London is a fantastic city to visit, with countless attractions, activities, and events to suit every taste and budget. However, London can also be quite expensive, especially when it comes to accommodation, transport, and entertainment. That's why staying at Mercure London Paddington Hotel is a smart choice, as it offers comfortable and convenient rooms at affordable prices, near Paddington Station and Hyde Park. But what if we told you that you can also enjoy some of the best things that London has to offer without spending a penny? Yes, you heard that right. There are many free things to do in London that will make your trip memorable and fun. Here are some of the top free places to visit and free things to do in London that you can easily access from Mercure London Paddington Hotel.
- Visit the British Museum: The British Museum is one of the most famous and popular museums in the world, and for good reason. It houses an amazing collection of artefacts and artworks from different cultures and periods of history, such as the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, the Sutton Hoo ship burial, and the mummies of ancient Egypt. The best part is that the museum is free to enter and explore, although some special exhibitions may require a ticket. The British Museum is only a short tube ride away from Mercure London Paddington Hotel, making it a must-see attraction for any visitor to London.
- Enjoy Hyde Park: Hyde Park is one of the largest and most beautiful parks in London, and it's right next to Mercure London Paddington Hotel. You can enjoy a relaxing walk, a bike ride, a boat ride, or a picnic in the park, and admire the stunning views of the Serpentine Lake, the Diana Memorial Fountain, and the Speakers' Corner. Hyde Park is also home to many events and festivals throughout the year, such as Winter Wonderland, British Summer Time, and Pride in London. Whether you want to enjoy some nature, some culture, or some fun, Hyde Park has something for everyone.
- See the Changing of the Guard: One of the most iconic and traditional ceremonies in London is the Changing of the Guard, which takes place at Buckingham Palace. This is when the old guard hands over the duty of protecting the palace to the new guard, accompanied by music and marching. The ceremony is free to watch and lasts about 45 minutes. It usually takes place every day at 11am from April to July, and every other day for the rest of the year, but check the schedule before you go. Buckingham Palace is only a short bus ride away from Mercure London Paddington Hotel, making it a great opportunity to see some royal history and pomp.
- Explore Camden Market: Camden Market is one of the most vibrant and eclectic markets in London, where you can find everything from vintage clothes and antiques to street food and crafts. You can browse the stalls, sample the cuisine, listen to live music, and soak up the atmosphere. Camden Market is free to enter and open every day from 10am to 6pm. You can easily get to Camden Market from Mercure London Paddington Hotel by taking the tube to Camden Town station, which is only a few stops away.
- Visit the Sky Garden: The Sky Garden is one of the most unique and spectacular attractions in London, offering panoramic views of the city skyline from the top of a skyscraper. The Sky Garden is a public space that features a landscaped garden, a bar, a restaurant, and an observation deck. The Sky Garden is free to visit, but you need to book a ticket online in advance, as the space is limited. The Sky Garden is located at 20 Fenchurch Street, also known as the Walkie Talkie building, which is only a short tube ride away from Mercure London Paddington Hotel.