Free things to do on our network

One of the most iconic British traditions, performed by one of the five Foot Guards Regiments of the Household Division, identified by red coats & bearskin hats. This traditional ceremony is held at Buckingham Palace where the Old Guard (the soldiers currently on duty) are relieved by the New Guard often led by a marching band. The Changing of the guard ceremony is free and can be seen every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 10.45am.

Closest Station: Charing Cross

Located in South London, this sprawling park is a popular spot famous for its life size dinosaur statues. These prehistoric sculptures were actually unveiled during the Victorian era and have been a popular part of this London park ever since. This beautiful park which overlooks London with amazing views also features a maze, lakes, and a concert bowl! Many areas of the park are accessible to disabled visitors and it is a perfect spot for families and friends to enjoy a stroll or a picnic.

Closest Station: Penge East

Leake Street graffiti tunnel is one of London’s not-so-hidden gems. This is a 300 metre tunnel and the city’s largest legal graffiti wall. Opened in 2008, it has been seen some of the worlds greatest street artist provide artwork, including Bansky making it the home of Londons street art scene.

Closest Station: Waterloo East

Explore the stunning and protected landscapes that run through the heart of Kent and It couldn’t be easier to explore the Kent Downs by train with Southeastern. The Kent Downs is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Over 30 Southeastern stations are located on or near the North Downs Way in the Kent Downs AONB, making it one of the most accessible landscapes. Stretching from the white cliffs of Dover to the picturesque Kentish town of Otford, there’s so much to discover.

Experience a spiritual moment in Rochester Cathedral and visit a church that has been celebrating Christian worship since 604AD. The history and heritage of Rochester Cathedral is revealed in its stunning architecture. The walls hum with the prayer of a thousands of years.

Nearest station: Rochester

Margate’s Dreamland pleasure park is a classic vintage seaside amusement park that’s been stylised restored and retro-fitted to give it a new shine. It’s free to enter this iconic park, where you can choose to pay to ride any of the famous rides, slides or playgrounds. It’s even home to the UK’s oldest wooden rollercoaster. Dreamland and Margate feature in Sam Mendes film Empire of Light, starring Olivia Coleman and Colin Firth. Please check opening times before you visit.

Closest Station: Margate

A 4.5 mile circular walk taking in Battle Great Wood, Battle Abbey and the 1066 Battlefield, and Battle Museum. A generally easy walk through woodland giving you the chance to absorb the history and take in the stunning countryside.

Closest Station: Battle

The Creative quarter is based in the historic heart of Folkestone and comprises the old high street, a winding cobbled lane lined with independent shops, art studios and galleries, and Tontine Street a busy thoroughfare linking Folkestone Harbour with the centre of the town where you’ll fine the arts and entertainment venue Folkestone Quarterhouse, the towns cultural hub.

Closest Station: Folkestone Central

This 200 metre long beach is one of Kents most popular summer spots.. The golden sand makes it a perfect place to sit and relax while taking in the sun or reading a book or a blustery winter walk to blow away the cobwebs. Joss Bay is a favourite for surfers of all abilities and if you feel like getting out in the waves, Joss Bay also has a surf school.

Closest Station: Broadstairs

Enjoy 360 degrees of uninterrupted views across London from the city’s highest public garden. Sky Garden, at 20 Fenchurch Street in the City of London, spans over three storeys of landscaped gardens which include observation decks, an open air terrace, a brasserie, a restaurant and a cocktail pod. You can enjoy this high-up greenery and view for free but you must book in advance.

Nearest station: London Blackfriars

Head to beautiful Margate and you’ll find one of the UK’s leading art galleries. Located on the seafront and the same site where JMW turner stayed when visiting the town. This free gallery presents a rolling programme of temporary exhibitions and world class art.

Nearest station: Margate

This beautiful spot on the seaside is the perfect place for a stroll and to take in the sites. Hastings old town has a wonderful mix of independent shops and a variety of restaurants and cafes. A short walk from the station brings you to the narrow streets, alleyways and cobbled paths of the charming old town.

Closest Station: Hastings

This stunning Sikh temple situated in Gravesend is the largest in Europe and one of the biggest of its kind outside of India. Built and funded entirely by the local community, this building features 3 large prayer rooms and 2 langar halls. There is also a sports hall hosting activities including boxing, basketball and karate. The grounds are also used for outdoor sports including football and are where the Gravesend Guru Nanak Football Club plays. Over the weekend there are guided tours, a great way to take in all the temple has to offer.

Closest Station: Gravesend

With over 50 acres of parkland the park stands on the site of the old Maidstone Zoo and is part of the Cobtree Manor Estate. The revamped children’s playground is based on the park’s history as a zoo, with animal themed equipment that will keep children entertained for hours!

Closest Station: Maidstone East

One of the oldest skateparks in London, Stockwell Skate Park also known as “Brixton Bowls” was originally built in 1978. This popular spot has recently had a £500,000 makeover that has seen its worn-out and rough concrete surface made smoother than it has ever been before, as well as new modern skating features added. It is a perfect spot to test your skating skills.

Closest Station: Brixton