Standing beneath the London Eye, it’s easy to get swept up in London’s energy—and yes, you might worry your wallet could take off faster than a capsule! But here’s some good news: this buzzing area is packed with experiences that don’t cost a thing. Whether you’re a history buff, people-watcher, or just want to soak up riverside vibes, we’ve uncovered vibrant culture, stunning views, leafy escapes, and those quirks that make London unforgettable—all for free. Ready to wander beyond the ticket queues and see what the South Bank (and beyond) really has to offer? Let’s fill your day with London Eye neighbor gems that your budget will love.
Our favorite free things to do near the London Eye include:
South Bank Walks
Tate Modern
Jubilee Gardens
The National Theatre Foyer
BFI Southbank
Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel
The Palace of Westminster (from the outside)
Covent Garden Street Performers
St James’s Park
Gabriel’s Wharf and Riverside Murals
South Bank Walks
If you’re after atmosphere, the South Bank always delivers. Start right at the London Eye and wander east along the Thames. You’ll pass buskers, pop-up food stalls, book markets beneath Waterloo Bridge, and open-air art installations. The river views are ace: catch locals whizzing by on roller skates, violinists with sweeping soundtracks, and families soaking up city life. The path is flat and accessible, with ever-changing street theatre, pop-up exhibitions, and snapshots of classic London landmarks on both banks. Golden hour here—especially with the London skyline glowing across the water—simply can’t be beat.
Tate Modern
Tate Modern
Art lovers, rejoice: just a short stroll along the riverside path brings you to the Tate Modern, one of the world’s leading contemporary art galleries, and it’s completely free to enter. Housed in a dramatic former power station, the building itself is worth a visit. Inside, explore works by big names like Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney—plus dazzling temporary installations in the Turbine Hall. Don’t miss the upper-floor viewing terrace for knockout city views. The airy galleries and river-facing seating make this a spot to linger, recharge, and find inspiration around every corner.
Jubilee Gardens
A patch of green in the middle of city buzz, Jubilee Gardens is tailor-made for picnics, sunbathing, or just kicking back after a morning on your feet. Sunflowers, fountains, and sweeping lawns give you loads of space to relax—and the views of the Eye looming overhead make every selfie pop. There’s a children’s playground for families, plenty of benches for people-watching, and on weekends, the park hosts local events and entertainers. Bonus: it’s an ideal stop to refuel with a supermarket meal deal!
The National Theatre Foyer
Pop inside the National Theatre (no ticket required!) and you’ll find public spaces filled with changing art displays, comfy chairs, and riverside views. Free WiFi and plenty of quiet corners make this a local’s favourite for reading or people-watching. Check out pop-up exhibitions, seasonal flower displays, and on some days, you might even stumble into a lunchtime classical concert or a rehearsal happening in the lobby. It’s creative, cosseting, and right at the heart of London’s cultural buzz.
BFI Southbank
Film buffs, this one’s for you. The British Film Institute’s riverside home opens its stylish lounge, film posters and memorabilia displays, and media mediatheque archive for free visitors every day. Curl up in a mid-century chair and watch rare British films or newsreels in the mediatheque or browse fascinating archives along the foyer walls. The buzz is creative and relaxed, a great hideout for appraising movie history—especially handy on a rainy London day.
Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel
Leake Street Graffiti Tunnel
Fancy an underground adventure? Swing by Leake Street underneath Waterloo Station—it’s London’s liveliest legal graffiti spot. This ever-changing tunnel is a riot of street art, without any entrance fee. Artists paint here daily, so there’s always something new—giant murals, stencils, cartoon characters, and more. Snap photos, spot artists at work, and take in the creative, urban energy. It’s vibrant, edgy, and just a few steps from the polished riverside paths above.
The Palace of Westminster (From the Outside)
Sure, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament need no introduction, but have you truly soaked in their grandeur from across the river? Wander to Westminster Bridge (mere minutes from the London Eye) for the very best photo ops. Often, you’ll find street musicians playing dramatic anthems in the background, as red buses whoosh past and seagulls wheel overhead. You don’t need a tour or a ticket to enjoy some of London’s most famous views for absolutely nothing.
Covent Garden Street Performers
A delightful 15-minute stroll from the London Eye brings you to Covent Garden—a hub of free entertainment every day of the week. The historic piazza buzzes with magicians, musicians, living statues, and theatrical performers (juggling flaming torches is just the warm-up). The atmosphere is vibrant and cheeky: expect laughter, gasps, and the occasional magic trick right in front of you. Street entertainers have been thrilling crowds here for centuries, and the tradition is alive and kicking. Pull up a spot on the cobbles and enjoy a truly “London” spectacle.
St James’s Park
Stretch your legs with a scenic wander through St James’s Park, one of London’s oldest and most beautiful green spaces—less than 15 minutes’ walk from the Eye. Think sweeping flower beds, swans gliding across the lake, and, of course, views of Buckingham Palace at one end. The unusual pelicans (a gift from a Russian ambassador hundreds of years ago!) are always a crowd-pleaser. The park’s wide avenues and peaceful gardens offer a much-needed escape from city clamor without ever leaving the center.
Gabriel’s Wharf and Riverside Murals
Tucked along the South Bank’s river walk, Gabriel’s Wharf is a pocket-sized haven for art lovers and explorers. Follow the trail of eye-catching murals and witty signage, then enjoy the quirky vibe at the wharf itself—free riverside seating, lively outdoor sculptures, and lovely people-watching. It’s a little oasis of creativity, and while the indie shops and cafes do tempt you, the experience—and the riverside murals—come at no charge.
And there you have it—ten ways to fill your itinerary, see fresh sides of London, and keep your spending on the fun side of sensible. Happy exploring!
Enjoyed this? Check out our comprehensive guide to the London Eye, and learn even more about Southbank.
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