The best free and cheap things to do this long weekend
By Manolis Zografakis
Got no plans for the bank holiday weekend? No worries! We’ve found the best free and cheap things to do in London this Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
Every August, it feels like everyone is talking about Notting Hill Carnival, right? However, there plenty of people out there (like me), who can’t stand the crowds and craziness of Europe’s biggest street festival… If that’s also your case, don’t worry at all! There are loads of awesome alternatives that won’t be quite so crowded and won’t break the bank. So, have a look below to find our top picks, and if the top 5 isn’t enough you should also check out the top 10 free things to do in London in August and the best free film screenings in town.
#1 River Stage Weekends | South Bank | Free
Cannot face the Notting Hill hordes? Then, head to the National Theatre for a weekend of music, dance, performance, outdoor cinema and family fun.
P.S Don’t miss Charisma’s dj set!
When: 26-29 August
Where: South Bank, SE1 9PX
Cost: Free
#2 Cider Festival & Hog Roast | The Water Poet | Free
The Water Poet is hosting a Cider Festival & Hog Roast once again this August bank holiday weekend, celebrating all things cider. You will find a wide selection of craft ciders from a variety of producers all over the UK, home-made cider ice cream and live music.
When: Saturday 27th – Monday 29th (All day from 12pm)
Where: 9-11 Folgate Street, E1 6BX
Cost: Free
#3 Notting Hill Carnival | Notting Hill | Free
Europe’s biggest street festival kicks off this Sunday with floats, food, fantastic costumes and London’s biggest free street party.
When: 28th – 29th August
Where: Notting Hill
Cost: Free
#4 Soul Food Carnival Special | Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen | £5
Put on your dancing shoes and head to Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen for some brazillian bangers, funky grooves, afrobeat treats, and a free dance class!
When: Saturday 27 (8pm-2am)
Where: Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen, 2-4 Hoxton Square, N1 6NU
Cost: £5
#5 Museum Late | Natural History Museum | Free
The Natural History Museum opens its doors till late this Friday, with free entry to the Central Hall and Images of Nature gallery. This month, find out what it takes to party like an animal.
When: Friday 27th August (6pm – 8pm)
Where: Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD
Cost: Free