The words London, and expensive readily go together. After living in London, and visiting quite often, I can attest to the fact that the city is indeed quite pricey in comparison to other European counterparts. However, this does not mean that the cosmopolitan capital is inaccessible to those with a lower budget. Keep reading for my list of top money saving tips to enjoy London on a budget.
AFFORDABLE SIGHTSEEING
Free Walking Tours
Free walking tours are one of the best ways to see important landmarks, and learn more about the history of a city. The tours are free, but they do encourage a tip at the end. However, the tip is optional, and you decide how much you wish to pay the tour guide depending on your experience. Nowadays, free walking tours are readily available in most major cities. In London some of the most popular tour companies are SANDEMANs, and Free London Walking Tour. You can also opt for themed tours, such as, Harry Potter, street art, or historical walking tours.
The London Pass
If you are hoping to visit every tourist attraction and monument in London (believe me there are quite a few), then I would recommend buying the London pass before arriving. At a first glance the prices may not seem very budget friendly, but if you break down the cost of each individual attraction the savings are quite extensive! Entry to the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and Tower Bridge alone will set you back about 65 pounds, which is almost the price of a one day pass. With over 80 attractions included in the single price you surely get your moneys worth!
INEXPENSIVE CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
Free Museums
It may come as a surprise, but most of the famous museums in London are free to enter. Therefore, getting a dose of culture in London is quite easy on a budget. The famed British Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A), National Gallery, and Natural History Museum are just some of the museums you can visit free of charge. There are, nonetheless, limited exhibitions and galleries that require an entrance fee, but the majority of the museums are free to roam and explore.
Here are some of the museums you can visit for free:
–Victoria & Albert Museum: Architecture, fashion and design museum.
–National Gallery: One of the most famous European art museums in the city, featuring paintings from Monet, and Van Gogh.
–Tate Modern: British contemporary and modern art museum.
–British Museum: An expansive museum featuring exhibits on human history, art and culture. Many pieces date back to the British Empire.
–Natural History Museum: An interactive natural history and science museum.
Discounted Theatre Tickets
For those who wish to experience some of London’s art and theatre scene, head to the famous West End! Although tickets to musicals are not usually budget friendly, most shows offer rush, and lottery ticket deals. Some shows require you apply online, but others allow you to simply visit the box office first thing in the morning for discounted same day tickets. That’s how I was able to see a show for only 5 pounds! If classic theatre is more your style, then don’t miss out on a performance at Shakespeares Globe. Yard Seat tickets start at 5 pounds, but you have to stand throughout the entire performance.
BEST LONDON VIEWS
Sky Garden
Sky Garden is London’s highest public garden, and entrance is completely free of charge! You do, however, need to book your free tickets online prior to arriving. Once at the top you will find a beautiful garden, outdoor terrace and central bar for you to relax and take in the view.
The Shard
The Shard is Europe’s tallest building, and it provides visitors with breathtaking bird’s eye views of the city. However, entrance to the viewing deck on the 72nd floor will cost 25 pounds. Instead, head up to the rooftop bars, Gong on the 52nd floor, or Aqua Shard on the 31st floor for a drink and equally spectacular views.
LOW-COST TRANSPORTATION
Ride the Public Bus
London prides itself for its vast, and highly efficient public transportation. The city is quite large, and if you’re only visiting for a few days, it will be nearly impossible to see everything on foot. The London underground (or the Tube as the locals call it) is convenient to get around the immense city, but it can also get quite expensive. Despite the daily price caps, you can easily spend up to 4 pounds on a one way ticket during peak hours! A cheaper alternative is to take advantage of the public buses. The famous double decker buses have a lower fare than the underground. Plus you can ride on the top deck, and take in the sites along the way!
Extra Tip: Purchase an Oyster Card as opposed to paying for each ride with cash. A single ticket without an Oyster Card will cost 4.90, as opposed to 2.40 with the card! There is a 5 pound deposit for the physical card which you can collect when you deactivate it upon departure.
Rent a Bike
If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a Santander Cycles bike for the day. You can pick one up at any of the docking stations around the city, and there is no need to reserve in advanced. The bikes cost 2 pounds to access for 24 hours. Within that time frame you have unlimited 30 min journeys included.
BUDGET DINING
Food Markets
For some casual budget dining head to one of the many food markets around the city. Borough Market (Monday -Saturday), Camden Market (Sunday – Sunday), and Southbank street carts (Friday – Sunday) are just a few of your options. You’ll find a delicious variety of food, both local and ethnic. Best of all, some stalls sell dishes for as little as 5 pounds.
Picnic
Weather permitting, a picnic is the perfect way to save money in any city. All you need is some packed food, and an outdoor space. Pick up some snacks, sandwiches and drinks at a local grocery store, and make your way to one of London’s many green spaces. Luckily, London has a plethora of parks and gardens, so you have plenty of options! Some of my favorites are Regent’s Park, and Primrose Hill for stunning landscaping, and amazing views of the city.
ACCOMMODATION OUTSIDE THE CENTER
Accommodation in London can definitely get quite pricey, especially if you want to be in a centralized location. However, with the extensive transportation system, you can access almost any part of the city easily and quickly. Therefore, if you are trying to see London on a budget I recommend staying away from the central London boroughs near Westminster, the London Eye, and Buckingham Palace! Hostels are usually the most economical choice, but you can also try Airbnb’s and hotels in zones 2 and 3.
Whether you’re planning to visit London for 3 days or a week, there are many ways to save money during your visit. Even for those with lower funds it is definitely possible to see London on a budget, and take advantage of everything the city has to offer.
Safe Travels,
Vip <3
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