Top 6 Free Activities in London This Weekend: Jazz, Art, and More
As the weather warms up, Londoners are eager to embrace spring, but there's no need to overspend. The capital is brimming with free events and activities that promise excitement without draining your wallet. From cultural festivals to art shows and delicious treats, this weekend offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy London on a budget. Here are the six best free things to do from March 13 to 15, 2026.
1. Celebrate St Patrick's Day with a Festive Parade and Music
London's Irish community is gearing up for a massive St Patrick's Day festival in central London, expected to draw over 50,000 attendees. The festivities kick off at Hyde Park Corner with an 11am parade featuring elaborate floats and pageantry, culminating at Trafalgar Square. There, stages will host a mix of traditional and modern Irish music and performances. Food and drink stalls, kids' activities, and nearby pubs will keep the fun going until 6pm. It's a vibrant celebration of culture that's completely free to join.
2. Grab a Free Fish Finger Wrap at Leon's Seaside Pop-Up
After facing challenges, healthy fast food chain Leon is making a comeback with a special pop-up event. The Regent Street branch will transform into the 'Leon Chippy' this weekend, offering free fish finger wraps to the first 100 customers each day from noon to 8pm on Saturday and Sunday. Each wrap includes sustainable cod, rocket, tartare sauce, and a healthy wrap, plus a free cup of tea or pint. Additional treats like waffle fries, crushed peas, pin badges, and scratchcards for prizes, including a year's worth of Leon, add to the seaside-themed experience.
3. Explore London's Landmarks with National Lottery Open Week
Many of London's iconic historic sites, such as Tate Modern, Tower of London, and Kensington Palace, have benefited from National Lottery funding. To celebrate, numerous venues are offering free or heavily discounted entry during the final days of National Lottery Open Week until March 14. This is a perfect chance to visit top attractions and enjoy being a tourist in your own city without the usual costs.
4. Dive into Interactive Jazz Sessions at Southbank Centre
Jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike can enjoy free events as part of the collaboration between Switzerland's Montreux Jazz Festival and London's Southbank Centre. On Saturday, The Five Points Project hosts an open jam session in the Clore Ballroom, where instrumentalists, singers, and rappers create new sounds. On Sunday, the Hidden Tracks workshop guides participants in writing their own pieces inspired by music. These sessions celebrate the legacy of trumpeter Miles Davis and offer a creative outlet for all.
5. Admire David Hockney's Lunar-Inspired Art at Serpentine
David Hockney, a towering figure in contemporary art, is featured in a new free exhibition at Serpentine North. Highlights include the Moon Room, with digital paintings of the night sky on midnight blue walls, and A Year in Normandy, a ninety-metre-long frieze depicting seasonal changes at his studio. This exhibition runs until August 23, 2026, and serves as a precursor to the Bayeux Tapestry's arrival at the British Museum later in the year.
6. Browse Spring Markets for Affordable Treasures
East London hosts several artisanal markets this weekend, offering free entry and unique finds. The Go East Vintage Flea Market in Shoreditch's Strongroom Bar features secondhand records and fashion, while Wanstead Maker's Market showcases 50 local artists' crafts. At Hackney Depot, the Go East Ceramics Market includes free pottery workshops and demos, inspiring visitors to create their own items instead of buying. These markets provide a budget-friendly way to enjoy spring shopping and creativity.
With these free activities, Londoners can make the most of the weekend without financial strain. Whether you're into music, art, food, or festivals, there's something for everyone to enjoy in the capital.
