London ideas

[Sundaynightterrors]

We (DP and I) are in London next weekend. We have a number of things already planned - theatre, afternoon tea, etc but have a bit of a window of time between about 5pm and 8pm on the Saturday. So I am looking for something we could do that is central and free as we have already spent quite a bit on the other activities. Any suggestions?

Visit Tate modern?
Which has great views over the river.

St. James Park. The pelicans are lovely and it's right next to Buckingham Palace and not far from Big Ben/Downing Street/Whitehall

We went recently and it was a real highlight of the trip

National gallery
National portrait museum
harrods

Or just meander and wander around Covent Garden, China town, Piccadilly Circus, seven dial area etc. They’re all within walking distance of one another.

A walk along the Southbank from the London Eye down to Borough Market is one of my favourite things to do

There’s a viewing space in the city near Bishopsgate which is free. The Mithraeum (sp?) at bank is also free too.

Actually this. Get a river bus (oyster payment) and pick where to go.

Can you cope with crowds ok? It is very busy and full on touristy at the places lots have recommended so far. I went to the National Gallery on Saturday and it was a struggle to enjoy the paintings as everyone had their phones out taking pictures. You’d have time to walk down to Tate Britain and see the wonderful artwork there. It’s far less crowded than the Modern and easier to get around. St James is a good shout too if the weather is nice. However, if you want to get fully immersed in the atmosphere then stick to parts like China Town, Piccadilly Circus and Covent Garden- it’s still a good experience. Just don’t go on a tuk tuk or walk around with your phone out!

https://www.stmartin-in-the-fields.org/whats-on/bach-and-handel-by-candlelight/# worth a visit on another day and there’s a cafe in the crypt which is always a popular and affordable spot

Thanks everyone for the suggestions. Will be looking into them to see what will work. Am conscious that it will be getting dark and some places close at 5pm / 6pm.