In recent years there have been many criticisms of London and how expensive it is to visit, and to live, there. When discussing weekend breaks, people are often directed away from the capital city and towards other cities in the UK and even abroad.
However, there is just something about the buzz of London which just isn’t replicated anywhere else. As one of the most culturally diverse and vibrant cities in the world, there is an atmosphere here which just simply cannot be beaten.
If you are looking to book a trip away and are working to a tight or restricted budget, then you might think to look elsewhere. However, it is entirely possible to visit the city of London without it costing you an arm and a leg. This is especially true if you stay away from the more touristy areas of the city and instead, take advantage of some of the hidden gems which London has to offer.
Here are our top tips for how to have an exciting and interesting trip to London, which doesn’t cost the earth:-
Transport
Getting around London doesn’t need to be expensive, especially if you are willing to make good use of the public transport available. Depending on the length of your stay you could buy a weekly Travelcard (although you will need a passport photo) or make use of one of the prepaid Oyster cards. Ahead of your trip, it might be worth taking a quick look at which zones you are most likely to visit as there is no point paying for a card which covers zones 1-6 if you are never going to leave zone 1.
Better yet, arm yourself with a good street map, or a helpful app on your phone, and take to the streets. Walking around London is fairly easy as many of the more popular attractions are well signposted and not only is it good exercise and free but it will also offer you the chance to really take in the atmosphere of the city, as well as appreciating the architecture and landmarks which you might otherwise miss being underground or passing by on a bus.
If you want to visit many of the major attractions in the city, then consider an open bus tour. These are usually good value for money, offer you discounts on entrance fees to many of the attractions, and you can get on and off as many times as you like throughout the day.
Accommodation
London accommodation comes in all shapes and sizes and for all budgets from the basic hostel to the 5 star hotel. Work out your budget per night before you begin looking into hotels and try to stick to it; there are many good value hotels which offer a clean and comfortable place to rest your head at night and recharge your batteries ready for another day of exploration.
Make use of third party websites which will offer you comparisons on London accommodation within your budget range but before you book anything, don’t forget to check the hotel’s official website. Many run special offers which can only be obtained by booking directly with them, and will either save you money which you can use on other elements of your trip, or will allow you to book a hotel slightly better than those you were looking at initially.
Shopping
London is incredibly well known for its market culture and if you are looking to indulge in some fashion but don’t have the cash to splash, then make sure you head down to the market to get your fix. Although London has some stunning shopping districts, you really need to have spare money to spend here whereas the markets provide a much more affordable alternative. Camden Market and Portobello Road Market are the perfect places to head at the weekends if you are looking for clothing, jewellery or antiques; although be prepared to rummage if the day is busy.
Food & Drink
As with London accommodation, there are a variety of restaurants, bars and cafes which serve a range of budgets. From street vendors to Michelin-stars, you will find it all in London and with a diverse selection of cuisine to boot. However, for those who are truly watching the pennies and for those who want to fit in with the locals; stock up at a supermarket and head to one of the popular picnic spots which the city is renowned for. Regent’s Park, St James Park, Richmond Park and Primrose Hill are all popular choices.
Attractions & Events
Most of the major museums and art galleries in the city are free to enter such as the Natural History Museum and the National Gallery and there are also a number of free events which regularly take place. If you have an interest in classical music, then the churches of London are the place to go; many offer free lunchtime concerts with requests for just a small donation afterwards.
Alternatively, you could invest in the London Pass which, for around £50 will grant you free entrance into over 60 of London’s attractions including the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, London Zoo and Kew Gardens.
Theatre
If you want to visit the West End to take in a show during your visit, then the best deals to be found are usually online in advance of your trip. However, for last minute decisions or for shows during the day, head to the TKTS booth located in Leicester Square which is well known for offering discount tickets for on the day performances.
In recent years there have been many criticisms of London and how expensive it is to visit, and to live, there. When discussing weekend breaks, people are often directed away from the capital city and towards other cities in the UK and even abroad.
However, there is just something about the buzz of London which just isn’t replicated anywhere else. As one of the most culturally diverse and vibrant cities in the world, there is an atmosphere here which just simply cannot be beaten.
If you are looking to book a trip away and are working to a tight or restricted budget, then you might think to look elsewhere. However, it is entirely possible to visit the city of London without it costing you an arm and a leg. This is especially true if you stay away from the more touristy areas of the city and instead, take advantage of some of the hidden gems which London has to offer.
Here are our top tips for how to have an exciting and interesting trip to London, which doesn’t cost the earth:-
Transport
Getting around London doesn’t need to be expensive, especially if you are willing to make good use of the public transport available. Depending on the length of your stay you could buy a weekly Travelcard (although you will need a passport photo) or make use of one of the prepaid Oyster cards. Ahead of your trip, it might be worth taking a quick look at which zones you are most likely to visit as there is no point paying for a card which covers zones 1-6 if you are never going to leave zone 1.
Better yet, arm yourself with a good street map, or a helpful app on your phone, and take to the streets. Walking around London is fairly easy as many of the more popular attractions are well signposted and not only is it good exercise and free but it will also offer you the chance to really take in the atmosphere of the city, as well as appreciating the architecture and landmarks which you might otherwise miss being underground or passing by on a bus.
If you want to visit many of the major attractions in the city, then consider an open bus tour. These are usually good value for money, offer you discounts on entrance fees to many of the attractions, and you can get on and off as many times as you like throughout the day.
Accommodation
London accommodation comes in all shapes and sizes and for all budgets from the basic hostel to the 5 star hotel. Work out your budget per night before you begin looking into hotels and try to stick to it; there are many good value hotels which offer a clean and comfortable place to rest your head at night and recharge your batteries ready for another day of exploration.
Make use of third party websites which will offer you comparisons on London accommodation within your budget range but before you book anything, don’t forget to check the hotel’s official website. Many run special offers which can only be obtained by booking directly with them, and will either save you money which you can use on other elements of your trip, or will allow you to book a hotel slightly better than those you were looking at initially.
Shopping
London is incredibly well known for its market culture and if you are looking to indulge in some fashion but don’t have the cash to splash, then make sure you head down to the market to get your fix. Although London has some stunning shopping districts, you really need to have spare money to spend here whereas the markets provide a much more affordable alternative. Camden Market and Portobello Road Market are the perfect places to head at the weekends if you are looking for clothing, jewellery or antiques; although be prepared to rummage if the day is busy.
Food & Drink
As with London accommodation, there are a variety of restaurants, bars and cafes which serve a range of budgets. From street vendors to Michelin-stars, you will find it all in London and with a diverse selection of cuisine to boot. However, for those who are truly watching the pennies and for those who want to fit in with the locals; stock up at a supermarket and head to one of the popular picnic spots which the city is renowned for. Regent’s Park, St James Park, Richmond Park and Primrose Hill are all popular choices.
Attractions & Events
Most of the major museums and art galleries in the city are free to enter such as the Natural History Museum and the National Gallery and there are also a number of free events which regularly take place. If you have an interest in classical music, then the churches of London are the place to go; many offer free lunchtime concerts with requests for just a small donation afterwards.
Alternatively, you could invest in the London Pass which, for around £50 will grant you free entrance into over 60 of London’s attractions including the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, London Zoo and Kew Gardens.
Theatre
If you want to visit the West End to take in a show during your visit, then the best deals to be found are usually online in advance of your trip. However, for last minute decisions or for shows during the day, head to the TKTS booth located in Leicester Square which is well known for offering discount tickets for on the day performances.
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