Disclosure: Some links are sponsored. If you try a sponsored offer, such as a cashback site, we may earn a commission.
Last reviewed: by the Smart Savings Guides editorial team. How we research and update articles.
The UK has plenty of genuinely free things if you know where to look: national museums, library apps, free NHS services for some groups, and member birthday treats. Here's a practical list, with tips on how to check eligibility and avoid "free" offers that come with a catch.
Key takeaways
- Museums: many national museums, such as the British Museum and the Natural History Museum, have free general entry. Special exhibitions often charge.
- Libraries: many councils offer free e-books, audiobooks and magazines through apps such as Libby.
- Birthday freebies: some shops and restaurants give treats to members. Check the terms.
- Be wary of "free" offers that ask for card details or sign you up to subscriptions.
Museums
Many national museums, such as the British Museum and the Natural History Museum in London, have free general entry. Special exhibitions often charge, and some ask you to book a free timed ticket.
| Museum | Location | General entry |
|---|---|---|
| British Museum | London | Free |
| Natural History Museum | London | Free |
| Science Museum | London | Free |
| V&A | London | Free |
| National Gallery | London | Free |
| Tate Modern and Tate Britain | London | Free |
| National Museum of Scotland | Edinburgh | Free |
| National Museum Cardiff | Cardiff | Free |
Many regional museums and galleries are also free. Check each website for booking requirements and opening times.
Libraries
Libraries often lend e-books and audiobooks free through apps such as Libby, depending on your council. You'll need a library card, which is free for residents.
Step by step: get free e-books
- Join your local library online or in person.
- Download the app your library uses, such as Libby or BorrowBox.
- Add your library card.
- Borrow e-books, audiobooks or magazines. They return automatically when the loan ends.
Libraries may also offer free computer and internet access, events, and children's activities.
Birthday freebies
Some shops and restaurants offer birthday treats to members. Check the terms. You usually need to sign up for a loyalty scheme or app in advance, sometimes weeks before your birthday. Use an email alias to keep marketing emails out of your main inbox.
Free outdoor and cultural activities
- National parks, beaches and public footpaths are free to visit, though parking may cost.
- Heritage Open Days in England open many historic buildings for free each September. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland run similar events.
- Free walking tours run in many cities. Guides usually work for tips.
Free NHS and health services for some groups
Some NHS services are free for certain groups. For example, prescriptions are free in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, while in England many people qualify for free prescriptions, including under-16s, over-60s and those with certain medical conditions or on certain benefits. NHS sight tests are free for some groups too. Check the NHS website for current eligibility.
Watch out for "free" offers with a catch
- Free trials that turn into paid subscriptions. Set a reminder to cancel.
- "Free" products that charge high postage or sign you up to repeat deliveries.
- Competitions or surveys asking for bank details.
Free prints and other small perks
FreePrints offers up to 45 free 6x4 prints a month, though you pay delivery. See free photo prints in the UK.
Save on what you already pay
Free things are nice, but bigger savings often come from cutting regular bills. See how to switch energy and broadband and are cashback sites worth it?.
Free days out with children
Many museums run free family trails and holiday activities. Libraries host free story times and summer reading challenges. Local councils often list free events, parks and playgrounds on their websites.
Check before you go
Opening times, booking requirements and free entry policies can change. Always check the official website before travelling.
Free money tools and advice
Free, impartial money guidance is available from MoneyHelper, the government-backed service, which offers budgeting tools and guidance on pensions, debt and benefits. Citizens Advice also gives free advice on consumer rights, bills and debt. If you're struggling with bills, these services can help you find support you may not know you're entitled to.
Free entry with a paying adult
Many attractions let young children in free with a paying adult, and some offer free entry for carers accompanying disabled visitors. Always check the attraction's website for current policies and any proof required.
Free Wi-Fi and public spaces
Libraries, many cafes and some town centres offer free public Wi-Fi. Avoid logging in to banking or other sensitive accounts on open networks unless you use a trusted connection.
Frequently asked questions
Which museums are free in the UK?
Many national museums have free general entry, including the British Museum, Natural History Museum, Science Museum, V&A, National Gallery and Tate. Special exhibitions often charge.
Can I get free e-books from my library?
Yes, many UK libraries lend e-books and audiobooks free through apps such as Libby or BorrowBox. You need a free library card from your council.
How do I get birthday freebies in the UK?
Sign up for loyalty schemes or apps at shops and restaurants in advance. Each has its own terms, and some require signing up weeks before your birthday.
Are free trials really free?
Only if you cancel before the trial ends. Many turn into paid subscriptions automatically, so set a reminder.
Sources
Official sources this article relies on, checked October 15, 2026. Rules and prices change, so confirm details at the source.
Want the full guide? Read the main guide. There's also an optional printable bonus, which unlocks after you try a sponsored app or offer. Unlock the bonus (sponsored).