Free things to do in the evening in London

The best things in life are free – or so they say. However, if you live in a big city like London, Manchester or Birmingham, you’ll be more likely to find that nothing comes for free.

However, we’re seeking to disprove that with our list of brilliant things you can do in the capital after work, all without spending a penny. Whether you want to soak up culture, have a laugh or just unwind after a busy day in the office, take a look at our list of the top 10 free things to do in the evening in London.

1) Tate Modern – the ever-popular and stylish gallery holds a huge collection of British art from the last 100 years and on Fridays and Saturdays, it’s open until 10pm. Perfect for taking in some culture or if you’re after a first date with a difference. http://www.tate.org.uk/

2) London Friday Night Skate – every Friday from 8pm, London Friday Night Skate (LFNS) hosts a free street skating event departing from Wellington Arch at Hyde Park Corner. You’ll have to bring your own skates though and be sure to wear suitable clothing in case you take a tumble. http://www.lfns.co.uk/

3) Inner Space – looking to get away from the hustle and bustle that comes with living in a busy city? Meditation centre Inner Space in Covent Garden offers a drop-in Quiet Room where you can visit for free if you need a moment or two of quiet solitude. http://www.innerspace.org.uk/

4) V&A – with exhibitions on everything from fashion and jewellery to theatre and performing arts, the V&A is a great free day out. It can also be a great free evening out too, as it opens until 10pm on Fridays, though the tunnel entrance closes at 8pm. http://www.vam.ac.uk/

5) Comedy Café Theatre – catch one of the UK’s up-and-coming comics before they hit the big time at this Shoreditch venue. New Act Night is every Wednesday from 8pm and it’s free entry. http://www.comedycafetheatre.co.uk/

6) The Social – this popular city centre bar is a classic night out for Londoners and it hosts free club nights and gigs every week or so, meaning all you’ll have to pay for is your drinks. http://www.thesocial.com/events/

7) Ceremony of the Keys – be part of history and see the traditional locking up of the Tower of London that takes place every night. It’s free but you do have to apply for a ticket and be warned, it’s very popular so book well in advance. http://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/whats-on/ceremony-of-the-keys/

8) Science Museum – see how a steam engine works, find out how astronauts can live in space and generally get hands-on with science. On the last Wednesday of the month, the museum opens till 10 in its adults-only Lates event with very special and fun theme nights. http://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/

9) Watch a TV show recording – for TV buffs, a perfect night out is getting behind the scenes of your favourite shows. There are a handful of companies around that offer this but SRO Audiences has some of the most popular shows, including Alan Carr: Chatty Man and The Last Leg. http://www.sroaudiences.com/

10) MoreLondon – for free events including performances, workout classes and adult bouncy castles, More London on the south bank of the River Thames is just what you’re looking for. Events vary so make sure to check the calendar to find out what’s coming up. http://www.morelondon.com/