Last Updated on 12/03/2023
Leamington Spa is one of the most vibrant and beautiful towns in Warwickshire, England.
With its picturesque parks, historical monuments, and quaint shops. It’s no wonder why this town has been a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.
And if you’re looking to explore Leamington Spa on a budget then look no further!
Here is a list of seven free things to do in Leamington Spa. You are sure to have an unforgettable experience without spending any money.
From visiting Jephson Gardens and All Saints Church to admiring Queen Victoria Statue and the War Memorial. There are plenty of activities to enjoy without spending a penny!
So, if you’re ready to explore Leamington Spa – let’s get started!
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About Leamington Spa
Leamington Spa, also known as Royal Leamington Spa, is a historic spa town in Warwickshire.
It is located on the banks of the River Leam and is renowned for its hot springs. Baths were first built around the springs in 1784, and they drew in tourists from around the country.
The spa waters were rumoured to have restorative effects, curing an extensive list of ailments. These magical waters had no trouble drawing in visitors!
The town is steeped in history, with many buildings and monuments to explore. Including Jephson Gardens, Jephson Glasshouse, Royal Pump Rooms, and All Saints Church.
Plus, there are plenty of shops, cafés and restaurants to enjoy too.
Why Visit Leamington Spa
Leamington Spa is a great day trip destination for visitors to Warwickshire. It is just a short drive from nearby Warwick or Stratford-Upon-Avon.
With its hot springs, historic buildings and monuments, plus plenty of shops and cafés. It’s no wonder why this town has been a popular tourist spot for centuries!
Plus, many of the sights are free to visit – so you can explore Leamington Spa without spending any money.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out or an exciting adventure – there’s something in Leamington Spa that will make your visit unforgettable.
How To Get To Leamington Spa
Leamington Spa is located at the heart of England and can be easily accessed from the rest of the country.
By car: Leamington is situated five miles from junctions 13 and 14 of the M40. Four miles from the A46 and eleven miles from the M45.
The town is also easily accessible from the North via the M6 (J4a). Clear signage makes traveling to Royal Leamington Spa simple.
By train: Leamington Spa has its own train station just a short walk from the town centre. There are direct train links to Royal Leamington Spa from many neighbouring towns and cities such as:
- Coventry – 11 minutes
- Banbury – 17 minutes
- Birmingham International – 21 minutes
- Birmingham – 25 minutes
- London Marylebone – 1 hour and 15 minutes
By air: The closest airport to Leamington Spa is Birmingham Airport. This is around half an hour away via train.
Free Things to do in Leamington Spa
Here are the top free things to do in Leamington Spa for a visit on a budget. They’re all completely free to visit and you can see them all in a few hours.
This guide shares the seven best free things to do in Leamington Spa that are ideal for a budget trip.
Jephson Gardens
If there is only one thing you do on a visit to Leamington Spa, make sure you explore Jephson Gardens.
Jephson Gardens is a beautiful park located in the heart of Royal Leamington Spa.
Locals and visitors alike have enjoyed this stunning public space for centuries. It offers an incredible array of activities to explore on your visit.
The history of Jephson Gardens dates back to 1834 when the formal gardens were first laid out. They remain beautifully preserved to this day and have won numerous awards.
Today, the gardens remain open to visitors. They offer plenty of recreational opportunities such as walking trails, boating, bird watching, picnicking and more!
Within the gardens, you will find a fascinating collection of monuments, a beautiful lake and around 140 species of trees. You will also find an art studio, sensory garden, and cafe.
For those looking for something special while visiting Leamington Spa be sure to check out Jephson Gardens. You won’t regret it!
With its lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere this place will provide you with hours of entertainment without spending any money!
Location: Newbold Terrace, Leamington Spa CV32 4AA
Jephson Glasshouse
Jephson Glasshouse is an absolute must-see for any green thumb or gardening enthusiast.
This incredible greenhouse showcases a variety of exotic and tropical plants from around the world. All grown using traditional horticultural methods.
The Glasshouse prides itself on the fact that it doesn’t use any pesticides or herbicides. Instead, they use biological control to reduce pests and remove any weeds by hand.
The Glasshouse is located within Jephson Gardens and first opened in 2003. It was developed as part of the Heritage Lottery funded restoration of the gardens.
From bananas to pink powder puff, there is something to marvel at every corner here.
The glasshouse also features a goldfish pond, an observational beehive, and a slate sculpture.
Like the gardens, the Glasshouse is free to enter. Once you’ve enjoyed a stroll around the gardens, be sure to venture into the Glasshouse to take in the colourful display.
So don’t miss the opportunity to explore one of Leamington’s finest attractions. It will be an experience you won’t forget!
Location: Jephson Gardens, Newbold Terrace, Leamington Spa CV32 4AA
Royal Pump Rooms
The Royal Pump Rooms is a stunning Grade II listed building with an intriguing history.
Opened in 1814, it was originally designed as a public bath house and spa resort for the wealthy inhabitants of Leamington to enjoy.
Today, the building has been restored to its former glory and serves as a museum, art gallery, and library – all free to enter!
The venue hosts a number of exhibitions and events throughout the year so you can see something different on every visit.
As you explore the beautifully preserved interior of this grand Georgian building, you can discover its fascinating past or browse the selection of print, homewares, and gifts in the shop.
The Royal Pump Rooms are definitely worth visiting next time you’re in Leamington Spa!
Location: Leamington Library Royal Pump Rooms Parade, Parade, Leamington Spa CV32 4AA
All Saints Church
All Saints Church in Royal Leamington Spa is a beautiful Grade II listed building and an important part of the town’s history.
Built in the Gothic style in the 19th century, it was originally designed as a place of worship for local residents. It has since become one of the most recognizable landmarks in Leamington Spa.
The church continues to serve its community today, hosting regular services, concerts, and other events throughout the year – all free to attend!
It also prides itself on its welcoming community, encouraging visitors from all walks of life to take part in their services.
With its stunning architecture, fascinating history and vibrant atmosphere all around, All Saints Church is well worth visiting on your next trip to Leamington Spa.
Location: Priory Terrace, Leamington Spa CV31 1AA
Queen Victoria Statue
The Queen Victoria Statue in Leamington Spa is a must-see for any visitor to the city. This impressive statue was erected in 1902 and has been an iconic landmark of the town ever since.
The statue stands proudly at the junction of Regent Grove and Parade.
The front of the plinth is inscribed with a quote from Tennyson. It reads, ‘Victoria Queen Empress 1837-1901 She wrought her people lasting good.’
Interestingly, a later plaque was added on the side of the pedestal. It comments that ‘A German bomb moved this statue one inch on its plinth on the 14th November 1940’.
The statue is located on the street so you can walk right up to it to admire it at no cost.
If you visit during the Christmas festivities, you can see Victoria standing next to the town’s large Christmas tree.
Location: 3 Regent Grove, Leamington Spa CV32 5AA
War Memorial
The Leamington Spa War Memorial is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the local community during times of war.
It serves as a powerful tribute to those who gave their lives for their country and should be respected and remembered by all visitors to this historic town.
Set back from the main Parade in a peaceful green space, this understated monument features a soldier with his head bowed in remembrance. The memorial was made by English sculptor Albert Toft.
As you approach the memorial, take time to pause and reflect on its significance, honouring those whose courage will never be forgotten.
It stands as an enduring symbol of bravery and selflessness that should inspire us all.
Location: In gardens facing The Parade, Euston Place, Leamington Spa, CV32 4AE
Chesterton Windmill
Standing tall and proud a short drive from Leamington Spa, Chesterton Windmill is a stunning reminder of this town’s past.
Built around 1632, it was originally used to grind grain for local people until it fell into disuse in the early 20th century.
Today, this Grade II listed building stands as an important part of the town’s history and heritage – one that should be admired by all visitors to Leamington Spa.
With its classic brickwork and iconic sails, Chesterton Windmill is a sight not to be missed!
The windmill has been lovingly restored over recent years, preserving its original features.
Today, Chesterton Windmill is one of the most famous landmarks in Warwickshire so don’t miss the chance to catch a glimpse of it on your visit!
Location: Windmill Hill Lane, Leamington Spa, CV33 9LB
Where To Stay In Leamington Spa
If you would like to extend your stay in the Warwickshire area, Leamington Spa is a great place to stay. Here are some convenient accommodation options in the town for your visit.
The Angel Hotel
The Angel Hotel is a beautiful Grade II listed building located in the centre of Leamington Spa.
It offers a range of accommodation options suitable for both leisure and business travellers, all with modern amenities and stunning period features.
Guests staying here can take advantage of the onsite Counting House restaurant or traditional hotel bar.
Victoria Park Lodge
Victoria Park Lodge is the perfect place to stay when visiting Leamington Spa.
Located just minutes from the town centre, this charming hotel boasts modern amenities and stylish decor that will make you feel right at home.
Plus, Victoria Park Lodge has a range of room types to choose from including family rooms, single, double and twin rooms, plus serviced apartment options.
Marvel Apartments
Marvel Apartments are a great place to stay when visiting Leamington Spa for trips of any durations.
Located just a short walk from the town centre, these modern, stylish apartments offer guests all the comforts of home with up-to-date amenities and luxurious furnishings.
All apartments come with fully equipped kitchens for those wishing to cook as well as spacious living areas, making them perfect for both short and long stays.
Nailcote Hall Hotel
Nailcote Hall Hotel is the perfect place for a luxurious break when visiting Leamington Spa.
Located in the charming village of Berkswell, this historic 4-star hotel offers all the comforts and amenities you could wish for on your trip to Warwickshire.
From its fantastic fitness and recreation facilities, stunning 17th century country house architecture and glorious views over rolling countryside, to its top-class spa facilities and fine dining options, Nailcote Hall Hotel provides an unrivalled level of luxury that will make your stay truly unforgettable.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or simply want to unwind in style after exploring nearby attractions like Warwick Castle or Kenilworth Castle, Nailcote Hall Hotel is sure to exceed all expectations.
Other places to stay in Leamington Spa
Still not found your perfect Leamington Spa hotel? Don’t worry! Here’s a map of the best hotels in Leamington Spa so you can find the perfect fit for your location and budget.
Booking.comThings To Do Near Leamington Spa
If you have some extra time discover even more of the local area. Why not include day trips to the following towns on your visit:
- Stratford-Upon-Avon: visit the birthplace of the world’s most famous bard. Explore what William Shakespeare’s life was like in his hometown. Read this guide to visiting Shakespeare’s Stratford-Upon-Avon.
- Warwick: this fascinating town has 15 centuries of history to explore. Witness its story through attractions like its Warwick Castle. Plus, historic buildings show how it developed into the town it is today. Read this guide to the top things to do in Warwick.
- Cotswolds: see the pretty villages of the Cotswolds first-hand and fall in love with the quintessential English countryside. Read this guide to discover the 7 prettiest villages in the Cotswolds!
Is Leamington Spa Worth Visiting?
Leamington Spa is an ideal destination for a relaxing budget getaway in Warwickshire.
This town is often overlooked in favour of the more popular Stratford-Upon-Avon or Warwick. However, with stunning Georgian architecture, many beautiful sights and a much less ‘touristy’ feel, Royal Leamington Spa is definitely worth visiting!
From its stunning Jephson Gardens to the historic Royal Pump Rooms and Queen Victoria Statue, there’s plenty of culture and beauty to explore right here in town.
Plus, with day trips to nearby Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warwick or the Cotswolds also on offer, you can make your visit as long or short as you like!
With so much to see and do in Leamington Spa itself it’s definitely worth visiting this charming Warwickshire town. So why not plan your trip today? You won’t regret it!
Free things to do in Leamington Spa
So, if you were looking for the best free things to do in Leamington Spa on your next visit, here are all the top sights you don’t want to miss!
Which ones are on your list to visit? Let me know in the comments!
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Hello, I’m Hannah! I’m a writer and photographer who loves experiencing the wonders of Yorkshire. My guides will help you escape from your daily routine by showing you that you don’t have to go far to find an adventure.
I wish I’d read this a month ago when I went to Leamington Spa to get to Stratford! The gardens look amazing
Oh no! At least you have an excuse to go back! Warwickshire has so much to offer! We were only visiting Leamington Spa in passing around a trip to Stratford but we were pleasantly surprised by the town and everything it had to offer. We hope you get an opportunity to go back!
What a beautiful place! I love architecture so this would be right up my alley!
The architecture is lovely, it’s a beautiful town to walk around.
I was in this general area of the U.K. years ago but missed this town. I love the regency architecture. A stroll around the Jephson gardens would be top on my list of things to do here.
What a shame! We hope you get the opportunity to go back one day. It’s a beautiful town to stroll around.
The garden seems dreamy! great tips for someone on a budget
The garden is really lovely. It is definitely the ideal place for a budget day trip. It’s amazing that you can see all of the sites for free!
What a lovely place to spend the day! The architecture is so pretty.
It is a lovely town and the architecture is breathtaking!
If you are willing to walk a bit further there are further gardens to visit. From the Pump Room Gardens cross the bridge over the river and turn right. Follow the path by the river and go through the underpass. This will take you into Victoria Park with its bowling greens and large park. The bowling greens are where the Commonwealth Games bowls competitions will take place in 2022.
The church facing the Pump Room Gardens (as in your photograph at the start of this article) is St. Peter’s Catholic church and is well worth a visit.
The parks and gardens host several free festivals in the Spring and Summer such as the Ecofest in the Pump Room Gardens on Sunday 31st of May 2020 and Art in the Park on Saturday 1st to Sunday 2nd August 2020 in the Jephson Gardens .
To see more of Leamington’s lovely regency architecture see Clarendon Square where the future Napoleon III stayed in a house on the south side in 1838-1839. (Look for the blue plaque marking the house) A somewhat hidden gem is Lansdowne Circus made up of paired regency houses around a circular garden. The American author Nathaniel Hawthorne (who wrote the Scarlet Letter) stayed here (see the blue plaque on the house) in 1857. Nearby is Lansdowne Crescent another nice example of the the regency architecture.
These are some fantastic tips, thanks for sharing them! We’ll be sure to check them out on our next visit to the area!
What a beautiful place! I would have so much fun taking photos of all of the buildings. Lovely architecture! I’ve been to Warwick and Stratford-upon-Avon; next time I’m in that area I’ll have to check this place out too!
It is a beautiful town! I think it is often overlooked in favour of Stratford-Upon-Avon or Warwick but the architecture and the parks are beautiful. It is well worth a visit!
This looks like such a nice day trip. I would love to see the Glasshouse with tropical plants! I love escaping the outdoors but still being surrounded by plants!
The glasshouse is beautiful! It was definitely a blast of tropical climes on a cold December day! I’d love to go back throughout the year to see the flowers in bloom and their local resident bees in the summer months!
The Jephson Glasshouse looks so pretty!
It was a beautiful place! And the warmth was welcome on a cold December day!
This is amazing! would never have thought to visit here but so many things to do! thanks for the post
I’m glad you like the guide! There are so many amazing places to visit around Warwickshire and I think Leamington Spa is often overlooked but it is a beautiful place! I hope you get an opportunity to visit!
Wow! I love amazing places like this and I’m always looking for somewhere new to explore. I can’t wait to visit now!
Leamington Spa is definitely a lovely place and well worth exploring. I hope you get an opportunity to visit soon!
I will definitely have to look into stopping here in the next few weeks, as we’re planning a road trip around this area! It looks like an ideal historic town for me to explore.
What a wonderful area for a road trip! Leamington Spa is well worth stopping at. I hope you have a wonderful trip!
So many things to do and I love that most are free! I have never heard of Leamington Spa but definitely looks like a great place to visit.
Leamington Spa is definitely a wonderful place for a day trip. I was amazed at how much you could see for free!
What a great itinerary for such a beautiful architectural location!
I’m so glad you like the itinerary! It is a great place to spend a day admiring the beautiful sights and architecture!
I like the fact that there is something for everyone in this quaint town. I would love to visit the Royal Pump rooms and the greenhouse!
There is definitely a lot to see and plenty for everyone! The Royal Pump Rooms are impressive! I’d like to spend more time discovering the spa history and admiring the architecture on my next visit!
Love how concise and clearly laid out this is!
Thanks Kaitlyn! I’m so glad you found the guide helpful!
What a beautiful place! The next time I am in the area I will definitely check it out. I’d have to say the Jephson Gardens look absolutely stunning…this is will be sure the first place I stop. 🙂
I strongly recommend Jephson Gardens, it was beautiful! I’d love to go back and visit during the summer. I bet it is a popular spot on busy days!
Jephson Gardens look amazing, especially the glass house. It’s also great they don’t use any pesticides! 🙂 Hopefully, it will get easier soon to visit England from Belgium!
The gardens were beautiful and the glass house was incredible! It was lovely to see many vibrant flowers in bloom, especially in the middle of winter! Hopefully travel will get easier soon so you are able to visit!
Wow, I’ve never heard of a spa town before. Good to know that it’s possible to visit on a budget.
Ah we have quite a few spa towns in the UK! Historically, they were popular resorts due to their spa waters that supposedly had healing powers. I find that spa towns have such interesting histories. It is impressive that you can enjoy so much of Leamington Spa for free! I hope you get an opportunity to visit!
Looks like a beautiful place to visit. I would love to see Jephson Gardens and the glasshouse with tropical plants. The war memorial and the church also make it a more interesting place. 🙂
Jephson Gardens and the glass house were definitely my favourite spots! It was beautiful in December, but I’d really love to go back and see it in the summer! There is so much fascinating history in Leamington Spa, I’d like to return and learn more about it. I hope you get an opportunity to visit!
This looks so fulfilling for just a day’s worth of activities! I can’t believe all of them don’t cost anything!
It’s amazing that you can see them all for free, isn’t it? We had a wonderful day out and only just scratched the surface of Leamington Spa. I’d love to go back and take more of it in!
I’d love to see the gardens and glasshouse at Leamington Spa! Knowing me I’d also stop at the cafe 🙂 The fact that it’s less touristy is a big plus!
The glass house and gardens were my favourite spot. I’d love to go back and visit them in summer. You can never go wrong with a cafe! Cake and hot chocolate is my favourite kind of lunch when we’re travelling!
I was so close to Leamington! I lived in Manchester for a year during which time I visited Warwick castle and Stratford-upon-Avon! Leamington Spa looks like a gem I missed on my trip. Would have loved to see the glass house and gardens.
What a shame you missed Leamington Spa but what a great excuse to head back for a visit! There’s so much to see in the UK, it’s hard to choose what to see when you’re here! The glass house and gardens are beautiful. I hope you get an opportunity to return and visit them one day!
What perfect timing! We are planning our post Covid spring trip to London so this will be a great add on to our itinerary. The pump room and all the historical buildings look like they would be so fun to explore first hand.
I’m so glad you stumbled upon the post Sophia! I hope you’re able to add a trip to Leamington Spa to your itinerary, it’s a lovely place! Have a wonderful trip!
Wow, I would love to visit this spot! I’ve never heard of it before. Thanks for putting it on my radar!
Thanks for reading Brittany. I’m glad I’ve put Leamington Spa on your radar, I hope you get an opportunity to visit soon!
Such a beautiful place! Your pictures are great.
Thanks so much! It really is a beautiful place worth exploring!
I’ve past this place on the train so many times and I’ve always wanted to go! This has been my push!
Ooh I hope you get a chance to hop of the train and explore next time you are passing by, it is a beautiful place!
It looks like the architecture alone makes Leamington Spa worth visiting. I love places that make me feel like I’ve walked through a time tunnel to a different era. Thanks for this travel inspiration!
Leamington Spa has some incredible architecture! In fact, there is a lot more that we didn’t visit when we were there. It’s definitely worth a visit. Thanks for reading!
I’ve heard about Leamington Spa but never been there. I love a good budget trip so it’s great that you can visit so many attractions for free. Jephson Glasshouse looks amazing!
I think Leamington Spa is often overlooked for Warwick and Stratford-Upon-Avon but it is a beautiful place and well worth a visit! I love Jephson Glasshouse – especially on a cold December day!
Happy and free are a nice combination, and the fact Leamington Spa is easily accessible by public transportation makes it an attractive destination. It sounds fascinating; the gardens and glasshouses would be my first stop.
I was really amazed by how many beautiful things you could see in Leamington Spa, all for free! It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area. The gardens were beautiful, I’d love to go back and see them in summer. And the glasshouse was like a tropical paradise! Thanks for reading!
A great guide for someone traveling on a budget.
Thanks, I’m so glad you like the guide!
This is such a beautiful historic town to visit. I love the architecture of the buildings – especially the church and pump rooms!
Leamington Spa does have some incredible architecture. I would love to go back and find some more of the architecture to admire. They have many more pretty buildings I didn’t have an opportunity to visit!
Great guide! Love the architecture and the glasshouse with the plants are beautiful. Reminds me a bit of the glasshouse in Kew Gardens. Would love to explore this area.
Aah I’ve STILL not made it to Kew Gardens! I really want to get there! Leamington Spa is well worth a visit, it is a lovely place!
Such a beautiful place to unwind – and to do it on a budget, even better! The garden there is so gorgeous – I may spend half my time exploring that!
Leamington Spa is definitely a beautiful place and the gardens were so relaxing! We definitely spent more time in the gardens than anywhere else! I could have stayed there a lot longer too, it was so stunning!
Jephson Gardens is beautiful, I love how they promote local artists with mini galleries.
I loved Jephson Gardens, they were absolutely beautiful, even in December!
I used to visit Stratford a lot when I was a kid and I’m sure I’ve been to Leamington Spa but I don’t remember anything about it, which seems a bit of a shame! I really want to go back to Stratford at some point so I’ll have to swing through here as well. 🙂
I think Leamington Spa is sadly overshadowed by Stratford and Warwick but it is such a lovely place and well worth a visit! We just stopped by for the day on the way home and we were pleasantly surprised! I hope you get an opportunity to visit Leamington Spa soon!