London is one of the most extraordinary cities in the world. It is also one of the easiest cities to explore on foot.
If you are looking for free things to do in London that combine history, architecture, nature, and iconic landmarks, this self-guided walking route is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the city.
This scenic walk begins in Hyde Park and winds its way through royal parks, historic parade grounds, and along the River Thames, finishing at Tower Bridge. It covers some of London’s most famous landmarks while also revealing quieter, more reflective corners of the city.
Lace up your walking shoes. This is a long one, and it is absolutely worth it.
Overview of the Route
Start: Lancaster Gate (Hyde Park)
Finish: Tower Bridge
Distance: Approximately 5–6 miles (depending on detours)
Cost: Completely free
Best for: First-time visitors, photographers, history lovers, and anyone who enjoys a long, scenic walk
This route can easily fill half a day or a full day if you pause for coffee, lunch, or spontaneous sightseeing.
1. The Italian Gardens, Hyde Park
Begin your walk at the Lancaster Gate entrance of Hyde Park and head toward one of its most romantic corners: the Italian Gardens.
Created in the 1860s, the Italian Gardens were believed to be a gift from Prince Albert to Queen Victoria. The space features ornate fountains, classical urns, sculpted stone figures, and symmetrical water basins that feel more European than English.
Look closely near the pump house at the north end of the gardens. You may spot the initials of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert engraved in the stone.
It is a peaceful, elegant place to begin your day.
2. Hyde Park
Hyde Park spans 350 acres in the heart of London. Despite its central location, it has pathways that feel wonderfully removed from the noise of the city.
One of the great pleasures of Hyde Park is wandering without a strict plan. Quiet wooded paths, open green fields, and long stretches of sky create a surprising sense of calm.
Hyde Park is one of the best free things to do in London simply because it offers space. In a city that rarely slows down, that space feels luxurious.
3. Wellington Arch
As you exit Hyde Park near Hyde Park Corner, you will see Wellington Arch.
Originally designed as a grand entrance to Buckingham Palace, the arch commemorates the Duke of Wellington’s victory over Napoleon. Many people walk past it without realizing its historical significance.
In non-restricted times, visitors can enter the arch and climb to the top for views across London. Even from the outside, it is an impressive and often overlooked landmark.
4. Buckingham Palace
Continue along Constitution Hill toward Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British monarch since 1837.
The palace contains 775 rooms, including 19 State Rooms and 52 royal and guest bedrooms. During parts of the year, the State Rooms are open to visitors, although viewing the exterior remains a powerful experience in its own right.
Standing in front of Buckingham Palace, especially along The Mall, offers a glimpse into ceremonial London at its grandest.
5. The Mall
The Mall is the long ceremonial avenue leading up to Buckingham Palace. It is the route used for royal weddings, jubilees, and the annual Trooping the Colour celebration.
On quieter days, it is a striking stretch of red pavement framed by Union flags and trees. It feels theatrical and deeply British.
6. St James’s Park
From Buckingham Palace, enter St James’s Park.
Smaller than Hyde Park at just 57 acres, St James’s Park is known for its beautiful lake, views of the palace, and unexpected wildlife. Pelicans have lived here for nearly 400 years, originally presented as a gift from the Russian ambassador to King Charles II.
From the bridge in the center of the park, you can capture one of the most photographed views in London: Buckingham Palace in one direction and the London skyline in the other.
7. Horse Guards Parade
As you continue, you will reach the Horse Guards Parade, the ceremonial parade ground in St James’s Park.
This is where the annual Trooping the Colour takes place, marking the official birthday of the British sovereign. More than 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses, and hundreds of musicians participate in the ceremony each June.
Even on a regular day, seeing the mounted guards on duty is a memorable experience. The Changing the Guard occurs daily at 11:00 am (10:00 am on Sundays).
Recommendation: Keep a respectful distance. The posted signs warning that horses may kick or bite are not decorative.
8. Westminster & Big Ben
Head toward Westminster Station and Parliament Square.
Here you will see the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Big Ben. Even during restoration periods, the scale and presence of this area are remarkable.
Parliament Square dates back to 1868 and often serves as a gathering place for public demonstrations and civic expression. It is a powerful space that reflects London’s political history and present.
9. The London Eye & South Bank
Cross Westminster Bridge for a view of the London Eye, also known as the Millennium Wheel.
The London Eye is Europe’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel and one of the most visited paid attractions in the United Kingdom. Even without purchasing a ticket, the riverside perspective is worth the walk.
South Bank offers street performers, food stalls, and panoramic views across the Thames. On colder days, a hot chocolate or mulled wine can make the experience even more enjoyable.
10. Borough Market & Southwark Cathedral
Continue along the Thames toward Borough Market.
Borough Market dates back over 1,000 years and remains one of London’s most beloved food markets. Even if you do not stop to eat, walking through the surrounding streets offers a strong sense of historic London.
Nearby, Southwark Cathedral stands quietly against the backdrop of modern skyscrapers like The Shard. The contrast between medieval architecture and contemporary design perfectly captures London’s layered identity.
11. Tower Bridge
End your walk at Tower Bridge.
Built between 1886 and 1894, Tower Bridge remains one of London’s most iconic landmarks. It lifts approximately 800 times per year to allow river traffic to pass through.
Many visitors confuse Tower Bridge with London Bridge, but the two are distinct. Tower Bridge is the ornate, Victorian structure that dominates postcards and photographs.
Standing beneath it at sunset is one of the most cinematic experiences in London. As a bonus, you can go inside Tower Bridge, including walking over the glass walkway and exploring the Victorian engine rooms.
Why This Is One of the Best Free Things to Do in London
This walking route combines:
- Royal history
- Grand architecture
- Scenic parks
- River views
- Historic markets
- Iconic landmarks
It costs nothing, yet it delivers a full London experience. However, it’s worth calling out that many of the stops like the Wellington Arch, Buckingham Palace, The Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, The London Eye, and Tower Bridge, etc. also have tours that you can pay for if you want to explore the interiors. I’ve put links in where relevant throughout the blog post.
In a single day, you move from romantic gardens gifted by Prince Albert to Queen Victoria to the site of royal parades, to the political heart of the country, to the modern skyline of Southwark.
Few cities offer that kind of continuity.
Practical Tips for This London Walking Route
- Wear comfortable shoes. This is a long walk.
- Build in coffee or snack stops along South Bank or Borough Market.
- Consider starting early to avoid peak crowds near Buckingham Palace and Westminster.
- In warmer months, bring water and sunscreen.
- In winter, layer up. The Thames can feel particularly chilly.
If you are planning your first visit to London or looking to rediscover the city from a fresh perspective, this scenic walking route is one of the most rewarding ways to do it.
Walk The Route With Me!
I filmed this walking tour for my YouTube channel – you can check it out below.
For more London itineraries, afternoon tea guides, and cultural experiences, explore My London Guide.
Would you try this full walk, or would you break it into sections over a few days?
Did you find this blog post helpful? I always love a simple thank you but if you did want to buy me a coffee as a thank you (my favorite beverage while writing these blog posts!), visit:
buymeacoffee.com/jessicagioglio
Jessica Gioglio founded the travel and lifestyle blog, The SavvyBostonian and is the co-author of The Laws of Brand Storytelling and The Power of Visual Storytelling. Professionally, Jessica has led innovative marketing and public relations programs for Dunkin’, TripAdvisor, Sprinklr, and more. Today, Jessica is a keynote speaker on brand storytelling (book her here) and founder of With Savvy Media & Marketing, a strategic branding, storytelling, and content strategy consultancy.
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