London is probably the most expensive city in the world (least itseems that way). Now we all know there is no such thing as a freelunch, so make your sandwiches, pack your rucksack and check out oursuggestion of free things to do in London. Whilst we can list avariety of events and attractions that won't cost you a bean, we can'tpromise that you won't have to part with a penny or two for travel orrefreshments. If you can't face paying for refreshments, don't and getfree travel to the local police station. 1. If you fancy livingdangerously then why not view a trial in session at the Old Bailey? TheOld Bailey is the most famous criminal Eco-friendly Fresh-Keeping Box court in the world, hearingcases from London and all over England and Wales. The original OldBailey courthouse dates back to 1539. Famous trials held there include;Oscar Wilde, Dr Crippen, William Joyce ('Lord Haw Haw'), the Krays andthe Yorkshire Ripper.
The public galleries are open Monday toFriday from 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm. You may have to queue to gainentry as the Old Bailey has become a popular tourist attraction.Get a beginners lesson free of charge on Wednesdays at around 7pm.We should warn you that this is a popular event for newbies, hence werecommend you do not wear open toed sandals. After the event go fordrinks in the bar and if you haven't impressed Mr or Mrs Right withyour dancing skills, try again after a few drinks. Bar Salsa is inCharing Cross Road and the nearest tube is Tottenham Court Road. 5.Watch a politician in action! See history in the making by watching adebate as it happens in the Houses Of Parliament. Not only would thisbe a thrilling way to spend your morning or afternoon but you also getto spend time in the historic Palace of Westminster. The Palace wasbuilt in 1042 as a royal residence. Some years later the WestminsterHall was built which housed stalls selling many legal accessories.Following a fire in 1834 the Palace was rebuilt and now includes thefamous clock tower (Big Ben). If you want to view Prime Minister'squestion time you will need to book in advance. The nearest tube isWestminster. 6. Visit the Tower of London, after it has closedto tourists. The Tower of London has performed many roles over theyears, namely a royal palace, a prison, a place of execution and ajewel house. It is definitely a must see for tourists, however theguided tours can often be crowded and noisy.
What about your ownpersonal tour minus the crowds? Few people know of an ancient ceremonythat has been performed at the Tower every evening in one way oranother for the last 700 years. At precisely 9.30pm the Yeoman Wardersand the military guard lock the outer gates to the Tower and deliverthe keys to the Resident Governor of the Tower. This ceremony is opento the public by tickets booked in advance. You can watch this ancientceremony with a small group of people and feel privileged to havegained access to this beautiful piece of history without the crowds.Visit their website for further information - hrp.org.uk/. The nearesttube is Tower Hill. We have tried out all of the above and canhonestly say we really enjoyed ourselves. Our pleasure was obviouslyheightened by the fact that our entertainment was free. It just goes toshow you that there are plenty of things to do in London for free ifyou know where to look.
