The crossover between late summer and early autumn is a truly joyous time, and it deserves to be made the most of – even if you’re on a bit of a budget. So we’ve partnered with TfL to round up some great ways to enjoy London for less this September. Think stunning viewpoints, great art galleries and plenty of al fresco activities to help you make the most of those warmer days while we still have them.
Keeping with the theme of enjoying London on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save on travel with TfL. Adult fares on the London Overground, Tube, DLR and Elizabeth line are capped at £16.30 a day in Zones 1–6 when you pay as you go with the same Oyster card or contactless device, meaning once you reach the cap, any additional journeys that day are free.
What’s more, children aged 5–10 can travel free on all TfL services with a 5-10 Zip Oyster photocard, making it easier to travel around the city and make the most of summer. And if you choose to travel outside of the busiest times, you could also enjoy a quieter journey that also costs less thanks to off-peak fares.
Petanque, Pancras Square, King’s Cross
We refuse to believe summer is over just yet – and some leisurely, al fresco sport is the perfect way to eke it out even more. King’s Cross’ free pétanque courts are open until September 3o in Pancras Square, so rally some players and enjoy a little slice of Provence in central London this September.
Feast your eyes on the city’s most iconic landmarks at London’s highest, free viewing platform. After racing to the 58th floor in only 41 seconds (that’s 8 metres per second!), you’ll stand before breathtaking 300 degree city views.
Queen’s House with topiary swirl trees, Royal Museums Greenwich
Originally designed as a ‘House of Delights’ for royals, the Queen’s House in Greenwich is home to a collection of exquisite art, not to mention an architectural masterpiece in its own right. There’s even a great programme of exhibitions, talks, concerts and performances, many of which are free.
Credit: Eleanor Church | Woodland Festival
Across the serene settings of Sydenham Hill Wood and Dulwich Wood, the Woodland Festival brings a free afternoon of guided walks, hands-on workshops, creative activities, live music and inspiring art. The festival is free to attend, family-friendly, and welcomes visitors of all ages – just be sure to book a space ahead for any workshops you wish to attend.
Every Sunday morning until September 13, Park Yoga will be running free outdoor sessions, where you can enjoy the mental and physical wellbeing effects of yoga in different gorgeous green settings. Head to either St James’s Park or Eltham Park South for the ultimate mindful start to your Sunday.
Lost Music Venues at the V&A explores the history of some of London’s music spaces that have since closed, bringing together photographs, posters, flyers, tickets and other archival material to document the role these venues played in the capital’s music and nightlife scenes.
© IWM Childhood in War at IWM London (31 July 2026 to 28
February 2027)
This free interactive exhibition will give you a glimpse of the unique ways children have experienced conflict, from 1914 to the present day. Immerse yourself in personal stories, immersive displays, and even a literary trail inspired by widely loved children’s books.
Discover Hyde Park from a whole new perspective with a boat ride on the tranquil lake. Being one of the only lakes that offer electric pedalos for hire, it’s the perfect place to truly relax and relish the beautiful surroundings, as they require a little less leg work than traditional pedalos, whilst maintaining all of the charm! And if you book ahead, you can save 20% on your pedalo or row boat booking – just use the code SOCIAL20 at the checkout to redeem a discount across bookings made between 3 August and 31 August 2026.
If you’re looking for a more laidback Sunday activity, Columbia Road Flower Market is a colourful and affordable way to spend a few hours – without having to spend much at all. Wander down the lively street, take in the bright blooms and enjoy the buzz of the market and surrounding East London streets – with plenty to see even if you’re not planning on buying anything.