London is home to a plethora a free things to do. Below is a list of my favourite 5 things to do.
Scott Mackay
http://www.whatsfreeinlondon.co.uk
The Ceremony of the Keys
The Ceremony of the Keys is the traditional locking up of the Tower of London and has been taking place for over 700 years. This is one of the hidden treasures of London’s incredible history and one many travellers are unaware of. Places on this exclusive event are often booked out three months in advance. Applications must be made by post. This means preparation is essential if you want to be sure of your involvement in this ancient ceremony.
Guided Walks
One of the best ways to see London is to hear about it from a local. Many of the London boroughs (the local councils) offer free guided walks with experienced and knowledgeable local guides. This is a great way to find out about the history of the buildings and areas that have made London such a famous city. Explore areas such as: Bloomsbury, Holborn, St Giles, Paddington, Little Venice and many more.
Festivals
London is home to a plethora of free festivals (over 30) throughout the year. Festivals range from celebrating local areas to celebrating cultures from all over the world. Some of the highlights of the London festival calendar are: The Pearly Costermonger's Harvest Festival - Each London Borough has a King and Queen. It's a colourful London tradition and one that has been kept alive by a few dedicated people, who remain figureheads for the capital's working class communities.Another really popular and interesting festival is Open House London. This festival runs for two days and many of the cities famous buildings and landmarks such as: The Bank of England, Lloyd’s of London and Mansion House are open to the general public. This is a once a year opportunity to see parts of London that are normally off limits to tourists.
London Museums at Night
London is home to many of the world’s greatest museums. What many people don’t realise it that London is also home to over 30 free museums. For something different though you could try visiting the Museums at night as part of the National ‘Museums at Night’ event. From May 13-15, various museums will open their doors at night for a serious of special events.
Trooping the Colour
Trooping the Colour is a traditional ceremony which is the official public celebration of the Queen’s birthday. Trooping the Colour is carried out by fully trained and operational troops from the Household Division on Horse Guards Parade in Whitehall. This year ‘Trooping the Colour’ will be held on June 11 and is a not to miss event for all royal enthusiasts. The processions can be seen from the Mall or on the edge of St James's Park overlooking Horse Guards. Events begin at approximately 10.00am, with the fly-past at 1.00pm. If you would like to watch the parade without the crowds, a rehearsal (known as The Colonel's Review) usually takes place a week before the actual Birthday Parade.
