abbey—a must for parents who appreciate soaring architecture and centuries of ceremony. Walking through its majestic doors feels special every time, whether you’re chatting about royal coronations or tracing the brass plaques of poets and scientists underfoot.  The light streams in through stained glass windows, illuminating architectural details that have hosted everything from dazzling weddings to somber memorials (and pretty much every coronation for the last thousand years). The Abbey tour is easy to follow, with plenty of clear signposting and quiet corners for a rest or thoughtful moment.  Parents with a love of literature get a kick out of Poet's Corner, where national treasures like Dickens and Austen are commemorated. If they’re more interested in the monarchy, you can peek at memorials dedicated to kings, queens and bold adventurers.  The Abbey’s peaceful atmosphere invites visitors to slow down and savour the moment. Take some time in the gardens: often uncrowded, they’re filled with seasonal blooms and plenty of chatty songbirds—which always adds a romantic air. Don’t miss the centuries-old Abbey shop for beautifully crafted souvenirs and unique gifts to remind your family of their royal day out.  CITY CRUISES – THAMES RIVER PASS: SAIL THROUGH THE CITY  For parents who prefer to see the sights without pounding the pavement, a Thames river cruise is pure bliss. These leisurely boats glide past some of London’s most famous landmarks, with open decks for photos and indoor cabins for comfort. It’s relaxed, scenic and endlessly entertaining—ideal for anyone who values good company and even better views.  On board, your family can spot the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, the Globe Theatre and more—all narrated with fascinating facts and just enough dry London humour. There’s no need to fret about steps or crowds, making it a great pick for less mobile parents or anyone seeking a break from the city’s hustle and bustle.  You can hop on and off at major piers, crafting your own sightseeing route (or simply staying put and enjoying a round-trip cruise in style). The riverside breezes, the changing cityscape, and the chance to watch rowers, paddleboarders and bustling market boats go by—what’s not to love? Afterwards, the nearby South Bank bursts with cafes, bookstores and art galleries, perfect for a riverside snack or a casual wander. For families wanting to see London in a new light, a Thames cruise checks all the boxes for relaxation and adventure.  KEW GARDENS: A GREEN RETREAT FOR NATURE LOVERS  Parents and gardens—name a better pair! Kew Gardens, on the western edge of the city, is London’s great green escape. With over 320 acres of glasshouses, themed gardens, and woodland walks, it’s the sort of place that invites visitors of every age to slow down and smell the roses—literally.  The gorgeous Victorian Palm House is a tropical paradise year-round, while the Temperate House showcases weird and wonderful species from every continent. Seasonal displays—from bluebells to cherry blossom—always offer something new, and in spring and summer, the whole park buzzes with colour and birdsong.  The atmosphere is as peaceful as they come, with wide, accessible paths and plenty of shaded benches. Kew’s cafés serve up proper British treats like cream teas and hearty sausage rolls—ideal for a family pit stop. If your parents love wildlife or photography, keep your eyes peeled for robins, butterflies and cheeky squirrels posing among the blooms.  The on-site art galleries, treetop walkway, and historic pagoda round out a day that’s both relaxing and gently educational. Even reluctant gardeners will come away with a newfound love for greenery—and a phone full of flower photos.  CHANGING OF THE GUARD WALKING TOUR: PAGEANTRY UP CLOSE  If there’s one experience that captures the ceremonial side of London, it’s the Changing of the Guard. Rather than jostle for space at the palace gates, join a walking tour that gets your family closer to the action.  Led by guides brimming with fun facts and royal anecdotes, you’ll trace the winding route from St James’s Palace to Buckingham Palace, learning the meaning behind every feathered hat and gleaming boot. Guides keep things lively—pointing out historical oddities, offering tips for spotting the best angles, and sharing plenty of behind-the-scenes stories that make the whole affair feel like a private performance.  The mood is festive, with crowds drawn together by marching bands and dazzling uniforms. Parents and kids alike are sure to love the mix of military pomp and playful showmanship. The changing guards parade in perfect unison, topped off with the stirring sounds of brass and drums.   After all the excitement, stroll through Green Park or St James’s Park and enjoy the city at its greenest. There’s plenty of seating and quiet corners for a chat or picnic, with squirrels and pelicans often close by. This classic London experience is guaranteed to put smiles on faces and leave everyone whistling a cheerful marching tune.  THE VIEW FROM THE SHARD: LONDON AT YOUR FEET  If your parents appreciate a great view (and who doesn’t?), nothing beats the dizzying heights of The Shard. Europe’s tallest building offers sweeping vistas from its glass-walled observation decks—360 degrees of London, all laid out before you in miniature.  The journey up in the high-speed lift is a thrill in itself, but the real highlight is the space at the top: airy, modern, and surprisingly tranquil, even at busy times. With floor-to-ceiling windows, you can spot Windsor Castle on a clear day, or just trace the curve of the Thames as it snakes through the city.  There’s a champagne bar on the viewing floor—great for celebrating a special birthday or just toasting to family adventures. Take your time walking around; interactive telescopes and screens have plenty of information for curious minds, or you can simply press your nose to the glass and soak up the dizzying scale.  On the descent, the surrounding London Bridge area is packed with market stalls, independent shops, and tempting restaurants. The atmosphere feels youthful but welcoming for all, and it’s the ideal place to round out your family expedition with street food or a slice of rich local cake HARRODS AFTERNOON TEA: A LUXURIOUS PAUSE  Every parent deserves to be pampered, and there’s no better place than the tearooms at Harrods. Think: tiered stands of dainty sandwiches, warm scones with jam and clotted cream, and miniature pastries so pretty you’ll hesitate to eat them (but do, they’re delicious).   The tea menu is vast, pleasing even the choosiest connoisseur—whether your family fancies a brisk darjeeling or floral blends that are practically perfume in a teacup. Expect chic, art deco décor with gleaming mirrors and plush carpeting, which makes the whole affair feel like taking tea with royalty.  Service is friendly and unhurried, and the experience is as much about taking your time as it is about the delicious bites. It offers a restful break in the heart of Knightsbridge’s shopping crush, and it never fails to charm, whatever the weather outside. For the extra wow-factor, pair your tea with a stroll through Harrods’ legendary Food Halls, where mountains of chocolates, cheeses and cakes tempt you to pick up edible souvenirs for later.  LONDON THEATRE WALKING TOUR: SHOWBIZ SECRETS REVEALED  If your parents are fans of musical theatre or just love a backstage story, a London Theatre Walking Tour will have them grinning from ear to ear. Led by theatre insiders, it’s a chance to dive into the West End’s glitzy world, tracing stories from Shakespeare to Hamilton and beyond.  Each guide brings tales of legendary actors, behind-the-curtain drama, and the sometimes-scandalous origins of London’s oldest theatres. You’ll stroll down Shaftesbury Avenue, peek at production posters, and even wander into historic alleyways where stars and fans have mingled for generations.  The pace is gentle, with plenty of opportunities to pause, listen and take photos. The mix of humorous anecdotes and fascinating facts keeps everyone entertained, and the experience often ends with recommendations for where to grab the best pre-show cocktails or nibbles.  Round off your adventure with tickets to a family-approved West End show—nothing beats the thrill of sharing live theatre in a city that’s been putting on a show for centuries.    London is a gift to families traveling together—offering centuries of history, world-class scenery, and a sense of fun around every corner. Whether you’re marveling at the Crown Jewels, indulging in a decadent afternoon tea, or swapping stories at the top of The Shard, these experiences set the stage for treasured memories. With so much variety, it’s easy to create the perfect trip for you and your parents—soak up every moment, and watch London bring you closer together.    Enjoyed this? Check out our comprehensive guide to Sea Life, and make your Pride a memorable one.     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! 

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