Budget-friendly things to do in London this week for £5 or less.
Looking for more free things to do in London? Here are 102 of em! We've also compiled this epic map of free stuff in London.
See how the Islamic world inspired William Morris
One of our recommended exhibitions for this December is William Morris & Art from the Islamic World at William Morris Gallery in Walthamstow. See how many of Morris' wallpapers, furnishing fabrics, carpets and embroideries were informed by Islamic designs, including those he kept in his personal collection.
Free, until 9 March 2025. Open Tuesdays-Sundays.
Explore the Silk Roads in a relaxed environment
The British Museum hosts a relaxed evening event themed around the current Silk Roads exhibition. Explore artefacts, participate in creative activities, and enjoy the museum's ambience in a quieter setting — ideal for anyone with special sensory needs
£5, 16 December.
Have a laugh at Comedy for the Curious
Join marine biologist turned comedian Robyn Perkins for a mix of stand-up and science. Comedy for the Curious: Love & Hate examines relationships and the science behind one night stands, with insights from guest psychologist Dr Ally Grandison and TikTok star Finlay Christie. Takes place at Top Secret Comedy Club on Drury Lane.
£1 (+ voluntary donation at end of show), 16 December.
Watch Christmas films for free in Wembley
Boxpark Wembley offers free-entry screenings of four different festive films this week. Watch The Polar Express on Monday, A Christmas Carol on Wednesday, The Best Man Holiday on Friday, and Home Alone on Sunday. Though entry is free, there are plenty of chances to purchase food and drink once you're inside.
Note that the venue is 18+ after 8pm, even for films classified for younger audiences.
Free, 16-22 December.
See the Ever After Garden before it closes
You've only got until Wednesday to visit the Ever After Garden, a field of 30,000 glowing white roses in Grosvenor Square, Mayfair.
The illuminated installation is designed as a garden of remembrance, raising money for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. Wander paths among the roses, taking time to reflect. It's free to visit, or you can pay to dedicate a rose in memory of a loved one (suggested minimum donation £10).
Free (though donations encouraged), until 18 December, 3pm-9pm daily.
Stay late at the Science Museum
For the first time ever, the Science Museum holds a late-night opening with a Christmas theme. Explore the galleries after hours, and take part in activities including using maths to create Christmas decorations, and joining in with a large carol-singing session. Mince pies and mulled wine are available to buy, and the usual Lates entertainment includes a silent disco.
Free entry, 18 December. Age 18+.
Soak up some live latin jazz
The Old Blue Last pub in Shoreditch welcomes back the Dom Hall Trio, who'll be playing latin jazz classics for you to unwind to, with a drink or two.
Free, 20 December. Age 18+.
Attend a free Carols by Candlelight service
You'll want to arrive early if you're planning to attend the free Carols by Candlelight event at Islington's Union Chapel, as the unticketed event is always popular. See the beautiful building lit by candles as you join in with well-known carols and hear the Christmas story told through spoken word, prayer and music.
Free, 22 December.
Take a self-guided walk through London's Christmas lights
Keen to see the Christmas lights of the West End, but not sure how to go about it? We've put together a guide to this year's festive illuminations including when, where and how to see them. Up for an adventure? Follow this self-guided walking tour around the best lights and festive sights in the West End. It's completely free to visit them all (unless you duck into a cafe or pub for hot chocolate or mulled wine along the way). You could also hop on a TfL bus and watch the lights roll past the windows.
Free (or the cost of the bus fare), until early January).
Do Christmas in London on a budget
There's no doubt that this is a spendy time of year, but there are ways to enjoy the festivities without parting with a penny. Our guide to free things to do in London at Christmas has plenty of ideas to see you right up to the big day.
