1. Visit the British Museum
The world-famous British Museum was founded in 1753 by an Act of Parliament, from the collections of Sir Hans Sloane. The museum is one of the greatest in the world, showcasing the works of man from prehistoric to modern times, with collections drawn from the whole world. Highlights include the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures and the mummies of Ancient Egypt. There is a programme of special exhibitions and daily gallery tours and talks. Entry is free but special exhibitions require tickets.
Great Russell St, City of London, WC1B 3DG (Russell Square underground)
www.britishmuseum.org
2. Enjoy a free lunchtime recital at the Royal Opera House (Mondays)
The popular series of free Monday lunchtime recitals continues. Members of the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Royal Opera Chorus and the Jette Parker Young Artists Programme present a range of song recitals and chamber music. There are several recitals each month. Be sure to call in advance.
Covent Garden, London, WC2E 9DD (Covent Garden underground)
www.roh.org.uk/recitals
3. Enjoy street theatre, food, music and window shopping at Covent Garden
Covent Garden’s central piazza has a thriving café culture and is buzzing with outlandish street entertainers and fun events all day, every day.
4. Take part in a free samba class at Guanabara
Head on down to Brazilian bar Guanabara where you’ll find free dance lessons most evenings. Dance styles include Brazilian favourites such as gafiera, samba and forró. Get down early for happy hour and free entry before 8pm.
Parker Street, WC2B 5PW (Holborn underground)
www.guanabara.co.uk
5. Visit the Museum of London
Step inside the Museum of London for an unforgettable journey through the capital’s turbulent past. Discover prehistoric London, see how the city changed under Romans and Saxons, wonder at medieval London and examine the tumultuous years when London was ravaged by civil wars, plague and fire. Then venture into the Galleries of Modern London where you can walk the streets of Victorian London, take a stroll in recreated pleasure gardens and marvel at the magnificent Lord Mayor’s Coach. Free entry.
150 London Wall, EC2Y 5HN (Barbican/St Paul’s underground)
www.museumoflondon.org.uk
